Co-op City Times 10/19/2024 by Co-op City Times

October Open Board Meeting Held in Section 5

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

The Riverbay Board of Directors’ Open Board meeting held in Einstein Center’s Room 45 on Wednesday, October 16, included a Gallery Session before the Board voted on several resolutions.

The meeting was called to order by Board President Rod Saunders, who started with his President’s Report in which he announced that the Board is still discussing the Riverbay Fund and assured shareholders that the Board is not looking to do away with the Riverbay Fund.

“We’ve heard some issues about the Riverbay Fund and that is going to come to a conclusion,” said Board President Saunders. “That is not a public ﬁght, that is a ﬁght between two entities who will get it done, we’ll get it squared away, because the most important thing is that the Riverbay Fund has to exist. So, this is not about the nonexistence of the Riverbay Fund, this is about how the funds and where the funds come from and where it goes to and how funds are collected. This is what it’s about.”

Board President Saunders also encouraged shareholders to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming elections. “We’re a voting community of more than 30,000 registered votes, and yet we haven’t had a primary where we’ve had more than 5,000 shareholders show up,” he said. “So, in the words of a group that was very active here in the Riverbay Board of Directors elections, I think all cooperators in this year’s elections need to “Show Up and Show Out.”

After the President’s Report, Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton presented a summary of his Management Report and provided updates to the community about the ongoing progress for stafﬁng the Public Safety Department, the Power Plant’s heat change-over, post-earthquake assessments, shareholder orientation, and the two-year budget planning.

(Continued on page 2)

Shareholders Discuss Riverbay Fund, Subletting, Personal Responsibility & More at Oct. 16th Gallery

Session

BY ROZAAN BOONE

The October 16th Open Board meeting held in Einstein Center attracted a sizable crowd of shareholders who raised a number of issues with the Riverbay Board of Directors, the Legal department and Management.

Opening the meeting, Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders said that he was encouraged by the turnout in Section Five.

The ﬁrst shareholder to address the Board, Reginald Mabry, criticized Board President Saunders’ “leadership and management style.” He expressed displeasure that all speakers who had signed up at the September 25th Gallery Session were not given the opportunity to speak before the Gallery Session was ended and the Board moved on to the business portion of the meeting. He also took issue with a statement Board President Saunders made at the last Gallery Session and questioned whether the Board President’s chairmanship of the Legislative

(Continued on page 9)

New Yorkers Invited to Attend MTA Open House on 2025-2029 Capital Plan

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

New Yorkers are invited to attend an MTA open house on October 21 to learn and provide feedback on the 2025-2029 MTA Capital Plan.

Monday’s open house will run from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. inside of Grand Central’s Vanderbilt Hall. For individuals unfamiliar with the 2025-2029 MTA Capital Plan, the event will feature informational handouts, posters and videos explaining key aspects of the plan. Participants will also have the chance to engage with MTA representatives about career opportunities with the MTA, as well as business opportunities for “Minority-, Women-, Disadvantaged- and Service-Disabled Veteran-owned ﬁrms,” as explained by the MTA.

The $68.4 billion 2025-2029 MTA Capital Plan invests in various aspects of the MTA system from critical infrastructure upgrades to purchasing new buses and trains. Roughly 90% of the total $68.4 billion will go toward repairing and rebuilding the MTA’s infrastructure. With the MTA Board approving the Capital Plan on September 25, the Capital Program Review Board will ultimately review the plan and provide ﬁnal approval.

MTA ofﬁcials have not yet released the schedule, but the agency said it plans on having additional open houses “in the operating region throughout the end of the year.”

When developing the 2025-2029

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On behalf of Douglas Elliman Property Management – Managing Agent, I am delighted to present the Management Report for Riverbay Corporation for the period ending September 30, 2024. This Management report provides updates with the following items:

• Stafﬁng – Public Safety Department

• Heat/Change-Over

• Post Earthquake Assessments

• Shareholder Orientation

• 2-year Budget Planning

Convector initiatives

(Continued on page 11)

Court Throws Out Legionella Case Against Riverbay

Judge Finds No Factual or Legal Basis for Claim

On October 11, 2024, Bronx Supreme Court Justice Bianka Perez dismissed a lawsuit brought against Riverbay by Dorothy Parker, a resident of Building 21. Although the Plaintiff had been diagnosed with legionella, the Court dismissed her case, ﬁnding that Ms. Parker failed to establish that she was exposed to, or contracted legionella, at Riverbay, or that Riverbay was negligent.

According to the decision, water samples taken after Riverbay installed a state-of-the-art water treatment system known as copper-silver ionization “demonstrated that Legionella growth was being controlled.” In dismissing Ms. Parker’s case, the Court also relied upon the expert testimony of Dr. J. Kavid Krause, a toxicologist retained by Riverbay, who concluded “that Riverbay was not responsible for plaintiff’s illness,” as well as detailed testimony by Riverbay regarding the procedures and safeguards in place to protect residents. The Court further noted that Plaintiff’s opposition, including the opinion of her own expert was “conclusory and devoid of analysis or reference to scientiﬁc data.”

Riverbay General Counsel Jeffrey D. Buss praised the Court’s determination that Riverbay was not liable for Plaintiff’s illness.

“The Court determined as a matter of law that Riverbay was not negligent,” said Mr. Buss. “The Corporation’s decision to install and maintain a state-of-the art water treatment system to provide additional protection to its residents above

(Continued on page 8)

Early Voting Begins Saturday, October 26

Early voting in this year’s general election begins on Saturday, October 26 and extends to Sunday, November 3.

Shareholders can vote early at the Dreiser Community Center during the following polling hours:

• October 26: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• October 27: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• October 28: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

• October 29: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

• October 30: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

• October 31: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

• November 1: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

• November 2: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• November 3: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The last day for individuals to register to vote in the 2024 general election is Saturday, October 26. Election Day: Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.

Board ––– (Continued from page 1)

During his report, Mr. Walton explained that Public Safety is still short of the

address any issues.

site.

City Times

and also explained that the transition period is used as an opportunity for the

GOT FOOT PAIN?

(Continues on page 4)

to retain talent once those negotiations get closer.

ton said.

four years.

COMBING

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

Bronx Borough

President Townhall

Let your voice be heard! Join Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson along with Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark, State Senator Jamaal Bailey, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, and NYC Council Member Kevin Riley for a Co-op City town hall meeting. Topics of discussion will include health, public safety, and other key factors affecting Co-op City residents. The meeting will be on Tuesday, October 22, 6-8 p.m., in the Dreiser Auditorium. RSVP at https://bit.ly/ CoopCityTownHall (case sensitive).

DC 9 and Allied Trades Apprenticeship & Career Day

Come to Dreiser Auditorium A, B & C, Oct. 23, 2-7 p.m., for an apprenticeship and career day. Riverbay Corp., and Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, present a construction apprenticeship workshop highlighting careers in commercial painting and decorating, glazing, paper changing, and much more.

Halloween Parade

Get ready for a spook-tacular time! Come to Bartow, room 31 Saturday, Oct. 26, at 12 p.m. for a Halloween Parade ﬁlled with costumes, candy, and community fun! The parade will be followed by two movies, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” at 2 p.m. and “Beetlejuice” at 4 p.m. For more information, contact community@ riverbaycorp.com.

Co-op City

Are We Ready?

Preparedness is the key to safety. Governor Hochul, in conjunction with the New York National Guard, Riverbay Corporation, and NYS Homeland Security and Emergency Citizen Preparedness Corps, present a multi-day information session on emergency readiness, including crime prevention, defense training, and emergency to-go bags. Join us on one of the following dates to learn more:

November 6, 5-8 p.m.; Einstein Center, Rm. 45

November 7, 5-8 p.m.; Dreiser Auditorium A, B&C

November 8, 5-8 p.m.; Bartow Center, Rm. 31

December 7, 1:30-3 p.m.; Dreiser Auditorium A, B&C

CO - OP CITY TIMES 2ND FRONT PAGE

Pickleball Court Grand Opening

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

A brand new pickleball court has ofﬁcially opened in Co-op City.

Though the court, which is located next to the Asch Loop basketball courts, has been in place since the summer, on Monday, October 14, shareholders, members of the Bronx Pickleballers, and the Riverbay Management team, held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new court.

“I’ve been a Co-op City shareholder for the past 31 years and for the ﬁrst time, I am feeling alive,” said shareholder Ydonna Dorner. “Associating with this wonderful group of people, who have decided to take pickleball from the Y (YMCA) to Co-op City, it is just such a wonderful, beautiful feeling right now and today it gives me such pride.”

“This is for the community and, as you can see from the group of people that showed up today, it’s a lot of people interested in pickleball and we just want to enjoy it as a community,” said shareholder Ruth Sharma.

Pickleball, which has grown in popularity in the past few years, is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Though pickleball has become more popular, there are still only a handful of courts located in the Bronx. Before the pickleball court in Asch Loop, many shareholders, like Ms. Dorner, traveled to the YMCA on 229th or to Orchard Beach to play pickleball.

The push for a pickleball court in Co-op City was spurred on by Reginald “Reggie” Fleming, who would go to the handball courts in Asch Loop and use duct tape to create the court. He was joined by the Bronx Pickeballers, a group made up of shareholders and other local pickleball lovers, on the makeshift court. The group would often meet during the week in the mid-afternoon to early evening, and on the weekends in the mid-morning to late afternoon to play with a portable pickleball net.

“We usually play in the mornings at the Y, but I knew that after the Y, I didn’t have enough. I wanted more in the afternoons, but there aren’t a lot of pickleball courts in the Bronx to play,” said Mr. Fleming. “In my search, I heard about pickleball out in Orchard Beach, and I went over there to investigate that. Once I had seen that they had courts situated on the paddleball court, that gave me the idea because I knew these courts here weren’t being used

that much. Eventually I came out here, I took the measurements, and I laid down duct tape to extend this court and make it into a pickleball court.”

Soon after they started creating the court, Riverbay Interim Deputy General Manager Joshua Blake began working alongside the group to install a permanent court for the community, after noticing the increased interest in the sport.

“It’s an exciting time today for Co-op City,” said Mr. Blake at the grand opening. “We put a lot of sweat into this project, we put a lot of effort into this project, and it has been very beautifully done. I thank the Janitorial staff for doing this and Construction as well. On behalf of Riverbay Corporation, I want to extend my gratitude for everyone coming out here today and enjoying the new pickleball ﬁeld. Enjoy.”

Shareholders of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to try their hand at pickleball. Pickleball is generally considered a low-impact sport that uses a paddle that is shorter and lighter than a tennis racquet and the rules are easier to follow than tennis as well.

“My main objective is for people to have good health and have fun and come out and enjoy themselves,” said Mr. Fleming. “It’s less strenuous than tennis, it’s a great game for seniors, get a great workout and the comradery is unbelievable. I hope everybody else in the community will enjoy it and I believe they will.”

CCPD OC Spray Training

This week, Public Safety’s newest recruits underwent OC Spray training, better known as pepper spray. The Training Unit supervised the new recruits to familiarize them with what to expect in case they are ever attacked with OC spray. Recruits were sprayed, instructed to say their name, rank and serial number and then required to run through a series of stations to excute attack manuevers. This training is vital to CCPD officers in the event that suspects unexpectedly attack the officers with substances such as OC spray. This is a critical reminder to the recruits to stay vigilant but be prepared to defend themselves.

Photos by Ralph Henriquez

Board ––– (Continued from page 2)

Director Monique Coleman also asked if there were any more open claims and that while 7% is much better than 15%, it still feels high given the corporation’s most recent 24-month performance.

at least, when coming up with a price. He also said that the last two years have been very good and that Riverbay is moving in the right direction.

“What we need to do is continue with that progress,” said Mr. Lindsey. “The two years to do that. Things like improved driver records and keeping track of those and qualifying those drivers as well. Maintenance as well, keeping track of the vehicles, all of those approved things are having an effect and they’re improving and you’re seeing the numbers there. So, what we need to do is continue that and the idea would be that we would continue to leverage those improvements.”

The USI representatives were then asked to leave the room so the Board could hold a discussion. Director Daryl Johnson asked why Riverbay needed 130 vehicles to operate and questioned the commission that USI was receiving for securing the policy for Riverbay.

Director Mary Pearson also commented that Director Coleman negotiated with

“I’d like to give her credit for making sense of this really crazy industry that says the more you pay, then the more you also have to pay the brokers,” said Director Pearson.

After the directors shared their views, Resolution #24-54 was put up for a vote and passed, with 14 directors voting yes, and one director voting no.

Next on the agenda was Resolution# 24-55, which pertained to a lease agreement for a health and wellness spa providing massage therapy, colon hydrotherapy (colonics), hydrotherapy and skincare. After a vote, the resolution was approved unanimously.

The next resolution was Resolution #24-56, which was a lease agreement for Acricon Health, a medical medical supplies and home health services company. After a vote, the resolution was approved unanimously.

Next up was Resolution# 24-57 which was also a lease agreement for A Place of Miracles Day Care. After a vote, the resolution was approved unanimously.

Next was Resolution #24-51, which was presented by Riverbay Finance Director Averil James-Bonnette. This resolution pertained to the renewal of the contract has used for the last three years, for the corporation’s retirement plan. The threeyear contract will cost Riverbay $16,500.

After some discussion, Director Leah Graham said that she was leaning towards making a motion to amend the time frame of the contract to one year in order to allow the corporation time to do more market research on other companies and prices.

Ms. James-Bonnette responded by explaining that a one-year contract might

MTA ––– (Continued from page 1)

ment, which detailed the biggest infrastructure needs across the entire $1.5 trillion transit system for the next generation of riders. Three main concerns were highlighted in the assessment: aging infrastructure, climate change and new emerging rider needs. Sixty-nine percent of the subway system relies on Needs Assessment showed.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber listed the highlights of the latest Capital Plan in a statement on October 11.

Plan adopted by the MTA makes that continue with a historic level of investment to keep the system in good repair. With accessibility upgrades, thousands of new railcars, modern signals to make the system more reliable, and more, this

of bridges and tunnels, $7.8 billion to upgrade the conditions of 150 subway stations and fully renovate 10 of those stations, $7.1 billion to implement ADA upgrades in at least 60 subway stations and $5.4 billion to help modernize 75 miles of aging signal infrastructure with Communications-Based Train Control technology.

Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP), also known as congestion pricapproximately $15 billion for the agency, however, Governor Kathy Hochul set to start.

On June 6, Governor Hochul explained her reasoning by citing changing cir-

Janno Lieber later addressed the funding shortfall during a September 25

“The MTA Board stands ready, depends on the Governor’s decision, and in fairness, we’ve got to give her a chance to make good on a commitment that she said many, many times in very clear terms that she’s not going to leave the MTA hanging for that $15 billion,” Lieber explained.

deadlines. She explained that if the Board wished, a two-year contract might allow incurring any penalties.

After some discussion, Director Anika Green-Watson asked if Riverbay Management would have to go back to the vendor before they make a motion to amend the resolution and if there is an industry best practice for how often the corporation should change vendors to provide these services. Director Green-Watson also asked what the process was like the last time the corporation changed vendors.

Ms. James-Bonnette explained that before BPAS, Riverbay was in limbo for a few years after the company handling the pension plans went through various new owners. The corporation had sent out bids to several companies and the process took a little over a year.

“It was a very long and arduous process because of the fact that transferring pension assets, it’s not easy,” said Ms. James-Bonnette. “And so, we settled on BPAS being a mid-size company based on the quotation that they gave us. All of the other companies came in around the same, but they were charging according to transactions and when we did the calculation, it would be more than what was quoted from BPAS.”

Ms. James-Bonnette also explained that the corporation has been with BPAS for only three years and that during those years, they had discovered a lot of irregularities that had happened under the previous actuary company that are still

After the discussion, the resolution was brought to a vote and was passed unanimously.

Next on the agenda was Resolution# 24-53, which was for a new contract with Chem-Aqua, for work to be performed on the Copper-Silver Ionization System in the community. The three-year contract will cost Riverbay $2,074,460.

The resolution was presented by Riverbay Maintenance Director Mike Sanders, who said that the contract will include monthly system checks, maintenance, performance reports, lab copper-silver testing, internet monitoring and control. The equipment, Mr. Sanders explained, is proprietary to ChemAqua and is installed in all 35 high-rise building pump rooms and all eight townhouse pump rooms.

After a brief discussion, the resolution was put to a vote and passed with 13 directors voting yes and two voting no.

the contract with Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Corp., to do a second cycle of gas pipe inspections in accordance with Local Law 152. The local law states that building owners must hire a licensed master plumber to inspect the gas piping system in buildings. Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Corp. com-

The contract will cost Riverbay $330,000, plus tax.

After some discussion about the bidding process for the contract, the resolution was brough to vote and passed. Fourteen directors voted yes, and 1 director voted no. (See pages 6 and 19 for the Board resolutions.)

JASA/Bronx Health Sciences

On Thursday, October 17, students from Bronx Health Sciences partnered with JASA to create masks and capes for children living in shelters. Ms. Denise Shelley, who is in charge of JASA’s intergeneration arts and crafts class, says the idea is to inspire the children to feel powerful and strong. All of the crafts will be donated to the Enchanted Makeovers organization. An organization that “strives to inspire and empower women and children living in shelters through our unique projects and programs.” ––Brandi Simpson

BY BRANDI SIMPSON

For The Love of Pickleball

Reginald “Reggie” Fleming is steadily making a name for himself. After picking up a paddle just a year ago, Reggie has embraced the game, improving with each match and becoming an active part of the local Pickleball community.

As a standout member of The Bronx Pickleballers, Reggie Fleming has become a familiar face on the courts, known for his leadership and camaraderie. The Bronx Pickleballers recently celebrated the grand opening of Co-op City’s new pickle ball court on Monday, October 14. During the ceremony, Reggie was honored for his dedication in bringing Pickleball to the Co-op City community as well as the pivotal role he played in making the new court a reality.

Growing up, Reggie was always active playing basketball, baseball, handball, paddleball and enjoyed roller skating, but as his knees started to bother him, he found a new love in Pickleball. First playing a year ago at the YMCA, Reggie found the game infectious and looked for more opportunities to play. After seeing other Pickleball players playing on handball courts at Orchard Beach, he got

neighbors to join him, helping to build the local Pickleball community. “A lot of people stop by out of curiosity; they get inspired and join. I’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback about the game. Come out and have some fun,” he said. Reggie is hoping to host training sessions to help others learn the basics of the game as he continues to learn along with them. “You never stop learning; so many levels are involved. And it’s good to see yourself develop in the game,” Reggie said.

Pickleball is a sport for everyone, both young and old. When asked about advice he has for those interested in the game, he emphasized the importance of stretching, staying fexible, hydrated, and knowing your limits. For older players, he advised, “If the ball is too high, let it fy, and if it’s too low, let it go.”

Reggie also credits fellow Pickleballer Ruth Sharma as a crucial part of completing the project to open the new pickeball court. Ms. Sharma started the Pickleball team at the YMCA, helping to popularize the sport, not just for Reggie and other Co-op City shareholders but for many others across the Bronx as well.

the idea to bring Pickleball to Co-op City utilizing the Asch loop/Aldrich handball courts. Reggie gave out his number, inviting friends and

In addition, Reggie thanks the Riverbay Janitorial and Construction Departments staff for painting and restoring the new court.

Reginald “Reggie” Fleming

Photos by Brandi Simpson

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to

•

Letter to the Editor • –

With Grateful Appreciation to Our Grounds Team

To the Editor: Walking the Co-op City Greenway between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024, I observed beds of beautiful ﬂowers, trees in vibrant autumn colors, and fresh, crisp air. People were walking dogs, jogging, and bicycling.

Have I set up a pattern for you yet? In other words, it was an environment of peaceful, active tranquility. Remember, when you hear chain-

saws and other loud machinery during the weekdays, it might be annoying, but the result is a well-manicured, peace-sustaining Greenway.

We, as residents of Co-op City, owe thanks to Mr. Michael Ambo and his team of hardworking landscape specialists, who labor through hot weather to maintain our vibrant, colorful, treelined Greenway with its nine-tenthsof-a-mile circular pathway.

—Ulysses G. Barnes, Junior

MetroCard Bus Updated Schedule

The MetroCard Bus will be in the Dreiser and Einstein Centers according to the following schedule:

Einstein Loop: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Dreiser Loop: 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Wed., Oct. 30; Tues., Dec. 30

The MetroCard bus will also be at the Bartow Center (Co-op City Blvd. near the eye care store) on the ﬁrst and third Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Board of Directors’ Meeting - October 16, 2024

Second Reading – Resolution #24-44

SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury

SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: October 16, 2024

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited plumbing companies for BID 4072, for Local Law 152 Gas Pipes Inspections; and WHEREAS, one (1) bid was submitted and reviewed by the Project Manager and Project Architecture; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager and Architecture both recommend that the Board approve Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Corp. as the lowest qualiﬁed bidder (recommendation letters attached); and WHEREAS, Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Corp. had previously completed this work and they have held their bid price from four (4) years ago, as a result Management wants to proceed to award this contract 4072 to Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Corp. in the total amount of $330,000.00 plus tax; and

WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conﬂict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract #4072 with Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Corp. in the total amount of $330,000.00 plus tax be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, White, Wright NO: Johnson PASSED

Second Reading – Resolution #24-51

SUBMITTED BY: Lynette Wright

SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: October 16, 2024

WHEREAS:BPAS has provided actuarial consulting services and beneﬁt administration to Riverbay for the last three years; and

WHEREAS: the actuarial services are for the Riverbay Corporation Retirement Plan and the Riverbay Corporation Co-op City Security Department Pension plan; and WHEREAS: Management is recommending renewal of the contract for a period of three years at a not to exceed cost of $16,500 payable by Riverbay Corporation and $204,765 payable from the trust and plan assets; and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conﬂict of interest

as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713. NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed three-year Contract #4105 with BPAS for a not to exceed cost of $16,500 payable by Riverbay Corporation and $204,765 payable from the trust and plan assets 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, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, White, Wright PASSED

Second Reading – Resolution #24-53

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Anika Green-Watson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: October 16, 2024

WHEREAS: Chem-Aqua formerly Enrich Products is the original supplier and installer of the Copper-Silver Ionization System and the service provider; and

WHEREAS: All 35 Hi-rise buildings and 8 Townhouse pump rooms have the equipment installed and operating; and

WHEREAS: This is a request for a contract to renew the services with Chem-Aqua for a 3-year period; and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board, any conﬂict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed three-year Contract #4004 with ChemAqua for a cost of $2,074,460 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, Cylich, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, White, Wright NO: Graham, Johnson PASSED

(Continued on page 19)

Co-op City Times

Co-op City’s ofﬁcial newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. (718) 320-3300, ext. 3375 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Rozaan Boone

Editor-in-Chief

Danielle Cruz

Managing Editor

Brandi Simpson

Junior Associate Editor

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti

Operations Manager

John Crow

New Media Producer

Sheldon Green

Multi-Media Advertising Manager

Brandon Ortiz

Media Assistant

P.M. Campbell

Media Assistant

Send Us Your Letters: The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writer and include their address and phone number, which will be kept conﬁdential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the author.

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be submitted to the Co-op City Times by 3 p.m. Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Email cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or mail to 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 21, Bronx, NY 10475.

Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Advertisements and classiﬁed advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reﬂect an endorsement from Riverbay Corp. of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available.

The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

CCTimes Non-Delivery Number

If the Co-op City Times is not delivered: Call 407-666-8317 on Saturdays only, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Public Safety Report

Beware of Halloween Spoofs!

This week’s article aims to help keep you, your family, and your finances safe this Halloween and all year long. Spoofing is a scam that makes a fake email, text, or phone call appear as though it’s coming from a legitimate source. Spoofing can be spooky, but we want to help you stay safe. Read on to learn more about this scam, as well as some community events and safety tips for a safe Halloween.

Banks and law enforcement agencies have seen a rise in spoofing scams recently, and we want to share some tips to protect yourself. In a spoofing scam, a scammer contacts you via phone, email, text, or fax, pretending to be from a trusted source. The communication may look official, but the goal is to trick you into sharing sensitive information, such as passwords, account numbers, or Social Security details.

It’s crucial that you never provide personal or banking information in response to unsolicited communication, even if the sender or caller seems to be from a trusted source, like your bank.

Tips to Protect Yourself from Spooﬁng

• Companies usually won’t ask for usernames and passwords via unsolicited communication.

• Don’t click links in unsolicited emails or texts. Instead, ﬁnd the company’s ofﬁcial contact information and verify the request.

• Double-check the sender’s email, URLs, and spelling. Scammers often use slight variations to deceive you. For example, the ofﬁcial MCU website is nymcu.org, and the digital banking URL is digital.nymcu.org.

• Be cautious about downloads. Never open attachments from unknown sources, and be wary of forwarded attachments.

• Enable two-factor or multi-factor authentication on any account that offers it, and never disable this extra layer of security.

• Be mindful of what you share online. Scammers can use publicly available details, such as pet names or family information, to guess passwords or security answers.

We hope these tips help you stay protected from cyber threats. This Halloween, let’s make sure the only scary things are the costumes and decorations!

Community Event

On Saturday, October 26, 2024, the Riverbay Fund will sponsor a Halloween Parade at 2049 Bartow Avenue beginning at 12 p.m. This free event provides a safe alternative to trick-or-treating. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Halloween Skate Night will be on Thursday, October 31, at the Bellamy Loop Basketball courts from 4 p.m.-8 p.m.

Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween can be fun for all ages, but it’s important to be aware of potential risks. The Department of Public Safety offers the following safety tips:

• Costumes: Avoid loose costumes and large shoes that can cause tripping. Masks may obstruct vision, so consider using makeup instead. If wearing a mask, make sure to remove it when crossing the street, or enlarge the eye holes to improve visibility. Props like swords should be soft and free of sharp edges.

Public Safety Blotter

October 6

October 13, 2024

2063 Bartow Avenue – A Rite Aid employee reported that three adolescents entered the establishment, removed two items from the shelves and threw them at the register before leaving the establishment. The same three individuals then entered Dollar Tree and removed items from the shelves before ﬂeeing the store without paying. A canvas was conducted in the area by CCPD, ending with negative results.

Opposite 1000 Baychester Avenue – A cooperator reported returning to their parked vehicle and observing that an unknown person(s) had pried the vehicle’s door open and removed a dufﬂe bag containing various items without their permission.

140 Elgar Place – A cooperator reported that a conﬁrmed delivered package had been removed from in front of their apartment door without their permission.

2055 Bartow Avenue – While performing a routine check of the

• Road Safety: Children can become distracted and run into trafﬁc. Remind them to cross streets only at corners, and drivers should stay extra alert. Consider adding reﬂective tape to costumes for visibility in the dark.

• Fire Hazards: Candles should never be used to light Jack-o’-lanterns or any other decorations. Use battery-powered LED lights instead. Costumes should be ﬂame-resistant, and children should be instructed to avoid open ﬂames.

• Halloween Pranks: Some pranks, like egg-throwing or spraying shaving cream, can escalate to violence. Parents should monitor older children, enforce early curfews, and be aware of their whereabouts. Call the Public Safety Department or 911, if you notice suspicious behavior.

• Trick-or-Treating: Children should never enter homes or apartments. All treats should be received at the door, and younger children should be accompanied by an adult. The fear of tampered candy is heightened by recent reports of drugs resembling candy, such as fentanyl. Parents must be extra vigilant this Halloween.

General Safety Reminders

• Property Storage: No personal items should be left in public areas such as hallways, stairways, or laundry rooms. Items like bicycles, strollers, and toys left in these areas pose a ﬁre hazard and may be removed.

• Driving Safety: Halloween falls on a Monday this year, so be extra cautious of young pedestrians and school buses. Always follow traffic rules, including never passing a stopped school bus with flashing red lights. Avoid distractions, maintain a safe speed, and never drive under the influence.

Preventing the Spread of Illness

It’s still important to take steps to prevent the spread of the ﬂu and other contagious illnesses. Handwashing, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding face-touching are all effective ways to stay healthy.

If you see something suspicious, say something. For any concerns about suspicious activity, contact the Department of Public Safety or call 911. We wish all residents a happy, safe, and healthy Halloween!

Co-op City Department of Public Safety: (718) 671-3050

Tips/Concerns/Comments: info@ccpd.us

Follow on X: @CCPDnyc • Visit us at: www.ccpd.us

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, please see below for instructions.

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES

Bartow Mall, CCPD discovered that an unknown person had shattered the glass door of the stationary store, entered unlawfully and removed various items from the store and ﬂed the area. The store manager was notiﬁed and present along with NYPD, who processed the crime scene. The investigation is ongoing.

October 15, 2024

99 Asch Loop – A Riverbay employee reported that an unknown person entered Garage 4 porters’ room and removed a black bag containing a blower without permission. The unknown person was then observed leaving the garage with the property.

100 DeKruif Place – A Riverbay employee reported leaving their work cart containing tools outside of the apartment where they were working. Upon returning to retrieve a tool, it was observed that the work cart had been removed from the area by an unknown person without permission.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunities, please visit the following sites:

www.Indeed.com https://indeedhi.re/ 3SgTKEr

www.Glassdoor.com https://bit.ly/3SgI9Go

www.ZipRecruiter.com

https://bit.ly/3Se8bdw

Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply at any site Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department.

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation

Director’s Viewpoint Leslie Peterson, First Vice President

Keeping You Informed

Breast Cancer Awareness Month in 2024 will take place from October 1–31. The theme for 2024 is “No-one should face breast cancer alone.” This theme highlights the importance of patient-centered care, including medical, emotional, psychological, and social support. Beginning September 10, 2024, mammography facilities must provide all patients receiving a mammogram with one of two Federal breast density notiﬁcation statements (either “not dense” or “dense”). Additionally, the mammogram report sent to referring providers must include an assessment of the patient’s breast density. Get your mammogram. A mammogram can detect breast cancer in its early stages, when treatment is most effective.

“We decide the ﬁrst day of our cancer diagnosis whether we are going to be victims or survivors.” Continued prayers for all survivors.

Heating Season: New York City heating season is from October 1 through May 31st. Owners must maintain indoor temperatures at 68 degrees when outdoor temperatures are below 55 degrees during the daytime and a minimum of 62 degrees indoors overnight regardless of the outdoor temperature. Hot water must be provided at 120 degrees yearround.

General Election Reminder: Make sure you go to the polls and vote.

Recently in the mail, you should have received your Fast Pass Tag, Election District, Assembly District, Early Voting Poll Site and Election Day Poll Site information in English and Spanish. Early Voting Dates: Saturday, October 26, to Sunday, November 3, 2024. General Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2024 and Polls are open from: 6 A.M. to 9 P.M. For more information, contact: NYC Bronx County Board of Elections; Phone: 718-299-9017 or E-Mail: VOTE.NYC

Remember to Flip the Ballot and complete both sides. On the back of this year’s General Election ballot, voters will have the opportunity to decide six (6) ballot proposals. Proposal 1 is statewide and proposes adding anti-discrimination provisions to the State Constitution. Proposals 2 through 6 address Charter Revisions and could signiﬁcantly impact the responsiveness, transparency, and accountability of city government to New Yorkers. Be sure to do your research and vote

Court –––––– (Continued from page 1) what is required by law was instrumental to the Court’s decision. Hopefully this decision will discourage litigation against the Corporation on this issue.”

The Plaintiff has ﬁled a Notice of Appeal to which Mr. Buss responded, “We believe the decision of Justice Perez is sound and will be afﬁrmed on appeal.”

Riverbay was the ﬁrst residential community in the country to install a copper-silver ionization system to protect residents. Previously, such a system was only employed in hospitals and health care facilities. Mr. Buss noted that there is no legal requirement to install this additional level of protection in residential buildings.

responsibly on these proposals.

• PROPOSAL 1: Protecting New Yorkers’ Fundamental Rights

• PROPOSAL 2: More Enforcement & Regulations by Sanitation Agency

• PROPOSAL 3: Wasteful Spending, Slower Results & Less Budget Transparency

• PROPOSAL 4: Blocking Public Safety Laws

• PROPOSAL 5: Meaningless & Misleading Capital Planning Changes

• PROPOSAL 6: Changes to Unrelated City Operations

If you want to know more about the proposals, you can google the City Council page at https://council.nyc.gov/2024-ballot-proposals/. Also check out the Co-op City branch NAACP article in this issue of the Co-op City Times Know Before You Go!

You can also attend Back To Civics Workshop: This Civic Engagement Workshop series is facilitated by the NAACP Co-op City Branch Civic Engagement Chair, Felix Omozusi. It is being held on Tuesday, October 22, at 7:00 p.m. at the NAACP ofﬁce located in Einstein Center, Room 36. RSVP at their ofﬁce phone or email.

Keeping you informed on What’s Coming

Local Law 157: Although two explosions were said not to be caused by gas appliances in 2016, the natural gas sensor law was one of the measures passed by the City Council as extra precaution. LL157 mandated sensors but delayed implementation until national standards were established. Last year, the National Fire Protection Association issued that standard which triggered the Department of Buildings to implement the rule.

For the safety of all, please try and make yourself or a family member over the age of 18 available when informed of your appointment date. To minimize any inconvenience, if there is a need to do a repair in your unit, the gas detector may be installed at the same time.

Local Law 152: Also introduced in 2016was LL152 that mandates periodic inspections of gas piping systems. These inspections are put forth by law to identify and expose any potential gas leaks

promptly and efﬁciently to ensure the well-being of building occupants throughout the city.

Key points of LL 152:

• All city buildings must undergo gas piping inspections once every four years. As of January 2024, due dates for periodic inspections at each building will be the 4-year anniversary of the previous inspection (as indicated on the submitted certiﬁcation). In addition, the inspection cannot be conducted more than 60 days prior to the due date.

• Local Law 152 requires all inspections be conducted by qualiﬁed specialists who are licensed and recognized by the Department of Buildings (DOB), otherwise known as a New York City Licensed Master Plumber (LMP). This ensures a thorough and accurate assessment of the gas piping systems from a certiﬁed professional.

The goal of these inspections is to identify any potential problems and take immediate action. These problems can include:

• Gas pipe leaks.

• Corroded or rusting pipes.

• Physical damage to the gas heating system.

• Illegal or unauthorized Installations.

• Incorrect system installations.

LL152 inspections happen under the oversight of a Licensed Master Plumber. The LMP may perform your inspection or might have a certiﬁed inspector handle the site visit. However, no matter who carries out the inspection, the DOB paperwork must be signed and submitted by an LMP. If the inspection uncovers any underlying problems, an LMP must reinspect and submit a report declaring all conditions requiring corrections have been corrected.

LL152 mandates a visual inspection and leak survey of the exposed gas piping in your building from the point of entry including public spaces, hallways, and mechanical rooms.

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. –Margaret Mead I am pleased to be of service to the community. I can be reached by e-mail at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com.

Gallery ––– (Continued from page 1)

Committee has produced tangible results for the community.

“One of the things is it’s kind of particularly evident that something is wrong about this kind of water bill that we have,” said Mr. Mabry. “That is a major, major threat to Co-op City. Isn’t that water bill increase a threat to us? … So he is focused on less pressing matters, … such as attacking the Riverbay Fund, while he ultimately failed in his purpose to dissolve it.”

Continuing, Mr. Mabry added: “Many of you don’t know that this may be streamed for people who have cable, but it’s not recorded. So outside of that, we’re wasting our time. So basically this is a farce, because what has been happening is that he has allowed us to come up here, talk about our concerns for the last three weeks and then, where’s the report about the concerns?” He then called on Board President Saunders to step down or for the Board to remove him.

Board President Saunders responded that while he did say at last month’s Gallery Session that not every comment deserves a response, what he meant was that a number of shareholders who come up to the microphone do so to vent and get concerns off their chest. “Evidenced by the frst speaker who spoke last [month], who read a long and detailed letter. That letter did not demand a response. That letter was an opportunity to tell the community her side of what she felt within a true story about the Riverbay Fund,” he said.

Citing another example, Board President Saunders referenced the second speaker who is a regular attendee at Open Board meetings, especially those held in the Dreiser Center. The third shareholder who approached the mic then asked if any of the concerns raised by the previous two speakers would be answered. “So what I actually meant was that not everyone who comes before the microphone is looking for a response from the Board,” he said. “Some people simply come to vent. So if I misspoke, you have my sincere apologies.”

The Board President then announced that in order to allow shareholders to speak during the allotted time dedicated to Wednesday’s Gallery Session, he would report on how Management responded to some of the issues raised by shareholders at the Sept. 25th meeting at the end of the session.

“Because whether the Board answers or not, especially when it’s Management issues, Management takes everything they have and they absolutely respond to shareholders,” said Board President Saunders. “The other questions or the other comments that Mr. Mabry made, they are what they are.”

Shareholder Bruce Silberman also asked about the fate of the Riverbay Fund. Referencing Resolution 16-62 which approved disbursement by Riverbay Corporation of up to $150,000 annually to the Riverbay Fund, Mr. Silberman asked if Board President Saunders has a legal right to override the rule of the Board.

“That is an excellent question,” said Board President Saunders, explaining that in 1980, the Riverbay Fund, the not-for-proft entity of Riverbay Corporation, was created by then-Riverbay Attorney Matthew Liffander. “Every corporation, especially one like Riverbay, needs to have a not-for-proft arm so that we can certainly go after grants and funding opportunities that a corporation cannot,” the Board President said.

After 41 years, in May of 2021, Board President Saunders said that the majority members of the Riverbay Board voted to separate the Fund from the Riverbay Corporation.

“Now there are other issues that fy around that, but my argument is that the Riverbay Corporation cannot be without its not-for-proft,” said Board President Saunders. “Therefore, I am not looking to end the Riverbay Fund. I am looking to return it back to Riverbay Corporation.”

Director Bernard Cylich then asked to respond. He said that on May 5, 2021, the Riverbay Board of Directors were still members of the Riverbay Fund Board, and at that time, a draft resolution submitted to restructure the Riverbay Fund was approved by Riverbay Corporation Board members. That vote was 10-1, with four abstentions. Director Cylich pointed out that both he and Director Saunders were among the directors who abstained. Nevertheless, he said this does not change the decision of the Board of Directors of the Riverbay Fund, who are also Board of Directors of the Riverbay Corporation.

“And therefore, in Resolutions 16-52 and 16-45, the Board of Directors voted to allow authorizing Management to provide Riverbay Fund up to $150,000 a year to provide for the certain criteria but in no way those resolutions indicated that they were in disagreement with anything that the Riverbay Fund would change the structure,” said Director Cylich. “…So for you to do that, in essence, it means you are bypassing the will of the Board by unilaterally disregarding those Resolutions, 16-45 to 16-62, and therefore, I don’t see what right you have to do that as the president of the corporation to fulfll the will of the Board of Directors.”

Countering, Board President Saunders said he would not go into the second part of Director Cylich’s statement at this time but he would address the frst part for clarity.

“The Riverbay Fund Board and the Riverbay Board were the same entities –it had been that way since 1980,” Board President Saunders said. “The reason for that is that when decisions have to be made, one meeting can be adjourned from the Riverbay Board, go into Riverbay Fund business, if necessary, adjourn that meeting, and go back into the Riverbay Board meeting.

“So, when Director Cylich says that a meeting was held and the vote was taken by the Riverbay Board, it was taken by the Riverbay Fund. There is no record. There are no minutes of any meeting of the Riverbay Board of Directors accepting that resolution. The Board was the same Board members, but there is no offcial record of the Riverbay Board of Directors, in any of our minutes, in any resolution at a Riverbay Board meeting that we accepted.”

Board President Saunders added that the Riverbay Board resolutions are

about the monies, which he is not disputing, but the two entities are now separate. “One was a corporate entity. This was a private entity. I don’t want to get into that argument right now because at some point, we’ll explain it all, but not tonight. It’s much too lengthy, and we want to get through with this.”

Next, shareholder Sonia Clark was invited to the microphone. She too asked about the Riverbay Fund.

“I’ve been reading opinion posts, I’ve been reading assertions, I’ve been talking to people and nothing has really been resolved,” said Ms. Clark. “And I’m asking you, is this a simple dispute, which it doesn’t seem to be, or an open legal or illegal challenge for autonomy by the Riverbay Fund? And if it is, I don’t think any of us are able to answer it suffciently. But I think that we have a guy here, …Mr. Buss … who is a lawyer.”

Ms. Clarke asked Mr. Buss for an explanation because she said, “we all have a vested interest. These opinions that we hear over and over again are only used to justify our actions. But the actions are not what we need. The actions that all of you are here to do is to support the community. If this is going to be a division in the community, we need to have it straightened out as soon as possible…”

General Counsel Jeffrey Buss said that the matter is a complicated issue and he has not been asked by either entity to render an opinion. He disclosed that his law frm had been providing pro bono legal services for the Riverbay Fund but is no longer doing so because the frm’s primary representation is Riverbay Corporation.

“In 1980, when the Riverbay Fund was established, it is a separate legal entity, okay? So they cannot be one and the same – they have to be separate legal corporations,” said Mr. Buss. “What they did have in common was, they shared the same Board of Directors. That has changed and changing the Board of Directors does not change the legal status of the Riverbay Fund or the Riverbay Corporation. I would hope that this will get resolved shortly because I think the statement that you’re making that we need to work together as a community for the common good is what we’re here for and this is such a fantastic, beautiful community, I would really urge people to try to come together on this issue and work together on this issue. And if I can facilitate that, I’d be more than happy to do so.”

Ms. Clarke expressed consternation and impressed that legal intervention appears to be needed to help bring the matter to resolution. “That’s why I was asking you, the man of law, to at least direct some ideas as to how this can be resolved as soon as possible because this can tear us asunder. … I think if we can just get this out of the way, we can go on with our business of living a good life. Riverbay Corporation is a good area. Co-op City is a good area. I’ve lived here for 53 years. I don’t intend to move. And because of that, I am concerned. And I’m going to continue to be concerned until we can get this out of the way.”

“And we will get it out of the way, I promise you,” Board President Saunders said.

Shareholder Junius Williams asked if the community will be apprised of the results of the water inspections being conducted in apartments since many shareholders have expressed concerns about water quality.

General Counsel Buss told shareholders that there are two separate issues going on with the water. Regarding the robocalls that Mr. Williams referred to in prefacing his question, Mr. Buss said those inspections have nothing to do with Legionella. He reminded shareholders that in 2019, the Board of Directors installed the state-of-the-art copper-silver ionization disinfection system designed to kill legionella bacteria. In or around 2022, the New York City Council passed a law which requires that any change or treatment of water, including the copper-silver ionization disinfecting system, to be tested to ensure that it has no adverse effect on the water. Mr. Buss explained that the system has an enclosed container that the water goes into and inside that container, there are rods, some coated with cooper and some with silver. When an electric current is applied, it ionizes water and it also kills legionella bacteria.

“Legionella bacteria is everywhere and if you recall back in 2015, we had an issue with the Power Point cooling tower, and that’s when the Board said, let’s spend it. We spent $3.6M to install this system,” said Mr. Buss. “You were the frst and at the time, the only residential community that had such a system, and it is way above what the law requires to be done.”

The 2022 City Council law requires the water to be tested to make sure there is no copper or silver in the water.

“That’s what those tests are about and unfortunately, the law, as drafted –and we’re trying to get it changed – requires all 43 systems to be tested every month,” said Mr. Buss. “Some are between 5 and 10 tests, and they have to go into individual apartments.”

These water tests are very expensive, Mr. Buss reported, because an independent engineer must be hired to make an appointment to conduct the tests in individual apartments, then send the samples to an independent laboratory for testing.

“And a few test results that have already come back have shown absolutely no problem whatsoever. None at all,” Mr. Buss said.

In the second case related to the community’s water, shareholders in Building 17 recently received notice from the NYC Department of Health, notifying them, as per city requirement when two people living at the same address are diagnosed with Legionella within a 12-month period, the DOH comes in to start sampling the building’s water to see if there’s a problem at the location. Mr. Buss informed shareholders that in October 2023, one person who lives in Building 17 was diagnosed with Legionella and at the end of September

(Continued on page 13)

I’m back. I had shingles. It was dreadful. (Still is, but less so.) Over 50? 60? Listen when your doctor tells you to take the darn vaccine.

Now that I can hold the computer mouse and type with more than my left hand and the pinky of my right hand, it’s time for me to play catch-up, because boy what I missed: reading – and contributing to – a month of Co-op City Times issues (issuu. com/CCTimes/).

What did I miss? I missed the entire mid-September to mid-October Spanish Heritage Month. I’m way behind in my LL97 Carbon Reduction Group readings and writings in the effort to secure funding for alternative energy sources to run our Power Plant – instead of just giving up on the planet. September 25th’s Open Board Meeting was a Zoom-in for me and I missed the Board brieﬁng for last Wednesday’s Open Board Meeting in Einstein altogether.

I’ve also had to back-burner my ongoing crusades for equitable bus service, reasonable Metro-North station access, a southbound sister ramp at the Hutchinson River Parkway and Bartow, an alternative property insurance source search, and the perennial push to restore on-campus voting at our three poll sites. I even had to take a break from nagging one and all to try to spell Co-op City properly, fer cryin’ out loud.

My budget wish list. I did not, however, miss my opportunity to put in my 11-item budget priority wish list for the next two years – April 1st, 2025 through March 31st, 2027 – before being knocked out of commission.

I’ve pressed for some of these Capital Improvements for years: a Bartow elevator, functioning convectors, Einstein’s second floor bathroom renovation, Einstein’s and Dreiser’s atrocious second floor flooring replacement, and the big one – a command center real-time camera array watch system to ramp up security and take the place of lobby and garage attendants.

All any of it takes is money, money from our three money buckets: Capital, Operational, and Grants.

The 2022 mortgage reﬁnance and the $50 million gifted by the State reﬁlled the empty Capital bucket, making just thinking of realizing these improvements even possible.

Potentially, the Capital bucket could free up the Operations bucket that keeps Co-op City clean, green, safe, and amenable. I’d dip into that bucket for better sound. We need equipment tweaking and audio staff training to get the most out of our indoor and outdoor presentations.

Our Grants bucket isn’t empty but it’s not full enough. I’d like some of our congressional waterfront grant dollars spent on Section 5’s Waterview Walkway and a performance pavilion in each of the three main sections: Dreiser, Bartow, and Einstein.

Then, hire a grant researcher/writer to fund Power-Plant-saving, Local Law 97, decarbonization projects so we can ﬁnish our high-rise hallways and garages lighting projects and start installing solar panels everywhere possible. (Funds are also needed to fulﬁll our 15,000+ circuit breaker replacement obligation.)

Grants are only obtainable by tapping resources via the Riverbay Fund (or its replacement).

Those are my 11 budget priority wish list projects.

And these are my three suggestions: 1.) reexamine our corporation’s definition of “lowest responsible and qualified bidder.” 2.) ask the community to decide which non-essential and non-mandatory expenditures to implement. 3.) start with improvements that both prevent LL97 non-compliance fines and provide income.

Voting. What could be more important than the next two-year budget? I’ll tell you what. This year’s presidential and congressional elections.As always, there’s nothing more important than voting on all levels – Board, City, State and Federal – to show our elected ofﬁcials that we’re paying attention. But, this year the stakes couldn’t be higher and the contrast couldn’t be more stark between the two presidential candidates: one who appeals to our better angels and the other to our primal fears. So VOTE!!

We’re one week away from Early Voting for State and Federal representatives. Go to ﬁndmypollsite.vote.nyc to see who and what you’ll be voting for. They’re not making it easy this year to see a Sample Ballot. Once you’ve input your ad-

dress and you’re on the polling details page, look for the line: To verify there is an election for your district, Click Here. All candidate and proposal info appears but you still don’t see the Sample Ballot until you click the blue box that reads View Sample Ballot. Now that’s the one you’ll be using to vote any way you choose, either by mail, Early Voting, or voting on Election Day. We’ve got a whole week to ﬁgure out an early voting plan and there should be plenty of reminders along the way including in the next week’s CCTimes issue. But what needs your attention now?

This needs your attention now!

1.) Are you registered? Double check by calling 1-866-868-3692 or check online at Vote.NYC. 2.) Do you want to vote by mail? If you don’t plan on Early Voting or voting on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5th, you can vote by mail. But you’ve got to get your request in right away. You only have until October 26 to request a mail-in ballot online but requests by mail must arrive at the Board of Elections Bronx ofﬁce – 1780 Grand Concourse, 5Fl., Bronx, NY 10457 – by October 26.

If you request a mail-in ballot, plan to use it. If you change your mind and decide to vote in person, you can only vote at your assigned Election Day poll site location with an afﬁdavit ballot, not by using a voting machine.

Next week. Early voting starts one week from today in the Dreiser Auditorium. The nine-day early voting period starts on Saturday, October 26. The weekend hours – Saturdays and Sundays, 10/26, 10/27, 11/2, 11/3 – run from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Weekday hours, Monday through Friday, 10/28 to 11/1, run even longer, from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.

Check the grandkids’ birthdays. Eighteen by 11/5? They can pre-register and vote this year! Have a good week, everybody, and feel free to contact me, MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718219-2211.

Management Report –––

(Continued from page 1)

Public Safety Staffing

CCPD current staffng levels grew to be (49) forty-nine or 53% short of the budgeted 93 Peace Offcer positions. The new recruitment class with our in-house Peace Offcer Training Academy is progressing with a total of (16) sixteen recruits in the Academy. Management has begun recruitment efforts for the next class, which is anticipated to begin mid December 2024. The Human Resources Department received a total of applications of which 182 were identifed for interviews.

Heat/cHange-Over

Air conditioning in the community was shut down and the Power Plant Team began transitioning to heating operations last week. The Power Plant team will continue to monitor the community during this transition to stabilize the heat.

POSt eartHquake aSSeSSmentS

Riverbay structural engineers, O&S Associates completed an assessment of 35 buildings and the 7 townhouse clusters in the community and did not observe any damages from the earthquake that occurred on April 5, 2024.

SHareHOlder OrientatiOn

Beginning Monday, November 18, 2024, Management will post a Shareholder Orientation video on the Co-op City website. This video will provide information for ALL shareholders as it relates to the “Co-op City Shareholder Experience.” House rules and regulations contained in the video can serve as a refresher for shareholders, especially those that moved in some time ago.

2-year budget Planning

During the month of September 2024, Management held fve (5) community engagement sessions with building and townhouse association leaders where the focus was primarily capital improvements needed in the community. The purpose of these sessions were to gather information from the community that will be shared with the Board Directors as decision are reached on the projected Capital budget. The Capital budget will refect the needs of the community within the established budgetary constraints. We appreciated the association leaders’ participation in the 2-Year Budget planning process.

Management Report ––– (Continued from page 11)

Below are the KPIs (Key Performance IndIcators) for sePtemBer 2024.

(Management Report continues on page 14)

(Continued from page 9)

2024

– 11½ months later – another person in the building was diagnosed. The DOH has directed Management to prepare a detailed water sampling report and hire an independent laboratory to conduct the testing, both of which have been done.

“People in Building 17 are going to get notices probably next week asking them for access to their apartment,” said Mr. Buss. “So, that’s why you’re getting those notices.”

Riverbay Board President Saunders interjected: “By the way, Counselor Buss and I will be meeting with Councilman Riley and the maker of that [City Council] bill to see if they can exempt Co-op City from having to do as many inspections as they’ve done. That’s just another way of my being effective as a Legislative chair.”

Shareholder Novella Thomas said that she has been a Co-op City resident for 54 years. “I heard someone say the other day that Co-op City is going down,” she said. “Now we’re either part of the problem or part of the solution because if we live here, it’s up to us to make sure that we do what we need to do to keep it, you know, respectable and looking decent and so it’s up to all of us.”

For instance, Ms. Thomas said, if you are inclined to make a lot of noise and you live on an upper foor or whatnot, be considerate because you could be on the lower level.

“We just need to be considerate and work together to keep this Co-op City looking like a place where we want to live and we’re not ashamed to have people come and visit and that type of thing so let’s be a part of the solution and not a part of the problem,” said Ms. Thomas, to which Board President Saunders noted, “And I would argue that the 6,400 people who are on our waiting list believe that we’re the best community in the Bronx as well.”

The next speaker, Katherine Wood, complimented the Riverbay Grounds department for the incredible job they have been doing to keep the property looking “absolutely fabulous.”

“Every time I look at it, it is just mind-blowingly gorgeous. These guys work so hard,” Ms. Wood said.

The next issue she addressed was subletting. She asked if Legal has an idea of what proportion of residents are subletters.

“If it’s not very many, it doesn’t really matter. But if it’s a large number, perhaps we could blanket the community with a non-threatening fyer saying, ‘look, if you’re subletting from someone, it’s not your fault, we’re not coming after you, but it’s illegal, you probably didn’t know it’,” said Ms. Wood. “But we need to know who these people are. Maybe we offer an amnesty or something. I don’t know if it’s still a big problem.”

Ms. Wood also asked if someone could monitor Craigslist to see who is placing advertisements on the site, especially since Riverbay has such an extensive list of people who want to legitimately own an apartment in Co-op City. She pointed out that this may be one reason why shareholders don’t vote in the annual Riverbay Board of Directors election.

Director Lynette Wright weighed in stating that subletting is illegal under Mitchell-Lama law and those who are doing it, should not. “However, I do also agree with what Ms. Thomas said, which is that everybody has to be a part of the solution,” she said.

“If there are things that you suspect, … this is now something that needs to be reported because it’s not only just a if I like my neighbor’s situation, it’s also a fnancial situation,” said Director Wright. “So every time we have someone that we’re unable to move people out, that’s a movement issue. More people are on the list. That, collectively, hurts everybody when we have to do that. So, it’s not just that, hey, what is the Board doing, what is Management doing? We can’t do it if we can’t see it. But you can. So, if you do see something, obviously say something … Be able to report it to Legal and have them be able to investigate. And they have been doing that.”

Before handing over the mic to Mr. Buss, Board President Saunders informed shareholders that Mr. Buss has been diligently working on at least two areas where Riverbay may be able to reduce, if not eliminate, subletting in Co-op City.

Mr. Buss said that his opinion on subletting has changed considerably after listening to the large number of people who are saying that they don’t know who their neighbor is. “And maybe they’re not voting or they’re not participating. You feel a lack of security,” he said. “You also have a situation where affordable housing is a really precious scarce commodity. And we have over 6,000 families waiting for the opportunity to share in this wonderful community. They want to live here and they can’t.”

General Counsel Buss went on to say that part of the problem was that people who are subletting, stay quiet. They generally pay their maintenance so they don’t come to the attention of the Legal department.

“When somebody would come to the attention of the Legal department, there’s outside law frms that Riverbay uses and they were following the traditional rule book of saying, okay, we have to give this person an opportunity to cure, … and you send out a notice,” said Mr. Buss. “And you have to hire a detective and spend money and you go to court. Courts are backed up, it takes a long time. You fnally get to the end of the case, maybe you get a judgment … And, at that point, the court gives them an opportunity to cure, and a year and a half later, the person who is the shareholder comes back and says, ‘hey, I’m here.’ And the whole case is annulled.

“We have decided not to follow that playbook, and by the end of the month, we’re going to unleash, and it might be threatening, we’re going to unleash the frst of a series of lawsuits, where we’re going to sue the people that are subletting, and we are going to demand that they turn over to Riverbay all the money and the proft that they made by taking advantage of this situation,” Mr. Buss declared.

He also reported that Riverbay is looking for what he termed “good test cases,” and without disclosing too much, he said that shareholders will read more about this in the Co-op City Times

“The frst case will involve somebody, where we have to have a piece of paper, where they sold, sold their apartment to another person,” Mr. Buss said. “We have another case, and Director Wright was very instrumental in bringing some of these to our attention, where people were advertising publicly for Airbnb, and we have those advertisements. We have contacted, by the way, and registered with Airbnb that we are a community that you may not sublet, which makes it illegal for Airbnb to even take those ads now. And if they do, they’re going to be sued, too, mark my words.”

Ms. Wood added: “Well, that’s good to hear because, as you say, there’s 6,000 people on that list who are hardworking, desperate to get a place to live that they can afford, and then they have these guys making a proft, which is wrong, besides being illegal.”

Riverbay Board President Saunders thanked Ms. Wood for her consistent advocacy on the subletting issue recalling that when he frst ran for the Board in 2015, she had raised the topic back then as well.

Board Director Cylich offered that Co-op City’s previous management had attempted a pilot amnesty program for subletters which produced some responses. “So, it could be a solution to a problem today too,” he said.

In conclusion, Board President Saunders circled back to update shareholders on some of the concerns raised at the September Gallery Session.

“You’ll remember shareholder Barbara Rose … spoke about the cleanliness of the Dreiser area,” said Board President Saunders. “So, we want you to know that Management’s response was that they will continue to address this matter by cleaning the area daily and power washing the sites often.”

He added there was another specifc site that Ms. Rose spoke about which has also been power washed often.

Continuing, Board President Saunders said that another shareholder, Selma Glazer, raised concerns about cleanliness of the basements in Buildings 4, 8 and 35, and about infestation. He reported that Management is addressing the conditions in the basements and will continue to monitor and maintain a clean environment at the locations.

“So, it is not that every question is not being responded to – they certainly are, and certainly by our fne management team. Thank you very much, EGM Walton,” said Board President Saunders, closing out the evening’s Gallery Session.

Management

–––

New Riverbay Bookkeeping Hours

Riverbay Bookkeeping hours are as follows: Mondays – Thursdays: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (For in-person service)

From 2 p.m.-5 p.m., shareholders can come in to the Riverbay administrative offce and make an appointment to see a bookkeeper for the following day.

If your matter is urgent, bookkeepers are available by phone or send an email to RiverbayFinance@riverbaycorp.com

Fridays: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (For in-person service)

These hours will be in effect until further notice. ––Riverbay Finance Department

Management Report –––

(Continued from page 14)

Riverbay Corporation Fiscal Year 24/25 Budget Overview

The budget summary below gives a snapshot of Riverbay Corporation’s Budget vs. Actual performance for Fiscal Year 24/25 for period beginning April 01, 2024, and ending August 31, 2024. Income

At the end of August 2024, actual carrying charges were slightly greater than anticipated by 3% or $3.1 million due to greater than expected receipts of carrying charges. Other income was less than anticipated by 7% or $1.5 million primarily due to less than anticipated sales of electrical power income.

A breakdown of some of the other income streams are included in Appendix A to this narrative.

Summary of Expenses

Departmental Expenses:

Total departmental expenditures, which includes salaries, fringe benefts and other expenses associated with the day-to-day departmental activities involved with providing direct and indirect services to the shareholders are down 6% or $ 3.7 million.

Many vacancies in several departments, especially the Public Safety Department, continue to contribute to the positive variances by the departments. Although some departments reported positive budget variances in payroll, there were some negative budget variances in the operating budgets. For instance:

* Power Plant was over budget by $856,000 due mostly to unforeseen Ric Will repairs and chemical treatment costs.

* Construction was over budget by $26,000 due to an increase in Roof Repairs.

* Extermination was over budget by $35k,000 due to overtime and chemical supplies.

* Grounds was $15,000 over budget due to purchases of supplies and equipment costs (Seasonality purchasing).

* Automotive Services was over budget by $10,000 due to increased vehicle tracking costs.

* Safety was over budget by $31,000 due to increased environmental remediation costs.

* Computer Services Department reported a negative (114.3%) budget variance of $1.1 million for June 2024. As explained in last month’s report, the Department was over budget due to invoices totaling approximately $495,000 for furniture and equipment that had been encumbered in August 2023. SHI International billed these invoices and remain as open purchase orders. To date, these invoices have not been paid due to ongoing negotiations between Riverbay and SHI International. As long as these purchase orders remain open, the department will continue to show this negative variance.

* Asbestos and fooring materials costs continue to be below budget.

Corporate Expenses:

Corporate expenditures were over budget 0.1% or $5.9 million due mostly to 2024/25 accrued water costs.

Debt Service & FeeS:

Debt service & fees were under budget by 0.3% or $57K due to greater than expected replacement reserve fees and mortgage insurance premiums required payments.

Overall Performance

Overall, the grand total actual expenses of $118,588,000 which include departmental, corporate and debt service were greater than anticipated against the grand total actual income of $115,995,000 which yielded a defcit of $(2,593,000). Also, the year-to-date budget for grand total expenses was $116,399,000 which was more than anticipated when compared to the year-to-date budget grand total revenue of $114,622,000 which yielded a negative variance of $(1,776,000).

• Riverbay Power Plant Operations Be

Riverbay’s Ofcial YouTube Channel is Full of Useful Videos for Shareholders!

Stay informed! Tune in Today!

Te following videos are available now:

• Riverbay Convector Water Sensors

• Convector Cleaning (English & Spanish)

• How To Clean Windows in Co-op City

• Introducing the CSCPay Mobile App

• Proper Use of Automated Lobby Doors

• Riverbay Fire Safety Outside Apartment

• Riverbay Noise Complaints

• Co-op City Call Centers

An Apple A Day!

Co-op City Creatives: Brandon Bradley

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Brandon Bradley is a 27-year-old visual artist from Co-op City. He strives for originality in his caricature work, character design, and concept art.

Growing up in Section 1, he says he was fascinated by shows like “Dragon Ball.” Young Brandon wondered what methods the show’s creator, the late Akira Toriyama, used to create it. While he described art as a hobby practiced by his father, uncle, and grandfather, he says he is the frst to turn it into a career.

Bradley graduated from CUNY’s York College in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in fne arts. With hopes of entering the animation industry, he did not let COVID-19 ruin his aspirations. He spent the pandemic strengthening his graphic design, drawing, and painting skills.

Since then, he has networked and worked various freelance art jobs, including story boarding and caricature gigs with large audiences. Bradley was recently featured at Bay Plaza Mall’s 10th anniversary celebration, and his art is currently exhibited on the 3rd foor of the mall.

One of Bradley’s long term aspirations includes art direction for a 2D animated feature, specifcally in science fction or fantasy. He advises upcoming artists to utilize digital resources to develop their craft. “We live in a social media age,” he said. “There is defnitely content online for all artists of all mediums.”

Brandon Bradley

Artwork by Brandon Bradley

Riverbay’s Community Relations Department organized a seasonal Apple Picking event for cooperators, young and old alike, who had the option to hunt for the perfect apples through bins, or simply pick up their apples pre-bagged.

Photos by Brandi Simpson

Nature’s Gift

Co-op City shareholders were treated to another beautiful site from Mother Nature when the moon rose with a backdrop of the glowing Aurora Borealis on Wednesday, October 16. Photo by Mayra Cruz

Director s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson

Questionable Business Resolutions

I used to justifably vote no for almost every resolution that was presented to our board. Why? It was that I felt that our business was being conducted in a bad way. And, now, as you continue reading, I want you to think about the way that business is being conducted in our community.

Bad Board Resolutions

The board and management had a meeting on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the resolutions for our board meeting on October 16, 2024. This way, our directors and managers can review, and possibly resolve, issues with the resolutions.

This viewpoint was written on Sunday, October 13, 2024. So, now, you can see my preliminary thoughts about these resolutions. Also, you can see how each director voted and the overall vote count for these resolutions. This way, some board directors cannot say that I used their name in my viewpoint to create an “attack” on them when they approved a questionable resolution.

The following resolution was supposed to contain information about Riverbay’s bidding process. This bidding process should mean that we’re going to follow state regulations and send out bids to other entities. Then, we’re supposed to accept the “lowest responsible bidder.”

So, please review the frst two sentences of this resolution and then see if you can identify a problem with it. Ready? “Whereas, the Procurement Department solicited plumbing companies for BID 4072, for Local Law 152 Gas Pipes Inspections.” Now, Stop! Did you catch a big problem with this sentence? Does this sentence state how many companies received a bid package from Riverbay? No!

Small mistake, huh? Let’s read the second sentence: “Whereas, one (1) bid was submitted and reviewed. …” So, can you believe that management awarded this contract for $330,000 plus tax to one vendor?

On the other hand, another document that was previously attached to this resolution shows that bid documents were sent to 21 other plumbing companies. So, do you honestly think that these 21 companies did not send in a bid to make between $300-400,000? Now, I want you to make your own decision about this resolution.

Not sure? Well, let’s review the frst two sentences of another resolution, 24-53, to see if bids were sent out to other water treatment companies. “Whereas: Chem-Aqua formerly Enrich Products is the original supplier and installer of the Copper-Silver Ionization Systems and the service provider; and whereas: All 35 Hi-rise buildings and 8 Townhouse pump rooms have the installed and operating. …” So, in accordance with state regulations, did Riverbay send out bids for this water treatment resolution? No! Riverbay didn’t even bother to send out bids for this 3-year contract that totals $2,074,460. Now, can you see how business is being conducted here?

Now, let’s consider a resolution about our commercial automobile policy. This resolution, 24-54, states that we have 130 vehicles here. So, can you believe that none of these vehicles can leave Co-op City— without permission?

We only have 55 offcers in our Public Safety Department. However, these offcers are divided up into three shifts. Now, let’s say that two offcers ride in one vehicle. So, as you can see, Public Safety can only use a small number of vehicles here.

Similarly, our Maintenance, Sales, and our departments can only use so many vehicles here. However, can you believe that some of our employees are assigned a vehicle? Therefore, this insurance policy is costing us $654,751. And, not surprisingly, the insurance brokers are making almost $74,000 in commissions. Again, we have 130 vehicles here. So, what do you think about this matter?

The Riverbay Fund Has to Go

Did you see some of the wild statements that were printed last week in the Co-op City Times? Look, this Riverbay Fund detached itself from the Riverbay Corporation only so that they can receive money. Thereafter, these directors made it clear that they want the Riverbay Corporation to continue to give them $150,000 every year.

However, they told our directors that we do not have any rights to review their books. Plus, they want Riverbay to supply our lawyers, our administrative personnel, and equipment to them—for free. Then, they want to receive money from politicians and NYC. They even asked AOC for $1,500,000 to fx up the former movie theater on Bartow Avenue.

But, based on a previous board discussion, they knew that it would take $4-5 million to convert this theater into a youth center. Without any elections, they want to appoint their own board directors. Thereafter, they can appoint their family, friends, etc. onto their board. So, yes, we must stop them from conducting business here. Close – Experience is the Best Teacher

We have to deal with a lot of nonsense that goes on here. On the other hand, we can turn this nonsense around and use it as teaching points in our homes, schools, and other places. For instance, we can teach our family and students the pitfalls that can happen when they work with some managers and some directors.

Contact Information

Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Currently, here is my ONLY email account: djohnson@riverbayboard.com

I will never ask for or accept money from anyone. Therefore, please do not respond to any message with my name on it that requests money, money transfers, gift cards, personal information, or anything from you. And, please do not ever send money or anything to anyone because you saw my name on a false message. Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. And, please hang up your phone immediately if someone calls you and says that they’re Daryl Johnson or is associated with me and asks you for money or anything else.

Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Building 6 Association

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this, it fnds you in good standing.

Neighbors, happy Italian Heritage Month and Indigenous Peoples week. We have had a very productive week collecting Halloween candy as we gear up for the second annual “SpookTacular” in the front lobby on October 31 from 5-8 p.m. Also, I encourage all children to partake in the Riverbay Fund’s Halloween skate party at Bellamy Loop Basketball courts. You can bring your own skates or skates will be provided free of charge.

Also, remember every Saturday, from 10-12 p.m., is the Ebonybutterfies free workshop inside the Building 6 Association room. Contact Mrs. Mosely at 646-309-9913 for details.

President Lassiter, 347-366-7690, is looking for volunteers to distribute candy on Halloween. As for the chairs of the Social Committee, they will perform their civic duties by working the polls when early voting starts on October 26 until November 3. Our early voting polling site is in the Dreiser Loop Auditorium. Everyone, please vote.

As always, I pray for good health, happiness and safety over all. Godspeed.

––Lauren Lassiter

Resolutions ––– (Continued

from page 6)

Lease Resolution #24-55

SUBMITTED BY: Leah Richardson

SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: October 16th, 2024

WHEREAS, Sherri Davis has requested a lease from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 100 Benchley Place, Unit B, Bronx, New York, to be used for Health and wellness spa providing massage therapy, colon hydrotherapy (colonics), hydrotherapy and skincare; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is fve years with one fve-year renewal option with a 5-month rent concession and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for the premises at 100 Benchley Place, Unit B, Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner, and Sherri Davis, Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s Management is hereby approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and be it

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

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, White, Wright PASSED

Lease Resolution #24-56

SUBMITTED BY: Leslie Peterson

SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: October 16th, 2024

WHEREAS, Acricon Health LLC has requested a lease from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 167 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, New York, to be used for durable medical supplies and home health services; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is fve years with one fve-year renewal option with a 4 month rent concession and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for the premises at 167 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner, and Acricon Health LLC, Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s Management is hereby approved as submitted by management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and be it

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

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, White, Wright PASSED

Lease Resolution #24-57

SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury

SECONDED BY: Leah Richardson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: October 16th, 2024

WHEREAS, A Place of Miracles Day Care has requested a lease from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 100 Erskine Place, Bronx, New York, to be used as a daycare/school; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is fve years with one fve-year renewal option with a 6 month rent concession and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for the premises at 100 Erskine Place, Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner, and A Place of Miracles Day Care, Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s management is hereby approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and be it

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

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, White, Wright PASSED

Insurance Resolution #24-54

SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright and Andrea Leslie BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: October 16, 2023

WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Commercial Automobile Insurance Policy with the Selective Insurance Company expires October 31, 2024 with the following expiring annual premiums and rates:

A) Contractor’s Equipment insurance expiring premium of $1,460.00 based on an average rate of $209.00 per vehicle for 7 vehicles;

B) Liability expiring premium of $559,013.00 based on an average rate of $4,472.00 per vehicle for 125 vehicles; and

C) Physical Damage expiring premium of $51,321.00 based on an average rate of $590.00 per vehicle for 87 vehicles leased through Enterprise Fleet Management, for a total annual policy expiring premium of $611,794.00 for the policy period 10/31/23 to 10/31/24; and

WHEREAS, Management reviewed the current feet to see if any vehicles could be dropped or added which resulted in 2 less vehicles decreasing the feet size from 132 to 130 vehicles; and

WHEREAS, Douglas Elliman’s (DE) Director of Risk Management evaluated various brokers to compete against the incumbent automobile broker, USI Insurance Services, Inc. (USI). HUB International Limited (HUB) was selected by DE to market and solicit a competing automobile insurance carrier premium quote. Unfortunately, no insurance carrier was willing to entertain HUB with any quotes; and

WHEREAS, the Director of Risk Management now recommends renewing the Commercial Automobile Insurance Policy with Selective Insurance Company (see attached handouts) through USI as broker at the following renewal annual premiums and rates:

A) Contractor’s Equipment insurance renewal premium of $1,303.00 based on an average rate of $186.00 per vehicle for 7 vehicles;

B) Liability premium of $592,855.00 based on an average rate of $4,820.00 per vehicle for 123 vehicles; and

C) Physical Damage premium of $60,593.00 based on an average rate of $673.00 per vehicle for 90 vehicles leased through Enterprise Fleet Management. The total Automobile premium is $654,751.00 for the policy period 10/31/24 to 10/31/25, a 7.02% increase over the expiring policy premium.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves the placement of the Commercial Automobile Insurance Policy with Selective Insurance Company for an annual renewal premium of $654,751.00 as detailed above for the policy period 10/31/24 to 10/31/25.

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

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, White, Wright NO: Johnson PASSED

Co-op City Times Photo Submissions

When submitting club articles with pictures to the Co-op City Times, please DO NOT EMBED picture/s in your Word document or your email text. Send the picture/s as a HIGH RESOLUTION 300 DPI ATTACHMENT for proper print reproduction. All submissions must be emailed to: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com. Thank you.

Building 22AB Association

This month starts our new beginning towards improving our Association with your help. All information will be in the Co-op City Times and posted on the bulletin board with instructions for all activities.

Our next meeting is October 28, at 7:00 p.m. in the association room on the frst foor on the B-side. We will have a special guest: Lieutenant Charles Thomas from the Public Safety Department. Please submit all questions in advance of the meeting to JoanY924@Yahoo.com. We have had complaints about cooperators illegally double parking. Please be considerate and return in a reasonable manner.

Compactor Rooms: We, as cooperators, need to keep this room organized. Read and follow all instructions to eliminate bugs.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Everyone’s time is important. Remove your clothes on time from the washer and dryer. If you use fabric softener sheets, pick them up and dispose of them because it is an accident waiting to happen if left on the foor.

Happy birthday to all. Prayers to all who lost loved ones. Please check on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something.

––Betty Leak

African-American

Association of Co-op City

“Open Mic” Review!

There were Belly Dance and Salsa demonstrations with the participants! Poets and rappers, and great singers, too. Even the line dancers came through! New crafty and artsy members, and a wealth of participants and spectators. In other words, Open Mic was bangin’! We made some changes to our upcoming events schedule. See and save the dates below.

Next Open Mic: November 16, from 4-8 p.m.

Can you sing? Are you funny? Are you a dancer, a poet, or a novelist? Maybe you’re a painter? Or a jack-of-all of these trades? This platform (this mic) is for you! Come, show your talents and have some fun. Adults only please and language must be kept respectable.

Rock The Vote! (Google this video)

At our last General Meeting (Sunday, September 15) someone asked, “How do we reach our youth, encourage them to register to vote and exercise their right to do so?” The answer came from a brilliantly created rap video from the artist/rapper, YelloPain. We recommend this video to anyone who wants to understand the power of your vote. Google: YelloPain – “My Vote Don’t Count.” Our next gathering will be our General Meeting in person tomorrow in Dreiser, Rm. 15, at 3 p.m.

Special Message to the Children

Moms and dads, aunties, uncles, grandmas and grandpas, let’s help our children reach their highest potential. We don’t believe in tuition, when there are scholarships available for everyone that does their best. All you have to do, young ones, is bring home the A’s! We gave you a push in September. You received school supplies and information was provided to receive tutoring free of charge. If you want this info again, contact us via email or give us a call. Our contact information is listed below. To the children, teens and young adults, we believe in you!

Coming Events!

Join us at these fabulous upcoming events and programs.

Tomorrow, Sunday, October 20 – General Meeting, 3 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15.

November 16 – Open Mic/Fundraiser, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15.

November 17 – General Meeting, 3 p.m., on Zoom.

November 23 – Bronx Rodeo Health Fitness Line Dance Workshop, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Bartow Center, Dance Salon #31.

Dec. 7 – Open Mic/Fundraiser, CANCELLED.

December 14 – Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration.

If you wish to join the AAACC: $25/year for single membership and $35/ year for family/ household membership. Zelle us your payment using our email address. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com. Call: 646-883-9095. The African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

AAACC Programs

Belly Dance Classes – contact Xonia Wilson at: 646-301-9438

Evening Line Dance Classes – contact Cynthia Dixon at: 917-903-7073

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

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

Secure your Vote! Early Voting starts October 26, 2024! —Michelle Marbury

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 Westchester County Executive, Mr. George Latimer, for coming to our meeting and answering our questions.

Halloween Candy Collection – We will be accepting candy donations for distribution on Halloween in the Building 10 Association room (located in the rear of Building 10B) on the following dates, Saturday, October 26, from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. and Wednesday, October 30, from 5 p.m.-7 p.m.

Halloween Candy Giveaway – The Halloween candy giveaway will be held on Thursday, October 31, from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. in the Building 10 Association room.

Vote – We have an especially important election on November 5. The last day to register to vote in the November 2024 election is October 26. To register to vote or request an absentee ballot, go to www.vote.nyc for more information. Early, in-person voting will begin on October 26.

Tip of the Week (Compactor Room) – Please keep our compactor rooms clean. Failure to clean up spills will result in vermin on your foor and/or your apartment. All boxes should be broken down or taken to the basement and placed near the Ash Cart room. All large items such as furniture must be taken to the basement and placed near the Ash Cart room.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety Department at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718-879-6311.

Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help is 988. You can call or text. Someone is available 24 hours a day.

Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com or drop a note in the suggestion box in the laundry. We are also on Facebook, “Building 10 ABC Association.” Like our page and get notifed of all the happenings in and around Building 10.

We would like to wish all who are born this month an incredibly happy birthday.

Celebrating an anniversary this month? Happy anniversary!

To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery.

To all who have lost a loved one recently, we offer our deepest condolences.

“In every day, there are 1,440 minutes. That means we have 1,440 daily opportunities to make a positive impact.”

Have a great week.

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Section 5 Fridge – Savoring the Season

Did you know that every season brings an abundance of flavors and textures to your palate where you can enhance your recipes by simply adding tasty seasonal fruits and vegetables. Just visit the Co-op City Fridge in Section 5 on Saturday mornings and join our “produce party.” Pick up a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables from our dedicated volunteers. Just bring a bag or your shopping cart and join us by the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center for Teens. You never know what the season brings! Have some time to volunteer? Come and join the movement! Help us fight to “Drive Out Hunger!” Register/volunteer: @grassrootsgroceryny or drop us a note via email: coopcitycommunityfridge@gmail.com.

–Yolanda Ramirez

African-American Association Open Mic Night

Photos by Yolanda Ramirez

Open Mic was bangin’! There were Belly Dance and Salsa demonstrations, poets and rappers, line dancers and great singers, too. New crafty and artsy members, and a wealth of participants and spectators. Join the African-American Association for their next Open Mic: November 16, from 4-8 p.m.

Photos submitted by Michelle Marbury

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, retirees and friends.

We hope this article will fnd everyone safe and doing well.

Hunterdon Hills Playhouse – Trip is today, Sat., October 19, the bus will pick up in front of H&R Block and will leave promptly at 9 a.m. The estimated time of return is 6:00 p.m. with drop offs at Einstein, Asch and Dreiser Loops. Wind Creek Casino – Seats are still available. Bethlehem, PA on Fri., Nov. 15. Tickets are $65 with a $25 slot play giveback. Final payment for this trip is due on Oct. 23. The bus will pick up in front of H&R Block and will leave promptly at 8:30 a.m. Return drop offs at Einstein, Asch and Dreiser Loops. Serita will be available in Room 19 to accept payments on Wed., Oct. 23, from 1-3 p.m. She can be reached at (347)-564-5722 for additional information.

Fundraiser – The Scholarship Committee will be holding a fundraiser Cake Sale on Election Day, November 5, in Room 19, to beneft their scholarship fund. Mouthwatering homemade cakes (including coconut, chocolate, and pineapple upside down cake), sweet potato pie, brownies and a variety of cupcakes will be on sale. Please support us and stop by Room 19 in the Dreiser Loop Center, before or after you vote. Bakers, volunteers and donators for this fundraiser, may contact JoAnn Harris at (718)-379-2298.

Annual Holiday Luncheon – Tickets are now available for our annual holiday luncheon to be held on Dec. 12 at the beautiful Marina del Rey from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tickets are $110 and include transportation (provided on a frst paid frst seated basis). Questions may be addressed to Daisy Young at (917) 292-7010, Jay McKenzie at (201) 310-2972 or Ted Byrd at (917) 797-9230.

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

Condolences – Please continue to keep the family of our honorary member, Eleanora Jones, in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve her loss.

Good and Welfare – Continue to keep George Crouch in your thoughts and healing prayers. Please notify Lorraine Parker at (718)-671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths.

Membership Committee – Annual membership dues are $25. Personal checks payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” can be mailed to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Questions may be addressed to Mary at (718) 655-9170.

General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 6 at 1 p.m. in the Dreiser Center Auditorium C. Please mark your calendars accordingly and plan to attend.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. How many informative facts about Breast Cancer do you know? Are you ready to take on the challenge? Remember, it’s okay if you don’t get everything correct; this quiz aims to test your knowledge and help increase your awareness about Breast Cancer.

1) Breast cancer can only occur in women. True/False. 2) A lump in the breast is the only sign of breast cancer. True/False. 3) All breast lumps are cancerous. True/False. 4) Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast cancer. True/False. 5) Mammograms are recommended for women starting at age 40. True/False. Answers: 1. False. 2. False 3. False. 4. True. 5. True.

While breast cancer is predominantly diagnosed in women, men can also develop the disease. Although rare, male breast cancer occurs in approximately 1 in 833 men. Genetics, age, and hormonal imbalances can contribute to the risk in men. Awareness is crucial for both genders, as early detection signifcantly improves outcomes. A lump is a common indication of breast cancer, but it is not the only one. Other potential signs include changes in breast size or shape, dimpling or puckering of the skin, changes in the texture of the breast tissue, unusual discharge from the nipple, or persistent pain in the breast or nipple area. Regular self-exams and clinical screenings are vital for identifying any unusual changes. Most breast lumps are benign and not cancerous. Common non-cancerous conditions include cysts (fuid-flled sacs), fbrocystic changes (which can cause lumpy or tender breasts), and fbroadenomas (solid, noncancerous tumors). However, any new lump or change in the breast should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out the possibility of cancer and ensure appropriate monitoring or treatment.

Research indicates that breastfeeding may lower the risk of developing breast cancer. The protective effects may arise from hormonal changes during breastfeeding, suppressing ovulation, and reducing menstrual cycles over a woman’s lifetime. Additionally, breastfeeding contributes to a mother’s overall health and encourages bonding, emphasizing its benefts.

Most health organizations recommend that women begin annual mammograms at age 40. This screening method is effective in detecting breast cancer early when it is most treatable. However, women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may need to start screening earlier. Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine the best screening schedule based on individual risk. Understanding these key points can help promote breast health awareness and encourage proactive early detection and prevention measures. Regular check-ups, self-exams, and knowledge of one’s body are essential to breast health.

Diane Cooper

Goose Island Seniors

Resort World Casino – in Monticello, NY, Thu., Oct. 24. Price: $70. Bonus: $25 slot play and $15 for food. Balance due. Bus pick-ups: Einstein Loop at 8:45 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 9:15 a.m.

Motown Shop – at Paramount Theater in Peekskill, NY, Sat., November 2. Price: $125, includes dinner and a show. Call: 646-579-1701.

Shopping Trip – Lancaster, PA, Sat., Nov. 13. Price: $135, includes lunch at Miller’s Smorgasbord, Tanger Outlets and more. Call: 646-579-1701.

Wind Creek Casino – in Bethlehem, PA, Tue., Nov. 19. Price: $70. Bonus: $25 slot play. Balance due, Wed., Oct 30.

Motown Holiday Party – Windows on the Lake in Long Island, Thu., Dec. 12. Wait list only. Price: $145; $50 deposit to hold a seat on the bus. Balance due, Wed., Nov. 13.

Holiday Toy and Coat Drive – at Section 5 Center, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm 39; Dec. 14, 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Price: $25, includes holiday brunch, entertainment and more. Call: 646-579-1701.

Goose Island Holiday Party – Fri, Dec. 20, at 1 p.m. in our club, Rm. 39 at 135 Einstein Loop, Section 5 center. Members only. Covered dish. Bring something or $20 at door.

2025 Hunterdon Hills Playhouse “Swing” – Thu., May 1, 2025. Price: $180, includes luncheon and show;

$50 deposit to hold a seat on the bus. Balance due Wed., March 26. Notary – with Yvonne Menefee. Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39. Call: 718379-9613.

Bingo – Mon., Wed., and Fri., 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Members only. Admission: $5 for 3 cards; $0.25 each additional card; 12 games and jackpot. Refreshments.

Game day – Tue. and Thu., 1 p.m.5 p.m. Dominoes, movies, socializing and more. Refreshments.

To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of October: Jacqueline Clark, Angela Geth, Connie Bridges, Pearl L. Crichlou (deceased), Iraida (Greta) Feliciano, Eleanor D. Minor, Sandy Roque, Eleanor Alberti, Wilhemina Thomas, Edith Rosado and Karen Hill.

We are collecting $30 dues for 2025. Down-payments excepted.

Sick and Shut-in – Mary Pilla, our former president, sends her love to everyone. Call her at 718-753-1816. Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, the Section 5 Community Center. Phone: 718-3799613, Stephen’s cell: 347-847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@ optonline.net. $StephenCarlSr. Good health to all.

—Stephen Roberts, Sr.

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

Bartow OAC Trips – Pick up at 10 a.m. for all trips except Ikea & Walmart, which are at 9:15 a.m. IKEA (Paramus NJ) – Wed., 10/23; Costco – Fri., 10/25; Walmart (North Bergen, NJ) – Tues., 10/29. Trips are $6, except for Ikea/Walmart which are $12. Please pay for the trips in the Bartow OAC Center.

Dreiser OAC, Fall Elegance Festival – Oct. 24, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Tickets needed for event.

Acupuncture w/Dr. Flora Lyando – Wed., Nov. 16. Call JASA NORC for an appointment, 718-3202066, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Bartow OAC, Drama w/Dazee presents “There’s an Amen in Every Corner” – a Daisy Windley Pro-

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

(NORC) Line Dancing w/ Bartow Swingers (ONLY) 12-1 pm., every Monday

Walk w/Odessa 9:30-10:30 a.m.

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

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

Adult Coloring, 12-1 p.m.

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

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

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

Bereavement Hour w/Dorine 1st Wed./month, 12-1 p.m.

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

Dominoes w/Jose, 1-2:30 p.m. Dinner Hour: 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Arthritis exercise w/Damion, 1011:15 a.m.

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

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

Card Games with Frankie, 1-2 p.m.

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

Massage Therapy

10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Manicure, 10:30 a.m-12 p.m.

Line Dance with Cynthia 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m.

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley 2-4:30 p.m., back of the JASA NORC office Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

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

Salsa with Rasheed 10 a.m.-11 a.m., will meet in Dreiser, 2nd Fl., Rm. 4

Word Games

10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Bingo on Saturdays

1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., in the back of JASA NORC of fce

duction. Fri., Nov. 22, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tickets, $7, on sale at Bartow OAC only.

Caringkind – The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving Rep. will be in the Bartow main office every third Mon. of the month, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., for Alzheimer & Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation & other services. Please call 646-744-2921 for an appointment.

Steel Drum Classes – JASA NORC office on Wed., 1-3 p.m.

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

Mindful Mornings Tai Chi

9-10 a.m.

Line Dance w/Sassy 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Book Club, 11 am.-12 pm.

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

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

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

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

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

Walk Club, 8:30-9:30 a.m.

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

Spring in Your Step Stretch & Tone w/Ola

10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 45

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chess Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Let’s Get It On Zumba 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

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

Notary JASA NORC office – Weds. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for an appointment. Notary Dreiser OAC – Weds., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-320-1345 for an appointment, Rm. 7

Notary Einstein OAC – Schedule appointments in Rm. 48, Thurs., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-671-5161. Please Call Einstein OAC for: Hair Styling, 1st & 3rd Wed. of the month, 9-11 a.m.: braids, haircuts, shape-up, twist, ponytails, curls and more. Facials & Manicure, every Mon., 1-3 p.m. Call 718-671-5161 for appointments.

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

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

Chair Yoga Class w/Charles, 10-11 a.m. (Virtual), Meeting ID: 863 1492 4183; Passcode: Dreiser23

Blood Pressure w/Linda, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Piano Sing Along Class, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2

Leisure Games, 1-3:30 p.m.

Smartphone & Tablet Literacy Class w/Julesa, 1:15-2:15 p.m.

Yoga Class w/Adira, 1:15-2:15 p.m., Rm. 2

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Art w/Lovie, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. (Twice a month)

Cardio Exercise w/Gail, 11 a.m.12 p.m., Rm. 2

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

Leisure Games w/Clara, 1-3:30 p.m.

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

Computer & Tablet Class w/Ralph (Virtual) 1:15-2:15 p.m.

Game Time: Jenga, 9-10 a.m.

Bead & Jewelry w/Brenda 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Blood Pressure w/LIU Nursing Student, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. C

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

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

Current Events, 9-10 a.m.

Fall Elegance Festival, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Aud. B

Trader Joe’s, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sewing Class w/Joy, 9-11 a.m., Rm. 2

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

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

Line Dance w/Sassy, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Bingo w/Gay Brown 1:20 p.m.-2:50 p.m., Rm. 4

Menu fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guests. All meals served w/margarine and fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice.

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066. Schedule subject to change without notice.

Payments for trips can be made where noted, Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.-12 p.m., and 2-4 p.m. only. Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation. Must be 60 or older to become a JASA participant.

Menu Fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. All meals served with margarine & fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice.

LUNCH: KOSHER: Cumin Spiced Rainbow Bean Salad, Whole Wheat Pita, Carrot Apple Raisin Salad NON-KOSHER: Caribbean Style BBQ Chicken, Sautéed Spinach, Roasted Potatoes

NO DINNER SERVED

LUNCH: KOSHER: Beef Pot Roast, Couscous, Roasted Eggplant; NONKOSHER: Spanish Style Roast Pork, Black Beans & Rice, Steamed Collard Greens

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Baked Breaded Fish, Classic Macaroni Salad, Beet & Carrot w/Dill, Mandarin Fruit; NON-KOSHER: BBQ Style Chicken, Roasted Potato, Sautéed Spinach, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: Baked Fish w/Garlic Sauce, Couscous w/Peas & Lemon, Garden Salad; NON-KOSHER: Curried Chicken Legs, Pasta, Baby Carrots & Parsley

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Falafel, Hummus & Pita Bread, Israeli Salad, Apple; NONKOSHER: Spanish Style Pork, Black Beans & Rice, Steamed Collard Greens, Orange

LUNCH: KOSHER: Pepper Flank Steak, Yellow Rice, Steamed Green Beans (Grab & Go); NON-KOSHER: Oven Fried Chicken, Baked Macaroni & Cheese, Steamed Collard Greens

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Pepper Flank Steak, Yellow Rice, Steamed Green Beans, Canned Apricots ; NON-KOSHER: Curried Chicken Legs, Pasta, Steamed Baby Carrots, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: BBQ Chicken Leg Quarters, Orzo, California Blend Vegetables (Grab & Go); NON-KOSHER: Fish w/ Mushrooms, Peppers & Tomatoes, Coconut Rice & Pigeon Peas, Normandy Blend

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: BBQ Chicken Legs, Orzo, California Blend Vegetables, Kiwi, (10 GRAB & GO) ; NON-KOSHER: Chickpea & Vegetable Curry, Quinoa, Steamed Broccoli, Banana

Saturday: Lunch served at 12:30 p.m. until fnished: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Roasted Turkey, Couscous, Roasted Eggplant, Banana

NON-KOSHER: Fish w/Mushroom, Peppers & Tomatoes, Rice & Peas, Normandy Blend Vegetables, Apple sauce

Building 33 Association

The Building 33 Association would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Shonte Armstrong and the “Home Team” for organizing the Section 5 Reunion last week. Everything was exceptional, and Mr. Cheeks’ performance was outstanding. We would also like to thank the DJs, caterers and everyone involved for making this fantastic weekend possible. Thank you all, again! Job well done.

However, I must mention two things. First, we were all gathered outside in the shopping center during the party on Saturday night. Despite the numerous trash receptacles available, garbage was still not properly disposed of. The remnants of the party—bottles, cups and various other items—were scattered everywhere. This is unacceptable! Second, on Sunday, a group of young men, who were not a part of the festivities on the greenway, were loitering under Building 33. When I left the greenway, they were gone, but they left all their trash behind on the ground and in the grass! My question is, why should anyone have to clean up after you? We are all adults and this is our neighborhood, our property and we are owners. You are too old for this kind of behavior! It is not a good look and should not be tolerated. Wake up, please!

G’mar Chatima Tova!

Remember, October is Breast Awareness Month. Be sure to perform your self-breast examinations. Additionally, if a mammogram is recommended for you, please make sure to schedule and attend the appointment.

Enjoy your week and walk good!

––Andrea D. Mayo

Section Five Association

Hello, neighbors. We trust your summer was good and all of you accomplished what you wanted to do. Kids are back in school. We wish the children a safe and peaceful learning environment always.

MetroCard Bus – The bus is scheduled to be at Einstein Loop Center from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on Wed., October 30, and Tues., December 30.

Voter Registration – The deadline is October 26 for individuals 18 and older to register for the upcoming general election.

Voters Guides – Please read your voter’s guide, which always has a lot of information to guide one in voting. Early voting begins October 26 through November 3; and our designated site is Dreiser Loop. Polling hour time and dates are in the Voter’s Guide, or you can check the Co-op City Times to be sure.

Apprenticeship & Career Day – Riverbay Corporation with Assemblyman Michael Benedetto present a long-awaited construction apprenticeship workshop, highlighting careers in commercial painting, decorating and much more. This career day will take place on October 23rd from 2-7 p.m. at Dreiser Auditorium A, B and C.

Fliers/Halloween – We will have safe trick or treating on October 31 from 4 to 8 p.m. in our lobbies via fiers posted of buildings and stores that will be participating. This is to prevent children traveling from foor to foor. Lobbies and stores will be designated via the fiers. Thank you, Ms. Tanya of Building 26 Association, for this creative idea.

SCRIE/DRIE – A Social worker of JASA, Julisa Grimes is available only once weekly, one must make an appointment by calling 929-399-1371.

The vice president of SFA, Ms. Carol Arthur, is available for information regarding 501c, OMNY Card and SCRIE/DRIE. She is able to offer assistance, and that all shareholders are eligible for the Star Program, but you must register.

We offer our sympathies and condolences to all families who lost a loved one.

We wish all the best of good health. Happy birthday wishes. One may reach Nelson Sweeting, president, at Section5association10@gmail.com, or 914-709-5395.

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

Overman

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Good day, neighbors. This weekend, we really got a taste of the weather that is around the corner and on the way. A big concern this week, we are once again being left out of the circle of “need to know.” Our corners, Broun Place and Bellamy Loop, have been dug up and drilled again (pictured), without letting us know. Why? We feel we have a right to know. We walk and cross there with carriages and shopping carts. Shouldn’t they share why our corners are dug up again?

Our Association hopes everyone received their issue of the Co-op City Times Call the following number to report non-delivery, 1-407-666-8317, Saturdays only, from 9a.m.-1p.m. The October 12 issue was jam packed with important community news. Cooperators, go back to last week’s issue and now thoroughly read Riverbay Director’s Claudia Sampson’s open letter on the issue of Riverbay Fund. Please make sure you understand what’s going on. As a cooperator of forty-fve years, I remember afternoon concerts and plays brought in by a community-minded Martha Howell and her assistant, Judy Bonus.

Vote in the upcoming presidential elections. First make sure you have registered properly and will not have to deal with a rejection. We always urge our neighbors to exercise their right to vote. You can mail it in, or you can vote in-person. If you have any questions, call an elected offcial like Mr. Jamaal Bailey or Mr. Mike Benedetto.

Garbage and disrespecting our grounds are a major problem. Teach your children to take pride in our streets and use the pedestrian waste cans. Bottles are not urinals, but some are using them as such and leaving them in the gutters. We need to get going on issues like the dogs, traffc, garbage, heat and pipe leaks that are of major concern. We urge you to patronize Dreiser Loop and Bartow stores. There are several new stores. They look forward to your patronage. Before you spend extra on travel, walk and browse, shop around. A store with stationery and electronic services is needed locally and we hope it happens.

Recycling bins are at the garages. Recycle your gently used things into the bins next to them. For Broun Place, it’s Garage 6. Today, I brought a load for recycling and saw the pickup truck emptying the bin.

Please keep your dog quiet. Leashing is required. Dog owners must clean up behind their dogs. To report a problem, CCPD’s phone number is 718-6713050.

Wise words for this week, “Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy,” Walter Cronkite, the renowned commentator and reporter, wrote that. Another great quote, “Life’s tragedy – we get old too soon and wise too late,” by Benjamin Franklin.

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors. Here we are and the brief wave of hot days has passed. We hope all had a safe and enjoyable summer. We are now entering the fall and looking forward to the beautifully colorful leaves.

MetroCard Bus – The MetroCard Bus will be at Einstein Loop from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on Wed., October 30, and on Tues., December 30, by the Einstein Community Center.

Register to Vote – Individuals 18 years and older may register in-person at 1780 Grand Concourse or call 718-299-9017 by October 26. Register online by October 26 or by mail before October 26. For anyone you know, please relay this message to register before the deadline of October 26.

Voters’ Guide – Please read your voter’s guide, which always has a lot of information to guide one in voting. Early voting begins October 26 through November 3; and our designated site is Dreiser Loop. Polling hour time and dates are in the voter’s guide, or you can check the Co-op City Times to be sure.

Two-Sided Ballots – The voter’s guide has details on the proposals that

New Yorkers will vote on in their ballot. We now have our Voter’s Guide and plenty of time to study and make the decision. You may take the voters guide with you to the poll site.

Fundraiser – We will screen the movie, “Hamilton,” and will start this showing at 2 p.m. The movie is three hours long and the cost is $5, which includes a hot dog, chips and a drink. Fliers are posted.

Halloween: Do not forget to bring your donation of candy when you attend the movie. Thank you in advance. Fliers will be posted.

Happy birthday to all in this month. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card; she is excellent in sharing goodwill. Also notify her of any illness, or if a neighbor has deceased or transferred to a nursing home.

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” –James Baldwin

––H. Overman

Building 13 Association

Please remember to get a permit if you are receiving deliveries or moving large items so that proper matting can be placed in the elevators. Shareholders moving in or out should have a permit. Additionally, moving can only be performed with a licensed mover from Monday – Friday until 4 p.m. Contact CCPD.

Local Law 157 regarding gas detectors was discussed at our recent meeting. Installment is an additional protection measure and your compliance ensures our safety. This work must be completed by May 1, 2025. Safety Director Mr. Barzelatto explained how and when gas detector installation will proceed. Please make arrangements to be available.

Additional suggestions were received from the members for possible capital improvements, and they will be shared with Management. Reminder: there are items that are deemed urgent and there are also local laws that must be addressed frst and foremost, and those will receive priority.

We are still accepting donations of wrapped candy. The notice is posted in the bulletin board advising you to contact our vice president to make your donation. Thank you to those who signed up to assist distributing treats during Halloween in the lobby. Our sergeant-at-arms Annice Bailey will contact you. We are tentatively scheduling the time for 4-7 p.m.

Reminder: Building 13 Election District is 065 and Assembly District 82. Our voting poll site is Co-op City Dreiser Loop Community Center.

Early Voting Dates: Saturday, October 26, to Sunday, November 3. General Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, and polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, contact NYC Bronx County Board of Elections; Phone: 718-299-9017 or e-mail: VOTE.NYC.

When voting, please fip the ballot over and vote on the six proposals. Proposal 1 is statewide and proposes adding anti-discrimination provisions to the State Constitution. Proposals 2 through 6 address Charter Revisions and could signifcantly impact the responsiveness, transparency and accountability of city government to New Yorkers. The City Council has a page that in a very succinct way tells you about the proposals. Go to: https://council.nyc. gov/2024-ballot-proposals.

RSVP by October 25, 2024...

Section 2 and Riverbay Community Relations Murder Mystery Party on November 2, Dreiser Center, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. All are invited. If you have questions, you can contact Jewel, 917-488-5237; Tanya, 646-748-3142; Leslie, 718-3201370; Jackie, 917-217-6363, and Tamira King at community@riverbaycorp. com.

“It’s better to walk alone than to walk with a crowd going in the wrong direction.” –Malcolm X

Visit our Facebook Page at Building 13 Association Inc.

Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, 718-320-1370, or Wendell Mattison, V. P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.

––Leslie Peterson

NAACP

The NAACP marches to defend democracy and combat racism and discrimination in communities across the country. We meet on the fourth Sunday of the month at 3 p.m.

The NAACP Co-op City Branch October offce hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The NAACP is non-partisan, not endorsing a candidate nor party, but the organization is political and wants people to know how to navigate the process.

Monthly Branch Meeting: Our branch will meet October 27, in Einstein Center, Rm. 36, at 3 p.m. We will review the next steps in the Branch Election process and discuss the General Election Ballot proposals. The Nomination Committee is accepting Candidate Consent Forms for branch offcer positions. Completed forms must be returned to the NAACP offce located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36 in the Einstein Center, by October 21. Open foor nominations will be accepted at the October membership meeting. If you need to update your email and/or cell phone number or need a Candidate Consent Form, please contact the offce. All Branch electronic elections will be conducted by the national offce. Our election is scheduled for November 12, 2024, between 2 p.m.-8 p.m.

Important Reminder: Make sure you are registered to vote. Go to VOTE. NYC or call 1-866-Vote-NYC. Flip the ballot and complete both sides. Voters will have the opportunity to decide 6 ballot proposals. Proposal (1) is statewide and proposes adding anti-discrimination provisions to the State Constitution. Proposals 2 through 6 address Charter Revisions and could signifcantly impact the responsiveness, transparency, and accountability of city government to New Yorkers. NAACP suggests YES to proposal 1.

• Proposal 1: Protecting New Yorkers’ Fundamental Rights

• Proposal 2: More Enforcement & Regulations by Sanitation Agency

• Proposal 3: Wasteful Spending, Slower Results & Less Budget Transparency

• Proposal 4: Blocking Public Safety Laws

• Proposal 5: Meaningless & Misleading Capital Planning Changes

• Proposal 6: Changes to Unrelated City Operations

Back To Civics Workshop: The next Civic Engagement Workshop series, facilitated by Civic Engagement Chair Felix Omozusi, will be on Tuesday, October 22, at 7 p.m., in the NAACP offce located in Einstein Center, Rm. 36. You don’t have to be a member to attend. RSVP by calling the offce or by email.

Town Hall: The NAACP Co-op City Branch in collaboration with the NCNW Co-op City Section, NAACP Williamsbridge Branch, NCNW North Bronx Section, and several sororities invite you to “Elevate Your Vote,” a Town Hall event on Saturday, October 26, at Community Board 12, 4101 White Plains Road, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Our membership campaign is ongoing. Become a member, gift a member-

ship or upgrade your membership. Take your advocacy further by joining in the fght for our sacred right to vote. Annual membership: Adult, $30; Youth, $10; or Silver Life, $750. Make check/mo. payable to: NAACP Co-op City. Mail to: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36, Bronx, NY 10475. To leave a message, call the offce phone at: 718-320-3210 or email: naacpccity2210@ gmail.com

––Brenda Brown

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry – 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). The pantry is open on Thursday, and Friday from 11a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. All guests must present a pantry card, at least four to six clean shopping bags with handles and a shopping cart to receive food. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. This distribution site is open Thursdays from 11 a.m.1 p.m. The groceries are supplied by and distributed by Black Forum. Religious affliation is not required. Masks are a must!

Note: Because of budget limitations, only guests living in zip codes 10475 and 10465 will receive service, although 10465 guests can only get a one-shot package of groceries. Also, new client registration and re-certifcation for returning guests into the pantry program is currently closed.

Farmers Market Coupons – Show us your farmers market magic! Did you use your Senior Farmer Market coupons or Health Bucks this year? Share your delicious creations and healthy recipes. We want to celebrate the amazing things our community is doing with fresh, local food. Your photos could be featured in a city campaign! Let us inspire others to enjoy the benefts of farmers markets together. Email your pictures to coopcityblackforum@gmail.com or text them to 929 464-5520. Let us know what name you would like attributed to the picture(s).

Fundraising Trips – Black Eyed Sally’s boarding times: 920 Baychester Avenue stop boards 8:40 a.m. and leaves 9:00 a.m.(sharp); Asch Loop stop boards 9:05 a.m. and leaves 9:15 a.m. (sharp); Einstein Community Center stop boards, 9:30 a.m. and leaves 9:45 a.m. (sharp). Please be early and remember your assigned seat to ensure a quick departure. We look forward to seeing you!

—D. Illis

Cooperators United

Greetings, fellow Building Association and Townhouse Association presidents.

Our next Cooperators United membership meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 28, at 7 p.m., in Bartow Center, Rm. 31. Please join us for membership information and engagement. The annual organization membership dues per Building and Townhouse Association is $20. Your support matters.

At our September 30th meeting, your ideas, suggestions, and comments were solicited in order to steer the direction of our organization for the year ahead. We prioritize your participation. It was requested that you email your thoughts and/or comments to us as soon as possible so that the Executive Board would have the opportunity to review and discuss submissions before our next meeting. This past week, an email reminder was sent out requesting your input. To date, we have yet to receive your input.

Our Executive Board would like to review and discuss your suggestions/comments prior to presenting them back to the body along with our own ideas for our path going forward. Necessarily, our Cooperators United Executive Board will begin to move forward to develop our organizational goals and agenda for the year ahead.

We look forward to seeing you at our next, and future, meetings.

We would like to invite guest speakers to help us navigate issues that matter to you and to your members. For example, NYPD Neighborhood Coordination Offcers (NCO) for better security, to augment our own CCPD resources, or elder care resources for support with our responsibilities for parents, spouses, other family members, etc. We can reach out to informed representatives for other concerns we may face. Please let us know.

If there are changes to your Building Association/Townhouse Association president data, please provide us with the updated contact information for our mailing list.

The upcoming elections require our attention as a community. Please vote. Please encourage your family and your Association members to vote.

––Linda Collins

Building 24 Association

Dear cooperators, we haven’t had a meeting lately, but we have been busy. The Construction department answered our plea to have the cracked and broken concrete in the walkway under the building, known as the portico, repaired. You might have noticed their workers laboring for about a three-week period, flling cracks and breakage in the concrete. We had been asking for those safety hazards to be addressed for quite a while and fnally got some help in doing that. The workers had a limited amount of time to be here, but their repair work addressed most of our concerns. Thanks to all those workers!

The holiday season is now here, and we’ll be celebrating with Halloween treats in the lobby, our Thanksgiving Raffe and the collection for our great building workers. This year, thanks to Sonia and Joe from the 21st foor and our lobby decorating genius, Jabiel, we got the lobby decorated for Halloween, too. We’ll also display children’s artwork for the holidays in the lobby.

Recently, I, along with two other members of the Coalition to Save Affordable Housing, attended a CTSAH meeting in Manhattan where people from other Mitchell-Lama affordable housing around the city met and discussed some of the issues their co-ops are facing. The struggle to maintain affordable housing goes on and requires all of us who enjoy the benefts it brings to take more interest in the challenges we face here and become more involved in our community. Attend an Open Board Meeting, join a committee, follow our issues here, attend Building Association meetings and vote in our elections.

If you have any questions, you can reach me at 718-869-6375.

Bruce Silberman

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

120 Erdman Place (back of 27B’s lobby), Bronx, NY 10475.

The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to donate, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-ofCo-op-City, or mail to the Traditional Synagogue, located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B.

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After service, we serve a hot/cold Kiddush meal. Entrance to our synagogue for Saturday services is on the side door of building 27B.

General Information:

The Traditional Synagogue located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone #: 718-379-6920. Offce hours are Thursday and Sunday from 12-2 p.m. Please call the offce before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the offce, please leave a message.

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, October 19, at 7:013 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, October 25, at 5:40 p.m.

Good and Welfare

The congregation welcomes donations in honor or memory of a loved one. Any amount is greatly appreciated. For information about the congregation and its services, please call 646-285-1206.

To all members: Happy birthday to Marilyn Sherman, Bruce Gitelson and all our members who will be celebrating their birthday in October. 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

Community Protestant Church

Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family welcome you to worship with us. We are located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469. You may contact us by phone: 718-862-9172, fax: 718-6714416, or email: Administration@thecpcchurch.org.

Worship Schedule

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

Every Wednesday – “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer,” 12 p.m. on the conference call line (712) 432-3900, Access Code: 343284#

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

Save the Date:

Sunday, October 27, 11 a.m. – Missionary Anniversary; 3 p.m., Nurses Anniversary

48th Pastoral Anniversary Celebration Weekend, Saturday, November 2, 1-5 p.m., “A Black & White Affair”

Sunday, November 3 – 11a.m., Pastoral Anniversary Service. Guest Preacher, Rev. C.L. Washington III, Pastor Pilgrim Baptist Church, Nyack, NY

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15

135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 33, Bronx, NY 10475

Mateo 11:28: “Venid a mí todos los que estáis cansados... y te daré descanso.”

Paz de Dios sea con ustedes.

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 les hace una cordial invitación a la comunidad hispana a congregarse con nosotros.

Si usted está buscando una iglesia para adorar a nuestro Señor Jesucristo, si se siente solo, herido, deprimido o si necesita liberación nuestras puertas están abiertas para recibirlos. Cristo está dispuesto y es capaz de liberarte y sanarte.

Él nos ama tanto que dejo su Trono de Gloria para salvarnos.

Juan 14:2: “En la casa de mi Padre muchas moradas hay; si así no fuera, yo os lo hubiera dicho; voy, pues, a preparar lugar para vosotros.”

Nuestra iglesia se encuentra en el centro comunitario de 135 Einstein Loop, Salón #33.

Servicios Ofrecidos:

Lunes – Servicio de Oración por teléfono: 9 p.m. (564-888-5521; Código: 696248)

Martes – Estudios Bíblico por Zoom: 8 p.m. (3447367643; Código: 3jEJ2W)

Jueves – Servicio de Oración por teléfono: 9 p.m. (564-888-5521; código: 696248)

Viernes – Estudio Bíblico por Zoom: 8 p.m. (3447367643; Código: 3jEJ2W)

Domingos – Servicio de Adoración: 11:30 a.m.

La Santa Cena es el 1er Domingo del mes

Que Dios le bendiga y recuerda que Cristo te ama.

Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all who are weary... and I will give you rest.”

May the peace of the Lord be with you.

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 cordially invites the Hispanic community to come gather and worship with us.

If you are looking for a church to worship our Lord and Savior, if you feel alone, wounded, depressed, if you need liberation, our doors are open to receive you. Jesus is willing and able to free you and heal you.

He loves us so much that he left his Throne of Glory to save us.

John 14:2: “In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.”

Our church is located at 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, Rm. 33.

Services Offered:

Monday – Prayer Service by phone, 9 p.m. (564-888-5521; Code: 696248)

Tuesday – Zoom Bible Study, 8 p.m. (3447367643; Code: 3jEJ2W)

Thursday – Prayer Service by phone, 9 p.m. (564-888-5521; Code: 696248)

Friday – Zoom Bible Study, 8 p.m. (3447367643; Code: 3jEJ2W)

Sundays – Worship Service, 11:30 a.m.

First Sunday of the month: Holy Communion

God bless you and remember, Jesus loves you.

—B. Santana

As we commemorate Pastor Appreciation Month, we want to honor the man, Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens, Sr., who willingly serves and shepherds our congregation in grand style. When we show honor, it is not only the pastor who is blessed – the congregation is blessed, too. Our pastor’s tireless efforts and sacrifces do not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for his unyielding love and support for our church. In celebration, we invite you to join the CPC family for an intimate and elegant “Black & White Affair” at the F&J Pine Restaurant, also known as The Pine, located at 1913 Bronxdale Avenue, here in the Bronx, on Saturday, November 2, from 1-5 p.m. Tickets are limited and are $130. This noteworthy event promises to be a joyful afternoon flled with good company, good music, and good food. We hope you will join us.

To Sister Gay Brown and all our sick and shut-in members, please know that we are praying for you and for your speedy recovery. We also extend our heartfelt condolences to all who are in a season of mourning. Happy Birthday wishes to everyone celebrating their birthday this month.

“Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” 1 Timothy 5:17

—Lexa M. Mingo

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow at 8 a.m. in-person only and at 11 a.m. in-person and on Zoom. Sunday School classes for all ages will be held at 9:30 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level), Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone: 718-320-3774. Email: ccbc135@optimum.net or coopcitybc@ gmail.com. Website: www.coopcitybaptistchurch.org. 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, Meeting ID 962 343 0102#, Password 788175#. You can also go to YouTube, search for Co-op City Baptist Church and watch us there.

The church’s Free Conference Call Line dial-in number is 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

Rev. Williams asks everyone who calls into the Sunday Worship service to use Zoom through your computer or dial-in using the Zoom information shown above.

This week’s events: Wednesday Bible Study Class at 1 p.m. on Zoom Prayer Warriors Prayer Service on Thursday at 12 p.m. on the Church Conference Call Line; on Thursday at 2 p.m., the Circle of Grace Knit and Crochet Group will meet in person at the church, in Room 51. Friday Mid-Morning Prayer Service at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Friday Evening Prayer Service – are all on the church Conference Call Line.

The next CCBC Food Giveaway will be distributed on Friday, October 25, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop. Please remember to bring your own bag, and perhaps a cart. Some products can be heavy.

The Co-op City Baptist Church’s Youth and Young Adult Ministry, in conjunction with Latrell Antonetty and the historic Kelly Temple, presents “A Bronx Christmas Story.” Back by popular demand. The musical is returning for three performances on Friday, December 20, at 7 p.m., Saturday, December 21, at 5 p.m. and Sunday, December 22, at 4 p.m. The performances will be held at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ, 8 East 130 Street, New York, NY 10037. Ticket prices: for children (4-16) is $17; adults $30; VIP: $50. The vendor three-day pass is $125. All payments can be made for any of our ticket features on Eventbrite or call 347-460-8140.

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

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

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.

––Marilyn C. Williams

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section – This is a reminder that we will be having our membership meeting tomorrow, October 20, the third Sunday of the month, because our delegates were attending the NCNW 61st National Convention in Baltimore, Maryland last Sunday (pictured below), when we usually have

Bethune,” or on Instagram at “NCNW Co-op City.” We would love to have you join us.

Health Committee – Our Co-op City Section will be joining with the North Bronx Section and the East Bronx Section of NCNW on October 27, for the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. We will be meeting at 8 a.m., at Bay Plaza Shopping Center to begin our walk at 9 a.m. Come out and join our teams. Come join our Sisterhood Saturday Walks each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the greenway close to 177 Dreiser Loop. Our Health Committee sponsors these walks together as a shared mission of health, unity and Black girl power. For further information, contact Farah Martin at 917-806-2534 or Keisha Keelen at 917697-4854.

our meetings. Members will be receiving emails with pertinent information from our president. If you are not yet a member but would like to attend our meeting, please contact us at www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com, on Facebook at “NCNWCoopcity

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (con’t) – Breast cancer screening means looking for signs of breast cancer before there are any symptoms or problems. A mammogram is used for breast cancer screening. A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. It is the best way to fnd breast cancer early. This is when treatment may work best. You should get a

Building 29 Association

On Thursday, October 10, Building 29 held its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Building B Association room.

Our featured speaker was Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton.

He gave a dynamic speech to a packed room. His emphasis was to take Co-op City into the future (“A New Day at Riverbay”).

He gave out a handout, indicating the three important components reporting to Riverbay: Management, the Board of Directors, and the shareholders, implying that each had equal “weight.” (A few cooperators felt that shareholders did not have equal infuence as the other two.)

Mr. Walton emphasized that each shareholder has a vested interest in Co-op City, and that they are not renters. He added that everyone should be familiar with the names of Board members (most people in the audience could only name one or two).

He also pointed out that cooperators must say something in order for Riverbay to do something and asked that cooperators go through proper channels frst (give the team a chance frst) before appealing to higher channels.

Other points made:

1) Read the Management Report in the CC Times

2) Management does not set policy–the Board does (and that is one main reason to vote in our elections).

3) Peace offcers (CCPD) are still short of the 93 positions needed, but this is being worked on.

4) Open Board meetings are currently scheduled to be held every 3rd Wednesday of the month, at rotating locations (Dreiser, Bartow, and Einstein).

Also, at the meeting, our new president, Michael Adolphus, mentioned two things:

1) “Treats and Sweets” harvest celebration, to be held on Oct. 30, from 6-8 p.m. in the association room. Come meet your building team! Also, there will be food and a DJ. Also, get acquainted with your fellow shareholders.

2) There will be a free Health and

Healing Event on Nov. 16 (10 a.m.3:30 p.m.) at the Church of the New Vision in Einstein Loop. There will be biometric health screening, glucose testing, blood pressure, and more...plus a gospel concert!

This event was a tremendous success last year. Go to my.questforhealth. com, or call Pastor Adolphus at 315639-7587.

Finally, cooperators talked about a number of issues: parking problems, potholes, the laundry room, the destruction of basement hallways, etc. Kim Canty brought up an excellent point, and that would be for the building president to give a report of the issues addressed in the monthly meetings with CSO (and other meetings, such as budget).

Well, this is the end of this long report.

Please, don’t forget to VOTE (or register, there is still time, but not much. You can go online and print out a form before the deadline)

This election will take us in two very different directions, depending upon the outcome! Most importantly, encourage your 18 and older children to vote. It will be their world, and it is also a civic duty. Peace and good health to all.

Katharine Wood

screening mammogram every other year starting at age 40. Getting a mammogram at least every two years is important because: 1) most people with breast cancer don’t have a family history of the disease; 2) your risk for breast cancer increases as you age; 3) breast cancer may not cause any symptoms; 4) fnding breast cancer early can save lives.

Social Justice Committee – NCNW Co-op City Section in association with NCNW North Bronx Section, NAACP Co-op City Branch, NAACP Williamsbridge Branch, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Tau Chi Sigma Chapter and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter will present a program, “Elevate Your Vote, Protecting Democracy, Empowering Communities” on Saturday, October 26, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The program will take place at the Community Board 12 building, at 4101 White Plains Road, Bronx, NY. This will be an in-person program taking place on the frst day of early voting in New York State. We will be discussing voter registration information such as the rights of ex-felons to vote and the necessity of living at your present address at least 30 days prior to the election. Also, we will be discussing the proposals that are on the other side of each ballot.

––Joyce Howard

Co-op City Toastmasters

Autumn greetings to all. It’s a wonderful time of the year: Do engage, do enjoy, do visit us.

Storytelling: The one skill that everyone needs today is “storytelling.” Why? We want our messages to be remembered, and we want people to take action after they hear our story. The only way that will happen is if we deliver the right story to the right audience. Co-op City Toastmasters, which meets every Thursday night, 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. in Rm. 5, second foor of 177 Dreiser Loop, Co-op City Community Center, offers free business networking events along with business networking training and coaching in partnership with [a] dynamite networking group. Here visitors will learn from experts about the right way to talk about themselves while also succinctly including a beneft statement along with a clear Call to Action (CTA). Any message without a clear CTA is a wasted message since the receiver or reader, watcher or viewer is not anchored as well since the audience doesn’t do anything with that information. Join us for this informative session.

Co-op City Toastmasters (CCTM) also trains you on public speaking with impact! These are free (open to the public) events every Thursday night immediately after the business networking event. The meeting has three parts: table topics, which is the improv section, followed by prepared speeches and speech evaluations. Everyone is treated to a ringside view on the best way to speak with impact while also hearing the feedback that speakers receive from their evaluators, which provides actionable information that is relevant to everyone to use immediately for immediate growth and gains.

Co-op City Toastmasters and Bronx Advanced Speakers (BAS) are part of Toastmasters International, a 100-year-old non-proft that is present in over one hundred countries worldwide. There are more than 50 Toastmaster clubs in NYC alone. To learn more about us, visit the CCTM website: https://3824toastmastersclubs.toastmastersclubs.org or text our President Rajiv Jadhav at 646-249-3561 for immediate assistance and all social media links. Pres. Andrea Haye, 347-922-2377.

Meeting Schedule

BAS: The Bronx Advanced Speakers (BAS) meets once a month on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 5. All are welcome to come and participate. Advanced and keynote speakers are invited to share expertise.

Lite refreshments and a congenial atmosphere are always provided for members and guests to enjoy; to paraphrase founder Dr. Ralph Smedley, people learn and retain much more when they are having fun.

CCTM: Co-op City Toastmasters meets every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. (frst Thursday is hybrid) in Rm. 5.

This meeting follows the free business session.

• Oct. 31 (no meeting), Happy Halloween

• Nov. 28 (no meeting), Happy Thanksgiving Announcements: Oct. 19th: Defensive driving session. Call 347-927-1069 to preregister.

See our TM Table at the JASA/Montefore Health Fair, 177 Dreiser Loop, 2nd Fl., 10 a.m. Get your raffe and win a prize. Your future is bright.

––Rajiv Jadhav

Top: Marvin Walton shares information with cooperators. Bottom: Board members, Joan Macafity, President Michael Adolphus, Cynthia Dixon and Katharine Wood. Absent: Jackie Gomez.

Photos by Roberto DeJesus

TM Mel Pemberton as evaluator

Circle of Christ Church/Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

Serve First, Lead Later

Some people fnd their value in positions and titles. The problem with this thinking is that positions and titles invariably change. More importantly, one should consider what position of trust God has placed them in. Proper service is seen through integrity and submission.

Jesus said in Luke 16:10, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.”

David demonstrated a heart of service by caring for sheep, honoring his father, providing for his brothers and protecting his nation. God brought him up through degrees of service. We generally do not begin at the top, but in lesser service, we train for greater service.

(1 Samuel 17:17) “Jesse said to his son David, Take this ephah of roasted grain and these ten loaves of bread for your brothers and hurry to their camp. They are with Saul and all the men of Israel in the Valley of Elah, fghting against the Philistines.”

David had the lowest job. He could not even go to war. There was nothing glorious in what he did until God pulled him up. His years of training in the feld would be vital in the battle. His work was interrupted to serve his brothers, but it was a divine interruption.

(1 Samuel 17:20) “Early in the morning, David left the fock with a shepherd, loaded up, and set out as Jesse had directed. He reached the camp as the army went out to its battle positions, shouting the war cry.”

David received instruction and went early to fulfll it, demonstrating obedience. He did not abandon his sheep; he sought help for their care. How sad when we do not advance our ministry but block the work by carelessness. The servant must make provision for others.

(1 Samuel 17:28) “When Eliab, David’s oldest brother, heard him speaking with the men, he burned with anger at him and asked, Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came to watch the battle.”

Eliab had been rejected by God when David was anointed by Samuel, but now Eliab rejects David. In service, we can expect rejection, mockery, and even jealousy. Keep serving. Jesus experienced it, and so did David, Joseph, Gideon, Moses and many other faithful servants. God will vindicate you!

Schedule

First Sunday of the Month Bilingual Communion Service at 10:30 a.m.

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

Tuesday – Prayer at 10:30 a.m. and Bible Study at 12 p.m.

Wednesday – Nonperishable food distribution from 12-2 p.m.

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

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

Saturday – Women’s Fellowship, second Saturday, 12-3 p.m.

Young Adults, third Saturday, 12-3 p.m.

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

Blessings in Christ,

—Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle

177 Dreiser Loop, second foor, Rm. 2. Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The congregation and clergy of St. Thomas invite you to worship with us. Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20)

On October 27, there will be a meeting of the members of The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle, Inc. The meeting will begin at 11 a.m., with a brief service. The purpose of this meeting is to conduct the election of church offcers and clergy, as well as to vote on other church business matters. All members are encouraged to attend.

This Sunday, we will conclude our seven-week series of sermons on the “I am” statements of Jesus. The topic for this Sunday will be: “I am the vine.” (John 15:5) Rev. Orietta Brewer will deliver the sermon. We thank Rev. Brewer for organizing this study of our Lord.

The Twenty-First Sunday after Trinity, October 20, 2024

• 11 a.m. – Communion Service.

• Fellowship with light refreshments following the service.

Scripture Lessons:

• Ephesians 6:10-18

• Matthew 10: 1, 16, 24, 40, 42, 37-39 and, 24:13

Prayer Intent: Perseverance

“Lord of all power and might, who art the author and giver of all good things, may our hearts be so flled with gratitude to thee that we may continually increase in true religion, and from thine omnipotence may we draw strength to persevere; through Christ our Lord. Amen.”

Rev. Dorian Miceli

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, Bible-centered congregation with spirit-flled worship. We offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and service to God and our community. Services are held in person at 2350 Palmer Avenue across from Building 30. Parking is available. You can also participate with us via Zoom (904 4685745) or Facebook live (UMC Coop City). —Pastor, Rev. Sara Girón-Ortiz

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34 NIV

In times of uncertainty and stress, it is common to worry about the future. Worrying appears to be a natural response to life’s challenges. However, there is evidence that worrying is more than just a waste of time; it affects our physical, mental, and emotional health, our relationships with God and others, and it hinders our spiritual growth. You might ask, “Aren’t some forms of worry healthy?” Certainly. Some aspects of life should prompt us to worry in a healthy way, helping us remain diligent and prudent. Unlike excessive worry, which can impede our productivity. Healthy concerns can lead us to constructive actions.

In the verse above, note that Jesus acknowledges that each day will have its own challenges, implying that we will all face diffculties—some days more than others. Worrying does not help us escape this reality; rather, it makes us less able to cope.

So, what should we do to live in a way that minimizes our worries about tomorrow?

Listen to Jesus. As Christians, we are called to pursue God’s kingdom and His righteousness frst. When we focus on earthly matters, such as wealth and basic needs, we are more likely to worry. Conversely, when God’s kingdom and righteousness are our priorities, He promises to meet all our needs, freeing us from fear and anxiety. The reason for this is that God desires us to trust Him and depend on Him moment by moment with all our needs. While life’s challenges may cause us to worry, we must remember that He loves us as His children, promises us daily bread, is by our side in every situation, and renews His mercy each day. Let us choose to entrust our future into God’s hands. Draw near to Him with prayer and thanksgiving. Live in the present moment and enjoy His presence and daily blessings.

Come and receive a blessing. All are welcome!

Tuesday: English Bible Study at 6 p.m. via Zoom (904 4685745)

Thursday: Bilingual Prayer Service, 10 a.m.; Food Pantry: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Upcoming Events – Save the Dates

• Sunday, October 20 – Bilingual service at 11:15 a.m.

Church meeting after service. Bring food to share.

• 50th Anniversary of the Church/Thanksgiving Celebration at Pine Restaurant, Bronxdale Ave., Saturday, Nov. 23, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Fee applies. See Karen or Jennie for more info.

—Grace Abadia

Church of the New Vision

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

Our scripture verse for 2024 is: Hebrews 12:2 NIV, “Let us fx our eyes on Jesus, the Author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the Throne of God.”

Sunday service at 11 a.m. All are welcome. Masks required.

Noon Day Prayer Line, 12-12:30 p.m., Monday–Friday.

Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study – 7 p.m.-8 p.m. The conference line number: 646-769-9900; Access Code: 3099388# Please mute your phone.

October 13, 2024, Worship Service Theme: “God’s Will and Call for His People Until, the Lord Jesus Comes.”

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22 NLT, “Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.” (Continue reading 15-22).

Save the Dates

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month – Breast Cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States. We encourage all women, ages 40+, to make appointments for their annual mammogram. Ribbons and literature will be in the church lobby. Please wear your pink ribbon to help support the cause.

Saturday, November 2 – Building Fund Banquet at Eastwood Manor, 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Adult, $100/Youth, $50. Make your check or money or-

der payable to: Church of the New Vision. Contact: Sadie James, 718-652-8943, or Loretta Scott, 718-671-2623. If you are unable to attend, you may bless the event with a love offering of $50. Saturday, November 16 – Church of the New Vision and Amen Ministries, Inc. invites the community to a “Health & Healing” free event; includes refreshments and a Gospel Concert, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Registration required. Go to www. my.questforhealth.com to create an account. (Registration Key: Choose Healthy Health; Referring Church: Amen Ministries Inc.) For more information and assistance in registration, contact Pastor Adolphus: amenministriesrev314@gmail. com/315.639.7587. Health navigator: Shamika Adolphus-chl.amenministries@gmail.com, or Loretta Scott – ljscott_2000@yahoo.com.We look forward to you registering and attending. July 6-13, 2025 – Celebrity Beyond, eightday/seven-night-cruise leaving from Miami. Ports of call: Nassau, Bahamas, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. Inside Stateroom, $2656 pp; Ocean View, $2847 pp; Infnite Veranda, $2785 pp. A deposit of $500 per stateroom to reserve your room is due by October 13. Includes: Cruise, Air*, Taxes, Fees, Transfers, Wi-Fi, Drink Package and Gratuities. (*Air rates may differ based on departing airport.) Contact: Hermena Smith at 718-708-5035 or info@churchnewvisionbx.org to request payment link.

We continue to pray for speedy recovery for the sick and shut-in, condolences to families who lost loved ones, and good health and wellness for all. Your contributions of tithes and offerings can be mailed to: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 753037, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

Thank you.

—Brenda Brown

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church Pentecostal

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. Email: stjosephe@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-320-0844. Priest-in-charge, Fr. Simeon Johnson; cell phone: 917-227-4303.

Greetings! Good news! We are ﬁnally back to normal. We now look forward to welcoming everyone to our newly renovated church space. In-person worship service for the Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, October 20, at 9 a.m., as well as via teleconference. Please also remember to tune in for the usual teleconference weekday prayers at 12 p.m. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 508-898, followed by the # sign.

Just a reminder about your pledge cards. If you have not yet completed your pledge cards, kindly do so as soon as possible. These cards reﬂect our ﬁnancial pledge and are used to update our proposed budget as well as our offer to volunteer our time and talent where and when possible.

Save the Date: All men in St. Joseph’s as well as the community at-large are invited to celebrate Men’s Day with us at the church on Sunday, November 10. We will have a guest speaker, and refreshments will be served at the end of the service,

Fundraising Activity: Our last fundraiser for the year is a bus trip to Caesar’s Casino, Atlantic City, on Saturday, November 30. The trip includes a day of fun, games, shopping and relaxation on the boardwalk. A few seats are still available on the Deluxe motor coach which leaves from Dreiser Loop (front of the Rehab Center) at 8:45 a.m. A donation of $65 is required and payable in two installments. The ﬁrst installment of $35 is due now and the balance of $30 is due by October 30. If you have any questions, please contact June at 347-457-8249. If June is not available, please see Janicia (Jan) in church on Sundays or on Wednesdays, between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. No refunds after October 30. If you have any questions, please speak to June.

Condolences: Our thoughts and prayers go out to all our bereaved members, families and friends who have recently lost loved ones.

Sick and Shut-in: We extend our well wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery. If possible, please visit them, call them on the phone or send them a card.

Birthday Greetings: Best wishes to everyone who is celebrating a birthday this month.

We at St. Joseph’s are collecting food (cans and dry goods) for the pantry at Grace Episcopal Church, West Farms. If you can, please contribute for those in need.

Grace and Peace!

Merville Chambers

Tabernacle

100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, P.O. Box 204, Bronx, NY 10475. You are invited to join our worship services on the following days: Sunday: Sunday School begins at 10:30 a.m., worship service begins at 11:45 a.m.

Wednesdays: Prayer and fasting service will be held from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bible Study and prayer meeting will be held Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. Fridays: Worship service and Bible study starts at 7:30 p.m.

All night services are held on Zoom, call: 646 9313860, Meeting ID: 85748454513, Code: 850684#

Focus: A Transformed Life

The believer’s life is transformed by the power of God to a conquering lifestyle through Christ Jesus.

(Romans 12:1-2) “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacriﬁce, holy acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:10-18)

“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love, in honoring preferring one another. Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing instant in prayer. Distributing to the necessity of saint given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you, bless and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another, mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil, provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.”

The plan of God for the salvation of mankind spans all of time, bears the price tag of the blood of Jesus, and offers all people a brand-new start. Paul expounded on these marvelous truths in the Book of Romans. We have read of the hopeless plight of sinful mankind, of the miracle of deliverance and of the joyous promise of restoration. In Romans 12, Paul gave some very practical direction about the application of this truth to our daily lives. It is essential that we have an understanding of foundational doctrines such as faith, justification, and divine guidance. But the Scriptures do not leave us to live our lives in the realm of the theoretical. This life-changing gospel calls us to a place of commitment that will affect the way we live and how we interact with other people. It is important that we study the Bible every day, and when we mediate on the word, we will find grace, strength, joy, peace to overcome the trials of life. God’s grace is sufficient to keep us every day. Our duty is to remain faithful to God in whatever area He has called us to work. Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.

––Rev. R.

Sibblies

Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

IMPORTANT SCAM REMINDER

DO NOT divulge personal identiﬁcation, including date of birth, address, Social Security number, bank accounts, debit or credit card numbers or passcodes to anyone you do not know and trust.

• Report any unusual or suspicious persons or activity to CCPD.

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

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

• Never leave your car or apartment door unlocked.

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

• Remember: You can make anonymous calls to CCPD.

Emergency: 718-671-3050 or 9-1-1 • Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc

If you have knowledge or a concern of

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.com/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); Email: reports@ lighthouse-services.com; or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the email or fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

Dear