Co-op City Times 06-28-25 by Co-op City Times

In-Person Voting in Riverbay Board Election Ends Today, June 28

BY ROZAAN BOONE

In-person voting in the 2025 Riverbay Board of Directors election began on Wednesday, June 25, at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders in the Dreiser Center and will end today, Saturday, June 28, at 8 p.m.

Shareholders who have not yet cast their 2025 ballot in the Board election, and would like to vote in person, can attend election day activities in the Bartow Center beginning from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. The theme of the day is “Don’t be chicken” and, according to the Election Committee, festivities begin at 4 p.m.

ID is required to vote in-person. Among acceptable forms of ID are: Driver’s license (or state ID), current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, Senior Citizen MetroCard with

name, or any government document with the shareholder’s name.

Shareholders also have the option of ﬁlling out their ballot, then placing the completed ballot in the “Secret Ballot Envelope” included in the mailed ballot envelope. Next, the Secret Ballot Envelope should be placed into the pre-addressed, postage-paid envelope and deposited into either a US mailbox or the secure Riverbay Corporation ballot box in each

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DOT Proposes Tra c Changes Around Education Park

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

At the 2025 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting on Wednesday, June 25, Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders kicked off the meeting with a presentation to shareholders about the Department of Transportations (DOT) proposed plan to change the trafﬁc ﬂow pattern around Education Park.

The proposed changes, which were shared during a Community Board 10 meeting back in April, were presented as a way to address trafﬁc concerns along Baychester Avenue, specially between Aldrich Street and Rombouts Avenue, and Donizetti Place, which frequently experience a high volume of trafﬁc due to the six schools that make up Education Park (PS. 153, PS. 178, MS. 180, MS. 181, Bronx Health Sciences High School and Truman High School).

The DOT’s plan for Baychester Avenue, from the New England Thru to Donizetti Place, includes removing one lane of trafﬁc in each direction. This would create an additional parking lane on one side of

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Annual Shareholders

Meeting and Open Board Meeting held in Dreiser, June 25

BY ROZAAN BOONE

The Annual Shareholders’ meeting and Open Board meeting of the Riverbay Board of Directors was held on Wednesday, June 25, in the Dreiser Auditorium. The day also marked the beginning of in-person voting in the 2025 Riverbay Board of Directors election for ﬁve candidates to be elected to the 2025-2026 Board.

Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders opened the meeting with a President’s Report centered on the proposed DOT’s Baychester Avenue Safety plan, bringing to shareholders’ attention the ﬁner details of the plan, and its implications for safety of Co-op City shareholders and related trafﬁc concerns (See report on page 1.)

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Message from 2025 Election Committee

This week, co-chairs of the 2025 Riverbay Board Election Committee issued the following statements to shareholders: Board Director Monique Coleman: “Make Your Vote Count. Vote Today! Last year, only about one-third of eligible shareholders voted in the Riverbay Board of Directors election. Over 6,000 Co-op City residents voted in Tuesday’s New York Primary Election, showing what we can achieve when we come together as a commUNITY. As of yesterday (Tuesday, June 24), we’ve received 1,002 votes by mail for our Riverbay Board of Directors election. We still need 4,039 more votes cast to achieve a quorum to make sure our voices are heard. The Co-op City commUNITY can and must do better. You vote shapes our future – from leadership and services to decisions that affect our everyday lives. Whether you vote by mail, drop it off, or cast it in person, your vote matters. Our strength is in our numbers, let’s make them count!”

This Management Report will be a “Year in Review” for Fiscal Year beginning April 1, 2024, and ending March 31, 2025. The report provides select signiﬁcant actions taken by Management for the corporation and will be presented on a departmental level. This summary does not include the actions of all Riverbay Departments.

Budget and Finance Department

The grand total actual expenses for the corporation were $270.7 Millon. The actual expenses includethe three (3) functional expense

(Continued on page 2) (Continued on page 2)

Candidates’ Forum #1 for the 2025 Riverbay Board Election is now live on Youtube. Scan the QR codes to watch now and to subscribe to our YouTube channel. Stayed tuned for forums #2 and #3.

Quorum Update

As of press time Friday, June 27, 1,095 (7.24%) ballots were received by YesElections for the 2025 Riverbay Board Election. Returned ballots include 21 electronic and 1,074 paper ballots.

Three thousand, nine hundred and sixty-seven (3,967) ballots are still needed to reach quorum. Please cast your ballot by placing it in a secure Riverbay Corporation ballot box located in the three community centers, in a US mailbox or at in-person voting in Bartow today, Saturday, June 28, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Monique Coleman Leah Graham

Management ––––– (Continued from page 1) categories: departmental, corporate, and debt service & fees. The grand total actual income was $285.7 Million. These results yielded a surplus of $15.0 Million for the ﬁscal year.

Residential Sales Department

The Residential Sales department surpassed its goal of 360 closings. There were 366 closings, of which 308 were new sales and 58 were internal transfers. These transactions generated approximately $12.0 Million in equity/revenue for the corporation. There were 354 move-outs during the ﬁscal year. Residential Sales will continuously strive to meet or exceed their goal of 420 closings for FY 25/26, according to the availability of apartments and DHCR approvals.

Restoration Department

The Restoration department restored 425 apartments which were just below the planned goals of 480. This was primarily due to less move-outs than were projected for the ﬁscal year. The Restoration department is planning to restore 420 apartments (average of 35 apartments per month) for FY25/26.

Procurement Department

The Procurement Department processed a total of 134 Contracts inclusive of 41 change orders totaling $34.3 Million and 1,944 Purchase Orders totaling $10.7 Million. These transactions supported the direct services delivered to shareholders and their families.

Human Resources Department

The Human Resources Department received approximately 5,666 resumes for all position openings and conducted 408 interviews. A total of 122 employees hired and 94 separated from the corporation. The separations were either resignations, terminations, or retirements. At the end of the ﬁscal year, 886 position ﬁlled and 62 vacancies.

Risk Management Department

The Risk Management Department processed 136 Workers’ Compensation cases, 35 injuries and general liability cases, and 141 Property damage cases. The department also successfully renewed the corporation’s 17 non-health care insurance policies. These insurance policies serve as a safety net and protect the corporation from unexpected lawsuits ﬁled against the corporation.

Call Center

The Call Center agents received 145,176 calls, resulting in an average monthly call volume of 12,098 calls. Agents in the Call Center created/opened 61,812 work orders and completed/closed 58,481 work orders.

Other Information

Management would like to remind shareholders of the Demand Response program that we participate in with ConEdison. There are two (2) revenue

generating programs that generate approximately $4.0 Million annually for the corporation. During an event, the requirement of Riverbay is to shed energy during a designated period. When called for an event, there is no impact on cooling in the community.

Management appreciates the continued partnership with the Shareholders of Riverbay Corporation and the Board Directors. Working together to improve the conditions in the community and quality of life for our shareholders and their families is our top priority.

Message

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Board Director Leah Graham: “Please vote. We need you to make quorum. We don’t want to pay for an extension… I want to say thank you to everyone who has voted already, we greatly appreciate it. I’m not certain if my colleague, Monique, mentioned it but YesElections said we have already received over 1,000 ballots. We are a self-sustaining corporation and everything that we have, we pay for with our carrying charges, and that includes an extension. This election is not free. And if we don’t have a quorum, we have to pay for an extension. What’s really very important is that you tell your neighbors, tell everyone … to please, please, please participate. The election is our responsibility.”

Riverbay Administrative Offices will be closed on Friday., July 4, in observance of Independence Day.

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Farmers’ Market Returns in July

The Harvest Home Farmers Market will return to Co-op City in July. More details will be forthcoming.

Make a Plan & Plan to Vote!...

... in the 2025 Riverbay Board of Directors election. Keep reading the Co-op City Times and vote to help make the quorum to avoid extending the election.

The Voting Period is from June 11–July 8 at 9 p.m. Be sure to return your ballot as soon as it arrives.

Be An Engaged Shareholder

Shareholders are encouraged to submit input on how to improve services and service delivery as well as other ideas that impact the quality of life of Co-op City residents.

Stay Safe, Cool and Informed is Summer

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

As we enter into summer and as temperatures reach the high-90’s, shareholders are reminded to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated.

High temperatures can be dangerous, especially to older adults, children and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Prolonged exposure to the heat and sun can lead to a slew of heat-related illnesses like heat stroke, heat exhaustion and even sun poisoning.

Shareholders who are outside and looking for a place to cool down during the hot summer days, can visit cooling centers, which are indoor air-conditioned places open to the public. The cooling centers in Co-op City are the JASA Centers at Bartow, Dreiser and Einstein Centers. You can also visit https://ﬁnder.nyc.gov/coolingcenters/locations to ﬁnd cooling centers in and around Co-op City. A citywide map of outdoor cooling options like outdoor pools, spray showers and drinking fountains can be found online at https://www. nycgovparks.org/about/health-and-safety-guide/cool-it-nyc

Senior and homebound shareholders are also encouraged to sign up for the R.U.O.K. Telephone Reassurance Program that is run by the Co-op City Public Safety Department. Through this free program shareholders can sign up to receive daily check-in phone calls from CCPD, allowing shareholders a way to connect with someone in case they need assistance or might be experiencing a medical emergency.

Once registered to R.U.O.K., the shareholder will begin to receive a daily phone call at a pre-set time, all they have to do is answer the call and either inform the dispatcher that they are okay or request assistance. If the first call is not answered, two follow-up calls will be made. If all attempts to contact the shareholder are unsuccessful, then their emergency contact will be notified, and a Public Safety officer will be sent to check on the shareholders’ well-being.

To sign up for R.U.O.K., shareholders can either pick up the application at the CCPD window located at 2049 Bartow Ave. or access a ﬁllable pdf at coopcity.com or on page 19. To access the pdf, click on the Resources tab on the homepage and select “CCPD” from the drop-down menu. Once ﬁlled out, the application can be either emailed to info@ccpd.us or to: Co-op City Department of Public Safety, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475. Attn: Lt. Christopher Bulat.

This program is different from the CCPD Emergency

Assistance Database and the Phone Tree Alert System. The CCPD Emergency Assistance Database is a list maintained by CCPD of shareholders who use life-support devices, walking aids, or require special accommodations. It helps ensure that those shareholders receive priority assistance during emergencies. The Phone Tree system, on the other hand, is a notiﬁcation service shareholders can sign up for to receive alerts and notices from Riverbay about water shutdowns, power outages, load-shedding events, etc.

During the hotter days, shareholders are also encouraged to stay indoors, if possible, and limit the amount of time spent doing activities outdoors. If you do go outdoors, try to stay in the shade, wear sunscreen, and remember to stay hydrated. Try to also limit outdoor activities to the early morning and evening when temperatures are at the lowest. The sun’s peak hours are typically from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. During those hotter days, try to do activities to keep cool, like going to the movies, walking in an air-conditioned mall, or visiting a pool.

“As temperatures soar to nearly 100 degrees this week, we urge all New Yorkers to take the heat seriously,” New York City Emergency Mangement (NYCEM) Commissioner Zach Iscol said in a press release. “Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and, most importantly, ﬁnd places in your neighborhood to cool down, so you and your family avoid the dangerous consequences of heat illness.”

Children and pets should also never be left unattended in a car. According to the CDC, after just 20 minutes on an 80-degree day, the inside of a car can hit 109 degrees Fahrenheit. After 40 minutes, it can hit 118 degrees, and after an hour, it can hit 123 degrees.

Pets are also susceptible to heat and dehydration during the summer months. When the temperature is very high, do not let your dog linger on hot asphalt as it can burn their paw pads.

If you or someone you know feels weak or faint while outside, ﬁnd a cool or shady place and drink water. If there is no improvement, call 911.

You can visit https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/heatrelillness.html for a list of heat-related illnesses and symptoms.

You can also ﬁnd more resources and tips on how to stay cool during the hot summer days by visiting NYCEM’s Beat the Heat page at https://tinyurl.com/pmfmk8xa

Riverbay Provides Update on Security Incident

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

If you have a suggestion you’d like to share with the Riverbay Board and/or Management, visit the Home page of the ofﬁcial Co-op City website, coopcity.com, scroll down to the bottom and click on the “Comments & Suggestions” link or scan the QR Code here to be connected.

Riverbay Corporation provided an update on Friday, June 20, in regards to a security incident that affected Riverbay’s information technology (IT) network.

On May 21, Riverbay identiﬁed “unusual activity” in its IT network. After conﬁrming the suspicious activity, Riverbay immediately implemented measures to “isolate and secure” their systems.

Subsequently, Riverbay Corporation “launched an investigation with the assistance of a third-party cybersecurity firm and notified law enforcement.” From that investigation, Riverbay confirmed that an unauthorized party had gained access to the IT network for roughly a month from April 21 to May 21. On June 2, Riverbay concluded that the unauthorized party “accessed and/or acquired files from certain computer systems.”

encouraged to call the dedicated toll-free hotline Riverbay established at 1-866-461-1672 on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.

In related network security news, insurance giant Aflac announced on June 20 that they had experienced a security incident earlier in the month and provided an update on the situation. “On June 12, 2025, Aflac Incorporated identified suspicious activity on our network in the United States. We promptly initiated our cyber incident response protocols and stopped the intrusion within hours. Importantly, our business remains operational, and our systems were not affected by ransomware,” Aflac said.

Equally important, Aﬂac said they are currently reviewing what data was compromised in the security incident.

Shareholders should be aware that Riverbay’s investigation “cannot rule out the possibility that ﬁles that may contain information pertaining to Co-op City shareholders and applicants, as well as current and former Riverbay employees, may have been accessed and/or acquired by the unauthorized party as a result of the incident. In addition, the incident may involve information pertaining to residents of Co-op City, if their information was provided to Riverbay by the shareholder they reside with. The information potentially involved includes names, Social Security numbers, and bank account and routing numbers,” Riverbay said on June 20.

Riverbay also said that they began notifying individuals whose information may be involved in the incident last week on June 20.

Shareholders who have questions about the incident are

“We have commenced a review of potentially impacted files. It is important to note that the review is in its early stages, and we are unable to determine the total number of affected individuals until that review is completed. The potentially impacted files contain claims information, health information, social security numbers, and/or other personal information, related to customers, beneficiaries, employees, agents, and other individuals in our U.S. business… While our teams work to review the potentially impacted data and determine the specific information involved, we are offering any individual who contacts our dedicated call center free credit monitoring and identity theft protection, and Medical Shield for 24 months,” Aflac went on to say. If individuals have any additional questions, they can contact Aflac’s call center at 1-855-361-0305. The call center is open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

of the community centers. These ballot boxes are maintained by YesElections during the election period. Completed ballots can also be brought to the in-person voting site and deposited into a YesElections ballot box.

Mailed ballots must be postmarked by July 8, 2025 to be counted in the election. Ballot envelopes postmarked after July 8 or without a postmark will not be counted. Please also note that ballots not enclosed in the postage- paid envelope will not be counted.

The postage-paid envelope has a unique code imprinted on the front which is specific to each unit eligible to vote in the Board election and is used by the election vendor to validate the ballot. This method is considered a more reliable and efficient method of validation, thereby enabling the election vendor to preserve the integrity and confidentiality of the election process.

The voting period in the 2025 Riverbay Board election ends at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8.

Shareholders are voting to elect five candidates to represent them on the Riverbay Board of Directors. Votes can be cast for up to five candidates, and voting for more than five will invalidate your ballot so shareholders are advised to read the instructions provided in their ballot letter carefully. If you do not wish to vote for candidates, you may check the box to cast your ballot for quorum purposes only.

This year, 5,041 certiﬁed ballots, or 1/3 of shareholders eligible to vote in the election, are required to make quorum and validate the election for the Board of Directors.

As of press time Friday, Yes Elections reported 1,095 ballots have so far been received, or 7.24% of required ballots to make quorum. Of the 1,095 ballots received, 1,074 are paper ballots and 21 were cast electronically at in-person voting facilitated

by YesElections from June 26-June 27.

Anyone who has not received a Board election ballot or who needs a replacement ballot should contact the election vendor at (855) 970-6106 or send an email to help+riverbay@yeselections.com

Shareholders are encouraged to log into the YesElection election portal at Riverbayvotes.com to view the bios and videos, if one was provided, of the 11 certiﬁed candidates. The candidates are Kevin Lambright, Bishop Angelo Rosario, Leslie Peterson, Anika Green-Watson, Keith Logan, Daryl Johnson, Shacara Cudjoe, Idalia Reyes, Grace Solomon, Leah Richardson and Darnell Lopez.

Coverage of the three Candidates’ Forums were provided in the Saturday, May 17; Saturday, June 14, and Saturday, June 21, 2025 issues of the Co-op City Times. In addition, three Election Supplements in which the candidates outlined their qualiﬁcations and platforms to support their candidacy for a position on the Riverbay Board, were printed in the Saturday, May 10; Saturday, May 17; and Saturday, June 14, 2025 issues of the newspaper. All of these back issues of the newspaper are available for review at issuu.com/cctimes or scan the QR code at right.

In addition, with the Riverbay Crawler inaccessible at this time for updating, the ﬁrst Candidates’ Forum can be viewed on the corporation’s YouTube channel at bit.ly/3G4S7rd, or scan the QR code at left. Please check back regularly for addition of the second and third Candidates’ Forums.

“Last year, only about one-third of eligible shareholders voted in the Riverbay Board of Directors election,” said Board Director Monique Coleman, co-chair of the 2025 Election Committee. “Over 6,000 Co-op City residents voted in Tuesday’s New York primary Election, showing what we can achieve when we come together as a commUNITY. Your vote shapes our future, from leadership and services to decisions that affect our everyday lives. Whether you vote by mail, drop it off, or cast it in person, your vote matters. Our strength is in our numbers; Let’s make them count! Vote by July 8.”

Board Director Leah Graham, co-chair of teh Election Committee added: “Please vote. We need you to make quorum. We don’t want to pay for an extension… I want to say thank you to everyone who has voted already, we greatly appreciate it. YesElections said we have already received over 1,000 ballots. We are a self-sustaining corporation and everything that we have, we pay for with our carrying charges, and that includes an extension. This election is not free. And if we don’t have a quorum, we have to pay for an extension. What’s really very important is that you tell your neighbors, tell everyone … to please, please, please participate. The election is our responsibility.”

Riverbay Corporation Ballot Drop Box Locations

voting booth. Photos by Danielle Cruz

DOT –––––– (Continued from page 1) the median and create a school loading area for buses and cars that are dropping off kids. The plan also calls for the sidewalks to be extended to increase the waiting space near the bus stops in the area.

On Baychester Ave., from Donzetti Place to Co-op City Blvd., the plan calls for the already exisiting parking spaces to be extended six inches and for a ﬁve-

Board President Saunders then called for shareholders to rally together and let the DOT local officials know that Co-op City objects to these plans and call for other ways to improve the traffic flow around Education Park that will not negatively impact Co-op City Residents.

“Co-op City was never meant to be open enrollment for the entire Bronx,” said Board President Saunders. “These schools were built for us. Now, I’m not looking to segregate our schools or to not give everybody who wants to come to a better school, a better school. But they need to do a better job of controlling the trafﬁc rather than make Co-op City pay for it.”

inch buffer to be placed on either side of the median, which would remove one lane of trafﬁc in each direction.

The proposed lane conﬁguration for Co-op City Blvd. to Rombouts Ave. also calls for one lane of trafﬁc and the creation of a 10-inch painted pedestrian space on one side. The parking space on one side will also be extended, and a 4-inch buffer will be placed on one side of the median.

On Donizetti Place, the proposed design also calls for only one lane of trafﬁc in each direction and includes removing the angled parking spaces and adding designated school loading zones along the south side sidewalk. A planted concrete median would also be installed in the middle and the parking lane on the north side sidewalk would be extended three inches.

During his presentation to shareholders, Board President Rod Saunders also went into the history of Education Park and shared that during the presentation at CB 10, a comment was made that the architect who built Education Park did not think about the trafﬁc situation when designing it.

“No, that is not correct. He thought about that,” said Board President Saunders. “Originally 66% of the Co-op City school population in Co-op City was to come from Co-op City, and Co-op City was designed in a way where kids could walk to the education park without ever having toå cross a street.”

The remaining 40% of the school population was then supposed to be made up of kids from the surrounding neighborhoods.

The increased inﬂux of students from outside of Co-op City, Board President Saunders surmised, has led to an increase in trafﬁc, as more school buses and cars are entering the area to drop off and pick up students.

“Truman high school and the ED Park was not designed to take on the population that it is currently taking on,” said Board President Saunders.

This has led to a trafﬁc situation that has negatively impacted shareholders living along Baychester Avenue and Donizetti Place.

While Board President Rod Saunders said that the trafﬁc situation does need to be addressed, the DOT’s plan is not what Co-op City shareholders need or want. The plans, he said, will only make the trafﬁc situation worse and impact shareholders trying to travel in that area.

The plan, Board President Saunders said, will also negatively impact emergency service vehicles, making it more difﬁcult for them to maneuver through these areas, especially with planted medians being placed in the middle.

“Now I ask you, having two lanes of parking on the southbound lane of Baychester Avenue, with only one passageway, what would be going wrong? I guarantee you that those of you who are looking to make time to get from Co-op City to the Pelham Bay train station, good luck,” said Board President Saunders.

He explained that one way the DOT and School officials can work to reduce the amount of traffic is by staggering the start and the end times of the schools and having more traffic officers on the street directing traffic.

“We’ve got School Safety offices all over our grounds...but they’re not out on the street,” said Board President Saunders. “They should be on the street. They should have traffic officers out on the street, directing traffic, making sure things don’t get blocked. Do your job and stop making Co-op City shareholders always take it on the chin.”

While the timeline for implementing these proposed changes has not yet been ﬁnalized, the DOT has indicated that work could begin later this year.

Board President Rod Saunders ended his presentation by encouraging Co-op City shareholders to reach out to the DOT and local ofﬁcials to express their opinions about this plan and the impact it will have on shareholders.

Below is the list of local ofﬁcials that shareholders can contact to talk about the Baychester Ave. and Donizetti Place Redesign Plan:

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto

Contact: John Collazzi – Chief of Staff

Email: collazzij@nyassembly.gov and CC: Mckaym@nyassembly.gov

Phone: 718-892-2235

NYC Councilman Kevin Riley

Contact:CynthiaPrisco–DirectorofConstituentServices&LegislativeCoordinator

Address: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 44, 10475

Email: CPrisco@council.nyc.gov and CC: sijones@council.nyc,gov

Phone: 347-326-8652

NYCDOT Bronx Borough Commissioner – Anthony Perez

Email: Aperez3@dot.nyc/dot

Phone: 212-748-6680

Donizetti

Board of Directors’ Meeting - June 25, 2025

SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury

SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, the Procurement department solicited seven (7) qualiﬁed vendors to submit bids for A/E Construction Administration & DOB Filings for the Townhouse project; and WHEREAS, two (2) proposals were received and reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends Architectural Preservation Studio, DPC (APS) as the lowest responsible bidder; and

SUBMITTED BY: Rod

Saunders

SECONDED BY: Anika

Green-Watson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited bids from eleven (11) bidders under Bid # 4144 for A/E Services for Local Law 126 for Garages 1-8; and WHEREAS, the Procurement Department received four (4) bid proposals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager, after reviewing the bids and considering the complexity of the scope of the work required in the garages, recommends awarding two (2) separate contracts for the A/E Services for LL 126 for the garages; and

WHEREAS, Project Manager recommends that contract 4144A be awarded to Tectonic Engineering Consultants, Geologists & Land Surveyors, D.P.C. and Subsidiaries for garages 1 to 4 at a Not to Exceed amount of $451,160.00; and

SUBMITTED BY: Lynette Wright SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, the Procurement department solicited bids from eleven (11) bidders under Bid #4144 for A/E Services for Local Law 126 for Garages 1-8; and WHEREAS, the Procurement Department received four (4) bid proposals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and

WHEREAS, the Project Manager, after reviewing the bids and considering the complexity of the scope of the work required in the garages, recommends awarding two (2) separate contracts for the A/E Services for LL 126 for the garages; and

WHEREAS, Project Manager recommends that contract 4144B be awarded to O & S Associates, Inc. for garages 5 to 8 at a Not to Exceed amount of $434,400.00; 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 # 4166 with Architectural Preservation Studio, DPC (APS) for a not to exceed total of $575,340.00 for 3 years to be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

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 #4144A with Tectonic Engineering Consultants, Geologists & Land Surveyors, D.P.C. and Subsidiaries for garages 1 to 4 at a Not to Exceed amount of $451,160.00, be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

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

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

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.

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 #4144B with O & S Associates, Inc. for Garages 5 to 8 at a Not to Exceed amount of $434,400.00, be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

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

on page 13)

Important Notice to Shareholders of Bldg. 1 & Earhart Lane T’Houses

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.

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 Coop City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

Outdoor Special Event Policing

By SGT. JOSEPH VARGAS

On Saturday, June 21st, on Carver Loop between Casals Place and Cooper Place, Co-op City closed down the entire street to vehicular traffic making room for the Co-op City “Summer Fun Day.” Many groups, organizations and Co-op City residents came together, creating a day of fun for all neighbors and family members and joining in the festivities was the Co-op City Public Safety Department.

Much like the NYPD Community Affairs Unit for the City of New York, CCPD participates in Riverbay special events, seizing the opportunity to connect with shareholders and ensure order and safety.

The event began at 12 p.m. and lasted until 5 p.m., but officers arrived at 7 a.m. to help with setup and to map out the area for safety. CCPD adjusted shift times and dates for many of its newest members and veteran officers, designating over a dozen law enforcement officers, apart from regular patrol, who would be assigned exclusively to the event. CCPD officers began their morning conducting traffic enforcement and redirection, clearing the streets for set-up. Officers also transported and set up event barricades to set the stage for vendors.

The event included live music, entertainment, food, a drill team, games, children play areas and cotton candy. There were also shaded cooling areas and tents, playgrounds and even courts for our youth to participate in athletics.

Alert: Graffiti vandalism

If you witness anyone tagging or spraying graffiti on Co-op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at 718-6713050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety.

CCPD officers, while patrolling and monitoring everyone’s safety, also found themselves enjoying the company of Co-op City shareholders and participating in the fun.

CCPD also assigned an Emergency Services Unit truck with EMTs to the event to be readily available in case of a heat emergency.

The event ended in great success; Co-op City officers enjoyed community policing and were available for the Co-op City community to meet and greet them.

Although the Section 5 Fun Day was postponed, Co-op City Public Safety looks forward to joining the community in many outdoor, fun activities throughout the summer.

In anticipation of the many events planned during the warm months, Co-op City shareholders and visitors are urged to look out for “No Parking” flyers and notices posted alongside the streets reserved for special events. The No Parking signs are posted several days in advance and include the no parking date and times.

Currently, CCPD is gearing up for the Independence Day fireworks celebration. Our department has grown exponentially in comparison to previous Independence Day celebrations, and we intend to have just about every boot on the ground for this annual event. We cannot wait to see you there!

Responsible Use of eScooters

If you rent an eScooter, be sure to leave it in a location that does not interfere with pedestrians’ access to sidewalks and walkways. Be considerate and responsible. Return eScooters to a docking area or place it off of sidewalks and walkways to ensure pedestrian safety.

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbaycorp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com. Please note: emails should be sent to both parties.

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see below for speciﬁc directions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunities, please visit these following sites:

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Director’s Viewpoint Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

The Case for Convector Replacement

As we all know too well by now, during A/C season, we get convector system flooding that ruins flooring and costs us millions each year. Most of the time – 90% of the time – a leak is caused by a drip pan overflowing because a drainpipe got clogged.

during

We have $42 million to spend on convector leak mitigation which cannot be spent for any other purpose. But it can be spent on different approaches: convector replacement; early-warning moisture sensor alarms; a combination of the two; or, according to one cooperator, 65,000 bigger buckets.

I am very much in favor of replacing the living room convectors to get at least one fourth of our problematic convectors under control. More than 16,800 fewer chances of a coil break or a blocked drainpipe? I’ll take it!

Whoa What about that 15,000+ number?

In addition to the ones in our living rooms, aging lobby, foyer, basement, community center, and professional and staff ofﬁce convectors are also being eyed for replacement.

But what about the remaining 40,000 rusty convectors?

Unless Governor Kathy Hochul gives us an extra $120 million – for starters – to pay for our leaky woes, there is, in my opinion, just one option. I’ll save –The Case for the Installation of Programmable Moisture Sensors in Fiscally Irreplaceable Problematic Convectors – for next time, but for now, back to convector replacement.

Here's the story.

Somebody really should send Rochdale Village a mufﬁn basket.

A year and a half ago, at Rochdale Village's 60th anniversary party, I wound up talking with the guy who had the contract to replace the complex’s 21,000 convectors.

At the time, I only knew that Rochdale Village – our sister Mitchell-Lama development – had a problem in common with Co-op City: our convectors were old, leaky, headaches for our cooperators and our bottom lines.

Two years into the rocky Rochdale project, Con-

vector Guy was excited to make a connection with Co-op City – the slightly younger but much bigger big sister.

Why rocky? The installation had been plagued with a less than ideal, long-gone distributor and ﬁerce supply chain problems. Only now is the project nearing the half-way mark, because, along the way, before the long-gone distributor was shown the door, Rochdale was faced with an unexpected setback.

A freeze protection feature needed to be added to the already-installed units with their leak-preventing, thermostat-controlled, automatic shut-off valves.

Turns out, automatic shut-off valves – which are great for saving energy and money in any season –can work too well in the winter. When the heating season set-point is reached, the thermostat's job is to trigger the automatic shut-off valve to completely stop water from ﬂowing through the convector. But when the inside temperature is cozy, it can still be freezing outside. You’ve got to keep some water ﬂow so the pipes don’t freeze. Rochdale learned that lesson the hard way, to the tune of a $1.7 million change order.

And that's just one of the things we have to thank Rochdale for – that freeze protection feature now comes standard on the Aria convectors, so our test samples in our Bldg. 14 pilot program made it through the winter just ﬁne.

When Convector Guy and I ﬁrst started talking, I was talking apples and he was talking oranges. I was all insistent that his brand new convectors needed moisture sensors for when they were no longer brand new. I told him he was thinking 25 years and we wanted 50 leak-free years.

I didn’t know what the heck I was talking about. I didn't know that it was the Rochdale convectors’ automatic shutoff valves that prevented the leaks. I'd never heard of automatic shutoff valves. So, I persisted and here we are with 32 test-pilot convectors that have those features and moisture sensors. Redundant? Perhaps. But what’s wrong with redundancy, says the guy wearing suspenders and a belt.

Anyway, if we follow through on the replace-

ment plan, what else would we get for our buck besides leak-free convector convenience? Individually, a just right living room temperature, but as a community we’d save millions each year by not having to clean up after all those extra – potential and unnecessary – 16,800 leaks.

But wait! There’s more!

Once an expert (aka a PE – a Professional Engineer) crunches the thermal numbers, we’ll know how much more we’ll save. Rochdale is calculated to save $1.4M annually from the convectors’ special energy-saving fans alone. That number would be a bit less for us because we’re looking at fewer units. But once we know the thermal numbers, we’ll know how much more we could save in reduced fuel purchases. Maybe we could save millions more in ﬁnes by sticking to our 2035 decarbonization goals.

Save the planet to boot? Win-win-win!

*Riverbay Elections* Didja vote yet? Just follow the directions on the ballot inside the green envelope you received in the mail about two weeks ago. Fill it out, seal it inside the Secret Ballot Envelope, and seal that one inside the postage-paid return envelope. Then pop it in the mail or into a special Drop Box located in one of the community centers.

If needed, you’ve got one more chance to get in-person help to complete and cast your ballot TODAY, Saturday, June 28. Just bring yourself and your ID to the Bartow Administrative Ofﬁce between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Already voted? Great! Now go pester your neighbors. Ask ‘em, Didja vote yet?

Smart Curbs. Help spread the word. We need fewer double-parked cars and easier drop-off and pick-up space. Let’s make Co-op City a Smart Curbs neighborhood for everyone’s beneﬁt including our neighbors with disabilities.

D&A corner. The last meeting of the season for the Disability and Accommodations Committee has been moved up a week. All are welcome to join the Zoom this coming Monday, June 30, at 7 p.m., for the wrap up. Email, text, or call for the details. Have a good week, everybody; MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211.

Co-op City Times Photo Submissions

Shareholders, if you have a graduate or a student who excelled this past school year, let us know so their accomplishments can be shared with your neighbors. Send your submissions to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or call us at 718-320-3300, x3375/7.

When submitting club articles with pictures to the Co-op City Times, please DO NOT EMBED picture/s in your Word document. Rather, send the picture/s as an separate 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.

Open Board ––––––

(Continued from page 1)

The Gallery Session followed. Five shareholders signed up and were called to the microphone to address their questions to the Board and Management.

Cheryl Martin asked about the Riverbay data security incident saying that she received a letter from Riverbay about the incident and steps that should be taken to monitor and protect her ﬁnances. She wanted to know how far back the incident extends and if former shareholders who moved out of the community but whose information may have been compromised will also be notiﬁed. Ms. Martin also asked if Co-op City would be affected by the Propel NY Energy plan to enhance and upgrade parts of the electric transmission network in areas of Long Island, New York City and Westchester County to support delivery of more clean energy to the electric grid, and if the ballot boxes where shareholders can drop their completed ballots for the Riverbay Board election will be available after [June] 28th.

Co-chair of the 2025 Election Committee, Board Director Monique Coleman, conﬁrmed that ballot boxes will be available after June 28, and until quorum is achieved. Throughout the meeting, both election co-chairs, Board Director Coleman and Board Director Leah Graham, announced updates on the Board election and encouraged shareholders to cast their ballots as soon as possible to make the quorum.

Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton responded to Ms. Martin’s ﬁrst question regarding the cyber security incident.

“As I said to you last month … we’re required, if we suspect that any information could have been penetrated during that incident, we have yet to determine, and I stated to you last month, that we’re going to take the best precautionary measures for our shareholders, applicants, and our employees. And we sent those letters.

“We’re also required to do what they call a substitute notice that’s placed on the Co-op City website. So any cooperators who are listed on the income afﬁdavit will not receive a letter, but they can go to the Co-op City website and get the same notice that every shareholder we have of record received, and we went way back as far as we possibly could, and we sent those letters out. “So everyone who may have been impacted, we were required to notice. And we had two forms of notice. A letter was sent to those that we have addresses on record for, and we were required to post it on our website.”

Mr. Walton also advised shareholders who may have a relative or former neighbor who has moved out to the development, to let them know to visit the landing page on the Co-op City website at www.coopcity.com and click on the link to read the notice about the data security incident which includes the number to the dedicated call center handling the incident on Riverbay’s behalf.

Egan Anders, director of the Co-op City Power Pant, answered Ms. Martin’s question on Propel NY Energy. He explained that Proper NY Energy is a transmission plan connecting green resources with places like New York City and Westchester and other areas.

“That does not directly impact us; that is the power that can be brought to this area, so, no, we’re not impacted at all,” said Mr. Anders.

Ms. Martin followed up, asking if Co-op City could be impacted indirectly, and Mr. Anders said yes, since Co-op City purchases energy from ConEd from time to time, if ConEd is bringing cleaner energy to this area to be sold on the networks, Co-op City could potential buy that cleaner energy, or, if the plan improves ConEd’s reliability, then Co-op City too would be more reliable.

Reginald Mabry referenced a video that’s circulating on the internet regarding an incident that he said transpired on Saturday, June 21, in a Co-op City stairway between a CCPD ofﬁcer and an individual and asked for a full investigation. He also asked about a personal matter before the corporation and objected to the amount of time it was taking so that he can resolve the matter, adding that he would leave another complaint with the Board ofﬁce.

Board President Saunders advised Mr. Mabry to speak to the representative of CCPD who was present at the meeting to make a formal complaint about the incident he spoke about.

On the second matter, Board Director Lynette Wright conﬁrmed there are two Board resolutions pertinent to his case. On the second matter, Board President Saunders said that he continues not to be involved in Mr. Mabry’s case because complaints before the Cooperator Appeals Committee are conﬁdential and no other Board directors are privy to the details except for the members of the Committee. Mr. Mabry took exception with the Board president’s answer, arguing that it was arbitrary.

Antonio Codrington spoke about convector leaks and installation of smart water sensors to help mitigate those leaks and subsequent water damage to ﬂoors. Mr. Codrington said that he installed smart water sensors in his apartment which send a notiﬁcation when a leak is detected to a smart phone or other smart device, no matter your location, as long as you are connected to the internet. A family member or trusted neighbor can then be contacted to go into your apartment and address the situation. He said the Board may want to form an ad hoc committee to assess cost effectiveness and expressed his

willingness to serve on such a committee.

Board President Saunders said that in 2022, then-Board Director Claudia Sampson told shareholders about smart water sensors at a Board meeting. The issue, he added, was that, should Riverbay Corporation provide the devices, then Co-op City, meaning Management, would respond to the leaks.

“And the answer is, we have a better idea,” said Board President Saunders. “We just do not have enough money to fund it.”

Board President Saunders explained that with the current convector pilot initiative that Management is currently vetting, convectors being tested not only detect the leak, “but it does one better,” said Mr. Saunders. “It shuts the water off. So not only do you know that the leaks are happening, but you know that there’s no further water coming into your home… the problem is that we do not have enough money to invest in 64,000 [convectors]. If we were to hook this up to our system and you were to have 1,200 leaks going off, as we had in one day, we would then be responsible for trying to respond to 1,200 leaks, which is not really possible.”

Board President Saunders said that if shareholders want to go the route of having a detection system, then that could be a personal investment choice.

Mr. Codrington shared that his family has saved a lot of money personally for their $100 investment and offered to share information with other shareholders interested in learning more about the product he purchased.

Board Director Bernard Cylich, chair of the Power Plant, Restorations and Construction Committee, offered that there is a committee, the Construction Committee, that has been discussing this matter which resulted in the water sensor proposal.

“This is not an individual problem, because it costs Riverbay $7 million a year to repair all those ﬂooding so it’s not an individual problem, it is a Co-op City problem and we’re trying to ﬁnd a solution to it.”

Director Cylich said that the Management convector pilot addresses only one of the convectors in the apartment (living room) but there are also at least four other convectors that are not protected. Hence, the Construction Committee’s proposed solution to have Management do a feasibility study to determine cost to the corporation to install water sensors under every convector.

“We need some preventive measures to prevent those leaks, and not Management running all the time to turn off a ﬁre when it’s already there,” said Director Cylich. “So that’s the answer to that. And we attempted to bring this proposal to the Board for a simple feasibility study. And of course, for Management to come back and tell us how it is possible to do that.”

In his response, Board President Saunders repeated that several summers ago, there was one extremely hot day when the corporation received over 1,200 calls for flooding in the community. “We do not have the manpower to respond to 1,200 units reporting there’s a flood,” he stressed. “Which means that whatever problem you would have, you will still have it. We can’t get there. You don’t need to be in the building to understand that you can’t give us 1,200 leaks in a day. You can’t do it. Having said that, I do believe that it makes sense, as Mr. Codrington just pointed out, for you to know that it’s happening, so that if you need to get home, and you need to get back from wherever you are or if someone has a key to your apartment, then they need to get in there, and they need to shut it down; I say, fine. I would invite every shareholder to get in contact with Mr. Codrington … and find out what device he has. (Continued on page 10)

Open Board ––––––

I think that’s an excellent idea, but to ask Management to do that, I don’t need a feasibility to know that our general manager cannot send out, cannot take care of 1,200 calls; it cannot be done.”

Deborah Thomas reported that her vehicle was stolen and driven out of a garage where she had parked. She said that she is also aware of other vehicles that were driven out as well. Mås. Thomas wanted to know what type of security measures are in place to prevent vehicles from being driven out of the garages.

Board President Saunders empathized with Ms. Thomas on the loss of her vehicle which she said she had just ﬁnished paying for. He added that he has been a cooperator since 1977, and back then, there was a small room at the garage entrance which served as security. There were no electronic arms that went up and down as vehicles entered and exited the garages. Mr. Saunders recalled that probably in the late 1980’s, as many as 14 vehicles were stolen out of one garage.

He reported that there is a weekly meeting held among the Board president and ﬁrst and second vice presidents of the Board and EGM Walton, and this matter will be discussed to see if there are any additional available options that the corporation can take advantage of. Board President Saunders advised shareholders to install anti-theft devices on their vehicles to help protect their property while parked in the garages.

Ms. Thomas also asked about the gas outage in the C-line of Building 5.

EGM Walton explained that any time a gas leak is detected, ConEd shuts down the gas and before they restore service, Riverbay has to bring everything on the line up to current code. He then turned the microphone over to Toma Kastrati from Maintenance to give an update on the work being done in Building 5-C line.

Mr. Kastrati said that permits have been pulled and 95% of the work has been completed with access to only four apartments remaining. “So we’ll go over the corrections to the current building code and then we’ll start to test the risers to see if there’re any leaks,” he said. “The lead issue that started in the shareholder’s apartment has been repaired so once we get into these four apartments, we’ll be able to test and that will be completed by Friday and then if everything is working ﬁne, we’ll start with the process of getting to the Department of Buildings and getting clearance.”

Mr. Kastrati said that it takes usually anywhere from 30 days to one and half to two months to get these types of gas leaks resolved.

Board President Saunders praised the work that Co-op City Management does on these conditions, pointing out that it is often reported in the news that gas leaks in other city buildings take anywhere from 6 months, 10 months, over a year, in some instances, to be resolved. “Here in Co-op City, our staff does a magniﬁcent job. They are on it. We’re the best in the country. We’re the best at what we do …”

Sylvia Williams, a shareholder in Building 4, asked for an update on the gas outage in her building. “It’s been two months,” she said.

Board President Saunders informed the community that the Board was addressing a resolution that night for Building 4. He said that the gas leak in Building 4 occurred because of Local Law 152 mandated by the city for gas lines to be tested, and in this particular case, the leak was not in the line, but in the basement coming into the building and so gas had to be shut down. He said the repairs will cost shareholders $1.8 million, although this was not shareholders’ fault. Mr. Saunders also said that no other team could have gotten into 500 apartments in the short amount of time that it took Riverbay’s personnel and thanked shareholders for their cooperation.

Executive GM Walton informed Ms. Williams that there are biweekly update meetings with shareholders in Building 4, and information is also placed under doors to keep residents of the building updated on the progress of repairs.

“As the president said, we got into 500 apartments in two weeks, unbelievable,” said Mr. Walton. “And you can’t do that if the shareholders are not being participatory. There were a handful that we had to drill out but that’s a part of the process, because we can’t let those that stand in the way prevent us from making progress. So we’re making tremendous strides.”

EGM Walton yielded to Mr. Kastrati who explained that 14 risers have been addressed and work is being done on the remaining six as well as in the basements. Inspections are being prepped for the 14 lines that are holding, while ﬁnishing up the basement and work is ongoing on three lines which hopefully

will be completed in the next week and a half to two weeks which should bring the project up closer to completion. He added that work will start on the B & C lines next.

Primary Election Results

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City wrapped up the 2025 primary election cycle on Tuesday, June 24.

Below are the results for this year’s primary election:

Democratic Party Mayor:

1. Zohran Mamdani - 43.51%

2. Andrew Cuomo - 36.42%

3. Brad Lander - 11.31%

Public Advocate:

1. Jumaane D. Williams - 71.33%

2. Jenifer Rajkumar - 18.68%

3. Marty Dolan - 9.38%

City Comptroller:

1. Mark D. Levine - 48.09%

2. Justin Brannan - 33.54%

3. Ismael Malave Perez - 10.19%

District Attorney:

1. Alvin L. Bragg Jr. - 73.35%

2. Patrick John Timmons - 26.31%

Judge of the Civil Court (Bronx County):

1. Shekera Anessa Algarin - 56.84%

2. George M. Santana - 42.77%

Bronx Borough President:

1. Vanessa L. Gibson - 68.47%

2. Rafael Salamanca Jr. - 31.08%

City Council Member for the 12th City Council District:

1. Kevin C. Riley - 75.51%

2. Andy King - 23.85%

Republican Party

City Comptroller:

1. Peter Kefalas - 61.25%

2. Danniel Maio - 33.01%

This month’s primary utilized Ranked Choice Voting, a system which New Yorkers approved in 2019.

Ranked choice voting is a system designed to give voters more of a voice in deciding their elected public ofﬁcials so that the winner of an election is a candidate with a majority of votes.

Voters rank up to as many as ﬁve candidates per ballot in order of their preference from one through ﬁve.

Voters must fully bubble in their ﬁrst-choice candidate in the ﬁrst column, and then bubble in the remaining columns with their following preferences. Voters do not have to choose the maximum number of candidates on their ballot.

If a voter has only a ﬁrst-choice candidate and ﬁlls in the bubbles in the remaining columns with that same candidate, their vote will only count once, as explained on New York City Board of Elections’ website.

Once the votes are tallied, if one choice gets over 50% of the votes, meaning that the majority of voters picked them as their ﬁrst-choice, that candidate will then be the winner.

If there is no clear number one choice with a majority of votes, then the candidate with the least number of votes is eliminated. The process continues until one candidate holds the majority. Should a voter’s number one choice be eliminated ﬁrst, their vote would then automatically apply to their second choice. With a ranked choice voting system, a ballot is no longer useless if the voter’s preferred candidate did not win. Instead, their vote can now be redistributed to the next candidate of their preference.

Looking ahead to the fall, the General Election will take place on November 4.

Voters rank up to as many as ﬁve candidates per ballot in order of their preference from one through ﬁve.

If a voter has only a ﬁrst-choice candidate and ﬁlls in the bubbles in the remaining columns with that same candidate, their vote will only count

The Board then started its Business meeting with Roll Call, followed by approval of the Agenda, Management Report by EGM Walton (see page 1) and voting on resolutions (see page 6) Co-op City is Your Home!

Get involved with your building association, join a Board Committee and/or community group, or write a Letter to the Editor about quality of life concerns!

Resolutions –––––

(Continued from page 6)

Second Reading - Resolution #25-26

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, on March 8, 2023, Riverbay’s Board of Directors passed Resolution 23-15 for contract # 3850 with Spec Living Inc. for the purchasing 9X9 wood floor tiles that are installed in occupied apartments at a value of $1,800,000; and

WHEREAS, to date, expenditure under this contract totaled over $1 million dollars. This situation is partially attributed to the implementation of new flooring initiatives; and

WHEREAS, this 9 x 9 wood floor tile material continues to be utilized to make partial repairs, and Spec Living has inventory of the flooring remaining in their inventory; and

WHEREAS, the Project manager recommends a change order to extend contract #3850 for one year at the existing price for the 9 x 9 wood floor tiles to

Second Reading - Resolution #25-27

SUBMITTED BY: Anika Gren-Watson

SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, on March 8, 2023, Riverbay’s Board of Directors passed Resolution 23-14 for contract #3849 with Mohawk Industries (a.k.a. Mohawk Carpet Distribution LLC) for the purchasing of Mohawk flooring materials installed in vacant and occupied apartments at a value of $6,400,000; and WHEREAS, to date, expenditures for this contract is substantially below the contracted value. This is partially attributed to the implementation of new flooring initiatives; and

WHEREAS, the Mohawk Revwood flooring product is the new updated flooring product installed in vacant and occupied apartments since 2021, and which the Restoration Department recommends the continuation of utilizing this flooring product; and

WHEREAS the Project manager recommends a change order to extend (time only) contract #3849 for one-year at the existing price (provided below) for the Mohawk flooring products and utilizing the remaining contract value; and Flooring Product

Mohawk Price

Second Reading - Resolution #25-29

SUBMITTED BY: Lynette Wright

SECONDED BY: Mary Pearson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, this is a contract request for Phase II of the upgrade of the T3000 control system in the Power Plant, which is for a new additional Input /Output (I/O) cabinet; and WHEREAS, the I/O cabinet will allow the control system to see and/or control more equipment and is expected to last for 20 years; 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, the proposed contract #4187A with Siemens Energy for a cost of $52,349.00 plus tax be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

MetroCard Bus

The MetroCard Bus visits Co-op City every first and third Thursday of the month. The bus only makes one stop in Co-op City: between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. by the Bartow Mall on Co-op City Boulevard.

Some services offered by the bus are:

•Help with reduced-fare applications

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

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

•Report a lost/stolen reduced-fare MetroCard

•Help with any MetroCard-related issues

• See the Riverbay Crawler for the Dreiser and Einstein schedule. For more MetroCard information, please visit new.mta.info/fares.

enable the consumption of the remaining inventory and utilizing the remaining funds allocated for the contract; and

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED, that the proposed change order# 1 to extend contract # 3850 with Spec Living Inc. for one year at the existing price for the remaining inventory, and permit utilization of the remaining funds within the contract be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

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

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

PASSED

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED, that the proposed change order# 1 to extend contract # 3849 with Mohawk Industries (a.k.a. Mohawk Carpet Distribution LLC) for one year at the existing price (provided below) for the Mohawk flooring products and permit utilization of the remaining contract value be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

Flooring Product

Rev-wood Flooring

Mohawk Price

$1.93 per sq. ft.

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

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

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

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

NO: Johnson

ABSTAIN: Smith

PASSED

(Continued on page 14)

Resolutions ––––– (Continued from page 11)

Second Reading – Resolution #25-30

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Leah Richardson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, on June 4, 2025, the Board of Directors approved Resolution 25-21 for Contract #4194 for Emergency Gas Repairs at Building 4 with Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Contracting Corporation in the total amount of $1,072,418.75 including labor, materials, and sales tax; and WHEREAS, the initial gas repair work under this contract is almost complete, eleven (11) risers failed the integrity test and the leaks must be addressed in order to have the gas restored in the building. Additional funds are required to cover the cost of replacing the complete overhead gas piping in the basement to address the work that needs to be performed on the risers that failed the integrity test as well as unforeseen leaks that may be discovered; and WHEREAS, the Maintenance department is requesting a change order in the amount of $650,000 plus applicable taxes for contract 4194 – Emergency Gas Repairs Building 4 with Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Contracting

SUBMITTED BY: Leah Richardson

SECONDED BY: Kyshawn White

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order # 1 for additional funds in the amount of $650,000 plus applicable taxes to be added to Contract # 4194 – Emergency Gas Repairs at Building 4 with Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Contracting Corporation be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

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

Emergency Resolution #25-31 Insurance Resolution #25-32

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2025, the Procurement department executed Contract #4138 for Emergency Plumbing & Gas Repairs on an as needed basis in the amount of $240,000 with Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Contracting Corporation (Express Plumbing); and WHEREAS, as a result of Local Law 152 – Periodic Inspection of Gas Piping Systems, the contract value was quickly depleted due to gas leaks in both Building 9 and Building 25; and WHEREAS, due to additional leaks detected in Building 15A E-line, the Maintenance department requests approval of Change Order One (1) for additional funds in the amount of $100,165.00, this includes taxes to be added to contract # 4138 – Emergency Plumbing & Gas Repairs to cover the cost of the necessary repairs; and

SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman

SECONDED BY: Leah Graham

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: Dated June 25th, 2025

WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Executed Blended Liability Policy consisting of the Directors & Officers Policy, Employment Practices Liability Policy and Fiduciary Liability Policy, and the Directors and Officers (D&O) Side “A” Excess Difference in Conditions (DIC) Policy both expire June 30, 2025, and WHEREAS, the expiring Executed Blended Liability Policy ($5 Million Aggregate Limit for each policy) was with Munich Re for a premium of $124,500.00 and the expiring D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy (Single $5 Million Aggregate Limit) was with Allianz for a premium of $30,000.00 for a total combined premium of $154,500.00 and WHEREAS, the director of Riverbay’s Risk Management, after instructing NFP, Riverbay’s Executed Blended Liability and Directors & Officers Side “A” Excess DIC policies insurance broker, to conduct a marketing program promoting Riverbay’s improved loss history over the past five (5) years, recommends placing the Executed Blended Liability Policy with Palomar for a renewal premium of $121,513.00 and placing the D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy with Allianz for a renewal premium of $30,000.00 for a combined total premium of $151,513.00, a premium decrease of $2,987.00 (1.93%) for the renewal policy period 6/30/25 to 6/30/26.

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, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves placing the Executed Blended Liability Policy with Palomar for a renewal premium of $121,513.00 and placing the D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy with Argonaut Insurance Company for a renewal premium of $30,000.00 as submitted by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and #20-19; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

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

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order # 1 for additional funds in the amount of $100,165.00, this includes taxes be added to Contract # 4138 – Emergency Plumbing & Gas Repairs on an as needed basis with Express Plumbing Sewer and Water Main Contracting Corporation be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

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

NO: Johnson PASSED

Co-op City Scholarships Awarded to Three Outstanding Applicants

The winners of the Co-op City Scholarship, each worth $1,000, were celebrated at an awards ceremony on Saturday, June 21, in the Dreiser Center.

Carlos Santana, Eric Isaiah Lunsford and Chisom Eke are the recipients of the coveted scholarships. Each student also received a certificate.

The 2025 Co-op City Scholarship program was sponsored by New York State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, US Congressman George Latimer and Mrs. Theresa M. Smith, widow of the late Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, Jr., in whose memory the 2025 awards are named. Rev. Dr. Smith was a longtime Co-op City shareholder, author and well-respected pastor in the community who passed away on September 15, 2024.

“Dr. Robert A. Smith, Jr., was an avid reader; education was very important to him,” said Mrs. Smith. “He fell in love with school and achieved higher educational goals when he entered Fairfield University in Connecticut. The smell of a book in the library was intoxicating to him.”

Assemblyman Benedetto, who has been the prime facilitator of the annual Co-op City Scholarship program, presented Mr. Santana with his scholarship award and certificate.

“It is one of the best parts of my job – encouraging students to become fine scholars. I am happy to be a sponsor of this year’s scholarship,” Assemblyman Benedetto said.

Congressman Latimer presented to Ms. Eke. He also congratulated all of the scholarship winners in his remarks

Co-op City Creatives: Michael Colon

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Local writer Michael Colon has contributed to Co-op Creatives several times over the years. His poems, “These are the Days” and “Ecstasy and Solace in Rhythm,” as well as his 2024 science fiction, “The Gift from Aelius,” demonstrate his skill as an interdisciplinary writer. However, he pushed himself even further as an author with the publication of his most recent novel, “The Greatest Comic Book Tale Ever Told.”

The story’s protagonist, Sonny, who lives in the fictional city of Irontown, uses comic books as an escape from his material realities. Colon blurs the lines between fact and fiction as Sonny’s world of heroes, villains, and spectors seems as real as the precarity, grief, and growing pains in the character’s life. The theme of choices seems ubiquitous as the character looks for strength on his path to identification with heroes and villains.

The author draws indirectly from his personal experiences to craft the story. For example, Sonny’s foster parent was inspired by Colon’s single parent and the book’s District 7—a slum in a prosperous city—was inspired by parts of the Bronx. Though only published in June, this was his first book manuscript. Other projects and responsibilities drew him away from it in the last 4 years, however, releasing “The Gift from Aelius” allowed him to return to Sonny’s story.

“I never really forgot about it, it was always in the back of my mind,” Mr. Colon said. “Life kind of happens, we have other priorities [but] it didn’t feel right to leave it in limbo.”

This deeply psychological young adult urban fantasy included lessons for both the author and the reader. Colon says that his mastery of pacing, dialogue, temporality, story structure, and embedded narrative was deepened through creative writing. The major take away from the story, Mr. Colon said, is that “if you strive to be the best person you can be, that makes you the hero of your own story. You can rewrite a story that's been written for you.”

Finally, he encourages authors to continue their exploration of their craft even after publication. He believes inspiration should be nurtured continuously. Colon expects to release the sequel to his first book this year, and intends to use Medium.com and Substack to publish short stories in the future.

and praised their efforts to give back to their community.

“It was an honor to present Co-op City Scholarships in honor of Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, Jr. to Carlos, Eric-Isaiah and Chisom,” said Congressman Latimer. “They have demonstrated educational success and are committed to making the Co-op City community better through volunteering. I wish all three the best of luck pursuing secondary education and I thank my friend, Assembly Member Benedetto, for working with me on this scholarship.”

Mrs. Smith presented to Mr. Lunsford. Addressing the scholarship winners, she said: “Dr. Smith would be so proud of you – a pediatric diabetes doctor, a mathematician, and a filmmaker/producer. Success is not about how much money you make; it is about the passion for your craft, how you wake up and go to sleep thinking about it, and focus on your studies. On behalf of Dr. Smith, I congratulate you on your success!”

This year, the Co-op City Scholarship Committee, chaired by Linda Collins, reviewed the applications of 13 high school seniors – all outstanding students.

“It was my honor to participate in the scholarship application review process,” said Ms. Collins. “I learned so much about the next generation to whom we will hand over the future. They are brilliant, enthusiastic, curious, and determined. I am confident they will make the world a better place.”

The other members of the 2025 Scholarship Committee were Helen Atkins, Sonia Feliciano, Deborah Henry and Julesa Grimes.

The Co-op City Scholarship has awarded approximately 50 scholarships to deserving Co-op City students since its inception in 2011.

Email sgreen@ riverbaycorp.com for our affordable rates.

SECTION 2 SUMMER

Section 2 Summer Fun Day was held on Saturday, June 21. Above are some of the scenes captured during the day. The first 50 youth to arrive, were given free T-shirts. The program opened with Co-op City’s American Legion Post 1871’s Honor Guard presentation. There was an array of vendors, archery,

JUNETEENTH

CELEBRATION

The African-American Association of Co-op City hosted a Juneteenth Celebration on Sunday, June 22, in the Dreiser Auditorium. The event featured keynote speaker Dr. Kaba Hiawatha Kamene. Entertainment, refreshments and music by DJ Doctor Rock highlighted the celebration.

Congratulations, Marie Njie-Mitchell!

Congratulations to June 2025 Graduate: Marie Njie-Mitchell. Marie Njie-Mitchell received her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Touro University. She also received a prestigious award for being the most outstanding student both academically and in clinical skills for her field of study (OT). She was one of 12 students out of over 500 graduates chosen for this award. (One student from each program, i.e., Nursing, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Clinical Psychology, etc.) Her family, friends and neighbors are very proud of her!

—Francine Reva Jones

Congratulations, Santana Perez!

Congratulations to June 2025 Graduate, Santana Perez. Santana Perez is a graduate of Talent Academy. She earned a scholarship to Buffalo State University where she will study nursing. Her family, friends, and neighbors are very proud of her!

—Francine Reva Jones

FUN DAY!

carnival games, Name that Tune and a Salsa contest. Throughout the day, there were free cotton candy and hot dogs, while supplies lasted. Music was provided by DJ

Sid, Juan Ortega, and City South Steel Band.

Photos by Edmund Duncan

TEAM UNITY – ELECT ALL 5!

Hoops In The Sun

Did you Know?

Tom Bradley (1917-1998) was the first Black mayor of Los Angeles elected in 1973. He held that office for 20 years and was the first liberal mayor in that city. In 1993, a survey of a panel of historians, political scientists and urban experts ranked Tom Bradley as one of the best mayors in the United States since 1960. His spoken inspiration was, “Never give up. Keep your thoughts and your mind always on the goal.”

—Hattie Overman

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

Building 10 Association

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

Ice Cream Social – Today, Saturday, June 28, from 2 p.m.-4 p.m., the Building 10 Association will host an Ice Cream Social event in the Bldg.10 Association Room (rear lobby of Bldg. 10B). Come out and meet your neighbors. This event is for all Bldg.10 residents, children and adults.

Riverbay Board of Directors Annual Election – The annual election cycle for the Riverbay Board of Directors had begun. Be on the lookout for your ballot in the mail. Please vote so that we will have a quorum on July 8. If a quorum is not reached , the voting will be extended and the money comes out of our pocket because we are Riverbay. “Co-op CommUNITY.” Let your voice be heard. Vote! Let us do this Building 10!

Section 2 Summer Fun Day – A great time was had by all at Summer Fun Day 2025. Special thanks to the Summer Fun Day Committee and all volunteers. Looking forward to next year. Hope to see you there.

Building 10 Association Dues – The collection of building association dues for 2025 has begun. Building association dues are $10 per apartment. Please note, the money collected is used for association-related expenses, i.e. flyers, meeting and party supplies, holiday lobby decorations and refreshments etc.

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

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City

Public Safety at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718-8796311.

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.

Congratulations – Congratulations to the class of 2025! Your hard work and perseverance have paid off.

Deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Mary Lawrence, formerly from Building 10B. Please keep her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. 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.

“Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.” – Langston Hughes

Have a great week.

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Building 13 Association

Section 2’s Summer Fun Day: A Joyous Celebration of Community

This past Saturday, Section 2 came alive with music, laughter and vibrant energy during our annual Summer Fun Day event! The day was a true reflection of the community spirit that defines Co-op City — intergenerational fun, neighbors of all ages coming together, to enjoy the beautiful day bestowed upon us. This was a true representation of community spirit and summer joy.

From the start of the festivities to the final notes of music echoing down the street, the atmosphere was one of unity, joy and celebration. Cooperators of all ages enjoyed delicious food, exciting games, upbeat music, and engaging activities, all made possible by the tireless work of our dedicated committee and the generous support of our sponsors and partners.

We want to take this opportunity to thank every vendor, every committee member, and every participant for showing up and showing out.

This day would not have been possible without the leadership and collaboration of our building presidents and representatives:

• Debs Place Townhouse president – Jacqueline Mason

• Building 9 – Linda Collins

• Building 10 – Jewel Crawford Duncan

• Building 11 – Deborah Henry

• Building 12 – Tanya Clarke-Ingram

• Building 14 – Josie Ferguson

• Building 13

• Cooper Place Townhouse

And our dynamic committee members who helped plan, coordinate and execute this amazing event: Denise Shelley, Valerie Gunn, Tiny Wood, Tracy Ed-

wards-Overton, Tasha Watson, Edmund Duncan and, of course, DJ Sid Watson. Their dedication and teamwork were the driving force behind every smile we saw that day.

We also extend our sincere gratitude to the Riverbay Corporation Community Relations Department, CCPD, NYPD, and the FDNY CPR Trainers; their presence helped ensure a safe and fun environment for everyone.

A celebration like this would not be complete without unforgettable entertainment. Thank you to Hidden Gems Archery; DJ Sid Nice, who always does a fantastic job; Juan Ortega, our one-man salsa band; and the lively City South Steel Band, whose steel pan rhythms gave our event that Caribbean flavor we all loved. Congratulations to our winners: Salsa Contest: Robert E. and Aida Gonzalez; Name That Tune: Reggie Bennett and Angela Gil, and Best Decorated Table: first place was Akeisha Neely and second place was Angela Gil.

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our elected officials and sponsors. We are incredibly grateful to: Councilman Kevin Riley and DYCD, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Congressman George Latimer, Attorney Stephen B. Kaufman PC, the Co-op City Tire Co., BobCares Charitable Organization, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home, Riverbay Corporation, CCPD, NYPD and FDNY CPR Trainers, as they helped us bring this event to life. Events like Summer Fun Day remind us that when a community comes together, there is nothing we cannot accomplish. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, danced, volunteered, or simply showed up. You made this day unforgettable. We look forward to many more moments like this — until then, let us continue to build, celebrate, and uplift one another.

––Wendell Mattison

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 – 11 a.m.; Adult Sunday School, 9:15 a.m.

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

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

Summer Worship Schedule

Adult Sunday School is on summer hiatus.

Sunday, July 6 – Sunday, September 7: Dress Down Worship begins at 10 a.m.

Sunday, September 14: 11 a.m. Worship and Adult Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. Save the Date

Sunday, July 20 – Family & Friends Day BBQ

Last Sunday, CPC was a vision of beauty with all the different shades of purple on white worn in celebration of our annual Men and Women’s Day. Deacon Samuel Wilson, Jr. opened morning worship and Rev. Tyrone Richardson along with the Praise Team led devotion. Pastor prayed and read Galations 3:27-29 in support of our theme, “Men and Women Working Together in Christ.” To honor the occasion, Sister Elaine McClain recited her poem, “Valuable,” before the Choir sang. Our guest preacher, Minister Kirsten Holden of Greater Faith Baptist Church, brought a mighty word. She bolstered our theme and added the subtopic, “We’re Better Together.” Minister Holden urged us to learn from each other, to be in agreement and use our unique gifts to enhance the kingdom of God together. Because what? We’re better together. But that’s not all. Minister Holden is a powerful singer and Pastor would not let her leave without a song. And please know she did sing and she was accompanied by her son, Brother Christian Garland, on the drums. We thank you for your fellowship. If you are looking for a church home, we invite you to worship with us. Come explore and experience all the new possibilities at Community Protestant, a church of love

and understanding.

Our sincere and heartfelt condolences are extended to all who are in a season of mourning. To Deacon James Tidball and all of our sick and homebound 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.

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave[a] nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28 ––Lexa M. Mingo

Building 22AB Association

Monday was our last meeting for this year. Have a wonderful and safe summer. The ﬁrst meeting for the upcoming year will be September 15. Bring all your ideas for our future. I am glad our newspaper in back; now we can ﬁnd out what is going on. Please vote in our elections for the Co-op City Board; we must have a quorum. Your voice is very important. We, as a community, must stick together to make our home comfortable, safe and affordable. Congratulations, to all the graduates, and blessings to whatever your career choices are and be happy.

Compactor Room: Continue to practice separating your garbage and boxes.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Please read the etiquette list, separate at home not in the laundry charts. Pick up fabric softener sheets, clean out dryer tray. Do not spray anything in the dryer and return on time for your clothes.

Happy birthday to all. Our prayers to all who lost loved ones. Check on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something. We are having a heat wave, so please hydrate.

––Betty Leak

Building 28 Association

We would like to thank JASA Caseworker Julesa Grimes, for her info/educational presentation on SCRIE/Senior Citizens Rent Increase Exemption, DRIE/Disability Rent Increase Exemption and STAR Programs.

Did you know that every unit is Co-op City is eligible for the STAR Program?

To complete your application online, go to: https://encryption.ny.gov or by phone 518-457-2036.

A case manager is available to help older adults obtain and maintain entitlements and beneﬁts including but not limited to SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, Home delivered meals, HEAP, SCRIE, broadband, free cell phones, emergency assistance, assistance reviewing mail, and advocacy to resolve matters of concern, and more. To schedule an appointment with a case manager, call: 929-399-1371. Association meetings are suspended for summer months July and August. Regular meetings will resume in September. A schedule of summer activities and events will be announced later. Dues are still being collected, which are $10 per family.

Annual Riverbay Board of Directors Election – Green ballots were mailed and should have been received. The voting period is: Wednesday, June 11, to Tuesday, July 8. Check out the Coop City Times for more information. Remember: every vote counts! Voting has consequences! If you do not vote, do not complain! Extended voting costs us more money. Let us get it done ASAP! The Section 5 Riverbay Corporation Drop Box is located in the Einstein Community Center by the ATM on the second ﬂoor.

The executive committee is excited to announce that Building 28 Association was awarded a 2025 Community Leader Grant from CitizensNYC!More information to follow.

Save the Date

Saturday, June 28 – Section 5 Summer Fun Day, 12-5 p.m., Building 28 Association will have a table.

Gentle Reminders

Compactor Room: All bagged garbage and trash is to be disposed of in the garbage chute, not on the floor. The recycling bag is for recycled items only. Newspapers are placed on the shelf. If you spill it or drop it, clean it or pick it up. Postings are on each floor, each compactor door and inside the compactor room. Please follow directions to avoid community complaints and fines.

Dogs: When in public spaces (that includes the lobby, laundry room, and elevator), dogs should be wearing their leash. Additionally, refrain from having your pet relieve themselves under the buildings or in the grassy areas. Take them to the curb and pick up the poop.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Continue to respect our laundry room and your neighbors by getting your clothes on time (within 15-minute window) and maintaining a clean and healthy working space.

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

The secretary position is open, if interested, and if there are any suggestions for the association, please send email to: building28association@gmail.com

––Brenda Brown

IMPORTANT!

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

Goose Island

The Goose Island Seniors wish everyone a day ﬁlled with pride, joy, and celebration as we honor the freedoms we cherish and the heroes who made them possible. May your 4th of July be full of unity, laughter, and the spirit of liberty. Let Freedom Ring!

Tropicana Casino AC – Tomorrow, Sun., June 29. Price: $70; bonus: $10 slot play. Call: 646-579-1701. Bus leaving Einstein Loop, by pizza shop, at 9 a.m., Asch Loop, by library, at 9:10 a.m. and Dreiser Loop, by hardware store, at 9:20 a.m.

Resorts Casino – Atlantic City, NJ; Tues., July 15. Wait list only. Price: $70; bonus: $10 slot play. Balance due: Wed., June 25. Bus arriving Einstein Loop at 7:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8:15 a.m.

Holiday Hills Senior Day Picnic – in Prospect, CT; Tues., Aug. 19. Price: $150; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due: Wed., July 2. Seats available. Bus pick-up: Einstein Loop at 7:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8:15 a.m.

Portrait of Aretha Franklin Show Canceled – Refunds available.

Resort World Monticello, NY – Wed., Sept. 10. Price: $70; bonus: $25 slot play, $15 food voucher. Balance due: Wed., Aug. 20.

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

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

Brownstone Holiday Party – Mon., Dec. 8, in Patterson, NJ. Price: $165; $50 deposit to hold seat. Delicious luncheon, dancing, DJ, and band. Balance due: Wed., Nov. 12. Seats available.

2026 Sight and Sound “Joshua” – Thurs., March 26, 2026. Lunch at Golden Corral, then 3 p.m. show. Price: $215; $50 deposit to hold seat.

2026 Norwegian Greek Isle Cruise – May 18-27, 2026. Price: $3293-3945. Call: 646-579-1701

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 3 cards; $0.25 each additional card. Twelve games and jackpot. Refreshments. Game day – Tues. and Thurs., between 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dominoes, movies, socializing and more. Members only. Refreshments.

To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of June: Sheila Mathis and Julia Rivera. For the month of July: Carol Pope, Annette Michel, Karen Nichson, Thomas Gordon, Annie Perez, and Valerie Ruiz.

Sick and Shut-in – Carlton Lawrence and Mary Roach. Mary Pilla, our former president, sends her love to everyone. Call her at 718-753-1816.

Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475; the Section 5 community center. Phone: 718-379-9613; Stephen’s cell, 347-847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net. Cash App: $StephenCarlSr. Good health to all.

––Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Building 6 Association

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this, it finds you in good standing. The past week has been a scorcher. Neighbors, please stay hydrated. Keep children and pets off the concrete and asphalt as it can cause a serious injury. Safety is priority.

The Call Center is back up and running so I suggest all neighbors call for inspections for preventative house maintenance. For neighbors who have experienced leaks, please start making your appointments for restoration. A work order ticket with confirmation number should be provided when making all appointments. If you need assistance on facilitating an issue, feel free to contact President Lassiter at 347-366-7690 or VP Centeno, 917-417-5709.

President Lassiter has requested extermination services for all floors with various sightings of roaches in the hallways and compactor rooms. Neighbors, please rinse out all recyclables. Never discard raw garbage, diapers, dog wee pads, pizza boxes or food containers in the compactor room, as they invite rodents. Neighbors, keep up the good laundry etiquette. Sort your soiled clothing out before you arrive. The baskets are for transferring clean clothing out the machines only! Please remove your laundry within five minutes of completion. Never spray aerosols into the machine as they may ignite a fire.

On Monday, we distributed fresh cucumbers, corn, bell peppers and brusselsprouts to seniors, providing a much-needed cushion in the inflated economy.

As the saying goes, if you see something, say something. Call 718-6713050 or dial 911. If anyone in your household is experiencing a mental health crisis, please dial 988; the hotline is open 24/7.

We shareholders all deserve to live in a safe and harmonious environment. All monthly association meetings will resume in the fall. As always, I pray for safety overall. Enjoy your summer.

“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” – Margaret J.

––Lauren Lassiter

Building 21 Association Meeting Postponement

Due to the ongoing revitalization of our association room and so as not to confuse everyone with all of the other elections happening at the same time, we decided to postpone our Building 21 Association election meeting until September 25, 2025. That would have been our next meeting. As most of you are aware, we take a summer break in July and August because most people are either vacationing or have plans to go away during that time. However, we will still keep you informed periodically throughout the summer in the Co-op City Times.

It has come to our attention that an individual within our building is spreading false information about your organization. Negative information is meant to divide us. As shareholders, we should not entertain unwarranted false information designed to divide us.

We are and have always been a strong Building Association. We have always welcomed everyone and our records are open to the membership (always do your research on the messenger).

A reminder that this is your community. We must stay informed and engaged!

Remember to cast your vote for the 2025 Riverbay Board of Directors Election. It is our responsibility as shareholders.

Your Building Association is where you can start to be engaged in your community.

The Riverbay Board Elections are coming up. Please make your VOTE count by voting on time!

We need floor captains on every floor. Please volunteer to be a floor captain on your floor.

Questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. You can place dues and or suggestions in our lockbox located in the laundry room (next to the television). Our yearly dues are $10.

Our regular monthly meeting is every fourth Thursday of each month. You may contact us at our email us at 21association@gmail.com.

May God bless and continue to keep you and yours safe.

Jarasia Wilson

Building 2 Association

Summer greetings, fellow shareholders

The Building 2 Association held its final meeting before the summer recess on Tuesday, June 17. The evening was marked by fellowship, important community updates, and heartfelt recognition of our volunteers. We also shared a delicious and nutritious meal from a local restaurant.

The meeting featured two distinguished guest speakers, Chief Andre Waring of the Co-op City Department of Public Safety (CCPD) and Cary Smith, Assistant Executive General Manager of Riverbay Corporation. Chief Waring delivered an informative presentation on critical safety issues facing our neighborhood, including investigations, enforcement strategies and public safety tips. He encouraged residents to remain proactive and engaged, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance and the role of CCPD in maintaining a safe environment.

Mr. Smith provided a transparent and informative overview of Riverbay’s responsibilities and their impact on our quality of life. His presentation reflected a strong sense of commitment to Co-op City residents. A robust Q&A session followed, giving shareholders the opportunity to voice concerns, ask questions and receive direct responses from both speakers. The open dialogue fostered trust and helped strengthen communication between residents and leadership. We extend our sincere appreciation to Chief Waring and Cary Smith for taking time to engage with our shareholders and share their expertise.

Floor captains are still needed. As part of our efforts to foster a safe and connected environment, the Building 2 Association is seeking volunteer floor captains. Floor captains serve as vital points of contact on each floor, helping to relay important information, monitor conditions and promote safety awareness. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact us at building2assoc@aol.com

Together, we can build a stronger and more unified Building 2.

Upcoming Events

Mardi Gras-Themed Birthday Celebration: Honoring residents with April, May and June birthdays on Saturday, June 28, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Join us for a festive afternoon of music, refreshments and good old fashioned community fun.

Food Pantry Distribution: Saturday, July 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Residents in need are encouraged to stop by for fresh groceries and pantry items. Volunteers are always welcome and appreciated.

––Adelina Martinez

Building 25 Association

Greetings, Building 25 cooperators. It’s summer time! We wish everyone a safe and fun-filled summer season, and Independence Day celebration. We also extend our sincerest congratulations to all graduates and their parents. Happy birthday and best wishes to the cooperators who will celebrate their birthday this week.

Sick and Shut-ins: We wish you improved health.

Condolences: We send our sympathies to cooperators who lost a loved one recently.

Elections

The 2025 NYC Primary election is over, and we thank everyone who participated by voting. Now, we need to continue with enthusiasm and VOTE for the 2025 Riverbay Board of Directors. By now, cooperators should have received a green envelope in the mail containing the “Riverbay Board of Directors Election Official Ballot.” Early, in-person voting started on June 25th and Election Day is Saturday, June 28, 2025, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. in the Bartow Center. These are the individuals who will make decisions and advocate for programs and services to ensure Co-op City remains safe and affordable.

Our building association board members participate in meetings with department heads and Riverbay’s Board members, providing input in perceived needs of our building and our community. We make every effort to invite staff from our service departments to attend our regularly scheduled monthly meeting, except during the summer break. The meetings with guests were informative, your questions were respectfully answered, and repairs were promptly addressed. We encourage our fellow cooperators to attend the building association meetings. If you are unable to attend the meetings, you can still voice your concerns by contacting us: email: bldg25association@gmail.com, or leave us a note in the suggestion box, in our laundry room. A Board member will acknowledge and respond to messages and notes as quickly as possible. We welcome and appreciate your input into the operation of our building association.

The yearly building association’s dues are $5 per family.

Have a good week.

—Evelyn Herbert

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW National – National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) is an “organization of organizations,” comprised of more than 350 campus and community-based sections and 37 national women’s organizations that enlightens, inspires, and connects more than 2,000,000 women and men. Its mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families, and communities. It was founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential educator and activist, and for more than fifty years, the iconic Dr. Dorothy Height was president of NCNW. Today, the NCNW programs are grounded on a foundation of critical concerns that are now “NCNW Priorities.” Our organization promotes education; encourages entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and economic stability; educates women about health and promotes healthcare access and promotes civic engagement and advocates for sound public policy and social justice.

NCNW Co-op City Section – The Co-op City Section of the National Council of Negro Women was founded in 1971. It was chartered by President Emerita Dr. Dorothy I. Height. The first meeting of the Co-op City Section was held in the Community Protestant Church of Co-op City on February 14, 1971. A membership of fifty-four along with four associate members was soon established and on June 13, 1971, Height, the then National President of NCNW, presented our section with its charter. Since then, our Co-op City Section has continued the legacy of our organization’s founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, with various

Black Music Month Tribute

Sly Stone passed away on June 9 of this year. He was 82 years old.

Sly Stones life was comprised of so many colorful and major events. He was frontman to one of the first major racially integrated groups of the 60s. He was married at Madison Square Garden, in concert, and almost not showing up at his Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. The immense pressure of being a Black superstar broke him down until what was left was only a shadow of what he once was.

It is easy now, with countless examples of artists who have gone through the growing pains and showed their successors the paths to take or not to take. But to artists like Sly, into their careers almost 60 years ago, there was no blueprint. There was also this unintentional element of political activism that he found himself in as a result of simply making the decision to include people of mixed races in his band. Black ones, white ones, skinny ones, fat ones. Due to the fact that it happened at the peak of the civil rights movement, such a bold decision was quite political at that time.

Sly and the Family Stone became one of the biggest bands in the world due to the fact that they sounded like absolutely no one else. This music was hugely influential. It was literally the invention of funk. Later, Sly Stone would become one of the most sampled artists of the hip hop community.

His music is-and-was phenomenal, the hooks, priceless, because of what he represented. Activism that was inclusive. “We’ve got to live together” and “Dance to the Music.” Sly Stones talent was a gift to this world and to the

programs and community building experiences. Our earlier programs included a Tutorial Program for elementary school students in the community, in which members volunteered on Saturdays to work with children to improve their reading and arithmetic skills. This program blossomed into a scheduled Saturday School led by a retired school principal and with certified teachers working with our children. At the other end of the age spectrum, we established activities for older members of our community that eventually separated into its own organization, “Retirees of Dreiser Loop.” During the Covid pandemic, Co-op City Section joined our national organization in our efforts to reach our African American communities across the country that were having the highest mortality rates. The program called “Good Health Wins” has expanded across the country as we are seeing a resurgence of communicable diseases that we thought vaccines had stomped out in our communities.

NCNW Youth Group – The NCNW Co-op City Youth Group was chartered on July 14, 2021 and continues to change the lives of young women in our community. Our Youth Group strives to empower the next generation of young women between the ages of 9-18 years old, so they may lead, empower, and advocate for their families and communities. Monthly meetings are held on the second Saturday of every month, excluding July and August, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the NCNW meeting rooms in Dreiser Community Center.

Social Media – Remember you can find us on our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com; on Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

––Joyce Howard

African-American Association of Co-op City 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 p.m. The NAACP Co-op City Branch Office hours are: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays. Notary available on Monday and Wednesday during office hours, beginning May 12. Call for an appointment.

Keep hope alive by voting in all elections – beginning in our community.

Remember: Elections have consequences! If you don’t vote – don’t complain! Riverbay Board Election in-person voting commences June 25–June 28.

Special thanks to Simone Jones, Community Strategist, attending our general meeting on June 22 and explaining Rank Choice Voting, and explaining when each person exercises their civic duty, they feel empowered. An attendee stated they would be voting on Tuesday, and this was helpful. The meeting was very informative and appreciated by all. Light refreshments were served. The members were advised that the National Office has reemphasized the importance of seeking advise before participating in political events. Members were advised if a special meeting is required during the summer we will try and hold it virtually.

Save the Dates

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood spirit. The event aims to build positive relationships between residents and law enforcement. It is held annually on the first Tuesday in August. Conversation is being held to discuss Riverbay participating. Currently it is in the works for Tuesday, August 5. Information to follow.

shape of popular music as we know it.

Some musicians create great art, what Sly Stone did was on another level. Without Sly Stone, there is no Prince, no Parliament Funkadelic, no Michael Jackson… Repeat, some musicians create art, but what Sly Stone did was totally on another level. We hope you enjoyed Black Music Month.

Coming Events!

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

September 6 – Visit us at the Co-op City Fair, 12 p.m.-6 p.m.

September 13 – Open Mic Fundraiser, Saturday, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15

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

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

October 19 – General Meeting, Sunday, 3 p.m., Dreiser, Rm. 15 AAACC Programs

Belly Dance Classes: contact Xonia Wilson, 646-301-9438

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

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

AAACC Membership: $25/year single membership and $35/year family/ household. 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.

Michelle Marbury

Monday, August 11 – Care Without Barriers, a student led non-profit workshop, 3 p.m., 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36. Dedicated to education, prevention, and community support against marijuana and C.T.E. More info to follow.

Friday, September 12 – Join us on the Skyline Princess Summer Sunset Cruise. Deposit due now! Donation: $150 pp. After August 1, donation is $175 pp. First payment: $75 by June 20. Second payment due by July 15 and final payment due by August 29 (deposit non-refundable). Price includes buffet dinner, braised beef ribs, chicken du jour, lemon sole stuffed with crabmeat, vegetarian entrée, dessert, soda, juice, coffee, herbal tea (cash bar). Boarding Time: 7 p.m. sharp! Returning 11:30 p.m. Info: Jacquie at 917-217-6363; NAACP Office at 718-320-3210; Jewel at 917-488-5237; Tracy at 646-234-4065; Leslie at 718320-1370; Gail at 718-671-3801. Ask about the charter bus.

Watch & Listen: “Our Culture, Our Stories” on the NAACP+ YouTube channel.

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, until 12/31/25. Make ck/mo. payable to: NAACP Co-op City. Mailing address: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36, Bronx, NY 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

JP VA Hospital & Co-op City Summer Fun

American Legion Post 1871

Day Involvement

On Friday, June 20, in the Bronx, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the James J. Peters VA Medical Center commemorated its annual “Last Roll Call Ceremony of Remembrance.” At this ceremony, veterans who passed away during 2024-2025 are posthumously honored. The intent of the last Roll Call ceremony, also known in the American Legion as Post Everlasting Ceremony, is a ritual for family members, friends, and comrade-in-arms to remember the veterans who passed away during the honoring timeline. This gesture of care and support hopefully eases the pain and helps to cope with the recently departed loved one. Our Post answered the call to participate in the remembrance by providing the “Posting of Color” duties during the opening of the Order of Service (top photo). From the opening remarks to the poetic tributes, service melodies, reflections in the memorial roll call tribute, wreath laying, and folding of flag/Taps, leading to the Benediction, the experience was solemn and heart-rending. We look forward to being an active participant at this annual ceremony.

On Saturday, June 21, in Co-op City, Section 2, our Post answered the call from the Section 2 Summer Fun Day Committee to participate in the Section 2 Summer Fun Day festivities. Fellow legionnaires (at right, bottom photo) “Posted the Colors” during the singing of our National Anthem. At this annual Summer Fun Day, patriotism was alive and well by all we socialized with.

Greetings, retirees, and friends.

Here we are in the last weekend in June and July is just a couple of days away. We wish everyone a safe and Happy 4th of July.

Atlantic City – A few seats are still available. Wednesday, July 9, day trip to the Tropicana Casino. Tickets are $70 with a $15 slot-play giveback. The bus will pick up on Dreiser Loop, in front of H&R Block and will depart at 8 a.m. sharp. On our return, the bus will drop off at Einstein, Asch, and Dreiser Loop. Contact

Our American Legion comrades, pictured with firefighters (at left, bottom photo), took the opportunty to synergize with our commuinty, especially those providing services of fire and security preventions. Pictured below, bottom photo, are also two of our proud CCPD officers who provided a physical safety-presence at the event. As noted by the other pictures, participants were well entertained with a real Antiguan ‘Steel Band’ playing vibrant Caribbean music (right, top). There was also a full time DJ who, throughout the event, pumped popular dancing songs from the past and present. The event was blessed with a hot and sunny summer day as appropriate with the branding/name of the event. Hot dogs were served, among other amenities, for our future replacements – the kids in attendance.

Today, Saturday, June 28: Veterans Resource Fair, 10 a.m.3 p.m., at Northeast Bronx YMCA, 1250 East 229th Street. Attend and connect with government and community organizations serving the Veteran Community.

Family Fun Day, Section 5: Today, Saturday, June 28 – 12 p.m.-4 p.m. At this event, there will be food, games, music and activities for all ages. While enjoying the day, if you are a Veteran, visit our Post table to find out “why you should belong” to the American Legion or similar servicing-partner organizations.

Contact Us: American Legion Post 1871, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 41, Bronx, NY 10475. Phone: 718-320-8165. Email: americanlegion@post1871. org. Website: https:www.legion.org. ––Antonio Codrington

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Serita for additional information at 347-564-5722.

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

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

Condolences – Please continue to pray for all our bereaved members and their families.

Good and Welfare – Get well wishes to Serita Grayson and James Stanton. Continue to pray for those who are ill and/or shut in. Please notify Lorraine Parker at 718-671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths.

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

General Meeting – Our general meetings are suspended during July and August, for summer break. Our next meeting will be held in September, the date to be announced.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

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

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

Bartow OAC Shopping trips – BJ’s/LIDL, 7/18; Amazing Savings/ShopRite, 7/22; Stew Leonard, 7/2; Costco, 7/25; Walmart, 7/29; Trader Joe’s, 7/30. All trips cost $6, except for Walmart, which is $12.

Acupuncture: JASA NORC Office – w/Dr. Flora Luyando. Wed., July 16 & Aug. 6, at 11 a.m.12 p.m.

Bartow OAC: Apple Picking Trip – to OCHS Apple Orchard, Aug. 28; price: $45, includes lunch. Common Pantry has been rescheduled for Mon., June 30, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. in Bartow OAC, Rm. 31.

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

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

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

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

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

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

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

JASA NORC OFFICE, new Zumba class every Tues., until July 1, at 11a.m.

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

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

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

Visual Arts w/Laura, via Zoom, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Knitting/Crocheting w/ Lynne & Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Card Games w/Frankie, 3:304:30 p.m.

Massage Therapy, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Alzheimer & Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation and other services. Please call 646-744-2921 for an appointment.

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

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

Line Dance with Bartow Swingers – Wed. & Fri., 12-1 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop, Aud. A.

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

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

Mindful Mornings, 9-10 a.m.

Tai-Chi, 9-10 a.m.

Line Dance, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

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

Movies w/ Dennis: “South Side with You,” 1-3 p.m.

Never Too Old to Learn 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 w/KJ, 1-2 p.m.

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

Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Salsa Dancing w/George, 12-1 p.m.

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

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

Beware of Telephone Scammers

If you receive a telephone call demanding immediate payment using a pre-paid card, wire transfer or bitcoin, even if your Caller ID identifies a legitimate business, HANG UP and report the call. Do not divulge personal information such as Social Security number, bank account number, date of birth or any other information. Be smart, be safe!

Weekend Recap Discussion, 9-10 a.m.

Stay Well Exercise w/Denise, 10-11

a.m., Rm. 2

Chair Yoga Class w/Charles, virtual, 10-11 a.m. (2x a month)

Piano Sing Along Class, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 (2x a month)

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

Leisure TV, 2-4 p.m.

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

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

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Tai Chi w/Jimmy, 2-3 p.m., Aud. A Computer & Tablet Class w/Ralph 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. (Virtual)

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

Massage Therapy w/ Diana, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 6. (Twice a month. Appt. Req.)

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion, 11 a.m.12 p.m., Aud. A Technology Class w/Steve, 1:15 p.m.-2:15 p.m. Drama Club, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Rm. 4

Sewing Class w/Joy, 9-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Manicure Services, 10-11:30 a.m. (twice a month)

Cardio Exercise w/Gail, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Leisure Games w/Clare, 1-3:30 p.m., Rm. 2 Body in Motion w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud.A

Walmart (Monroe, NY), 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Coney Island Beach/Boardwalk, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

LUNCH: KOSHER:TBD NON-KOSHER: TBD

NO DINNER SERVED

LUNCH : KOSHER: TBD; NON KOSHER: TBD

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Chicken Gumbo, Mediterranean Cous Cous, Steamed Green Beans, Orange; NON KOSHER: Beef Meat Sauce w/ Penne Pasta, Steamed Green Beans. Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: TBD; NON KOSHER: TBD

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER Breaded Vegetable Cutlet, Garlic Rosemary Roasted Potatoes, Cole Slaw, Canned Pineapple; NON-KOSHER: Chick Pea Power Bowl, Classic Macaroni, Orange

LUNCH: KOSHER: TBD; NON KOSHER: TBD

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce, Spaghetti, Capri Blended Vegetables, Orange; NON-KOSHER: Jerk Fish, Black Beans & Rice, Steamed Kale

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

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

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

p.m.

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

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley

JASA Closed for Independence Day Celebration

2 p.m.-4:30 p.m., in Bartow OAC, Rm. 31

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., Dreiser, 2nd floor Word Games

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

Bingo on Saturdays 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the back of JASA NORC Of fice

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

JASA Closed for Independence Day Celebration

Health & Wellness 2.0 – Celebrating Each Other, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

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

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

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

JASA Closed for Independence Day Celebration

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

Menu fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. ALL meals served with 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.

LUNCH: KOSHER: Baked Chicken Quarters, Apple Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini; NONKOSHER: Oven Fried Chicken, Baked Mac & Cheese, Steamed Collard Greens

JASA Closed for Independence Day Celebration

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Baked Chicken, Apple Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini, Kiwi, (10 Grab & Go); NON-KOSHER: Chick Pea & Kale Stirfry, Brown Rice, Cauliflower w/ Carrots, Banana

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

KOSHER: Tuna Fish, Potato Salad, Health Slaw, Apple; NON-KOSHER: Curry Chicken, White Rice, Cooked Cabbage w/ Shredded Carrots

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 11a.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 wellbeing 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. Check back here for the latest information on registration and recertification dates. Thank you for your patience during the process this year.

Events – Here are the pick up times for the Saturday, June 28, Caesars Atlantic City Casino trip: 920 Baychester Ave., 8:45 a.m.; Asch Loop (behind library), 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 recommend you bring a sweater or jacket in case of cooler temperatures. Thank you, again, for your support. All proceeds go to the Black Forum to support Co-op City through our Emergency Food Pantry. We look forward to seeing you all!

––D. Illis

Traditional Synagogue

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

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

General Information: The Traditional Synagogue is 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, June 28, at 9:23 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, July 4, at 8:10 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 all other members who will be celebrating their birthday in July. Please send me your name and I will add it to the list.

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

––Bruce Gitelson

Pentecostal Tabernacle

The Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to a worship service every Sunday morning at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, NY 10475.

Sunday School for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m. Midday service starts at 11:45 a.m.

Wednesday morning fasting and prayer service will be held from 11 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Regular prayer meeting and Bible Study will also be held every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m.

Worship service will be held every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.

All night service will be on Zoom: Call: 6469313860; ID:857484513; Code:850684#

Knowing the truth is vital to believers, but knowledge without application or practice is of little, if any, value. Practice is what gives value to Apostolic doctrine. James 4:17 states: “Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.”

As we consider the things that brought unity to the early church, we will be observing the same thing that brings unity to the church today. Truth never changes, and these cores principles establish unity among believers as we, like the disciples of the first century, commit ourselves to live by them.

It is important that we maintain fellowship with one another. 1 John 1:7 states: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his son cleanseth us from all sin.”

“We should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner

of some is, but exhausting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Hebrews10:25

As we continue to praise God and maintain a prayerful life, we will be able to grow stronger in God. Prayer will help us overcome temptation. Jesus said that men ought always to pray and not to faint. It is important for believers to pray together and worship together. Doing so builds strong bones of units, enhances and furthers the corporate work of the church and strengthens every individual believer.

The newly baptized believers at Pentecost went forth spreading the life changing gospel of Jesus Christ everywhere.

Acts 2:38-40 states: “Then Peter said unto them, ‘Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” And with many other words did he testified and exhorted, saying ‘Save yourselves from this untoward generation.’”

May the truths and blessings of the church ever continue through the mercy of the one who purchased our redemption with his own blood Jesus Christ. Let us build a strong foundation that will stand firm.

And not like the man in St. Luke 6:49: “But he who heard and did nothing is man who build his house on the ground without a foundation, against which the streams beat vehemently, and immediately it fell.”

––Rev. R. Sibblies

Co-op City Baptist Church

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

All of the church’s Bible Study Classes, prayer services and other activities have ended for the summer. They will all resume in September.

On Sunday, July 6, we will start our summer hours. There will be no Sunday School classes. We will have one service at 9 a.m. Our regular 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. services will resume on Sunday, September 21, along with Sunday School classes at 9:30 a.m. The attire during the summer will be casual dress.

The next CCBC Food Giveaway will be distributed on Friday, July 11, 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.

On Sunday, July 13, at our 9 a.m. service, we will celebrate Christian Education

Recognition Day. The guest preacher will be Rev. Dianne Asphall, Associate Minister, Mt. Zion Christian Baptist Church, Mt. Vernon, NY. The Theme is “Rooted in the Word: Growing in God’s Truth” from Colossians 2:7. Everyone is invited.

“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

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.

“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” –2 Corinthians 5:18

On June 19th, we celebrated Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day. This date marks a key moment in our nation’s history: the day in 1865 when the last group of enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned they had been freed. This was two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in January 1863. General Gordon Granger and Union troops brought the long-overdue news of freedom.

As both Americans and Christians, Juneteenth is a time not only to honor the endurance and sacrifices of enslaved people but also to reflect on the spiritual freedom we receive through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. It invites us to consider our role in the ongoing pursuit of racial justice and reconciliation.

In 2 Corinthians 5:18, Paul reminds us that God reconciled us to Himself through Christ and entrusted us with the ministry of reconciliation. This means we are called to carry the message of God’s grace and redemption to others— and to live out that message in our actions.

In our present time, when racial tensions and divisions persist, we as Chris-

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15

Blessings to you.

There is so much uncertainty in this world, especially in view of the current events and the threat of war. This leaves people with feelings of worry and anxiety. Prayer is a useful way to calm the mind and focus on God's promises where He can provide peace, acknowledging His power over our problems.

We invite you to join us in this mission of seeking God’s love and mercy. We need to restore and maintain faith within our community. We know that stepping into a new place, especially a church, for the first time can be intimidating, but we pride ourselves on making you feel welcomed. We are a small congregation, but our hospitality and love surpass our size.

Our doors are open to receive those who are looking for a bible-based church. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, 2nd floor, Rm. 33.

Services Offered

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

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

Thursday: Telephone Bible Studies: English/7 p.m.; Spanish/9 p.m. (564888-5521; Code: 696248)

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

Holy Communion is the first Sunday of the month.

Let us close with this prayer: “Lord Jesus, we ask you to give us all around peace in our mind, body, soul and spirit. We want you to heal and remove everything that is causing stress, grief, and sorrow in our lives. Please guide our path through life and make our enemies be at peace with us.”

Bendiciones para ti.

Hay mucha incertidumbre en este mundo, especialmente debido a los acontecimientos actuales y la amenaza de guerra. Esto deja a las personas con sentimientos de preocupación y ansiedad. La oración es una manera útil de calmar la mente y enfocarnos en las promesas de Dios, donde Él puede brindar paz, reconociendo su poder sobre nuestros problemas.

Los invitamos a unirse a nosotros en esta misión de buscar el amor y la misericordia de Dios. Necesitamos restaurar y mantener la fe en nuestra comunidad. Sabemos que entrar por primera vez a un lugar nuevo, especialmente a una iglesia, puede ser intimidante, pero nos enorgullecemos de hacerles sentir bienvenidos. Somos una congregación pequeña, pero nuestra hospitalidad y amor superan nuestro tamaño. Nuestras puertas están abiertas para recibir a quienes buscan una iglesia bíblica. Estamos ubicados en el Centro Comunitario 135 Einstein Loop, segundo piso, sala 33.

Servicios Ofrecidos

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

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

Jueves: Estudios Bíblicos telefónico: Ingles/7 p.m.; Español/9 p.m. (564888-5521; Código: 696248)

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

La Santa Cena es el 1er Domingo del mes.

Concluimos con esta oración: “Señor Jesús, te pedimos que nos des paz en mente, cuerpo, alma y espíritu. Queremos que sanes y elimines todo aquello que nos causa estrés, dolor y tristeza. Guía nuestro camino y haz que nuestros enemigos estén en paz con nosotros.”

––Blanca Santana

tians are called to be a united voice—transcending denominations—in the pursuit of justice, equality, and healing. Just as many enslaved people remained in bondage for years because no one had yet shared the news of their freedom, so too do many today live unaware of the freedom available to them in Christ. Paul echoes this in Romans 10:14: “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”

We are called to be that someone—the ones who bring hope by sharing the good news of the gospel in both word and deed.

May the Holy Spirit empower us to be living examples of love, unity, and reconciliation, and may our lives inspire others to embrace the freedom found in Christ.

Come and Receive a Blessing: All are Welcome!

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

Tuesday: Grief Share in Rm. 43, Einstein Community Center, at 1 p.m. (new)

Thursdays: Pantry and in-person Prayer Meeting at 11 a.m.

Upcoming Events – Save The Dates

Sunday, June 29: Escuela Dominical at 11:15 a.m.

English Service at 11:15 a.m.

Servicio en Español at 12:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 6: Bilingual Service at 11:15 a.m.; 4th of July Celebration after service.

––Grace Abadia

Circle of Christ Church

IGLESIA CIRCULO DE CRISTO

When God Challenges You

Sometimes life’s difficulties appear random and as if they have no validity. God declares through His Word that we are being sifted and matured through what he allows.

Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

God diminished Saul and promoted David. He corrected his prophet Samuel and saved His people Israel. He showed Goliath that his physical strength was no match for God’s power. God seamlessly links all these characters for our spiritual understanding.

1 Samuel 16:14 “Now the Spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented him.”

Saul lost focus, was disobedient, and prideful. He lost sight of God and was rejected.

1 Samuel 16:11 “Samuel asked Jesse, Are these all the sons you have? There is still the youngest, Jesse answered. He is tending the sheep. Samuel said, Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.”

David was considered inferior, he was not from the right family, he mingled with the sheep. God changed him from shepherd to King.

1 Samuel 16:7 “But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Samuel the prophet, was unaware of God’s choice. Even men and women of God can miss what God is doing when they look with carnal eyes and set their vision to human standards.

1 Samuel 17:10 “Then the Philistine said, ‘This day I defy the armies of Israel! Give me a man and let us fight each other.’”

Goliath is typical of Satan who stands up to accuse, belittle and cause fear and turmoil. He confused the Israelites and made them look away from God.

1 Samuel 17:11 “On hearing the Philistine’s words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified.”

God used Goliath to demonstrate the spiritual disintegration of Saul and Israel. Since they no longer looked to God, God had to disturb them.

Perhaps, God, in His great wisdom has allowed you to be disturbed. He wants to use you for His honor and His glory, but you are unfocused. You’re seeking titles, he wants to give you purpose. Let go of what you think is best and let God take you beyond your ability.

Schedule (147 Dreiser Loop)

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

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

Tuesday: Prayer 10 a.m.

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

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

Friday: 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.

Stay Vigilant

Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

Newsong Church

Exhausted and Empty: The High Cost of a Prayerless Life

“Gideon and his three hundred men, exhausted yet keeping up the pursuit, came to the Jordan and crossed it.” –Judges 8:4 (NIV)

In Judges chapters 8 & 9, we see that Gideon’s story doesn’t end well. Did you know that you can be anointed by God and not have a great walk with God? It is possible to be used powerfully on a public platform while you’re spiritually falling apart privately.

As we study the scriptures, we see that one of the reasons for Gideon’s downward spiral is his weak devotional life. In chapters 6 & 7 we see Gideon praying, seeking God’s will, worshiping God before the battle, leaning on other godly people to help him carry the burdens that come along with leadership. Now we find Gideon exhausted and his prayerless, worshipless, wordless walk with God leaves him vulnerable to compromise and sin.

Child of God, make no mistake about it. We need to spend time in God’s Word, we need to spend time in prayer, and we need to spend time in worship. Seven days without spending time with God makes one weak!

Join us this Sunday as we learn more life-giving lessons from the book of Judges! 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. Colossians 3:16 says, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” We sing to bring glory and honor to God and celebrate who He is and what He’s doing in our church!

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

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

Against The Flow – Every Friday at 6:30 p.m. 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.

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.

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

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. Email: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-320-0844. Priest-in-charge: Fr. Simeon Johnson, cell phone: 917-2274303.

In-person worship service for the Third Sunday after Pentecost will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, June 29, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference.

Please remember to tune in for the daily noonday prayer service. 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.

Events and Fundraising Activities

Today, June 28: Winery Trip to Pindar Vineyards in Long Island, sitdown luncheon at the Cooperage Inn and discount shopping at the Tanger Outlets. Hopefully, you would have completely paid up your $160 for the trip. The bus departs at 8:30 a.m. from in front of the rehab center, 177 Dreiser Loop, Co-op City. If you have any questions, please contact Sheila at 718-320-0844 or 718-320-2654.

August 15: The Episcopal Church Women (ECW) of St. Joseph’s are having an Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Ride to Connecticut (luncheon included) on Friday, August 15. The bus departs promptly at 8 a.m. from in front of the rehab center, 177 Dreiser Loop, Co-op City. Donation: $165 per person. Deposit of $50 due as soon as possible with the balance of $110 to be paid by July 25, after which there will be no refunds. Contact: Valrie at 718-3200844 or 347-200-5850. If no answer, please leave a detailed message.

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 to those in need.

Grace and Peace!

––Merville Chambers

Church of the New Vision

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

Our scripture verse for 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 School Adult and Youth begin at 9:30 a.m.

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

Fasting, prayer and meditation is the last Wednesday of each month.

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 646769-9900; Access Code: 3099388#. Please mute your phone.

Worship Message: “We are Blessed of God with His Peace”

Sermon: Philippians 4:6-7 KJV, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Save the Dates

June 28: Councilman Kevin Riley hosts Summer Fun Day in Section 5 –visit our tables.

August 9: Family & Friends Picnic at Glenn Island Park. See ushers for parking permits.

Tuesday, August 12: NOAH at Sight & Sound is sold out.

We continue to pray for speedy recovery for the sick and shut-in, grace, mercy, strength, comfort, healing, and condolences to families who lost loved ones and good health and wellness for all.

Please mail contributions, tithes, and offerings to: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475. Thank you.

Brenda Brown