Co-op City Times 04/26/25

Fourteen Candidates Certified to Run in 2025 Riverbay Board Election

By ROZAAN BOONE

Marvin Walton Executive General Manager

All 14 shareholders who turned in their qualifying election packages to be candidates in the 2025 Riverbay Board of Directors election were certified by the Election Committee this week.

Among the certified candidates are the five incumbent Board directors whose terms are up this year.

Your willingness to serve the Co-op City community is commendable,” said First Vice President Leah Graham, co-chair of the 2025 Election Committee.

On behalf of Douglas Elliman Property Management, Managing Agent, we are proud to present the community the Board approved/adopted Fiscal Year 25/26 and Fiscal Year 26/27 Comprehensive Operating and Capital Budget for Riverbay Corporation. This process was truly a concerted effort. Management appreciated the opportunity to partner with Shareholders, Board Directors, and the Building & Townhouse Associations to estimate the Comprehensive Operations and Capital Budget for the Corporation. This budget charts the pathway to sustaining this important affordable house stock for generations to come.

Budget Preparation Overview

• Kickoff for Budget planning begin in July 2024.

• Management instituted “Zero-Based Budgeting” concept for estimating budgets for 25 internal departments.

• Finance Department conducted Budget hearing with internal departments.

• Management convened six (6) Budget meetings with Board Directors (September 2024 – January 2025).

• Management held five (5) Capital prioritization meetings with the building & townhouse associations leadership (September 2024).

• Comprehensive Operating & Capital Budget approved/adopted by Board Directors on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. (See page 13.)

• Budget submitted to DHCR on Friday, February 28, 2025.

Budget Summary

In sum, the Comprehensive Operating and Capital Budget (see page 13) is estimated at $315,071,999 for Fiscal Year 25/26 and $324,436,452 Fiscal Year 26/27 and is inclusive of the following two (2) expense categories:

• The Operation 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 will provide direct and indirect services to the shareholders of the Corporation.

• The Capital Budget in the amount of $23,205,199 for Fiscal Year 25/26 and $30,927,579 for Fiscal Year 26/27; funding for the Capital Budget will provide necessary infrastructure (including the Power Plant) repairs throughout the Co-op City community. Riverbay Corporation operations are projected

The 14 official candidates in the 2025 Board election are Ronald Hartridge, Keith Logan, Anika Green-Watson, Darnell Lopez, Tanya Clark-Ingram, Shacara Gibbs, Leah Richardson, Daryl Johnson, Leslie Peterson, Kevin Lambright, Angelo Rosario, Idalia Reyes, Grace Solomon and Sonia Feliciano.

“Congratulations on becoming an official candidate in this year’s Board of Directors elections!

“For information regarding the Election Committee, forums, and campaigning rules, please remember to attend the Candidates’ Orientation on Monday, April 28, 2025. We look forward to seeing you there.”

“It’s an exciting time to be involved with the shaping of our hometown. Let’s come together to celebrate what makes our commUNITY great and support our passionate candidates in this year’s Board of Directors election,” said Board Director Monique Coleman, co-chair of the 2025 Election Committee. “As a shareholder, your vote matters;

E-Scooter Corrals, 2-Year Budget and Resolutions Discussed During April Open Board Meeting

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

The Riverbay Board of Directors held an Open Board Meeting at the Einstein Community Center, on Wednesday, April 23. Before the Board voted on several resolutions and Riverbay Management presented a comprehensive breakdown of Riverbay’s two-year budget, shareholders were able to address the Board and Management during the

Shareholders Participate in Spirited Gallery Session at April 23rd Board Meeting

By ROZAAN BOONE

Gallery Session.

After the Gallery Session was concluded, the meeting was then called to order by Board President Rod Saunders, who started the meeting by addressing the concerns that the Board and other shareholders have about the e-Scooter parking corrals that the city placed throughout the community earlier this month.

The Gallery Session that preceded the Board Business meeting on Wednesday, April 23, held in Rm. 45 at the Einstein Center, was well-attended by shareholders, many who stayed for the entirety of the meeting.

The first Gallery speaker, Ms. Barbara Rose, addressed safety and security in the community, especially activity in Dreiser which, although there has been improvements, Ms. Rose maintains there are lingering concerns such as loitering and group congregation. She also talked about the condition of the commercial stores and cleanliness of the area.

The 2025 Election Committee is pleased to present our "Get Out the Vote Events," designed to promote voter education and increase engagement under this year's theme: “commUNITY.” (See flyer below.)

Specifically addressing a shooting incident that Ms. Rose brought up in her

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2024 Income Affidavit’s Due Wed., April 30, 2025

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

Shareholders are reminded that the deadline to file their 2024 Income Affidavit form is Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Shareholders have two options to file their 2024 Income Affidavits, either by filling out the traditional paper form, which was mailed to all cooperators required to file, or by filing an electronic form which is available on the Riverbay website at https://www.coopcity.com/income-affidavit

As of Friday, April 25, 951 shareholders had registered to electronically file their income affidavits and 619 electronic income affidavits have been successfully submitted.

A fillable pdf of the 2024 Income Affidavit form is also available on the Riverbay website. To access it, visit https:// coopcity.com, click on the “Resources” tab and then select “Finance” from the drop-down

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to have a surplus for each of the two (2) fiscal years. The amount of the surplus for FY25/26 is projected at $9,637,600 and FY26/27, the surplus is projected at $2,185,800. The surpluses are added/absorbed in the Corporate Expense functional expense category in order to yield a balanced budget for the twoyear budget cycle. Use of surplus funds will require approval from the Board Directors.

The budgets were estimated based on the following assumptions:

• No carrying charge increases projected for the two-year budget cycle.

• Grant funds from NYSDHCR and proceeds from mortgage re-financing allocated for capital spending.

• No new initiatives/programs funded for the two-year budget cycle.

• Major investments allocated to Power Plant to address aging equipment.

• Compliance Department was created.

• Surplus revenue projected for both budget years (Y1-$9,637,600 & Y2$2,185,800).

• Six positions/headcounts eliminated from the budget.

Budget Comparative Analysis

The overall estimated Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 25/26 in the amount of $293,851,800 is an increase of 5.2% or $14,582,400 over the budget for the current Fiscal Year 24/25, which is $279,269,400. The overall estimated Operating budget for Fiscal Year 26/27 in the amount of $293,508,700 is an increase of 5.1% or $14,239,300 over the budget for the current Fiscal Year 24/25. The year over year increases is largely due to major investments in the Power Plant to address aging equipment, projected increases in water & sewer costs and an increase in the cost of labor for the Corporation.

Riverbay Corporation consists of 25 departments, of which nine (9) departmental budgets decreased for Fiscal Year 25/26 over the current Fiscal Year 24/25 budget and ten (10) departmental budgets decreased for Fiscal Year 26/27 over the current Fiscal Year 25/26 budget. The reductions were primarily due to less than planned expenses from the current Fiscal Year 24/25 as well as the positive outcomes of implementing the Zero-Based Budgeting concept for estimating departmental budgets for the two-year budget cycle.

Corporation Income

There are two (2) primary sources of Income for the Operations Budget; Carrying Charges and Other Income. A summary of these income sources is as follows:

• Carrying Charges – monthly charges billed to shareholders for maintenance fees.

• Other Income includes all other income received by the Corporation (e.g., garage space rentals, storage room rentals, commercial & professional space leases, fines—community complaints, community center rentals, sales of electric power to ConEdison, etc.)

There are two (2) primary sources of Income for the Capital Budget, Reserves and NYS DHCR funding. A summary of these sources is as follows:

• Dominion/Reserve funds are proceeds (approximately $124 Million) derived from the refinancing of Riverbay’s Mortgage in April 2022.

• Riverbay Corporation was allocated $50.0 Million from the NYS DHCR budget (restricted for Capital projects). Corporation Expenses

Expenses for the Corporation are organized into three (3) functional expense categories, and they are as follows:

• Department Expenses – costs associated with operating 25 departments within the Corporation. These departments provide direct and indirect services to the shareholders.

• Corporate Expenses – costs associated with Corporate-wide expenditures such as Insurance, Real Estate Taxes, Utilities, Water, and other operating expenses.

• Debt Services and Fees – costs associated the mortgage refinancing inclusive of reserves replacements, Mortgage Insurance Premiums and Debt Services.

Please Note: The following section provides a variance analysis comparing Fiscal Year 25/26 and Fiscal Year 26/27 to the prior Fiscal Year 24/25.

Departmental Expense Variance Analysis

Audit Department – (-3.2%) decrease and (-0.9%) decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. No proposed expenditure for the Audit Software in both fiscal years resulting in a decrease in FY2025/26. Automotive Services – 27.2% increase and (-4.4%) decease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27proposed budget. Changes due to increases in payroll and fringe benefits. Increase in lease costs for 25 new vehicles in the Enterprise lease program in FY25/26 but a decrease in lease and maintenance costs in Year 2. Purchase of a garbage truck and backhoe in FY25/26.

Board of Directors – 16.7% increase and 17.8% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Changes are due mainly to increased Board of Directors election costs.

Budget & Finance – 3.5% increase and 4.7% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY 26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to fees for the YARDI Consultant now included in the Finance Budget, support services for the digital income affidavit, printing and filing costs for the tax returns and

increases in legal costs for landlord tenant matters in Year 2.

Building Janitorial Services – 2.7% increase and 5.8% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Increase in purchase of garbage bags ($12,000) and equipment maintenance. Additionally, changes are due to an increase in payroll and fringe benefits, (union increases) and a reduction in overtime.

Call Center – 0.3% increase and 2.8% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to increase in payroll and fringe benefits, (union increases) and overtime during the AC season. Increase in training for call center staff.

Communications (CC Times) – 3.7% increase and 2.8% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Changes are due mainly to increased staffing and increase in distribution costs. There is a decrease in licensing software in Year 2.

Compliance – 0% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY 26/27 proposed budget. The Compliance Department was recently created. Proposed expenditure for one additional staff and other operating expenses in both years.

Construction – 8.4% increase and 9.1% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to increases in payroll and fringe benefits, (union increases) and a reduction in overtime. Increase in funding for roof repairs, tools, construction repair and consultants A&E services.

Cooperator Services Office (CSO) – (-3.3%) decrease and (-0.9%) decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Projected decrease in payroll and fringe benefits.

Corporate Administration Services – (-12.7%) decrease and (-9.1%) decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Overall decreases in all expenditure lines. Projected decrease in payroll and fringe benefits in FY25/26.

Extermination – 21.5% increase and 19.1% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY 26/27 proposed budget. Changes are due to increase in payroll, fringe benefits and overtime because of increased extermination and proactive pest control services. Exterminating supplies are anticipated to increase because of the increase in services. There is no equipment expense

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COMBING

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

Next Coffee with Mike

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto invites shareholders to join him at the Section 5 pizza shop today, Saturday, April 26, 9:30-10:30 a.m., for the next “Coffee with Mike.” This is an opportunity to meet with the Assemblyman and discuss pertinent matters of concern. All are invited.

Gospel Concert

Come out and enjoy a time of worship and praise. The office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson will be hosting their annual Gospel Concert on Saturday, May 3, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Featuring special performances by Pastor Lindsey Williams with “Divine Connection” and Pastor Eric and Brittney Bias. For more information or to RSVP, contact Larcenia Walton at 718-590-3354 or lwalton@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

Co-op

City Annual Community Fair

Calling all vendors! The Coop City Community Fair is on Saturday, June 14, 140 Benchley Place (Greenway). For more information and to reserve your spot, email community@riverbaycorp. com.

Givan Avenue Clean-Up

Volunteer to help clean up Givans Avenue, Saturday, June 21, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. This event is sponsored by Council Member Kevin Riley, ConEdison, NYCH2O and Riverbay Corporation.

Let us know…

If you have news you’d like to share with your neighbors, please call us at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375/6; or email: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

CO - OP CITY TIMES

2ND FRONT PAGE

DOE to Begin Collecting Defaulted Federal Student Loan Payments

By BRANDON ORTIZ

The US Department of Education (DOE) announced the resumption of defaulted federal student loan payments on Monday, April 21.

Officially, payments for defaulted student loans will resume on May 5, just over five years since they were initially paused in 2020 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. DOE’s Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) will handle the collection of payments. All federal student loan borrowers who are in default should look out for an email in the next two weeks from FSA describing the recent changes and urging them to reach out to the Default Resolution Group at myeddebt.ed.gov to make monthly payments, sign up for loan rehabilitation or to enroll in an income-driven repayment plan.

Individuals who fail to repay their defaulted loans are subject to “involuntary collections” via a guaranty agency, as explained by DOE.

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon was critical of previous loan forgiveness decisions when she discussed the reasoning behind resuming defaulted federal student loan payments on April 21. “American taxpayers will no longer be forced to serve as collateral for irresponsible student loan policies…the executive branch does not have the constitutional authority to wipe debt away, nor do the loan balances simply disappear. Hundreds of billions have already been transferred to taxpayers. Going forward, the Department of Education, in conjunction with the Department of Treasury, will shepherd

the student loan program responsibly and according to the law, which means helping borrowers return to repayment— both for the sake of their own financial health and our nation’s economic outlook,” McMahon said.

According to data collected by the FSA, there are over five million federal student loan borrowers who have not made a payment in over a year with a large portion of that group not paying in more than seven years. Another four million borrowers are in late stage delinquency, which means a payment has not been made in three to six months. FSA highlighted that only 38% of borrowers are up-to-date on their loan payments.

There are roughly two million borrowers who “have been unable to even begin repayment because of a processing pause,” FSA also pointed out. “Since August 2024, the Department has not processed applications for enrollment in any repayment plan such as Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, or PAYE. The Department is currently working with its federal student loan servicers and anticipates processing to begin next month,” FSA went on to say.

Going forward, the FSA plans to launch “an enhanced Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) process,” streamlining how borrowers enroll in IDR plans and eliminating the yearly requirement for borrowers to recertify their income. More information on the enhanced IDR process will be available next week, according to FSA.

Federal Government Gives NYC Another Ultimatum

By BRANDON ORTIZ

US Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday, April 21, outlining a new deadline for New York to terminate the Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP).

In Duffy’s latest letter to the Governor, he provided an ultimatum for New York to terminate congestion pricing with a deadline of May 21 to comply. Specifically, USDOT gave New York two choices: certify that toll collection under CBDTP has ended or “demonstrate that the continued collection of tolls does not violate 23 U.S.C. 301.” The specific legislation Duffy’s letter referred to is U.S. Code 301, which mandates that roads built with federal funding must “be free from tolls of any kind.”

Depending on how New York ultimately responds to USDOT’s letter, Duffy outlined two sets of consequences for noncompliance. Should New York continue to keep the CBDTP tolling cameras on past May 28, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) will implement the following initial set of measures until New York complies, as explained in Secretary Duffy’s letter:

- FHWA will pause advanced construction authorizations for projects in Manhattan, except for projects deemed to be essential for safety.

- FHWA will pause National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) approvals for all projects in Manhattan, except for those deemed to be essential for safety.

- FHWA will no longer approve any Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) amendments “concerning New York Metropolitan Transportation Council (NYMTC) TIP modifications.”

If New York continues to keep the congestion pricing tolling cameras on past May 28, Duffy also listed additional consequences that “FHWA may consider:”

- FHWA will no longer be obligated to provide funds for “formula and competitive” projects within New York City, excluding safety projects.

- FHWA will no longer provide advanced construction authorizations for projects across New York City, excluding safety projects.

- FHWA will stop authorizing National Environmental

Policy Act approvals for all projects in New York City. Secretary Duffy outlined the legality behind USDOT’s standpoint from his perspective in the letter. “In November 2024, the Biden Administration signed a Value Pricing Pilot Program (VPPP) agreement that authorized an exception for New York’s Central Business District Tolling Program. On February 19, 2025, I terminated that agreement. New York therefore is not legally permitted to collect tolls on roads within the CBDTP zone that were constructed using Federal-aid highway funds,” Duffy said.

In response to Duffy’s most recent letter, Governor Hochul remained steadfast in her commitment to keeping the tolling cameras active. “Another day, another threatening letter from the Department of Transportation regarding our congestion pricing program. Well, let me repeat this for those who didn’t hear me the first 10 or 11 times. Congestion pricing is legal. It’s working. Business is up. Traffic is down. The cameras are staying on,” the Governor said in an X post on April 21. Notably, the Trump Administration’s legal representation accidentally published a memo online on April 11 detailing their concerns with Secretary Duffy’s and USDOT’s arguments. “It is unlikely that Judge Liman or further courts of review will accept the argument that the CBDTP was not a statutorily authorized ‘value pricing’ pilot under the Value Pricing Pilot Program (‘VPPP’)...we have been unable to identify a compelling legal argument to support this position,” the legal representation for USDOT said. Instead, the memo recommended terminating the CBDTP by “utilizing established OMB procedures for the termination of cooperative agreements.” In response to the accidental memo leak, USDOT removed the attorneys handling the case.

Management Report –––

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in Year 2.

General Management – (-19.0%) decrease and (-18.2%) decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Funding for Community Relations moved out of General Management budget. JASA Funding of $75,000 per year & Board of Directors Election expenses reallocated to the Corporate and Board of Directors budget, respectively.

Grounds – 3.1% increase and 5.3% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Changes due mainly to increases in payroll & fringe benefits (union increases), plus funding for True Green (outside contractor)

Human Resources – 0.04% increase and -1.7% decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Projected decrease in payroll and fringe benefits.

Information Technology Services – (-10.8%) decrease and 2.7% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Software licensing costs were reallocated to the respective user departments. Annual renewal for YARDI was reallocated under the corporate budget.

Maintenance – 6.7% increase and 8.6% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY 26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to general increases in all expenditure lines, notably A/C convector repair, carpentry, locks & hardware, electrical, doors, window repairs and smoke/gas detectors. Increase of $391,500 for the copper silver maintenance in both years. Changes are also due to increases in payroll and fringe benefits, (union increases) and overtime. Department gave up five utility positions.

Parking & Leasing – 1.9% increase and 1.1% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to increases in payroll and fringe benefits, (union increases). Increase in funding for janitorial supplies and bags due to an uptick in activities in the community centers. Increase in electrical supplies because of replacement light bulbs and ongoing lighting projects.

Power Plant – 40.3% and 41.1% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY 26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to increases in payroll and fringe benefits, (union increases) and a reduction in overtime. General increases in most expenditure lines such as boiler repair, pumps, valves, heat exchangers, pipes, instrumentation, cooling tower, compressors, Ric Wil repairs, chemical treatment, and equipment maintenance. Additional funding provided both years for anticipated increases in O&M contracts, plus renovations for the cooling tower/mist eliminators in year 2.

Procurement – 8.9% increase and 9.9% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY 26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to increase in payroll and fringe benefits, (union increases), overtime for end of year procedures, plus BidNet implementation and fees.

Public Safety – (-7.6%) decrease and (-0.5%) decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Projected decrease in Payroll and Fringe benefits due to vacancies in FY25/26.

Residential Sales – (-5.8%) decrease and (-4.1%) decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Projected decrease in Payroll and fringe benefits in both fiscal years over FY24/25 budget.

Restorations – (-14.7%) decrease and (-13.1%) decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Projected decreases in the annual budgets for asbestos related costs, wood & vinyl flooring, tiling and carpentry supplies. Projected increases payroll & fringe benefits (union increases).

Risk Management – (-15.2%) decrease and (-13.3%) decrease over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27. Projected decrease in payroll and fringe benefits.

Safety – 6.0% increase and 8.4% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to increases in payroll & Fringe benefits, environmental remediation (Mold), permits & licenses because of regulatory compliance (FDNY permits), signs. Department also has a reduced budget for asbestos in FY26/27.

Technical Services – 32.3% increase and 34.3% increase over the current year budget to FY25/26 and FY26/27 proposed budget. Changes due to increases in payroll and fringe benefits (union increases). Increases for purchase of cameras, equipment, and equipment maintenance.

Corporate Expense Variance Analysis

• Decrease in Insurance based on property insurance forecast over FY24/25 budget.

• Decrease in Utilities based on forecast for gas prices; gas prices are decreasing and forecasted to keep decreasing.

• Commercial Real Estate Taxes based on assessment by Department of Finance plus a 3% increase in Year 2.

• Water and Sewer Costs increase in budget based on an 8.5% increase and actuals at the end of FY23/24. (This line includes residential as well as meter charges.)

• Other Corporate Operating increased due to some departmental expenses now being reflected under Corporate, plus projected surplus for FY25/26 and FY26/27.

Debt Services, Fees, and Reserves Variance Analysis

• Debt Services, Fees, and Reserves remained relatively flat for FY25/26 and FY26/27.

Capital Projects

To the right is the summary of the Capital Projects Planned in the Community for Fiscal Year 25/26 and FY 26/27:

Riverbay Directors’ Corner

Jason Shand, Director, Internal Audit Department

Hello, my name is Jason Shand and I am the director of Internal Audit for Riverbay Corporation. The Internal Audit department plays an important role in helping Riverbay Corporation run smoothly and efficiently. The department's main function is to independently review the company’s operations, check for any issues, and provide recommendations for improvement. This is executed through a systematic approach that looks at three key elements: Governance, Risk Management, and Internal Controls often referred to as GRC functions.

• Governance refers to the rules, policies, and decision-making processes that help the company operate effectively.

• Risk Management involves identifying, assessing, and managing any potential risks that could harm the company.

• Internal Controls refer to policies and procedures implemented by an organization to provide reasonable assurance that objectives related to operations, reporting, and compliance are achieved.

The Internal Audit team provides oversight and ensures that these functions are working well, thereby helping the company stay on track with its goals. Some activities involve verifying that financial and operational information is accurate and reliable, making sure that the company’s operations are efficient, and safeguarding the organization’s resources from waste, fraud, or abuse. The department also helps the company stay compliant with regulations and ensures an accountability system is in place.

By focusing on these areas, the Internal Audit team contributes to the company’s success in several ways. The team helps improve decision-making by ensuring reliable data, identifying areas where the company can cut costs or work more efficiently, and protect the company’s assets from financial loss by detecting potential problems before they occur and identifying strategies to mitigate risks.

Additionally, the department protects shareholders by making sure the company’s operations comply with Federal/State/City regulations or protocols, thus ensuring the company follows laws and avoids costly mistakes that could hurt the value of shareholders' interest. The team also looks for potential risks and provides insight into opportunities to improve outcomes, identify solutions to problems, and research best practices. By making sure the company is well run, Internal Audit helps to protect shareholders' interest, supports the company’s strategic goals, and works collectively with other stakeholders toward the betterment of Co-op City and Riverbay Corporation.

Department

Capital Project Title

Construction Town House Brick or Concrete Block -Masonry and Technical Pointing

Construction Parking Garages Concrete Repairs & Waterproofing

Construction Concrete Work and Waterproofing - Einstein Shopping Center

Construction High Rise Building Lobby Modernization (Common Area)

Construction Bathroom Upgrades - Einstein Community Center

Construction Sustainability Project - Solar Panel Power Plant Rooftop

Construction Local Law 11 A&E for Brick Façade & Balconies (Highrise Buildings 135)

Elevator Elevator - Bartow Community Center

Elevator Hydraulic passenger elevators 3,000-lb (Up to 4-Story) Dreiser Auditorium

Information Technology Wi-Fi Connectivity In Buildings

Maintenance Town House A-Apartment Doorbells Replacements & Upgrade BApartment Doorbells

Power Plant P83 New Pump/Motor Retrofit

Power Plant T3000 Integration and Improvements

Power Plant Boiler Controls

Power Plant 7X25 Change to Pipe and Wire

Power Plant Boiler 1 Economizer Replacement

Power Plant

Emergency Lighting Pump Room

Power Plant Chiller Controls

Power Plant Building Electrical Transformers - (Owned By Site)

Power Plant Domestic Water Pumps - Residential Buildings

Power Plant Ejector Pump (Basement)

Power Plant Hydronic Pumps - up to 50 HP

Power Plant Mixing Valves

(See

Candidates ––– (Continued from page 1)

voting is your right and your power. This year, the process has changed – all votes must be cast in-person or by absentee ballot by May 31. Every vote counts and together, we can accomplish great things!”

Prior to certification, the candidates’ paperwork was reviewed by the 2025 Election Committee, the Riverbay Legal department and General Counsel Jeff Buss. The committee also confirmed with the Riverbay Finance department that the candidates are in good financial standing.

At the Candidates’ Orientation meeting to be held on Monday, April 28, the qualified candidates will receive instructions for running their campaigns from the co-chairs of the 2025 Election Committee and General Counsel Buss. The candidates will also receive the Co-op City Times editorial guidelines for the three election supplements to be published in three consecutive issues of the newspaper starting on Saturday, May 10; Saturday, May 17; and Saturday, May 24, 2025. The candidates will also be given an opportunity to pose any questions to the Election Committee.

Physical copies of the Co-op City Times can be picked up in the lobby of the high-rise buildings and in the three community centers. The newspaper can also be read online at issuu.com/cctimes, on the Home page of the Riverbay website at coopcity. com, and on X, Threads and Bluesky, @coopcitytimes. You can also use your phone camera to scan to QR code affixed to the newspaper bins in your lobby.

At the April 28th orientation meeting, the names of the certified candidates will be entered into a random drawing to determine the order in which they will appear on a ballot. Names will be automatically rotated on the ballot. This same order will be used for speakers at the three scheduled Candidates’ Forums and in the first Election Supplement published on Saturday, May 10. In the May 17 and May 24th Election Supplements, the order of candidates’ statements will be rotated to give each candidate the chance to be among the first five published in at least one of the three election issues of the newspaper.

The candidates will outline their qualifications for the position of Riverbay Board director and their views on issues facing the community in their statements and ads. In addition, they will each be allotted a free ¼ page ad, although they may purchase additional advertising in the Co-op City Times

All material submitted for publication is reviewed by the Election Committee and General Counsel prior to publication, making it essential for candidates to adhere to the newspaper’s editorial deadline established for the election supplements. Candidates are encouraged to submit their statements and ad

Affidavits ––– (Continued from page 1)

menu.

copy electronically to the Co-op City Times. Submissions can also be hand delivered to the Co-op City Times’ office, Room 21, in the Bartow Center.

Current Board directors who write viewpoints during the election period must also adhere to the 5 p.m. Monday deadline during the election period. Sitting Board directors are allowed one viewpoint in which they endorse candidates in the annual Board election.

The election process is monitored by the 2025 Election Committee to ensure all candidates and their supporters abide by the Election Rules and Regulations and the process is fair to all candidates.

Candidates are reminded that, according to the election rules, illegally posted flyers can be taken down by any candidate, their supporters or Riverbay employees. Election Rule D (2), states: “The posting of all campaign signs, literature and other material (posters, gummed stickers, etc.) in Co-op City is prohibited except on personal property, or within a shareholder’s premises, with the owner’s permission. This specifically includes, but is not limited to, lobbies, elevators, bulletin boards, walls, doors, garages, vehicles, commercial stores located on Riverbay property and common areas. Candidates and their supporters are prohibited form posting campaign material on New York City property if said posting violates any City, State or Federal law.”

Campaign literature can be handed out by candidates and their supporters. They can also be slipped under apartment doors between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. only. All campaign literature used, whether handed out, posted or transmitted/distributed electronically, must include the name, address or post office box of the person or organization issuing the campaign material or sending such email, and, in the case of an organization, the name of the chair or treasurer of that organization.

Election rule D 2(d) states: “Candidates shall not (i) use social media or email anonymously or under an assumed name, (ii) engage in personal attacks on fellow candidates or shareholders, or (iii) make defamatory statements. Any such conduct shall be a violation of these rules and the candidate may be subject to sanction by the Committee.”

Rule D 2(e) also advises candidates and/or their supporters that the use of Robo-calling or similar systems to contact shareholders for campaigning or election-related purposes is prohibited.

Candidates will have an opportunity to debate and discuss issues relevant to the election and their candidacy at three Candidates’ Forums, which will be held in-person and also broadcast on the Riverbay Crawler, channel 12 (MATV) and channel 591 (Altice).

For shareholders opting to file the paper form, the completed income affidavit, along with supporting documents, can be deposited into the carrying charge boxes located in the community centers or emailed to RiverbayFinance@riverbaycorp.com.

Completed income affidavits can also be mailed to the following address: Riverbay Corporation, Finance Department, Attention: 2024 Income Affidavit, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

All paper income affidavits must be notarized

JASA offers notary services on Wednesdays and Thursday, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for more information and to make an appointment.

All insurance documentation must also be submitted along with your annual Income Affidavit by no later than April 30, 2025.

Shareholders filing electronically can also familiarize themselves with the process by watching an instructional “How To” video on the Riverbay website at https://www.coopcity.com/income-affidavit

Shareholders looking for help with filing their income affidavits electronically can also sign up for a help session being offered by Councilman Kevin Riley. This session will be held on Tuesday, April 29, at his Co-op City office at 135 Einstein Loop East, Rm. 44. For more information and to RSVP, visit www.bit.ly/AffidavitAssist25

A Frequently Asked Questions guide is also available at www.coopcity.

2025 Certified Candidates

Riverbay Board of Directors’ Election

1. Ronald Hartridge

2. Keith Logan

3. Anika Green-Watson

4. Darnell Lopez

5. Tanya Clark-Ingram 6. Shacara Gibbs 7.

Leah Richardson 8. Daryl Johnson 9. Leslie Peterson 10. Kevin Lambright 11. Angelo Rosario 12. Idalia Reyes 13. Grace Solomon 14. Sonia Feliciano

In-person voting begins at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28, at the Annual Meeting to be held in the Dreiser Auditorium. Voting will continue in-person on Thursday, May 29; Friday, May 30; and Saturday, May 31. Absentee (Mail-in) ballots must be postmarked by Saturday, May 31, 2025.

The first Candidates’ Forum will be held at the Dreiser Auditorium on Saturday, May 10, at 1 p.m. The second is scheduled to take place in the Einstein Center, Rm. 45, on Wednesday, May 21, at 7 p.m.; and the third and final forum on Tuesday, May 27, in Room 31 of the Bartow Center at 7 p.m.

The Annual Shareholders’ Meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 7 p.m. at the Dreiser Auditorium. In-person voting for five directors of the Riverbay Corporation will commence at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28, at Dreiser Center; and continue on Thursday, May 29; Friday, May 30; and Saturday, May 31, 2025.

This year’s Board election ballot will be mailed by the election vendor on Thursday, May 15, and should begin arriving in Co-op City mailboxes shortly after. Ballots in the 2025 Riverbay Board election must be cast in-person unless an absentee ballot is being submitted in which case, it must be postmarked by May 31, 2025, unless the election is extended.

There will be one vote per unit by shareholders of record as of April 1, 2025. Shareholders are voting to fill five seats on the Riverbay Board.

com/income-affidavit.

For any additional questions/concerns about filing the 2024 Income Affidavit, shareholders can call 718-320-3300.

Questions about the electronic filing process can be sent to incomeaffidavit@riverbaycorp.com and questions about the paper filling process can be sent to RiverbayFinance@riverbaycorp.com. Any questions regarding the insurance documentation should be addressed to the Risk Management department at 718-320-3300, Ext. 3388.

Steps to Upload Insurance Document to Electronic Income Affidavit

1. Click on the “paper clip” icon at the bottom of Section B: Deductions

2. Click “Upload a file” to upload documents

3. Click the attachment link to upload supporting evidence

4. Select the document to be attached, i.e., the declaration page of your homeowner’s insurance policy

5. Click “Done” to complete the file upload

not to third parties. All letters must be

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

by the

and

to be considered for

and

All

in

– • Letters to the Editor • –

not

be

the

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.

Heroic Rescue

To the Editor:

I just read in the CCTimes about the daring water rescue of a Co-op City man by two Public Safety Officers, Malik Warren and Cameron Esty.

What heroes! And how lucky we are to have them working for us in Co-op City! They are examples of the best kind of human being, those who look out for their neighbors and who go “the extra mile” (in this case, a very long one!) to help someone who could have easily died.

Thank you, Officers Warren and Esty (and the whole Public Safety team, as well), for being there for us in Co-op City.

—Katharine Wood

Co-op City Times Photo Submissions

When submitting club articles with pictures to the Co-op City Times, please DO NOT EMBED picture/s in your Word document or your email. Rather, send the picture/s as an attachment along with the Word document for proper print reproduction. The images should be 300 DPI. All submissions must be emailed to: cctimes@riverbaycorp com. Thank you.

Board of Directors’ Meeting - April 23, 2025

First Reading - Resolution #25-16

SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury

SECONDED BY: Andrea Leslie

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING OF: April 23, 2025

WHEREAS, it is essential to maintain high standards of integrity, performance, and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations to ensure the success and reputation of Riverbay Corporation; and

WHEREAS, Riverbay Corporation, as a Mitchell-Lama cooperative housing corporation, is subject to oversight by the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (“DHCR”), and must adhere to the relevant legal requirements and guidelines for engaging contractors; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of Riverbay Corporation has recognized the need to establish clear and consistent procedures for debarment or disqualification of contractors, vendors, and subcontractors from future business with the Corporation in order to promote transparency and accountability; and

WHEREAS, Management has drafted a Contractor Debarment Policy outlining the grounds for debarment

First Reading - Resolution #25-19

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: April 23rd, 2025

WHEREAS, this is a contract request for the upgrade of the T3000 control system including hardware, software and engineering for the primary control system at the Power Plant; and WHEREAS, the control system, is subject to lifecycle limitations, approximately 15–20 years for hardware and 8 years for software and software components; and WHEREAS, the project will provide both obsolescence and functional enhancements and the current con-

and the procedures for disqualifying contractors from performing work for the Corporation, as set forth in the annexed document; and

WHEREAS, the Board has had an opportunity to review and comment upon the proposed Contractor Debarment Policy, and Management has incorporated its comments and concerns; and

WHEREAS, the proposed policy is deemed acceptable by the Board of Directors as it aligns with the goals of ensuring the integrity and success of Riverbay Corporation's projects and operations;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Contractor Debarment Policy, as set forth in the annexed document, is hereby approved and adopted by the Board of Directors of Riverbay Corporation;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Management is authorized to implement the procedures outlined in the Contractor Debarment Policy and take all necessary actions to enforce the policy in accordance with applicable laws and regulations;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution shall take effect immediately, and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to implement the provisions of the Contractor Debarment Policy as adopted.

trol system software is from 2016; 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 #4187 with Siemens Energy for a cost of $496,496.00 plus tax be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and as 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.

(Continued on page 12)

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 34

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 34

120 Elgar Place

Current Lease Expiration Date: July 31, 2025

New 3-Year Expiration Date: July 31, 2028

Co-op City Times

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Danielle Cruz Managing Editor

Brandi Simpson

Junior Associate Editor

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

John Crow

New Media Producer

Sheldon Green

Multi-Media Advertising Manager

Brandon Ortiz Media Assistant

P.M. Campbell

Media Assistant

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

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

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

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

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

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

ESU Water Rescue, A Closer Look

By SGT. JOSEPH VARGAS

April 17th, 2025 at approximately 8:18 a.m., off-duty Co-op City Public Safety Officer, Pardi, made his routine walk along Bartow Avenue onto the Hutchinson River Parkway towards Section 5 when he observed a couple of people standing along the edge overlooking the Hutchinson River, pointing to a man in the frigid, soiled water, who appeared to be disoriented with the water rising to his neck. The officer asked the others if rescue was on the way when he realized they had not yet been called. The off-duty midnight officer immediately called for back-up of on-duty Co-op City officers and made additional calls to NYPD and FDNY in case additional tools were needed.

At 8:20 a.m., Co-op City Public Safety Emergency Service Unit EMT/Peace Officers Warren and Esty were walking through the Bartow Mall making their routine morning rounds when they heard the radio call stating, “Units are needed to respond for a male floating in the Hutchinson River.” ESU Esty later stated, “We get all kinds of calls but it’s not every day you get a call like that.” ESU Warren and Esty jumped in their Emergency Service vehicle and promptly proceed with lights and sirens to the Hutchinson River Parkway Drawbridge. The Emergency rescue officers arrived to the location and were directed to where the man, who was later identified as a resident of Co-op City, was still floating in the water on the other side of fencing and beyond a cliff of steep, jagged rocks and slippery black algae leading into the water. The man did not seem to be able to speak or move but remained in one position, visibly exhausted, with his head just above water.

Officers cut through the gate and without reservation grabbed every tool from the ESU Truck that may be useful, including having the ingenuity to grab an animal rescue pole to reach the gentleman. The officers then began to descend the slippery, muddy, untraversed rocks down towards the river. The officers slid down the cliff on their backs to reach the base where they discovered the ground was a deep mud layer, likened to quicksand, taking hold of their feet and making it almost impossible to move freely. ESU Warren extended a metal pole to the victim calling out, “Grab the pole,” which the man did. Both rescue officers used their strength and the pole to free the gentleman from polluted water and sticking mud underneath. Within seven minutes of being called, the Rescue officers

Public Safety Blotter

April 13, 2025 – April 19, 2025

April 13, 2025

4120 Hutch River Parkway –Officers responded to reports of objects being thrown from a window. After investigating, the offender was identified, and a Community Complaint was issued.

100 Darrow Pl. – Officers responded to a report of loud music. The offending cooperator was issued a Community Complaint for disturbing the neighbors.

99 Einstein Loop – Officers responded to a vehicle accident report.

April 14, 2025

100 Elgar Pl. – While on routine patrol, officers were flagged down for a cat being thrown out the window. The injured cat was rescued and sent to the Center for Animal Care and Control for veterinary attention.

120 DeKruif Pl. – Cooperator reported a package missing from in front of their apartment door.

900 Baychester Ave. – Cooperator reported a package missing from the lobby.

4160 Hutch River Parkway –Officers responded to a call about graffiti on an apartment door.

120 Benchley Pl. – Officers responded to a dispute, both parties were arrested and issued Community Complaints for antisocial behavior.

April 15, 2025

100 Casal Pl. – Officers responded to a harassment complaint.

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

pulled the man out of the water to the cliff base where his body gave out and he fell limp, unconscious in the arms of ESU Esty who held onto him, keeping him from falling back into the river. NYC FDNY Engine 66 Ladder 61 arrived at the scene with a basket stretcher to move the now unconscious individual who had visible injuries to the legs and hip. The rescuers strapped the aided to the basket stretcher and worked together to lift the male and themselves to safety. The entire rescue mission was completed in approximately 11 minutes.

ESU Officers Esty and Warren were transported to New Rochelle Montefiore Hospital to be checked and treated for freezing conditions and minor injuries emanating from the rescue. One officer sustained injuries to the leg and ankle while descending and traversing over the rocks and the other experienced lower back pains. The man was taken to Jacobi Hospital and later that day he was reportedly stabilized due to the combined efforts of Co-op City Public Safety, FDNY and NYPD. ESU Esty stated, “I didn’t even think of the danger or what would happen next, I just moved.” ESU Warren shared his thinking during the experience saying: “When it comes to saving lives, don’t hesitate, you can’t stop to think. I didn’t have time to fear, we just went in to go get him.”

At the very next Roll Call, the officers were commended by Co-op City Public Safety Sergeants, Lieutenants, the Emergency Service Unit Commander Lieutenant Chris Bulat and Interim Chief Frank Torres. The event details were analyzed, and additional equipment has been added to the tools of the unit to address the ever-growing responsibilities of Co-op City Department of Public Safety. After a few days of recovery, these Emergency Service officers will return to the beat, prepared for any rescue that comes. Co-op City Public Safety continues to adhere to the culture of community policing and rescue.

SCAM ALERT: Remember not to divulge personal identification, including date of birth, address, Social Security number, bank accounts, bank or credit cards to anyone who you do not know and trust.

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

4240 Hutch River Parkway –Officers responded to a vehicle accident report.

140 Elgar Pl. – Officers responded to reports of a foul odor. After investigating, a Community Complaint was issued to the offending apartment.

April 16, 2025

140 Asch Loop – Officers responded to a vehicle accident involving a pedestrian.

120 Donizetti Pl. – ESU officers responded to a call for a wellness check. Upon entry into the apartment, the cooperator was located on the floor, rendered medical attention and transported to the hospital for further treatment.

April 17, 2025

2075 Bartow Ave. – Officers responded to a dispute. One male was arrested after assaulting an officer.

2183 Bartow Ave. – ESU officers responded to reports of a male in the water. The male was rescued from the water and transported to the hospital for treatment.

4240 Hutch River Parkway –ESU officers responded to a call for a wellness check. Upon entering the apartment, the cooperator was found deceased of natural causes.

April 18, 2025

100 Benchley Pl. – Officers responded to a dispute. One male was arrested for violating an order of protection.

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.

For employment opportunities, please visit the following sites:

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Director

’

s Viewpoint Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

A Call for Convenience

Two calls, actually. Within days of each other around the end of February, two individuals called me about two seemingly unrelated inconvenient situations.

Caller number one brought one part of the problem to my attention, that the MTA and the DOT – the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the Department of Transportation – had recently joined together and put something new into Co-op City’s parking problem mix.

Tickets were being handed out like hotcakes to drivers obstructing the bus corridor at Section 5’s Killer Curve

So, what’s a bus corridor and how does one obstruct it?

Our roads aren’t wide enough to fit actual bus lanes (the ones painted red) like the one Gun Hill Road has, so instead, rows of diagonal white lines were painted along parts of Co-op City‘s main roads – Co-op City Boulevard and the Hutchinson River Parkway East – and labeled bus corridors

Photographic evidence of bus corridor blocking was automatically being taken by cameras attached to Bx28 and Bx38 buses.

Whenever a bus camera snaps a picture of a car – stopped, standing, parked, or double-parked – on those diagonal white lines and a second bus camera snapshot catches the same car in the same location within five minutes, the AI-controlled system sends the owner a ticket by mail. The bus driver doesn’t take the photos. It’s all done automatically.

ual who’d been having trouble boarding an AccessA-Ride van. Just getting off the curb was an effort but the real challenge was squeezing herself and her walker between two parked cars to reach her ride.

Why does caller number one’s daughter have to risk a hefty fine trying to pick up her mother? Why does it have to be such a struggle for caller number two to get where she needs to go? Because vehicles can’t always get close enough to the curb to safely and conveniently pick up or drop them off at their building entrances.

I talked about all that at last Wednesday’s Open Board meeting held in the Einstein Center.

You missed the Disability and Accommodations Committee PowerPoint presentation? (Gasp!) Here’s the gist. (Sorry, no pictures.)

Access to the Curb.

Deliveries of goods, groceries and take-out soared during COVID and have been increasing ever since. But curb space has not.

More and more delivery trucks and vans, school buses, city buses, for-hire vehicles, Access-A-Ride vehicles, and private cars compete for our curb space.

But Co-op City has none to spare. Too many cars are legally parked on our streets and too many cars illegally park – with no consequences.

Out-of-control double parking – clogging streets all over the city – practically slowed city buses down to a standstill. That led to the overhauled bus system’s special bus lanes and automatic camera enforced ticketing, all based on the need for speed.

three to one in the Bronx.

Co-op City would surely benefit by a reexamination of our street parking rules and regulations, shifting the priority of curb space from private cars to safe and convenient pick-up and drop-off space for our most vulnerable as well as everyone else.

The residents of each of our 10 Chevron buildings (and some of our Triple-Core buildings) could benefit from improved access. Mid-block cut curbs or pedestrian ramp installations could provide that access, hopefully, with the logistical and financial assistance of the Curb Management Action Plan.

Just last October, an enterprising Upper Westside neighborhood became the Smart Curbs pilot project which is currently underway.

Could Co-op City become Smart Curbs Pilot Project #2?

Co-op City needs mid-block cut curbs and loading zones to make everyone’s life easier.

Let’s grab this opportunity to make our sidewalks, streets, and curbs more manageable and more navigable for everyone: for people in wheelchairs or people using walkers or canes or people pushing baby carriages or hauling shopping carts or making deliveries.

Accommodations must be made.

The End.

No. Of course, I couldn’t end there. I just had to holler about the BxM7 northbound drivers’ bad habit of taking the wrong turn, incessantly taking the wrong turn, stubbornly taking the wrong turn and dropping passengers off in the middle of the road with no concern for their convenience. Sheesh! Have a good week, everyone; MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211. 8

The idea of bus-mounted ticket-issuing cameras came about during the reimagining of the city’s bus system around 2018-2019, all to speed up traffic along heavily traveled routes.

Before being implemented in 2021, most of the Bronx Bus Network Design changes planned for Co-op City were contested and rightfully abandoned. Traffic jams on Gun Hill Road or Allerton Avenue or Connor Street or anywhere else outside of our own boundaries were never and are never any of our doing.

Adding our residential roads to the current MTA/ DOT collaborative bus corridor obstructing dragnet is a problem for the car owners who get snagged, fairly or unfairly, but it isn’t THE problem.

THE problem – the one I didn’t realize Co-op City even had until I received call number two last February – has nothing to do with moving or parking violations.

The real problem is all about accessibility.

That second February call was from an individ-

The 2023 NYC DOT Curb Management Action Plan has a different vision. Smart Curbs reprioritize the curb by creating and expanding designated short term loading zones to make passenger pickups and drop-offs easier. Smart Curbs prioritizes people.

“The curb lane is valuable public space that should benefit all New Yorkers, not just those who own cars.”

For the designers of Smart Curbs, it’s a matter of equity, largely based on comparing the income of NYC households with car access to households without Turns out, dollar-wise, that it's a two to one ratio overall and closer to

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

Gallery ––– (Continued from page 1) remarks, Board President Rod Saunders clarified that the incident was completely unrelated to any Riverbay commercial tenant. He also pointed out that it would take a significant investment for Riverbay to renovate the entire Dreiser commercial strip “but we’re doing the best that we can.”

“And by the way, I value your opinion and I value you coming to the mic,” said Board President Saunders. “I’m not sure I agree with everything that you say, but thank you for coming and thank you for expressing your views.”

Board Director Lynette Wright asked if CCPD Interim Chief Frank Torres could speak and specifically address any preparations for the summer, in particular.

Interim Chief Torres pointed out that there are, unfortunately, gangs that are active in the community, and that CCPD and NYPD have been collaborating in answering calls, maintaining visibility in the development and pooling resources in their crime fighting.

“What we’re trying to do right now as the summer months are coming in, we do have a Bike Patrol that will be coming in,” said Interim Chief Torres. “They’ll be trained in the month of June, and hopefully we can get 10 bicycles out there to add to that visibility and quick response time to calls for service. And again, we strive to maintain that quality service that you all so deserve.”

Director Leah Graham asked Management to look into lighting in the Dreiser area where shareholders get off the bus to help deter loitering.

“That one area right there, you turn the corner, if they can look into maybe putting some additional lighting that could help deter some of the activities, because I do notice that in the evening hours, sometimes people do congregate at the walk area,” said Director Graham.

Director Jacqueline Smith, chair of the Board’s Security Committee, reported that the committee has been meeting monthly and addressing all of the concerns that shareholders have expressed with Interim Chief Torres and Riverbay Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith III. She said that in one month, the Committee will finish up its business and a report will be submitted first to the Board for review and input, after which, it will be submitted to Management and also printed in the Co-op City Times.

“I want to say that one of the needs that came out of the discussion with the Security Committee that started from the ground up from the shareholders was Dreiser Loop – that was the first meeting we had in January,” said Director Smith. “A lot of good ideas has come out. I want to thank Mr. Marvin Walton, one of our most important asks that I cannot discuss tonight, he said, okay. We had to finish the budget because if we all want to feel safe, and we all know what we need to be safe, more officers and a few other things, but we had to finish the budget because we have to see what monies were available because people are constantly asking the president, are we gonna have an increase? And we are not, we are not having an increase. So, we had to work within the budget, hopefully, to find some of the answers to Barbara and [what] other shareholders brought up. So, …stay tuned. I know we wish we could go faster, but in real life, change just doesn’t happen like that.”

Shareholder Bruce Gitelson said that when the intercom system was addressed, the decision was made not to put in a mic, or to have a camera in the order, in the lobbies. He said that the other issue he has is that the cameras in the lobbies, and some of the other locations, are relatively small and asked what it would take to change those camera to HD so shareholders can have a larger view of the lobbies to see around the corner or if someone is standing where they shouldn’t be.

“This little circle doesn’t really help, and it takes somebody with really good eyesight which a lot of us don’t have it,” Mr. Gitelson said.

Board President Saunders recalled that Mr. Gitelson had asked this question previously and said he would look into an update. “That’s a reasonable request,” he agreed.

Junius Williams first praised the hiring of Josh Blake as Riverbay Executive General Manager. He also thanked Board President Saunders for the monthly Open Board meetings and said that he hopes the next Board president continues the same format. Next, he said that he has been asked about the No Smoking ban, term limits, and the Riverbay Fund.

“There was so much going back and forth about the Riverbay Fund, so… I think you guys, if you haven’t already, you guys need to settle that before the regime changes because in my experience, the people who were having complaints about it, if they come back and if they get in charge, we won’t be hearing anything else about the Riverbay Fund.”

Board President Saunders thanked Mr. Williams for his comments. He explained that term limits for Board directors was accepted during the 2018 Board election and implemented in 2019. “So therefore, the three-term limit would expire in 2028 and should, for example, a gentleman like me who ran in 2019 – and don’t forget, there was also a skipped year because of Covid – so the terms didn’t quite expire on time, but the bottom line is 2028 would be the next time. That’s everybody, everybody [elected in 2019] would have finished out all of their three-year swings and that would be 2028, you would have to start to get new people. People would not be able to run again. I would be one of them, by the way.”

On the smoking ban, Board President Saunders said he was reminded by First Vice President Leslie Peterson that Riverbay is waiting for HCR’s approval before the No Smoking ban can be implemented.

Shareholder Evelyn Turner also asked about the Riverbay Fund. “How did it just disappear? …The Riverbay Fund is so crucial to this cooperative because it’s a not-for-profit, which means they can do things that the Board can’t do. For example, I’ve seen checks being written over $20,000 to prevent evictions. There are people in Co-op City who can’t pay their rent. If you had the Riverbay Fund, which is a not-for-profit, they could be giving people information. You can’t pay your rent, you’re behind, go here, call this number, because now, the city wants to prevent homelessness. So can somebody explain, how did it get hijacked?”

“In 2021, the majority of the members of the Board voted to privatize the Riverbay Fund and take it away from the intended use which was to be used by the Riverbay Board,” Board President Saunders responded. “It has remained that way until the present. That is likely to change. I don’t want to go further than that. I know I have said that multiple times, but I am telling you now, that is likely to change.”

The next speaker, Ron Campbell, would like to see the convector testing pilot expanded to include more alternatives.

“We currently have one pilot program that is designed to protect the leak in only one convector in an apartment,” said Mr. Campbell. “If you have a six-room apartment, you have five convectors that can flood and create a real problem. It seems as though we should be pursuing something that is more comprehensive. Multiple solutions. …My request to the Board is that you request Management to continue, and I know they are, … but aggressively pursue other solutions and field tests of the solution to not just sort of rest our hat on a one trick pony, if you will, simple resolution.”

Board President Saunders replied that the reason why the one convector solution was chosen as a pilot program only is because statistics show that the leaks that cause the most damage are the ones coming from the living room convectors because of the tendency to spread throughout the entire, or to a larger part of, the apartment than leaks emanating from the bedrooms or kitchen. “So the pilot program was designed merely to find out whether that would help mitigate the amount, not just the amount of flooding, but the cost for replacing the square footage of floors. So that was one issue.”

The second issue, Mr. Saunders, continued, is about drains clogging. “It is my opinion that what

we need is to get a fix on not having the drains clog or to be able to mitigate that at the very beginning of the year, rather than run ourselves crazy trying to push the clogs and the drains down at the beginning of the season than through the season, because you’re correct, it costs us somewhere between $7-$9 million to mitigate the flooding circumstances…”

The Board President also pointed out that there have been suggestions about, for example, putting in alarms that go off once water hits the pan in your living room, however, the problem with that option, he said, is that if the shareholder is not home or on vacation, someone has to get into their apartment, adding, “…flooding affects everyone, including members of the Board of Directors so we’re very, very concerned and we’re going to continue to look, as you said, at multiple ways to deal with that.”

Mr. Campbell impressed the all of the convectors leak and therefore should be addressed not only those in the living room, but the Board President explained that cost to address all convectors is astronomical and unaffordable, pointing out that to replace all 65,000 convectors would cost the corporation more than $135M. Executive General Manager Walton confirmed that the figure is actually north of that; “it is extremely high,” he said.

“So my point is that we need to find a solution that, as you say, addresses 90% of that fixed, but it’s not replacing 65,000 convectors,” Board President Saunders stated.

Board Director Daryl Johnson reported that he sent a possible solution to stop convector leaks to the Board and legal counsel and that he believes the plan could work. He also asked for his proposed solution to be tested.

Director Bernard Cylich also spoke about the work of the Construction/Power Plant and Restoration Committee which he chairs, and expressed hope that the Board will ask Management to test the Committee’s proposed convector option as well.

Director Mary Pearson agreed with Director Cylich and Mr. Campbell that the convector pilot proposal coming out of the Construction Committee should be tested by Management for feasibility.

Shareholder Katherine Wood said that since flyers are sent out all the time to residents, why not consider issuing a flyer asking shareholders to put a tin foil pan under their convectors to help prevent flooding in their apartment and to make residents more aware and possibly fend off convector floodings. She said while this is not a permanent solution, it could be a help while the convector pilot is being tested.

Moving on, Ms. Wood said that there are signs in buildings alerting shareholders not to hold the doors open for anyone. “Impossible!” she said. “We have ADA regulations, and those doors open slowly, and they stay open. So if anyone wants to come in behind you, they can. I don’t think we really have a problem, at least not in our area, thank God. But it’s almost an impossible thing to ask, those doors open slowly and they stay open.”

Ms. Wood suggested, depending on cost, having a camera installed right outside of the building entrance under the portico to view who comes in and out of the buildings in case someone is a suspect in a crime taking place in the building. She said this could also be a way of enforcing the city’s pooper scooper law for cooperators who allow their dogs to go right in front of the buildings and do not clean up, to the dismay of fellow shareholders who may step on what is left behind.

“This would catch people, right there, under the portico,” said Ms. Wood. “There would be a picture of who was doing this stuff. So it might serve two purposes, under every 35 buildings in the portico, they’d have some kind of camera, not just a little camera, but just scanning the whole area so people will see what’s happening.”

“So … this morning, when I opened the back door, I was greeted with exactly what you are

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Gallery ––– (Continued from page 9)

talking about. And it’s not about the camera, I mean, it is about the cameras, it is about trying to move. But it’s about shareholders who want to have comfort pet or pets. They just need to understand that this is not someplace else, this is Co-op City, and we don’t do that. And if you have to have a pet, then clean up behind it,” said Board President Saunders.

“Those people aren’t here,” Ms. Wood interjected. “And they don’t read the Co-op City Times…”

Board President Saunders pointed out that Director Graham is a former chair of the Dog Committee and added that perhaps after the Board election, the Board and General Counsel Jeff Buss can focus on what can and cannot be done about the dog issue because it has gotten out of hand. He also said he would tend to agree with Ms. Wood about the cameras but one of the things he became aware of as Board president when he started signing off on purchase orders and contracts and related contracts, “it is mind blowing how much it costs not for the cameras and the equipment, but for the software technology and what Co-op City has to pay to store that in the Cloud, it’s phenomenal. So maybe as time goes on and it’s down the road and we’ve got a few more coins in the piggy bank, maybe we can begin to expand on cameras. But for right now, we’re doing a great job trying to make sure that we’re within the budget.”

He went on to say that for a long time, Public Safety was short-handed but the department is starting to get back to its fuller complement of officers. “I think that Acting Chief Torres is doing a phenomenal job with our Public Safety department. I think they’re really getting back out into the street,” Mr. Saunders said.

“And that rescue thing, for those who do not read the paper, that rescue thing was really a drama on the front page of the CCTimes. That was amazing what those guys did. They were heroes,” Ms. Wood said.

The final speaker of the evening was shareholder Hattie Overman. She too, thanked the Board for meeting in monthly open sessions. She also praised the use of the Crawler to broadcast important meetings for those who are unable to attend in-person. Ms. Overman then went on to ask Board President Saunders if he has directional signs for the Triple Core building at 100, 120 and 140 Erdman Place on his to-do list?

“I do now,” responded Mr. Saunders.

Proper Disposal of Household Grease

Shareholders, please DO NOT pour or allow grease to go down the drains.

• First, make sure that a strainer is placed over your kitchen sink drain so that materials that should not go down the drain are caught.

• Secondly, used oil and grease should be poured into old cans or bottles with a lid so as to prevent spillage. Place these cans or bottles inside a plastic bag, tie it up and then leave it inside the compactor room on your floor for the porters to collect.

• Please do not place the cans or bottles down the compactor chutes as these heavy items will damage the compactor equipment.

If there are any questions regarding the proper disposal of grease or used cooking oil, please contact your respective Cooperator Services Office (CSO).

Thank you for your cooperation.

“Cause I have been mentioning that we need directional signs for those three buildings there in the back,” said Ms. Overman. “The reason I say that is because the Erdman sign, for some reason, the drivers keep going. They would go straight before they turn right to the address and we have a lot of seniors, we have people who ride the Access-A-Ride, including me, and they have problems locating the address.”

Ms. Overman expressed frustration about why it takes so long to handle such a minor issue.

Board President Saunders said that he does not recall previously being made aware of the issue, to which Ms. Overman clarified that she brought it to Management’s attention since 2018.

“But here’s the good news,” Mr. Saunders said. “Executive General Manager, Mr. Marvin Walton, was not here in 2018; he’s here today, and he makes things happen kind of quickly.”

The Gallery Session was followed by the Board’s Business meeting.

Election Notice to Clubs

We cordially invite all registered Co-op City organizations to our inaugural event, “Co-op City Club Day,” at Dreiser Loop on Friday, May 2. This event presents an exceptional opportunity to foster unity within our community. Each organization will be provided with a table to welcome shareholders, disseminate information about your mission, and encourage new members to join your club.

Furthermore, the Committee will be providing essential details regarding the updated voting requirements for the 2025 Riverbay election. As mandated by the DHCR, shareholders are now required to vote in-person or via absentee ballot for new Board Directors. This represents a change

(Continued from page 1)

from prior years, during which online voting via personal devices was permitted.

Event details are as follows: Club Day will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025

Time: 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Setup at 4:00 p.m.)

Location: Dreiser Auditorium (177 Dreiser Loop)

To confirm your club’s attendance, please RSVP to Riverbay2025election@riverbaycorp.com. Kindly specify the names of those who will be attending, and whether your organization requires more than two chairs at your table.

Should you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Open Board

(Continued from page 1)

Board President Saunders explained that before the corrals had been designated, the Board had sent a letter to the Department of Transportation (DOT) expressing their continued concerns about the e-Scooter program and asking the DOT to not put up the corrals, due to lack of space on the sidewalks and streets. Even after the letter, he explained, the DOT still went ahead and placed the corrals.

The DOT’s intention for the corrals, said Board President Saunders, was to reduce the amount of scooters left lying on the street. But, even after the corrals have been placed in the community and taken up space, scooters are still being left on the street and the sidewalks.

“So, apparently the corral is not the solution to the tremendous amount of e-Scooters that we have laying on our property and around Co-op City, in our streets and places like the bus stops,” said Board President Saunders. “They just proliferate this community and it’s not a good idea.”

Board President Saunders then went on to say that he would like to make a motion for the Board vote on getting the Legal department involved.

“What I would like to do at this point, since apparently the [DOT] is going to go through with this, and they’re going to ignore our request not to put them here,” said Board President Saunders. “I would like to make a motion that the Board vote to have Legal get involved and, if necessary, file an injunction to the [DOT] to stop the proliferation and the building of corrals on our sidewalks and on our properties.”

Board President Saunders then turned the mic over to his fellow Directors for any comments or questions about the motion and DOT’s decision to still place corrals in the community.

Director Mary Pearson was the first to speak and she went on to explain that, before the new corrals were placed in the community, in Section 5 there were already two designated e-Scooter parking spots. However, those spots did not have any clear signage indicating that they were for e-Scooters and even with the new corrals, the original spots have still not received any signage.

Director Pearson also pointed out that the companies in charge of the e-Scooters have still not worked on regulating who can ride these scooters or found a way to ensure that riders are held responsible for scooters that have been parked illegally.

Director Pearson then went on to say that she believes that they should at least try out the corrals for a bit to see if they work and continue talking to the companies to ensure that there is some sort of regulation that will help ensure that scooters are properly placed in the corrals and not left blocking the sidewalks or roads.

“I think it should be given a little bit of a trial,” said Director Pearson. “I think it was despicable that they started putting in these new things as soon as you alerted them that you were unsure of this and did not want them. But I would like to look at both sides of it, because it was looked at as an alternative, energy saving, alternative for young people to be able to use these scooters instead of driving or taking the bus.”

Board President Saunders then commented that more scooters come into Co-op City than go out.

Second Vice President Leah Graham also spoke and reiterated that the concern about the corrals was that they would take up too much space. She cited Board President Saunders, who had explained in a previous Open Board meeting that in order for a corral to be placed on the sidewalk, the sidewalk must be 13 feet or wider, but that Co-op City sidewalks are only 10 feet wide.

“Because of the size, the narrow size of our sidewalks, they would impede people walking by, people in wheelchairs, and I thought that was one of the reasons why, I mean there were other reasons, but for me, I thought that was the main reason why we opted not to have those corrals installed,” said Director Graham.

Director Andrea Leslie spoke next and expressed her agreement that the corrals should not be placed in the community. She also shared that she believes that the young people who are using the scooters seem to view them as a toy as opposed to a mode of transportation.

“The ones I’ve observed actually using it, they don’t seem to be using it as a means of transportation,” said Director Leslie. “And it’s going to create, considering that we’re a NORC community, hazards for us and create blockages on our sidewalk. They’ve been given an opportunity. They’ve been considering it [the e-Scooter program] a test project since they came here, and they have not done right by us. So why should we give them a second chance. They shouldn’t get another opportunity to do the same thing they did before. So, I vote no, and I think Legal should get involved to get them out of here.”

Director Lynette Wright also spoke and explained that Co-op City was not given a choice when it came to the e-Scooter program.

“I understand why the city is doing this, which I know a lot of this is probably based around Metro-North, and trying to find alternative sources,” said Director Wright. “At the same time, it feels like the city is consistently ignoring us. And this has been for years. This is just adding to the list of a variety of things that we said we don’t want, and the city pretty much says, ‘too bad, you have to take it, because everybody deserves it,’ even though we don’t have the population... Data proves that people here do not use them.”

Director Wright also said that the data shows that the average age of the individuals likely to use the scooters is 20-something years old and that the average age of people living in Co-op City is 55.

She then encouraged shareholders to reach out to their local representatives to express their concerns about the e-Scooter program and corral placements.

Director Monique Coleman spoke next and expressed that she believes that the e-Scooter program was a failed experiment and that the entire program

needs to be rolled back.

“My feeling is, just like everyone else, I feel like it’s a failed experiment,” said Director Coleman. “I don’t think there should be an expansion, but I think that we should not just stop at the corrals but have them roll back the program... We need to roll back the program and reduce, or… we should demand tighter management around the companies that are allowing them to fill up our communities.”

First Vice President Leslie Peterson also spoke and pointed out that there are other communities that are also having similar problems with the e-Scooter program and don’t want the scooters in their communities because they’re being left all over the pathways, walkways, and roadways.

She also said that the data shows that ridership in Co-op City has not increased and that the people who do ride the e-scooters typically don’t ride them for more than 50 feet.

“So, it’s not really being used here, it’s not being utilized,” said Director Peterson. “And unfortunately, unlike City Island, who was given the opportunity to say nay to this program, we were not. But, I think that we’re a large enough group, and we’re a forceful enough group that we can get our voices heard, and we should be able to get them to stop the program. More important is that we want those corrals out of the streets, because they were just blocked in the street where cars are turning.

After Director Peterson spoke, Board President Saunders then called for the Board to vote on the motion to have Riverbay’s legal counsel file the necessary documentation to the DOT and have a discussion about what legal action they can take to address the e-scooter program.

After a vote, the motion was passed, with 13 directors voting yes, one director abstaining and one director was absent from the meeting.

Board President Rod Saunders then passed the mic to Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton, who presented a breakdown of Riverbay’s Comprehensive Operating and Capital budget for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 and Fiscal Year 2026/2027. (See full FY 25/26 and FY 26/27 budget breakdown on page 1.)

In January 2025, the Board approved the 2-year budget. For Fiscal Year 2025/2026 the budget is $315,071,999, which includes $293,851,800 for operating expenses and $21,220,199 for capital expenses. The 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.

Mr. Walton went on to explain that a portion of the capital projects will be funded by the $50 million allocated by the state and also by some of the proceeds from Riverbay’s 2022 mortgage refinancing.

“We’re very fortunate this year that we’ve got a $50 million allocation from the state,” said Mr. Walton. “It’s restricted for capital use. And those of you who are aware that we refinanced our mortgage back in 2022, and when we did that, we pulled out $124 million. Again, restricted for specific capital projects. We do not have the luxury of it being fungible and doing what we wish to do. It would be nice, but that’s not the case.”

He also explained that the Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) only has to approve the operating budget.

Continuing his presentation, Mr. Walton explained that for this 2-year budget planning process, Riverbay Management had instituted a zero-based budgeting concept for estimating the budgets of Riverbay departments.

“What that just simply means is instead of starting from the base of what you gave the previous year, we gave them an opportunity to come to us with their budget requests,” said Mr. Walton. “To tell us what does it take really to run your department outside of personnel costs. We were only focusing on those services, the direct and indirect services that we provide to our shareholders… The Finance department conducted budget hearings with the internal departments. And what that means is they had to defend their budgets. They couldn’t ask for $100,000 and, okay, check the box it’s within our constraints. No, we had to demonstrate to the Finance department what you’re going to do with the $100,000 and how it’s going to improve the operations and the direct services that we provide to our shareholders.”

He also said that during the planning process, Management and the Board held six budget meetings. He shared that the Board asked detailed questions about the budget and assured shareholders that they were well represented by the Board of Directors.

Management also held five capital prioritization meetings with building and townhouse associations leaders, as part of their effort to get more community input on what projects they should include in the budget.

“We did true community engagement,” said Mr. Walton. “We got data from you and that data that you provided to us we shared it with the Board, and from there we made our decisions.”

Mr. Walton also reiterated that the proposed budget also does not require an increase in carrying charges to maintain a balanced budget for the next two years. However, Mr. Walton explained that the budget does still have to be reviewed and approved by the DHCR, who will have the final say in whether or not there will be a carrying charge increase.

Moving on with his presentation, Mr. Walton also pointed out that in the budget major investments were allocated to the Power Plant to address the aging equipment.

“It will be a shame if we let this real, real important asset just fall apart,” said

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Second Reading - Resolution #25-12

SUBMITTED BY: Lynette Wright

SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: April 23rd, 2025

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited to sixteen (16) qualified vendors to submit bids for Applicant Screening; and WHEREAS, the Procurement Department received one (1) proposal which was reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Sales Department presently col-

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

DATED: April 23rd, 2025

WHEREAS, New York State Police has requested a lease from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 120 Elgar Place, Bronx, New York, to be used as a radio transmitter site; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is five years and

SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman

SECONDED BY: Leah Graham

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: April 23, 2025

WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Power Plant Property Insurance Policy expires 4/30/25; and WHEREAS, the expiring Power Plant Property Insurance Policy was a shared and multi-layered program with multiple insurance carriers totaling

lects in advance from each applicant a total of $280.33 ($42.41 for credit check, $153.00 for criminal investigation and $84.92 for home visit) which is the same amount paid to the vendor; therefore, the fees paid for the services herein result in no cost to Riverbay Corporation; and

WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends Landlord Guard, 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.

annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for the premises at 120 Elgar Place, Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner, and New York State Police, Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s management is hereby approved as submitted by management in accordance with Resolution #8516 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-

$191,528,876 Total Insured Value (TIV) of coverage for the Power Plant for an annual premium of $1,927,416 including broker fee, TRIA and taxes; and WHEREAS, Douglas Elliman’s (DE) Director of Risk Management evaluated various brokers to compete against the incumbent Power Plant Property broker, USI Insurance Services, Inc. (USI). HUB International Limited (HUB) was recommended by DE to market and solicit a competing Power Plant Property insurance carrier premium

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract #4128 with Landlord Guard Inc. for a two (2) year period, at no cost to Riverbay Corporation 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 #9544 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.

TABLED

19; and be it

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

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

ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

quote. Unfortunately, no insurance carriers were willing to provide HUB with any quotes; and

WHEREAS, the Director of Risk Management, after an extensive marketing program through USI Insurance Services, Inc., Riverbay’s incumbent Power Plant Property Insurance broker, because of a softening market with increased insurance capacity, an improving loss history and a 3.00% increase in TIV ($197,274,742) recommends placing the Power Plant Property Insurance policy in a shared and multi-layered program for an annual premium, including broker fee, TRIA and taxes, not to exceed $1,816,323, a 5.76% decrease, for the policy period 4/30/25 – 4/30/26.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves placing the Power Plant Property Insurance Policy program in the same format and coverage amounts as noted above for an annual premium, including broker fee, TRIA and taxes, not to exceed $1,816,323, based on a $197,274,742 TIV, for the policy period 4/30/25 – 4/30/26.

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

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

NO: Johnson

ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

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Riverbay Corporation Comprehensive Operations & Capital Budget

JASA Celebrates Earth Day

Velocity Track Club

On March 30, Velocity Track Club athlete Madison Taylor was honored at the 10th Annual USA Track and Field New York Awards Banquet and Officials Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, held at the Sonesta White Plains Downtown in White Plains, NY.

Awards were presented in several categories including administrative, lifetime coaching, media contributor, leadership, sportsmanship, good Samaritan, academic scholar, and breakthrough performer. Additional honors included the Humanitarian Award and Lifetime Achievement Award.

Recognition was also given in the disciplines of race walking, long-distance running, youth cross country and youth track and field. Furthermore, four distinguished individuals Dorothy Clinton, Elizabeth Gaynor, Jannie Rosado, and Dick Teetsel were inducted into the sixth class of the USATF New York Officials Hall of Fame.

Madison Taylor received the Good Samaritan Award for her outstanding community service and involvement with KlinicKids.

Watch the video here: tinyurl.com/mr3zya6r.

About the Good Samaritan Award: Candidates for the USATF New York Good Samaritan Award must exhibit selfless compassion through consistent acts of service to others in need, particularly strangers, without any obligation. These individuals demonstrate empathy, altruism, and an unwavering hope for a brighter future for all.

Great job, Madison! We are so proud of you!

––Coach Winston Dinkins

JASA's mental health therapist, Karl Custer, led a tote bag painting workshop for Earth Day on April 22. Seniors listened to his poetry readings and reflected on healthy attitudes toward life as they designed their bags with paint, markers, and stencils.

Left to right. Coach Dinkins, Madison, Mother, Sister and Father.

Caption and photo by P.M. Campbell

SHOP OVER 150 STORES AND RESTAURANTS

adidas • ALDO • American Eagle • Apple

Bath & Body Works • Champs Sports

Charlotte Russe • Chip City • DSW

Foot Locker • Hollister Co. • JCPenney

JD Sports • Journeys • Koi Sushi • Lovisa

Lush • Marshalls • Nike Factory Store

Olive Garden • Pandora • Perfumania

Red Lobster • Sarku Japan • Sunglass Hut

Partial Listing

Kay Jewelers

H&M

Gap

Macy’s

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

Zales

Old Navy

Sephora

Easter Egg Hunt and Tea Party

The Co-op City Mad Hatter Tea Party and Easter Hunt was held last Saturday, April 19, in the Bartow Center, Rm 31. The children enjoyed a fun-filled day of coloring, games, photo shoots, and prizes, as well as a special showing of “Alice in Wonderland.”

Friday, May 9

8:00pm

Yolanda Adams

Shirley Caesar

Dorinda Clark Cole

Karen Clark Sheard

Photos by Tamira King

Building 6 Association

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this, it finds you in good standing. Building 6 shareholders were very busy during the holy day season distributing over 75 Easter goodie baskets in total. On Friday night, President Lassiter, Mrs. Milagros Senior, Mrs.Digna Layne and Mr. McCaster gave out fresh produce consisting of cantaloupe and broccoli to 42 neighbors from Buildings 6, 7, 8 and 10. It is all about community, neighbors, so remember every first and third weekend of the month, fresh produce will be available. Weather permitting, these kind gestures give much needed relief in this economy.

On Easter Sunday, the adopt the neighbor program was in full steam, delivering delicious home-cooked plates of honey glazed root beer ham, sweet potatoes, string bean casserole, Cavatappi and four cheese, broccoli and baked rolls with cups of banana pudding as dessert. Sharing a meal only fosters strong connections, enhances well-being, and provides multiple benefits like improved mental health, reduced stress, and better eating habits. It is a powerful way to nurture social bonds and build relationships, placing the

“unity” back into the community.

As for laundry etiquette, please remove your clothing out of the washer/dryer within 15 minutes after completion and always discard emptied detergent bottles into the correct recycling receptacles. Wipe the dryer lint trap before usage. Also, pick up your used dryer sheets and never place soiled clothes into the baskets, as it is not sanitary and also disrespectful to your neighbors. Never discard raw materials into the garbage chute, instead always rinse out your recyclables and place into clear bags. Take bulk boxes down to the basement. Neighbors, warmer days are coming so that incites rodents and lingering smells. Please curb your dog correctly. No neighbor wants to walk into some dog feces. We all work hard and have earned the right to live in a safe and healthy living environment. Co-op City is a mini oasis of the northeast Bronx, so let us treat it as such. As the saying goes: if you see something, you say something. Let us be proactive on our quality of life and prevent things by getting engaged in our community. It can start as simple as a good morning or have a blessed day. These simple acts only incite respect, kindness and empathy between a civil and considerate society.

As always, I pray for safety over all. Godspeed.

He who wishes to secure the good of others, has already secured his own.

––Lauren K. Lassiter

Goose Island Seniors

Once again, our hearts are saddened by the passing of Ida Edwards, the wife of Stuart Edwards. She was a former member and good friend. Our condolences to her family.

Memorial for Clarese Roberts – Fri., May 2, at Grace Baptist Church, located in Mt. Vernon (52 So. 6th Ave. 10550). Refreshments, 4 p.m. Service, 6 p.m. All welcome.

Hunterdon Hills Playhouse “Swing” – In Hampton, NJ. Thu., May 1. Price: $180, includes luncheon and show. Balance due. Bus arriving Einstein Loop at 8:15 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8:45 a.m.

Goose Island Seniors Indoor Picnic Party – Fri., May 16, 1 p.m. in our club Rm. 39. Members only. Covered dish. Bring something or $20 at door. Members with birthday in May enter for free.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Sat., May 31. Price: $65, bonus: $25 slot play. Call: 646-579-1701.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Tue., Jun. 10. Price: $70; bonus: $25 slot play. Balance due. Bus arriving Einstein Loop at 7:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8:15 a.m.

Resorts Casino – Atlantic City, NJ; Tue., Jul. 15. Price: $70. Bonus: $10 slot play. Balance due Wed., Jun. 25.

Nordic Lodge Seafood Feast and Foxwoods Tanger Outlets – Charlestown, RI; Sat., Aug. 2. Price: $225. Call: 646-579-1701.

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

Holiday Hills Senior Day Picnic – In Prospect, CT; Tue., Aug. 19. Price: $150; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due Wed., Jul. 2.

Portrait of Aretha Franklin Show – Resort World, Monticello, NY; Wed., Sep. 10. Price: $150; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Bonus: $25 slot play. Private buffet lunch in casino. Balance due Wed. Aug. 20.

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

Foxwoods Casino and Tanger Outlet – Thu., Nov. 6, in Mashantucket, CT. No bonus and no meal voucher. Price: $70. Balance due Wed., Oct. 15.

Notary – With Yvonne Menefee, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Bingo – Mon., Wed. and Fri., 1 p. m.-3:30 p. m. Members only. Admission: $5 for three cards, $0.25 each additional card; 12 games and jackpot. Refreshments. Game Day – Tue. and Thu. between 1 p.m.-5 p. m. Dominoes, movies, so-

cializing and more. Members only. Refreshments.

To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of April: Niles Flanders, Guinette Romaine, Octavio Cruz, Dolores Wynn, Isilda Modeste, Alfonso Gonzalez, Ione Foote and Valerie Francis-Williams.

Sick and Shut-in – Mary Roach, 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, located in the Section 5 community center, (718) 379-9613, Stephen cell (347) 847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net; Cash App $StephenCarlSr. Good health to all.

––Stephen Roberts. Sr.

Mr. Walton. “It’s over 50 years old. And there are some hiccups and heartburns that they have. So, we’re working on it.”

He then went on to explain the surplus revenue that is projected for the next two years. For FY 25/26, Management is projecting a surplus revenue of $10 million and for FY 26/27, the projection is for a $2.1 million surplus.

“However, HCR still can come in here and tell you it’s still not enough, we need to do a 2% or 3% increase, so just be mindful of that,” Mr. Walton cautioned.

Mr. Walton then moved on to the operations budget and highlighted the corporation’s income, which is primarily made up of carrying charges along with other income. (See page 13 for the projected income for FY 25/26 and FY 26/27.)

“Other income includes income received by the corporation, which could be garage, space rentals, storage room rentals, commercial and professional, space leases, fines and Community Complaints,” said Mr. Walton. “You’re all doing a phenomenal job paying them [fines/Community Complaints]. We’re almost at a million dollars – unheard of. We only budgeted $145,000. So that means you all are doing bad things, but you’re paying the fine. So, we appreciate that.”

Some income also comes from the money received from the Power Plant, which sells electricity to Con Edison during the high demand months.

“That generates anywhere from one million to almost four million dollars if all of our equipment is working in the given year,” Mr. Walton shared.

Mr. Walton also provided a breakdown of the three functional expense categories, which is comprised of departmental expenses, corporate expenses, and debt service fees and reserves expenses. (See page for 13 for a breakdown of the departmental expenses.)

Mr. Walton also explained that there is an increase in income due to the 8.1% carrying charge increase that DHCR implemented.

“We’re projected to receive $18 million, almost $19 million more than we got last fiscal year,” said Mr. Walton.

Mr. Walton then moved on to the capital budget and explained that for FY 25/26 $21.2 million will be spent on capital expenses and for FY 26/27 $30.9 million will be spent. He then explained that the reason the capital budget for these two fiscal years is higher than the budget for FY 24/25, is because during the last budget cycle, they did not have the money, and the $50 million allocated from the state was not available for them to use.

Closing out his presentation, Mr. Walton shared a breakdown of the planned capital projects, which included façade work on the townhouses, lobby modernizations, Local Law 11 work, concrete and waterproofing work at the Einstein Center and more. (See page 4 for a full list of the capital projects.)

After Mr. Walton finished his presentation, Board President Saunders thanked Management, the Finance department, and the Board for their hard work during the budget planning process. He then moved the meeting along and called for the resolutions to be presented to the Board.

The first resolution of the night was Resolution #25-17, which was presented by Riverbay Risk Management Director John Lowe. This resolution pertained to the Power Plant’s property insurance policy. The policy would be for 12 months, starting April 30, 2025 and ending April 30, 2026, and the policy premium would cost the corporation $1,816,323, a 5.76% decrease from last year.

According to Mr. Lowe, the decrease is due to the Power Plant not having any losses in the past three years and the loss ratio dropping from 661% to 113%.

“They also like that the Board has devoted $30 million over the next two years for major investments allocated to the Power Plant,” Mr. Lowe explained. “So, they want to see that the Power Plant is being modernized and up to snuff.”

After Mr. Lowe presented Resolution #25-17, the Board was called to vote, and it was passed. Thirteen directors voted yes, one director voted no, and one director was absent.

The next resolution was Resolution #25-15, which pertained to the renewal of a lease agreement with the New York State Police for the use of 120 Elgar Place. The lease renewal would be for five years and would allow the state police to continue using the location as a radio transmitter site that monitors the highway for accidents and traffic.

After a vote, the resolution was passed, with all 14 Directors voting yes.

Board Director Saunders then made a motion to table Resolution #25-12. After a vote, the resolution was tabled.

The Board then moved on to the first readings.

The last presentation of the night was by the Disability and Accommodations Committee chairperson, Director Mary Pearson, who presented her committee report.

The main topic of this committee report was about the lack of access to the curb and the impact it has on individuals who need access to a curb in order to get into and out of vehicles.

“Deliveries of goods, groceries, a takeout soared during Covid and it never stopped,” Director Pearson began. “Our curb space is limited. There are more delivery trucks, vans, school buses, city buses, For-Hire vehicles, Access-A-Ride vehicles and private cars. They all compete for our curb space. But Co-op City has none to spare. Too many cars are illegally parked on our streets and too many cars are illegally parked with no consequence.”

Director Pearson also showed photos of cars illegally parked and double parked along Co-op City streets, blocking access to the curb.

Director Pearson then brought up the MTA’s Automated Camera Enforcement Program (ACE), which equipped buses with cameras in order to fine drivers that are caught blocking or obstructing a bus lane. The ACE program uses cameras mounted onto MTA buses to capture the license plate numbers of cars that are stopped, parked, or double-parked in bus routes and bus stops.

“The bus automatically takes a picture and you automatically get sent a ticket,” said Director Pearson. “The first one will cost $50. If you do it again, it’ll cost $250.”

The program, which was expanded in September of 2024, is enforced along 34 bus routes throughout the five boroughs and 1,000 buses are equipped with cameras. In Co-op City the BX-12 SBS, BX28 and BX38 are all equipped with these cameras.

She pointed out that due to the already limited access to the curb due to cars parked illegally, this has made it even more difficult for shareholders that need the car they are in to get to close to a curb in order to get out safely.

“Our car problem has led to something much worse than the inconvenience of getting a ticket, it’s led to unsafe pick-up and drop-off of actual people,” said Director Pearson. “Our drivers need to get close enough to the curb to be able to make access to an Access-A-Ride, or to a door when you’re getting into the car. You have to get close enough to the curb so that nobody gets a ticket and everybody is safe.”

She also went on to say that they need to find a way to create a space that will allow people who are walking, using walking aids, or wheelchairs to get onto the curb and into their buildings safely.

She also advocated for Co-op City to invest in creating more cut curbs and pedestrian ramps on the sidewalks, in order to allow for safer access to the curb and hopefully deter cars from parking there.

“Co-op City needs fewer cars parking and double parking on our streets and more conveniently placed cut curbs with designated short-term curb space for people in wheelchairs, for people using walkers or canes, or people pushing baby carriages or holding shopping carts from making deliveries.”

After the committee presentation, Board President Saunders applauded Mary for her presentation and thanked the committee for their continued work.

Director Leah Graham then spoke and commended Mary for her presentation and asked if the Committee has been working with the city to make the cut curbs happen.

Director Pearson explained that the DOT does have a Curb Management Action Plan that went into effect back in 2023, that was geared towards making the streets more people friendly and creating cut curbs. She said that once they finish up the work they are doing in the city, the committee is hopeful that Co-op City will be next on the list.

Director Jacqueline Smith also spoke and asked if the Board could also put it on their agenda to think about putting up disability signs in designated areas, as a way to create safe access to the curb.

Director Lynette Wright also asked if the committee has met with the 45th Precinct and CCPD to discuss these concerns and see if they could send officers out to ticket people who are illegally parked.

Director Pearson responded and said that she spoke to an officer today who told her that they hand out about 400 parking tickets a month, though she believed that they could probably hand out that many tickets a day.

African-American Association of Co-op City

Open Call for Open Mic: Singers, comedians, dancers, poets, novelists, and painters? Or jacks-of-all these trades? If you are an artist of any kind, this platform (this mic) is for you! Come and have some fun and hone your talents. Adults only please and language must be kept respectable. Sign up on time before the lists close.

Time to register your child for the 12th Annual Co-op City Spelling Bee! Volunteers are needed.

Registration is simple: Call 718.671.5957 or email Franreva@aol.com. All attendees must wear masks and practice social distancing. Do not wait, register to participate and volunteer now.

Coming Events!

Saturday, May 3: Open Mic/Fundraiser, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15.

Saturday, May 17: 12th Annual Co-op City Spelling Bee, 1 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 4.

Sunday, May 18: General Meeting, 3 p.m., on Zoom.

Saturday, June 7: Visit our table at the Co-op City Fair, 12 p.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday, June 8: Pre-Juneteenth Celebration, 3 p.m.; AAACC Elections, Dreiser, Rm. 15.

Sunday, August 17: Marcus Garvey Drum Circle Celebration, Section 1 Greenway or Dreiser, Rm. 15 (in case of rain).

Saturday, September 6: Visit us at the Co-op City Fair, 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, September 13: Open Mic Fundraiser, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15.

Sunday, September 21: General Meeting, 3 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15.

Saturday, October 11: Open Mic Fundraiser, 4 p.m.-8 p.m.

Sunday, October 19: General Meeting, 3 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15.

Sunday, November 16: General Meeting, 3 p.m. on Zoom.

Saturday, December 6: Open Mic Fundraiser, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15.

Saturday, December 20: Pre-Kwanzaa Event, 3 p.m., Bartow, Rm. 31.

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

AAACC Programs

Belly Dance Classes: Contact Xonia Wilson at 646-301-9438. Evening Line Dance Classes: Contact Cynthia Dixon at 917-903-7073. Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers:” Contact Joyce Smith at 718-320-0714. —Michelle Marbury

Broun Place Townhouse Association

First, Broun Place acknowledges and sends sincere condolences to everyone connected to Pope Francis. Broun Place readers follow the current events and understand the importance of this very important life-changing event. Again, our heartfelt sympathy to everyone connected to this Pope.

On Monday, April 21, Bronx Borough President Venessa L. Gibson held an afternoon reception to share and update her activities for the Bronx. Guests were association presidents and those working closely with association presidents. Borough President Gibson spoke on a myriad of local issues and congratulated association presidents on their accomplishments and leadership.

Income Affidavit season and Riverbay Board election season are upon us. As the deliverer of all things that need explaining and teaching, our community teacher, the Co-op City Times, is always carrying the responsibility of delivering the information we need to fulfill our responsibility and get these two cooperator responsibilities done correctly. The income affidavit is a requirement. Study the ways and means. Use the tools offered. Regarding the annual Board election, save the corporation money, study the candidates and vote.

There are many events, meetings and organizational activities announced in the Co-op City Times; read carefully and participate. Make sure you read this week’s column on the Riverbay Corporation department director who is highlighted.

Neighbor Thea Lowe (Colombo) remains in a local rehabilitation facility as she recovers from injuries incurred from a fall. Her condition is improving and hopefully she will be discharged soon. Currently, she is receiving physical therapy daily. She appreciates the phone calls and cards.

April winds emphasize the necessity of securing terrace belongings. Our umbrella took flight because it wasn’t screwed tight enough. Secure balcony items tightly.

Our Broun Place Townhouse Association accepts new members any time. The membership fee is $12 a year. Dues go to supplies and support of emergency efforts, for example, in case a neighbor or family member dies.

Vehicles parked in the Broun Place cul de sac are required to have “Disability Placards” to park there. Please report to our CCPD, 718-671-3050, or the 45th Precinct, if you notice a car without a sign. Tickets are being issued to those without placards.

Who is responsible for cleaning the Stillwell Avenue and DeReimer Avenue local streets? Attention has to be paid to this area. It is being used like a dump.

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. Read the information about our Board of Directors’ election.

Call the following number on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., to report on the non-delivery of the Co-op City Times, 1-407-666-8317. We urge you to read your Co-op City Times.

—Eva Kindaichi Lazaar

Building 29 Association

On April 9, Building 29 held its monthly meeting. Although no speaker was planned, this turned out to be a most lively and productive meeting.

Michael, our president, had created an agenda as follows:

1) Our purpose – Information, awareness and community

2) Open vacancy – Cynthia Dixon has stepped down as our first vice president, and we are looking for her replacement. Any resident of Building 29 is eligible, and any nominations would be welcomed. Elections will be held in September after our summer break.

3) Movie Night – We would like to introduce this (including movies for children). Suggestions are welcome.

4) Bingo Night – All agreed this is a community favorite.

5) Karaoke Night – A great possibility to get some young people involved.

6) A neighborhood walk – To be planned for good weather.

7) Ideas for other activities requested, as well as options for occasional Saturday meetings.

Again, suggestions appreciated.

Finally, please encourage your friends and neighbors to attend the meetings.

A few other notes: Sheets with contact numbers for various Riverbay departments (e.g. Call Center, Emergency, Garage) will be posted on the walls of our association room.

“House of Reckoning” will be the Book Club's next read for May 30.

Carol Arthur, president of Section 5 Association, will be the featured speaker on May 14.

Finally, many thanks to Carol Arthur and Deputy General Manager Joshua Blake for our wonderful new sink and cabinets! Much needed and much appreciated! Blessings to all, stay well and safe.

––Katharine

Wood

Section 5 Association

Section 5 Association – On April 17, our president, Ms. Carol Arthur informed the membership, that Wicked Wednesdays have been canceled due to low attendance in Section 5. We had guest speaker Councilman Riley and he expounded on the land across from Home Depot, the city was proposing to build a senior housing development, which he opposes as it will impact Co-op City. Councilman Riley is still working on the indoor youth program and the Beacon program. Ms. Shekera Anessa Algarin also stopped by. We must be involved.

Section 5 Association Bake Sale – On behalf of the Section 5 Association president, Ms. Carol Arthur, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated confectionery goods. A special thanks goes to my Section 5 building presidents and their executive boards, your dedication and willingness to volunteer your time played a vital role in making this event both prosperous and smooth. The strength, unity and spirit you all displayed reassured me that the best is yet to come. It was a summer-like day; our Congressman George Laitmer and wife visited, his District Deputy Director Tremaino O’Garro, as well as a few Riverbay Board members and many more who made the Bake Sale a joyous occasion, again thank you one and all.

Income Affidavit – Do not forget a copy of your apartment insurance, declaration and copy of 2024 tax return. Councilman Kevin Riley’s office team is also here to help with doing annual Income Affidavit online only on April 29. You must make an appointment at www.bit.ly/AffidavitAssist25. Questions, comments or concerns, contact the office at 718684-5509.

Notary Only: Free on April 28, RSVP at www.bit.ly/cccNotary. Questions, call 718-684-5509. This is for the paper form income affidavits.

Enhanced NYS ID – As of May 7, every air traveler 18 and older will need a Real ID or a Real ID Compliant Document such as an Enhanced License or a US Passport to fly within the US. The JASA Bartow (OAC) Older Adults Center will be providing trips to the DMV and assisting with scheduling process to upgrade your State ID. Call 929-399-1371.

SCRIE/DRIE – If you know someone who needs help with SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption), DRIE (Disability Rent increase Exemption), or other assistance, they can call JASA Bartow at 718-320-2066 during business hours Monday-Friday, 9-5 p.m. No walk-ins are allowed at JASA nor Bartow Centers.

Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. If you have knowledge of a neighbor who 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

––H. Overman

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

Bartow OAC April Shopping Trips – All trips are $6, with the exception of Walmart/Wegmans, which are $12.

Tax Preparation for Seniors 60 & Up – will be in the JASA NORC office, 2049 Bartow Ave., for people filing late; Mon., April 21 & 28, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Income Limit: up to $60,000. Call 718320-2066 for an appointment.

Bartow OAC 8 Weeks’ program: “Write Your Own Story,” creative Writing class w/artist & playwright Linda Manning, Thurs., 1-3 p.m., starting May 1.

Bartow OAC Apple Picking trip to OCHS Apple Orchard, Aug. 28; $45, includes lunch.

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

NORC Visual Arts Painting Class (Only), 10:30 a.m.12 p.m., Rm. 31, every Mon. until May 5

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

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

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

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

Common Pantry, Tue., April 22, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

NORC Office Only: New Zumba class in the JASA NORC Office every Tues., at 11 a.m., until June 10

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

Norc Office Only: Acupuncture 2049 Bartow Avenue w/ Dr. Flora Luyando, Wed., May 14 & June 4, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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.

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.

Su Casa – Programming is back at Dreiser OAC. Please join us every Wednesday at 1 p.m. until June 25, for a Caribbean & Dance workshop in Rm. 2.

Dreiser OAC – Spirit of New York “White Party” Cruise on Wed., July 16. Tickets are $140 and can be made in three installments in Rm. 7 only. P/u’s are available at all three centers.

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

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

Mindful Mornings Tai Chi

9 a.m.-10 a.m.

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 p.m.-3 p.m. (Appt. Only)

Movies w/ Dennis: “Emilia Perez” or “The Sustance” 1-3 p.m.

Spanish, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 35

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

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

Stretch & Tone w/Ola

10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Bodies in Motion w/Ola 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Tech with KJ, 1-2 p.m.

Board Games, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Trip: Walmart (Monroe, NY), 9:30 a.m.-2 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.

Su Casa Art w/ Tijay, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Blood Pressure Screening

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

Health & Wellness 2.0: Self Harm & How to Protect Ourselves, 11 a.m.12 p.m.

Let’s Get It On Zumba 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989. 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., Rm. 7. Call 718-320-1345 for an appointment.

Please call Einstein OAC for: Hair Styling, 1st & 3rd Wed. of the month, 9 -11 a.m.: Braids, Haircuts, Shape-Up, Twist, Pony Tails, Curls and more.

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

Woodbury Commons, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Weekend Recap Discussion

9 a.m.-10a.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 Leisure TV, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

Current Events,10-11 a.m., Rm. 7

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. A Tai Chi w/Jimmy, 2-3 p.m., Aud. A Computer & Tablet class w/ Ralph (Virtual), 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Walmart (Monroe), 9-4 p.m.

Leisure TV, 9 a.m.-10 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Bead & Jewelry w/ Brenda 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Lunch/March Birthday Celebration, 12 p.m.-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Technology Class w/ Steve, 1:15- 2:15 p.m. Drama Club, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Rm.4

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

Manicure Services, 10 a.m.11:30 a.m. (Twice a month)

Cardio Exercise w/Gail, 11 a.m.12 p.m., Aud. A Body in Motion w/Ola, 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Aud. A HIICAP Medicare Consultant w/ Dr. Gil, Rm. 4

Leisure TV, 2-4 p.m.

Macy’s Flower Show (Herald Sq.),10 a.m.-2 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 Dreiser OAC Advisory Board Meeting, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Bingo, 1 p.m.-2:50 p.m., Rm. 2

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

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

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

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

LUNCH: KOSHER: Rustic Moroccan Chick Pea & Swiss Chard Stew Brown Rice, Spiced Mixed,Vegetables; NON KOSHER: Brown Stew Chicken, Yellow Rice Cooked Cabbage w/ Shredded Carrots

NO DINNER SERVED

LUNCH: KOSHER: Baked Turkey Meatballs, Pearled Barley, Normandy Blend; NON-KOSHER: Pork Spare Ribs, Mashed Potatoes, Sauteed Green Beans w/Onions

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Moroccan Salmon, Rice w/ Vegetable, Tossed Salad, Banana; NONKOSHER: Beef Salisbury Steak in Mushroom Sauce, Cilantro Lime Rice, California Blend Vegetable, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: Fish w/Fresh Salsa Relish, Mixed Confetti Rice, Steamed Yellow Squash; NON-KOSHER: Smokey Black Bean & Sweet, Potato Chili Brown Rice, Steamed Green Beans

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Fish w/Fresh Salsa Relish, Mexican Confetti Rice, Sauteed Zucchini, Canned Apricot ; NON-KOSHER: BBQ Pork Spare Ribs, Instant Mashed Potato, Sauteed Green Beans w/ Onions, Orange

LUNCH: KOSHER: Beef Stew, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Prince Edward Blend Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Beef Meatballs w/Sofrito, Pasta, Baby Carrots w/ Parsley

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: NON-KOSHER:

KOSHER: Beef Stew, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Gren Bean Salad, Orange; NON KOSHER: Smoke Black Bean & Sweet Potato Chili Brown Rice, Steamed Green Beans

LUNCH: KOSHER: BBQ Chicken Leg Quarter, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Capri Blend Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Chicken Breast & Rice, Steamed Broccoli

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: NON-KOSHER:

KOSHER: BBQ Chicken, Roasted Potatoes, Beet Salad, Canned Pineapple (10 Grab & Go); NON-KOSHER: Beef Meatballs w/ So Frito, Pasta, Baby Carrots & Parsley, Banana

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

KOSHER: Tuna Fish Salad, Tex-Mex Barley, Bean & Corn Salad, Cole Slaw, Banana; NON-KOSHER: Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken w/Rice), Steamed Broccoli, Orange

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

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

Building 10 Association Dues – The collection of building association dues for 2025 has begun. Building association dues are $10 per apartment. We will be collecting dues in the association room (rear of Building 10B) on April 30, May 7 and May 21 from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. You can also bring your dues to the building association meeting or give to any executive board member. Please note the money collected is used for association-related expenses, i.e. flyers, meeting and party supplies, refreshments, etc.

Summer Fun Day T-Shirt – Pre-order your Summer Fun Day T-Shirt from 5 p.m.-7 p.m., on April 30, May 7 and May 21, in the Building 10 Association Room located in the rear of Building 10B.Youth t-shirts, XS-XL will cost $15; adult t-shirts, S-3XL will cost $20; and adult sizes, 4X and 5X will cost $22. Payment is due at time of order. Please see the flyer in the lobby for more information.

Section 2 Summer Fun Day – Save the date! The Section 2 Summer Fun Day will be held on Saturday, June 21. Rain date: Sunday, June 22. More details to follow.

Tip of the Week – Cigarettes/Cigars – Please refrain from throwing cigarettes / cigars off the terrace or out of windows as this can cause a fire.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call CCPD 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. “Only you can change your life. No one can do it for you.”

Have a great week.

—Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors; unusual windy days. Spring is here and the trees are blooming everywhere. Please wear your mask if needed. We trust all had a wonderful and happy Easter.

Reminder – The Building Association meeting will be May 29 and we will have two guest speakers, Diane Cooper and CSO Nicole Marchand.

Income Affidavits – Deadline to submit your Income Affidavit is May 30. Riverbay Finance department will offer three sessions to assist shareholders with the paper form affidavits. Notaries will be available. Please check the Co-op City Times for the place and dates of the sessions. Also help will be available at Councilman Riley’s office on April 29 at 135 Einstein, Rm. 44; you must RSVP. You also can call 718-684-5509.

Gas Detector – If you have repairs in your apartment, Riverbay will also seize the opportunity to install the gas detector in your apartment also.

Committees – Building 27 Association is in need of a treasurer and entertainment members. If you are interested, please contact Aaron Carnegie, president of the Building 27 Association, at 917-561-7121.

Laundry Room – When we clean the lint from the dryer screen, please empty the lint and the dryer sheets in the garbage containers and not on our clean floors. We are blessed to have a laundry room, so let us be clean and appreciate it.

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

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

––H. Overman

Proper Disposal of Raw Garbage

Shareholders are reminded that raw garbage, such as kitchen scraps, must be placed in a bag and secured before being disposed of down the chute in the compactor room on your floor.

Raw garbage must not be thrown unbagged down the chute. That is unsanitary and attracts vermin.

Those who violate this rule could receive a Community Complaint, if identified.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work together to maintain the quality of life of shareholders.

—Riverbay Management

Building 13 Association

Building 13 wishes all a greener and healthier Earth.

Earth Day at Rivers Run Community Garden: The theme for this year is, “Our Power, Our Planet.” This theme encourages people to unite behind renewable energy and push for a tripling of global renewable energy generation by 2030. Rivers Run Community Garden will be celebrating Earth Day on April 26 from 12 p.m.-4 p.m. in the garden. Agatha House will be giving away food and there will lots of events taking place. There will be music and lots of fun, free crafts and festive activities going on. Do not miss this fun-filled day. Come and meet your fellow shareholders. The garden is a fantastic place to soothe your mind, sit in the gazebo and be at peace with the earth. If the gates are open, do drop in, all are welcome.

Building Collection: Our vice president, Wendell Mattison, may include a date for the collection of dues and the purchase of Summer Fun Day shirts. Check the bulletin board for updates. During this time, you could purchase your Summer Fun Day shirt. Shirts will not be on sale the day of the event. Please check the notice that will be posted in the bulletin board. Get your shirt: adults are $20 (4x and above $22), youth are $15. Additional dates may be added.

Save the Date: Our Section 2 Summer Fun Day will be on Saturday, June 21 (Buildings 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, Cooper Place and Debs Place townhouses). Shirts for the event will be going on sale in April, so look for the flyer on your bulletin board and in Co-op City Times articles. There will be free shirts to the first 50 youth. Music, free goodies and of course name that tune. By the way, get your boots on the ground, as ours will be! We have our fans! Practice makes perfect!

Funding for SFD was made possible by Councilman Kevin Riley, NYC Department of Youth & Community Development, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Attorney Stephen B. Kaufman PC, the Co-op City Tire Co., Bob Cares Charitable Organization, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home, Riverbay Corporation, CCPD, NYPD and FDNY.

Consideration Corner:

• Please refrain from letting your dog relieve itself under the portico.

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

• Please scoop the poop when walking your dog.

“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: Building 13 president at 718-320-1370 or Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.

––Wendell Mattison

Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 Association family and friends. Spring has sprung!

The Bronx borough president held a meet & greet event for Building Association presidents in Dreiser Auditorium on Monday, April 21. All Building Association presidents were presented with certificates of appreciation.

2024 Income Affidavits will be notarized in the association room on Thursday, May 1, in the association room from 4-8 p.m.

Our last Building 9 Association general membership meeting was scheduled for Thursday, April 24, at 7 p.m. Our guest speaker was Toma Kastrati, deputy director of the Riverbay Maintenance department. Please come and bring your questions and/or concerns. Our annual membership drive is underway. Our yearly membership dues remain at $10 per family. We will be in the lobbies every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evening. Our sincere appreciation to all who have been generous enough to join the Building 9 Association membership.

Thursday, May 29, will be our 2025 Volunteer Recognition event. Please join us to celebrate our volunteers. Riverbay Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith III will be our guest speaker.

We continue to plan a Card Night and a Movie Night for June. Please share your ideas for other building association events with us.

Please do not leave pizza boxes on the compactor room shelf. The scent of grease attracts roaches and mice. Push your trash down the compactor chute. Please do not remove laundry carts from the laundry room. Promptly remove your laundry from the machines so that others will be able to get their laundry done too.

Please do not litter in our public spaces.

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

—Linda Collins

NAACP

The NAACP marches to defend democracy and combat racism and discrimination in communities across the country. Located in the Einstein community center, Rm. 36, we meet the fourth Sunday of the month at 3:00 p.m. The NAACP Co-op City Branch Office hours are: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays.

NAACP April General Meeting: Join us on April 27 when we welcome Shekera Algarin Esq. who will discuss the importance of “Knowing Your Rights.” We will also discuss the 22nd constitutional amendment and question, “can a President run for a third term?” There is talk of loopholes in the law. We will discuss some of those possibilities. The meeting is open to all.

Civic Engagement Workshop: The Civic Engagement Chair Felix Omozusi will be hosting a workshop, “Understanding How the Police Enforces the Law,” facilitated the 45th Precinct Community Affairs on April 29 at 7:00 p.m. Bring a neighbor and save your seat. RSVP by phone or email.

“Calling All Men:” Our Health Committee Chair Joyce Dixon, RN, has been successful in obtaining a facilitator to meet with the community in person. It is scheduled to be held Saturday, June 7, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dreiser Center in Auditorium C. This could save your life. RSVP information and flyer posting coming soon.

Care Without Barriers (Student Led) – Youth group to be held at Einstein Loop Community Center on Saturday, May 31, in Rm. 36 from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. This non-profit is dedicated to education, prevention and community support, offering educational workshops, counseling resources, school outreach pro-

Cooperators United

Greetings, fellow Building Association and Townhouse Association Presidents. Spring has finally sprung!

We are in the midst of our annual membership drive. The membership dues are $20 per building, per year. You will receive a receipt from our treasurer at the time of your dues payment. You may present the receipt to your executive board and membership to request reimbursement since membership supports your duties and responsibilities as building president.

The goal of Cooperators United is to support building and townhouse association presidents in their quest to honor their fiduciary responsibilities. We hope to provide our members with the necessary information to speak to their members competently and confidently. Also, we provide contact information for you to have access to guest speakers and others who may offer in-depth insights to your members in areas of specific interest.

Our next general membership meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 28, at 7 p.m. in Bartow Center, Room 31. Our invited guest speaker will be Riverbay Corporation Executive General Manager, Marvin L. Walton. We look forward to status updates on the budget, on the new convector installation project, etc.

As per our organization bylaws, we meet from September through May.

Upon our return in September, we will endeavor to recap the first half of the year. We will set goals to move forward.

Please continue to support us as we endeavor to support you and your membership.

Beware of those consolidating power unto themselves.

“Absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

—Linda Collins

grams, volunteer recruitment drives and community engagement events. Support our youth. –B. Brown and A. Medina

The John Lewis Act is what we need: “Americans have come to rely on the promise that every citizen has the right to have their voice heard. But the U.S. House of Representatives largely erased that promise last week when, in 220-208 vote, it passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. Don’t be fooled by its heroic-sounding name. This legislation aims to disenfranchise millions of voters, many of them people of color and women, and further concentrate power among those who are already powerful.” –By Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP

Watch & Listen: Our culture, our stories on the NAACP+ YouTube channel. To purchase your NAACP Co-op City Branch T-Shirt, place your order now! Visit the office or send your money to the office. Adult cost $25 and Youth $20. Make checks payable to NAACP Co-op City Branch.

Follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP – Looking to make an even greater impact? Become a champion for change and join us to keep advancing Annual membership: adult, $30; youth, $10; silver life, $750. Make checks/ money orders payable to: NAACP Co-op City, Mailing address: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 36, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 To become a member online, go to: www.naacp.org membership. Select Co-op City (2210) and join. To leave a message, call the office phone at: 718-320-3210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com.

––Brenda Brown

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section—Our I.T. Committee, chaired by Kayla Grant, put their heads together and decided to share a monthly calendar on our website containing all of the scheduled committee meetings (with Zoom information included) and important events. Ideally, this calendar will be shared with all section members one week before the first of every month. Hopefully, this calendar will help us to be better organized.

Our official GirlTrek walking season will continue today, Saturday, April 26. We will be meeting by the entrance to the Dreiser Auditorium at 9 a.m., then walking over to the Greenway. For further information, contact Farah Martin at 917-806-2534 or Keisha Keelen at 917-697-4854, members of our Health Committee. We will be walking together for a shared mission of health, unity and Black girl power.

Our Ways & Means Committee co-chairs, Farah Martin and Keisha Keelen, wish to thank our friends and neighbors who supported us in March with our fundraiser.

Because of Mother’s Day, May is the one month when we don’t have our membership meeting on the second Sunday of the month. Usually, we meet on the third Sunday in May, but this year we would have a conflict with the Bronx Week Parade on the 18. At our April membership meeting, we agreed to have our May membership meeting on Wednesday, May 21, at 6:30 p.m. Complete information will follow.

Please continue to keep our sisters Gladys Pryer and Lori Melton high on the prayer list. Also, please continue to pray for our members who are in a nursing home, rehab center, or housebound.

NCNW National – April 1 was “Take Down Tobacco Day” and NCNW is calling upon you to take a stand. Join us along with our partners at Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids in advocating against tobacco usage among children. Big tobacco companies continue to use predatory practices to lure children into using their products. Many children are becoming addicted to flavored tobacco products and are at risk of developing chronic diseases. Stand against tobacco use and ensure that our kids can have a healthy future.

April 17 was Medicaid Day of Action. The Congressional majority wants to cut $800 billion in Medicaid while giving tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans. These cuts put 37 million children at risk of losing their Medicaid coverage. Particularly in low-income communities where people work in lower paying jobs with no benefits, we are asking you to call your Congressional members using the U.S. Capitol Switchboard 202-224-3121 and ask the operator to connect you to your Congressional Member – House and Senate. We are also asking you to go on social media and voice your support for Medicaid. NCNW remains committed to defending Medicaid and we will be champions.

—Joyce Howard

REMINDER – Carrying Charge Boxes

Shareholders are reminded that the carrying charge deposit boxes located in the community centers open on the morning of the first business day of the month and close at midnight on the 10th of the month, which is the last day to pay your carrying charges before a late fee is accessed. If the 10th of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, the carrying charge boxes remain open through the next business day. Riverbay Management

Linda Collins, president of Cooperators United (l), and Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson.

AARP

Greetings, to our sisters and brothers. If you walk around our community, you will notice spring has sprung and summer is on the way. Our Grounds team is doing a beautiful job with the spruce up of our grounds

The Bronx Night Market will be showcasing a diverse array of cuisines and unique local vendors, starting this Saturday, April 26, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., through July 16, 2025. The market is located at 1 Fordham Plaza, Bronx, NY.

Section 2 Summer Fun Day will be on Saturday, June 21, from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. Come out and enjoy a day of entertainment, music, dancing, fun and games with your neighbors. T-shirts are being sold for this event starting Wednesday, April 30, in Building 10 (120 Debs Place) and Building 11 (120 Carver Loop, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Please check your bulletin boards and the Co-op City Times for additional dates and information.

Please be reminded that our annual income affidavits must be turned in by April 30, 2025. You can submit your affidavit online by following the information provided in the Co-op City Times. You can also file a paper Affidavit that must be notarized. Please call our office at 718-320-1946 to find out when our notary will be present.

Please be aware that scammers are busy at work trying to steal whatever they can from us. I truly hope many of you attended the Co-op City NAACP’s Crime Prevention Scam meeting on April 22.

This is our last call for our May 13 through May 15 trip to the beautiful Finger Lakes area. A double room is $599, and a single room is $789. Monies

Building 28 Association

Dearest shareholders,

The annual Income Affidavit is now officially available. If you require notarization services, please do not hesitate to contact us at building28association@gmail.com. Please mark your calendars for Wednesday, May 7, at 7:30 p.m., as we will be hosting esteemed guest speakers, Councilmember Kevin Riley and Shekera A. Algarin.

Dues are still being collected to support our ongoing efforts to organize exciting events. The secretary position is currently vacant; interested individuals are encouraged to reach out to us. Reminder notices will be posted on the bulletin board and flyers throughout the community. Your active participation and engagement are essential to maintaining a strong community. Our prayers go out to all that are in a challenging time. Sending blessings to shut-ins.

“Unity is strength, division is weakness”

—Brenda

Brown

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry: 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). The pantry is open on Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m., for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. All guests must present a pantry card, at least 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 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The groceries are supplied by and distributed by Black Forum. Religious affiliation is not required. For the safety of our staff and other guests, mask wearing is required when picking up food. Our priority at Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry is to provide a safe and respectful environment for everyone accessing our services. To ensure the well-being of our staff, volunteers, and all guests, we have established guidelines for appropriate conduct.

While we are committed to serving our community, we reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who engages in disruptive or aggressive behavior. We will also cease service if an individual poses a risk to the safety of our staff or other guests. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining a positive and supportive atmosphere for everyone.

New Client Registration & Re-Certification for Returners: New client registration and returning client re-certification for 2025 are now closed. Thank you for your patience during the registration process.

Upcoming Trips: Black Forum is happy 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. Pick-up times: 920 Baychester Ave., 8:45 a.m.; Asch Loop (Baychester Avenue), 9:10 a.m.; 135 Einstein Loop (outside Community Center), 9:30 a.m. Please be early. Also, remember your assigned seat to ensure a quick departure. We are looking forward to seeing you!

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 are due by May 16. Saturday, August 16: Join us for a visually stunning show at Sight & Sound - Noah! Then, enjoy lunch at the award-winning Shady Maple Smorgasbord, the largest buffet in the U.S. Cost is $225. First payment to hold a seat $75 due by April 25; second payment of $75 due by May 23; last payment of $75 due by June 20.

Note: No refunds will be issued. For trip information only, please call 917-209-5334 or 929-464-5520. All proceeds go to the Black Forum to support Co-op City through our Emergency Food Pantry. Contact Us: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com

—D. Illis

must be paid immediately!

Our trip to the Tomasello Winery and Atlantic City on July 17 is still open. The cost for this wonderful day trip is $139 per person.

Our last trip of the year will be a grand cruise on the Queen Mary 2 ship to Canada and New England. The cruise will be from Oct. 10 to Oct. 17, 2025. A balcony room costs $3,058 and $3,106 per person. Money is due immediately.

Please contact Judith Wright at 718-379-3370 or Hannah Brown at 718379-7962 for more information on our trips.

We extend sincere condolences to Caroline Damon for the loss of her sister and Ann Purnell for the loss of her sister (June “Tauntie” Purnell). Please keep these families in your prayers.

If you know of a member or a family member that is experiencing an occasion, please contact our Health and Wellness Committee Chairperson, Mrs. Frances Wilson, at 718-530-4096 or call our office at 718-320-1946.

Please note our office is open Monday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 2:25 p.m., at 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 0. We can be reached by telephone at 718-320-1946 or by email at aarp4997@gmail.com.

We are looking forward to seeing you at our next General Membership meeting on Monday, May 12, at 1 p.m., in the Dreiser Loop Auditorium.

We are here to serve. Not to be served.

—Deborah

D. Henry

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, retirees, and friends,

We hope this finds everyone well. April is quickly winding down and May is just around the corner.

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

June Luncheon – Our June luncheon will be held at the Marina del Rey on Wednesday, June 18, from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The price of tickets is $110 (transportation included on a first paid/first seated basis). Tickets are now available for purchase. Questions may be addressed to Daisy Young at (917) 292-7010 or Ted Byrd at (917) 797-9230. Daisy will be available in Room 19 for the purchase and payment of tickets, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. Atlantic City – Wednesday, July 9. A day trip to the Tropicana Casino. Tickets are $70 with a $15 slot-play giveback. The bus will pick up at Dreiser Loop, in front of H&R Block and will depart at 8 a.m. sharp. Upon our return, the bus will drop off at Einstein, Asch and Dreiser Loop. Contact Serita for additional information at (347) 564-5722.

Hunderton Hills Playhouse – In Hampton, NJ on Tuesday, September 16. Tickets are $160 and includes lunch and a show “Never Too Late.” A $50 deposit is required ASAP to hold a seat. The bus will pick up at Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block and depart promptly at 9 a.m. Contact Serita for additional information at (347) 564-5722.

Scholarship Committee – Scholarship applications are now available in Room 19. Applicants must be high school seniors scheduled to graduate in June 2025. Applicants must be the child, grandchild, great-grandchild, or great-great grandchild of a RODL member whose membership is in good standing (membership paid up for the past two years). Completed applications must be submitted by May 16. Questions may be addressed to JoAnn at (718)710-9082.

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

Condolences – Please continue to keep Caroline Damon and her family in your thoughts and prayers as they continue to mourn the loss of her sister. We continue to pray for all who have recently suffered a loss.

Good and Welfare – We are sending our best wishes to those who are ill and/or shut-in. You are in our healing thoughts and prayers. Please notify Lorraine Parker at (718)671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths.

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

General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 5, at 1 p.m., in the Dreiser Center, Auditorium C. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend. We look forward to seeing you there.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Garage Reminders:

• Follow Speed Limit - 5MPH

• Observe One-Way and Do Not Enter Signs

• Park Centered Within Lines/Not Angled or Taking Two Spots

• Watch For Pedestrians - Turn Corners Slowly

• Avoid Walking Down the Middle of Ramps or Lanes

• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings at All Times.

Church of God’s Children

Blessings to all from the Church of God’s Children family to yours. Saturday/Sabbath blessings to you. May the peace of our Lord be with you. We are located at 127 Dreiser Loop on the patio level. Our number: 718-790-9120. Zelle: 917-558-6700. Our Bishop is Nancy Rosario. We welcome you to join us in fellowship or any of the houses of worship within the community.

Be comfortable praising our Lord wherever you are. We are a word-teaching church, so come as you are, and enjoy your day with the families that gather here. Sunday services in English, 10 a.m. Servicios en Espanol Domingo, 12 p.m. Escuela biblica, 10:30 a.m. Monday Bible Studies and prayer with Rev. Steve at 9:30 a.m. Visit the ministry shop at 163 Dreiser Loop for a variety of items, fellowship, and prayer with Sis. Inez.

“Do not get drunk with wine, in which there is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18) For Jesus’ disciples, the Holy Spirit changed everything. Waiting in the upper room, weak and uncertain, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with different tongues, as the Spirit was giving them the ability to speak out.” (Acts 2:4). Suddenly, God’s power flowed in their lives. Their weakness was replaced with supernatural strength and boldness. The Spirit changed the apostle Paul when Ananias laid hands on him and told him he was to be filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:17). Initially he may not have known what that meant, but he was to discover that all believers need the Spirit and should be “filled with the Holy Spirit.”

This message gripped the heart of Elwood Haines Stokes, who wrote a hymn called “Fill Me Now.” In the form of a prayer, Stokes asked Jesus to “fill me with Thy hallowed presence.” His prayer was that the Spirit would “bathe my trembling heart and brow,” and that he would be filled with His presence. Stokes did not understand how this happened but knew that he needed the Spirit. He cried out for the Spirit to “cleanse and comfort” him, bless and save him. Remember your flesh is weak, but the Spirit is willing (Matthew 26:41). He can do amazing things if you wait on Him. Seek to be filled with the Spirit, to live in the Spirit, and to be controlled and empowered by the Spirit. Write a prayer asking the Holy Spirit for a fresh filling of His power.

––Bishop Nancy Rosario

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15

Juan 14:6: Jesús respondió: “Yo soy el camino, la verdad y la vida. Nadie viene al Padre sino por mí.”

Te extendemos una invitación para que vengas a Jesús. Es un llamado de Jesucristo para que las personas tengan una relación personal con Él. Es una invitación abierta a todos, independientemente de su posición en la vida.

¿Cuál es la invitación a venir a Jesús?

• Jesús invita a la gente a venir a él y encontrar descanso.

• Jesús invita a las personas a aprender de él y a llevar sobre ellos su yugo.

• Jesús invita a las personas a recibirlo como su salvador y convertirse en hijos de Dios.

Sería la mejor decisión que haya tomado. Estamos aquí para ayudarlo con esa invitación. Por favor únete a nosotros. Somos una congregación pequeña, pero nuestra hospitalidad y amor superan nuestro tamaño. Somos la única iglesia hispana en la comunidad de la Sección 5 y nuestras puertas están abiertas para recibir a aquellos que buscan una iglesia basada en la Biblia. Nuestra iglesia está en 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, segundo piso, salón #33.

Lunes: Estudios Bíblicos Español/telefónico: 9:00 p.m. (564-888-5521; Código: 696248)

Martes/Viernes: Estudios Bíblicos, Zoom: 8:00 p.m. (ID 3447367643; Código: 3jEJ2W)

Jueves: Estudios Bíblicos telefónico: Ingles, 7:00 p.m. y en Español, 9:00 p.m. (564-888-5521; Código: 696248)

Domingos: Culto de Adoración, 11:30 a.m.

La Santa Cena es el 1er Domingo del mes

Que Dios le bendiga y recuerda que Cristo te ama.

John 14:6: Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

We extend an invitation for you to come to Jesus. It is a call from Jesus Christ for people to have a personal relationship with Him. It is an invitation that is open to everyone, regardless of their station in life.

What is the invitation to come to Jesus?

• Jesus invites people to come to him and find rest.

• Jesus invites people to learn from him and take his yoke upon them.

• Jesus invites people to receive him as their savior and become children of God. It would be the best decision you ever made. We are here to help you through that invitation. Please come join us. We are a small congregation, but our hospitality and love surpass our size. We are the only Hispanic church in the Section 5 community and our doors are open to receive those who are looking for a Bible-based church. Our church is at 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, 2nd Floor, Room #33. Services Offered

Monday: Spanish Bible Studies/phone: 9:00 p.m. (564-888-5521; Code: 696248)

Tuesday/Friday: Zoom Bible Studies: 8:00 p.m. (ID 3447367643; Code: 3jEJ2W)

Thursday: Telephone Bible Studies: English, 7:00 p.m. and in Spanish, 9:00 p.m. (564-888-5521; Code: 696248)

Sundays: Worship Service, 11:30 a.m.

Holy Communion is the 1st Sunday of the month.

God bless you and remember, Jesus loves you

—Blanca Santana

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 is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” Matthew 28:6 NIV Easter Sunday is over, but the message of the resurrected Christ continues. After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples. He sat with them and opened their minds to understand the purpose of His death and resurrection. He also told them that God’s mission extended to all nations—that people everywhere would hear about Him and come to trust in Him. For the disciples, everything changed after their encounter with the risen Jesus. Their story of fear, guilt, and despair was transformed. They now had hope and a renewed purpose in Christ. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, they went on to share the good news, and thousands upon thousands came to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

As Christians, when we fully grasp the meaning of Christ’s death and resurrection, we cannot go on living as if nothing has changed. Jesus rose from the dead as proof of God’s power to overcome the darkness of the world. Because of this, our lives are more than the fears, guilt, and despair that once defined us. In Christ, we are transformed. Our belief in the resurrected Savior gives us a new life, a new identity, and a new purpose.

So, what do we do now?

We remember, with joy and gratitude, that our Lord Jesus has not been dethroned—He lives, and His mission continues. The message of the resurrection offers hope both now and for eternity. This hope should compel us to stand firm in our faith and, like His first disciples, give ourselves fully to sharing this ongoing Easter message with a broken world—one in which many are living without hope.

May the Holy Spirit help us to point them to our Savior through both our words and our actions, so they too may encounter Him and be forever changed.

Come and Receive a Blessing: All Are Welcome!

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

Tuesday: Prayer Meeting in Rm. 43, in the Einstein Center at 1 p.m. (new) English Bible Study at 6 p.m. via Zoom (904 4685745)

Thursdays: Pantry at 11 a.m.

Upcoming Events – Save The Dates

Saturday, April 26: Josefa’s viewing from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., following a repast at Co-op City UMC

Sunday, April 27: Escuela Dominical at 11:15 a.m. English Service at 11:15 a.m. Spanish Service at 12:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 3: Flea Market. Come Join us for a day of shopping, eating, and fun, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Interested vendors can contact Pauline Taylor at 718-320-1552 or Jackie Dove at 361-249-7073.

—Grace Abadia

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle

177 Dreiser Loop, second floor, Rm. 2.

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

Tomorrow is The First Sunday after Easter. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus we will hear about in the Gospel lesson for this Sunday, we often do not recognize that Jesus is with us. God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34). This means that there are no barriers between us and Him. He will use any opportunity, and all of our experiences, to bring us closer to Him. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we often walk through life blind to God’s presence in our experiences. However, through our spiritual ‘blindness,’ the study of the Word, and fellowship, God reveals himself, transforming all our experiences into pathways that draw us closer to him. Let us embrace both the highs and lows of our journey, for they are all instrumental in God’s master plan to bring us nearer to him.

The First Sunday after Easter, April 27, 2025

• 11 a.m. Communion Service.

• Fellowship with light refreshments following the service.

Bible Lessons:

• Acts 10:34-42

• Luke 24:13-35

Prayer: O LORD Christ, by whose eternal Sacrifice we exist, and in whose victory we triumph, grant that, in joy or in sorrow, we may never lose our grateful memory of Thine unchanging love, who livest and reignest God throughout all ages of ages. Amen.

—Rev. Dorian Miceli

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

Tomorrow, Sunday, April 27, our combined Men’s

Co-op City Baptist Church

and Women’s Day service will be celebrated at the 11 a.m. service. The guest preacher will be Apostle Mary Freeman-Coaxum, Pastor of Emmanuel Church For All People in Harlem, NY. The theme is: “Men and Women Trusting God to Direct Thy Paths” – Proverbs 3:5-6. The colors are white with a touch of royal blue. Everyone is invited.

This Week’s Events: Wednesday Bible Study Class at 1 p.m. on Zoom. Prayer Warriors Prayer Service on Thursday at 12 p.m. on the church conference call line. On Thursday at 2 p.m. the Circle of Grace Knit and Crochet Group will meet in person at the church in Rm. 51. Friday Mid-Morning Prayer Service at 10 a.m. is on the church conference call line.

Our National Day of Prayer Service will be held on Thursday, May 1, at 12 p.m. Kindly note, this year the prayer service will be held in the church. Everyone is invited.

The Youth and Young Adult Ministry invites you to join them at the Co-op City Baptist Church, Rm. 51, for “Operation Fuel-up: Mission Meals for Momen-

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

The Power of the Resurrection

We have a hope that transcends the pain of our present reality. Through the resurrection we gain heaven and are declared heirs.

(Ephesians 1:18) “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people…” The resurrection of Jesus gave us a vast inheritance, we need to understand its power.

“And his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,” The power that resurrected Jesus now lives in us as believers, it is legally ours.

“Far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come,” Anything invoked is less than Jesus, generations, curses, trials cannot compare to Him.

“And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Everything is under Jesus’ dominion. The church exists by his power, created to represent Him on earth. All we do points to Him.

Tim Laniak - The day of Jesus’ resurrection occurred on the day during Passover when the first sheaf of the grain harvest was waved in the temple. It was the sign of a coming harvest only possible because each seed first dies its necessary death.

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.

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.

Newsong Church

Take Your Next Step

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me’.” Matthew 16:24 (NLT)

Following Jesus isn’t simply a “one and done” decision. It is a big decision filled with tiny choices throughout each day. Jesus is inviting all of us to follow Him and become who we were truly meant to be. No matter who you are, or how long you’ve been following Jesus, there’s always a next step to take! Join us this Sunday as we start our new teaching series, “Step Forward,” and discover the steps that Jesus wants us to apply to our lives!

About Us: Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We believe that every person can know God, find freedom, discover their purpose, and make a difference in this world! No matter what you’ve been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family. Check us out, we’re located at 135 Einstein Loop!

Sunday Worship Experience: Every Sunday at 11 a.m. Our Sunday worship experience starts with celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. Colossians 3:16 says, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” We sing to bring glory and honor to God and celebrate who He is and what He’s doing in our church!

Newsong Deaf Church, Rm. 35: Our deaf worship experience is in ASL so that our deaf and hearing impaired can worship and fellowship in their own language!

tum” on Saturday, May 3, from 12 p.m. until sold out. You can purchase: agent burgers, hotshot hot dogs, popcorn “pop bombs,” spy cakes and more. Everyone is invited.

The next CCBC Food Giveaway will be distributed on Friday, May 9, 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. Everyone is welcome.

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

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.; Adult Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. Every Wednesday: “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer” at 12 p.m. on the conference call line, 712-432-3900; Access Code: 343284#

Every Wednesday: 7 p.m. 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.

Upcoming Services: Sunday, May 4: Pastor’s Birthday Celebration at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 4: Shepherd’s Ministry Anniversary at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 1: Church Anniversary at 11 a.m.

Spring Revival prepared us royally for Holy Week as we spent time reflecting, praying and remembering Christ‘s sacrifice. Beginning Maundy Thursday with Co-op City Baptist, Rev. Dr. Sheldon Williams delivered the sermon and silent communion was observed.

On Good Friday four preachers, Bishop Mary Freeman-Coaxum, Rev. Quinton E. Ervin, Rev. Dr. Thomas Johnson, and our own Pastor, Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens, took the Seven Last Words of Jesus and preached them. And did they preach!

On Resurrection Sunday, we praised the Lord with scripture, prayer, music and the word. Deacon Helen Atkins invoked His presence and read Matthew 28:1-10. The Music Ministry played. The choir lifted their voices and our spirits. Rev. Mark Fowler prayed wholeheartedly during Altar Call and Pastor preached “Resurrection Reservations,” reading from Mark 16:9-14. Pastor asked the congregation, “Do you believe? Is He alive in you?“ Our response was a resounding yes! Thank you for your fellowship and for celebrating God’s love with us. We begin mornings with Adult Sunday School, which allows the opportunity to enhance and deepen personal relationships with God through biblical teachings. Are you looking for a church home? We invite you to worship, explore and experience all the new possibilities at Community Protestant, a church of love and understanding.

We extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Sister Caroline Damon on the passing of her sister, Mrs. Charlotte Atwood, as well as to all who are in a season of mourning. To our sick and shut-in members, please know that we are praying mightily for you and for your speedy recovery. Our best happy birthday wishes to everyone celebrating their special day this month. Happy anniversary to high school sweethearts, Deacon James and Sister Julia Nicholson, who celebrated 63 years of marriage on April 22nd!

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,” Hebrews 10:24

—Lexa M. Mingo

Kidsong, Rm. 49: We’ve created a place where children can have fun and learn about Jesus on their own level!

Against The Flow: Every Friday at 6:30 p.m., in Rm. 42; ATF is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s middle and high school students will lead the next generation of the church and change the world. At ATF, our goal is to graduate students into a lifetime of following Jesus.

So, what are you waiting for? There’s a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! Do you live outside of Section 5? Remember, a church alive is worth the drive! Come and find hope. Come and find healing. Come and find freedom.

Contact Us: Mailing Address: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 42

Phone: 917-342-2559

Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org

Prayer Request Line: Text “Prayer” to 877-899-7323

Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org

Social Media: Facebook/IG/X: @newsongchurchbx; YouTube: Newsong Church NYC

—Pastor Mike Tolone

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

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

Sunday service at 11:00 a.m. All are welcomed. Masks are required.

Daily Noon Day Prayer Line – 12-12:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. Join us for Wednesday Night Bible study and prayer, the Conference Line Number is 646-769-9900; Access Code: 3099388# Please mute your phone.

Worship Service Message: “The Lord Has Risen Indeed”

Service Scripture: (Luke 24:34 KJV) “Saying, the Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.” Good Friday Service can be viewed on YouTube Go to Kenneth Hodge: “The Last Seven Words of Jesus Christ the Lord.” Thank you to the presenters of this wonderful, emotional service lifting up Jesus. We are thankful and grateful for Pastors Johnny and Diane Simmons and Lifeline Ministries; Pastor Pamela Williams; Elder Mike Adolpus and Amen Ministries; Rev. Dr. Sheldon Williams and Co-op City Baptist Church; and Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge, and Church of the New Vision. Special thanks to the Church of New Vi-

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B.

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-opCity to donate, or mail to The Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After service, 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 and is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message. The Synagogue has a Facebook page “Traditional Synagogue.”

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

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, May 3, at 7:40 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, May 9, at 8:25 p.m.

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

To All Members: Happy Birthday to Karla Klaus and all other members who will be celebrating their birthday in May. 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

Church of the New Vision

sion Music Ministry and all attending online and in person. Continue to be faithful and hold on to the future hope.

Save The Dates:

Women’s Self-Care Event – Rescheduled for Saturday, April 26 from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of Christian fellowship and a light lunch. This event is open to all women to take time to refresh spiritually, mentally and physically. To RSVP and more information, please contact Sis. Loretta Scott at 718-671-2623.

May 18 – Please join us for our Women’s Day program. To demonstrate our oneness in Christ, women are encouraged to wear white. The theme is “Walking in the Light.” (1John 1:6-7)

June 7 – Meet and greet luncheon for the Celebrity Beyond cruise. Travelers only at 1:00 p.m.

June 8 – Seniors, family and friends Sunday Ser-

vice 11:00 a.m. All invited. Each one, bring one. August 9 – Family and Friends Picnic at Glenn Island Park. Information to follow.

August 12 – “NOAH” at the Sight and Sound Theatre in Lancaster, PA. Lunch buffet at Miller’s. Adults: $230. Youth: $175 (age 3-12). Non-refundable deposit of $50 per person due now; second payment due April 30; final payment due by July 6. Contacts: Loretta Scott at 718-671-2623 or Sadie James 917-667-4229.

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.

—Brenda Brown

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: 718-3200844. Priest-in-charge: Fr. Simeon Johnson, cell phone: 917-227-4303.

In-person worship service for the Second Sunday of Easter will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, April 27, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference.

Please do not forget to tune in for the usual teleconference weekday prayers at 12 noon. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344; Access Code: 509-898, followed by the # sign.

Pledge Cards for 2025 are still available. Please collect, complete and return yours to the church as soon as possible. We know that 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

May 11: Just a reminder that it is Mother’s Day and you know what you should do.

May 24: Celebration of St. Joseph’s Day. Potluck, karaoke and raffle drawing. Please note the change in date due to a conflict of interest. Raffle tickets are $5 for a book of six tickets. Tickets are available from Valrie, 347-2005850 and some members of St. Joseph’s.

Redeemed Seventh Day Church

Community Service

The church is organized for service. We serve the community as the hands and feet of Christ. One of the members of Redeemed Church is a licensed Aromathera-

pist who uses essential oils in her work. For additional information, please contact us at 646-934-9709.

—Ruth Anderson

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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 to hold your seat. The balance of $110 is due by June 15, after which there will be no refunds. For more information, please contact Sheila 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 remember to 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 and blessings to everyone celebrating a birthday this month.

We continue to collect 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

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to worship service, 100 Co-op City Blvd., 22A, Bronx, NY 10475. Sunday School for all ages starts at 10:30 a.m. Worship service starts at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service will be held at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bible Study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. Friday evening worship Service starts at 7:30 p.m. Tel. 718- 324-0334 or 718-320-4218.

All night services will be held online. Call 646-931-3860, Meeting ID: 85748454513 [Code 850684].

Focus: There is only one gospel that can save from sin – the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ

Galatians 1:8-11

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preaches any other unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I yet please men, I should not be the servant of Christ, But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. Paul’s reprimand of the Galatians was strong and clear: But though we or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that we have preach unto you let him be accursed. In this statement Paul even admitted that even he could possibly slip from this wonderful gospel: but regardless, the Galatians should hold to the truth of the gospel. People who choose to depart from the true gospel always give excuses as to why they do not live for God. Some may try to excuse themselves based on the failure of a highly visible minister or another Christian who once was held in high esteem but fell prey to sin. But Paul did not even excuse himself to preach any other gospel Message. He admonished the Galatians that even if he were to preach any other, they should not believe him. The church belongs to God and not man, we preach an everlasting gospel for an everlasting church.

Paul states in Galatians, chapter 1, verse [11 & 12], I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. The surety of the next words, let him be accursed’ Seals the certainty that God has given this gospel, to leave Anathema is the Greek word translated accursed. Anyone who Preaches any other message is anathema which means they are excommunicated or cut off from God, reiterated the word anathema in verse 9 to add emphasis to the seriousness of the matter, not from anger, he wanted to make sure that he does not leave any room for doubt or misunderstanding. Paul’s warning to the Galatians still speaks to us today, we should not tolerate false gospel.

—Rev. R. Sibblies

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