Co-op City Times 03/01/25

Management Report

(The following Management Report was presented at the February 26, 2025 Open Board Meeting held in the Bartow Center.)

Management Report

Marvin

Walton Executive General Manager

On behalf of Douglas Elliman Property Management, Managing Agent, we are delighted to present the Management Report for Riverbay Corporation for the period ending January 31, 2024.

This Management Report provides updates with the following elements:

• Public Safety – Peace Officer Staffing Levels

• 2025 Spotted Lanternfly Control Program

• Recycling Efforts in the Community

• 2-Year Budget Planning

• Convector initiatives

Public Safety Staffing

Peace Officer staffing levels in the Public Safety department are currently 77 or 82.7% of the 93 Peace Officer positions budgeted in the department. As of today, the following provides a summary of activities that took place since the last reporting period:

• 18 recruits started our in-house Peace Officer Training Academy on 2/3/2025.

• 1 former Peace Officer was reinstated on 2/3/2025.

• 1 former Peace Officer who attained their special status was reinstated on 2/23/2025.

• 16 vacancies will be advertised in March

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February 26th Gallery Session and Board Meeting held in Bartow Center

By ROZAAN BOONE

The Open Board meeting of Wednesday, Feb. 26, held in Rm. 31 in the Bartow Center, commenced promptly at 7 p.m. with the Gallery Session.

Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders opened the session and announced the first speaker, Jeffrey Mabry, who addressed a personal legal matter that is ongoing with Riverbay.

The second speaker, Ms. Barbara Rose, spoke about safety issues around the community, and smoking and vaping in public spaces, especially at Dreiser Loop.

Board President Saunders said that even though the Board would be voting on a smoking resolution that night, it does not cover public spaces in the manner that the speaker would like. “The city law apparently has sections that are specifically for around schools, churches, and certain places, but unfortunately, I don't think shopping centers are covered by that.”

and regulations. We need to do that for that mall in Dreiser,” said Director Johnson. “Who is going to shop over there with these types of conditions? … We need to definitely tighten up our policies here and make sure that we operate this community in a far better manner than what we're doing now.”

“We can have that discussion,” said Board Pres-

Director Daryl Johnson pointed out that Dreiser Mall belongs to Riverbay Corporation and agreed with the cooperator that something has to be done.

“If you look around our buildings, folks used to hang out there at night, all night long. Public Safety put a notice up around all buildings where folks used to hang out, ‘you cannot come around here like at 10 o'clock’. That mall belongs to us. Every mall across the United States, they have rules

Governor Hochul Provides Update on Congestion Pricing

By BRANDON ORTIZ

In a message to the MTA Board and New Yorkers on Wednesday, February 26, Governor Kathy Hochul reiterated her commitment to congestion pricing. The Governor attended Wednesday’s MTA Board meeting following last week’s announcement from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT), in which USDOT terminated the approval of the pilot for the Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP).

In her remarks, Governor Hochul provided a positive spin on the impact of congestion pricing, claiming the early returns from the program have been promising. She also offered her view of where public transit stands in terms of federal funding.

ident Saunders.

The next speaker, Lauren Lassiter, president of the Building 6 Association, spoke about a letter she received from Riverbay informing her that she would not be able to run for re-election because of non-compliance with responsibilities associated with her current role. Ms. Lassiter questioned the

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Riverbay Board of Directors Approves Two-Year Budget and Other Resolutions

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

The Riverbay Board of Directors held their Open Board Meeting at the Bartow Community Center on Wednesday, February 26. Before the Board voted on several resolutions, shareholders were able to address the Board and Riverbay Management during the Gallery Session.

After the Gallery Session was concluded, the meeting was then called to order by Board President Rod Saunders, who presented his President’s Report to the community before handing the mic over to Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton, who presented the Management Report.

After both reports were shared with the community, the first Emergency Resolution was brough forth by Riverbay Finance Director Averil James-Bonnette, who presented Emergency Resolution #25-05. This resolution pertained to Riverbay’s two-year budget for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 and Fiscal Year 2026/2027.

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“Public transit is facing an existential threat from Washington right now, whether it is the overall funding or whether it is the attack on congestion pricing…I had an interesting trip to the White House. I did my very best, but the fight is not over. I had considerable time in the White House and I want to thank my team for putting together what I envisioned. I said I want something that encapsulates in real simple terms, real nice pictures of what we’re getting with congestion pricing,” Gov. Hochul said.

For Fiscal Year 2025/2026, the proposed budget is $315,071,999, which includes $293,851,800 for operating expenses

Riverbay Board Directors met in open session in the Bartow Center on Feb. 26 to discuss and vote on several impactful resolutions.

Photo by Danielle Cruz

legality of the review process and her right to due process, asked to know what she is charged with and who her accuser is. She also produced a petition of support signed by 135 Building 6 households.

Board President Saunders replied that normally, the Board of Directors does not get involved with building association matters.

Riverbay General Counsel Jeff Buss said that he too does not recall the Board ever getting involved in matters concerning building associations but would look into the matter.

The next speaker, Junius Williams, thanked both current Board President Saunders and former Board President Sonia Feliciano for following through on his request to revisit a resolution for a no smoking policy which, he said, he had put in when he served on the Board.

“The only regret I have is that I didn’t put it before the corporation,” said Mr. Williams. “And if I would have, and I get a lot of bad feelings about it, because I can imagine the lives I would be able to save if I put it before the corporation instead of the Board.”

Mr. Williams added that this issue is personal to him because he has relatives who lost their lives to smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke. “So what I say to you is don’t worry so much about the enforcement of it, because we have 15,000 plus apartments here, and basically, I say more than two-thirds of them are law abiding. So can you imagine the lives you would save just by those few people actually adhering to the no smoking ban?”

attendant program was discontinued was because it was becoming unsustainable for the corporation to continue paying for it.

“But weren’t we paying money towards it out of our carrying charges?” asked Ms. Davis. “We were all charged—each building has a hundred and seventy-two apartments—twenty dollars per apartment went towards the program.”

Shareholder Crystal Davis asked about the possibility of having security officers in the lobbies as a deterrent to crimes happening in residential buildings as reported in the weekly CCPD blotter published in the Co-op City Times

“Previously, us, I mean us, shareholders, paid extra money attached to carrying charges to help with the lobby attendant program. We need security in the lobbies because I feel for the safety of the elderly, women and children,” said Ms. Davis. “And this applies to the garages also, which are scary at night…The security officers can help with the verticals and report if an incident happens in the building. Having someone on site will get help to the cooperatives quicker. Is this suggestion feasible and can it be done without the shareholders paying any increases towards it?”

Board President Saunders explained that one of the reasons why the lobby

GOT FOOT PAIN?

“No, that’s incorrect,” said Board President Saunders. “The way it works out is that everything that we pay for comes out of operating expenses. And so whether it’s work that needs to be done in your building or whether you’re paying employees, it comes out of our operating expenses, which we all contribute to. So it wasn’t a set aside amount for that [lobby attendants]. The idea was that we have tough decisions to make because coming out of Covid, we had just laid out about twice as much for Local Law 11 that was the brick and facade work with the scaffolding going up and down the building. So, if you combine that with the elevator project that we had, which was about $41 million, we spent – over three, four years – a lot of money and there needed to be some cuts made.”

Board President Saunders went on to state

that the police reports the Board receives from Management do not bear out that there is an uptick in crime in Co-op City, adding that the corporation cannot hire a security officer only for some buildings and that the expense simply cannot be funded at this time. “However, what we can do is we can have, I’ll have our executive general manager to make sure if there are degrees of incidents that are reported in buildings, we can have those buildings surveilled a little stronger. As far as the garage attendants, if you are anywhere but right in front of them, they wouldn’t hear you anyway. So what we’ve done is we’ve installed cameras and we’ve installed telephones for that.”

The Board president also informed the community that when CCPD gets its full complement of officers, the corporation would be better positioned to get more officers out of cars and back in the community, even possibly doing verticals in the buildings.

Board Secretary Bernard Cylich asked for the crime rate since the lobby and garage attendants were dismissed during Covid.

Interim Chief of CCPD Frank Torres responded that the crime rate in Co-op City remains stable and low for many years and although the community is not crime-free, it is a low crime area. As for why the local 45th Precinct does not assign more personnel in the development, Interim Chief Torres said that the 45th Pct. is also short staffed, nevertheless, more officers were indeed assigned to supplement CCPD’s manpower since the recent shootings that occurred on the campus.

“They have been in every location throughout the day, seven days a week, to help us out with overlapping uniformed presence,” said Interim Chief Torres.

Director Michelle Marbury said that the issue of lobby attendants often comes up, however, she reminded shareholders that ultimately, they will, collectively, have to pay for the service if it’s decided that they should return. She urged shareholders to come out to their buildings meetings and to start uniting. “My point is, we’ve talked about it, I’d like to have it, but everybody’s got to agree that we have to pay for it.”

The next Gallery speaker, Ms. Gretchen Hazel, asked why it is that only two Board directors write regular viewpoints in the Co-op City Times, Directors Daryl Johnson and Leslie Peterson, to share information with shareholders about issues that directly impact their quality of life?

“You all ran on an obligation to serve the community,” said Ms. Hazel. “We don’t have any way of hearing from any of you. We can write to you, but we need to uphold your fiduciary duty to this community.”

Ms. Hazel listed a number of issues that should also be addressed. Among those she highlighted were convectors leaks, pipe bursts, unprofessional personnel who perform work that has to be corrected or redone, tubs and toilet drainage problems, crime, unprotected lobbies, cheap flooring, flushing kitty litter down toilets, and level of services being received from the management company.

“If you go on Douglas Elliman’s site, you will see no mention of Co-op City, none whatsoever,” said Ms. Hazel. “Their properties are in tip-top shape, but Co-op City isn’t, and everybody knows that. So why can’t we get, we’re paying for this, as cooperators, we’re paying for this and we don’t get the same services. Don’t we deserve that?”

Board Director Jacqueline Smith, chair of the Riverbay Security Committee, explained that because of the long election period last year, committee chairs were not seated until the end of November 2024; the Security Committee had its first meeting in December.

“We have been working feverishly…We’ve had meetings with several people, and we are going to meet in March with the 45th Pct. commanders and everybody,” said Director Smith. “I’m hoping by April 1st, the entire committee will be here, and we will be able to present six things that this committee has accomplished in 90 days, because most of the things that we need as shareholders to feel safe are budget items.”

Director Smith thanked Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton for his cooperation and assistance with some priority items.

“I thought I was going to have to go through a long process, one of them

COMBING

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

Girls Scout Cookie Time!

Co-op City’s Girl Scour Troop 1200 will be in Rm. 31 at Bartow Center today, Saturday, March 1, 12 p.m. Be sure to come out and support these young ladies!

Summer Youth Employment Program

Applications are now open for NYC’s 2025 Summer Youth Employment Program. This program connects NYC youths between the ages of 14 and 24 with career exploration opportunities and paid work experiences. To apply visit https://bit. ly/4gW1NAy or scan the QR code here. The deadline to apply is Feb. 28, 2025.

Avoiding Scams

If it sounds too good to be true, if you are being pressured to make an immediate decision, or if you were contacted unexpectedly, STOP – hang up the phone or walk away. Immediately speak to someone you trust – a friend, family member, neighbor or even CCPD. Call (718) 671-3050 or send an email to info@ccpd.us.

Read & Follow the Co-op Times Online

CO - OP CITY TIMES 2ND FRONT PAGE

OMNY Fare Readers Keep Falling Off

By BRANDON ORTIZ

As the MTA continues efforts to fully transition away from MetroCards, a new issue is impacting that transition as fare readers on buses keep falling off their mounts.

Fixing the hardware problem will not be cheap and the MTA will have to shell out $4.5 million to “replace bus validator mounting hardware with a new bracket system and an updated wiring configuration,” according to MTA documents.

The MTA first recorded the issue in January of 2021 when “cracks were found affecting a large number of the mounting brackets resulting in the bus validators falling off their mounts.” Subsequently, the MTA had a dispute with the contractor for the installation project, Cubic Transportation Systems, over which party was at fault for the broken mounts. MTA officials argued that the issue was a design defect, however Cubic Transportation Systems claimed that the issue stemmed from the MTA’s maintenance of the OMNY fare readers.

Ultimately, the two sides reached an agreement in the form of the $4.5 million contract that the MTA Board voted on and approved on February 26.

Cubic Transportation Systems will provide “the new

Congestion –––

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bracket to the entire bus fleet, provide an extended warranty for a period of 16 months and address wiring issues associated with the bus validator installation, all within nine months,” as stipulated in the contract. All 11,359 OMNY fare readers will be upgraded with the new mounting brackets.

Installing OMNY fare readers began in 2018 and continued into 2021. Initially, the MTA was planning to completely phase out the MetroCard by 2023, but that transition was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

In May of 2023, MTA chair and CEO Janno Lieber touched on the future of the MetroCard and fully integrating OMNY during an MTA Board meeting.

“We’re not setting a drop-dead date for pulling back on MetroCard. We’re going to continue to work with every aspect of New York’s transit ridership to make sure it’s accepted, it becomes standard and people get it and have full information. We’re not going to pull the plug on MetroCard at any date that we’ve set at this time,” Lieber said.

Paid ridership on buses still continues to be a thorn in the side for the MTA, albeit with recent data pointing to a slight reversal in that trend. Last month, the MTA highlighted that fare evasion on buses decreased from 48% to 44%.

Deepest Condolences

She then showed the rest of the MTA Board the reading material she presented to President Trump. The pamphlet included data the MTA believes is as a result of congestion pricing. The Governor then pivoted to the upcoming legal battle that will determine the fate of congestion pricing.

“We’re not done. We are in court. We have said that, you may have asked for — orderly cessation was the phrase that came in the letter to us — orderly cessation. I will propose something in the alternative: orderly resistance. We will keep standing up for New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul went on to say.

On February 20, Gloria Shepherd, executive director of the Federal Highway Administration, sent a letter to the heads of the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) and MTA Bridges and Tunnels. The letter gave a deadline for NYSDOT to end the program. “NYSDOT and its project sponsors must cease the collection of tolls on Federal-aid highways in the CBDTP area by March 21, 2025,” Ms. Shepherd wrote in the letter.

While the case plays out in court, the MTA plans to keep the tolling cameras on, with MTA CEO Janno Lieber saying last Wednesday, “we’re not turning off the tolls until there’s a verdict.”

Congestion pricing officially started on January 5 and the MTA believes the recent trends for commuters driving into the city are a direct result of the program. One such claim Chair Lieber highlighted during the Board meeting on Wednesday, was a decrease in the number of cars in the congestion relief zone. Specifically, the MTA claimed that there are approximately 10% less cars driving in the congestion relief zone since the start of the CBDTP, which equates to 60,000 cars.

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

Bartow Mall Parking Alert

Shareholders, guests and shoppers are reminded that there is a two-hour parking limit in the Bartow Mall. Parking is for the exclusive use of customers while shopping within the Bartow Mall, with a posted two-hour limit. Vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Our beloved Geraldine Zatrine passed away on Thursday, February 20, at approximately 4 p.m. She has been a resident of Coop City, Einstein Loop Section 5, for over 65 years. She was 98 years old. In memory of a life beautifully lived, a heart so deeply loved, though she is no longer here, her legacy of kindness and love will forever be inscribed in our hearts. Our paths may have changed as life goes on, but the fondness and bondbetween us remained strong.

Geraldine Zartrine will always be missed by her friends; Sister Sally Asiedu; nieces, Ellen, Kelly and Elizabeth; dear cousin, Joyce Miller, and friend, Monica Smith. May she rest in peace.

Community Conversations: Aging in Place

New York City Councilmember Kevin C. Riley, in partnership with Riverbay and the NYC Department for the Aging, held a Community Conversation forum on Wed., Feb. 26, in the Bartow Center, Rm. 28. Shareholders were invited to stop by and engage in a discussion about “aging in place” and provide recommendations about what senior services they wished to see in the community. Some of those recommendations included providing and connecting shareholders with resources that focus on dementia and home care services.

“We wanted to host that conversation in Co-op City because we all know that Co-op City is the largest retirement community in the nation,” said Councilmember Riley. “We have a lot of seniors here that are focused on senior services, quality of life, public safety, and what we wanted to do was get as much recommendations as possible.”

Photos by Danielle Cruz

Management ––– (Continued from page 1)

2025 for recruitment for the next Training Academy.

2025 Spotted Lanternfly Control Program

Spotted lanternfly is an insect pest that feeds on trees and other variety of plants such as maple, grape vine, hops, walnut, and fruit trees. The spotted lanternfly is a one generation pest with eggs, nymphs, and adults. Spotted lanternflies hide in egg masses of 30-50 covered in a brown mud-like substance. Egg laying occurs in late September to early December. Eggs can be found on the smooth bark of host trees, rocks, lawn furniture, outdoor equipment, etc.

The Exterminating department has developed a control program to target each stage of the spotted lanternfly. This program will evolve through the following three (3) rounds beginning early Spring through late Fall:

• Round 1 – March to April: Inspection of tree trunks and branches, rocks, out-door equipment, etc., to identify and destroy egg masses.

• Round 2 – May to June: Applying insecticides to tree trunks, branches, and shrubs (This application will target the nymphs, newly hatched spotted lanternfly).

• Round 3 – July to Oct: Continuing the application of insecticides to tree trunks, branches, and shrubs (This application will target the nymphs and adults)

The selected product for treatment is called Telstar P. This product is effective against all life stages of the spotted lanternfly. This is contact insecticide with a 14–21-day residual effect. It is also a repellent that keeps the pest away.

The program will be focused on trees and shrubs surrounding the buildings. The building exterior walls will be treated to prevent or kill lanternflies gathering for warmth. Please note: This program does not provide treatment for shareholders’ apartments, terraces, and other personal spaces.

The program will be implemented during the week days. Applications will be conducted during the hours from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. All safety protocols will be adhered to during the treatment process and applicators/staff will wear the required PPE. Notification signs will be placed around the treatment area to advise shareholders and their families and pets to keep away from these areas. Public Safety will be notified to restrict shareholders who may want to interfere or disrupt the treatment process. Management kindly asks for cooperation from shareholders as we work diligently to eradicate spotted lanternflies from the community.

Monthly reports will be generated to provide information on the areas treated and the status of any infestations that may form in the community.

Recycling Program

In order to comply with Local Law 50 of 2007, the Janitorial Services department reported to the NYC Sanitation Recycling Program that during calendar year 2024 (January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024), Co-op City processed the following recyclables:

Management would like to commend shareholders and their families for contributing to the recycling efforts in the Co-op City community.

2-Year Budget Planning

Board Directors and Management have completed the budget projections for the 2-Year Operating and Capital Budget for the Corporation and a resolution will be presented Wednesday night, Feb. 26, for Board consideration. It is important to note that the proposed 2-Year budget does not require an increase in carrying charges to maintain a balanced budget through March 31, 2027.

In summary, the Comprehensive Operating and Capital Budget for Riverbay Corporation is estimated in the amount of $315,071,999 for Fiscal Year 25/26 and $324,436,452 Fiscal Year 26/27. The budget is inclusive of the following two expense categories:

• The Operating Budget in the amount of $293,851,800 for Fiscal Year 25/26 and $293,508,700 for Fiscal Year 26/27; funding for the Operating Budget provides direct and indirect services to the shareholders of the Corporation.

• The Capital Budget in the amount of $21,220,199 for Fiscal Year 25/26 and $30,927,752 for Fiscal Year 26/27; funding for the Capital Budget provides necessary infrastructure repairs throughout the Co-op City community.

Management appreciated the opportunity to partner with Board Directors and Building & Townhouse Associations to estimate the proposed Comprehensive Operating and Capital Budget for the Corporation. This budget represents a pathway to sustaining this important affordable house stock for generation to come.

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Riverbay Directors’ Corner

Rozaan Boone, Director, Co-op City Times

My name is Rozaan Boone, and I’m the editor of the Co-op City Times, the official weekly newspaper of Riverbay Corporation. Founded in 1966, the newspaper has been instrumental in documenting the development’s rich history, policy decisions of the Board of Directors, management initiatives, and the voices, challenges and achievements of generations of shareholders. It is your primary source of news and information from the Riverbay Board, Management and the New York State supervisory agency – the Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR).

The newspaper is also a weekly center of community engagement. It allows shareholders to relate with and support each other through publication of letters, personal news as well as articles from active building associations, religious institutions and a variety of certified clubs and organizations, formed by shareholders to enrich their daily lives. In addition, it is the medium through which businesses can solicit shareholders’ patronage by purchasing advertisements in the newspaper and on the Crawler – an additional source of revenue for Riverbay Corporation. And, as a community newspaper, we encourage shareholders to support businesses that support your community and local journalism.

Besides the physical newspaper which is delivered to residential buildings and community centers on Saturdays, the Co-op City Times is available online on the Issuu platform (issuu.com/cctimes) and on social media on X, Instagram, Threads and BlueSky, @coopcitytimes. Be sure to follow the newspaper to stay updated; boost online readership, which is vital to our advertising program; and capture data and analytics so we can identify and evaluate viable alternative technological options to keep our operating expenses down.

Co-op City Times personnel compile and write content for the Riverbay website at coopcity.com; and operate and manage the Riverbay Crawler. Our Media team records and produces audio and video content for broadcast on the Crawler and YouTube channel, another of Riverbay’s communications assets that we manage. We also collaborate with other departments to broadcast the monthly Board meetings and other programs.

We are acutely cognizant that our assignments are forward facing, and work diligently to ensure professional standards that shareholders can be proud of; that information is factually accurate, reliable, respectful, and importantly, in accordance with standing Riverbay Board resolutions regarding content, tone and tenor of the newspaper; and that the end products do not contain material that could harm or otherwise negatively impact Riverbay Corporation and its shareholders.

The Co-op City Times, like other community newspapers, engages readers in focused discussions and unites residents around common goals and aspirations. If you are already a reader, thank you for your support; we invite those who aren’t, to check us out. An informed community is a participatory community.

Be sure also to tune in regularly to the Crawler, visit the website and YouTube channel for all your Co-op City news so you can stay apprised and be better positioned to make informed decisions on issues that affect your quality of life.

Meeting ––– (Continued from page 2)

being cameras in Dreiser Loop,” said Director Smith. “The shareholders made it very clear to their representatives on the Security Committee that Dreiser Loop is a hotspot, and they want change. So we changed our whole presentation of 27 security concerns that were captured from all of you by a survey we did, and we moved yours, Dreiser Community Center, to February 4th’s meeting. So again, thank you, Mr. Walton. He’s already approved two budget items.”

Director Smith also said that once the committee accomplishes some of its goals, an article will be written in the newspaper.

Director Lynette Wright informed Ms. Hazel that some of the issues she talked about, such as convector leaks, are published in the management reports in the Co-op City Times.

“Also to note, is that even though we are not necessarily all writing, we are, … so many of us are working, so there’s still work, as Jacqueline said, that is being done behind the scenes,” Director Wright said. “It’s also important to note that in the writing, our writing is our opinion, writing is not necessarily fact, and I just want to be clear about that, that every director has their opinion of certain things, that does not necessarily indicate that it’s a factual situation.”

Riverbay Board President Saunders added: “This Board is transparent. There may not be as many articles out there as you’d like but I want to tell you, this is one of the hardest working boards that you can imagine. They are diligent in coming to meetings, they are participating heavily in things such as the budget and the processes that we have to go through to meet various mandates that are put to us by the state and the city. We meet with our elected representatives when necessary. And we all meet and talk about the concerns of the shareholders. After all, Riverbay Corporation is not management, Riverbay Corporation is you, the shareholders. And we work for you very hard. There are very many nights when we leave at 12, 11:30, 12:30 at night. We don’t always write about what we do, but we’re working very hard for you.”

Mr. Saunders also reminded shareholders that they have the opportunity to attend Gallery Sessions and asked any question. “As far as the workforce, Management is aware of complaints that are made, and they’re working very hard on their correction,” he said. “I can’t speak on it now because the last conversation that we had was an executive session but I will tell you that changes are coming and I think that everyone will be very happy for it. Management is doing a good job at making sure. Even the executive general manager has been here a year and he’s made major impacts on the way that this corporation is run…Sometimes we have contractors who need to be leaned on a little harder and that is to do a better job, but we’ll get that done for you. We live here, too, we’re shareholders just like you, and the same issues that you have, we have. So we’re working in your best interest.”

The Board president asserted: “This is the best, it’s the safest, and it’s the most affordable community for what you get here any place else in the city of New York. There are things that we have every day that shareholders take for granted but I want to tell you that we are a great community. We’ve got a low crime rate, we’ve got excellent schools… We’re in good hands here. Is there room for improvement? Probably a lot of it but we’re working hard for you every day.”

Director Wright circled back to the complaint about repairs having to be redone multiple times in apartments, asking Executive General Manager Walton if these cases are being noted.

“It has been brought to our attention that that’s been happening but we do not,” said Mr. Walton. “We track all of our work orders in the system. It’s not an analysis that has been done, but we’re willing to take a look at it.”

Continuing, Mr. Walton added: “I still will say this to the shareholders, and I encourage you greatly to continue to contact the Call Center on any issues in your apartment. If there are situations that happen like that, please bubble those up, even if you have to work with your building association president, but that information should make its way to the management office. We can check our work order system to see how frequently the same issues are being addressed in apartments. It’s something that we haven’t done, but I’m glad to take a look at that.”

“I think that would be good not only just for the services that we’re offering in quality service but also from a fiduciary aspect in that it does go to the point of waste so if we can investigate that, that would be advantageous,” said Director Wright.

Francine Reva Jones, the next speaker, asked if those who are eligible for succession rights go through the Riverbay new shareholder orientation process to be informed about the community’s rules and regulations? She also thanked Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith III for the virtual Income Affidavit information session held on Feb. 25. “It was really great,” she said.

In addition, Ms. Jones asked for an update on Riverbay’s exclusive marketing agreement with Cablevision that expired last year, before yielding the rest of her time to a fellow shareholder, Amanda Cintron-Ortega, whose two children were stopped recently by ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) while they were driving in Co-op City.

“I just want to know what, if anything, the precinct that belongs to our district is doing, the same thing with Co-op City. What are the regulations? What are they going to do with regards to individuals being stopped and asked for

identification in regards to immigration?” asked Ms. Cintron-Ortega.

Taking the last question first, General Counsel Buss said that he is unaware of ICE stopping anyone at Riverbay and asked Ms. Cintron-Ortega for her contact to gather more information.

Ms. Cintron-Ortega offered that her background is in labor law so she has educated her children on how to behave if they are stopped by ICE. She recounted an incident where an officer told an individual he had stopped that his brake light was out and when the individual stepped out of his car to check, his door brushed the officer. The officer then claimed the individual assaulted him and suddenly ICE and two other police cars arrived on the scene.

“So, I just want to know if maybe some training can be done where the cooperators can be told that A) this already has happened because it has happened to us, and B) what do we do with regard to them?” asked Ms. Cintron-Ortega.

Board President Saunders said that he would reach out to Congressman George Latimer’s office to see if a townhall meeting can be set up to discuss the topic.

First Vice President Leslie Peterson, who is also president of the Building 13 Association and president of the Co-op City branch of the NAACP, noted that she has been able to receive some instruction in these circumstance.

“Basically it’s kind of disheartening, but the basic instruction that we’ve been given is not to give any information to anyone, about anybody’s circumstance, who they are, or anything of that nature,” said Director Peterson. “They also said that if somebody wants to come into your office or your place of business, that they’re not supposed to be able to do that, unless they have a jurisdictional warrant…However, they also mentioned if they don’t, because of the nature of their badge and their authority, to not get into any kinds of scuffle, one way or the other, with them back and forth. So it’s kind of disheartening, but I think in some circumstances, we probably will be at the whim or the discretion of whoever that officer is who is asking the questions, or attempting to make any type of arrest or apprehension. And so, …most locations are having people from immigration services coming and really speaking because most people don’t really know what to do …”

Second Vice President Leah Graham agreed with Director Peterson on the importance of a meeting to make cooperators aware of their rights and how to behave if approached by ICE. “There is profiling going on and we are aware of

(Continued on page 13)

– • Letters to the Editor • –

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the authors. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Gratitude to CCPD

To the Editor:

On Sunday, someone rang my bell around 10:45 p.m. I approached my door and asked who it was, and he did not answer. I stared at him through the peephole and asked again who it was and for him to get away from my door. He then banged on my door, insisting that I open it. I asked what he wanted and who he was looking for and he replied that he wanted a light for his cigarette. I told him to give me a second while I called the police to do him the honor. He then proceeded to the elevator and kicked the apartment door adjacent to the elevators. As he left the premises, he also took a package from the lobby. During this time, I was communicating with CCPD and gave a description of the individual and let them know he had taken a package before he proceeded out the door towards Building 30B.

I waited for about half an hour before calling CCPD to find out what happened and I was asked if I wanted officers to be dispatched to my home. Once the officers

came, I reiterated what happened and they told me that the individual was an emotionally disturbed person and asked if I was aware that he had been caught, which I wasn't. I was happy to hear this since this was a very traumatic and frightening experience for me.

In retrospect to this incident, I believe it's time for Riverbay to grant cooperators more security. All buildings should have a security presence, especially at night when the riff raffs are at prey.

I would also like to see CCPD follow-up with cooperators by taking a written report and letting us know the outcome of the incident reported. It will certainly help to put one at ease. I say this because I only found out the individual was caught and that the package was returned because I called back to find out what happened.

I'm still very thankful that CCPD acted swiftly in apprehending the suspect.

—Ivonne B. Cruz

Co-op City Times

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Danielle Cruz Managing Editor

Brandi Simpson

Junior Associate Editor

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

John Crow

New Media Producer

Sheldon Green

SUBMITTED BY: Andrea Leslie

SECONDED BY: Rod Saunders

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 26th, 2025

WHEREAS, on October 11, 2023, the Board approved Contract #3903 via Resolution #23-49, for the Printing of the Co-op City Times, to Richner Communications, Inc. for two (2) years at a total cost of $288,519; and WHEREAS, the contract was executed on November 17, 2023,and the contract will expire on November of 2025; the current balance in the contract is approximately $42,000 which should be depleted by March of 2025; and WHEREAS, Management is requesting a change order to add $132,772.87 in additional funding to the contract in order to cover the projected cost and services

SUBMITTED BY: Leslie Peterson

SECONDED BY: Anika Green-Watson & Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: February 26th, 2025

WHEREAS, on October 10, 2013, Riverbay Corporation granted the Building 13 Association, Inc., permission to use a portion of Riverbay’s property located on Co-op City Boulevard, within Block 5141, Lot 443 as a community garden known as the Rivers Run Community Garden, for a two year term; and WHEREAS, on May 28, 2015, by Resolution 1531, Riverbay granted the Building 13 Association, Inc., a ten (10) year no cost Agreement to continue to use a portion of Riverbay’s property located on Co-op City Boulevard, within Block 5141, Lot 443, as a com-

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order #1 request for additional funding of $132,772.87 plus tax under contract # 3903 for the Printing of the Co-op City Times with Richner Communications, Inc. be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

munity garden known as the Rivers Run Community Garden; and

WHEREAS, the Board desires to grant the Building 13 Association, Inc., the continued right to use the property known as the Rivers Run Community Garden as a community garden for an additional ten (10) years, commencing May 1, 2025 and ending April 30, 2035, at no cost to the Building 13 Association; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board hereby approves a second ten (10) year Agreement with the Building 13 Association, Inc., to continue to use the same portion of Riverbay’s property now occupied by the Rivers Run Community Garden, located on Co-op City Boulevard, within Block 5141, Lot 443, as a community garden, from May 1, 2025 through and including April 30, 2035, at no cost to the Building 13 Association, Inc.

(See page 10 for more Resolutions) First Reading

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 32

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 32 A & B

4180 & 4160 Hutchinson River Parkway

Current Lease

Expiration Date: May 31, 2025

3-Year Expiration Date: May 31, 2028

Multi-Media Advertising Manager

Brandon Ortiz Media Assistant

P.M. Campbell

Media Assistant

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

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

Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corp. of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available. The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

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

Fire Safety: Fire Exit Plan -- Part 2

By SGT. JOSEPH VARGAS

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

Tips/Concerns/Comments: info@ccpd.us

Follow on X: @CCPDnyc

Visit us at: www.ccpd.us

Our last report emphasized the importance of having a fire exit plan. The number one goal of the exit plan is to exit immediately and expeditiously leaving belongings behind, closing all doors as you move out of the area. Once safe and away from a fire or smoke condition, immediately call 911 which will cause FDNY, CCPD and at times, NYPD – all first responders trained to evacuate and coordinate with each other to preserve life.

The absolute best way to preserve life is to plan ahead and prevent a fire altogether, if possible, or be alerted and start the evacuation process long before a fire grows large enough to cause casualties. Maintain equipment designed for fire safety, and take precautions in the home to prevent fires.

Smoke Detectors

The NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development details the best use and placement of fire detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in the home. NYC law requires landlords of homes to install smoke alarms outside of each sleeping room or in some homes, within the sleeping room and 15 feet from the entrance of the home. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests that fire alarms be tested monthly to ensure no malfunctions and batteries be replaced at least annually. Some alarms are designed to be able to sense carbon monoxide and smoke.

Kitchen Safety

Often the source of smoke and fire conditions emanate from the kitchen.

Public Safety Blotter

February 16, 2025 – February 22, 2025

February 16, 2025

120 Debs Place – A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package had been removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without their permission.

February 19, 2025

140 Bellamy Loop – A cooperator reported leaving items in the laundry room dryer unattended and ,upon returning, observed that the items had been removed by an unknown individual without their permission.

2049 Bartow Avenue – A cooperator was placed under arrest by CCPD for disorderly conduct after becoming irate with CCPD and yelling and screaming inside of the Administrative Office, causing public alarm. The cooperator was issued a criminal court summons and a Community Complaint for Anti-Social Behavior and was released.

February 20, 2025

2063 Bartow Avenue – CCPD responded to reports from Rite Aid

that a group was removing items from the store. While leaving, one suspect kicked and broke the theft detection system. After a canvas of the area, a juvenile suspect was apprehended by CCPD and arrested.

February 21, 2025

100 Co-op City Blvd – A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package had been removed from in front of their apartment door by an unknown individual without their permission.

February 22, 2025

120 Casals Place – A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package had been removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without their permission.

600 Baychester Avenue – A cooperator reported being struck on the forehead with a blunt object by a person known to him, causing an injury. CCPD and NYPD responded. A canvas of the area for the suspect yielded negative results. The investigation is ongoing.

Co-op City Times Photo Submission Guidelines

In an effort to improve the quality of pictures used in the Co-op City Times, we would like to share some guidelines for submitting photos for future publications.

• Ensure that your digital camera or cell phone camera is set to the highest possible resolution setting. The higher the resolution, the better the image quality.

• Fuzzy, dark or blurry images will be difficult to sharpen, so please make sure all images submitted are clear and brightly lit.

• Photocopies are not accepted as we try to go for the highest quality possible.

• Cooperators are encouraged to email their photos to cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com

• Printed glossy photos are also accepted.

• Cooperators can bring or mail their photos to our office to be scanned at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Room 21, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• All photos will be returned if requested.

It is important to maintain kitchen safety and awareness to reduce risk. In the event of a smoke condition or carbon monoxide event, CCPD and FDNY respond to the apartment and conduct preliminary investigations to ensure all persons are safe. If carbon monoxide condition is confirmed from the stove, FDNY may disconnect the stove. Con Edison is automatically notified and CCPD notifies Maintenance so that the stove is examined and, if needed, repaired or replaced.

Other fires and smoke conditions occur when the stove is unattended. If busy doing things and still cooking, it is a good idea to use reminders, such as your phone chime or notifications app to notify you when it’s time to tend to the food. If you find yourself engaging in an important phone call or conversation, it is always best to turn the food down or off for the moment. And when the food is complete, it is a good idea to randomly check your stove to ensure it is off. Keep the stove top and ovens clear of flammables, paper towels, electronics and potholders. It is best not to leave pots and pans inside of the stove for storage. Cook carefully, and don't take the common practice for granted. And finally, just as a smoke or carbon monoxide detector should be replaced immediately when damaged, so should the stove.

Electronics

Electronics which generate heat should be monitored closely and unplugged when not in use, for example, hair straighteners, curling irons, and clothing irons. Do not leave an iron exposed and walk away even for a moment. Take that extra moment to turn it off and place it where it is safe.

It is a good idea to occasionally observe electronic cables in your home. At times, old cables could become bent, frayed, worn, and even begin to overheat and melt, losing their integrity and increasing the chance of a fire. These wires should not continue to be used. Wall outlets that appear frayed and damaged should not be used and should be replaced.

Fire Safety Knowledge and Awareness

The Fire department of New York City website contains a wealth of information and tips regarding fire safety. Our very own Riverbay Safety director, Anthony Barzelatto, is featured on Riverbay’s YouTube channel providing important fire safety tips including candle use, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. For any questions regarding equipment and devices allowed in the home, or concerns with fire safety or hazardous conditions, feel free to contact Co-op City Department of Public Safety.

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbaycorp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com.

Please note: emails should be sent to both parties. Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see below for instructions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunities, please visit the following sites:

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

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

www.ZipRecruiter.com https://bit.ly/3Se8bdw

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

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson

Trouble In The Board Room

Our board had a meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, to review a proposed budget. However, this meeting didn’t go too well. So, let’s see what happened.

The Truth Can Hurt

This meeting started off with a multimillion dollar presentation about some needed work in the power plant. Our directors then received a list of over twenty costly projects that the power plant stated should be done. According to the power plant, some of this work should be done now, and then in 2026, 2027, and even 2028. Red flag!!!

So, I asked: Who prepared this budget for the power plant? The power plant then responded that another person in their office prepared this budget. Really? Why are you here if you didn’t prepare this budget? Why isn’t the person that prepared this budget here to discuss these figures?

Where did they get these figures? Estimates? Then, I showed everyone that their figures were expanded all the way until 2028. How did the power plant get the figures for 2028? Did they get bids for the work to be done in 2028? If yes, then, where are the bids?

Not satisfied with their answers, I had no choice but to state my dissatisfaction for this so-called budget. Why? Again, this multimillion dollar budget will ultimately affect our finances. Furthermore, if you remember, I previously wrote about how a power plant vendor was paid in full for contracted work.

But, can you believe that the power plant placed a 15 percent contingency fee onto that contract? This way, more money can possibly be paid to a vendor for so-called additional work? Good, right? No!!! Can you believe that there was an allegation that some of the workers for this vendor stayed on our property and did some unauthorized work for the power plant? Then, can you believe that this vendor was able to receive over $20,000 extra for this so-called unauthorized work? Surprising? No! Anyway, the power plant employee and some other employees left this meeting. Then, the entire tone changed—big time. Then let’s just say that words were exchanged. And, there was an accusation that I was attacking management in my viewpoints.

But, I don’t attack anyone in my viewpoints. However, will I write about the way that they manage our finances, their horrible resolutions, and their negative business practices? Absolutely! Why should a shareholder be elected to the position of a board director if they will not inform our community about what’s going on here?

I don’t believe that my viewpoints are malicious. Furthermore, they’re not intended to hurt anyone. Strong? Yes! Do you really want an elected board director to put nonsense into this paper when our community is receiving outrageous annual increases? No!!! My strong viewpoints get scrutinized before they’re published.

In fact, let’s review what happens when I write a strong viewpoint. Our editor will review the viewpoint. Then, she will send the viewpoint back to me with some strong suggestions. Thereafter, she and I will go back-and-forth over a few issues until we arrive at an agreement. Thereafter, my viewpoint will be published. And, sometimes, my viewpoint might be referred to the legal department if an agreement cannot be reached.

Nevertheless, I feel terrible when I look at the way that business is conducted here. Therefore, my ultimate goal is to get our management to change the way that they conduct business on our

behalf.

Bottom line: About two-thirds of our shareholders will not vote in our elections. Why not? They will tell you that they’re fed up with a lot of things that are going on here. So, we must make some big changes with this management agency.

Outrageous Arrears

Did you know that we might make way over $275 million this year? Now, yes, most of this money will be coming from our shareholders. However, can you believe that we have several businesses here that are in arrears? They’re not paying their rent.

Can you also believe that we have millions of dollars of shareholder arrears? So, yes or no, did you know about these issues before you read this viewpoint? Anyway, the big question is: Should this community know about this information? Absolutely! Therefore, I will continue to write strong and positive viewpoints to make sure that everyone knows what’s going on here. Close

Do you think that we should allow this management agency to conduct our business as indicated

in this viewpoint? In my opinion, the answer is no. Thank you.

Contact Information

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

I will never ask for or accept money from anyone. Therefore, please do not respond to any message with my name on it that requests money, money transfers, gift cards, personal information, or anything from you. And, please do not ever send money or anything to anyone because you saw my name on a false message.

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. And, please hang up your phone immediately if someone calls you and says that they’re Daryl Johnson or is associated with me and asks you for money or anything else.

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

Extermination Services Available to Co-op City Shareholders

For a service appointment, call the Extermination dept. at (718) 320-3300, option #3.

Management Report –––

UPDATE – CONVECTOR INITIATIVES TRACKER (NO NEW UPDATES)

Vendors(s)

1. Express Plumbing

Installation of an electronic leak detection and shut off value in convector

Current Status

$5301.04

The electronic leak detection and shut-off value was installed in Building 10B, Apt. 4B. This device is designed to detect leaks that may occur from a build-up of condensation in the convector. Once the water in the drip pan reaches a certain level, the device will activate and shut off the valve, stopping the chilled water from circulating in the coil, mitigating potential flooding in the apartment.

• Management will be installing two (2) motorized shut-off valves with leak detection in occupied apartments. These valves will shut the water flowing through the coils in the convector once a leak is detected. The Maintenance team will periodically check in with the shareholders to see how the device is performing.

• Management obtained a quote ($3,534.00) from Express Plumbing to install the two (2) shut-off valves in apartments. Management is coordinating with the two (2) shareholders where the valves will be installed and monitored by the Maintenance department.

Shut-off valves were installed in 11A/12C and 16B/12F; the valve will automatically shut off the water flowing through the coil, if a leak is detected. The Maintenance department will monitor these convectors and will stay connected with shareholders to see if any issues arise from the installation. Vendors(s)

A Canada-based company shipped a free unit (8,000 BTUs) to be tested in an apartment. It is proposed that this unit will replace an existing convector and include a water sensor and a 2-way shut-off valve that will prevent flooding in an apartment. The unit shipped was a base model without the water sensor and 2-way shut-off valve.

PHASE 1 – Conduct test to determine if the unit fits and operates in our current environment. The base model unit was installed in the living room of the model apartment Building 19, Apt. 23F on June 6, 2023. RESULTS: This unit operates in our current environment without any issues observed thus far. The Maintenance team will continue to monitor and do all necessary testing to complete this phase. The Maintenance team anticipates that the unit will be monitored through September 2023.

• The Maintenance team continues to monitor the apartment once a week. Thus far, the apartment temperature has been maintained around seventy degrees with only one unit operating. There were no leaks from the unit. This is a one-bedroom apartment.

• Phase 1 completed. Will monitor the heating through the winter. Unit performed well in our current environment during the cooling season.

A sample product was installed in Section 1 Maintenance Office to observe the features for evaluating the functionality. The company is working on a dashboard that will support the operation of the unit.

Kelvin Systems, Inc. presented it to Riverbay Management team on Friday, June 30, 2023. The presentation provided an overview of a radiator monitor and the proposed retrofits which include replacing the current toggle switch with a GFCI outlet, installing a float switch that is to be placed in the condensate drip tray to send an alert when the drip tray level rises, and a radiator sensor that will monitor the convector coil temperature and report information to a Cloud dashboard and database. Management plans to purchase five (5) radiator monitors at a cost of $400/unit ($2,000) which will be installed in apartments and will be monitored by the Maintenance team for performance.

• The device is currently being evaluated in apartments. Management is working with shareholders to identify additional apartments to test the device. This device could provide reporting/alarm benefits.

• 4 units have been installed. Kelvin is arranging to install 3 more units, two (2) of which were free of charge.

• Maintenance will continue to be evaluated as issues arose with connectivity and were resolved by the vendor.

• This system does not have a leak detection device. Some issues came up during testing with connectivity and the unit was not responding. The vendor is addressing this matter.

Co-op City Safety News Alert

Avoiding Dryer Fire

Clothes Dryer Safety Tips

• Don’t overload the dryer.

• Don’t dry anything containing foam, rubber or plastic. An example of an item not to place in a dryer is a bathroom rug with a rubber backing.

• Don’t dry any item for which manufacturer’s instructions state “dry away from heat.”

• Don’t dry glass fiber materials (unless manufacturer’s instructions allow).

• Don’t dry items that have come in contact with anything flammable like alcohol, cooking oils or gasoline. Dry them outdoors or in a wellventilated room, away from heat.

• Do not spray or wipe the inside of the dryer with Lysol or any such products.

PHASE 2 – Order a larger unit (12,000 BTUs) from vendor that will include dual shut off valves, water leak sensors and a larger/deeper condensate tray. This unit will be installed in the model apartment and will be monitored by the Maintenance team to ensure it fits and operates in our current environment, and performs all its features. The Maintenance team will monitor the unit for the winter season through March 2024. Test time for this phase is estimated at 6 to 8 months.

• The 12,000 BTU unit is currently in transit to Riverbay at no cost. This unit will come complete with two 3-way motorized Belimo valves to shut off water to the coil in the event of a leak or break. This unit will be installed in the living room of the 3-bedroom model apartment in Building 34 in Section 5 and monitored in our current environment for the upcoming heating season.

• The unit was received with two motorized shutoff valves and a water detection device. It is currently being installed in the 3-bedroom model apartment (living room - 34/32E). Installation will be completed by the week ending 10/14/23. This will be monitored weekly to ensure it operates correctly in our current environment.

• The Maintenance department is monitoring the units, and they are performing as expected. No leaks have been detected.

• Winter monitoring is proceeding as planned, with adequate temperatures measured in the apartments using only living room units. Measurements were taken on 1/18/24 with outside temperatures 28 degrees, room temperatures were as follows:

• 19/23F temperature was 73 degrees and 35/32E temperature was 69 degrees.

PHASE 3 – Based on the data collected from phase 1 and phase 2, the Maintenance team will meet with the Engineering team and will design a unit that would meet any additional requirements needed. The goal is to build a unit for our current environment with software and performance for Co-op City’s high-rise buildings. This unit will be designed to save energy and provide the same comfort, eliminate localized condensate leaks, and coil failure leaks. Management will also explore if there is government funding available for this type of large-scale program. Time for this phase is to be determined.

PHASE 4 – Designed unit completed and ready for ordering when all requirements are met. Management will examine historical data to determine a line of living rooms that have had multiple leaks in a building for units to be installed. The labor needed for installations will be assessed and determined during this phase. The Maintenance team will monitor units installed in apartments beginning with a cooling season in the current environment for performance. The test time for this phase is to be determined.

PHASE 5 – Roll out a larger scale install throughout the campus. This will involve preparing a RFP to obtain options and prices to furnish and install units in various quantities. The installation of the new units is projected to reduce convector leaks, floor repairs, and asbestos abatement. There will also be increased comfort in the apartments along with cost savings on energy. Time for this phase is to be determined.

• This unit continues to perform well in the current environment. Management will be exploring additional features in the unit that would maximize its performance.

Ultra-Thin Hydronic Fan Coil Unit

3. Aqua Solanor, Inc.

Director’s Viewpoint

Monique Coleman I Hear You – But Did You Vote?

The world is on fire, yet our world remains strong. As the song goes, we didn’t start the fire, but it has been burning since the world’s been turning. Let’s put things in perspective. We are fortunate to be owners in an affordable housing community. While inflation eats away at paychecks and the price of eggs has become a symbol of rising costs, our utilities remain included in our housing expenses, which are relatively stable.

For the past five months, with Management’s support and diligence, the Board has worked tirelessly to prepare a budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on April 1st. We used a zero-based budgeting approach, requiring every department to justify each expense—salaries, operations, and administrative costs. After thorough review and debate, we have reached consensus. Our final budget will be submitted to the New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal (DHCR) for approval, then, barring any unforeseen circumstances, our budget will become our spending plan, and we will live within our means for the next two years.

We all know things aren’t perfect, and challenges are always at our doorstep or just around the corner. Board discussions can get heated and are sometimes misinterpreted as infighting, but democracy thrives on debate. Our process ensures that every opinion is heard, and decisions are made through consensus—100% of the time.

In addition to twice monthly board meetings,

Resolutions ––– (Continued from page 6)

Contract Ratification

SUBMITTED BY: Andrea Leslie

SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 26, 2025

WHEREAS, contract # 3937, Biohazard, Trauma/Crime Scene Clean up, Mold Remediation, Sanitizing & Restoration Services for 1-year with ITS Environmental Services Inc. was executed on January 8, 2024; and WHEREAS, contract # 3937 has expired, and there is an outstanding balance for emergency services that were rendered. Procurement has started the process of soliciting for a new contract; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager is requesting change order #1 to add $66,045.31 in additional funding and a 3-month extension of time to the contract; and

SUBMITTED BY: Andrea Leslie

SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 26, 2025

WHEREAS, the Procurement department solicited companies for pricing for Bid #4150 for asbestos abatement flooring work; and

WHEREAS, Riverbay received three (3) bid proposals, which were reviewed by the Project manager; and

WHEREAS, the project manager has reviewed the bids and recommends Cutlass Industrial Inc. as the lowest qualified bidder; and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board

committee meetings, professional and personal lives, we added budgeting meetings to our workload. We had our first discussion on zero based budgeting last August and continued to meet regularly to massage the budget. Many of our budget meetings stretched past midnight as we tackled difficult questions, approved plans to maintain our aging infrastructure, and worked to improve shareholder services. Management met with building presidents and shareholders to gather their ideas and wish lists; the Board challenged Management, Management challenged the Board, we challenged one another, and each of us dug deep to challenge ourselves to ensure the best possible outcome.

I am proud of what we’ve accomplished—but let’s be clear: our budget is a projection, not a crystal ball. It is our best estimate of future expenses and revenues based on what we know today. It is not a financial statement. But what we do have is a united Board that has worked through differences to make responsible financial decisions for our community. We are fifteen (15) people representing fifteen thousand (15,000). We come from different backgrounds, cultures, and professions. We are not a monolith—and that is our strength. Diverse voices drive meaningful change that benefits everyone.

Our bylaws empower the Board to make policy decisions, but shareholder engagement is just as important. We implore you to be part of the conversation—but don’t just criticize—bring solutions. None of this works without you. Be part of our progress. Historically, we have struggled to achieve a quo-

rum every year. So, let me ask you—did you vote in last year’s Board election? Did you vote on the first day last year, after four weeks of annoying robocalls or not at all? This year, DHCR requires that we vote in person and your participation is critical. In-person voting means you must vote on Election Day. Your vote isn’t just a formality—it’s your voice in how our community is run. This year, can we count on you to vote, to help a neighbor vote, to bring a friend to vote in the Riverbay Board election in May? Your vote shapes our future.

IMPORTANT!

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order #1 request for additional funding of $66,045.31 tax included and a three (3) month extension of time for any unseen emergencies that may occur under contract # 3937 for the Biohazard, Trauma/Crime Scene Clean up, Mold Remediation, Sanitizing & Restoration Services with ITS Environmental Services Inc. be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract # 4150 for asbestos abatement flooring work be awarded to Cutlass Industrial Inc. based on a 2-year contract for the not to exceed value of $19,400,000.00 with a one-year renewal option at Riverbay’s discretion be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #2019.

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

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 26, 2025

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited eighteen (18) qualified vendors to submit bids for the Environmental Health and Safety Consultant services; and

WHEREAS, three (3) proposals were received and reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and

WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends Genesis Environmental Consultant, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder; and

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract # 4126 with Genesis Environmental Consultant, Inc. for a not to exceed total of $1,300,000 for 2 years to be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective. (See page 16 for more Resolutions)

SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury SECONDED BY: Anika Green-Watson

Management Report ––––––––

4. Artic Heat Pumps

from page 9)

The vendor will provide a 12,000 BTU convector like the one being evaluated at no cost to Riverbay. We will assess this unit in our current environment to make sure it performs all its features.

• The unit arrived and is continuing to be evaluated.

• The unit was installed in the Maintenance Shop and is being monitored.

• Unit is performing well in the current environment, but it does not have any leak mitigation features.

Below are the Corporation Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the month of December 2024. Please be advised that the Financial Report covers periods April 1, 2024 – December 30, 2024.

Waiting for delivery. All measurements were taken by Manufacturer. Expected delivery is within a month.

• The unit arrived and was installed in Section 2 office (Bldg. 10C) on 3/18/24. This unit has control valves and a pan float for leak mitigation. Vendor changed from the promised retrofit of the existing. convector box to a direct replacement unit.

• The unit is working as expected and being monitored by the Maintenance department.

• Unit is performing well in the current environment, but it does not have any leak mitigation features.

Waiting for delivery of six (6) free sample units from the manufacturer. Expected delivery is within four (4) weeks. Plans are to have the sample units installed in occupied apartments and the Maintenance department will conduct ongoing monitoring of the units.

• Management is identifying six (6) occupied apartments for the units to be installed in the living rooms. Once the locations are identified, the contractor will measure and make all arrangements for the units to be installed.

• Management will be proposing to the Board to purchase twenty-six units (6 free) for a total of thirty-two units. These units will be installed in Building 14 on the E line and monitored during the cooling season. The anticipated cost, including the installation, is $65,000 plus taxes.

• With consensus from the Board Directors, Management is preparing a contract with the vendor to install thirty-two units in the living rooms of Building #14 on the E-line. Plans are to have the installation commence within the next 6-8 weeks.

• 32 Sloped Top units are on order and expected to be delivered by the end of the month. The units will be installed in Building 14 on the “B” line. This is a correction to the information that was reported last month (units to be installed on the B-Line and the E- Line). Installation is expected to take one week.

• Thirty-two units have been delivered to Co-op City. Management is in the process of installing these units in Building 14 B-line living rooms. As of 7/16/24, six (6) units have been installed. Plans are to install five (5) units each day with an estimated completion date of 7/24/24. All units come with digital screens for comfort settings, water temperature sensors, leak detection devices for drip pans as well as the floor. The Maintenance department will monitor units in our current environment during the cooling season and heating season.

• All thirty-two units have been installed and are currently being monitored under our current environment. They are performing well; Management will continue to monitor the units for the remainder of the A/C season and the upcoming heating season. Management will arrange for the Board Directors to tour Apt. 23B in Building 14 so they can see how the unit operates.

• The 32 units installed continue to perform well in our current environment. No defects have been detected.

• The units continue to function without any identified issues. Management is in the process of transitioning into the winter season. The Maintenance department will continue to monitor the apartments during this transition.

• The units continue to function without any identified issues. Management has fully transitioned to the Winter season. The Maintenance department will continue to monitor the apartments throughout the Winter season.

(Management Report continues on page 16)

Director’s Viewpoint Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

Watch Your Step

Comedian and Daily Show alum John Oliver has a show called Last Week Tonight. He starts it off the same way every single time. “We have had quite a week.” Well, we have had quite a couple of weeks, four actually – since the inauguration of 45/47 – five by the time you read this. And boy does it ever, “make me wanna holler.”

Maybe it hasn't personally hit you yet, but unpleasant changes are coming for all but the mega-wealthy. And it’s already gotten the sustainable energy entities to all but roll over and play dead.

What does that mean for our renewable-energy LL97 Working Group? We can kiss decarbonization goodbye “for the duration” but hopefully not before we slap those solar panels atop our soon-to-be re-roofed power plant. Will it be a rearranging-thedeck-chairs-on-the-Titanic endeavor or a head start for when we make it through these regressive, science denying, American Dark Ages?

But look on the bright side. No more of my pushing for Enhanced Geothermal in these pages and on our grounds. The East Coast hasn’t gotten the GHS message yet (and conservative, super risk-averse Coop City surely hasn’t either) but amazing advances are being made in the middle of Utah. The holy grail of endless energy is fast approaching. Will it come fast enough to stop the planet from completely melting, drowning, and burning? (Insert shrug emoji.)

D&A Corner: The Disability and Accommodations Committee is preparing for a June event. What we have to share with you so far is this tweaked Mission/Vision statement: The Disability and Accommodations Committee serves our co-operators by focusing on common issues and experiences. The committee exists to gather information, pinpoint

M A R C H 2 0 2 5

and share resources, and find solutions to problems, challenges, and inconveniences for ourselves and our neighbors with disabilities.

Because disability is so broadly defined, the committee has been struggling to home in on truly common issues and experiences. But we're getting closer. We’re narrowing the focus of the committee and of the June event to Accessibility and Caregiving, along the lines of Universal Design – which means “[creating] environments that are usable by people with and without disabilities.”

So, last week, I got two not-totally-related calls that revealed a need for such a universally designed accommodation; something I hadn’t given much thought to since our ADA door installations were completed.

The first call was from a resident whose daughter got a blocking-a-bus-lane ticket in late December while waiting “for just five minutes” to pick up her mother from the front of the Chevron building near Bartow’s killer curve. The daughter’s car was not at the curb so she got snagged with a $50 fine and a threat that the next offense would cost her $200. Photographic evidence was supplied by a camera attached to a city bus windshield.

Though this MTA project has been in effect since 2019 – along with BUS CORRIDOR PHOTO ENFORCED warning signs – just a couple of months ago on a couple of Manhattan bus routes, thousands of erroneous tickets went out to people whose vehicles were provably legally parked. According to the archived NBC television report, an MTA spokesman said: “There were programming kinks, both in mapping of curb areas and the timing of warnings themselves – all of which have now been resolved.”

What was to blame? Artificial Intelligence. A

newly rolled-out faulty AI system with inadequate human oversight was the culprit in this annoying Manhattan SNAFU.

And the Co-op City ticket? Our particular resident (and surely other residents living in that particular building) relies on Access-A-Ride. Those vehicles can’t get close to the curb either and are surely photographed as well, but with no financial consequence since Access-A-Ride belongs to the MTA system.

According to Interim Chief Captain Torres, this was no isolated incident. And those warning signs are posted in Section 5. Still… Can nothing be done?

Back to call number two from another one of our senior-seniors. She lives in the Chevron on Co-op City Boulevard at Asch Loop and she needs to navigate the curb with her walker to board her AccessA-Ride.

And there’s the common thread. No cut curb in front of either Building 22 or 32 and a quick drive-around showed that except for the dumpster pad, there’s no cut curb by the Carver Loop Triple-Core either.

The car owners of the community might holler, but this needs correcting. In at least these three cases, a parking spot or two must be sacrificed to allow for cut curbs to both avoid tickets at killer curve and for the convenience of all, throughout all of Co-op City.

Disability is something that increases with age. Maybe it hasn’t personally hit you yet, but it’s coming for almost half of us, according to a US Census American Community Survey released in August of last year. Be it congenital, accidental, or age related, 45.9% of the population, 75 and up, is living with a disability.

Accommodations must be made.

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

ColoringClub 3-4PM ADULT Painting 1-2PM ADULT Painting 1-2PM 12-1PM ADULT ChairYoga

ADULT ChairYoga 12-1PM ADULT Painting 1-2PM KIDS StoryTime 11-11:45AM TEEN CCPCounseling 1-2PM

Meeting ––– (Continued from page 5)

that and I do think that it is very important that we provide that type of communication to everyone because it is definitely disheartening and we want to protect our cooperators here,” she said.

Director Andrea Leslie reported being pulled over recently and being asked for her license and registration. She said that since then, she copied her license and registration and placed them on her dashboard. “I’m a woman driving by myself and now I’m hearing this and this is scary,” she said.

Director Kevin Lambright said: “America, as we knew it before, is different, and it’s going to get worse before it gets better. What we can do is come together here in Co-op City, your building association. These things need to be spoken about in your building association… we have to stop looking at each other as them and they. It’s all about us right now, and we have to do it together… No matter what color you are, it’s going to happen because this political situation that we have here in America, there are no consequences, and it’s going to get worse.”

To answer Ms. Jones’ question about Optimum, General Counsel Buss said that Altice has signed a non-exclusive agreement with Riverbay and they’re already here.

“Verizon is saying that they are coming. They’re having internal debate about which method of installation would work for them,” Mr. Buss reported. “Last week, they announced that they were contemplating using something called the 3M installation. I don’t know what that is, but they thought it might be more effective and cost less money, and they hope to be here within the year, they said.”

Mr. Buss also reported that New York State has a program called Connect All which has an approved company interested in coming into Co-op City. “So if any of those things pan out, you’ll have a choice of potentially three different companies,” he said. “But right now, the only company that’s actually here is Optimum or Altice.”

The final speaker, Jacqueline Chambers, wanted to know if Riverbay has heard any news from the state regarding funding for the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) and the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) programs?

Board President Saunders responded that the state legislature is currently ironing out two pieces on legislation, one from the assembly and the other from the senate, to increase the income limit of SCRIE from $50,000 to $67,000.

“This will allow more of our residents, not an awful lot, but certainly more than a few residents to take advantage of the programs. That’s both SCRIE and DRIE so, the answer is yes, and when that legislation is passed, I would strongly suggest that you go on the website to make sure they can take advantage of it,” Mr. Saunders said.

Ms. Chambers also asked if these agencies are in jeopardy of being cut. Board President Saunders responded that these are state funds so unless the state is getting money from the federal government to fund the programs, they should be intact.

Board Secretary Cylich noted that when a cooperator receives SCRIE or DRIE, their carrying charge is fixed at 30% of their income. He then went on to explain how the city makes up that difference.

Board Director Leslie shared that she works for a city agency which does SCRIE/ DRIE applications for clients and so far, there has been no directives not to submit applications, and as far as she’s aware, applications are still being processed.

Following the Gallery Session, the Board started the business portion of their meeting. Board President Saunders amended the agenda to substitute the President’s Report with a discussion of e-scooter corrals in Co-op City.

He said that when the pilot program was first introduced, it was not explained that the community had a choice to opt out as City Island had done.

“We’ve had this proliferation of e-bikes and e-scooters, mostly e-scooters in our community,” said Board President Saunders. “As most of you know, they proliferate into bus stops. They find them everywhere on our property. Some have even found their way into our garages. It’s hard for people to walk around sometimes. It’s hard for people to board buses. It’s hard for those who use mobility devices to get around on our sidewalks. Co-op City sidewalks are only 10 feet wide in most places. In 90% of the places, Co-op City sidewalks are 10 feet wide. For vendors who are using any other form of sales in any community, sidewalks have to be a minimum of 12 to 15 feet. So, having these bikes parked on our sidewalks creates a problem and is contrary to DOT’s own law.”

Now, the city wants to transition the pilot e-scooter/e-bike program into a more permanent program, and move ahead with installation of 20 e-scooter corrals on Coop City sidewalks and on streets which will include 14-15 in Sections 1-4 and possibly about 5-6 in Section 5. Board President Saunders opened the floor for Board directors’ comments.

“I understand the city has to have the initiative and community players in it, but they do need to play by their own rules, and that it doesn’t mean we’re removing parking, which they are doing in other areas, especially when they reduce the amount of bus service that we do have, which is the only thing that we really do have as far as that goes,” said Director Wright. “And it doesn’t mean that you get to arbitrarily just decide where these things go. The other part of it though, is that it’s also coming onto our property, and that’s, I think, a bigger issue. Somehow, someway, it’s getting onto the Section one greenway, and I’ve also seen it in the little Bellamy basketball court … and there’s no accountability that’s held by the program. So if the city wants to do it, that’s fair enough, but they do have to understand that A) you have to abide by the rules, as you said, and B) you also need to be a good partner in this. And if it’s not a good fit for our area, then it’s not a good fit for our area...”

It was also pointed out that in the phase 1 study that Director Wright was refer-

ring to, it states that the majority of e-scooters are not being used by cooperators; it’s e-bikes that are coming into the community.

“So, it’s not necessarily a destination point, … and primarily, if I remember correctly, it was centered around like the Bay Plaza area or Bartow area, if I remember it,….So it wasn’t being used by Casals and other places; it wasn’t a drop-off point,” stated Director Wright. “It also wasn’t an area where people were picking up. So I really don’t understand how there is support for this, particularly because it also stated that the people who were doing it were younger. The primary people that we have here, average age is about 55. So I’m not seeing how this is part of a feasibility more than it is just a narrative of the city.”

Director Smith said that before accepting the program, the city should be asked to provide data because the program is very upsetting to her neighbors in the Adler Place townhouses.

“We get a lot of e-bikes put in the townhouse driveway area by the dumpsters, right? We average two that stay there for a good seven days. I have picked it up myself out of the street and put it in the dumpster area. I’d like a report from them because they haven’t been good partners during the pilot phase. They promised the city, they promised Councilman Riley that they had a computerized system that could tell them when that bike was down and not on their system, like someone wasn’t using it, that they would come out and, I don’t know, pick it up. So that wasn’t done during the pilot phase, so I just don’t have any faith that they’re going to be good partners,” said Director Smith. “And as you said, it’s someone who rides the train. The majority of those e-green-bikes line are at the 5 train station, … The majority of the people in Co-op City, I’m one, a commuter in the morning, we’re getting on the buses. I don’t see a lot of people getting on a scooter and going to the 5 train. So for us to give up our valuable land, I hope that this is something that the shareholders will be able to voice their opinion on.”

Director Dr. Kyshawn White asked if Co-op City can opt out of the program.

Board President Saunders said he is not sure although he’d like Co-op City to. He shared that last October, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams held a press conference in Queens County calling for a DOT pause on the program after homeowners in southeast Queens complained about e-scooters being thrown across sidewalks, driveways and in front of homes, businesses, senior centers, etc., causing safety concerns. He said that he has spoken to General Counsel Buss about taking similar action here in Co-op City.

The Board President asked the audience for a show of hands if they approve or disapprove of the e-scooter corrals being installed in Co-op City and, after a brief description of what the corrals are, a majority of shareholders who were present indicated opposition.

Director Dr. White added: “My first question was can we opt out of it because these programs, while well-intentioned, are generally not feasible. We have limited parking as it is. We have limited sidewalk space as it is. If you look at Manhattan, how the streets are being designed and constructed, it completely just eliminates towards forcing people out of their vehicles, out of their cars, to discourage them from driving. I think if we can opt out of it in any way, we need to get out of it, because I think they’ve already had their show of what they can do, and we’ve already seen the results, and I don’t think you can get it better.”

Director Graham mentioned that at one of the Buildings & Grounds committee meetings, chaired by Director Peterson, the issue was raised about e-scooters being left on sidewalks and impeding access by pedestrians, especially those with wheelchairs and walkers. She said that the Riverbay Grounds director, Michael Ambo, expressed willingness to have those e-scooters removed. Director Peterson also emailed committee members the phone numbers of the three e-scooter companies so they can be contacted to remove their e-scooters strewn on Co-op City property. (The contact numbers to the three companies, Bird, Lime and Veo, are also available on the ticker on the Riverbay Crawler.)

Board Director Mary Pearson agreed that she has never seen anyone over the age of 25 riding an e-scooter in Co-op City and noted that some corrals are already on the property although they are hardly used. Speaking mostly for Section 5, she said there is one on Boller Avenue and two opposite PS 160 on Einstein Loop South.

Director Monique Coleman said that the docking corrals should have been part of the program from the inception but because they were not, e-scooters are left haphazardly everywhere. “I don’t think they should be here and I don’t think we should agree to further encroachment in our community especially if it means that we will lose parking or sidewalk access. I don’t think we should allow it,” the director said. “So, if we have a say to the expansion of this program, then we should say so.”

Board President Saunders next asked Board Directors for a show of hands to agree to send a written request to DOT to pause the program while further discussions are held. The Board agreed unanimously.

Moving the agenda along, the Management Report was presented by Executive General Manager Walton (See page 1.)

Councilman Kevin Riley, who was in the building on Wednesday night for a community conversation his office sponsored on aging, was invited by Board President Saunders to briefly address shareholder.

The Board then discussed and voted on three emergency resolutions on the fiscal year budget, public assembly and solar initiative; and two second readings. (See page 1 for more details and page 6 for the Board resolutions passed at the February 26, 2025 Board meeting.)

––– (Continued from page 1)

and $21,220,199 for capital expenses. The proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026/2027 is $324,436,452 and includes $293,508,700 for operating expenses and $30,927,752 for capital expenses.

The operating budget will provide funding for direct and indirect services to shareholders, while the capital budget will provide funding for necessary infrastructure repairs throughout Co-op City.

Before the resolution was read, Director Daryl Johnson asked Management for clarification about the final budget amounts. He explained that at a pre-Board meeting last week, the Board and Management had discussed using some of the $50 million allocated to Co-op City in the New York State budget to fund some of the projects listed as a priority by the Riverbay Power Plant department.

Executive General Manager Walton then responded and clarified that at the Board’s request, Management had looked to see which of the priority Power Plant projects might qualify for the state funding, as the $50 million allocated can only be used to cover capital projects. Once these projects were identified, they then moved those expenses from the operating budget to the capital budget.

He also explained that the Board will now have to let Management know which of the capital projects that were already earmarked for the $50 million they want to either eliminate or delay in order to fund the Power Plant projects that were moved from the operating budget.

Mr. Walton then clarified that though those expenses were removed from the operating budget and are set to be covered by a portion of the $50 million, the operating budget bottom line will remain the same as the money will now be transferred to the operating surplus.

“So, the operating expenses reduced, but our surplus increased in both year one and year two,” said Mr. Walton. “The bottom-line budget for the operating stays the same because now you have a larger surplus. Expenses have been reduced from that funding source, and now we’re going to fund it from the $50 million as capital. Our comprehensive budget is both operating and capital. So, we basically moved the expenditures from operating and moved them over to capital, but you [the Board] all have an exercise that you have to decide which of those projects you want to fund at that same amount that we moved over.”

After Mr. Walton, Ms. James-Bonnette then formally presented the resolution and budget. She also went on to explain that a portion of the capital projects will not only be funded by the $50 million allocated by the state but also by approximately $20 million that had been allocated from the replacement reserves. The reserves, Ms. James Bonnette explained, are held by Wells Fargo and are the proceeds from the 2022 mortgage refinancing. The proposed budget also does not require an increase in carrying charges to maintain a balanced budget for the next two years. However, Ms. James-Bonnette explained that the budget does still have to be reviewed

Co-op City Times / March 1, 2025

and approved by the New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), who will have the final say in whether or not there will be a carrying charge increase.

After the resolution was presented, Director Bernard Cylich then shared more information about the money from the refinancing. He explained that after the mortgage was refinanced, Riverbay was left with $124 million, and just like the $50 million allocated from the state, this money can only be used to cover expenses for capital projects.

“So, when management tried to go ahead and create a budget for these two years, they had to figure out how to use money from these two accounts on capital projects,” said Director Cylich. “How to use it and not deplete it totally because we want to have some money left in the reserves.”

Director Johnson spoke next and asked Management how much the budget was for Fiscal Year 2023/2024 and Fiscal Year 2024/2025.

Ms. James-Bonnette responded that for FY2023/2024 which just ended, the budget was $265 million, and for 2024/2025, it is $286 million.

“So, this budget is going up by $29 million, that is what I’m getting. Twenty-nine million dollars, that’s what we’re voting on right now,” Director Johnson clarified.

Ms. James-Bonnette then reiterated that the budget they are presenting is a comprehensive budget, made up of both operating and capital expenses.

Board President Saunders also spoke up and said that the corporation is also going to be completing more capital work with this budget.

After a vote, Resolution #25-05 was passed, with 12 Directors voting yes, two Directors voting no and one director was absent from the meeting.

Once the resolution was passed, Director Jacqueline Smith then spoke up to ask Management to work on putting some information together for the Co-op City Times to explain the rate of inflation and how that affected the budget.

“The question should be phrased that if the budget went up, what percentage did it go up and how is it all set by inflation,” said Director Smith.

Executive General Manager Walton then shared that Management is planning on speaking with shareholders and going around the community to explain the approved budget.

“What I’m planning to do now that the budget has been passed by the Board, we’re going to do a campaign throughout the community to educate the community on what the budget looks like,” said Mr. Walton. “We will, for sure, include that component so that the shareholders will know the entire portions of the budget and what were the inflationary factors, the whole nine yards. We’re going to do that and we’re going to do that over the next 30 days.”

Director Mary Pearson also spoke up to remind shareholders that the property insurance and water bill also went up this year and will continue to increase.

“Our property insurance goes up like $3 million every year,” said Di-

rector Pearson. “Everything goes up. The water bill went from $17 to $19 million this past year. It’s really easy to add billions upon billions. More than just the rate of inflation, it’s the rate of what things cost and you’ll see in the budget that there are vital things that need to be done to the Power Plant. The Power Plant is the heart of the community.”

Closing out the budget conversation, Board President Saunders and Mr. Walton also reminded the community again that the budget as it stands now does not include a carrying charge increase, but that HCR does have the final decision about the budget and whether a carrying charge increase is necessary.

“HCR has the final decision. They can come back and say a 1%, a 2%, a 3% [increase],” said Mr. Walton.

The next resolution was Emergency Resolution #25-08, which was presented by Riverbay Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto. This resolution was a change order request for an existing contract for architectural and engineering services for public assembly permits.

Before the resolution was read, Board President Saunders explained that the change order request is an extension of a previous resolution and that the additional funding is needed to address some items that were identified by the architects during inspections. This will also help the corporation not receive any fines from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) for non-compliance with their public assembly requirements, which must be followed in any space in NYC where 75 or more people gather indoors.

Mr. Barzelatto then presented the resolution which asks for an additional $54,815 in funding for the existing contract, in order to make sure that the additional permits and plans are filed with the DOB.

“We are mandated by the City of New York to have all of our conference rooms and certain facilities within Co-op City compliant with the public assembly rule,” said Mr. Barzelatto. “And based upon the numerous inspections that have been done, we have to upgrade and be in more compliance. So, between the architect and myself, we delineated some areas that have to be upgraded into being in compliance with the public assembly rule. So, in order to do that, we have to obtain permits and plans to be submitted to the Department of Buildings to be able to start the process.”

After the resolution was read, a few Board directors expressed their confusion, as they had not been able to thoroughly look over the resolution before it was presented. Board President Saunders apologized and answered that the resolution had been brought to his and First Vice President Leslie Peterson’s attention on Friday, and due to the nature of the work, it was moved to an emergency resolution.

Director Lynette Wright then asked for clarification about if the construction work needed will be covered by the already existing construction contract that the Board voted or if the cost of the work is this being offset in any

manner so that it doesn’t add to the FY 24/25 budget. Mr. Walton answered and explained that the previous construction contract bid is being rescinded and that once the new construction bid is sent out, Management will present the Board with a new resolution for the contract. The previous contract was for over $200,000 for the construction work and because they are redoing the bid, the money will not be taken out of the FY 24/25 budget. However, Mr. Walton did explain that the cost will be part of the FY 2025/2026 budget now.

“This new expenditure will hit the 25/26 budget because after we vote tonight, then the architect has to send the drawings, and we have to do the bidding process,” explained Mr. Walton. “So that piece that was budgeted to take place this year, we’re going to have to go back now and look at the budget because some portions of it that were planned for this year will be spent in next year’s budget; we just got to make sure we got room for them.”

Second Vice President Leah Graham then asked for clarification as to why the resolution was being presented as an emergency resolution.

Board President Saunders replied that the resolution needed to be presented as soon as possible in order for the corporation to avoid any future violations and fines.

Safety Director Barzelatto also added that by applying for the permits, it alerts the DOB that Riverbay is aware of the issues and is actively working to fix any violations.

“I don’t want to say it stops the penalties from coming, but it makes them aware that we already have things in motion and that we’ve applied for the permits and we’re working to get this job done,” said Mr. Barzelatto. “If we did nothing, that’s where we’re going to start getting flagged.”

Riverbay Legal Counsel Jeffrey Buss also answered Director Graham and explained that in his legal opinion, the work and permits need to be done immediately.

“In my legal opinion, it is an emergency,” said Mr. Buss. “You need to get this done. And the work that was called for before on the previous resolution was construction work. And when the Board took a closer look at that, it was determined that there was some work in there that maybe should have been done by commercial tenants and not paid for by the shareholders, so they were like, let’s take that out. And there was some other work for disability access, which should be a separate thing, so we took that out. And that cost was over $300,000 actually. So that actually is off the table. But the clock keeps ticking and that clock has tipped.”

Director Smith also asked for clarification about why the $200,000 that hasn’t been used from the construction aspect of the project cannot be used to fund the change order request.

Mr. Walton then explained that a portion of the $200,000 will be used to cover the change order request, but that money cannot be used to pay for the construction work because left

(Continued on page 21)

NAACP

The NAACP marches to defend democracy and combat racism and discrimination in communities across the country.We meet on the fourth Sunday of the month at 3 p.m. The NAACP Co-op City Branch Office hours are 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Mondays & Wednesdays.

The NAACP Co-op City Branch: Estates, Wills and Trusts Event – was held last Sunday, February 23, and was well attended. An immense thank you is extended to Hugh W. Campbell, Esq. We were fortunate to have this well-known attorney stop by to enlighten, inform and answer the various questions posed during the session. Bags and pens were distributed to all who were at the event. Contact information was also shared so members could contact him with additional matters of concern. Attendees expressed surprise when they learned things

they had never known and got more details about things they didn’t understand. Those who joined the event surely learned about the importance of planning for the future and protecting your assets. They also learned about different trusts, power of attorney forms and the duties of an executor(trix) from an expert in the field.

Across industries, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments are being rolled back, supplier diversity programs canceled, and funding for Black interests slashed.

The NAACP refuses to let this go unanswered. We’ve been fighting for DEI for 116 years and we’re not backing down now. Today, we’ve issued a Black Consumer Advisory to inform Black buyers about which companies support us and which don’t. With nearly $2 trillion in spending power, we can make our dollars speak for us.

What you can do right now:

• Spend Intentionally – Support businesses that uphold DEI commitments.

• Demand Accountability – Call out companies retreating from racial equity.

• Support Black-Owned Businesses – Prioritize Black entrepreneurs and service providers.

• Advocate for Change – Push for policies that strengthen supplier diversity and workplace equity.

• Stay Informed – Get educated on corporate rollbacks and their impact on Black communities.

We’re calling on Black consumers to think carefully about where we spend our money. Let’s use our collective power to show what matters to us.

“We should not drown in despair. It’s vital to cling to hope. We need to organize, take action and make good trouble.” —John Lewis

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.

Follow us on Facebook: “Co-op City NAACP.”

P.S.: Looking to make an even greater impact? Become a champion for change and join us to keep advancing for community. Annual membership: Adult, $30; Youth, $10; Silver Life, $750. Make check/mo. payable to: NAACP Co-op City. Mailing address: NAACP Co-op 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

Management Report ––– (Continued from page 11)

Riverbay Corp. Fiscal Year 24/25 Budget Overview

The budget summary at right gives a snapshot of Riverbay Corporation’s Budget vs. Actual performance for Fiscal Year 24/25 for the period beginning April 01, 2024, and ending December 30, 2024.

INCOME

At the end of December 2024, actual carrying charges were greater than anticipated by 5.5% or $9.2 million as a direct result of the 8.1% increase in Carrying Charges that took effect July 1, 2024. The Other Income was less than anticipated by 5.3% or $2.1 million primary due to reduced receipts from the sale of electric power.

SUMMARY OF EXPENSES

Departmental Expenses:

Total departmental expenditures, which includes salaries, fringe benefits and other expenses associated with the day-to-day departmental activities involved with providing direct and indirect services to the shareholders are down 3.5% or $ 3.9 million.

Vacancies in several departments, especially the Public Safety Department, continue to contribute to the positive variances in the departments. Although some departments reported positive budget variances in payroll, there were some negative budget variances in the operating budgets, and they are as follows:

• Automotive Services is $192,000 over budget due primarily to increased vehicle maintenance costs.

• Information Technology reported a negative 50% budget variance of $1.4 million through December 2024. As explained in last month’s report, the Department was over budget due largely to invoices totaling approximately $495,000 for furniture and equipment

(Continued on page 19)

Resolutions ––– (Continued from page 10)

Second Reading - Resolution #25-02

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Andrea Leslie

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 26th, 2025

WHEREAS, The Procurement department handles a broad spectrum of business transactions for Riverbay Corporation. Under our current manual process, our work is time-consuming and we underutilize technology; and WHEREAS, management aims to enhance the Procurement department’s workflow by streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, and leveraging available technology. Our goal is to transform the

department from a reactive manual time-consuming process to a proactive, digital and efficient one; and

WHEREAS, Management recommends contract # 4137 for BidNet Procurement System in the amount of $189,535.90 plus tax for three (3) years be approved by the Executive Board; and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that contract # 4137 for BidNet Procurement System and approval of $189,535.90 (which includes a 3% annual increase for year 2 and 3) plus tax for a three (3) year contract be ap-

Amended Second Reading - Resolution #25-03

SUBMITTED BY: Lynette Wright

SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: February 26, 2025

WHEREAS, secondhand smoke is universally and scientifically recognized to materially and ad-

proved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

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

ABSENT FOR VOTE: Peterson

ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

versely affect both smokers and non-smokers; and WHEREAS, on March 3, 2016, the Board passed Resolution #16-09B, which prohibited smoking inside building common areas and community centers and imposed a fine for violations of those rules; and WHEREAS, the shareholders of the Corporation wish to protect themselves from the known, damaging effects of secondhand smoke; and WHEREAS, Section 17-502 of the NYC Administrative Code requires that the Corporation amend its Rules and Regulations to adopt a policy with respect to smoking; and WHEREAS, the Board of Directors has requested that Management review existing policies

Velocity Track Club

Velocity Track Club’s performance at the Armory Youth Winter Invitational on February 17 was outstanding. The event, held at the Nike Track and Field Center at the Armory in New York City, featured teams from the tristate area and beyond, including several from Maryland. Lovely medals were awarded to the top three athletes in their event/gender. The traditional track and field events were contested.

Velocity Track Club was blessed with a total of 15 medals: two gold, three silver, and 10 bronze. Notable achievements include:

• Gold Medals: Autumn and Elias in shot put.

• Silver Medals: Ezmerelis in the one mile run and Madison T. in the high jump.

• Bronze Medals: Lyon and Aniyah in the 55-meter hurdles.

Shareholders, if you read the Co-op City Times online at issuu.com or on social media, be sure to follow and like the newspaper to help grow our online readership.

• Savanna G (2 PRs)

• Elaia

• Xoan

• Elias

• Aris

• Cameron

• Katherine

• Chelsea

• Aniyah

• Ekaete

In addition to the medals, the team celebrated 11 personal records (PRs) set by athletes:

The next track meet is the Armory Youth Championship on Sunday, March 2, at the Armory. ––Coach Winston Dinkins

March Is Colorectal Cancer Month

Compactor Room Rules

In order to maintain a standard of cleanliness throughout the buildings and to avoid pests and vermin within the buildings, we ask that all shareholders follow the rules below when using the compactor room:

1. Furniture and cardboard boxes, including pizza boxes must be taken down to the basement “Ash Cart” area.

2. Newspapers and small clean paper items (ex. flattened cereal boxes, soda cartons) should be neatly placed on the shelf or in a paper bag under the shelf.

3. Cans, glass and plastic bottles go in the recycling bag hung on the wall. Everything must be rinsed clean.

4. Dirty plastic food containers, dirty paper towels and raw garbage go down the chute.

Colorectal cancer (CRC), often referred to as colon cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. It is one of the most common cancers worldwide and typically develops from adenomatous polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum lining. Over time, these polyps can become cancerous, if not detected and removed early.

The exact cause of colorectal cancer is not fully understood, but certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include age (most people diagnosed are over 50), family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, inherited genetic mutations (such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis), a high-fat, low-fiber diet, physical inactivity, obesity, and smoking. Inflammation of the colon, such as inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, also increases the risk.

Colorectal cancer typically grows slowly over many years. Early stages often do not produce obvious symptoms, which is why regular screening is essential for early detection. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool), rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, abdominal discomfort, and unexplained weight loss. Some individuals may experience fatigue or weakness due to anemia caused by chronic blood loss from the tumor.

Screening for colorectal cancer is crucial for individuals over 45 (or younger if they have risk factors), as early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Common screening methods include colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and stool tests. A colonoscopy is the gold standard, allowing doctors to inspect the entire colon and remove polyps before they develop into cancer.

Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis. Earlystage cancers may be treated with surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding healthy tissue. For more advanced stages, treatment often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. Targeted therapies and immunotherapies are also being developed and show promise in treating advanced CRC cases.

Prevention strategies focus on lifestyle modifications, including maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, not smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption. Regular screening, particularly for those with a higher risk, plays a crucial role in reducing mortality rates. Colorectal cancer, when detected early, has a high survival rate, making awareness and screening essential to combat this disease.

—Diane Cooper

Failure to follow proper procedure could result in a community complaint and fine for “improper garbage disposal”.

We thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter.

––Riverbay Management

Co-op City Creatives: Joshua Judge

By P.M. CAMPBELL

As a former Bronx teacher, Ms. Marilyn Williams taught her grandson about literature which would be absent from his formal education. She started reading him African poetry on his visits to Co-op City from California when he was 7. Today, 15-year-old Joshua Judge uses poetry to communicate with his grandmother from across the country.

This year, wildfires have burnt through urban communities in California leaving residents displaced, injured, and even killed. Joshua says that he woke up to his home covered in ash, but as he waited for evacuation orders, he thought about the nearby communities which suffered more directly. Such empathy is characteristic of his writing, which juxtaposes individual mental health with that of one’s community.

“When something sparks emotions, I feel moved to write,” Joshua says. “Good writing can capture emotion in words so they can remember the pain in the community.”

Though he has learned Shakespearean sonnets and haikus in school, Josh-

Greetings, shareholders and welcome to March. The Building 2 Association meeting took place on Tuesday, February 18 with special guest speaker Vanessa L Gibson, Bronx Borough President (see picture on right). Despite the frigid temperatures outside, our meeting room was packed with engaged attendees eager to hear about the many public programs and services she oversees. President Gibson leads with a commitment to improving our community. Her work spans a broad range of responsibilities, Including:

• Education, Youth and Health Services

• Jobs Opportunities

• Housing Initiatives

• Economic Development

• Support Programs of Older Adults and Veterans

• Social Services and Government Benefits

• Quality of Life Issues

Her dynamic presence and positive energy were evident as she discussed her efforts and encouraged community involvement. She concluded the session with an engaging Q and A, answering questions and addressing concerns. We are grateful for her advocacy and dedication to representing our community.

ua pays particular attention to the oral aspects of poetry. His sonic emphasis, without a doubt, is a quality learned from his grandmother’s poetry. The use of recapitulation and parallel grammar structure links Joshua’s poems to those in the pan-African literary canon. This is clear in his poem, “The Red Sunrise.”

The sun rises early in the morning

The fires from east makes the sky gray

As the sun turns red.

The sky is engulfed in an ominous gray

The sun beaming like a dragon’s heart.

The air smells like a pack of cigarettes, smoking in a car with the heat on.

My throat burns like fire, Water rushes out of my eye,

Making it look like I had been sobbing, Look up as ash falls from the sky like snow.

My house is covered in ash.

The ash of someone else’s home.

The fires rage on through the day, burning down a high school like my own

I smell the devastation with every breath.

Building 2 Association

Building 20 Association

The Building 20 Association president welcomed the residents to the February 20th meeting. Following the reports from the president, recording secretary, special projects leader, we discussed how we could recognize and support the Building 20 college-bound students. This discussion will continue. If you have a college-bound child, please let us know.

Our guest speaker was Mr. Joshua Blake, deputy general manager of Riverbay Corporation. He informed us of his responsibilities of supervising various Riverbay departments to assure that things run smoothly and efficiently.

There was a Q&A session and below is a sampling:

• Why aren’t the services for apartments as good as the services on the outside? A: Things will get better. If you are not happy with the service, contact that department so that the issue can be resolved.

• Why is duck tape being used on the floor covering in the outer lobby? A: This is a pilot program. Riverbay is looking for a way to cover the floors so that it has a uniform look because it would cost too much to remove and replace all of the tiles, due to the abatement charge.

• Is there a test for mold and mildew? A: Yes. Call the Safety department for an appointment.

• How can I get my floors leveled? A: Contact the Restoration department.

• If I want to alter/customize my apartment, what is the process? A: You must get a form from CSO, fill it out and return it and you can do what you want. However, when you move out, you are responsible for restoring the apartment back to its original condition or Riverbay will deduct it from your equity.

• There was a lump of refuse stuck on the dryer lint tray which needed to be scraped off to remove it. A: That’s because someone probably sprayed something into the dryer and it went to the lint tray. The people who do the monthly thorough cleaning will check the lint trays. Also, Mr. Blake will speak to CSC about changing the filters.

• In some of the buildings, the pipes are bursting and there are floods in the apartments. A: When the temperature fluctuates too much, the coils expand and pop. We are monitoring this.

Upcoming Events – Save the Dates!

Game Night: Saturday, March 1, 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Join your neighbors for an evening of fun and fellowship! Enjoy games like dominoes, card games, board games and much more. All are welcome!

Checkmate Society’s Chess Club: Wednesday, March 5 and 18, 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, our expert instructor will guide you. Come sharpen your skills or learn the game in a friendly environment.

Food Pantry Distribution: Saturday, March 8 and 22, 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. We are happy to provide fresh produce and nutritious food to those in need. Bring your shopping bags or carts and let us serve our community together. All are welcome!

March Birthdays: To all our neighbors celebrating a birthday this month, we wish you joy, health and happiness! May your special day be filled with love and laughter. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events. Let’s continue to build a strong and vibrant community together.

—Adelina Martinez

• There are people around us who smoke and it seems like smoke is coming into my apartment through the walls. What can be done? A: Next week, the Board will vote on a resolution for a smoke-free campus. If it passes, Management will find a way to enforce it.

• There are people who take over apartments who don’t comply with the Co-op City rules. A: If you feel that someone is subletting or not legitimate, contact CSO and/or Public Safety and they will investigate.

We thank Mr. Blake for providing this important information.

Congratulations to Ms. Cassie B. Cobbs, winner of the 50-50 raffle. Information was shared about completing and returning the Window Guard form, the online Income Affidavit filing session, and upcoming events.

Next meeting: Thursday, March 20, at 7:00 p.m.

Francine

Jones

Bartow Mall Parking Alert

Shareholders, guests and shoppers are reminded that there is a two-hour parking limit in the Bartow Mall.

Parking is for the exclusive use of customers while shopping in the commercial establishments within the Bartow Mall with a posted two-hour limit. Vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Management Report ––

(Cont’d from p. 16)

that had been encumbered in August 2023. These invoices were billed by SHI International and remain as open purchase orders. To date, these invoices have not been paid due to ongoing negotiations between Riverbay and SHI International. As long as these purchase orders remain open, the Department will continue to show this negative variance.

• Construction is over budget by $53,000 due to an increase in roof repairs.

• Exterminating is $90,000 over budget due to exterminating supplies.

• Maintenance is $853,000 over budget due primarily to increased plumbing supplies, doors and convector parts and the unbudgeted gas detector project costs.

• Power Plant is $1.8 million over budget due mostly to unforeseen Ric Wil and front-loaded chemical treatment costs, and generator and pump repairs.

• Safety is $245,000 over budget due to increased environmental remediation costs and unbudgeted gas detector project costs.

CORPORATE EXPENSES

Corporate operating expenditures are under budget by 1.9% or $1.3 million primarily due to less than anticipated Insurance costs.

DEBT SERVICE & FEES

Debt service & fees were over budget by 0.0% or $85K due to greater than expected replacement reserve fees and mortgage insurance premiums required payments.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE

Overall, the grand total actual expenses of $204,454,000 which include departmental, corporate and debt service were less than anticipated against the grand total actual income of $213,176,000 which yielded a surplus of $8,722,000. Also, the year-to-date budget for grand total expenses was $209,557,000 which was more than anticipated when compared to the year-todate budget grand total revenue of $206,320,000 which yielded a negative variance of $(3,237,000)

Resolutions ––– (Continued from page 16)

Amended Second Reading - Resolution #25-03

and recommend any necessary updates; and

WHEREAS, Management has recommended the Smoking Policy appended hereto; and WHEREAS, the Board has had an opportunity to review and comment upon the Smoking Policy and Management has incorporated its comments and concerns, and the Smoking Policy appended hereto is acceptable to the Board of Directors; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Resolution #16-09B is amended and supplemented to prohibit both indoor and outdoor smoking on Riverbay property as outlined in the annexed Smoking policy: (a) where it is otherwise prohibited by law; (b) within 15’ of all building doors and windows; and (c) under porticos regardless of location; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Resolution #16-09B is amended and supplemented to authorize a $300 fine for all violations of this Smoking Policy; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect as of March 1, 2025, subject to HCR approval, and that the President and Management are authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Marbury, Peterson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, White, Wright

ABSTAIN: Leslie, Peterson

ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

Budget - Resolution #25-05

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson

BOARD OF

DIRECTORS MEETING,

DATED: February 26, 2025

WHEREAS, Management has prepared the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 25/26 and Fiscal Year 26/27 for Riverbay Corporation based on maintaining the current level of services for shareholders; and

WHEREAS, the proposed Comprehensive Budget of $315,071,999 for Fiscal Year 25/26 and $324,436,452 Fiscal Year 26/27 includes funding for the Operating Budget of $293,851,800 for Fiscal Year 25/26 and $293,508,700 for Fiscal Year 26/27 to provide for direct and indirect services to shareholders; the Capital budget of $21,220,199 for Fiscal Year 25/26 and $30,927,752 for Fiscal Year 26/27 which will provide necessary infrastructure repairs throughout the Co-op City community; and

WHEREAS, funding for Capital Projects for Fiscal Year 25/26 and Fiscal Year 26/27 will be funded through a portion of the $50 million grant from the State of New York and approximately $20 million allocated from the Replacement Reserves for these infrastructure projects; and WHEREAS, the proposed budget does not require an increase in carrying charges to maintain a balanced budget through March 31, 2027; and WHEREAS, the proposed budget is subject to review, analysis and discussion with DHCR.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the attached proposed Riverbay Corporation Comprehensive Budget for the Fiscal Year 25/26 and Fiscal Year 26/27 is approved by the Riverbay Board of Directors and the Board President and Management are authorized to submit the attached proposed Budget to NYS Homes and Community Renewal for its review and approval.

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

ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

Emergency Resolution #25-07

SOLAR INITIATIVE

SUBMITTED BY: Lynette Wright

SECONDED BY: Rod Saunders

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 26, 2025

WHEREAS, New York State’s energy policy as evidenced by the Climate Leadership and Mobilization Act is to reduce the use of carbon-based fuels; and WHEREAS, New York City’s energy policy as evidenced by Local Law 97 is to reduce the use of carbon-based fuels; and

WHEREAS, Riverbay Corporation employs a highly efficient, co-generation system to supply heat, hot water, air conditioning and electricity to its residents; and WHEREAS, the design of the existing energy system allows Riverbay to supply all electric and thermal energy needs of thirty-five high rise buildings, 472 townhouses, three community centers and eight garages, with only three boilers, fueled by turbines that can operate thirty (30%) percent on non-carbon-based hydrogen; and

WHEREAS, there presently is no source of hydrogen available to Riverbay; and WHEREAS, Riverbay Corporation is statutorily required to provide affordable housing for its residents at the lowest cost possible; and

WHEREAS, Riverbay Corporation is committed to complying with State and City energy policy by minimizing the use of carbon-based fuels to meet its energy needs while maintaining uninterrupted heating, cooling and electrical service to its residents at an affordable cost;

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED that the Riverbay Corporation shall develop a program to promote the use of renewable energy to meet its energy needs; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Management shall initiate the use of renewable energy at Riverbay by taking all necessary steps to install solar panels on the roof of Riverbay’s central power plant and the interconnection of the solar panels to Riverbay’s behind the meter micro grid and to Riverbay’s existing interconnection system with Con Edison, for a cost not to exceed $2,500,000; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Management and the Board President are authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective, including entering into contracts to implement this Resolution in accordance with Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

Emergency Resolution #25-08

SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury

SECONDED BY: Andrea Leslie

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 26, 2025

WHEREAS, contract # 3987 for Architectural and Engineering Services for Public Assembly Permits related services with Robert J Stahl Architect, PC was executed on August 12, 2024; and

WHEREAS, Robert J Stahl Architect, PC submitted to Management and the project manager an updated proposal for additional Architectural and Engineering Services needed for the Permits portion of the Public Assembly project; and WHEREAS, Management and the project manager recommends this change order #1 to add $54,815 in funding to contract # 3987 in order to continue the Architectural and Engineering Services for Permits services for the Public Assembly project; and

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order #1 request for additional funding of $54,815 plus tax under contract # 3987 with Robert J Stahl for Architectural and Engineering Services for Public Assembly Permits Services be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, Wright

NO: Johnson, White

ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

Riverbay Telephone System Call Center: (718) 320-3300

Press 1 if you have a Public Safety emergency

Press 2 to to reach the Call Center – (which still handles Maintenance, Restorations and Inspections)

Press 3 to schedule Extermination Services

Press 4 to reach Cooperator Services Office

Press 5 to reach the Rent Bookkeeper

Press 6 to reach Parking, Storage Facilities, Rental of Community Rooms & Commercial Leasing

Press 7 to reach Residential Sales

Press 8 to reach Co-op City Times

Press 9 to Dial by Directory

To repeat these options press 0. Stay on the line to speak to an Operator.

These are other numbers that may be of use for shareholders: MATV (Master Antenna) – Ext: 3529

Coinmach Laundry – (800) 734-8851

Cablevision – (718) 617-3500

over money from the previous year’s budget does not roll over into the next fiscal year and instead flows into the corporations’ reserves. He also explained that the reason Management is presenting the change order request is because the Board is required to approve any contract that exceeds $250,000.

“With this change order, this item moves into that realm,” said Mr. Walton. “Prior to this, the amount was $233,000. So, it was under the threshold and, this is what I assured Mr. President that we would do going forward, anytime there’s a change order, and that change order takes you over the Board threshold, we’re not treating that separately… We are coming to the Board to let you know. We’re asking, even though the amount for the contract was not within your guidelines, this change order has taken us and tilted us over $250,000. So, by statute to be completely transparent and help you do your fiduciary responsibility, it’s why we’re talking to you tonight.”

Director Johnson and Director Keyshawn White both expressed their concerns about why the permits and work being done hadn’t been flagged earlier.

Board President Rod Saunders then called for the Board to vote on the resolution. After a vote, Resolution #2508 was passed, with 12 Directors voting yes and two Directors voting no.

Next on the agenda was Emergency Resolution #25-07, which was presented by Board Director Lynette Wright. This resolution pertained to the Riverbay Corporations compliance with Local Law 97, which is the New York City law that was passed in 2019 and established greenhouse gas emissions limits for buildings.

Director Wright explained that the Board is voting on allocating $2.5 million from the $50 million received from the state to install solar panels on the roofs. She also shared that the Board is looking into receiving additional grants in order to ensure that the funds last.

Board President Rod Saunders then shared that the Board will be presenting to shareholders details about the solar panel initiative at a later date.

was passed with all 14 directors present voting yes.

The next resolution presented was Resolution #25-02, which was read by Procurement Director Jose Mendez. This resolution pertained to the purchasing of a procurement solutions software in order to help streamline and digitize the Procurement department’s workflow. It would be a threeyear contract and would cost the corporation $189,535.90 plus tax.

After a vote, Resolution #25-07 was passed. Eight Directors voted yes, one Directors voted no, and one director was absent for the vote.

The last resolution on the agenda was Resolution #25-03, which pertained to an amendment to Riverbay’s Smoking Policy. This resolution is in response to the results of the 2024 Riverbay Board Election where shareholders voted to update the smoking policy to include a ban of indoor smoking of tobacco or cannabis within all residential apartments.

Before the policy was presented Director Smith asked for clarification about how the policy was going to be enforced throughout the Co-op City community.

Mr. Buss responded and explained that this amended policy would expand on the resolution passed in 2016 that banned smoking inside building common areas and community centers and imposed a fine for violations of those rules. This new amended resolution will now also prohibit both indoor and outdoor smoking on Riverbay property and will include a $300 fine for violations. Individuals will also be prohibited from smoking within 15 feet of any building entrance or window, or on their balcony, terrace, or under any portico, regardless of the distance from the building entrance.

“This also applies to cigarettes, cigars, vaping, you know, whatever it is that you’ve got that smolders or smokes, you’re not allowed to do that under this resolution,” said Mr. Buss. “It applies to anyone on Co-op City property, so it’s not just shareholders that are prohibited by this.”

“HCR regulations prohibit imposing any fee or charge upon a shareholder that’s not approved by them,” explained Mr. Buss. “They want to make sure that you don’t back door around affordability by fining people. So, we have to get their approval to do that fine.”

Mr. Buss also explained that Management has and will be working closely with Public Safety in order to help with enforcement, whether that be by asking people to put out whatever they are smoking or by escorting people off the premises and handing out fines. He also explained that enforcing the policy inside of the apartments will be tricky and that people are going to complain.

Director Smith then asked if there is also some type of time frame that Management will be under to update the smoking policy. She also asked if the policy might impact any other policies and what the implementation period would look like to make sure shareholders, visitors and contractors know about the updated policy.

According to Mr. Buss, the implementation plan will be carried out by Management and for the first 60 days of the policy change, Management will be working on educating shareholders and anyone else about the updated policy. He also explained that for individuals who are renting out spaces in Co-op City, they will be updating the event space policies to include the new smoking rules. Vendors and contractors will also be alerted to the change.

Director Wright then asked if the greenways were considered a park and if they would be included in the policy update.

Mr. Buss responded and said that the greenways are not technically considered parks, but if there is a community or public event being held on the greenways, no smoking will be allowed.

Director Wright expressed her concern about how they would be able to implement and hand out fines or even prove that someone had been smoking inside of their apartment.

In response Mr. Buss explained that they aren’t going to be setting up designated spots for smoking and that Management does recognize that smoking is an addiction. However, he said that if there is a designated space, that area would have to be policed and cleaned regularly as people will leave behind cigarette butts. He also said that Riverbay legally doesn’t have an obligation to create a designated space.

“Some people are addicted and they’re not going to be able to stop, so this is going to be difficult for them,” said Mr. Buss. “They might come to Cooperator Appeals and tell you that I shouldn’t have to pay because I’m addicted. But our rule is very clear. We’re going to educate people. We will have a town hall. Maybe some social services organizations might want to get involved… But this rule is what the shareholders said they want and it’s what the Board had talked about. And we’re going to have Management do its best efforts and Public Safety do its best efforts to enforce it.”

He also reassured shareholders that Management will be working with shareholders as they roll the policy out.

“So, this is going to be an evolution,” said Mr. Buss. “We’re going to roll it out, and we’re gonna learn. And changes will need to be made to make sure that it works and that it’s effective. And there are problems that you can’t envision until you open it up.”

The big change with this policy and the hardest part about the implementation will be stopping shareholders from smoking inside of their apartments.

Mr. Walton also chimed in and said that the implementation plan isn’t set in stone and Management will be working with shareholders and are always open to input from the Board or shareholders. He also reiterated that people can still smoke as long as they follow the guidelines laid out.

After a vote, Resolution #25-07

He also explained that the fine will also be approved by HCR before it goes into effect.

Director Kevin Lambright then also asked if the implementation plan included creating designated spots for people to smoke as he recognizes that smoking is an addiction.

“As long as you’re 15 feet away from that door, you can smoke. That’s the way the policy is written,” said Mr. Walton.

After the discussion, the Board voted on Resolution #25-03. It was passed with 12 Directors voting yes and two Directors abstaining. Budget ––– (Continued from page 14)

Statepoint Crossword: Theme – March Madness

ACROSS

1. Giant Himalayan

5. *M in MAC

8. Bathtub libation

11. Joie de vivre

12. Do like fly fisherman

13. East side of Jersey

15. Tucked in

16. Diva’s solo

17. Length of a forearm

18. *____ Sunday

20. Osiris’ wife

21. Freshwater fish

22. Stir fry pan

23. Victorian era overcoat

26. Smallest

30. *Like attending band at the NCAA Tournament

31. Kaa of “The Jungle Book”

34. Great Lake

35. Prep mushrooms for steak, e.g.

37. Cooking fat

38. Bible song

39. Second to last word in some fairytales

40. False

42. Dip oreo into milk, e.g.

43. Tiresome

45. Hoariest

47. NBC’s sketch comedy show

48. Misrepresent

50. South American monkey

52. *2025 NCAA Championship game venue

56. Renaissance fiddle

57. “To ____ and to hold”

58. ____-friendly

59. Founding Father Thomas ____

60. Damien’s prediction

61. Reunion group

62. Bancroft to Hoffman in “The Graduate”

63. Agreement word

64. Ages and ages

DOWN

1. Nay opposers

2. River in Bohemia

3. 1.3 ounces, in Asia

4. Owes money (2 words)

5. Angelina Jolie’s 2024 singing role

6. “Kick the bucket,” e.g.

7. *____ Smith, coach of 2 champs and 11 Final Four teams

8. Mongolian desert

9. Fleur-de-lis

10. *Cut down at end of last game

12. Like rheumy eyes

13. Descendant

14. *2024 winners

19. Thin pancake

22. *____ and move on

23. *Cinderella’s victory

24. Furlough

25. Spew, past tense

26. Cough syrup balsam

27. Use other end of pencil?

28. Farm structures

29. Dangle a carrot

32. *____-up or evenly matched game

33. Step on it

36. *2024 Most Outstanding Player Newton

38. Paralyzing disease, for short

40. Afghan monetary unit

41. Neolithic tomb

44. “Riunite ____ ____, that’s nice”

46. Figure out

48. Scapegoat’s due

49. Roof overhang

50. Salty drop

51. Avian wader

52. Sailor call

53. Capital of Norway

54. Statistics calculation

55. Sea eagles

56. Dashboard acronym (Answer Key on page 21)

New York Yankees Community Council Youth Leadership Award

The New York Yankees Community Council will provide a $750 stipend to five deserving students nominated by Bronx Community Board #10 to receive the Youth Leadership Award.

Applicants must have performed 50 hours of leadership/volunteer work as a tutor, mentor, community unity developer, and/or as an advocate against violence or substance abuse in their community.

Bronx Community Board #10 is seeking high school seniors who reside in the Bronx Community Board #10 service area and meet the service requirements above.

Applicants are required to submit a completed nomination form and attach a resume stating the applicant’s: name, address, education, voluntary and/or extracurricular activities, work experience, awards, etc., to Bronx Community Board #10, 3165 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, via mail, email (bx10@ cb.nyc.gov), or by hand (normal business hours: Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Application deadline is Friday, April 21, 2023. All submissions must be received by this date.

If mailing a submission, please allow sufficient time. Also, emailed submissions should include “New York Yankees Community Council Youth Leadership Award” in the subject line.

A nomination form can be downloaded from the Bronx Community Board #10 website, www.nyc.gov/ bronxcb10, under Announcements, or on Facebook.com/BronxCommunityBoard10, or requested by contacting the Board Office at 718-892-1161.

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

Building 10 Association

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

Building Captains – The Building 10 Association is looking for building captains. If you are interested in becoming a building captain, please slip a note under the association room door with your name and phone number and we will get back to you.

Tip of the Week – Please do not spray Lysol in the dryers. Lysol is highly flammable. Spraying Lysol in the dryer may cause a fire that can result in our laundry room being closed for several weeks and a possible Community Complaint. Please do not spray Lysol in the dryers.

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. 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.

“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

–

Barack Obama

Have a great week.

––Jewel

Crawford-Duncan

Section 5 Association

Make sure to dress properly as we are having very cold and windy days. So, bundle up. Hopefully, we are heading towards spring.

Section Five Meeting – Discussion of permits required! Riverbay has implemented a procedure to safeguard the newly updated elevators from potential damage. A permit to use the elevators to deliver, move or dispose of furniture/ appliances must be requested from CSO (Cooperator Services Office). This ensures the protection of the elevators from damage.

Permits for moving in/moving out of Co-op City must be obtained from the Residential Sales Office. Permits for the delivery of furniture/appliances, the partial move of furniture(children returning from college) and the disposal of furniture or large items( must be brought to the basement) can be obtained from CSO. Please follow the procedures outlined to help protect the elevators and maintain the quality of service for all shareholders. Only shareholders can request a permit. Contact CSO at 718-320-3300, option 4, with any questions or

concerns.

Public Safety Report – Have you read the reports? The reports are quite interesting. They have information that we can learn from and were not aware of. Parking Enforcement – Tell your friends and neighbors to be aware and not park block the fire hydrants in Co-op City. Look on the sidewalk before leaving the car. Many fires have happened this winter and news outlets have reported cases where hydrants were not accessible due to cars blocking the hydrants.

Happy birthday to those celebrating this month.

If you know that a neighbor is sick, or in the hospital, please contact Section5association10@gmail.com. To those in bereavement, you have our deepest sympathy.

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

Baldwin

—Hattie Overman

Building 26 Association

Hello March! Celebrating Women’s History and Community Strength

As February comes to a close, we reflect on a powerful month filled with history, resilience, and inspiration. One of the highlights was our Movie and Meal event, where we screened, “The Six Triple Eight.” There wasn’t a dry eye in the room, but there were also moments of pride and triumph.

One particularly moving scene featured Major Charity Adams boldly responding to General Hale, who threatened to send a white officer to show her how to run her unit: “Over my dead body!” This line was based on a real-life incident during WWII when she faced the threat of a court-martial, though the charges were ultimately dropped. Her defiance and leadership embodied the dual battles these brave women fought—serving their country while confronting racial and gender discrimination.

Now, we step into March, National Women’s History Month, ready to celebrate the contributions and achievements of women throughout history and in our own community.

March Food Demonstration & Distribution – Date Change!

We have an exciting lineup for our Yummy and Healthy Lifestyle Series this March! Due to popular demand, we’ve adjusted the schedule: Saturday, March 8: 12 p.m.-2 p.m.

• Food demos at 12 p.m., 12:30 p.m., and 1 p.m.

• Cardiovascular screenings provided by Essen Healthcare.

• A nutritionist on-site to offer guidance on plate portions and healthy eating.

• Chef Al Quattelbaum will demonstrate how to make the perfect Caesar dressing from scratch. All attendees will receive a sample and recipe! Saturday, March 22: 12 p.m.-2 p.m.

• Food demos at 12 p.m., 12:30 p.m., and 1 p.m. More details to come!

With the changes in the weather comes nasty colds and flu. Please take care of yourself and do not be quick to change out of your warm clothing. Unfortunately, sometimes while it warms up during the day, the coldness in the evening will get you sneezing. Stay safe and stay warm.

Gas Detector: If you were unavailable on the scheduled dates for the installation of your gas detector, please contact the Safety Department at 718320-3300, Ext. 3388, to reschedule. When you call, leave a message with your identity and someone from the department will return your call.

Building Collection: In March, we will begin to set up some dates to collect our building dues. If you are interested in volunteering to assist in the collection, please reach out to our vice president, Mr. Mattison. When dates and times are established, a notice will be posted in the bulletin board.

Game Night: Keep your eyes on the bulletin board for upcoming information.

The Mall at Bay Plaza Bronx Entrepreneurship Scholarship Foundation is awarding three students

A Few Tips:

• Supplies go fast! We highly recommend arriving early. Doors open promptly at 12 p.m.

• If you know a neighbor who is homebound or ill and can’t attend, let us know. We’d love to find a way to include them!

• We need volunteers! If you’d like to help out at our March sessions, email us today!

Join Our Leadership Team!

We are currently accepting nominations for positions on the Building 26 Association Board! As a nonprofit, our mission is to grow, innovate, and serve our community—but as our ideas expand, so does our need for passionate team members.

If you love what we do and want to be part of something meaningful, consider running for a position or finding other ways to get involved. We welcome team players, community leaders, and fresh thinkers to help make a lasting impact!

Honoring Our History & Moving Forward

As we transition from Black History Month to Women’s History Month, we carry forward the spirit of those who paved the way. As Maya Angelou once said, “If you don’t know where you’ve come from, you don’t know where you’re going.”

Let’s continue to honor the past, empower the present, and build a stronger future together.

For more information or to volunteer, contact us: CoopCityTA26@gmail.com.

—Tanya Cruz-Cooke

Building 13 Association

$12,000 each. Filing is open now for students who are Bronx residents and a graduating high school senior who has been accepted into an accredited four-year college or university with a 3.0 or higher-grade point average. To see if you qualify, go to: mallatbayplaza.com/scholarship. If you do, write a one-page essay and submit essay and transcript by April 1, 2025 to: Apply@BronxEFSC.com.

Consideration Corner:

• Please remember to have your dog on a leash at all times when in public spaces and outdoors, as it is the law.

• Please scoop the poop when walking your dog.

• Take your pet to the street and not under the portico to urinate.

• Please make sure to monitor your clothes in the laundry room and remove them when the machine stops.

Summer Fun Day: The Building 13 Association along with the Section 2 Buildings and Townhouses (Buildings 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, Cooper

Place and Debs Place Townhouses) meet and discuss our plans for the upcoming Summer Fun Day. This year, our Section 2 Summer Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 21. We hope to bring some new activities and maybe some old favorites. If you are interested in volunteering, inform your building or townhouse executive board. We want to thank Councilman Riley, DYCD, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home and Bob’s Discount Furniture for their assistance in sponsoring this endeavor.

“Peace is the beauty of life. It is sunshine. It is the smile of a child, the love of a mother, the joy of a father, the togetherness of a family. It is the advancement of man, the victory of a just cause, the triumph of truth.” –Menachem Begin

Visit our Facebook page at Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City, or e-mail us at building13assoc@yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370; or Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.

––Leslie Peterson

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle

177 Dreiser Loop, second floor, Room 2.

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

This Sunday is the Sunday before Lent. It is a day of devotion to the Holy Spirit, the fire of love. As the lesson from (1 Corinthians) and the prayer for today makes clear for us, nothing is worth doing if it is done without love. We seek power and guidance from the Holy Spirit to accomplish all of our works with love so that we may be able to follow what Jesus taught us: “love one another.” (John 13:34)

The Sunday before Lent, March 2nd, 2025

● 11:00 a.m. – Communion Service

● Fellowship with light refreshments following the service Bible Lessons:

● (1 Corinthians 13:1-13)

● (Matthew 20:1-16)

Prayer: O Holy Spirit, who hast taught us that all our doings without love are nothing worth, pour into our hearts that most excellent gift of love, the very bond of peace and of all virtues, without which whosoever liveth is counted dead before thee; who livest and reignest with the Father and the Son, one God for evermore. Amen.

––Rev. Dorian Miceli

Building 25 Association

Greetings, Building 25 cooperators. Can you believe it is March already? Boy, time is flying. Best wishes to everyone celebrating their birthday in March. Cheers!

March is National Women’s History Month. This year’s theme is, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations.” We recognize the exceptional achievements of all women throughout the world who faced major challenges, but through dedication and determination, they “Still Rise.” Let that be an inspiration for others.

The building association’s general meeting was held on February 18 in the meeting room under the portico. We received valuable information, handouts, and updates on issues and concerns related to Building 25 and Co-op City residents, in general. We were reminded that shareholders of record should consider completing/updating an Emergency Contact Information form. The form is available at the CSO office. Also, the Co-op City Department of Public Safety offers a service to residents of Co-op City called, “Are You Okay?” The program is for older adults, disabled persons, and shut-ins living alone. The application and additional information is available from our Department of Public Safety. We extend our sincere gratitude to the shareholders who attended the meeting. Your presence, support, and feedback are highly valued and appreciated.

Our next building association general meeting will be on March 18, at 7:30 p.m., in the meeting room under the portico. We look forward to seeing you. If you are unable to attend the meetings, you may use the association’s email bldg25association@gmail.com or the suggestion box in our laundry room to communicate with the association’s board. A board member will acknowledge and respond to messages and notes as quickly as possible. We welcome and appreciate your input into the operation of our building association. The yearly building association’s dues are $5.00 per family.

Sick and Shut-ins: We wish you well.

Condolences: Our deepest sympathy to the families who have recently lost a loved one.

Have a safe week everyone!

—Evelyn Herbert

AM - 2:00 PM

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

The Traditional Synagogue is happy to announce that we will be having a post Purim brunch. Come join us for a wonderful afternoon on Sunday, March 16, at 1:00 p.m. The brunch is completely free of charge.

The synagogue is located at 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 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 10:00 a.m. After serving, we serve 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, so no steps. Our phone number is 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon 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 10:00 a.m., so we can take out the Torah. The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City.

Sabbath ends on Saturday, March 1, at 6:39 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, March 7, at 5:34 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. Happy birthday to San Grynewize and all our members who will be celebrating their birthday in March. 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

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo Light in Darkness

From the beginning of creation, God gave humans the responsibility to care for His creation. God is not dependent on people but allows them to partner with Him to uphold His work. God made the ground and honored man in allowing him to labor in it.

(Genesis 2:5) “Now no shrub had yet appeared on the earth and no plant had yet sprung up, for the Lord God had not sent rain on the earth and there was no one to work the ground.”

Later in the prophets we see God choosing people to mediate between himself and others to stop destruction. He does not find anyone. There were prophets, and people who claimed him as God but they were unfocused and unreliable.

(Ezekiel 22:30) “I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Jesus arrives on the scene and establishes His church. It is vibrant, holy, and strong. It is elevated before the world to guide and mediate for God. Jesus said he was the light and now we are the light. We cannot hide from the burdens of society.

(Matthew 5:14) “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

The light the church provides benefits everyone. We are called to be benefactors of society just as we have benefitted from God. Jesus instructs us to live a life intentionally seeking the good of others and thus point them to God through our actions.

(Matthew 6:22) “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!”

The church must be careful to represent God correctly. There must be a solid vision of what God desires or we can get lost in details and traditions that are neither Biblical nor godly.

Schedule (147 Dreiser Loop)

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

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

Tuesday Prayer, 10:00 a.m., & Bible Study, 12 p.m.

Wednesday Nonperishable food distribution, 12-2 p.m.

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

Friday Spanish Bible Study, 12 p.m., & Youth Service, 6:30-9 p.m.

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

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

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

Blessings in Christ,

––Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.

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. 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

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8 NIV)

As we continue to explore what (Micah 6:8) reveals about God's desires for us, it is essential to recognize that doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God are not only requirements from the Lord; they also lead us to a meaningful and blessed life. Each of these three actions holds equal importance. They are interwoven and challenge us to align our faith with our actions.

God is a merciful God who continually pours out His mercy on His people. In response, we are called to love mercy, or, in some translations, kindness. Loving mercy implies a shared loyalty and faithfulness to God’s love, which is reflected in how we treat others. Jesus tells us that the world should recognize us by our love. This love is not meant solely for those who love us or can offer something in return; it is meant to be extended to everyone, even those who wrong us. Scripture reminds us that God is a just God, and He will bring judgment to all injustice.

To walk humbly with God forms the foundation for loving mercy and doing justice. Because of God's love and all He has done for us, we trust His word and obey His will. Walking in obedience means fully committing to treating others with mercy and justice, all while remaining humble. Walking humbly also involves surrendering to the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, acknowledging that our position is solely a result of God’s grace.

(Micah 6:8) should propel us into action. It holds the potential to transform our lives and deepen our faith if we live by it. Let us pray for guidance and commit to doing what God has shown us. Come and Receive a Blessing: All are welcome!

Theme for 2025: “God’s Love in Action with Joy and Thanksgiving”

Tuesday: English Bible Study at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom (904 4685745).

“Rediscovering Our Spiritual Gifts” by Charles V. Bryant. Pantry at 11:00 a.m.

Upcoming Events – Save the dates. Thursday, February 27 – LCOA Workshop- Healthy Habits at 12:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 2 – Escuela Dominical at10:15 a.m.

Bilingual Service at 11:15 a.m. – Communions, birthdays and Women’s History Month Celebration

Wednesday, March 5 – Ash Wednesday service at 11:00 a.m.

Beginning of Lent – Time for self-examination and reflection. Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27, and April 3, 10 – Soup at Lectio Divina at 11 a.m.

––Graciela Abadia

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry: 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). Pantry is open Thursday and Friday, 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 four to six 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, 11a.m.-1 p.m. Groceries are supplied and distributed by Black Forum. Religious affiliation not required. For the safety of our staff and other guests, mask-wearing is required.

New Client Registration & Re-Certification for Returners: Registration and recertification goes through March 2025. To register or re-certify, individuals must be 18 years or older and present a valid IDNYC card (zip code 10475), NY State Driver's License, or NY State Non-Driver's License. Call 311 to apply for a free IDNYC card. Passports, Medicaid and Medicare cards, employment identification, and Access-ARide 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. Please bring a mid-sized to large shopping cart and clean shopping bags for grocery pick up. All current pantry guests must re-certify to continue receiving food assistance. New guests and those who previously registered but did not re-certify in 2024 are also welcome to register.

Those living in Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4 should register or re-certify at 920 Baychester Avenue. Section 5 residents should go to United Methodist Church on 2350 Palmer Avenue. Registration and recertification go through March 2025.

Upcoming Trips: Black Forum is excited to announce an exciting season of events in 2025!

Saturday, April 26: Join us for a trip to the Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, PA. Enjoy a $65 trip fee, including $25 in casino Slot Play. Payments due by March 21.

Saturday, June 28: Get ready for a day of fun at Caesars Atlantic City Casino, NJ. The trip fee is $65. Casino Slot Play is $10. Payments due by May 16. Saturday, August 16: Join us for a visually stunning show at Sight & Sound –NOAH! Then, enjoy lunch at Shady Maple Smorgasbord. Cost is $225. First payment to hold a seat is $75 and is due by April 25; second payment of $75 is due by May 23; last payment of $75 is due by June 20.

Note: No refunds will be issued. Bus pick-up locations: 920 Baychester, Asch Loop, and Einstein Community Center. For more information on these trips, please call 917209-5334 or 929-464-5520.

Contact Us: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com

––D. Illis

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, retirees and friends, Happy March everyone! Yes, we are moving right along to the third month of this year. Time surely flies when we are having fun.

Dreamgirls at the White Plains Performing Arts Center – Sold Out. Thursday, May 1, 2 p.m. show. The bus will pick up in front of H&R Block at 12:30 p.m. Contact Serita for additional information at 347-564-5722.

Tropicana Casino Atlantic City Overnight – Two-days/one-night trip, Wednesday May 28-Thursday May 29. The price is $295 double occupancy or $345 single occupancy; includes a $25 food credit, $15 slot play and a “Tribute to Tony Bennett” show. A $50 deposit is due now to reserve a seat. The bus pick up will be in front of H&R Block in Dreiser Loop.

Note: Serita will be available to collect trip payments at the Retirees’ monthly meeting on Wednesday, March 12, 1-2 p.m. in Auditorium C.

Save the Date – Please mark your calendars and save the date for our June luncheon to be held at the Marina del Rey on Wednesday, June 18.

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

Condolences – We continue to keep those who have recently suffered a loss in our thoughts and prayers.

Good and Welfare – Please continue to keep Jay McKenzie in your healing thoughts and prayers along with any others who may be ill and/or shut-in. Please remember to 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 meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 12, at 1 p.m., in the Dreiser Center, Auditorium C. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend.

—Georgianna Rodriguez

Co-op City shareholders are homeowners, not tenants. Participate in community activities!

Co-op City Toastmasters Club

As we are halfway into the first quarter of the year, we are meeting our goals in Co-op City Toastmasters. We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth. We invite you to visit us and see if we are what you are looking for.

At our last meeting, our newest TM, Jasmine Wade, completed her first speech titled, “Live Your Truth,” demonstrating that she is already a good speaker. The first speech in Toastmasters is called, “Ice Breaker,” because it literally “breaks the ice,” and we get to know a little about the speaker and then subsequently provide confidence-building feedback that will aid the speaker. TM Jasmine's speech was very good. She pulled us in, had us wanting more and kept good eye contact with the audience. Welcome again, TM Jasmine Wade.

The Toastmaster of the evening, TM Andrea Haye, moved the meeting along smoothly and amicably as she engaged with the audience, including young toastmasters-to-be, who were online and in the room. Yes, I said online. We are looking to make our meetings hybrid once again. Toastmaster of the Day is one of the leadership roles that is filled at every meeting. TM Andrea has grown to one of our premier speakers with progress as a toastmaster. She carried us through a great and fun-filled meeting.

Announcements

CCTM: Mark your calendar for the following events.

March 4: Area Speech Contests held in Bartow Mall, 2049 Bartow Ave., LL, Rm. 28.

March 6: A Night at the Oscars, 177 Dreiser Loop. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Bring business cards.

March 20: Celebrating Women's History

March 29: Celebrating Open House (more details to follow)

BAS (Advanced Speakers): Mark your calendar. All welcome to participate.

March 11: Meeting with guest speaker at 7 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 5.

For more information, please call 917-299-2429.

—Kim Sudderth

Goose Island Seniors

Resort World – Canceled and rescheduled for March 13. Bus pick-up: Einstein Loop at 8:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 9:15 a.m. Refunds are available for those who cannot make the trip. Uptown Motown Show at the Tropicana Casino in AC – Thurs., March 27. Price: $160; bonus: $25 slot play and $20 for food; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due: Feb. 26. Bus pick-up: Einstein Loop at 7:45 a.m., in front of pizza shop and Dreiser Loop at 8:15 a.m., in front of the hardware store.

Sight and Sound “Noah’s Ark” – Tues., April 15. Price: $225. Lunch at Miller’s Smorgasbord. Call: 646-579-1701.

Live Casino – in Philadelphia, PA; Thurs., April 24. Price: $70. No bonus, no food coupon. Celebrating Ione Foote’s birthday on bus. Wait list only. Balance due March 5.

Hunterdon Hills Playhouse “Swing” – in Hampton, NJ; Thurs. May 1. Price: $180; includes luncheon and show; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due: March 26.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Tues., June 10. Price: $70; bonus: $25 slot play. Balance due: May 21.

Resorts Casino – Atlantic City, NJ; Tues., July 15. Price: $70; bonus: $10 slot play.

Myrtle Beach Show Trip – Mon., Aug. 25–Aug. 30. Call: 646-579-1701.

Holiday Hills Senior Day – in Prospect, CT; Tues., Aug. 19. Price: $150; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due: July 2.

Portrait of Aretha Franklin Show – Resort World Monticello, NY; Thurs., Sept. 10. Price: $150; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Bonus: $25 slot play. Private buffet lunch in casino.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Thurs., Oct. 9. Price: $70; bonus: $25 slot play. Balance due: Sept. 10.

Foxwoods Casino and Tanger Outlet – Thurs., Nov. 6, in Mashantucket, CT. No bonus, no meal voucher. Price: $70.

Brownstone Holiday Party – Mon., Dec. 8, in Patterson, NJ. Price: $165. Delicious luncheon, dancing, DJ and band. Bus pick-up: Einstein Loop at 8:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 9:15 a.m.

2026 Norwegian Greek Isle Cruise – May 18–27, 2026. Price: $3,2933,945. Call: 646-579-1701.

Notary – with Yvonne Menefee cancelled until further notice.

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

Game day – Tues. and Thurs., between 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dominoes, movies, socializing and more. Members only. Refreshments.

To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of March: Stephen Roberts Sr., Minerva Gordian, Lourdes Lopez, Michelle Rosenthal, Liz Pelaez, Benjamin Carter, Joeann Mattison, Pearl Applewhite and Kerrie A. Perry. The birthday cake celebration is Wed., March 12, at Bingo half-time, 2:15 p.m.-2:45 p.m.

Sick and Shut-in – Zoraida Garcia, Iraida (Greta) Feliciano, Yvonne Menefee recuperating. 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, at 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.

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 Schedule

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

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

Every Wednesday: 7 p.m. Online Bible Study via Zoom Log in on Zoom.com or dial One Tap Mobile: 646-931-3860 or 929-205-6099. Meeting ID: 813 089 803 39.

Save The Dates

Sunday, March 8: Usher’s Anniversary Service Saturday, March 22: 11 a.m., Shepherd’s Ministry Prayer Brunch with Bishop Mary Freeman-Coaxum. Donation: $25.

Wednesday, March 5: 6 p.m., Ash Wednesday Service. Thursday & Friday, March 27 & 28: Revival!

Black History Sunday ended on a high note. First, our resident disc jockey and podcaster, Deacon Samuel Wilson, Jr., introduced us to WGPR-TV (Where God’s Presence Radiates), the first Black-owned and operated television station out of Detroit, Michigan in 1975. Miss Roxie Rain Lawson, first granddaughter, followed with her report on Alvin Ailey, famed dancer, director, choreographer, activist and founder of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Roxie, at seven years old, exclaimed she is proud to be a part of his legacy studying dance at the Ailey School.

Pastor Owens shared with us a unique message, “One Nation – No, We’re Not…” Read Psalms 139:1-14 and Ephesians 3:20-21. Pastor asked us to recite the Pledge of Allegiance then questioned—"are we really one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all when all the wealth and power are controlled by a select few? Are we really one nation when so many people are homeless, living without medical insurance and trapped in minimal wage jobs?” The answer is a resounding no, but we are under God. We must keep our faith, hearts and minds strong under God because our ultimate accountability is to Him. In conclusion, the congregation rejoiced and sang, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Thank you for worshipping with us. We hope you will join us tomorrow beginning with Adult Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. Come experience and explore all the new possibilities at Community Protestant, a church of love and understanding.

We extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Brother Randall Phillips and family on the passing of his brother, Dwayne Phillips, and to all who are in a season of mourning. To our sick and shut in members, we are praying for you and for your speedy recovery. We wish everyone celebrating their birthday this month a very happy birthday.

“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” Ephesians 3:20

—Lexa M. Mingo

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

Bartow OAC March Shopping Trips – Stew Leonard’s, 3/12; BJ’s, 3/14; Trader Joe’s, 3/19; Amazing Savings/Shoprite, 3/27; Walmart, NJ, 3/26; Costco, 3/28. Trips are $6, except for Walmart which is $12.

Acupuncture w/Dr. Flora Luyando – Bartow NORC Office, Wed., March 5 & April 2, 11 a.m. Call 718-320-2066.

Computer Class – in the JASA NORC office every Wed., 4-5 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 to register. (Using Chromebook)

Free Tax Preparation in the JASA NORC Office, 2049 Bartow Ave. starting Monday, Feb. 3rd. Income Limit: up to $60,000.

Mondays only from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 718-3202066 for an appointment.

Bartow OAC Trip: Medieval Times – Lyndhurst, NJ; show & lunch, Thurs., March 29. Cost: $130.

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

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

Mindful Mornings Tai Chi

9 a.m.-10 a.m.

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

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

Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Ageless Facials & Self Care 1-3 p.m. (Appt. only)

Walk w/Odessa

On Winter Break

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

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

Adult Coloring, 12-1 p.m.

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

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

Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa

10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Line Dancing w/Cynthia, Wed. & Fri., 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. (NORC) Office ONLY

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

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

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

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, 2-4:30 p.m., JASA NORC office NORC Office Only: Bereavement Hour w/Chaplain Gladys Baez, every Friday, 1 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 Dinner Hour: 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

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

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

Word Games

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

Bingo on Saturdays

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

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

Bridge to Care Arthritis Exer cise w/Damion 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Technology Lab w/Steve 1-2 p.m.

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

Stretch & Tone w/Ola 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Bodies in Motion w/Ola

11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Board Games, 1 p.m.-2 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.

Chit & Chat, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Fit for Life Exercise w/Gail 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Coloring for Calmness

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

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

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

Let’s Get It On Zumba 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Steel Drum Classes – Wed., 1-3 p.m., NORC Office.

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

Notary: JASA NORC Office – Weds. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for an appointment.

Notary: Dreiser OAC – Weds., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-320-1345 for an appointment, Rm. 7.

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 718671-5161 for appointments

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

Weekend Recap Discussion

9-10 a.m.

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

Leisure TV, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Nutrition Presentation w/ Amelia 1:15-2:15 p.m. Meeting ID: 816 1164 3463, Passcode: dreiser23

Current Events, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Art w/Gerry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 6

Leisure Games w/Clara

1 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

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

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

Computer & Tablet class w/ Ralph (Virtual), 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Leisure TV, 10-11 a.m.

(Returning) Bead & Jewelry w/ Brenda, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Technology Class w/Steve 1:15-2:15 p.m.

Trip to World Trade Center/Oculus 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

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

Body in Motion w/Ola 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Aud. A Leisure TV, 2-4 p.m.

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, 1 p.m.-2:50 p.m., Rm. 4

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

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

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

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

LUNCH: KOSHER: (Plant Based) Breaded Vegetable Cutlet, Whole Wheat Spaghetti, Italian Blend Vegetables; NON KOSHER: Spanish Style Baked Chicken, Italian Blend Vegetables, Roasted Sweet Potato Slices

NO DINNER SERVED

LUNCH: KOSHER: Moroccan Salmon, Roasted Potatoes, Mix Vegetables NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Beef Stew, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Breaded Vegetable Cutlet, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Glazed Butternut Squash, Banana; NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Baked Fish, Roasted Sweet Potato Slices, Italian Blend Vegetables, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: Beef Meatloaf, Baked Brown Rice Pilaf, Sautéed String beans; NON-KOSHER: Jerk Chicken, Rice & Beans, Braised Collard Greens

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Beef Meatloaf, Brown Rice, Sautéed String Beans, Apple NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Beef Stew, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli, Orange

LUNCH: KOSHER: Baked Fish, Baked sweet potatoes, Vegetable mix NON-KOSHER: (Plant Based) Buffalo Chick Pea Power Grain Bowl, Basic Pasta Salad

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: NON-KOSHER:

KOSHER: Baked Fish, Baked Sweet Potato, Steamed Mixed Vegetables, Orange NON KOSHER: Jerk Chicken Rice & Beans, Braised Collard Greens, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: Roasted Chicken Legs, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Spiced Mixed Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish w/ Black Bean Sauce, Pasta, Normandy Blend

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: NON-KOSHER:

KOSHER: Roasted Chicken Legs, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Baby Carrots w/ Parsley, Peach (10 Grab & Go)

NON-KOSHER: Chickpea Power Grain Bowl, Basic Pasta Salad, Banana

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

KOSHER: Grilled Chicken Breast, Roasted Potatoes w/ Vegetables, Steamed Vegetables, Kiwi

NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish w/ Black Bean Sauce, Penne Pasta, Normandy Blend Vegetables, Orange

Co-op City Baptist Church

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

The 11 a.m. service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web.zoom. us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line; (646) 568-7788, Meeting ID: 962 343 0102#, Password: 788175#. You can also go to YouTube, search for Co-op City Baptist Church and watch us there.

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

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

The Gospel Line Dance Class will meet this morning, Saturday, March 1, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. in the Einstein Community Center in Room 35. There is no fee for this class. Come, pray, dance and worship the Lord.

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

On Sunday, March 9, at the 11 a.m. service, the Diaconate and Trustee Min-

Building 6 Association

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this it finds you in good standing. It’s March and spring is only 21 days away.

Happy Ramadan to all of the neighbors who are of the Muslim faith community. Ramadan Kareem.

Happy Women’s Herstory Month. This week’s article features philanthropist, poet, author and phenomenal Black woman Maya Angelou. Here are three fun facts about her:

1. She was the first Black woman to drive a cable car in San Francisco.

2. She won three Grammys for her spoken word albums.

3. She was the second poet to recite work at a Presidential inauguration. She wrote the poem, “On the Pulse of the Morning,” for Bill Clinton’s inauguration in 1993.

Women’s Herstory Month is an annual observance to highlight the contri-

butions of women to events in Herstory and contemporary society.

Neighbors, please continue to use proper laundry room etiquette. Please remove your laundry within 15 minutes of completion. Never use the laundry cart for sorting or place soiled items in there.

As the saying goes, if you see something, say something. Call 718-6713050 or dial 911.

If you are experiencing any mental health issues, please dial 988, the hotline is open 24/7.

For events or activities, always read your weekly Co-op City Times and check the Crawler in the lobby or the association bulletin board.

As always, I pray for safety over all.

God speed.

“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish” —Michelle

Obama

—Lauren K. Lassiter

istries will celebrate their anniversary. The guest preacher will be Rev. Diane Simmons, co-pastor of Life Line Ministries, Bronx, NY. All are invited to this celebratory service.

The next CCBC Food Giveaway will be distributed on Friday, March 14, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. in front of the Einstein Community Center. Please remember to bring your own bag and perhaps a cart. Some products can be heavy.

March is Women’s History Month. The First Lady’s Ministry presents “HerStory” on Saturday, March 22, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the church. The guest speaker will be Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. The theme this year is: “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations.” Donation: adults, $15; youth and young adults, $5. A light lunch will be served. For further information, kindly contact the church at 718-320-3774.

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

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Good day, neighbors. Black History Month, February 2025, has been celebrated all month. Please let’s all make a special effort to honor Black history throughout the year and always. Here are a couple of facts about February that you may not know, but they are important to know. Two heroes of Black History were born in February. Congressman John Lewis was born on February 21, 1940; he died July 17, 2020. Rosa Parks, the heroine of desegregating buses, was born on February 4, 1913, and died October 24, 2005. Congressman Lewis, in addition to serving as a congressman, is also remembered as the chief organizer of the March on Washington as well as other Civil Rights events. He also came to Co-op City’s Dreiser Auditorium and we were there for that.

The next subject to note is that it is very good and important that we get to know the departments and directors of Riverbay Corporation. Are you enjoying their feature articles so far? Let the Co-op City Times know how you feel about this new feature.

Regarding “Window-Guard forms” as a townhouse resident, it doesn’t apply to you unless you have elected to purchase window guards. There is a line in the article, “in all high-rise apartment buildings.” But if you have a question, call CSO.

Secure balcony and terrace items that are blowing in the wind or remove them for the season.

Congratulations to the new businesses that have opened. We wish them success and hope residents will patronize them. Lately, the former shoe repair in Dreiser has been replaced by another store.

Our Broun Place Association accepts new members any time. The membership fee is $12 a year. Fees go to supplies and support of emergency efforts, for example, in case of a neighbor or family member’s death. Neighbors, we need your support, join the townhouse association.

Did you know vehicles parked in Broun Place cul de sac are required to have “Disability Placards” to park in the no parking zone? Please report to CCPD, 718-671-3050 or the 45th Precinct if you notice an unmarked car.

Please donate your gently used items using the recycling bins at the front and rear of the garage buildings. The recipient’s name is on the bin. Do not leave clothes on the dumpster pad.

The Police Athletic League and City Harvest are receiving a donation from Broun Place Townhouse Association in lieu of our usual donation to CCPD’s collection.

The drought is not over. There are ways to economize your use of water. For example, match the amount of water to the size of your load of clothes. Monitor flushing the toilet too.

Call the following number to report non-delivery of the Co-op City Times, 1-407-666-8317, Saturdays only, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

An important thought to live by, “Today’s effort is tomorrow’s reward. Let’s make every moment purposeful.” —Sheryl Hatwood Birthday greetings to Dr. Mai Kindaichi, a former cooperator. We urge you to read your Co-op City Times. Have a great week.

—Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle

100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A. Mailing address: PO Box 204, Bronx, NY 10475.

Sunday School for all age groups starts at 10:30 and worship service is from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service will be held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bible Study and prayer meetings 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: 6469313860; Meeting ID: 85748454513; Code: 850684#.

Focus: Protection By Peace

God provides a covering to equip and protect the feet, the gospel of peace to give stability and mobility that allow the believer flexibility to move and advance as God directs. Believers need to have their feet protected.

Ephesians 6:15 states, “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.”

The enemy is aligned against us and their purpose is clearly defined by the scriptures: “The thief cometh not, but to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.” John 10:10

Satan is bent on the complete destruction of every child of God. He will take what he can and what he cannot take he will seek to slaughter; what he cannot kill, he will attempt to ruin to render it unfit for its divine purpose.

Ephesians 6: 10-14, 16-18, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and

in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole amour of God, that he may be able to withstand in the evil day and having done all to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness… Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”

We are absolutely engaged in a battle in which our enemy is more than willing and capable of being the aggressor. The amour of God in general and the gospel of peace provide for our safety against his attacks. Our footing is sure, our foundation will never move or crumble. We are protected; God is our shield, our fortress, our high tower, our bulwark, and our refuge.

“For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; He shall set me upon a rock.” Psalm 27:5

Psalm 91:10, “There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.”

—Rev. R. Sibblies

Building 28 Association

It was a week full of beautiful events, starting with our Building 28 Association meeting on February 18.

Salsa and exercise instructor Juan Portella was present to discuss the salsa class program. Juan’s dance studio provides a variety of dance including African and Tap. Another date will be scheduled and he provided his email: Juanportella@gmail.com.

Josh Blake, Deputy General Manager, explained his responsibilities and listened to shareholder concerns about the Call Center, maintenance fees for supplies, restoration plastering and painting. Mr. Blake explained the painters and plasters should be using the side or back doors, not the front doors. He will follow-up with supervisors to make sure the plaster and painter workers are provided with a key to enter the side door or back door entrance. During the Q & A session, shareholders shared their concerns to be followed up by Mr. Blake, who can be reached at 718-320-3300, ext. 3310.

Frankie Torres, Interim Chief of Public Safety, was accompanied by Sgt. Andre Waring of the Detective Unit. Chief Torres shared information about the shootings in Section 5 and around Co-op City and explained the shootings are related and the investigation between Public Safety and the 45th Pct. is ongoing. Crime in Co-op City includes auto grand larceny, credit card skimmer and scams, as well as theft of mail delivered property. Bike patrol will begin again in June.

Our association vice president position has been filled by nomination and motion. Congratulations to Terry Gavin, who will undoubtedly be a valuable addition to our team. The secretary position remains open, and interested individuals are encouraged to contact us via email at Building28Association@ gmail.com.

The collection of Building Association dues is currently underway. As of January 2025, the annual association dues are $10 per apartment, covering the en-

Church of the New Vision

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

Our scripture verse for 2025 is: 2 Corinthians 2:14 KJV, “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.”

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

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

Wednesday Night Bible Study and prayer will resume February 12. The Conference Line Number is 646-769-9900, Access Code: 3099388# Please mute your phone.

The February 23 and March 2 Worship Service can be viewed on YouTube –Kenneth Hodge Save The Dates:

March 22: Self-Care Women’s Event, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of Christian fellowship and light lunch. Take time to refresh spiritually, mentally and physically. Contact Loretta Scott at 718-671-2623 to RSVP and for more information.

July 6-13: Celebrity Beyond, an eight-day/seven-night-cruise from Miami. Ports of Call: Nassau, Bahamas, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Inside Stateroom, $2656 pp; Ocean View, $2847 pp; Infinite Veranda, $2785 pp. Deposit $500 per stateroom to reserve your room. Final payment due March 9. 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 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

tirety of 2025. These funds enable us to continue providing exceptional decorations, special events and refreshments and other fun events throughout the year.

On Wednesday, February 19, Council Member Kevin C. Riley hosted his 4th Annual Black History Month Luncheon for Living Legends, honoring our seniors. Kevin and his team acknowledged our building treasurer, Brenda D. Brown, whose recognition was well-deserved. It was a privilege to be in attendance, and we are honored to have her on our association. We offer our congratulations to both honorees. We extend our gratitude to Kevin C. Riley and his entire team for organizing such a lovely event, as well as to Bay Plaza.

As we enter a new month, marking the beginning of Women’s History Month, Building 28 Association is pleased to announce that Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson will join us at our next building meeting. It will be an afternoon of coffee, tea and conversation. We encourage you to bring those comments and concerns that you may have about the borough we live in. It will be scheduled for Sunday, March 16, at 4 p.m.

Shareholders of Buildings 28 A, B and C are requested to mark their calendars. We look forward to welcoming Borough President Gibson.

––Idalia Reyes

Church of God’s Children

Saturday/sabbath blessings to you. May the peace of our Lord be with you. We are located at 127 Dreiser Loop, patio level. Bishops Angelo & Nancy Rosario welcome you to join us or any of the houses of worship within the community; be comfortable praising our Lord wherever you are. We are a Word teaching church, come as you are, and enjoy your day with the families that gather here. “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts forms one body, so it is with Christ.” 1 Corinthians 12:12 March is Women’s History Month. This year’s theme is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations.” We invite you to listen to women centered inspirational words. This theme celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership. Through their efforts, they have served as an inspiration for all generations in the past, the present and the future. As we embark on this journey of moving forward together in faith, we often find ourselves asking, “How do we grow our faith?” The Bible provides the perfect blueprint for us. We are called not to stand still but to build on the foundation of faith laid by those before us. This means engaging with scripture, praying earnestly, and surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who encourage us in our walk with Christ. Moving forward in faith is not just about the destination; it’s about continuously growing and learning along the way. Read Romans 10:17.

Sunday Worship in English is at 10 a.m. Worship in Spanish is at 12 p.m. Bible classes in Spanish are at 10:30 a.m. and in English at 12 p.m. Monday morning Bible Studies with Min Steve is at 9:30 a.m. Thursday night Intercessory prayer group by phone is at 7:30 p.m. For information, call 718-790-9120. Visit our Fundraising Ministry shop at 163 Dreiser Loop for a variety of items, fellowship, and prayer with Sis. Inez. Sunday Worship for youth and young adults is at 1 p.m., at 159 Dreiser Loop-Fellowship Hall with Pastor Rebecca Vega.

At your service,

—Bishop Nancy Rosario

Cooperators United St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

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

In-person worship service for the Last Sunday after the Epiphany will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, March 2, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference.

Please do not forget to tune in for the usual teleconference weekday prayers at noon. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509898, followed by the # sign.

Pledge Cards for the new year 2025 are still available. Please collect, complete and return yours to the church as soon as possible. We know you want to help your church, so it is on these cards that you tell us about your areas of interest and expertise.

Upcoming Events and Fundraising Activities:

March 5: Ash Wednesday, Imposition of Ashes and midday service

March 22: Circle of Prayers starting at noon. Please bring your favorite prayer and/or poem to share, as well as your lunch. The church will provide desserts and drinks.

March 29: Our famous Cake Sale at the church starting at 12 p.m. until sold out. Come on down, buy and take home some of our delicious baked goodies.

April 13: Palm Sunday

April 18: Good Friday

April 20: Easter Sunday (Hat Sunday)

May 31: St. Joseph’s Day: potluck, karaoke and raffle drawing. Raffle tickets are $5 for a book of six tickets. First prize, $300; second prize, $150; and the third prize, $75. Tickets are now available from Valrie, phone number 1-347200-5850, and some members of St. Joseph’s.

June 28: Winery Trip to Pindar Vineyards in Long Island, sit-down luncheon at the Cooperage Inn and discount shopping at the Tanger Outlets; $160 per person, $50 hold your seat and the balance of $110 due by June 15, after which there will be no refunds. For more information, please contact Sheila Russell at 718-320-0844 or 718-320-2654.

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

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 celebrating a birthday this month.

We 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

Greetings, fellow Building Association and Townhouse Association presidents.

It has been our intention to bring in our elected officials to give us updates on what they are doing for our community, what they intend to do for our community, and for us to tell them what we need and expect from them.

In January, we had U.S. Congressman George Latimer address the membership. In February, we had Council Member Kevin C. Riley and Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson present their priorities and respond to our concerns about law enforcement resources, traffic enforcement concerns, senior services, etc. We pay taxes for New York City services; we expect them, and we will continue to advocate for what we deserve.

It is our intention to invite New York State Assembly Member Michael Benedetto and our New York State Senator Jamaal Bailey to our April or May meeting.

Cooperators United is not a political organization. We do not advocate for one candidate over another or tell anyone who to vote for. We are ensuring that our members get the information they need to be the best Building/Townhouse Association presidents possible.

Our invited guest for March 31 will be Riverbay General Counsel Jeff Buss, in response to shareholder concerns about subletting, hoarders, anti-social neighbors, dogs, etc. We hope to get a clearer understanding of how Management is managing our money and our resources. As involved shareholders, we need to know what we can do to ensure the success of Co-op City.

Please be reminded that Management is continuing to host webinars on how to file Income Affidavits.

We expect to receive paper Affidavits in the mail soon.

It is tax season. We have JASA and several local elected officials offering tax preparation assistance for seniors.

The 2025 Global African Women's Day Gala is scheduled for Sunday, March 16. Tickets include dinner and entertainment. Please contact me for more information if you intend to attend.

Please be reminded that the organization annual dues for 2025 continue to be $20. Our fiscal year began in January. Please support your organization.

Cooperators United’s goal is to make each member the best possible Association president they can be by providing timely and relevant information that they can take back to their members.

“While we have our eyes on the future, history has its eye on us.”

—Linda Collins

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section – On Saturday, February 22, our Youth Committee celebrated our 24th Annual Black History Celebration! This year, our theme was, “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now.” Dreiser Center was ringing with music and drumbeats, laughter and quizzes! First Vice President Akeisha Neely was Mistress of Ceremony. Sheps Hetep Ancestral Music group helped us begin our program with a drummers’ call to all present and then a libation to our ancestors. Among our young performers were members of the Renaissance Youth Center who meet in Dreiser Center every Saturday. They opened the program with a group dance performance and then a chorus singing, “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout A Thing.” Next, we had three praise dancers from Anointed Vessels, wearing beautiful red costumes. A singer from Bronx Health Sciences High School, whose professional name is, “Bo,” sang “Rehab,” popularized by Amy Winehouse. In between performances, Black History quizzes were thrown out to the audience and prizes were given for the correct answers. A Garvey School first grader recited the poem, “Hey Black Child,” by Countee Cullen. Andy King’s Youth Empowerment Program members performed a spoken word essay about Black inventors. Then the entire audience played a game of Kahoot with their cellphones, answering Black history questions and the winner received a prize. We were pleased that Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark, Congressman George Latimer, and Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson joined us for our celebration. The final lottery prize for the afternoon, two tickets to a Mary J. Blige concert, went to Diandra Grinage from NCNW Manhattan Section. A fabulous afternoon was enjoyed by all.

Today, Saturday, March 1, come join us for a “Candle Making & Sip” in the Dreiser Community Center, Rm. 14, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Doesn’t it sound like fun?

Also, save the date, March 15. We will be having our annual celebration of Women’s History Month, “Women Represent: Regaining Our Power by Moving Forward Together.” This program will take place in the Dreiser Community Center, Rm. 2, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

NCNW National – “Turmoil – Reality Check” is information sent to us from our national headquarters because they understand we need to know information rooted in facts and reality. The Trump Administration put a two-week timeline on schools and universities to end their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices or lose their federal funding. This comes as the president continues his fight against “wokeness.” In addition, the administration continues their cuts to spending, specifically this week, funding for the National Institute of Health (NIH), which could result in $4 billion in cuts to research institutions.

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