Finance Provides Guidance to Complete DTF-505 Form for Tax Transcripts
BY ROZAAN BOONE
In response to calls from shareholders for assistance completing the DTF-505 form to verify incomes, the Riverbay Finance department has provided a sample of how the form should be filled out (see page 5).
Last week, the Finance department reported that NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) completed its review of the 2020 Income Affidavits filed by shareholders and identified accounts whose Income Affidavits do not match information filed on their 2020 income tax return with the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance.
Open Board Meeting in Bartow on Nov. 20
An Open Board meeting has been scheduled by Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders for Wednesday, Nov. 20, starting at 7 p.m. Shareholder who would like to address the Board and Management are asked to arrive early and sign up to speak at the Gallery Session, which will be held from 7-7:30 p.m.
This meeting will take place in Room 31 at the Bartow Center. Prior to the start of the Board meeting, shareholders will be able to meet with Riverbay department heads and representatives from 6-7 p.m. to discuss any pertinent matters relative to the respective departments.
In a televised message to shareholders currently airing on the Riverbay Crawler, channel 12 (MATV) and channel 591 (Altice), Board President Saunders says that the Board is available to listen, represent and make decisions that benefit all resident of the community.
“Our community is stronger when we work together,” said Board President Saunders. “My goal is to ensure your voices are heard and community needs are met. If you have thoughts, suggestions or challenges, the Board is here to listen.” The Board President goes on to encourage shareholders to attend the monthly Open Board meetings and sign up to speak at the Gallery Sessions.
These shareholders are now required to provide additional verification. They must obtain from the NYS Tax Department certified transcripts of the 2020 New York State Income Tax Return for the person/s within their household that HCR flagged. To obtain a transcript of the tax return, form DTF-505, which was mailed with the notification letter, must be completed and returned to the NYS Tax Department, Disclosure Unit, WA Harriman Campus, Albany, NY 12227-0870. (Please note, the return address is on page 2 of the DTF505 form. Turn to page 5 to see sample of page 2 of the DTF-5050 form.) Shareholders submitting a DTF-505 form should also send a copy of photo ID, such as a valid Driver’s License or non-driver ID.
The Board President’s message to shareholders is also available on the corporation’s YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/3USdCj4.
See meeting Agenda below.
Once the tax transcript is received from the state Tax Department, it must be submitted to Riverbay Finance department as soon as possible. If all of the information on the shareholder’s Income Affidavit matched what was reported on the 2020 NYS Income Tax
(Continued on page 5)
Grounds Department Brings Holiday Cheer with Festive Decorations
With the 2024 Holiday Season imminent, the Riverbay Grounds department began decorating the Bartow, Einstein and Dreiser malls and community centers with festive lights and decorations. Crews have been busy hanging up holiday lights around the columns and trees, and positioning lit-up reindeer, angels and Santas for the enjoyment of shareholders and visitors to Co-op City. (See page 12 for more photos.)
FDNY Urges Caution as Drought-Related Brush Fires Erupt Across NYC
BY DANIELLE CRUZ
As New York City continues to experience an historically dry fall, the FDNY is urging New Yorkers to exercise caution following an unprecedented spike in brush fires throughout the five boroughs.
According to the FDNY, from October 29 to November 12, firefighters responded to 229 brush fires across the city, the highest number of brush fires recorded within a two-week period in New York City history. Out of those 229 fires, 67 occurred in the Bronx, 56 in Queens, 51 in Brooklyn, 24 in Manhattan and 17 in Staten Island.
“Remarkably dry conditions in October and so far in November have resulted in an historic amount of brush fires over the last two weeks, and we need the public to remain vigilant,” said FDNY Commission-
er Robert S. Tucker. “Due to a significant lack of rainfall, the threat of fast-spreading brush fires fueled by dry vegetation and windy conditions pose a real threat to our members and (Continued on page 4)
45th Pct. Community Council Meeting held in Co-op City, Nov. 7
BY BRANDI SIMPSON
The 45th Pct. Community Council held a meeting last Thursday, November 7, in the Bartow Center, Rm. 31, which was attended by several Co-op City shareholders who raised a variety of concerns.
Among the topics addressed at the meeting, the majority centered on car thefts, illegal parking, ghost plates, and traffic streaming from the Mall at Bay Plaza during the holiday season.
Kicking off the meeting, Bob Bieder, president of the 45th Precinct Community Council, introduced Captain Anthony Lombardo from Group 22, a criminal investigation group within the Internal Affairs Bureau that covers multiple precincts within the Bronx, to address the audience. Captain Lombardo encouraged shareholders to contact IAB to report any allegations of misconduct or crime committed by an officer to assure that all complaints are investigated and taken seriously, whether big or small. To contact the Bureau, shareholders can call 212-CORRUPT or 1-800-PRIDE. Shareholders can also call these numbers to report other agencies, such as EMS or a firefighter, and IAB will forward the complaint to the proper channels.
Mr. Bieder announced an upcoming community
(Continued on page 4)
Public Hearing Scheduled to Discuss Expansion to Grocery Delivery Program
BY BRANDON ORTIZ
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) is hosting an online public information session on December 3, 2024 to discuss a potential expansion for the Groceries Delivery Program.
DOHMH’s session will start at 10 a.m. and conclude at 12 p.m. Visit tinyurl. com/2p8c7acv to participate or observe the online session. Individuals who are unable to attend can still submit a comment online before December 3 at tinyurl.com/2be7mnnj.
For those unfamiliar, the Groceries Delivery Program, also known as Groceries to Go, helps eligible New Yorkers experiencing food insecurity by providing credits that participants can use to purchase groceries online and have them delivered. Program credits can also be used to cover tips, service fees and delivery costs.
Below is a quick rundown on the eligibility requirements for Groceries to Go, according to the DOHMH:
• An individual must be a New York City resident who reports a risk of food insecurity
• An individual must be a New York City Health and Hospitals Care member
• An individual has a reported diagnosis of diabetes or hypertension
• Only one member per household can be enrolled in the program
• Program credits can be used to purchase grocery items approved by the DOHMH
Eligible households with one to two people can receive a monthly credit of $110, whereas households with three or more people can receive a monthly credit of $270. Participants can receive a 50% discount when using their program credits to buy fresh produce.
As for the latest changes to the Groceries Delivery Program, the main one is designed to expand the eligibility of the program so more individuals can qualify. Specifically, “when screening for program eligibility, the Department (DOHMH) will stop using questions validated to identify people at risk for food insecurity and instead use questions validated to identify individuals experiencing food insecurity,” DOHMH said.
Another amendment will change how the program removes participants and sets a new limit on the total amount of time an individual can be enrolled in the program. Instead of removing a participant following six months of inactivity, the program will now remove participants following three months of inactivity. Participants will also now be limited to a maximum of 18 cumulative months
enrolled in the program. For individuals who exhaust the 18-month limit, they can reapply for the program following a minimum of another 18 months and depending on available space in the program at that time.
The final amendment sets a cap on the total amount of program credits a participant can hold at one time to a maximum equivalent of three months. In other words, a house with one to two people can have a maximum of $330 worth of program credits, and a house with three or more can have a maximum of $810 in total program credits.
Shareholders currently experiencing food insecurity can also take advantage of several food distributions that occur around Co-op City. In Section 5, shareholders can visit the Section 5 Food Pantry, located next to the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center for Teens, on Saturdays for free distributions of fresh and healthy produce. At the same location, shareholders can also utilize the community fridge that is available 24/7. JASA hosts a monthly food distribution for seniors in partnership with Common Pantry. For shareholders in Sections 1-4, they can visit the Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry located at 920 Baychester Avenue in Building 1A on Thursday or Friday from 11:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Black Forum also provides a second food distribution for Section 5 shareholders at the Co-op City United Methodist Church, located at 2350 Palmer Avenue, on Thursdays from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Distribution of unsolicited advertisements in Co-op City
Co-op City is private property and therefore prohibits distribution of unsolicited advertising material to shareholders’ homes and/or property, including cars parked in the development’s eight garages.
If you witness anyone depositing or distributing advertising material on Co-op City’s property, please call Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Be prepared to give the location and description of the person(s) leaving the material.
All unwanted, unsolicited advertising material should be disposed of properly and not thrown on the ground causing litter.
Thank you for your cooperation.
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Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway
Council Member Rafael Salamanca, Jr. will be distributing free Thanksgiving turkeys while supplies last on Tuesday, Nov. 19, at the Co-op City Greenway (concrete stage, off of DeKruif Place), beginning at 11 a.m. First come, first served.
“Breaking
Bread, Building Bonds” Holiday Community Gathering
Bronx Community Affairs Bureau, in collaboration with the 45th Pct. Community Council and Riverbay Corporation, will host a Holiday Community “Breaking Bread, Building Bonds” program on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2-5 p.m. in the Dreiser Auditorium. Admission is free but reservation is required.
This program is a citywide initiative from Mayor Eric Adams to cultivate the diversity of the city and bring New Yorkers together to learn about common bonds, share cultures and traditions and remove silos among communities.
To RSVP, call/text Det. Rivera at (917) 742-2889; Off. Marcus at (917) 704-1343 or Off. Reyes at (917) 484-8872. For disability accommodations, call/text Off. Reyes at least 72 hours prior to the event.
Truman HS Open House This Weekend
Harry S. Truman High School, at 750 Baychester Ave. in Education Park in Co-op City, has Open House events this weekend:
• Sat., Nov. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Sun., Nov. 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
During the Open House, visitors will have the opportunity to tour the school facilities, learn about the school’s academic programs, meet with teachers and staff, and ask questions about the admissions process.
To RSVP, fill out the online form at https://forms.gle/Rz346jzPMHaHg22g9, or contact the school directly at 718-904-5400.
Post 1871 Commemorates Veterans Day 2024
BY P.M. CAMPBELL
American Legion Post 1871 held their annual Veterans Day Commemoration on Saturday, November 9, with a day of activities right here in Co-op City.
The event started at 10 a.m. in the Einstein Center in Section 5 with a fitness class by Orisha Wholeness Foundation and a resource fair before the commemoration ceremony. The Commemoration was supported by Riverbay Corporation, the office of Councilmember Kevin C. Riley, the mayor’s Public Engagement Union, Bronx Community Board 10, NYC Department of Small Business Services, Department of Veterans Services, Veteran Advocacy Project, and the Hair Madness Foundation, which donated fifty service coupons.
Codrington.
The main event started with a prayer and Pledge after the posting of colors by the Truman High School AFJROTC. Commander Codrington gave the audience a short history of Veterans Day, its origins as “Armistice Day,’ and the present importance of honoring returning soldiers. He then introduced guests from the broader American Legion of New York as well as community officials in attendance, including Riverbay’s Executive General Manager Marvin Walton, and Riverbay Board Assistant Secretary Mary Pearson.
“To the veterans who live here, to the veterans who live far, we say thank you, thank you, thank you for your services, and we look forward to the bright future,” said Mr. Walton.
“It’s a holiday to remember veterans who need help, so the American Legion Post 1871 is getting that help through its partnerships,” said Post Commander Antonio
A meet & greet followed shortly after closing remarks when people were served with food and refreshments.
(See more pictures on page 12.)
NYCPS Middle and High School Admissions Are Currently Open
BY BRANDON ORTIZ
New York City students looking to apply to a public middle or high school still have time to complete their application before the upcoming deadlines.
Middle school applications close on December 20 and high school applications close on December 4. Students can expect to have their middle school offer on April 9, 2025 while those applying to high school will hear back about their respective offer a month earlier, on March 6, 2025.
This year’s application process for both middle and high school introduced new changes in an effort to provide families with more options, better access and offer mre support for prospective high school students. For the middle school application process, students will now be able to apply to middle schools outside of their respective school district. Students will now also have the ability to apply to as many high schools as they wish. The final change impacted the high school admissions process by introducing a new online tool to help students and families understand their chances of receiving an offer from a particular school.
NYCPS’ latest changes were a result of collective feedback from various stakeholders such as parents, the Community Education Council, the NYCPS Chancellor’s Parent Advisory Council, school leadership and researchers. Families also provided feedback on their application process experience via the annual NYC School Survey. NYCPS cited receiving over 5000 responses on the application process for middle and high schools.
Under the new change to the middle school application process, families can apply to any middle school in the city and have the chance to be accepted at a school outside of their school district provided the school has space. Students will still retain priority in their respective school district. Applicants should keep in mind that “most programs will also have a district priority, which means that seats will first be filled by students and residents of the district,” as explained by NYCPS.
Roughly half of the 1,120 parents who responded to a 2023 middle school admissions survey said they would want the option to choose schools outside of their child’s
school district.
The new high school admissions change will expand the prior max of 12 schools per applicant to an unlimited amount of high school choices. Applicants do not have to list more than 12 schools on their application, but now have the ability to add more schools, if they choose.
As for the new online tool available for students applying to high school, the feature is available in the MySchools
(Continued on page 6)
Fires ––– (Continued from page 1) our city. I want to once again urge New Yorkers to follow these important safety tips to reduce the chances of a brush fire occurring during this extraordinarily dry period.”
The city is currently experiencing the second-longest rainless streak in recorded history. Due to this dry spell, the reservoirs that provide the city’s drinking water are at about 62% capacity, compared to a typical 79% capacity. This prompted Mayor Eric Adams to issue a citywide drought watch on November 2, urging New Yorkers to conserve water and directing government agencies to begin planning and developing water conservation plans.
These dry conditions, combined with windy weather, have allowed for brush fires to start and spread quickly. Brush fires can happen anywhere and are uncontrolled fires that burn rapidly through dry grass, shrubs and other vegetation.
The FDNY also released a public service announcement highlighting key safety tips for New Yorkers to keep in mind to help reduce the risk of brush fires:
• Be mindful of smoking. If you smoke outdoors, always dispose of your cigarette butts and matches properly. Discarded lit cigarettes can ignite dry grass and start a fire quickly.
• Stay on designated trails when enjoying the parks. This will help protect surrounding vegetation and minimize the risk of accidental fires
• Fireworks are illegal across New York City and should never be set off.
• Throw out trash properly. Items like glass bottles can concentrate sunlight and spark fires, while trash itself can be a fuel for flames.
• Call 911 immediately and move to a safe distance if you see fire or smoke.
On November 9, Mayor Adams also announced a citywide ban on grilling in city parks in an effort to prevent possible brush fires.
“We need all New Yorkers to take common sense steps to prevent brush fires,” said Mayor Adams. “Getting through this drought will take all of us working together, and every drop counts, so let’s keep doing our part to save as much water as we can.”
If the dry conditions continue, the city may escalate the drought watch to a drought warning or, subsequently, a drought emergency. If a drought warning is issued, this would prompt water suppliers to activate their local drought plans and local agencies would ramp up their water conservation plans and prepare for a possible emergency. If a Drought Emergency is declared, mandatory water restrictions would be put in place in order to preserve water supplies.
The last time New York City was under a drought watch was in December 2001, when reservoir levels dropped to 44% capacity. The drought watch then
45th Precinct ––– (Continued from page 1) event happening in the Dreiser Loop Auditorium next Sunday, November 24, from 2 to 5 p.m. The “Breaking Bread, Building Bonds” event is part of a citywide initiative from Mayor Adams, which will allow shareholders to sit down with community members from nearby neighborhoods, including Zerega, Westchester Square, Throggs Neck, and City Island, to build bonds, discuss what’s happening in their respective communities, and what issues they are currently facing.
Bieder also highlighted recent events held by the 45th Pct. Community Affairs Unit, including the “Basketball with a Cop” event, which was held here in Co-op City at Truman High School. Prizes were given out to students, including a tablet and a $50 gift card to a local eatery.
Deputy Inspector Johnny Orellana hosted the remainder of the meeting, reporting the latest crime stats and answering shareholders’ questions. Within the 45 Pct.’s jurisdiction, crime in the seven major categories is up just under 3% for the year and 14% for the 28-day (four-week) period. Breaking down those stats further, felony assault is up 44%; burglaries, 170%; and auto theft, 23%. In Coop City specifically, within the 28-day period, there were two robberies, three felonies assaults, two burglaries, eight grand larcenies, and fourteen auto thefts.
While those numbers are high, Inspector Orellana pointed out that there is a longer explanation for those figures. “Now when I give you this percentage, there’s more to it. So, the devil is in the details,” he said. He went on to explain that, specifically in the burglary crime category, the 170% increase mostly consisted of burglaries of commercial vans.
One of the first topics brought up was the concern of car thefts in the garages in Co-op City. One shareholder reported that three cars were stolen from Garage #2 and stressed the idea of returning attendants back to the garage as a form of protection. While the 45th Pct. is not responsible for returning the attendants, Inspector Orellana did acknowledge the rise of car thefts in the garages, announcing that there were eight thefts within the last month. In response, the 45th Precinct, along with CCPD, gathered intelligence and set up multiple operations to “stop the bleeding,” which has been successful. Additionally, officers have a photo of a potential suspect and are using facial recognition to identify that suspect, as well as identifying some license plates connected to the thefts.
Vehicle safety measures were also discussed. Inspector Orellana encouraged shareholders to do their part by investing in preventative measures, especially for shareholders with a Honda, which is a popular choice for auto thieves. Some of these measures include placing trackers in the car and purchasing a steering wheel club. These measures will help deter thieves and help police track a car that has been stolen. The precinct is also hoping to bring back its “Catalytic Converter VIN Etching” event as well as host another air tag and club lock distribution event. All updates on those events will be posted on the 45th Pct. Facebook and X accounts. Also discussed was illegal parking. Dave Roush, a teacher at Truman High School, thanked officers for helping to enforce parking rules and deterring a majority of illegal parking offenders in the Truman parking lot. He also raised an issue with the 311 ticket app, stating that he has opened multiple tickets, with most being closed without action. Inspector Orellana verified this is a common complaint regarding the 311 app. He assured everyone that the system is being monitored, and
escalated to a drought warning in January 2002, and then a drought warning in April 2002. During that time, the city imposed mandatory water conservation measures, including bans on washing cars, spraying sidewalks with hoses and watering lawns. The city even issued fines to violators.
According to the Department of Environmental Protection, some ways that shareholders can help conserve water during the drought watch are:
• Reporting open fire hydrants and street leaks to 311. An open hydrant can release more than 1,000 gallons per minute, which wastes 1.4 million gallons of drinking water in a 24-hour cycle.
• Don’t flush the toilet unnecessarily. Toilets are, by far, the main source of water use in a home, accounting for nearly 30% of an average home’s indoor water consumption. Each flush can use 1.6 gallons, with older models using as much as 6 gallons.
• Take shorter showers, saving five to seven gallons a minute. When taking a bath, fill the tub only halfway and save 10 to 15 gallons.
• Don’t run the tap while shaving, washing hands, or brushing teeth. Faucets use two to three gallons per minute.
Keeping reservoir levels high is even more important this time due to the city’s current repair work on the $2 billion Delaware Aqueduct Repair Project. Officials had announced on September 30, 2024 that the Delaware Aqueduct, which supplies about 600 gallons of water a day to New York City, was going to be shut down temporarily, as part of a major repair project to address massive leaks in the aqueduct system.
As a result, the DEP announced that they were going to increase the amount of drinking water coming from the Croton Watershed, which provided only 5% of the city’s water in 2023. However, the watershed has seen below-average rainfall over the last few months, receiving only .81 inches of rain this past October, compared to historical averages of 3.81 inches of rain for the month. The DEP said they will continue to analyze current and forecasted reservoir levels for their impacts to the project.
“New Yorkers come together in times of crisis, and right now, amidst the dryest spell in recent memory, we need New Yorkers to do just that and conserve as much water as possible,” said Mayor Eric Adams. “We’re going to do our part as a city as well, which is why I’m ordering our city agencies to update their water conservation plans and prepare to implement them imminently. By starting to save water now, we’re doing everything we can to make sure that we can water our parks and fill our pools come summer, and to stave off a more serious drought emergency.”
he often reaches out to callers with tickets marked “closed” or “unfounded” to verify those issues were truly solved. Inspector Orellana also gave out his number and encouraged community members to call him directly or the local NCO officers.
Some shareholders shared Mr. Roush’s concerns. In addition, a member of the United Methodist Church shared his frustration about cars illegally parking and blocking both the church and garage entrances. Another shareholder complained about cars illegally parked in the M.S. 180 and M.S. 181 parking lots and on the grass heading towards the greenway. Triple parking on both sides of Givan Avenue, right behind the Section 1 Stop & Shop, was another concern. NCO officers took down the complaints and plan to look further into each.
As the holiday season approaches, traffic streaming from the Mall at Bay Plaza was another top issue. One shareholder discussed the challenges she faces trying to navigate through the heavy traffic to get home, particularly coming off the exit from the Hutchinson River Parkway North heading towards Bartow Avenue. She pointed out the lack of traffic control devices, Stop signs and lights, causing a build-up of traffic as those cars combine with the traffic getting onto the Hutchinson River Parkway South, and with numerous drivers disregarding proper lane rules.
Mr. Bieder confirmed this has been an ongoing issue for many years. Currently, Community Board 10, the Department of Transportation (DOT), and Riverbay Corporation are working together to resolve this issue. Anyone with ideas on how to solve this issue, aside from enforcement, should reach out to Community Board 10 to be added to the agenda of their next meeting. Inspector Orellana added that more traffic enforcement will be deployed to the area, and a traffic intelligence report will be submitted to the DOT.
Another issue raised at the meeting was ghost plates. One shareholder reported seeing many in the area along with blank and scrubbed plates. Currently, the 45th Pct. is participating in various highway and bridge operations to crack down on ghost plates, giving out numerous summons. Officers are also trained to look out for certain key characteristics to identify those using ghost plates on the streets.
Inspector Orellana also gave updates on recent instances that have happened in the community. Officers are still investigating and working to catch the suspect who robbed the stationery store in the Bartow Mall. In addition, officers have identified the suspect who threw gasoline on a fellow passenger on an MTA bus in the area. This suspect is a repeat offender, and the NYPD is currently on the lookout for him.
Community Affairs Detective Hannah Rivera was honored during the meeting. Detective Rivera received the “Cop of the Month” award for her dedication in bridging the gap between the community and NYPD. Rivera and her team have put on many events throughout the community, including the previously mentioned, “Basketball with a Cop,” at Truman High School and recently hosted the precinct’s “Fall Festival” where community members were able to enjoy pumpkin and face painting, food, and activities, including multiple bounce houses, pony rides, and a petting zoo. Detective Rivera will also receive the “Cop of the Year” award next month.
return, including names, Social Security numbers and incomes listed, the Income Affidavit was approved and no further action is required.
If you received a notification letter and must now obtain a transcript from NYS Tax Department using form DTF-505, your Income Affidavit could have been flagged for several reasons:
• Income reported on the 2020 Income Affidavit is less than income reported
on the 2020 NYS Income Tax return by $500 or more
• Shareholder or occupant listed on the Income Affidavit did not file a 2020 state Income Tax Return
• Social Security number provided was not found in the NYS Taxation and Finance’s files
• Social Security number was found in the state Taxation and Finance’s files, but the name does not match
In some cases, the NYS Taxation and Finance Department could not read what was written on the Income Affidavit or information was submitted incorrectly or is missing.
Children or dependents requiring verification can use the tax transcript of the parent or guardian who claimed them as dependents.
Shareholders who received income verification letters have until December 31, 2024 to respond by bringing or mailing proof to the Riverbay Finance department. Failure to respond will be assumed to indicate unreported excess income and will result in a retroactive maximum surcharge of 50% being applied to their monthly maintenance accounts for the period starting July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021. There is also an additional $150 administrative charge.
Admissions –––
(Continued from page 3) portal, a central online hub for the NYCPS application process. The feature provides some more transparency on an applicant’s chance of being accepted at a particular school using three bars that resemble a cell signal icon on a mobile phone. One bar represents a low chance of receiving an offer, two bars represents a medium chance of receiving an offer and three bars represents a high chance of receiving an offer to a program, according to NYCPS.
Under the hood, the new transparency tool produces the offer estimates using several parameters. Specifically, the tool considers program admission priorities, available program seats, student academic performance and whether an applicant would count towards a general education seat or a student with a disability seat.
Families who have any questions regarding the middle school or high school admissions process are encouraged to call NYCPS at 718-935-2009. For those who prefer email, contact MSEnrollment@schools.nyc.gov with any middle school admissions questions, or contact HSEnrollment@ schools.nyc.gov with any high school admissions questions.
Be sure to subscribe to the official Co-op City YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/ 3h6CrF7. Stay informed!
CCPD Reminder
Shareholders ordering online packages are strongly encouraged to utilize alternate delivery locations supplied by online services. Direct delivery to lockers, hubs, and secure alternate delivery locations will decrease inconvenience, reduce crimes of opportunity and provide a reliable method of securing delivered items.
To reduce package thefts, alternate delivery methods are strongly encouraged.
Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 28
Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.
Building 28 A, B, C 100, 120, 140 Einstein Loop
Current Lease Expiration Date: January 31, 2025
New 3-Year Expiration Date: January 31, 2028
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
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Editor-in-Chief
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Managing Editor
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Jennifer Piovanetti
Operations Manager
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Multi-Media Advertising Manager
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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.
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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
Inside Co-op City’s Public Safety Department
BY SGT. JOSEPH VARGAS
Co-op City’s Public Safety Department (CCPD) serves as the core of safety and community wellbeing within our neighborhood. CCPD is far more than a traditional law enforcement agency. With a dedicated team of New York State Peace Officers, CCPD combines traditional law enforcement with a commitment to community engagement, bringing reassurance, support, and security to residents and visitors alike. Community Presence and Crime Prevention
With a focus on both visibility and engagement, CCPD officers patrol all areas of Co-op City—from residential buildings and playgrounds to shopping areas and parks. This presence is not only to deter crime but to offer a reassuring, accessible face to our neighbors, making sure everyone feels safe. Whether it’s greeting shareholders, assisting visitors, or being a visible force at community events, our officers are integrated into the very fabric of Co-op City life.
More than Law Enforcement
Our officers aren’t just enforcing laws; they’re trained community advocates. CCPD officers participate in and organize a variety of community support initiatives, including toy drives, health fairs, and self-defense classes. We provide emergency medical response, help locate missing children, and work closely with local schools and organizations like JASA to address the needs of our most vulnerable residents. In times of emergency, such as fires, our officers are often among the first responders on the scene, working alongside the FDNY to ensure every resident is evacuated and accounted for safely.
Our team is ready to address any situation that may arise in Co-op City. This could range from mediating after-school disputes, addressing quality-of-life issues like package thefts and noise complaints, to providing assistance to individuals in crisis. CCPD officers handle everything from enforcing NYC
Responsible Use of eScooters
If you rent an eScooter, be sure to leave it in a location that does not interfere with pedestrians’ access to sidewalks and walkways. Be considerate and responsible. Return eScooters to a docking area or place it off of sidewalks and walkways to ensure pedestrian safety.
Public Safety Blotter
November 3 – November 9, 2024
November 03, 2024
120 Aldrich Street – CCPD responded to a call about a dispute in progress. Upon arrival, CCPD observed two cooperators cursing at each other and causing a disturbance. Both cooperators were issued Community Complaints for Anti-Social Behavior, and each received a Criminal Court Summons for Disorderly conduct.
120 Alcott Place – A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package had been removed from the lobby area by an unknown person(s) without her permission.
November 04, 2024
100 Bellamy Loop – A cooperator reported leaving their laundry unattended and an unknown person(s) removing their laundry from the dryer without their permission and leaving the area.
November 06, 2024
95 Co-op City Blvd. – A Riverbay contractor reported that an unknown person(s) removed various work tools from an unsecured company truck without permission and left the area.
November 07, 2024
2063 Bartow Avenue – A Rite Aid supervisor reported that an un-
dog laws to aiding in the recovery of lost pets— even capturing the occasional stray animal. For more serious offenses, we are trained and authorized to make arrests, seize illegal substances, and remove firearms from our streets.
Adapting to the Neighborhood’s Needs
Our community policing model means that CCPD officers aren’t just enforcing the law.
CCPD officers receive comprehensive training in mental health crisis response, CPR, First Aid, crime scene preservation, defensive tactics, and de-escalation techniques. Many members bring additional expertise from prior service with other law enforcement agencies, covering areas like substance abuse detection, juvenile justice, and specialized community policing tactics. This experience, combined with continuous training, enables CCPD to balance modern policing with empathy and local sensitivity. Officers are prepared to observe and report, warn and admonish, issue criminal summonses, and make arrests when necessary.
For CCPD, it’s not just about enforcing the law—it’s about fostering a safe, welcoming environment. We’re here to listen and serve. Co-op City is among the safest neighborhoods in New York City, thanks to CCPD’s proactive approach to public safety. We are here not only to protect but to communicate openly with our community. We strive to foster trust and partnership through a blend of modern policing methods and community engagement, reinforcing a sense of safety, order, and mutual respect throughout Co-op City.
If you have questions, concerns, or simply want to learn more, please reach out. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety is here for you, ready to assist in any way possible.
Alert: Graffiti vandalism
If you witness anyone tagging or spraying graffiti on Co-op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at 718-671-3050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety.
OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY
known person removed beverages from the store shelves and then fled the store without paying for the items.
November 08, 2024
105 Dreiser Loop – An elderly cooperator reported that an unknown suspect had taken her purse without her permission while she was sitting by the bus stop. The purse was later found on the ground by an unknown person and returned to the cooperator, who stated that only her money was removed.
140 Darrow Place – A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package had been removed from the lobby area by an unknown person(s) without their permission.
120 Bellamy Loop – CCPD responded to a call about individuals loitering on the fifth floor B stairwell. Upon arrival, CCPD observed a cooperator and two friends smoking cigarettes and loitering. The cooperator was issued Community Complaints for smoking in the building and for loitering.
2420 Hunter Avenue – A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package had been removed from the lobby area by an unknown person(s) without their permission.
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.
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/
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 Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary
So. How was your week?
The election results were –to put it delicately – surprising. Within our zip code, which includes some private house neighbors slightly north and south of us, 4% more voters chose the Republican line in 2024 (12%) compared with 2020 (8%). We – Co-op City, the Bronx, New York City, New York State – followed the trend of veering more-orless to the right. For most people, which side comes out on top rarely affects their day-to-day lives. But this time, it could be very different because neither side is shy about keeping its agenda hidden.
Hope for the best, plan for the worst, and watch and see which way the House of Representatives breaks. If it doesn’t/didn’t break your way, it’s time to dust off your personal version of the 12step mantra: do what you can, accept what you can’t, and try to tell which is which.
The times they are a-changin’! I’m betting one of the first changes will be how climate change is addressed. Climate change initiatives will undoubtedly be affected at the federal level, leaving it to the states, and in our case, the city, to take the lead going forward. The issue closest to home is local law 97 (LL97), the decarbonization effort to limit greenhouse gas emissions.
Climate scientists determined the city’s 1,000,000 buildings are responsible for 70% of our atmosphere-damaging pollution. From the start, I’ve been on the side of making Co-op City the planet-saving poster child for the cause rather than hollering for a waiver. But I’ve also known the compliance timeline was way, way off and so did many, many others.
The climate change spectrum from it’s-a-hoax to stop-burning-absolutely-everything-and-anythingright-now, with various opinions along the way, such as, mitigate-what-we-can-asap or fuhgeddabouditit’s-too-late-already or hey-I’m-old-so-I-don’t-care, are many. But I think most can agree the planet is heading toward Mad Max doomsday territory.
Maybe innovation will save the day or maybe we’re just rearranging the Titanic’s deck chairs. Regardless, we might as well roll up our sleeves rather than throw up our hands. (Where’ve we heard that before?) We’ve got nothing to lose except asthma-promoting pollution even if our (subsidized and/or eventually cost-saving) efforts to wean ourselves off fossil fuels fall short. Time
hasn’t totally run out yet (as far as I know) to gather whatever financial offsets we can to incorporate some alternative, sustainable energy sources to feed our power plant.
Local Law 97 has been modified several times since its first writing. Some rules and time limits are not quite as set in stone as they were. A major concession was allowing a show of good faith plan by the original May 1, 2025 deadline, rather than actually implementing it. There’s mention of that rule change in a 2023 presentation on the NYC.gov site under the heading LL 97: MORE TO COME.
The presentation also includes 13 prescriptive measures on the journey to compliance. Co-op City is on top of – or working on – some of the remedies, such as: weatherizing windows (Done how many years ago?), upgrading lighting (Get those grants!), repairing heating system leaks (seemingly never-ending), adjusting temperature set points for heat and hot water (and cooling temperature, too), and installing individual temperature controls (a standard feature on our 32 living room convectors being tested in building 14).
The 31-page presentation, however, also starts with a disclaimer and surprisingly ends with a list of LL97 challenges which contain phrases such as: one-size-fits-all won’t work, and, data... is filled with junk, and, there are gaps/hurdles.
So that was the first reprieve, allowing for a 2026 delay for good intentions. But that was then.
Further loosening of the law along with the new Affordable Housing Reinvestment Fund provision – announced on 10/4/24 and currently in the public comment phase – might prove to be key to us keeping our power plant running and keeping Co-op City affordable. Fingers crossed. Stand by. More details (than most will care to know) to follow.
Veterans Day. This year’s Veterans Day commemoration, organized by the American Legion Co-op City Post 1871 and supported by Riverbay and the Riverbay Fund and the office of Council Member Kevin Riley, was held last Saturday,
Building 6 Association
Neighbors, we have our buildings bylaws that were distributed at the general association meeting this past Wednesday. If any neighbor wants their own copy, please contact President Lassiter at 347-366-7690 so she can print/email the packet. Now that the elections are over, the Social Committee is back in full effect. So, stay tuned for holiday events like Friendsgiving, sip ‘n paints, poetry slams, open mics and movie nights. The Mental Health Workshop was postponed until December 7, 12 p.m.-2:30 p.m., in the association room.
December’s association meeting is Wed., December 11, with Guest Speaker Joshua Blake, from 7 p.m.-9 p.m., in Dreiser, Rm. 1. Light refreshments will be served. And our second Annual Holiday Mixer is Saturday, December 21, in the association room, from 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Stay tuned for details.
Food as a Means of Fellowship (Acts 2:46) – Eating together is more than just a routine, it’s an act that brings you closer to others. We also have our special in Building 6 crooner, Mr. Frank Senior, who will be blessing us with holiday tunes again. Kudos to the Social Committee for embellishing the lobby with Fall/Thanksgiving themed décor.
As always neighbors, if you see something, you say something. Call CCPD at 718-320-3300 and press #1 or call 911. If you’re feeling under the weather mentally, dial 988. The hotline is open 24/7.
Until then, as always, I pray for safety over all. God speed.
––Lauren K. Lassiter
November 9, in the Einstein Community Center. The touching ceremony, honoring United States’ veterans and victims of all wars, was held on the 51st anniversary of the signing of the Paris Peace Accord which marked the end of the Vietnam War. CD16 Congressman-Elect George Latimer was in attendance. So was Co-op City Executive General Manager Marvin Walton as well as representatives from the offices of our elected officials. Although a perennial scheduling conflict prevents most of our elected officials from attending Veterans Day commemorations, perhaps they’ll make up for it with extra support for Post 1871’s future events.
Head’s up. Co-op City’s participation in the flawed electric scooter program may be numbered. As we were told at the recent town hall initiated by Borough President Vanessa Gibson, the pilot program, now three years in, is way overdue for full implementation. The corrals have been here since day one but never completed. The gray and white plastic bollards that cordon off scooter parking areas are still in place, but stencils were never painted and the appropriate signs were never installed. The alternative of keeping, storing, and charging one’s own electric scooter is prohibited by resolution, so it’s the rentals or nothing. Hopefully, the Buildings and Grounds Committee can look into getting the program tweaked before the rental scooters are no longer an option.
Committees. Committees are almost up and running. I’ll be chairing the Disability & Accommodations Committee. All interested parties are encouraged to participate. You know my number. Have a good week, despite it all, everybody. Feel free to contact me. MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211.
African-American Association Coming Events!
November 16 – Open Mic Fundraiser, cancelled. We’ll bring this event back in 2025!
November 17 – Join us tomorrow at the Bardekova Concert. General meeting relocated. (AAACC members will meet, observe and support these wonderful musicians and free concert.) Let us all witness the majesty of the Bardekova Annual Concert in Bartow, Rm. 31.
November 23 – Bronx Rodeo Health Fitness Line Dance Workshop, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., in the Dreiser Center, Auditorium A. Cowpokes!
December 14 – Pre-Kwanzaa celebration.
Now – Right now, we have a new president, with a new agenda. So, let’s begin anew and unite through all of these events with reverence!
Bardekova Ensemble’s Annual Free Concert: Riverbay Board Director Andrea Leslie and Riverbay Board Secretary Bernie Cylich are carrying on the work of the Coalition to Save Affordable Housing’s Yolanda Schumann, who is responsible for introducing the Bronx Council on the Arts and The Bardekova Ensemble to our community back in 2015.
Tomorrow, Sunday, November 17, AAACC members will convene at the Bartow Center to savor the sweet sounds of the Bardekova Ensemble. The Bardekova Ensemble is sponsored by the Bronx Council on the Arts and performs annually for our community. The concerts are always delightful and free for our community to enjoy.
The Bronx Council on The Arts: Founded by visionary community leaders in 1962, the Bronx Council on the Arts was a pioneer in advancing cultural equity in the Bronx. From its early beginnings as a presenter of affordable arts programming in select Bronx neighborhoods, they have grown into a cultural hub that serves the entire creative ecosystem of the borough.
AAACC Membership: $25/year for single membership and $35/year for family/household. Zelle us your payment using our email address. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com. Call: 646-883-9095. The African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.
AAACC Programs
Belly Dance Classes – contact Xonia Wilson at 646-301-9438.
Evening Line Dance Classes – contact Cynthia Dixon at 917-903-7073
Yoga & Pilates Classes – contact Meena Sharpe-Hicks at 917-863-1507.
Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers”– contact Joyce Smith at 718-320-0714.
“Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals a force for good.”
––Michelle Marbury
Greetings, Building 20 residents.
Building 20 Association
Our next Building 20 Association meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 21, at 7 p.m. Please plan to attend. We have extended an invitation to Mr. Victor Dickson, the Jr. Property Manager at Riverbay Corp., who can respond to the questions from our residents. Also, we encourage you to pay the annual $10 dues (if you have not already paid), participate in the 50-50 raffle drawing, exchange community information and enjoy the delicious refreshments. Kindly check the Building 20 bulletin board for updates.
The Building 20 Association Bylaws were ratified at the October 17 meeting and will be distributed or emailed to residents. The position of Corresponding Secretary is still open. Please consider filling it. If everyone does a little, no one needs to do a lot.
The Bardekova Ensemble will be performing on November 17, at 3 p.m., in the Bartow Community Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Rm. 31. This is a free event that members of the Building 20 Association will attend.
The Building 20 Association outing last Sunday was fantastic. We were entertained by the PJS Jazz Society, which featured the Winard Harper Big Band. On December 8, at 5:30 p.m., Antoinette Montague will be the vocalist performer at the First Presbyterian Church Parish Hall, located at 199 North Columbus Avenue in Mt. Vernon, NY. Come out, relax and enjoy an extraordinary performance. For additional information, please contact me, 718-671-5957. Building 20 residents who have suggestions for an outing, please contact me.
Please save the date and plan to attend the 28th Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration on December 14, at 3 p.m., in the Bartow Community Center, Rm. 31. There will be a Kwanzaa ceremony, Griot ceremony, entertainment, vendors, a Karamu feast, and more. Your contribution is to bring a store-bought dessert or juice to share with others. Come out with your family and friends for a wonderful Kwanzaa experience.
Please stay safe and be a good neighbor.
––Francine Jones
Broun Place Townhouse Association
Good day, neighbors. Broun Place admires the celebrations of autumn. For example, Building 26 and Building 6 had great photos of their activities in the Co-op City Times. Our association attended the 45th Precinct Community Council. However, we left before the meeting was adjourned. Some attendees thought the Council was connected to Riverbay and asked questions related to Riverbay Corporation business. Folks need to follow up research before attending meetings.
Regarding the e-bike left in Broun Place, there is no new update. We thank Public Safety again for moving the bike. They moved it to the garbage dumpster pad where it was not an obstacle to pedestrians or folks using a motorized wheelchair. This help is appreciated. Something needs to be done to protect residents from the hazards of these bikes.
Although we had a rain shower from Sunday to Monday, it wasn’t enough rain to lift the request to economize water. Use water sparingly.
Congratulations to New York State Assemblyperson Michael Benedetto and State Senator Jamaal Bailey on winning their elections.
The onus is really on us to follow up on issues before making statements and jumping to conclusions. Hopefully, you voted. Not voting is not an answer.
Another letter from a so called “auto insurance company” was received. Their aim is to get you to respond and give personal information. They want you to call
Building 13 Association
Our last building meeting was held on Tuesday, November 12, at 7 p.m., in the association room located in the rear under the portico. If you have questions about Maintenance and Restoration items, such as painting, plastering and flooring, you did not want to miss this meeting. This meeting served as both the November and December meetings combined, due to the many activities coming up for the holidays. We will share some of the items discussed in upcoming articles.
On the agenda for the meeting was the request for volunteers to assist in decorating the lobby in preparation for the holidays. We used our 50/50 money and purchased a free turkey for the raffle. We are also setting up dates for a donation collection for our staff.
If you would like to help decorate for the holidays, please see the flyer and let us know. We will also be posting information of dates and times for our collections, and this will be done by our vice president, Mr. Mattison. He is also seeking volunteers to help assist in the lobby. If you can find some time, please let us know so he can confirm dates. More information to follow. Don’t miss out on community activities, always check the bulletin board in the lobby. Stay in the know.
Emergency Preparedness: There is one more NYS Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Readiness Session in the Bronx, scheduled for Saturday, December 7, at 2 p.m. in the Dreiser Auditorium.
It is more important than ever that New Yorkers are ready for emergencies. At the NY Citizen Preparedness Training Program, you will learn how to prepare, respond and recover when disaster strikes. Registration is required to attend the event. To register, visit www.prepare.ny.gov or go online and enter Citizen Preparedness Training. Each family that attends will receive one preparedness kit.
Truman High School: Truman is having an Open House today, November 16, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Sunday, November 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. These events are designed to introduce middle school students and their families to Truman’s extensive facilities and staff. Visitors will be guided through some of the school’s most impressive facilities, including newly remodeled swimming pools, professional-grade culinary arts kitchens, and extensive arts spaces that foster creativity across multiple disciplines. The tours will also feature Truman’s 3D printing lab, a law library complete with a mock courtroom, and a fully-equipped planetarium. You can RSVP at https://forms.gle/ Rz346jzPMHaHg22g9 or by contacting the school directly at 718-904-5400.
“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, at 718-320-1370 or Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.
––Leslie Peterson
and give your car’s VIN # and other information. The first correspondence referred to a car we don’t have. It wanted us to contact them and update the coverage by giving private information like the VIN number. Read before you respond.
We urge you to patronize Dreiser Loop and Bartow stores. They look forward to your patronage. Before you spend extra on travel, walk and browse our centers, shop around.
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. Call Saturdays only, from 9a.m.-1 p.m.
Recycling bins are located at the garages. Garage #6 has a bin at the front and rear. Recycle your gently used things. It helps you and those who need. Recently, we even saw a pickup truck emptying the bin.
Please keep your dogs quiet. Leashing is required. Dog owners must clean up behind their dogs. To report a problem, call CCPD at 1-718-671-3050.
This week’s wise words: “Don’t look for luxury in shops, don’t look for it in gifts, don’t look for it in parties, don’t look for it in events! Luxury is being loved by people, luxury is being respected, luxury is having your parents alive, luxury is being able to play with your grandchildren. Luxury is what money can’t buy.”
–Clint Eastwood
—Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar
A new management report shows that we had 225 vacant apartments as of October 31, 2024. Therefore, can you believe that we lost $1,054,000 just since April 1, 2024?
How Would You Handle This Situation?
We received a 7.5% carrying charge increase last year. Then, we received an 8.1% carrying charge increase on July 1, 2024. So, you would think that our management would have placed more effort on operating our community in a far better manner. But, as you continue reading, you’ll see exactly what’s been happening here.
Let’s say that someone took all of their belongings and moved out of here. And, now, their former apartment is empty and in relatively decent shape. So, yes, their apartment might need some plastering work. Then, of course, their former apartment will need to be painted.
Riverbay uses about three outside contractors to restore vacant apartments. Therefore, I want you to consider the next question in a very careful manner. Ready? Without rushing, what is the maximum amount of time that you would give a crew—let’s say 2-3 contract workers per apartment—to restore our various sizes of apartments here? Being fair, what is your response?
Now, I want you to compare your response to what is written on the report from our outside management agency: “Average days for apartment to be restored – 30.” So, on average, it takes 30 days just to restore an apartment here. But, how does your response match up with the restoration work that’s going on here? No match? Why not? Again, we lost
$1,054,000 from April 1, 2024 – October 31, 2024 because of our vacant apartments. So, do you think that we have a major problem here? Do you think that we should continue to allow this type of work to go on here?
Bottom line: I do not like to write difficult viewpoints about anyone. But, as an elected board director, I will step up, protect, and serve my community in a proper manner.
In my opinion, what’s going on with these vacant apartments is wrong. Think, why would any management agency allow these vacancies to go on for so long? Again, we lost $1,054,000. Can you imagine what we could have done with that money?
Fire in Dreiser
On Friday, November 8, 2024, shortly after 1 p.m., there was a fire in the second floor men’s restroom in the Dreiser mall. According to a witness, a young man entered the restroom. Then, allegedly, a fire occurred in a trash can. Shortly afterward, the fire was extinguished.
Some youths like to hang out at the Dreiser mall during and after school hours. And, unfortunately, some youths like to act out. For instance, some youths have been seen running out of the stores in Dreiser with unpaid items. In response, some store owners have taken measures to stop some of these youths from causing trouble in their store.
Parents need to understand that we have video cameras in our malls and in other areas of our community. So, youths that act out can be introduced to a legal system that they will probably not like. Furthermore, parents can be issued community complaints based on the actions of their children.
Therefore, it would be good if parents can teach their children to watch their associations. For example, what should a child do if other children make plans to cause trouble throughout our community? Stealing? Fighting? Bullying other children? What would you do if a group of youths came to your front door just to fight your child? Look, this nonsense has occurred several times in our community—Co-op City. So, now, what would you do?
Look, there can be a variety of responses to this question. But, despite our own angry feelings, the best action is to call our Public Safety department at 718-671-3050 or the NYPD at 911. However, can we turn this situation around and teach children to never seek a fight with anyone? Can children be taught to exhibit good behavior at all times? Can children be taught some good spiritual values so that they can show kindness and respect to people?
Bottom line: Some young people might be silently crying out for love, attention, and help. Therefore, they will probably act out in school, exhibit poor behaviors, and perhaps set fires. So, as parents, let’s be that role model for them. Let’s sit them down and have powerful conversations with them. Thereafter, with God’s help, we can turn their life around. Close
We will not let our community go down. Therefore, as shareholders, you must hold this management agency and our board accountable for our actions. We have board meetings. However, in over 50 years, have you ever heard of a group of shareholders getting together to hold a shareholder meeting? No! So, some changes need to be made here. 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.
Co-op City Toastmasters
Greetings, from Toastmasters – “Where leaders are made.”
Building 32 Association
Hello, shareholders!
November 2024 – We have a new president-elect, and we celebrate our veterans. Now we look forward to the other traditional American holiday of Thanksgiving. Tradition is also important in Toastmasters, as we continue to celebrate 100 years in the field of public speaking, but there comes a time for untraditional action, which is what we did at our last meeting. Out with a traditional agenda and in with a meeting devoted entirely to “Table Topics,” or “TT,” a segment where everyone speaks and not just members on the agenda. Congrats to TM Kim Sudderth for her superb job as TT Master. Without advance notice of the questions or topics, she kept guests engaged, speaking and having fun. It was a great non-traditional meeting. One highlight was the spontaneous and hilarious comedic routine by Kenneth Lewis, a guest. Mr. Lewis described a shopping trip gone bad that he took with his wife to a local chain store. After anecdotally traversing the store, he concluded that there were definitely more items and space for his wife than for him!!
TT is meant to be an impromptu and extemporaneous speaking segment with a lot of fun and that’s what we heard from all the guests. Everyone had a turn at the mic.
Did you know there
are more than 300 competencies, traditional and advanced, offered in the Toastmasters program? We invite you to visit a meeting and see if there is something you are interested in. Feel free to visit our clubs as often as you like and discover the benefits of being a Toastmaster. Please mark your calendar and visit a Toastmasters meeting. There is so much more to gain for your communication and leadership skill sets.
Meeting Schedule
CCTM meets every Thursday at 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 5. The first Thursday of the month is a hybrid meeting and starts at 6 p.m. with a networking session. The Toastmasters meeting begins immediately after at 7 p.m.
BAS (advanced) meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 5, at 7 p.m. It is a hybrid meeting and all are welcome. For Zoom information, call 347-922-2377.
Announcements
• Come out to our free Happy Holiday Celebration on Tues., Dec. 10, at 177 Dreiser Community Center, Auditorium C, from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Watch for the flyer.
• Follow us at “Coop City Toastmasters” on all social media. Tell a friend, colleague or family member. All are welcome.
• For more information, call 347-922-2377 or 718-344-6719.
• Defensive Driving Education Class returns. Call 917-703-0876 to pre-register.
Don’t delay, call today.
––Lauretta Jaysura
I know it’s a little late, but I’d like to publicly thank and acknowledge shareholders Cliff from 14D and Ivy from 4J, who helped with stringing lights and hanging Halloween decorations. And thanks to Patricia from 8J, Monica from 11J and Tony who donated candy and accessories. We couldn’t have done it without you.
If you would like to help string lights and hang decorations for the Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa season in both lobbies, come find us on Dec. 7, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Next up, the Building 32 Association would like to invite all shareholders to our general meeting on November 19. Join us as guest speakers will teach us about the latest news and information concerning Medicare. Representatives will represent all carriers.
At this meeting, we will also have a Thanksgiving Raffle where one lucky winner will receive a gift card that will go towards a turkey dinner! Will that winner be you? You gotta be in it to win it!
In the meantime, please enjoy a few pics of our amazing Halloween displays and candy giveaway.
—Ezekiel Springer Jr.
American Legion Post 1871’s Veterans Day Event
Donizetti Building 4 Association
Cooperators,
On Saturday, October 26, Donizetti Place Building Four Association hosted a Halloween costume celebration. The event was for friends and family members of our building. It was a delightful afternoon of fun, games, haunted houses, and sweet treats to eat.
Our local pizzeria in Section 5 supplied a delicious variety of pizzas. We thank them for their generosity. A great afternoon was had by all. On October 31, Halloween candy was distributed in the lobby of Building 4B to children in the community. At right, are a few pictures of the events that took place: Upcoming Events Thanksgiving Basket
Raffle – Sale dates Oct. 26 thru Nov. 23. Drawing: Nov. 23, 2024. Price: $5 per book. Annual Thanksgiving Brunch – Saturday, November 23, 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Please RSVP by Nov. 16, 2024. Feel free to contact one of our executive board members listed below if you would like to attend.
Reminder: During the holiday season, it is very important that we continue to check on our neighbors who are sick and shut in. Also remember, if you see something, say something. Donizetti Board members: Diane Windley, (646) 271-7377; Mary McCoy, (718) 6710425; Dawn Mitchell, (347) 570-9638.
—Dawn Mitchell
Director s Viewpoint Michelle Marbury
Reverence – The Next 4 Years – How We Move Forward
Are you Familiar with the Word “Reverence?”
Reverence is a profound and deep feeling of respect, deep admiration and esteem. It means having honor, devotion, loyalty and dedication. Reverence is being in awe of “your own” and with gratitude; looking at “your own” in wonder and amazement. Kinda’ like I see Co-op City and the Riverbay Corporation.
There are many types of reverence –Cultural reverence, like towards your heritage; environmental reverence, for example, towards nature. Spiritual reverence would refer to a higher power, and then, personal reverence, like towards role models – the people you have or currently look up to.
How can “we all” benefit by using the Characteristics of Reverence?
(I can name you 5 ways)
1. Humility – We must humble ourselves to each other and with,
2. Gratitude – Respect each other’s differences and opinions and with,
3. Mindfulness – to work together to solve the big challenges (not the small fixes, they will get done, e.g. your sink leaks or your toilet is running, etc.) and with,
4. Sacrifice of each one of us, to do whatever we must do, to preserve the sanctity and existence of Cooperative Living and Affordable Housing. We
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must begin to trust each other for what we have in common, a neighborhood that can still boast “the lowest crime rate in this city.” We must begin to acknowledge the comfortability we have and we must vow to keep these commonalties for ourselves and the generations after us, which brings me to number five.
5. Loyalty – We must support each other as shareholders, and be loyal to this community that we get to call home. How do we do that? By entertaining new ideas that force us all to think outside the box. We cannot look weak, and that is what we do, when we show our disagreements (i.e., constant complaining about the small insignificant things, just because we heard someone else complaining). No, take that person aside and TALK WITH THEM, NOT TO THEM. Assure them that “certain things are challenging, but we are better off than many. We must be seen as united. This is the way we get through the next four (4) years.
Thinking Outside the Box – What If?
I had a conversation with Director Lambright who introduced the idea of bridging the digital divide amongst seniors and Broadband. He also spoke of this idea in his last viewpoint and asked “all shareholders” to weigh-in. Think of this. We (i.e., all seniors) get the tools (i.e., computers, laptops or cell phones) and we get trained to use them and use the service. The company will reward us for using the service by offering a percentage of
Call 718.320.3300, Ext. 3379 for our affordable rates.
their reselling dollars back to us and our operational budget. Can you say, “No more maintenance increases?”
My fellow Shareholders, We’ve got to stick together like glue or better stated, with reverence for the next four years! Reverence for our beautiful community which inspires a profound sense of responsibility and stewardship, compelling us to protect and preserve its beauty and resources. We must acknowledge Earth’s and Our Community’s majesty and interconnectedness, we must recognize the urgency to address climate change, pollution, and species extinction. By embracing sustainable practices, reducing our carbon footprint, and conserving our natural habitat right here in our own neighborhood, we will demonstrate reverence through action.
Honor through reverence –
Let us honor our planet’s/community’s sacredness by adopting eco-friendly lifestyles, supporting renewable energy, and advocating environmental policies. Through collective reverence, we can restore balance, ensure a resilient future, and cherish the gift of our planet/community for generations to come.
Thank You
It is my privilege to serve you and this community. I can be reached at mmarbury@riverbayboard.com. Each one of us multiplied by all of us, equals a force for good.
Building 33 Association
Good day, shareholders.
The presidential election has concluded, and many individuals expected that the volume of text messages received on their mobile devices would diminish. However, relevant authorities have indicated that this is not the case, as such messages continue to persist. It is essential to identify strategies to mitigate unsolicited communications, which are often regarded as intrusive and bothersome. Additionally, there is an increasing concern regarding the methods by which these entities acquired access to personal mobile numbers in the first place! Block the number and they call from another number. Ridiculous.
We would also like to address the increasing prevalence of negative comments on social media platforms in Co-op City regarding the outcome of the election. We must learn to coexist harmoniously. Posting derogatory remarks can provoke unfavorable responses, and the consequences of such actions may lead to outcomes that are decidedly unconstructive. There is a saying, if you don’t have anything nice to say, you shouldn’t say anything. Maybe we should stick to that.
A conversation was held with several businesses in Section Five regarding their disposal of garbage in the bins located around the shopping center. They have been warned and if anyone witnesses this behavior, please contact me, and the appropriate department in Riverbay will be notified.
Do you have roaches? If so, begin the process of eliminating them by contacting the Extermination department. Roaches require two essential resources to thrive: water and food. They cannot survive more than seven days without water and cannot last more than thirty days without food. After cooking or eating, be sure to clean your stove, countertops, sink (dry your sink of any water and spray with ammonia or any type of disinfectant), and the area where you dined to remove any water and remnants. This will help effectively eliminate the roaches in your house. Believe me, it works!
Building dues will start being collected soon and we thank you in advance for your donations.
If you are experiencing difficulties we are keeping you in our prayers.
The funeral arrangements for long-time friend and shareholder Taina Tyson-Grant are as follows: The wake will be held on Thursday, November 14, from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. and the funeral, is Friday, November 15, with the final viewing from 9 a.m.-10 a.m., and the funeral starts at 10 a.m.
Please have a blessed and healthy week everyone!
–Andrea Mayo
Dear shareholders,
NAACP Building 24 Association
We accomplished the first of our fall holiday goals by meeting and greeting lots of Halloween trick-or-treaters and handing out their treats. The lobby was decorated and we all enjoyed seeing the children in their costumes. Thanks again to everyone who helped decorate the lobby: Jabiel, Sonia and Joseph. Thanks also to Shirley, Judy, Charlotte, Morris and Jabiel for meeting the kids and giving out the treats. I wore my pirate costume again and tried not to scare anyone too much. The lobby sign-up sheets worked, and kids were able to continue trick-or-treating in the building later in the evening after we finished.
Next, we’re going to have our Thanksgiving Raffle, which is also a fundraiser for the Building Association. We’ll sell tickets for a dollar each, or 6 for $5, and plan to pick four first-prize winners to win a $25 gift certificate to Stop & Shop and six second-prize winners will win a large bottle of wine. Tickets will be sold Wednesday to Friday, November 20-22, from 4:30-7 p.m. and Saturday, November 23, from 12 to 3 p.m. in the lobby. Winning tickets will be drawn and prizes given later that evening or the following day.
In December, we’ll decorate the lobby again for Christmas and Chanukah and welcome a Kwanza decoration. We also invite anyone who wishes to place a wrapped Christmas gift box under the tree. We will also collect contributions for our building workers again to show our appreciation for their work throughout the year. Collection dates will be posted in the lobby.
We hope to start having meetings again soon and welcome any suggestions for guest speakers or topics of interest. Call me at 718-320-1458 and leave a message. If I’m out, I’ll get back to you.
—Bruce Silberman
Building 10 Association
Greetings, fellow cooperators.
New Cooperators – Welcome, all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next General Membership meeting.
Ladies Night – Ladies Night will be held on Friday, November 22, from 7 p.m.-10 p.m., in the association room located in the rear of Building 10B. Come out for some laughter and fun. Light refreshments will be served.
Tag Sale – The Building 10 Association is looking for new or gently used items for our fundraiser Tag Sale. We will be accepting household items, books, sports equipment, musical instruments and more. The Tag Sale will be held on December 14, from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Please contact Jeannie at 917-566-7804 or Jewel at 917-488-5237 for more information.
Tip of the Week: Open Board Meeting – Attend an open Board meeting. All cooperators are reminded that at an open Board meeting, you can speak to the directors of the different departments within Riverbay before the meeting starts. You can also sign up to speak to the Riverbay Board of Directors and/or Management regarding your concerns within our community. Let your voice be heard.
If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718-879-6311.
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 room. We are also on Facebook, “Building 10 ABC Association.” Like our page and get notified 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.
“May you be proud of the work you do, the person you are, and the difference you make.”
Have a great week.
Jewel Crawford-Duncan
The NAACP marches to defend democracy and combat racism and discrimination in communities across the country. We meet the fourth Sunday of the month at 3 p.m. The NAACP Co-op City Branch Office Hours: Mondays and Wednesdays, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The branch election was held on November 12, from 2-8 p.m. Ballots were emailed to eligible voters by the NAACP National Office. Results will be announced in the next NAACP article.
Back to Civics Workshop – Thank you for all who have attended the workshops. Part three of the Civic Engagement Workshop is scheduled for November 19, at 7 p.m. It is facilitated by Civic Engagement Chair Felix Omozusi. The workshops are held at the NAACP office located in the Einstein Center, Rm. 36. You don’t have to be a member to attend.
The NAACP is non-partisan, not endorsing a candidate nor party, but the organization is political and want people to know how to navigate the process.
As of today, the Presidential election is over and a winner has been declared. The NAACP has stated that our organization’s work securing equality and justice for all continues. Regardless of who sits in the White House or the State House, the NAACP stands resolute in their mission to protect the civil rights and dignity of Black and marginalized communities. Our commitment to justice and equality remains unshakable. We will hold leaders accountable, amplify our voices, and advocate fiercely for reforms that protect the health, safety, and prosperity of every Black individual across this nation.
The NAACP priorities are clear:
• Advancing racial justice means fighting against discriminatory practices head-on to build a more equitable society for all.
• Creating an inclusive economy that works for everyone and one that prioritizes inclusion.
• Building health equity for Black families by expanding access to affordable, high-quality healthcare and addressing the disparities affecting our communities.
• Promoting environmental justice to protect communities of color from the harmful effects of pollution and to reverse climate change.
• Ensuring equal access to education through resources and advocacy to guarantee our children the educational opportunities they deserve.
• Protecting women’s rights by defending access and autonomy in reproductive healthcare, workplace protections, and beyond.
• Securing voting access to protect the fundamental right for all to participate freely in democracy.
We want to extend our condolences to all who have lost a loved one and wish a speedy recovery for those who are on the mend. Miss you, Brenda.
Follow us on Facebook: “Co-op City NAACP.”
Our Membership Campaign is ongoing. Become a member, gift a membership or upgrade your membership. Take your advocacy further by joining in the fight 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 Coop City, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36, Bronx, NY 10475. To leave a message, call the office phone at 718-320-3210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com
––Leslie Peterson
Building 27 Association
Halloween Candy Giveaway a Success, Thanks to Our Amazing Volunteers!
This Halloween, the Building 27 Association hosted a memorable candy giveaway for all the kids and families in the building and throughout Section 5, bringing smiles, excitement, and the spirit of Halloween to everyone involved. From the spooky decorations to the creative costumes, it was an event to remember.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to each and every volunteer who helped make the evening possible. From organizing the candy stations to decorating, greeting families, and cleaning up afterward, this event could not have happened without your dedication and hard work.
Here’s a special shout-out to our volunteers:
Setup Crew: Adele, Lydia, and Thalia. Thanks for transforming our lobby with Halloween decor, making it festive and welcoming.
Candy Distributors: Sharon, Lydia, Adele, Thalia and new member Keke. Your enthusiasm and energy while handing out treats made the experience even more magical for the kids!
Clean-Up Team: We appreciate all the help in
tidying up afterward, ensuring our space was spotless after the festivities.
Also, a special shoutout goes to the members who donated candy and money for this event. Without your donations this event wouldn’t have been as successful as it was.
It’s this sense of community that makes events like these so special. The smiles on the kids’ faces were a testament to the impact we can have when we come together.
Thank you once again to everyone who contributed their time, resources, and spirit. We look forward to more events where we can continue to bring joy and celebrate together!
Upcoming General Meeting: Our next general membership meeting will be November 21, at 7 p.m. Our guest will be Anthony Barzelatto from the Riverbay Safety department. Please plan on learning how you can prevent fires from numerous holiday celebrations and decorations and remain safe this holiday season. We will also be having our annual thanksgiving raffle; you don’t want to miss that.
—Aaron Carnegie
Black Forum
Emergency Food Pantry: 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). The pantry is open on Thursday and Friday, from 11 a.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 4-6 clean shopping bags with handles and a shopping cart to receive food. We will not place food in black bags because they pose a safety hazard. 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 affiliation 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 oneshot package of groceries. Also, new client registration and re-certification for returning guests into the pantry program is currently closed.
New Client Registration & Re-Certification for Returners: The Black Forum Food Pantry will reopen for registration and recertification in January 2025 for 10475 residents. All current pantry guests must recertify to continue receiving food assistance. Additionally, guests who have never registered or previously registered but did not recertify in 2024 are eligible to sign up.
To register or recertify, individuals must be 18 years or older and present a valid NYC ID (zip code must be 10475), NY State Driver’s License, or NY State Non-Driver’s License. Passports, Medicaid and Medicare cards, employment identification, and Access-A-Ride identification are not accepted. All household members must be present with valid identification and reside within the 10475 zip code. The intake forms will only include the number of household members who are able to show up in person at the office.
Those living in Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 should
register or recertify at 920 Baychester Avenue. Section 5 residents should go to 2350 Palmer Avenue.
Guests should bring clean shopping bags and a sturdy shopping cart when registering/recertifying.
Fresh Produce: Wednesday, November 20, at 10 a.m., we’ll be distributing a limited supply of fresh produce. Please note that supplies are limited and may run out at any time. We may need to stop accepting new arrivals in line once the supply starts to run low. To participate, please bring your 2024 pantry card, six clean shopping bags, and a sturdy shopping cart. Please avoid using black bags since they are a safety hazard. Form a line away from the front door, and a staff member will approach you to collect your pantry card. We will not distribute regular monthly groceries on this day.
Office Closure: The 920 Baychester location will be closed on November 28-29. Guests who are scheduled to pick up food on these dates can come on November 21 or 22. We will resume normal hours on December 5 at 11 a.m.
Contact Us: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.
—D. Illis
Coalition to Save Affordable Housing
We extend an invitation to all cooperators, lovers of good music, to join us to a perforce by the Barkova Wind Ensemble tomorrow, Sunday, at 3 p.m., November 17, in Bartow Center, Room 31. The Ensemble promises to warm our hearts and raise our spirits.
Ellen Bardekoff, founder of the Ensemble, is familiar to Co-op City cooperators. She is not only a wonderful oboist, but has, over the years, brought her fine, gifted musicians enriching our lives with their wonderful music.
The Coalition to Save Affordable Housing has been the proud sponsor of the Ensemble and is joined in co-sponsoring this event by The Bronx Council of The Arts, The Recording Industry’s Music Performance Trust Fund and Riverbay Corporation.
The Coalition is convening a membership meeting this Monday, November 18, at 7 p.m. in our meeting room, #13, Dreiser Center. On the agenda will be a wide open discussion on the implication of the election of Donald Trump for president to our community, city, state and nation. Hopefully, our discussion will review some civil role for cooperators in the coming future under a Trump administration.
Our Riverbay Corporation Board members will present update reports regarding our co-op including reports from other M-L cooperators.
Looking forward to see our members and friends tomorrow and on Monday.
—Bernard Cylich
Shareholders are reminded that the carrying charge deposit boxes located in the community centers open on the morning of the first business day of the month and close at midnight on the 10th of the month, which is the last day to pay your carrying charges before a late fee is accessed. If the 10th of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, the carrying charge boxes remain open through the next business day. Riverbay Management
Building 26 Association
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Turkey Trotters!
A huge shout-out to all the incredible participants who joined us for the Section 5 Turkey Trot on Saturday, November 9! Despite the less-thanideal weather, your dedication and community spirit made it an unforgettable experience. Witnessing our neighborhood come together at events like these continually reaffirms what a strong, supportive community truly looks like.
Each event reveals new faces, stories, and connections. This time, I had the pleasure of meeting families, young children, a talented chef, a dedicated marathon runner, and many others who eagerly stepped up to support our cause. These interactions remind me that as each year passes, our events will only continue to grow and strengthen our bond.
November, a month synonymous with gratitude, began perfectly with your support. A special thanks to my dedicated team of volunteers who always show up full of energy: Aaron Carnegie, Dalia, Jasmine, Yonna, Brown, Anaya, Nick, Cam, Tracey, Erika, Alice, Eunice, Penn, Sheryl, Michael Adolphus, Stefani, Noah, and Nicholas. Your enthusiasm and hard work make these events possible.
I also want to extend my sincere gratitude to our partners and supporters: Councilman Kevin Riley’s Office (special thanks to Jahmal Yapp), Amen Ministries, Imran (owner of Dunkin’ Donuts), Shae (Starbucks Community Ambassador), Care Access, FDNY, all the Riverbay employees, and Ms. King.
What’s Next? We’re looking ahead to more community joy and holiday cheer. Here’s what’s in store:
Seeking Performers for the Tree Lighting Event!: Last year’s event showcased some fantastic voices, and we’re on the hunt for talented performers again. If you or someone you know would
love to share their talent, please reach out! Contact information is provided below.
Building 28 Association
Hello, fellow shareholders.
Photos with Santa: Saturday, December 7, at 10 a.m. Location: 2420 Hunter Ave., Building 26B Association Room. Join us for festive photos with Santa! Registration is available via our QR code, and payments can be made in advance. Price: $10 (includes one printed photo and 10 enhanced digital photos sent via email). This is a fun event for all ages, bring friends and family!
Second Annual “Light It Up” Tree Lighting: Saturday, December 14, 5-8 p.m., at Einstein. Join us for a cozy, magical evening filled with music, performances, raffles, photo opportunities, freebies, and plenty of holiday cheer. Let’s come together and celebrate the spirit of community!
General Meeting: Monday, November 26, at 7 p.m. Topic: Health and Wellness (guest speaker to be announced). There will be a 50/50 raffle and light refreshments. Don’t miss it!
These events will wrap up our 2024 holiday season and we’ll look forward to the new year.
2025 Tentative Spring Calendar Highlights:
· Five-week boot camp circuit
· Healthy eating food demonstrations
· Care Access health screenings
· Easter egg hunt
· Open play arts and crafts for toddlers
· Video game night
· Paint and party event
We’d love to hear from you! Your ideas, concerns, and suggestions are always welcome as we continue to build a vibrant and inclusive community. Stay connected and get involved! Email: CoopcityTA26@gmail.com. Call: 860-821-0475
Tanya
Cruz-Cooke
National Council of Negro Women
NCNW National Post Election Statement – “The American people have spoken. As a collective, we must remain steadfast in working together to fulfill our mission. NCNW is committed to advocating for and empowering women of African descent, their families and communities. We applaud the service and determination of the nearly 1,200 Black women named on ballots throughout the country, and we congratulate all who were elected. NCNW membership engaged nationwide to educate and mobilize voters. NCNW honors this impact and historic election, and we look forward to continuing the work of our coalition, as we start the unification of the country.”
NCNW Co-op City Section – At our membership meeting on Sunday, November 10, we welcomed new members and visitors: Beverley Dunkley, Myishia Myke, Lorraine O’Kane, and Crystal Paris (a Life Member of NCNW returning to be active again). Our hybrid Zoom and in-person membership meetings make it convenient to join in our sisterhood.
NCNW Youth Section – The High School/College Summit that our Youth Section produced at the Northeast YMCA on Saturday, November 9, was a resounding success! There were experts on: the high school admission process, the college admission process, college preparedness, financial aid, scholarships, student loans and S.T.E.A.M. programs. For entertainment, there were raffles and a dance performance by the “Nothing 2 Crazy” dance group. The overwhelming message was that if a student is planning to transition
to high school or to college in fall of 2025, they should be making contacts and preparing for it now in fall of 2024!
November is Diabetes Awareness Month –More than 1 in 3 adults in the United States have prediabetes and many of them don’t know it! This month is a time to raise awareness about diabetes as an important public health issue and encourage people to take charge of their health. Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes, develops most often in middle-aged and older adults, but is increasing in young people. Common symptoms of diabetes are: urinating often, feeling very thirsty, feeling very hungry even though you are eating regularly, extreme fatigue, blurry vision, tingling, pain, numbness in the hands/feet and cuts/ bruises that are slow to heal. The disease develops because your body does not use insulin (a hormone) properly. Your pancreas can’t make enough insulin to keep your blood sugar (glucose) at normal levels. Early detection and treatment of diabetes can decrease the risk of developing the complications of diabetes. The complications can be quite serious: heart disease, kidney disease, eye disease, foot complications, skin complications, hearing loss and even stroke. But you can lower your risk of complications by regularly visiting your health provider and making some changes in your lifestyle.
Social Media – Remember, you can find us on our website: www. ncnwcoopcitysection.com; on Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com ––Joyce Howard
This weekend was a true vision of community. The first Annual Turkey Trot was hosted by Building 26 on Saturday, November 9. Please keep your eyes and ears open for more activities coming your way from Section 5. Thank you to all who participated from all the sections!
On November 16, at 5 p.m., the Building 28 Association will be hosting our first Meet & Greet Potluck/Turkey Raffle as well. Please join us in the association room located in the rear of Building 28B. Bring a dish, a donation or buy a plate. Email us at building28association@gmail.com and let us know how you would want to participate. Stay blessed and involved.
––Idalia Reyes
Section 5’s First Annual Turkey Trot hosted by Building 26
Greetings, retirees and friends.
Retirees of Dreiser Loop
We hope this article finds everyone safe and doing well. We thank all of those who joined our trip to the Wind Creek Casino yesterday. All had a fun time.
Biometric Health Screening – Will be held today, Saturday, November 16, from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., at the Church of New Vision. This event is sponsored by Pastor Adolphus of Amen Ministries.
Annual Holiday Luncheon – Tickets are now on sale for our annual holiday luncheon to be held on December 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 first-paid, first-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. Daisy will be available in Rm. 19 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 2-4 p.m. Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA, Thursday, February 14, 2025. Tickets are $65 with a $25 slot-play-giveback. The bus pick up is in front of H&R Block, leaving promptly at 8:30 a.m. Return drop-offs at Einstein, Asch, and Dreiser Loop. Contact Serita at 347-564-5722 for more information. Tropicana Casino Atlantic City Overnight – May 29-30, 2025. Addition-
al information will be announced soon.
Happy Birthday – We wish all our November celebrants an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year.
Condolences – We are saddened to inform you of the recent passing of our longtime member, Eloise Coleman. We extend our condolences to Junius Williams and his family on the recent loss of his sister. Please keep the Coleman and Williams families in your thoughts and prayers.
Good and Welfare – Our healing thoughts and prayers go out to those who may be ill and/or recuperating from surgery. 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, Rm. 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Questions may be addressed to Mary at 718-655-9170.
General Meeting – Our next general membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 4, at 1 p.m., in the Dreiser Center, Auditorium C.
––Georgianna Rodriguez
Goose Island Seniors
135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475. Shopping Trip – Lancaster, PA., Sat., Nov. 16. 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. Bus pick-up at Einstein Loop, 7:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8:15 a.m.
Motown Holiday Party – Windows on the Lake in Long Island, Thu., Dec. 12. Wait list only. Price: $145; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Price includes luncheon and show. Balance due Wed., Nov. 13.
Holiday Toy and Coat Drive – at Section 5 Center, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, on Dec. 14 from 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 MGM Casino and Black-eyed Sally’s, CT. – Thu., Feb. 6, 2025. Cancelled
2025 Uptown Motown Show at Tropicana AC – Thu., Mar. 27, 2025. Price: $160. Bonus, $25 slot play and $20 for food; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due Wed., Feb. 26, 2025.
2025 Hunterdon Hills Playhouse “Swing” – in Hampton, NJ, Thurs., May 1, 2025. Price: $180, includes luncheon and show; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due Wed., Mar. 26, 2025.
AARP Chapter #4997
2025 Holiday Hills Senior Day – in Prospect, CT, Tues., Aug. 19, 2025. Price: $150; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due Wed., Jul. 2, 2025. Notary with Yvonne Menefee – Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39. Call 718-379-9613.
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 served.
Game day – Tues. and Thurs., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dominoes, movies, socializing and more. Refreshments served.
To all members – Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of November: Mildred Dobson, Myrna Witherspoon, Olivine Durant. Florence Middleton, Loretta Woodard, Mae Dukes, Stephen Werner, Veronica Simmons, Elaine Jones, Lourdes Suarez and Grace Stubbs. We are collecting $30 dues for 2025. Down-payments accepted. 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, in the Section 5 Community Center. Phone: 718-379-9613. Stephen cell: 347-847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline. net. $StephenCarlSr. Good health to all.
––Stephen Roberts, Sr.
AARP members, friends, family and neighbors. The 2024 Presidential Election is now done, and the results may not have been what we had planned for, but they are the way of life for the next four years. This being said, we have to be more vigilant than ever and focus on all the issues that are going to affect our quality of life. Stay involved!
Our next general membership meeting is Monday, November 18, at 1 p.m., in the Dreiser Loop auditorium, second floor. We will be sharing any information from the national and state levels along with our updates. I hope to see you there.
Our Tour Committee has been continuing to advertise and answer inquiries about the four trips planned for 2025. Our first trip is scheduled for March 27 and is a one-day trip to see the “Uptown Motown Tribute Show” at the Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City. This is a fabulous show highlighting all our favorites from Motown. The cost is $159 per person and includes slot play, food credit, all taxes and gratuities, and motor coach transportation.
The second trip is a three-day, two-night excursion to the Finger Lakes. The dates are May 13-May 15 and include motor coach transportation, lodging, and some meals. Among the tours planned are a visit to Belhurst Castle, Willard Memorial Chapel, Finger Lakes Winery tour and tasting, Scenic Lake Cruise, Finger Lakes Gambling and Racetrack visit, and more. The cost of this trip is $99 per person.
For all our trips, you are able to purchase insurance, and it is recommended for your protection. All of our trips depart from Dreiser Loop, near the H&R Block office. Times will be posted as we get closer to the travel date. For any information, please contact Ms. Wright at 718-379-3370 or Ms. Brown at 718-379-7962. Flyers will be available at our office.
The hours of operation at our office are Monday-Thursday, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., at 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 0, second floor. Phone: 718-320-1946 or email aarp4997@gmail.com. Please leave a message, and we will return the communication on our next business day.
Ms. Baker (718-379-2088) is continuing to do applications for new/renewal memberships. Mrs. Wilson (718-671-5493) is sharing with us that our friend and member Ms. Eloise Coleman has passed on. Our condolences to her family and friends. At the time of notification, no arrangements had been made. Keeping all our members in prayer as they continue on their journey to recovery.
The Department of Civil Service has posted new examinations coming up in the near future, and you can check them on their website. During this time of the year, it is best to keep your medical visits up-to-date. Get your vaccinations for the various illnesses, if recommended by your personal doctor. There is no telling how our medical coverage will be affected after January 20, 2025. Changes are coming!
Due to the upcoming changes facing our community, this article will be returning to weekly printings.
—Ann Purnell
New Riverbay Bookkeeping Hours
Effective Monday, August 5, the Riverbay Bookkeeping hours will be 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 office 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
Co-op City NORC Program Invites You for These In-Person & Virtual Activities
Bartow OAC Trips – Nov. 19, Trader Joe’s, $6. Nov. 20, Amazing Saving & Shoprite, $6. Nov. 21, Walmart (North Bergen, NJ), $12. Nov. 22, Costco, $6. Pick up is at 10 a.m. for all trips except Walmart, which is 9:15 a.m.
Spanish Classes will be offered in the JASA NORC office. If interested in learning Spanish, please sign up before 12/5/24. Call 18-320-2066. Class will start on 12/5/24 at 2 p.m.
Common Pantry is scheduled for Tues., Nov. 26, & Tues., Dec. 17, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. For new applicants, contact JGrimes@JASA.org or call 929-399-1371 on Tues. & Thurs. Waiting list only.
Acupuncture w/Dr. Flora Lyando – Wed., Dec.
BARTOW CENTER CLOSED
(NORC) Line Dancing w/ Bartow Swingers (ONLY) 12-1 p.m., every Monday
Walk w/Odessa 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Blood Pressure, 12-1 p.m. (1st & 3r d 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 a.m.-11 a.m.
Bereavement Hour w/Dorine (1st Wed./month),12 p.m.-1 p.m.
Line Dancing w/Cynthia Wed. & Fri., 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m.
Dominoes w/Jose, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Arthritis exercise w/Damion, 10-11:15 a.m.
Visual Arts w/Laura, (via Zoom) 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
“Hooked on Happy” & Knitting/ Crocheting w/Lynne & Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Card Games w/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 Satur days
1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., in the back of JASA NORC of fice
4. Call JASA NORC for an appointment at 718-3202066. 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Bartow OAC Fundraising Raffle – Prize 65” TV. One ticket for $2 or three tickets for $5. Drawing: December 20. Tickets on sale at the Bartow OAC only. Caringkind – The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving Rep. will be in the Bartow main office every third Monday of the month, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., for Alzheimer & Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation and 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
Mindful Mornings Tai Chi
9 a.m.-10 a.m.
Line Dance w/Sassy 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Ageless Facials & Self Care
1 p.m.- 3 p.m. (Appointments only)
Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Movies w/Dennis, 1 p.m.3 p.m.
Never Too Old to Learn Spanish, 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 35
Bridge to Care Arthritis Exer cise, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45
Technology Lab w/Steve 1-2 p.m.
Hair Car e 4 U 9-11 a.m. (appt. only)
Trip: Katz Deli
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Str etch /Tone w/Ola 10-11 a.m.
Bodies in Motion w/Ola, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Prize BINGO & Boar d Games, 2-3 p.m.
Art Lounge w/Tijay, 2-3 p.m.
Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Salsa Dance w/ George 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Fit For Life Exercise w/Gail, 1-2 p.m.
Coloring for Calmness, 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Chess Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Blood Pressure Screening, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Health & Wellness 2.0- The
Art of Journaling, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Let’s Get It On Zumba 1 p.m.-2 p.m.
number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.
Line Dance w/Bartow Swingers – Wed. & Fri., 12-1 p.m., Dreiser Loop Aud. A.
Notary – JASA NORC Office: On vacation until Dec. 4. Dreiser OAC: Weds., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-320-1345 for an appointment, Rm. 7. 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
Trader Joe’s, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
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: Dr eiser23
Blood Pressure w/Linda, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Piano Sing Along, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2
Nutrition Presentation, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Meeting ID: 816 1164 3463; Passcode: dreiser23
Smartphone & Tablet Literacy Class w/ Julesa, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Yoga w/Adira, 1:15-2:15 p.m., Rm. 2
Leisure TV, 9-10 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
OAC Council Meeting, 11 a.m.12 p.m.
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.
Massage Therapy w/Diana, 10 a.m.12 p.m., Rm. 2 (Once a month)
Bead & Jewelry w/Brenda, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Arthritis Exercise w/Damion 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. C Fall Pr evention Presentation w/ Terry, 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Drama Club, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Rm. 4 Self Defense w/Jimmy 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2 (twice a month)
Walmart (NJ), 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Game Time Checkers, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Current Events, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Manicure Services, 1:30-3:30 p.m. (Twice a month)
Body in Motion w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. C Leisure TV Time, 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
*Returning* Sewing Class w/Joy, 9 a.m.-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, 1:20-2:50 p.m., Rm. 2
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: Comforting Lentil & Bean Chili, Brown Rice, Roasted Eggplant NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Catfish, Chinese Style Spaghetti, Oriental Blend Vegetables
NO DINNER SERVED
LUNCH: KOSHER: Turkey Burger w/ Whole Wheat Hamburger Bun, Baked Red Potato Wedges, Cabbage Carrot Slaw. NONKOSHER: Aromatic Lentil Stew w/Carrots & Turnips, White Rice, Steamed Cauliflower
DINNER: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: Turkey Burger w/Bun, Baked Red Potato Wedges, Cabbage & Carrot Slaw, Apple; NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Cat-Fish, Chinese Style Spaghetti, Oriental Blend Vegetable, Apple
LUNCH: KOSHER: Beef Stew, Yellow Rice, California Blend Vegetables; NONKOSHER: Spanish Style Beef Stew, Vegetable Mix, Mashed Potatoes
DINNER: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: Beef Stew, Yellow Rice California Blend Vegetables, Banana; NON-KOSHER: Lentil Stew w/ Carrots & Turnips, White Rice, Steamed Cauliflower
LUNCH: KOSHER: Apricot Glazed Salmon, Baked Sweet Potato, Prince Edward Blend Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Jerk Chicken, Black Beans & Rice, Steamed Broccoli
DINNER: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: Apricot Glazed Salmon, Baked Sweet Potato, Prince Edward Blend Vegetable, Orange; NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Beef Stew, Homemade Mashed Potato, Mixed Vegetable, Honey Dew Melon
LUNCH: Chicken Legs with Stewed Tomatoes, Bowtie Pasta w/ Kasha, Sautéed Green Beans w/ onions NON–KOSHER: Homemade Coconut Breaded, Fish, Brown Rice, Sautéed Spinach
DINNER: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: Chicken Legs in Stewed Tomato Sauce, Bowtie Pasta w/ Kasha, Sautéed Green Beans, Pear, 10 GRAB & GO; NON-KOSHER: Jerk Chicken, Black Beans & Rice, Steamed Broccoli, Banana
Saturday: Lunch served at 12:30 p.m. until finished: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage, Garlic Mashed Potato, Beet Salad, Applesauce
NON-KOSHER: Homemade Coconut Breaded Fish, Brown Rice w/Quinoa, Sautéed Spinach, Orange
American Legion Post 1871
Veterans Day Resource Fair – A Success!
Despite dismal attendance from elected officers, Board members, and the community-at-large, those who showed up witnessed the true spirit of Veterans Day. The morning commenced with dance and fitness exercises provided by Orisha Wholeness. They walked seven miles from the South Bronx to support our Post. Pictured above, from left to right, Legion-Auxiliary members Caroline Damon, Daisy Young and Lorraine Parker, Commander Codrington, Orisha’s leader Pascall Pierre and her dancing team. Due to bereavement, the Hair Madness Foundation was not in attendance. As part of their commitment to community services, 50 coupons were donated with an expiration date of 12/31/2024.
ing clinics in Rm. 41. This service will be available to District 12 veterans and their families every third Thursday of the month (with exceptions). For more information on the availability of VAP resources in our facility, please contact the Office of Kevin Riley at 718-684-5509 or visit www.bit.ly/ RileyVeteransAdvocacy for more information.
Our Post was proud to host, from our neighboring Truman High School, the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp (AFJROTC) to carry out Color Guard ceremonial duties (pictured above) There is a bright future for these youngsters who will one day contribute to the continued safeguarding of our freedom and democracy.
Concurrent with the fitness dancing sessions, resource tables were set up with a wealth of information to aid veterans and their families with food, housing, legal, and business assistance. Jahmal Yapp from the office of Councilmember Kevin Riley, and Matt Cruz, District Manager of Community Board #10, were also present at the Resource Fair (pictured above), as part of the cadre of information resources in attendance. Some of the other resource tables present at the commemoration were from the Office of Senator Jamaal Bailey, the NYC Department of Small Business Services, the NYC Department of Veterans Services, the NYC Mayor’s Public Engagement Unit, the NYS Department of Veterans Services, and the Veterans Advocacy Project (VAP).
Our Post recently partnered with VAP, thanks to Cynthia Prisco from the office of Councilmember Kevin Riley, to provide legal services and screen-
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, Rm. 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: 646568-7788, 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 857-3570254, 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.
Tomorrow, Sunday, November 17, we will celebrate the Church’s 53rd Anniversary. The 11 a.m. guest preacher will be Rev. Dr. Calvin R. Kendrick, pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Bronx, NY. All are invited to attend.
This week’s events
Wednesday: Bible Study Class at 1p.m. on Zoom
Thursday: Prayer Warriors Prayer Service at 12 p.m., on the church conference call line. At 2 p.m., the Circle of Grace Knit and Crochet Group will meet in-person at the church, in Rm. 51.
Friday: Mid-Morning Prayer Service at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Evening Prayer Service. All on the church conference call line.
The next CCBC Food Giveaway will be distributed on Friday, November 22, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop. Kindly note the new time change. Please remember to bring your own bag, and perhaps a cart. Some products can be heavy.
The Gospel Line Dance Class will meet on Saturday, November 23, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Einstein Community Center in Rm. 35. There is no fee for this class. Come pray, dance and worship the Lord.
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
The afternoon celebration culminated with ceremonial reminders from our invited guests about the significance of America’s celebration of Veterans Day, honoring military veterans, and patriotic reminders of the true meaning of this celebratory occasion. Thank you: Marvin L. Walton, Riverbay Executive General Manager; Mary Pearson, Riverbay Board Director; George Latimer, our U.S. Representative-Elect; Gene DeFrancis, Commander, American Legion – Bronx County; Dr. Odomode Oloruntoba, Post 1871 Immediate Past Commander.
A hearty thank you to Chick-fil-A in Bay Plaza for providing sandwiches. Final acknowledgement is to the Auxiliary Team. Pictured at right is President Frances Wilson and Daisy Young, who among others, supported the registration of guests in attendance. Again, thanks to Cynthia Prisco for managing the serving of refreshments and other coordination in support of the successful event.
Contact Us: American Legion Post 1871, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 41, Bronx, NY 10475. Phone: 718-320-8165. Email: post1871@oponline.net. Website: www.legion.org
—Antonio Codrington
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-filled 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
“But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me.” Psalm 13:5-6 NIV
Most of us know what it means to face days when we are physically, emotionally, and spiritually exhausted. Sadly, under those circumstances, it is common to feel as though God has forgotten us. However, Scripture reassures us that it is impossible for God to forget His people. His love for believers is far greater than any trial or hardship, and He will never forsake us.
At the beginning of Psalm 13:1-4, David cries out for God’s presence in his time of trouble. He seeks God’s help in his feelings of fear, anxiety, and sorrow. He also expresses his concerns about the success of his enemies and his feelings of humiliation. Yet, by the end of the psalm, David shifts his focus from his troubles and adversaries to the Lord’s unfailing love. He rejoices in the salvation God provides and praises Him for His goodness.
Psalm 13 serves as an example of what to do when we feel despair and the distance of God. David honestly cries out, expressing his pain because he cannot feel God’s presence during his trial. Though he may not fully understand why these things are happening, he continues to trust in God. He relies on the Lord’s unfailing love, knowing that God understands the limits of our understanding and our need to cry out in times of pain. Like David, God wants us to draw near to Him during times of trouble, sharing our concerns and anxieties openly. When we lay our burdens before Him, He answers our prayers, offering comfort, protection, deliverance, peace, and joy.
So, like David, we should trust God, express gratitude, and sing His praises in all circumstances.
Come and Receive a Blessing: All are Welcome!
Tuesday: English Bible Study at 6 p.m. via Zoom (904 4685745)
Thursday: Bilingual Prayer Service at 10 a.m.
Food Pantry: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Upcoming Events – Save the Dates
• Sunday, November 17
Bilingual Service at 11:15 a.m. Charge conference after service
• Saturday, Nov. 23
Anniversary of The Church/Thanksgiving Celebration at Pine Restaurant (Bronxdale Ave.) from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Final day of payment on November 17. See Karen or Jennie for more info.
• Sunday, November 24
Anniversary/Thanksgiving Bilingual Service at 11:15 a.m. Luncheon after Service.
––Grace Abadia
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 help, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate, or mail donations 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 on the ground floor of Building 27B. It is handicap accessible, no steps.
Phone #: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, 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, November 16, at 5:29 p.m.
Candle Lighting for Friday, November 22, at 4:12 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 Hillary Weber and all our members who will be celebrating their birthday in November. 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
St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church
St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. Email: stjosephe@aol.com. Church phone number: 718320-0844. 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-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, November 17, 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
Newsong Church
Bags of Blessing!
and talent where and when possible.
Tomorrow, Sunday, November 17, we will celebrate our very first Family and Friends Day. Please invite your parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren and friends.
Next Sunday, November 24, we will celebrate Harvest. Please remember to bring your gifts of food (cans and dry goods) as well as fruits and vegetables. Please also try to wear something from your native country, or if you were born in the U.S.A, an outfit from your state of birth.
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 payment of $35 is due now and the balance of $30 is due
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31 (NIV)
At Newsong Church, we do our best to live out Jesus’ words by loving God, loving others, and serving our community. This year, our church is excited to once again serve those in need with a Thanksgiving Day “Bag of Blessing.”
The “Bag of Blessing” will include the following groceries: frozen turkey, stuffing mix, canned green beans, canned corn, canned yams, instant potatoes, turkey gravy and canned cranberry sauce.
If you or someone that you know is in need, please contact our Central Team ASAP with the following information: name of recipient, address, phone and number in household.
Would you help us love our neighbor this Thanksgiving? Our Central Team is ready to assist you and answer any of your questions, so call or email us today!
About Us: Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We believe that every person can know God, find freedom, discover their purpose and make a difference in this world! No matter what you’ve been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family. Check us out – we’re located at 135 Einstein Loop!
Sunday Worship Experience – Every Sunday at 11 a.m., our Sunday worship experience starts with celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. Colossians 3:16 says, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” We sing to bring glory and honor to God and celebrate who He is and what He’s doing in our church!
Newsong Deaf Church, Rm. 35 – Our deaf worship experience is in ASL so that our deaf and hearing impaired can worship and fellowship in their own language!
Kidsong, Rm. 49 – We’ve created a place where children can have fun and learn about Jesus on their own level!
Against The Flow – Every Friday at 6:30 p.m., Rm. 42. ATF is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s middle and high school students will lead the next generation of the church and change the world. At ATF, our goal is to graduate students into a lifetime of following Jesus.
So, what are you waiting for? There’s a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! Do you live outside of Section 5? Remember, a church alive is worth the drive! Come and find hope. Come and find healing. Come and find freedom.
Contact Us: Mailing Address: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 42.; Phone: 917342-2559; Email: CentralTeam@newsong churchnyc.org; Prayer Request Line: Text “Prayer” to 877-899-7323; Website: www.newsongchurchnyc. org; Social Media: Facebook/IG/X: @newsongchurchbx; YouTube: Newsong Church NYC
Pastor Mike Tolone
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
Circle of Christ Church
Tension – A balanced relation between strongly opposing elements.
The Bible states that we are to see ourselves as dead to the power of sin and resurrected into a life of forgiveness resulting in good works. We are not bound to sin, yet it often beckons to us with its benefits, we fall into the vicious cycle of its grip and are weakened.
How do we resolve this tension? Roman 6:13,23 “Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness but offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Don’t be the Walking Dead!
The escape clause is given to us. Freely give yourself to God as a willing sacrifice ready to honor Him. The recompense of sin is a dead life, a zombie-like existence, a lot of movement with no fruit. God’s grace, his unmerited favor, however, leads to abundant life in all areas.
There is the upward call of Jesus Christ and the downward pull of the flesh. Do God’s work with right motives and intentions. 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 “By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 their work will be shown for what it is because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. 14 If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. 15 If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved— even though only as one escaping through the flames.”
We sometimes live with remorse, guilt, and shame and we carry those symptoms of a sinful world into our relationship with God. Jesus took the shame of the cross, we do not have to be present in the past.
Philippians 3:13 “Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead.”
Schedule (147 Dreiser Loop)
First Sunday of the month: Bilingual Communion Service, 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.-11:30 a.m.
Wednesday: Nonperishable food distribution, 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 of the month, 12-3 p.m.
Young Adults, third Saturday of the month, 12 p.m.-3 p.m.
Men’s Fellowship, fourth Saturday of the month, 12 p.m.-3 p.m.
Blessings in Christ,
––Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.
Pentecostal Tabernacle
The Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to worship service every Sunday morning at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, NY 10475.
Sunday School for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m. Midday service starts at 11:45 a.m.
Wednesday morning fasting and prayer service will be held from 11 a.m.12:30 p.m.
Regular prayer meetings and Bible Study will also be held every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m.
Worship service will be held every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.
All night services will be held on Zoom. Call: 6469313860 ID: 87548454513, Code: 850684#
Knowing the truth is vital to believers, but knowledge without application or practice is of little, if any, value. Practice is what gives value to Apostolic doctrine. James 4:17 states, “Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.”
As we consider the things that brought unity to the early church, we will be observing the same thing that brings unity to the church today. Truth never changes, and these core principles establish unity among believers as we, like the disciples of the first century, commit ourselves to live by them.
It is important that we maintain fellowship with one another. 1 John 1:7 states, “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his son cleanseth us from all sin.” Hebrews 10:25 states, “We should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”
As we continue to praise God and maintain a prayerful life, we will be able to grow stronger in God. Prayer will help us overcome temptation. Jesus said that men ought always to pray and not to faint. It is important for believers to pray together and worship together. Doing so builds strong bones of units, enhances and furthers the corporate work of the church and strengthens every individual believer.
The newly baptized believers at Pentecost went forth spreading the life changing gospel of Jesus Christ everywhere.
Acts 2:38-40 states, “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, “Save yourselves from this untoward generation.”
May the truths and blessings of the church continue through the mercy of the one who purchased our redemption with his own blood, Jesus Christ. Let us build a strong foundation that will stand firm. And not like the man in Luke 6:49 who built his house on the ground without a foundation.
––Rev. R. Sibblies
Community Protestant Church
Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family welcome you to worship with us. We are located at 2053 Asch Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. You may contact us by phone: 718-862-9172, fax: 718-671-4416 or email: Administration@thecpcchurch.org.
Worship Service
In-person Sunday Morning Worship at 11 a.m.; Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. Every Wednesday – “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer” at 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
Consecration Service
The doors of our new beginning at 2053 Asch Loop are now open. Our first morning worship service was a momentous and spirit-filled celebration. Father Franklin Reid, formerly of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, led the dedication with Deacon Frances Wilson, our last living founding member in attendance. Father Reid petitioned God on our behalf for our church to not just be a building, but a sanctuary, a relevant, safe place to worship, learn and fellowship. He prayed that our congregation maintain a united vision to follow Christ. Father Reid also prayed for a renewed commitment to be active beyond the church walls, to serve and effect change in the wider community. We are not afraid. We are on a mission for Jesus Christ. Come and explore with us the new possibilities at Community Protestant, a church of love and understanding.
To all of our sick and shut-in members, please know that we are praying for you and for your speedy recovery. We also extend our continued heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Rose Hillian on the passing of her husband, Harold, and to all who are in a season of mourning. The Memorial Service for Sister Ann Sinclair is today, at 12 p.m., at CPC.
We send our happiest and best happy birthday wishes to everyone celebrating their birthday this month.
“I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1
—Lexa M. Mingo
Church of the New Vision
Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Church of the New Vision and Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge welcome you to worship with us at 115 Einstein Loop North, Bronx, NY 10475. Church phone: 718-671-8746 and Pastor’s phone: 914-522-5039.
Our scripture verse for 2024 is: (Hebrews 12:2 NIV) “Let us fix 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 are required.
Noon Day Prayer Line, from 12 p.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Wednesday Night, Prayer Service and Bible Study, 7-8 p.m. The conference line number is 646-769-9900, Access Code: 3099388#. Please mute your phone.
November 10, 2024 Worship Service Theme: “God Be Praised.”
Scripture: (Psalm 145:1-10 KJV) “I will extol thee, my God, O King; And I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; And I will praise thy name for ever and ever. Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; And his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, And shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, And of thy wondrous works. And men shall speak of the might of the terrible acts: And I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, And shall sing of thy righteousness. The LORD is gracious, and full o compassion; Slow to anger, and of great mercy. The LORD is good to all: And his tender mercies are over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O LORD; And thy saints shall bless thee.”
Save the Dates
Saturday, November 16 – Church of the New Vision and Amen Ministries, Inc. invite the community to a “Health & Healing” free event, includes refreshments and a Gospel Concert, 10-3 p.m. For more information and assistance in registration, contact Pastor Adolphus: amenministriesrev314@gmail. com/315.639.7587; Health navigator: Shamika Adolphuschl.amenministries@ gmail.com, or Loretta Scott at ljscott_2000@yahoo.com. We look forward to you registering and attending.
July 6-13, 2025 – Celebrity Beyond, an eight-day/seven-night cruise from Miami. Ports of call: Nassau, Bahamas, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Inside Stateroom, $2656 per person; Ocean view, $2847 per person; Infinite Veranda, $2785 per person. Deposit: $500 per stateroom to reserve your room. Package 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 a speedy recovery for the sick and shut-in, and condolences to families who lost loved ones and good health and wellness for all. Please mail contributions, tithes and offerings to: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475. Thank you.
––Brenda Brown
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Office: 212-531-3792 Mobile: 917-560-6838 Toll Free: 855-369-9936 ExecutiveExoticLimo.com
RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE
If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by one of the following methods:
• Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services.com/riverbaycorp, to complete online disclosure form;
• Call independent third party whistleblower hotline: 1-833-290-0009 (English); 1-800-2161288 (Spanish);
• Email reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject);
• Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).