Co-op City Times 09-13-25 by Co-op City Times

Quorum Obtained in 2025 Riverbay Board Election Results to be Certiﬁed Sept. 16

By ROZAAN BOONE

The 2025 Election Committee reported on Thursday, Sept. 11, that sufﬁcient ballots were received by the independent election vendor, YesElections, to validate this year’s Riverbay Board of Directors election.

The 2025 quorum was 5,041 ballots. As of press time on Friday, YesElections conﬁrmed that 5,485 ballots had been received by the election company.

The second round of ballot mailing in the Riverbay Board election yielded the 685 ballots, and then some, that were needed for quorum as of Aug. 29, when the election was extended for a third time this year.

On Wednesday of this week, the Election Committee reported that only 67 ballots were outstanding to make the quorum. By Thursday afternoon, YesElections informed the Committee that quorum had been obtained.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” exclaimed Board Director Leah Graham, co-chair of the 2025 Election Committee. “Quorum has been reached! We are pleased to (Continued on page 2)

The following message to shareholders is from the co-chairs of the 2025 Election Committee, Board Director Monique Coleman and Board Director Leah Graham.

Election co-chair Monique Coleman: “Our community has come together to reach a quorum using paper ballots.

“A total of 5,485 shareholders have exercised their power and authority to seat new directors. This is more than just a number, it is a powerful reminder that when we unite, our voices shape the future of Co-op City.

“Because of your participation, our election vendor may now tally the votes and we will be able to certify the results as early as next week.

“This means we can move forward with new leadership, stop unnecessary spending on repeated extensions, and get back to the real business of managing and improving our community.

“Every ballot mattered. Every vote counted. Together, we turned second ballots into second chances, and second chances into success.

“Way to go, Co-op City! We did this together!”

Election co-chair Leah Graham: “Dear Community,

“Thank you, thank you, thank you! Quorum has been reached!

“We are pleased to announce that quorum has been achieved for the 2025 Riverbay Board of Directors election.

“Thank you to all shareholders who participated; your engagement ensures the election process can move forward and strengthens our community.

“Please be on the lookout for the swearing-in date of the newly elected directors. We hope you can join us!”

Hot Water Shutdown

High temperature hot water is expected to be shut down from Wednesday, Sept. 17, at 9 a.m. to Thursday, Sept. 18, at 3 p.m., for Power Plant personnel to repair and/or clamp the leaks on the underground piping between Building 4 and Defoe Place.

The following areas may be affected:

Zone 1: Buildings 1-7, 15-20; Adler Place, DeFoe Place, Asch Loop; Shopping Centers 1 & 2; PS 180 and attached schools

Stay tuned to the Phone Tree for updates from Riverbay.

This will be a 30-hour shutdown due to the extensive work required. Please allow some time for the water to reach its full temperature once service is restored.

We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding.

Monique Coleman Leah Graham

Quorum––––– (Continued from page 1)

announce that quorum has been achieved for the 2025 Riverbay Board of Directors election. Thank you to all shareholders who participated; your engagement ensures the election process can move forward, and strengthens our community.”

“Our community has come together to reach a quorum using paper ballots. A total of 5,485 shareholders have exercised their power and authority to seat new directors. This is more than just a number, it is a powerful reminder that when we unite, our voices shape the future of Co-op City,” stated Board Director Monique Coleman, co-chair of the Election Committee. “Because of your participation, our election vendor may now tally the votes and we will be able to certify the results as early as next week. This means we can move forward with new leadership, stop unnecessary spending on repeated extensions, and get back to the real business of managing and improving our community.”

The Election Committee subsequently gave YesElections the go-ahead to close the election and begin tabulating the ballots received from shareholders since voting in the election began on June 16.

The initial voting period in the 2025 Board election began on June 16-July 7. The first extension was from July 7–July 29, and the second from July 29–Aug. 18, 2025.

The Riverbay Board approved the third extension of the election by passing Reso. 25-38 at the Board business meeting on Monday, Aug. 18. This extended the voting period from Aug. 18, until Tuesday, Sept. 30.

Reso. 25-38 also authorizes the Election Committee to close the election at 9 p.m. on the date the quorum is obtained, if the Committee chooses to end the election earlier than Sept. 30, 2025.

In that scenario, the Committee would review and certify the final count of ballots no less than three business days after the quorum is attained. The deadline for challenges to the election to be filed is at 5 p.m. on a date not less than one day after the results are certified by the Election Committee.

As a result, the Election Committee will review and certify the tabulation of ballots on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 7 p.m. in Dreiser Auditorium. This is an open meeting which shareholders can attend. And, in accordance with the 2025 election rules, the deadline to file challenges to the election is at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17.

Reso. 25-38 adds that the Board president shall call a meeting of the Board to swear in the newly elected Board directors on a date not less than 12 calendar days after the election results are certified by the Committee.

With the end of the election this week, this year’s voting period spanned

GOT FOOT PAIN?

approximately 12 1/2 weeks before the quorum was obtained and it also necessitated a second mailing of election ballots to some 11,000 households that had not yet voted in the election.

Co-op City shareholders choose from among 11 certified candidates competing for one of the five open seats on the Riverbay Board of Directors, the policy making body of the Riverbay Corporation. The 2025 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.

Shareholders who did not wish to vote for candidates had the option to check the box to cast their ballot for quorum purposes only.

The five candidates with the highest votes will be sworn in to serve a threeyear term on the 15-member Board. If there is a vacancy on the Board within the next year, the sixth-place finisher in the election can be seated to fill out the unexpired term of the outgoing director.

The certified election results will be posted as soon as they are available next week and reported in next Saturday’s Co-op City Times. Shareholders will also be informed when the date has been set for the swearing-in ceremony for the new directors, which will take place at an Open Board meeting. Following the seating of the new Board directors, the 2025-2026 Riverbay Board of Directors will proceed with election of its Officers for the new year.

“Please be on the lookout for the swearing-in date of the newly elected directors. We hope you can join us!” Election co-chair Graham said.

“Every ballot mattered. Every vote counted. Together, we turned second ballots into second chances, and second chances into success,” said Election cochair Coleman. “Way to go, Co-op City! We did this together!”

New York Expands Community College Reconnect Program

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New York has expanded their free statewide community college program for working adults.

Governor Kathy Hochul officially made the announcement on July 1 for the Reconnect programs, which are designed to provide career mobility and access to higher education for adults between the ages of 25 and 55. Officially, the CUNY Reconnect program began in 2022, and this fall will bring the new addition of the SUNY Reconnect program.

For the CUNY Reconnect program, individuals can choose from over 120 high-demand programs. In addition to being between the ages of 25 and 55, the individual must also be a New York State resident, enroll in a minimum of six credits per semester, have no prior postsecondary degree, matriculate in an approved high-demand field, file for the FAFSA, apply for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (NYS TAP) and, if applicable, apply for the New York State DREAM Act.

Similarly, the SUNY Reconnect program requires participants to be between 25 and 55 years old, be a resident of New York State, have no prior degree and are enrolled in an approved associate degree program at a SUNY community college. Individuals can still be eligible even if they have college credits, a certificate or microcredentials.

For eligible participants in the program, New York State “will cover tuition, fees, books and supplies,” according to the Governor’s Office. Interested individuals must be pursuing an associate degree in one of the following high-demand fields:

• Advanced manufacturing

• Artificial Intelligence

• Cybersecurity

• Engineering

• Technology

• Nursing and allied health fields

• Green and renewable energy

• Pathways to teaching in shortage areas

Participants in the CUNY and SUNY Reconnect programs will also have access to support like academic advising and student success coaching.

Governor Hochul discussed the importance of the CUNY and SUNY Reconnect programs on July 1.

“The cost of pursuing a degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers — that’s why we’re opening the doors of opportunity at SUNY and CUNY so that students can achieve their dreams,” said Governor Hochul. “I’m fighting to make education more affordable and accessible, and the Reconnect program will continue to pave the way forward for students as they enter our State’s future workforce.”

To learn more about the SUNY Reconnect program or to request information, visit tinyurl.com/yxdpa76j. More information on the CUNY Reconnect program can be found online at tinyurl.com/2cnpdysd or by calling 646-664-3560.

Share Your Comments & Suggestions with Riverbay

Shareholders are encouraged to submit input on how to improve services and service delivery as well as other ideas that impact quality of life.

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. Engage with Riverbay. Share your comments, compliments and ideas.

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Celebrate Constitution Day 2025

Join the League of Women Voters on Saturday, September 20, as they hand out 10,000 free copies of the U.S. Constitution across NYC. You can pick up your own copy or volunteer to help distribute them at libraries, banks, and community centers. Download copies in multiple languages at constitutioncenter.org. Learn more about this year’s ballot proposals and plan your vote at LWVnyc.org or call 212-725-3541 for help.

Farmers Market

The Harvest Home Farmers’ Market is Back! Pick up fresh produce every Wed. and Sat. from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the park between Asch loop and Aldrich Avenue (adjacent to the ﬁrehouse).

Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade

Thinking of upgrading your kitchen cabinets? Check out the Riverbay Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade program at https://bit. ly/4eCU1ee or scan the QR Code here to ﬁll out the form and receive more information from Riverbay about the vendors.

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.

If you have a suggestion you’d like to share with the Riverbay Board and/or Management, visit the Home page of the ofﬁcial Coop 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.

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced on Monday that the city would be distributing 350,000 free Chromebooks to New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) students for this academic year.

Each Chromebook will either have 5G or LTE connectivity with internet access in addition to what the Mayor’s Office called “optimized educational programming…to succeed in today’s digital learning environment.” Using the Google Management Console, each Chromebook will be formatted with NYCPS enterprise settings for secure and standardized access across devices.

Three key applications will be pre-loaded on each Chromebook device:

• Google Workspace for Education: NYCPS uses this suite of cloud-based applications for communication between students and teachers, instruction, assignments and collaboration.

• TeachHub: This is NYCPS’ secure portal for students and teachers that connects them to digital learning applications such as Clever, iLearnNYC and Google Classroom.

• iLearn NYC: This tool connects students with digital curriculum materials, NYCPS-approved content and personalized learning platforms.

During a press conference Mayor Adams detailed the need to bridge the digital divide and provide internet

2nd Front Page

NYC to Distribute 350K Chromebooks

connectivity at home for more NYCPS students. “Access to reliable technology and high-speed internet is a modern-day necessity, and, right now, too many New York City students don’t have it,” said Mayor Adams. “That doesn’t just prevent progress inside the classroom, it limits opportunities outside of it — but our administration is changing that and providing our young people with free devices to stay connected in the 21st century. We know that too many families are still struggling with the cost of living and cannot always afford new, internet-enabled devices; that’s why, this school year, we are powering up education in our city by providing 350,000 New York City public school students with brand-new, LTE and 5G enabled Chromebooks.”

Overall, the Chromebook distribution came to fruition after Mayor Adams’ Administration reached a deal with T-Mobile in February, and as part of that deal, T-Mobile will provide the 5G or LTE internet access for each Chromebook. Public schools will distribute the devices during this school year.

A July report from the Center for an Urban Future highlighted that the Bronx trailed behind other boroughs in terms of access to the internet or owning a computer at home. In fact, the report found that approximately one in three Bronx households do not have a computer and 22.4% of households do not have broadband internet.

Comptroller’s Report Highlights Slow Bus Service Citywide

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City Comptroller Brad Lander released a report on September 4 detailing the current state of bus service citywide.

Data from the report showed that only 71.5% of local city buses arrive on time, 70.5% of select bus service arrives on time, followed by express bus service, which has an ontime rate of only 65.1%. When looking at just the Bronx, the data showed Bronx bus service has a median on-time rate of 72.9%, which is the highest of all the boroughs, and the third-highest bunch rate at 10.7%. The bunch rate helps with determining how on-time buses are and how often each bus has the proper headway. For example, if a bus is scheduled to arrive every 10 minutes but one bus comes only three minutes after an initial one, that would be considered bunching.

Another aspect of the report outlined the performance for each bus route in the city by assigning letter grades. A grade of “A” is reserved only for bus lines that are well above average in terms of reliability, speed and bunching rate, followed by a “B” for lines that are above average. A “C” grade indicates a line that performs at an average level in comparison to all other buses, whereas a “D” and “F” indicate a bus route that performs well below standards and is often unreliable.

Here is what the report had to say about bus service in Coop City:

Bx5

- On time percentage: 79.4%

- Average speed: 8.8 mph

- Bunching Rate: 9.2%

- Overall Grade: C

Bx12

- On time percentage: 83.7%

- Average speed: 8.8 mph

- Bunching Rate: 15.5%

- Overall Grade: C

- Bx12 (Select Bus Service)

- On time percentage: 60%

- Average speed: 10.2 mph

- Bunching Rate: 19.8%

- Overall Grade: C

Bx23

- On time percentage: 61.6%

- Average speed: 11 mph

- Bunching Rate: 10.1%

- Overall Grade: C

Bx25

- On time percentage: 76.6%

- Average speed: 7.5 mph

- Bunching Rate: N/A

- Overall Grade: C Bx26

- On time percentage: 71.1%

- Average speed: 7 mph

- Bunching Rate: N/A

- Overall Grade: D Bx28

- On time percentage: 75.9%

- Average speed: 7.3 mph

- Bunching Rate: 6.4%

- Overall Grade: D Bx30

- On time percentage: 78.0%

- Average speed: 8.1 mph

- Bunching Rate: 10.2%

- Overall Grade: C Bx38

- On time percentage: 85.1%

- Average speed: 6.9 mph

- Bunching Rate: 10.6%

(Continued on page 4)

Notice to Shareholders: Riverbay Crawler

The Riverbay Crawler is currently inaccessible because of the Riverbay network outage. As soon as the system is safely restored, information on the Crawler will be updated. In the meantime, we encourage shareholders to continue reading the weekly Co-op City Times, visit the corporation’s official website (coopcity.com), and YouTube channel (bit.ly/3G4S7rd). Be sure to also like and/or follow the Co-op City Times online at issuu.com/cctimes and on X,Threads, Bluesky and Instagram, @coopcitytimes, and sign up for the Riverbay Phone Tree notification system. You can opt out of receiving phone calls and instead choose emails and text notifications.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Report

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− Overall Grade: C

− Q50

− On time percentage: 73.0%

− Average speed: 15.7 mph

− Bunching Rate: N/A

− Overall Grade: B BxM7

− On time percentage: 68.4%

− Average speed: 12.4 mph

− Bunching Rate: 13.3%

By DANIELLE CRUZ

− Overall Grade: C

Notably, express bus service as a whole left a lot to be desired, according to the Comptroller’s report.

“Express buses have higher average speeds but a much lower on-time reliability rate than the system overall…They fail to reach stops at their scheduled times compared to local or SBS buses. This is problematic for riders given that express buses are less frequent than other types of service.

“Trash It, Don’t Flush It”

For years, NYC’s wastewater system has been facing an expensive and growing problem — clogged pipes and sewer backups caused by improper waste disposal of items like wipes (even “ﬂushable” wipes), paper towels, kitchen grease, and other non-biodegradable materials.

According to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), nearly $19 million is spent each year to degrease the sewers, deal with damage caused by sewer backups, and repair equipment that has been damaged by non-ﬂushable items and transport those items to a landﬁll.

Flushing these non-biodegradable items has also led to fatbergs becoming a worsening problem. Fatbergs, a combination of the words fat and iceberg, are large, dense masses of common household trash items that clog pipes and block sewer lines. These masses often take weeks to remove and have to be manually removed by sanitation workers, who use a combination of high-powered water jets, saws, and pickaxes to break the fatbergs apart into smaller chunks that are then removed from the sewer, either by hand or an industrial vacuum.

The wipes, grease, and other materials that do make it to one of the city’s 14 wastewater treatment plants end up collecting on screens at the plant where they are manually removed with rakes in order to decrease the likelihood of the items jamming mechanisms, clogging pumps, and breaking critical machinery.

Flushing these items can also affect the pipes within a building, leading to clogs that impact the water ﬂow throughout the building, causing ﬂoods and sewage backups.

What To Throw in The Trash

Not sure what you can ﬂush and what you should throw out? Here’s a list of some materials that should never be poured down a pipe or ﬂushed down the toilet.

Grease – Pouring fat, oil, or grease down your kitchen sink can clog your household pipes or sewers completely. Grease is also one of the main components in a fatberg. When you’re done cooking, let the oil cool down and then pour it into a can or bottle with a lid, place it into a plastic bag and place it on the compactor room shelf.

Wet Wipes – wipes are another main component of fatbergs. The DEP says that the increase in the sale of wipes over the last several years correlates with an increasing number of blockages, damage to equipment, landﬁll trips and ﬂooding. Toilet paper is manufactured in a way that allows it to break down al-

All of the ten bus lines with on-time performance rates below 50% are express buses,” the report highlighted.

Congestion pricing has had a positive impact on buses that pass through the Central Business District in Manhattan since the beginning of implementation in January 2025. Data from January 1 to June 1 showed express bus on-time performance increased by 11.2% and local bus on-time performance improved by 4.1%.

most immediately in the sewer system. Wipes, even those labeled as flushable, are much stronger and do not break down. All wipes, even “flushable” wipes should be thrown in the trash. Paper towels should also never be flushed down the toilet.

Kitty Litter – flushed kitty litter usually accumulates at the bottom of a pipeline and can cause problems on the lower floors of a building. Instead of flushing litter down the toilet, used litter should be emptied into a plastic bag and placed in the trash. Even if the brand claims it’s flushable, don’t flush cat litter down the toilet.

Q-Tips, Cotton Pads or Other Cotton Products – these products don’t break down like toilet paper and will end up clumping together in your pipes. Instead, throw these items in the trash.

Hair and Dental Floss – while they may be thin and stringy, hair and floss can actually catch and hold onto debris and form debris-balls, which will clog your pipes. After flossing or when cleaning out your shower drain or hairbrush, be sure to put hair or floss in the trash.

Menstrual Products and Diapers – tampons, pads, and diapers should never be ﬂushed down the toilet. These products are meant to absorb water, not break down in it, and will only expand when you ﬂush them.

Cleaning and Automotive Products – Antifreeze, gasoline, motor oil or transmission ﬂuid should never be disposed of down the drain. Additionally, cleaning products labeled with “Danger—Corrosive” should never be disposed of down any drain. Instead, these products should be disposed of at a Department of Sanitation’s (DSNY) Special Waste Drop-Off Site. You can ﬁnd one of the drop sites by visiting the DSNY page at https://bit.ly/4gy95dR. The Bronx drop-off site is located in Hunts Point on Farragut Street.

Food – food scraps can potentially get caught in your pipe and create a stubborn clog while it’s decomposing.

For more information on how to safely dispose of certain products, visit the DEP’s page at https://bit.ly/3Qar9js.

New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Addresses Rise in Account Takeover Incidents and Shares Tips to Help Prevent Fraud

The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is providing tips on how to recognize and avoid account takeover fraud, a type of identity theft where scammers gain access to an individual’s online account by stealing login credentials. According to a June 2025 report from the Identity Theft Resource Center, account takeover incidents are on the rise. Additionally, as technology becomes more advanced, cyber-enabled fraud has become more prevalent and was involved in almost 83% of all financial losses reported to the FBI in 2024.

“Cyber-enabled fraud, including account takeovers, continues to evolve and target unsuspecting consumers, often with devastating financial consequences,” said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. “Once a hacker gets into your banking, social media or email accounts, it can be a nightmare to recoup the losses. That’s why prevention is the first and best line of defense for consumers against these kinds of fraud. I’m urging all New Yorkers to follow our tips so they can recognize scams, protect their accounts and take action quickly if fraud does occur.”

What is Account Takeover Fraud?

Account takeover fraud is a type of identity theft where a scammer gains access to someone’s online account by obtaining their login credentials and using those credentials to impersonate the account holder for fraudulent purposes. Account takeover can impact multiple types of accounts, including email accounts, bank accounts, credit card accounts, social media accounts, payment apps or any other online account. Once scammers gain access to an account, they can withdraw money, make purchases, transfer or redirect money, or open fraudulent lines of credit to access more money. Scammers use various methods to trick consumers so they can gain access to their accounts. Some of the common tactics include:

Phishing: Scammers often impersonate organizations via email, calls, text or fake websites to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information. Scammers may often call impersonating a bank representative, customer service professional, or tech support personnel asking for account login credentials. If a password has been exposed, but two factor authentication is in place, the impersonator will ask the victim to provide the onetime passcode in order to access the account.

SIM Swapping: SIM swapping occurs when a scammer transfers a phone number to a SIM card that they control. This gives the scammer access to calls, texts and the victim’s security codes.

Unusual links sent via email or text: Scammers often send deceptive links and offers of free downloads that hide malicious software created to

steal passwords and record the keystrokes on devices, exposing personal information.

Data Breaches: Data breaches give scammers information that can allow them to access accounts belonging to others. In 2024, data breaches led to over $1.8 billion dollars in losses.

Password Guessing: Scammers use automated tools to guess weak passwords, especially if they are common or easy to guess.

Immediate Action Steps If Your Online Account Has Been Taken Over

Account takeover fraud can have devastating consequences for everyone involved, but there are immediate steps you should take if you believe your online account has been compromised.

Change your password as soon as you become aware of unauthorized activity or a data breach: If you still have access, update the credentials for the affected account. Update credentials for any other accounts that use similar information. If your email access is impacted, contact your email provider so they can issue a temporary password. Depending on the severity, you may consider closing and starting a new account.

Assess all online accounts: Check if your other online accounts have been affected, especially those with the same password. According to Experian, criminals can attempt to access other accounts by “credential stuffing,” where the exposed login credentials are used to log in to other accounts.

Update security questions: Change your security questions and answers to prevent further unauthorized access.

If your bank account was compromised, notify your financial institution right away: Report the fraud and initiate preventative measures.

If your email or social media account was compromised, notify your contacts: Inform your contacts about the account takeover and advise them to be cautious of any suspicious emails or social media messages. This includes answering personal questions, clicking on links, or downloading software.

Report the fraud: You can report scams and suspicious communications to the Federal Trade Commission. You can also report confirmed cases of identity theft to identitytheft.gov. The information you report allows law enforcement to track trends and investigate threats.

Monitor your accounts and credit reports:

• You can get a copy of your credit report every week for free from the three major credit bureaus: Experian, (Continued on page 7)

Residents are reminded that the Co-op City Times is the official newspaper of the Riverbay Corporation. It is the vehicle through which your Board of Directors and management, and the state supervisory agency, the New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), communicate with you, the shareholder.

The Co-op City Times is distributed every Saturday to each townhouse door, in the lobbies of the high rise buildings, and in the three community centers.

It is very important that you pick up and read your Co-op City Times to make sure you are informed about what is going on in the community, and more importantly, what your Board and management are doing to ensure efficient delivery of services to you, and the proper upkeep of the development.

When you are informed, you can be prepared to discuss issues that are pertinent to you and your household at the community meetings held by the Board of Directors.

Co-op City Times / September 13, 2025

– • Letters to the Editor • –

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

Cooperative Living

To the Editor:

I had the recent privilege of meeting Mrs. Helen Atkins and Ms. Linda Collins at a meeting with a researcher (Dr. Glyn Robbins) who is in the process of writing a book about cooperative living. I sat among these community giants and longtime advocate for affordable housing. I shared my thoughts about living here in our community. The conversation and history of Coop City made me feel so proud to be a member of this community. There are many of us who are caretakers of the cooperative lifestyle who believe and live by the standards set forth by the pioneer of co-ops, Abraham Kazan. The idea and practice of living in a community, where all the residents literally have a vested interest in the community succeeding is both simple and complex. The simplicity of the idea is not difﬁcult to comprehend,

however complex to execute. The complexities occur because human nature drives us in different directions. Folks enjoy the affordability, and all the amenities our community has to offer, while simultaneously detaching themselves from any responsibility that requires their commitment to the cooperative. If we believe in cooperative living, image the serenity that is within our reach by working together. Housing is a necessity, living in a cooperative is a choice. When you take the time to apply, complete the process, ﬁnally get the keys to your new unit, you endorsed an occupancy agreement to be a part of us now, anything less is not within the foundations of cooperative living. We follow occupancy rules, respect our neighbors and common spaces, this ensures we are living cooperatively.

—Ruth Sharma

Safe Driving in Co-op City

Co-op City motorists are reminded that the speed limit citywide is 25 mph to ensure the safety of pedestrians, especially children and the elderly, on all city roadways. The city enforces the speed limit through the installation of speed enforcement cameras at hundreds of locations throughout the city, in particular, in school zones.

The city’s previous speed limit on city streets – 30 mph – remains in effect on all roadways where another limit is not posted. In addition, some streets, especially those near to schools, may have an even lower speed limit so drivers must pay close attention to the posted speed limit signs on all city streets.

The city’s Department of Transportation does not post signs or announce the location of speed cameras enforcing school zones because it is illegal to speed anywhere within the City of New York and posting the locations of the cameras reduces their effectiveness as a deterrent to speeding. The cameras, however, do not

photograph every vehicle passing through the school speed zone, only those travelling at 10 mph above the speed limit within the speed zone. School cameras operate 24 hours daily, 7 days a week.

Speed enforcement cameras are reviewed by trained DOT technicians to ensure accuracy and only in cases where it is evident that the vehicle in question was travelling at 10 mph above the speed limit in the school zone will the owner of the vehicle receive a Notice of Liability (NOL) in the mail within 14 days. The current ﬁne is $50.

In addition to reducing the speed limit, the city has also installed more speed enforcement cameras in the continuing effort to slow drivers down to a safe speed and protect New Yorkers from injury and loss of life.

A pedestrian struck by a vehicle travelling at 30 mph is twice as likely to be killed as a pedestrian struck by a vehicle travelling at 25 mph.

Slow down. Drive safe and help protect pedestrians.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 4

Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Ofﬁce, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

Building 4 A, B & C

100, 120 & 140 Donizetti Place

Current Lease

Expiration Date: December 31, 2025

New 3-Year

Expiration Date: December 31, 2028

Co-op City Times

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Danielle Cruz Managing Editor

Brandi Simpson Junior Associate Editor

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Sheldon Green

Multi-Media Advertising Manager

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

Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp. Advertisements and classiﬁed advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reﬂect an endorsement from Riverbay Corp. of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available.

The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor.

All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times. Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

Fraud ––––– (Continued from page 5)

Equifax and Transunion. Go to annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228 to check all three credit bureaus for free.

• Regularly check your bank and credit card billing statements for fraudulent charges. If you spot something suspicious or unusual, report it to your credit card or ﬁnancial company immediately.

Consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit:

• A fraud alert will notify lenders processing a credit application in your name that they need to conduct additional identity veriﬁcation. It is free to do, and you only need to contact one of the three credit bureaus. A fraud alert will stay on your credit for 1 year but can be renewed. If you are the victim of identity theft, you qualify for an extended fraud alert which lasts for 7 years.

• A security freeze blocks all access to your credit report. To place a free security freeze on your credit report, you will need to contact each of the three credit bureaus. A security freeze lasts indeﬁnitely or until you choose to unfreeze it. You can also unfreeze, or “thaw,” your credit report temporarily to allow a lender, insurance company or other entity access to your credit report for only a set period of time, after which your credit report automatically refreezes.

Proactive Tips to Help Prevent Account Takeover Fraud

There are also proactive steps you can take to protect yourself from account takeover incidents and alert yourself to potential fraudulent activity on your accounts.

Secure your accounts:

• Review account settings: Verify that your account settings, such as recovery email and phone number, are secure and up to date.

• Check for forwarding rules: Ensure that no forwarding rules have been set up to redirect your emails to an unknown address.

• Review the last log-in time: AARP recommends periodically reviewing the “last log-in” time stamp on sites you visit to ensure the time matches your activity. Don’t ignore password change notiﬁcations. Lastly, contact your ﬁnancial institutions to implement security measures such as automated SMS messages about transactions.

Protect your devices: Don’t click on free downloads from pop up ads, don’t auto save passwords on your computer, and don’t click on links from unveriﬁed sources. In addition, call back any business or agency that unexpectedly calls by dialing their ofﬁcial number.

Bookmark or save veriﬁed sites: Avoid using search engines to ﬁnd frequently used websites.

Protect your accounts:

• Create different passwords for each account to prevent one account takeover

incident from compromising several accounts or use a password manager.

• Create unique, complex passwords that have a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters to make it harder to guess.

• Change passwords regularly.

• Add additional security measures including enabling biometric authentication methods such as facial recognition or ﬁngerprint scanning.

About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection

Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, X and Instagram and check in every Tuesday for more practical tips that educate and empower New York consumers on a variety of topics. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides voluntary mediation between a consumer and a business when a consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be ﬁled at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection. The Division can also be reached via X at @NYSConsumer or Facebook.

CCPD Reminder to Shareholders: CCPD Weekly Report and Blotter

The Co-op City Public Safety Department informs shareholders that the weekly CCPD Report will be taking a brief hiatus as we reimagine and refocus how we share updates with our residents. We recognize the value of providing clear, relevant, and timely information, and as part of our commitment to transparency, the report will return in a new, more focused format and will be published monthly to better serve the needs of our community.

Additionally, the CCPD Blotter relies exclusively on the Riverbay technology infrastructure to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the information

we provide. As Riverbay continues to restore its systems safely and thoroughly, we are temporarily suspending publication of the Blotter until full system restoration is complete. Once systems are fully operational, residents can expect an expanded and detailed Blotter reﬂecting the commitment of CCPD to keep our community informed while ensuring all data is secure and reliable. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to enhance the way we communicate with the community we proudly serve. Together, we can keep Co-op City peaceful for everyone.

––CCPD

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.

OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

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

For employment opportunities, please visit these following sites:

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Director’s Viewpoint Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

Did You Know?

Riverbay Board Elections. If we don't see a swearing in of this year's election winners by, say, October 4th, when the process will have reached its six-month semi-anniversary, it won't be for not trying. And that goes double for the election co-chair duo.

I'm betting we won't see the full six months, though. I’m thinking ﬁve and a half, ﬁve and three quarter months, tops, should bring in that last 375 needed ballots to reach Nirvana, um, I mean quorum.

I'm counting from April 4th, when the CCTimes edition printed the election co-chairs’ call for potential candidates and committee members. But we probably should realistically start the clock on June 21st, the day the CCTimes listed the 14 certiﬁed candidates (reducing that number of candidates by one by the next week). That'll make for a better apples to apples comparison of 2025 to 2024, when asking the question: which was longer?

It would really be a surprise if “Quorum Reached” isn’t today’s headline, but even if it takes an additional week to cross the finish line, disregarding false starts and technical difficulty delays, it’s possible that, technically, this certification-to-swearing-in election period might wind up being shorter than 2024’s.

Let’s measure. From the announced certiﬁcation in the 4/20/24 issue, sweeping past July 23 (the day quorum was reached), and on to the August 14th swearing in, 2024’s election weighed in at four months minus six days.

It'll be close. It’ll be a horse race. But even though 2025 will come in way closer to Halloween than 2024, the actual start-to-ﬁnish time may show 2025 beating 2024 by a nose.

And if it does, it will be thanks to the tactic used by the election committee for the ﬁrst time this year: the second ballot mailing.

The ﬁrst mailing brought in 2/3 of the votes needed to reach quorum within the ﬁrst few weeks of voting. The next weeks and weeks did diddly-squat. Sending the expensive but needed second mailing will prove to have undoubtedly done the trick. Finally. But what if it had been sent out two months sooner? Just wondering.

Did you know? It seems we have forgotten we are a no-pet community. The only exception is for assistance animals. Assistance animals include ser-

vice animals and emotional support animals. Service animals include dogs, such as seeing eye dogs, and horses (yes, horses, but only the miniature variety). Service animals are speciﬁcally trained to aid the person with a disability. Emotional support animals or comfort animals (which can be any type of animal) need not be trained to provide any such service. But to be allowed on our premises and housed on our premises, both an application for an accommodation to keep the animal and a letter from a licensed mental health professional justifying the emotional need must ﬁrst be submitted to management.

Even so, even assistance animals must follow the rules. They must be housebroken, they can’t be aggressive, they must be leashed, and excessive barking may need to be corrected to remain welcome in Co-op City.

They are not, however, ever to be referred to as pets. We are a no-pet community.

By the time I noticed the ﬂyer for the recent Paws on Patrol event, it was too late to ask for the wording to be corrected. But it's not too late for me to insist that such wording—anywhere on our grounds, on our walls, or in our paper—never again be repeated. Sound-prooﬁng for the coming Metro-North. I was watching NYC gov, Channel 74 on Altice, aka Optimum Cable, when it was mentioned that an affordable apartment house being built near the coming Metro-North Morris Park station (another one of the four coming-soon Northeast Corridor Penn Station Access stations under construction—like ours) will have triple-pane windows installed.

We’re getting a four-foot fence to protect our neighbors in Section 5 (most especially Bldg. 31) from the noise of the soon-to-be 120 trains passing by their ﬁne but maybe not ﬁne enough two-pane windows.

I’ve been a longtime advocate for sparing Section 5’s cumulative sanity, soon to be challenged by the coming trafﬁc woes (and the peace of mind of anyone struggling to get to the Co-op City M-N station in less time than

Co-op City Times Photo Submissions

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

the train will get them to Penn Station). I’ve also long been calling for (harping about) south-of-thetracks parking and access.

Let’s start ﬁghting these all-of-the-above issues before it’s too late to gripe. Shall we?

One thing we can do is appeal to the local elected ofﬁcials who have oversight of the areas both north and south of the tracks.

Except for Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, those electeds are not one in the same persons.

Currently, Councilman Kevin Riley of CCD12 has the north-of-the-tracks territory in his district and Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato of CCD13 has the south-of-the-tracks part in hers. Same goes for State Senators Jamaal Bailey (SD36 and Nathalia Fernandez (SD34) and for Congress members George Latimer (CD16) and Alexandria Carlos-Cortez aka AOC (CD14).

As I wrote last week regarding the ofﬁce holders of CCD13, SD34, and CD14: We may not be their constituents, but Section 5 may have more allies than we originally thought.

One last did you know. A thoughtful cooperator sent me information from the Treasury Department announcing it will no longer issue paper checks such as Social Security payments—starting September 30th. Only direct deposits from then on. For help, call the Electronic Payment Solution Center at 800-967-6857, Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. And this is the link for the press release with all the details https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0223

If you didn't know, now you know. (Or do you?) Have a good week, everybody. MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com / 718 219-2211.

Chavurah - Temple Beth El of Co-op City

Shalom Everyone: Happy New Year

Rosh Hashanah is around the corner – September 22, & September 23

The High Holidays are in two weeks. Pray with us.

Please feel free to join us.

It is FREE.We can send you a book.

Chavurah - Temple Beth El is still here and we are having services via Zoom

Here is the schedule:

Schedule of Services as follows: On Zoom

Evening Rosh Hashanah on Zoom

Monday, September 22, 8:00 p.m.

Morning Rosh Hashanah on Zoom

Tuesday, September 23, 10:00 a.m.

Kol Nidre Evening Yom Kippur on Zoom

Wednesday, October 1, 7:30 p.m.

Morning Yom Kippur on Zoom

Thursday, October 2, 10:00 a.m.

Yiskor will be at the end of the Morning Service. Public Yiskor

Thursday, October 2, 2:30 p.m.

Afternoon Service Mincha & N'eliah

Thursday, October 2, 4:00 p.m.

Please send an email or call me so I can get you the Zoom links. We can also get you a book for the services. Services are free.

If you wish to have names of you loved ones read on YiskorYom Kippur, please call or email me.

Phone: 973-769-3915

Email: RabbiDennisTobin@aol.com

––Rabbi Dennis Tobin

Riverbay Corporation Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade Program FAQ

1. What renovations are included in the Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade Program?

Answer: Removal and installation of new kitchen cabinets, countertops, sink and all plumbing hardware.

2. Can I replace only the cabinet and keep the rest of the material I currently have to keep the cost down?

Answer: The current package being offered includes all new materials.

3. Can I change or swap out any of the available options in the kitchen cabinet upgrade package, and if so, what is the procedure?

Answer: Shareholders can swap out any of the available options in the upgrade package, however an additional alteration agreement will need to be approved, and the price does not include any Riverbay discount.

4. Who will do the renovations?

Answer: The renovations will be done by independent contractors who have been vetted and approved by Riverbay.

5. How much will the renovations cost?

Answer: Depending on your kitchen layout and the contractor you select to do the upgrade, the cost for labor and material will be $6,500 to $7,500, plus applicable tax.

6. Who is responsible for paying the contractor/vendor (for material)?

Answer: The shareholder is responsible for the cost of the labor and material needed for the upgrade.

7. Who will process the payment for the renovation and the materials?

Answer: Service will be paid directly from the shareholder to the contractor for labor and materials.

8. Does Riverbay get a commission for the sale of products and services used in this program?

Answer: Riverbay does not get any monetary commission/remuneration on any sale of labor and/or material.

9. Will there be payment plan options?

Answer: That will be agreed upon between the shareholder and the contractor.

10. What forms of payment are available?

Answer: Shareholders can discuss payment options with their contractor.

11. Are there any accommodations for disabled/senior shareholders who would like to participate in the Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade

Program?

Answer: No.

12. How much time will the contractor need to complete the kitchen cabinet upgrades?

Answer: Shareholders should discuss this with the contractor at pre-inspection.

13. Will I need to ﬁll out an apartment renovation form?

Answer: Yes, a renovation agreement form must be ﬁlled out by each shareholder participating in the Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade Program.

14. What days and times will the contractor be available to do the upgrades? Will they be available on the weekends?

Answer: All work schedules will be agreed upon by the shareholder and contractor. Riverbay allows contractors to work in Co-op City apartments on Monday – Friday, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. On Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. No work is allowed on Sundays.

15. Who do I contact to schedule the renovations?

Answer: Shareholders will contact the contractor directly.

16. What steps should be taken before the contractor arrives to begin work in my kitchen?

Answer: The contractor will conduct a pre-inspection before any work is done.

Prior to the beginning of the renovation, the shareholder is responsible for removing all items from inside the existing cabinets, clearing the countertops and removing the items to a separate room.

The shareholder is also responsible for ensuring that there is a clear, unobstructed path for the contractor to get from the front door to the kitchen.

The shareholder is responsible for securing valuables and personal items while work is being done in the apartment.

17. Am I required to be home when the contractor arrives to work in my apartment?

Answer: Someone 18-yearold or over must be in the apart-

ment while renovations are taking place.

18. If I am not satisﬁed with the work done by the contractor, what recourse do I have?

Answer: The shareholder is responsible for following up on any concerns directly with the contractor.

19. Can I hire an approved contractor to renovate other areas of my apartment?

Answer: For any additional renovations to your apartment, please contact your CSO.

20. Can I hire a contractor that has not been vetted and approved by Riverbay?

Answer: Contact your respective CSO.

21. Do the materials and services have warranties?

Answer: There is a standard one-year warranty on labor and the cabinets.

A New App is Coming!

Director’s Viewpoint Michelle Marbury

Beyond Quorum: From Silence to Strength

Greetings, Riverbay Shareholders and Neighbors,

At long last, we are nearing the end of the Riverbay Election~

This process began back in May—and here we are, in September, still pushing to meet quorum. That fact says something important about us as a community: despite our size and strength, we have not yet fully grasped how powerful we can be when we act and move together as a collective.

You Must Decide

Because we could not meet quorum the ﬁrst time, we’ve been forced to extend deadlines, reprint ballots, and spend unnecessary funds—all to comply with HCR rules that will not go away. This isn’t just red tape. It’s the price of inaction. And it raises a hard question: will we be shareholders in name only, or shareholders in action?

Five Years or Fifty-Plus Years

Each of us—whether we’ve lived here for ﬁve years or ﬁfty—has a role in shaping what Co-op City becomes tomorrow. Every choice we make today becomes part of the legacy we leave behind.

Co-op City is not just a place to live.

It’s a vision built on cooperation, affordability, and mutual respect. One of the largest cooperative housing developments in the world, it exists because generations before us showed up, spoke out, and made difﬁcult decisions that laid the foundation for stability, growth, and pride.

But here’s the truth: that foundation is only as

strong as the people who maintain it. Love Don’t Love Nobody

We say we love this community—but love shows up. It votes. It engages. It does the work.

And yet, year after year, we struggle to meet a quorum in our elections.

Let’s be honest: without your vote, the future of Co-op City is being shaped without you.

Your vote isn’t just about candidates—it’s about our collective voice. It’s about our collective vision. It’s about legacy. What legacy do you want to leave?

If you want to protect your investment, your home, your neighborhood, you must vote. You must tell your neighbors to vote. You must act like it matters—because it does.

What Will We Say to the Next Generation?

When our children, grandchildren, and neighbors look back at this era, what will they see?

Will they see a community that stood still—or one that stood up?

Will they see silence—or leadership?

Will they inherit a fractured foundation—or a thriving cooperative model built on equity, excellence, and unity?

The legacy we leave will not be written by accident. It will be shaped by the choices we make— starting right now.

The Tipping Point

We have reached the tipping point. Elections should not drag on for months, and yet here we

are—because too many of us have yet to act. This isn’t just about ballots. It’s about whether we take ownership of the cooperative we call home. Every delay costs us money, every silence weakens our voice. The question is simple: will we continue to let apathy drain us, or will we rise up and prove that Co-op City knows its worth?

The Call to Rise

This is not just another election cycle—it’s a test of who we are as a community. Across the nation, housing, equity, and stability are being threatened. But here in Co-op City, we hold the power to protect what generations before us built. Power unused is power wasted. It’s time to rise, to organize, and to show that when Co-op City moves, we move together.

The Turning Point

Moments like this deﬁne us. We can either accept delays, wasted resources, and dwindling participation—or we can turn the page and take back our narrative. Every shareholder, every building, every ballot counts. If we choose action, this election will not just end—it will mark a new beginning for Co-op City’s future.

Thank you for reading my viewpoint~

Thank you for hearing my heart. I welcome your thoughts, your action, and your partnership. I can be reached at mmarbury@riverbayboard.com.

The time is now, Co-op City.

“It starts with one. It grows with all. United! we are a force for good—and our time is now.”

NCNW Co-op City Section— Welcome to our new fi scal year, members of NCNW Co-op City Section! Our feet hit the ground running! Our fi rst General Membership Meeting will be tomorrow, Sunday, September 14, in Dreiser Center, Rm.11. Our fi rst meeting will be strictly in person because President Wade-Stewart has a special meeting planned for us. The meeting will begin tomorrow at 1 p.m., not the usual 3 p.m.! We will begin the meeting with a memorial moment in honor of our dearly departed sister Lori Melton followed by the taking of our Section photo. Our President is asking us to all wear black with our purple and white stoles. Stoles will be available at our meeting for $35 if you have misplaced yours. Then our meeting will begin.

Remember that your dues are payable at the beginning of our 2025-2026 ﬁ scal year. To renew your national membership dues, you must pay through our national website, $75. If you are a Life Member or a Legacy Life Member, you must only pay $25 to our national web-

National Council of Negro Women

site. Our Youth Group members (middle through high school) pay $10 to our national website. Our adult local membership dues, payable to NCNW Co-op City Section, are $50 per year. You may Zelle your local membership dues to ncnwcoopsecﬁ n@gmail.com. You may mail your local membership dues to: NCNW Co-op City Section, 3300 Connor Street, PO Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475.

Youth Committee – On Saturday, September 6, our NCNW section, led by Youth Committee Chair,

Akeisha Neely, joined forces with the Bronx/Westchester Chapter of the Black Girls Social Club (BGSC) led by President Linda Tillman, to

African-American Association of Co-op City

AACC Elects a New President

At a special meeting of the executive board with members at large conducted onJuly 21 at 7 p.m., via Zoom, the association completed its electioneering process by electing Chief (Dr.) Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba (aka TOBA LaCrown) as its new president. The meeting was chaired by the outgoing president, Ms. Michelle Marbury, who has served the association meritoriously for several years with her team. The new president will have the opportunity of completing the vacant positions on the board, and this exercise was successfully done during the remaining days of summer to make sure that at the installation ceremony scheduled for the September meeting, all board members would be ready.

The New President President Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba is not new to the association. He was a one-time second vice president of the group. He’s come to this position with a lot of experience as a community leader, and he just completed his two terms as the president of the 47th Precinct Community Council. He’s still serving as the president of the coalition of African American Churches and Organizations in Co-op City, of which the African American Association is a strong member organization. Chief TOBA LaCrown is the former commander of the American Legion of Co-op City, Post 1871. He is a wartime veteran of the United States Air Force, and a former police ofﬁcer with the NYPD before venturing into the United States Census Bureau as a ﬁeld supervisor, where he worked in the Department of Commerce for over thirteen years. Chief TOBA LaCrown, whose background was in medicine, also has a PhD degree to his credit. He was once a tax examiner with the Internal Revenue Service and has traveled across the United States before settling down here in the Bronx. The president and his new board will be installed sometime this month at an agreeable date, and the community will be well informed.

Association Programs

President TOBA LaCrown will have the opportunity to meet and discuss several programs of the association with the outgoing leadership in a transitional meeting planned for Friday, September 5. Issues of record and other pertinent issues will be discussed in order to draw a new agenda for the organization. It is most unfortunate that the president, with his background in law enforcement, is coming in at a time when the Bronx is littered with bullets and several fatalities. The association will commit to initiating discussion on the issue of gun violence and unnecessary shootings in our neighborhood.

Special thanks to community members who joined our secretary, Francine Reva Jones, at the recent March on Wall Street organized by Rev. Al Sharpton of the National Action Network. We hope to see more of you and we ask that you try to join the association as we band together in this era of unforeseen daily occurrences in this country. Our meeting schedule will remain the same, and let’s join forces together to effect the change we desire in our community.

––TOBA Adeyemi LaCrown , PhD, DD

host a successful back-to-school supply giveaway during the Co-op

City Section 5 Community Fair. Through this collaborative effort, local students received backpacks ﬁ lled with essential school supplies, along with dental kits generously provided by “Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures.” The initiative aimed to ensure that youth in the community are prepared to begin the academic year with the tools they need for success. We are grateful for the support of our Co-op City community each year as we collect school supplies for our children.

NCNW National – The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. is hosting a webinar as part of our

ongoing commitment to addressing critical health issues affecting our community. We are all invited to join an important webinar addressing suicide prevention strategies speciﬁ cally for the African American community. The webinar “Suicide Prevention in Our Community” will be open to all by registering at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/ register/WN_I9I1WufPSKGKXuM5BfmM6A. Speakers will include Dr. Sherry Davis Molock from George Washington University and Daniel Hollar from Bethune-Cookman University. The webinar will be moderated by Dr. Kimberly Y. Campbell, Licensed Clinical Psychologist. This timely webinar will provide evidence-based strategies for suicide prevention, featuring expert insights from leading professionals in psychology and mental health.

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

––Joyce Howard

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.

Photos by Robert Gray

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, retirees, and friends.

Memoriam – Eric C. Harvey

The installation of our ofﬁcers was conducted at our September 3 general meeting. Elder Michael Adolphus conducted the swearing in of our board members. Board members are as follows (see photo, left to right): Dorothy Chambers-Byrd, president; Nelson Sweeting, 1st vice president; Francine Jones, recording secretary; Geraldine Williams, ﬁnancial secretary; Hattie Overman corresponding secretary; and Joyce Hamilton-Williams, Chaplain. We thank Elder Adolphus for the job well done. Elder Adolphus also spoke to us about the Health Diagnostic Program being sponsored by Quest Diagnostics that will be held in November. Members interested in participating in this program, were able to register for this upcoming event.

Honorary Member – Congratulations to Russelle Hairston who was awarded her honorary lifetime member certiﬁcate at our September 3 meeting.

Hunterdon Hills Playhouse – Sold Out Our trip to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse is this Tuesday, September 16. We will enjoy lunch and a show “Never Too Late.” The bus will pick up on Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block at 8:30 a.m. and will depart promptly at 9 a.m. On our return home, the bus will drop off at Einstein, Ash, and Dreiser Loop.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Price is $65 with a giveback of $25 slot play. Bus will pick up in front of H&R Block, 169 Dreiser Loop, at 8:30 a.m. and will depart promptly at 9 a.m. Payments are being accepted now. Serita will be available in Rm. 19 on Wednesday, September 3, following our general membership meeting. Contact Serita at 347-564-5722 with questions.

Happy Birthday – We wish all our September birthday celebrants a happy birthday and peace and happiness throughout the year. Condolences – We continue to pray for all our bereaved members and their families. Good and Welfare – Please continue to pray for those who are sick or shut in. Please remember to notify Lorraine Parker at 718671-6403 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 718655-9170.

General Meeting – Our next general membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 1, at 1p.m. in the Dreiser Center, Auditorium C.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Building 6 Association

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this it finds you in good standing. It is Hispanic Heritage Month. We celebrate all Hispanics across America. The weeklong observation was enacted in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson to be later expanded to 30 days and signed into Law by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. It is marked by cultural events such as festivals shows and parades. Did you know that the word barbecue comes from the Spanish word “barbacoa” and the barbecue technique itself is a blend of Spanish and Caribbean traditions.

Compactor Room Etiquette: Never place raw garbage in the chute and always rinse recyclables. Place food containers in the clear bag and seal them. Remember to always take bulk boxes down to the basement. Remember, good sanitation practices deter rodents and insects.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Please remove your washer/dryer load within a 15-minute window, placing soiled items into the carts is prohibited, unsanitary and disrespectful to your neighbors. Never spray aerosol items into the machine as that could ignite a fire. Place used dryer sheets, trash and emptied detergent bottles into the proper receptacle. Parents, please mind your children in the laundry room.

As the saying goes, if you see something, say something. Call 718-671-3050 or dial 911. If someone in your household is experiencing a mental health crisis, dial the 988 hotline, which is open 24/7.

If any neighbor needs assistance, feel free to contact President Lassiter or VP Centeno. Their information is in the bulletin board. As always, I pray for safety over all. Godspeed.

“We are all individuals; we are all human beings; we are all connected together; and we all have the same rights, the same freedom.” ––Sylvia Mendez

––Lauren K. Lassiter

Building 25 Association

Greetings, Building 25 shareholders! We hope everyone had a good summer, and that you are looking forward to the cooler months ahead. We wish all students and teachers a safe and productive academic term. Welcome shareholders who moved into Building 25 recently. Happy birthday to our neighbors and friends celebrating their birthday this week. To everyone else celebrating a special occasion, best wishes and have a wonderful day.

Sick and Shut-ins: We send you warm thoughts and healing prayers. Condolences: We send our deepest sympathies to families who lost a loved one recently.

Monthly Meeting: Building 25 Cooperators’ Association’s monthly meeting resumes on Tuesday, September 16, at 7:30 p.m. in the meeting room under the portico. We are fortunate to have Ms. Milsa Vega, Community Services Office, Jr Property Manager, as our guest speaker. We encourage shareholders to attend this meeting, learn about the role of a Jr Property Manager, and how they can be of help to shareholders.

In addition to attending meetings, shareholders may contact Building 25 Cooperators’ Association via email at: building25association@gmail. com to share your ideas and concerns. Your building association strives to advocate for services on your behalf, and we welcome your input and support. Let us work together to ensure a cooperative and safe residential community. Please join your building association. The annual dues are $5 per family. We look forward to seeing you at the meeting on Tuesday. Light refreshments will be available.

Have an amazing week!

––Evelyn Herbert

Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 Association family and friends. Cooler mornings and evenings are upon us. Take along a sweater or light jacket.

After the recent shooting in Debs Place that resulted in the death of the victim, an added layer of security has been implemented by NYPD in conjunction with CCPD. The 45 Precinct has posted vehicles during evening/ night hours in the areas of Debs Place, Darrow Place, and Dreiser Loop.

Our first Building 9 Association general membership meeting for the 2025-2026 cycle is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room located in Building 9 B-side, rear of lobby. Please join us for information, engagement and empowerment. Our invited guest speaker will be Riverbay Corporation Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton. We always enjoy his visits.

Our 2025 Shirley Wells Back-to-school Raffle drawing is scheduled to be held on Saturday, September 20 at 1 p.m., in the Building 9 Association Room located in Building 9 B-side, rear of lobby. All participants are invited to join us for our raffle drawing, photo shoot and pizza party. We enthusiastically thank New York State Assembly Member Michael Benedetto for sponsoring our annual back-to-school raffle, which supports our students and families as they prepare for the new school year.

Please do not forcefully push open, restrict the motion of, nor use any object to prevent the door from closing. These actions cause the door to malfunction. Replacement of motors and other parts, plus labor costs thousands of dollars that could be better spent on shareholder service delivery.

For those who have asked about the Building 9 Association applying for 501(C)3 status, such status brings with it certain restrictions. Organizations with 501(c)(3) tax status are absolutely prohibited from participating in or intervening in any political campaign for or against candidates for public office. This prohibition applies to all levels of government, including federal, state and local elections.

Saturday, September 13, is the scheduled Section 1 Family Fun Day event in the open area behind Building 4 from 12 to 6 p.m. There will be free music, entertainment, games and food.

––Linda Collins

Broun Place Townhouse Association

This past week we remembered the horror and sadness of September 11, 2001. Please let us never forget.

Here we are on September 9 and as you know a quorum for our Board election still has not been reached. Please note that we did write, “our Board election,” yours and mine. We know it is our cooperators’ responsibility as Mitchell-Lama residents to participate in the process and vote in the Board election. What are you waiting for? The Co-op City Times told us how much it costs us to extend voting for the Riverbay Board of Directors. Cooperators and neighbors please recognize your Mitchell-Lama responsibilities. A Mitchell-Lama cooperator has the responsibility of voting for your Board of Directors. Your “Occupancy Agreement” tells you exactly what you need to do. Your job is to submit your ballot. Instead, non-voters are costing Coop City thousands of dollars forcing the extension of the deadline.

Our new CSO director, Milsa Vega, for Section 4, held a meeting Monday, August 11, to hear and discuss ongoing section and community issues. The next meeting is Monday, September 9. We requested the minutes to the ﬁ rst meeting but we are still waiting.

The mailing, “Property Registration Annual Form” from NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development” has been received by some. We should not be getting this form. Our address is part of Co-op City and not a private ownership address. This was to have been corrected, but

it was not. My advice is do not complete the form, and do not send a check. Please report to CCPD, 718-671-3050, or the 45th Precinct if you see a car without a placard parked illegally in the Broun Place cul-de-sac. Tickets will be issued to those without placards. Also, remember it is one space per car.

Again, regarding the annual Board election, save the corporation the expense of extensions by studying the candidates and vote. If you lose your ballot, call for a replacement.

Broun Place Townhouse Association accepts new members any time. The membership fees are $12 a year. Dues pay for supplies and they support emergency efforts. Please run for the Broun Place Townhouse Association Board of Directors. Remember, you must be a member of the association to do so. We encourage your participation in community events and make constructive suggestions to your board.

To report the non-delivery of the Co-op City Times , call 1-407-666-8317 on Saturdays, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. We urge you to read your Co-op City Times . We extend “Get Well Wishes” to all suffering from illness. Congratulations to all students starting off the new year. Good luck! Let us have a safe school year. Remember to use your words. Be safe, and in the case of inclement weather, tie up and close up your terrace accessories.

––Eva Kindaichi Lazaar

Building 13 Association

Building Association Meeting: Our first building meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 16 at 7 p.m. in the Association room located in the rear of the building under the portico. Our first scheduled guest will be Jr. Property Manager (CSO) Ms. Lois English. This is your opportunity to get involved. The success of our Building 13 Association depends on active participation from residents.

• Stay informed and voice your concerns.

• Share your ideas to help shape the future of our building. As of last week, we have a new janitorial supervisor covering our area. At our scheduled meeting we will share the name and contact information; and if you have additional questions, you can inquire from Ms. English.

I will be reposting the procedure you must follow to safeguard the elevators from damage when moving large items via the elevator. Aside from moving in or out utilizing the permit, you need one when moving items such as furniture and appliances. The posted permit information will include the proper department you would contact to secure the required permit.

We are scheduled soon to have our Amazon box installed under the portico of our building. When I know an exact date, I will post it on the board. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated in the U.S. every year from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. National Hispanic Heritage Month is annually observed in recognition of the contributions and influence of Hispanic culture to the nation’s achievements, culture, and history. Celebrate with the Spanish American Community Club on Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Dreiser Community Center. Admission is free.

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

Join the Youth Advisory Council: The Office of the Bronx District Attorney, Darcel Clark wants to empower Bronx students in grades 8-12 as advocates for meaningful change. Topics will include youth safety, gun violence, community engagement and understanding the criminal justice system. Deadline to apply is September 26, 2025. If you have questions, email: bxdayac@bronxda.nyc.gov. See the bulletin board for the QR code.

Section 2 Presents: Murder Mystery Aboard the RMS Titania Ready to have fun? Save the Date: October 4, from 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Get ready to gather your crew for an afternoon of in-depth investigation aboard the RMS Titania. A murder has taken place and you and your friends will either sink or swim trying to solve this mysterious crime. To RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1645441121689 . Additional information will be on the bulletin board this week, so do not miss the opportunity.

For additional information, contact: Jewel at 917-488-5237, Jackie at 917-217-6363, Tanya at 646-748-3142, Tracy at 646-234-4065, or Ms. King at Community@Riverbaycorp.com . Leave your name, address and cell number. We will return your call.

“Be not afraid of going slowly Be afraid of standing still.” – Chinese Proverb.

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

Building 10 Association

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

Bake Sale Fundraiser – Our annual bake sale fundraiser was held on September 8 and it was a huge success. Thank you to everyone who donated an assortment of baked goods. We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the support we received from everyone who participated and made this another successful venture. Special thanks to Lisa and Lenise for coordinating this event. A huge thank you to Carol, Phyllis and Jeannie for all your help.

General Membership Meeting – Our next general membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room located in the rear of Building 10B. Our guest speaker will be Mr. Andre Waring, Chief of CCPD. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. All questions must be submitted by 7 p.m. on the date of the meeting. Paper and pens will be available. We are looking forward to seeing everyone. Light refreshments will be served.

Tip Of The Week : Noise/Sounds – Noise/sound travels up, down and sideways. Let us remember, our neighbors may be on a different schedule and sleep during the day. Please be courteous to your neighbors regarding noise and sounds.

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

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

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

We would like to wish all who are born this month an incredibly happy birthday. Celebrating an anniversary this month? Happy anniversary! To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery. To all who have lost a loved one recently, we offer our deepest condolences.

“Believe in yourself, learn, and never stop wanting to build a better world.” Mary McLeod Bethune

Have a great week.

Jewel Crawford-Duncan

If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymoushotline by the following methods: Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services. com/riverbaycorp to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Email: reports@lighthouse-services.com; or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the email or fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

WHISTLEBLOWER ANONYMOUS HOTLINE

Building 28 Association

The Building 28 Association will have its next membership meeting on September 17 at 7:30 p.m., guest speaker tba. New cooperators welcome. Currently, we are waiting on floor restoration due to water damage in 28B. We will keep you informed if the meeting location is changed. Dues for calendar year 2025 are still being collected at $10 per family.

The secretary position shall be filled in September. If anyone else is interested and if there are any suggestions for the association, please send an email to: building28association@gmail.com . Come out, bring your neighbors and share your ideas on what activities you would like the Building 28 Association to participate in.

Love and condolences to the family and friends of Andrea Mayo, president of the Building 33 Association. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

The Riverbay Board of Directors election has been extended a third time, now ending September 30. Please let us get this done.

Let us make Building 28 a STAR building!

Did you know that every unit in Co-op City is eligible for the STAR Program? It does not cost you anything and there are no income requirements! Find out if you are eligible for either the Basic STAR (School Tax Relief Program) or the Enhanced STAR (Enhanced School Tax Relief age 65+). To complete your application online, go to: https://encryption. ny.gov or by phone 518-457-2036. For Enhanced STAR, go to: www.tax. ny.gov/STAR or view the information in the lobby display cases and adults age 60+ needing help to obtain and maintain entitlements and benefits call and schedule an appointment with a JASA or NORC Case Manager at 929-399-1371.

Gentle Reminders

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. Washing machines are only allowed in the townhouses.

Dogs: When in public spaces (that includes the lobbies, 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.

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.

––Brenda Brown

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry – 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). The pantry is open on Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. All guests must present a pantry card, at least four to six clean shopping bags with handles and a shopping cart to receive food. We will not place food in black bags because they pose a safety hazard. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. This distribution site is open Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The groceries are supplied by and distributed by Black Forum. Religious affiliation is not required. For the safety of our staff and other guests, mask-wearing is required when picking up food.

Our priority is to provide a safe and respectful environment for everyone accessing our services. To ensure the well-being of our staff, volunteers, and all guests, we 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.

Fresh Produce – Black Forum is distributing fresh produce to 2025 registered guests on Tuesday, September 16, from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Location: 920 Baychester Avenue. Please bring five to six strong, clean bags, your 2025 pantry card, and a sizable shopping cart. Please form a line away from the front door. Monthly packages will not be distributed on this day.

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

Fundraisers & Fun!

Support our community with a fun day out! Your participation in these events help cover the rent, insurance, and supplies needed to keep our Emergency Food Pantry running strong. Help us ensure local families have access to nutritious food and household supplies. Trips include transportation and dining:

Sight & Sound’s Joshua & Shady Maple Smorgasbord – Friday, August 21, 2026. Total: $225. We are accepting three payments of $75 each and are collecting deposits now. First payment to hold your seat is due 10/24/2025, second payment is due 02/14/2026, and third payment is due 04/18/26. Please be prompt with payments. No refunds. For trip interest only, please call 917-209-5334 or 929464-5520. All proceeds go to the Black Forum to support Co-op City through our Emergency Food Pantry. Look out for more information about Ace In the Hole which will include a luncheon and show, and Windows On The Lake with Jake’s 58 casino in Ronkonkoma, LI.

––D. Illis

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 on the fourth Sunday of the month at 3 p.m. The NAACP Co-op City Branch Office hours are: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Mondays & Wednesdays. Notary available on Monday and Wednesday during office hours; call for appointment.

National Voter Registration Day is Tuesday, September 16. It is a nonpartisan civic holiday dedicated to celebrating our democracy. Since its kickoff in 2012 the holiday and its tea of thousands of Partners have worked to get over 6 million Americans registered to vote in time for their next trip to the ballot box. The NAACP office will be open for registration, or if you changed your name since you last voted, got married or moved. Office hours: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

General Membership Meeting: The Labor Day weekend has come and gone. Hope everyone had an enjoyable summer.

Our monthly general membership meeting will resume on Sunday, September 28, at 3 p.m. Join the conversation: “Stopped? - Questioned?” Know Your Rights-4th, 5th, 6th Amendments of The United States.” Also, special guest speaker Katrina Dinham, PSS.org- Dementia - “Signs, Symptoms, HELP.”

Our NAACP zip down embroidered HOODIES will be on sale soon so look out for the flyer additionally you can order your T-Shirt at that time also. Save The Dates

New York State Conference Convention

October 10-12: 89th NAACP NY State Conference Convention – Marriott 101 James Doolittle Blvd. LI, NY.

Delegate’s, please let us know if you are interested.

• Delegates and alternates must be elected at our September General Membership Meeting. The convention registration process will be decided at the September meeting. We will consider two ways to handle registration:

• Register Delegates Collectively – register and pay for all delegates at once.

• Register Delegates Individually – each delegate register and pay separately.

NAACP Statement: If you believe in an inclusive community rooted in liberation where all persons can exercise their civil and human rights without discrimination there’s a place for you in our NAACP community. We will not let fear and division drive us further apart. We cannot succumb to apathy. We must come together to defend our friends, families, and neighbors. We never have and never will cower in the face of racism. The NAACP is leading the counter-offensive to vigorously defend our lives, our freedom, our history, and

American democracy on every front.

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

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

––Brenda Brown

Riverbay Telephone System Call Center:

Press 1 if you have a Public Safety emergency

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

Press 3 to schedule Extermination Services

Press 4 to reach Cooperator Services Office

Press 5 to reach the Rent Bookkeeper

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

Press 7 to reach Residential Sales

Press 8 to reach Co-op City Times

Press 9 to Dial by Directory

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

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

Coinmach Laundry - (800) 734-8851

Cablevision - (718) 617-3500

Cooperators United

Greetings, fellow Building Association and Townhouse Association presidents.

It is September and our first meeting of the 2025-2026 cycle will begin on Monday, September 29, at 7 p.m. in the Bartow Center, Rm. 31. Our meetings are for Building and Townhouse Presidents only, unless our secretary, Deborah Henry, is advised that the absent president will send a named designee.

Our meetings should be a forum for positive discussion of building association matters and community concerns that affect shareholders significantly. We endeavor to be a sounding board for best practices and solutions as shared by fellow presidents. Our goal is to assist each member to be the best Building or Townhouse Association leader possible.

We invite speakers to address local concerns.

The July Debs Place shooting incident is still under joint investigation by NYPD and CCPD. Police vehicles are assigned to Debs Place, Darrow Place, and Dreiser Loop during evening/night hours.

The Community Board #10 meeting will be held in the Bartow Center in November.

Reminder: Organizations with 501(c) (3) tax status are absolutely prohibited from participating in any political campaign for or against candidates for public office. This prohibition applies to all levels of government, including federal, state, and local elections.

Consolidation of power by any one person or group limits the ability to push back when your interests are no longer being served. It may be best to maintain separation of power and control.

Linda Collins

Goose Island Seniors

135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475

Goose Island Fall Party – Friday, Sept. 19, at 1 p.m. in our club, Rm. 39. Members only. Covered dish. Bring something or $20 donation.

Nordic Lodge Seafood Feast – Oct. 4. Call 646-579-1701.

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

Billy Joel, Elton John Tribute – Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, Oct. 11. Price: $170. Call 646-579-1701.

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.

Disney Cruise (Dream Ship) – Dec. 22-26. Prices starting at $2000 per person. Call 646579-1701. Booking ends Sept. 23.

2026 Mohegan Sun Casino – Tues., Jan. 22, 2026. Price: $70; no bonus, no food. 2026 Wind Creek Casino – Thurs., Feb. 19, 2026. Price: $70; bonus $25 for play. 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: 646579-1701

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

Bingo – Mon., Wed., and Fri., from 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 September: Veronica Mack, Rodney McFarlane, Sandra Cortez-Johnson, Ivelisse Santiago, John Turjak, Alma Alequin, Janice Brown, Lyone Hall, Gloria M. Bobyn, Pamela Rumph, Ola Waymmann, Carlton Lawrence, Elizabeth Anderson, and Majorie Yellon. Birthday cake celebration at our Fall Party on Sept. 19. September birthday members get free admission.

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

Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, in the Section 5 Community Center. Phone: 718-379-9613. Stephen cell: 347-847-1941 ( Zelle available). Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net. Cash App $StephenCarlSr. Membership dues $30 Yearly.

Good health to all. Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Laundry Room Etiquette & Safety

Cooperators, please pick up your discarded fabric softener sheets and plastic shopping bags from the floor in the laundry rooms, for your safety and that of your fellow neighbors.

Building 20 Association

Hello, neighbors.

I hope that you had a wonderful summer and are still enjoying the nice weather. The Building 20 Association will begin this season with our meeting on Thursday, September 18, at 7 p.m. in our meeting room at 120 Asch Loop. We have monthly meetings on the third Thursday of every month from September through June. At these meetings, we offer refreshments and an opportunity to participate in a 50-50 raffle drawing. Every family is encouraged to join the Building 20 Association for $10 a year and receive a membership card. All the residents of Section 4 are welcome to attend.

The Building 20 Association invites a guest speaker to the monthly meetings in order to keep the residents informed and updated on community affairs. We have had executives and managers from Riverbay Corporation, Directors from the Riverbay Board, and the Chief of the Public Safety Department. We have been successful in getting the Riverbay Maintenance Department to address our complaints, including buckling walls, lobby floors and doors, lighting, and more. We even sponsored a CPR class and invited the community.

While the Executive Board members pride themselves in presenting these informative building association meetings, we also have fun. We have decorated for Halloween and families have gathered for an afternoon of holiday fun. A meet and greet event occurred in each of our three building lobbies. On our agendas, we include community activities sponsored by churches, community organizations and building associations. We have also attended social events outside of Co-op City that residents have recommended. On sad occasions when a neighbor departs this life, they are remembered with their names on our Building 20 Association Memorial Plaque.

In accordance with the Building 20 Association Bylaws, there is an election for new officers every two years. I am so proud and thankful for these current dedicated officers, including: Laverne Hamilton, Vice President Sylvia Lewis, Recording Secretary Yvonne Mitchell, Treasurer

Esther Powell, Corresponding Secretary

These officers have already served three years and next year will be their last. Please consider running for office in May of 2026. Remember that this is your home. You can make it better. You can make things happen. We encourage you to show that you care by getting involved and attending the monthly gatherings.

We look forward to seeing you on Thursday, September 18, at 7 p.m.

Please stay safe and be a good neighbor.

Francine Jones, President

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

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

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10 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, September 13, at 8 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, September 19, at 6:57 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 our members who will be celebrating their birthday in September. 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

Newsong Church

What Happens After We Die?

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” 1 Thess 4:13

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Paul reminds us that for believers, death is not the end. It is a doorway into eternal life with Christ.

The world often views death with fear and uncertainty, but the biblical worldview is filled with hope. We needn’t be afraid of death because Jesus defeated hell, death, and the grave. And as believers, we share in that victory!

When our loved ones die, we mourn, but not without hope. Those who have trusted in Jesus are described as “asleep.” This points us to the promise of resurrection. Just as Christ rose from the grave, so will His followers. For the believer, death is not defeat but transition from the struggles of this life to the joy of God’s presence. Our sorrow is softened by the certainty that we will be reunited with loved ones in Christ and forever with the Lord.

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, & make a difference in this world! No matter what you’ve been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family. Check us out we’re located at 135 Einstein Loop!

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

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

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

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

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

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: 917-227-4303.

In-person worship service for The Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost will be conducted at the church on Sunday, September 14, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference. In the absence of Father Johnson, we will either have a supply priest or the Morning Prayer Service.

The daily noonday prayer service will resume on Monday, September 15. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344; Access Code: 509-898, followed by the # sign. As a reminder, Father Johnson, the Vestry, and other committees/groups are on summer break.

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

September 27: Dinner Sale. Kindly mark your calendars and plan to join us for our delicious home style dinners (including chicken, oxtails, and spare ribs) from 12 p.m. until sold out. You may also call in your orders ahead of time at 718-3200844. Members, please remember to wear your St. Joseph’s T-Shirts. Volunteers are reminded to meet at the church for preparation activities on Friday, September 26, at 5 p.m.

October 5: Women’s Sunday and Fellowship. Please let Valrie know if you plan to participate. You may also complete the sign-up sheet in the office area of the church. Members are reminded to wear white tops and black bottoms.

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 and/or send them a card.

Birthday Greetings: Best wishes and blessings to everyone celebrating a birthday this month.

We continue to collect only food (cans and dry goods) for the pantry at Grace Episcopal Church, West Farms. If you can, please contribute to those in need.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good: his mercy endures forever.” (Psalm 118:1)

Grace and Peace!

Merville Chambers

Pentecostal Tabernacle

100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, NY 10475.

Tel: 718-324-0334 or 718-320-4218

Worship service every Sunday morning from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the sanctuary. Wednesday: Fasting service every Wed. morning, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., online Bible study and prayer meeting will also be held on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.

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

All are welcome to attend.

All night services will be held on Zoom to join call 6469313860; Meeting ID: 85748454513; Code: 850684#.

Focus: The gospel message to the Gentiles.

The preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ brings conviction and salvation when preached to those who hunger for God.

Acts 10: 45-46, “And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.”

Cornelius was a Roman centurion, overseer of 100 soldiers, but daily he engaged the Lord in prayer. This devout man and his household feared God and gave generously to others.

Cornelius possessed a heart that hungered after God. Although he was a Gentiles and a member of the army, rising early with customary military disciplines initiated his day with spiritual training. God honored his spiritual hunger, and sent the apostle Peter, to whom Jesus had personally give the keys to the kingdom to go to Cornelius home.

Cornelius systematic devotion to the Lord resulted in his home being chosen as a place of power from which the Lord would project the gospel message to the gentiles. As on the day of Pentecost when the Jews received the Holy Ghost as evidenced by the speaking with other tongues, so the Gentiles began to receive the heavenly in the home of Cornelius

Though Peter was surprised to observe the Gentiles speaking with other tongues, still he commanded them to be baptized in Jesus’ name. Cornelius devotion provided a gateway for salvation through the Jewish population to the rest of the world. For salvation has come to the Gentiles. God had to find willing and dedicated individuals both to proclaim and to receive the gospel. Peter a Jewish apostle and Cornelius, a Roman officer, characterized godly men with vision. God always searches for people with vision to expand His purposes.

Peter received mission in a vision, and Carnelius received his orders from an angel in a vision from heaven and responded to it. This miraculous account of the gospel message spreading to the Gentiles population through the influence of Cornelius and the apostle Peter graphically illustrates many significant truths. One point of truth is that God honors people with spiritual hunger, Wheater they are Jews or Gentiles. Another truth vividly illustrated in this account is that God is no respecter of persons. Peter’s message gave an eyewitness account of the fact that Jesus is the living Word. Moreover, the Gentiles received the Holy Ghost in the same way as the Jews, by the outward evidence of speaking with tongues.

Rev. R. Sibblies

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.

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” — John 8:32 (NIV)

We live in a world flooded with misinformation and shifting values, making it hard to know what—or who—to trust. But the truth we need isn’t just an idea; it’s a person. Jesus, the Living Word, the Truth, and the Life, offers a relationship that brings true freedom. His voice cuts through the noise with clarity and grace. When we abide in His Word, we don’t just gain knowledge—we encounter freedom. But where do we find this truth?

In John 8:32, Jesus speaks of spiritual freedom—freedom from sin, guilt, and death. This truth is found in God's Word. As John 17:17 says, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” Scripture not only reveals who God is and what He has done but also reminds us of our calling to respond—to live out the truth we receive.

Jesus affirms in Luke 11:28, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” The blessing isn’t in just hearing—it’s in obedience. As we walk in God’s truth, we become lights in a world searching for hope.

The stories of faith, endurance, and redemption in Scripture—from ordinary people trusting an extraordinary God—point to His love and His redemptive plan through Christ. Therefore, Christians, are called to carry that truth forward—not just by teaching it, but by living it.

Let’s be people who don’t just know the Word, but embody it—daily, boldly, and with love. In doing so, we become living testimonies of the freedom only God’s truth can bring.

Come and Receive a Blessing: All are Welcome!

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

Grief Share resumes in Rm. 43 at the Einstein Community Center:

• Tuesday, September 9, at 1 p.m. for newcomers.

• Wednesday, September 10, at 3 p.m. for continuation from prior sessions.

Bible Study Resumes on Wednesday, September 17, at 7 p.m. via Zoom: 904468-5745. Book: Esther

Thursdays: Pantry and in-person Prayer Meeting at 11a.m. Upcoming Events – Save The Dates

Sunday, September 14: Escuela Dominical at 11:15 a.m.

English Service at 11:15 a.m.

Servicio en Español at 12:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 20: Flea Market from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact Pauline Taylor at 718-320-1552 or Jackie Dove at 361-249-7033.

Sunday, September 21: Bilingual Service at 11:15 a.m. Escuela Dominical at 10 a.m. Administrative Council Meeting after service.

Saturday, October 11: Hoedown, Fundraiser for Grief Share at Co-op City UMC from 3-7 p.m.

Grace Abadia

Community Protestant Church

Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family welcome you to worship with us. We are located at 2053 Asch Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. You may contact us by phone: 718-862-9172, fax: 718-671-4416 or email: Administration@thecpcchurch.org.

Worship Schedule

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

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

Every Wednesday – 6:45 p.m. Online Bible Study via Zoom. Log in on Zoom. com or dial One Tap Mobile: 929-205-6099, 838-454-0093 or 646-931-3860. Meeting ID: 886 1355 3980.

Praise and Worship. My hallelujah belongs to You! That was Deacon James Tidball’s testimony. Back among us, he said he counts on God with his whole heart and doesn’t let a day go by without praising His name. Hallelujah! Deacon Tidball prayed invoking His presence and read 1 Corinthians 4:1-5. The congregation celebrated God by singing “Glory to His Name.” The Praise Team rendered “My Hallelujah Belongs to You” before Pastor Owens introduced Rev. Audrey Jones, Friendly Baptist Church, our guest preacher. He also requested a song from her because she can sing! She sang “God’s Grace” then preached, “You Can Trust Jesus Even in the Midst of the Storm.” Please read Mark 4:35-41. Even as Rev. Jones sits in her own storm, mourning the passing of her brother and her sister, she preached. She said praise Him even through your struggles. Have faith not fear, Jesus is with us always no matter what. He will bring you peace. Just call Him. He will answer. Yes Lord! We want to thank our visitors for fellowshipping with us. Are you looking for a church home? Are you looking to feel connected? Our hearts are open. We welcome you to come hear the good news of Jesus and experience all the new possibilities at Community Protestant, a church of love and understanding. Please remember Adult Sunday School is back in session. Class begins promptly at 9:15 a.m. and Morning Worship is at 11 a.m.

Our sincere and heartfelt condolences are extended to Rev. Jones and those in a season of mourning. To all our sick and home bound members please know your presence is missed and we are praying mightily for you and for your speedy recovery. We send our best Happy Birthday wishes to Deacon Queen Esther Dixon, (September 11), First Daughter Olivia Owens, Dorcas Prayer Shawl recipient and everyone celebrating their special day this month.

“And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” Mark 4:39

Lexa M. Mingo

Greater Love Refuge Ministries, Inc

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul: He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” Psalm 23:1-3

Spiritual Food for Thought: Let go of those things that did not work out as you imagined they would. Embrace the reality of things as they are without regret. There were lessons to learn that will be of great benefit as you forge ahead. The fog will lift and you will see things from a divine perspective instead of allowing your emotions to rule.

Greater Love Refuge Ministries, Inc., is a non-denominational, multi-generational, teaching, preaching, faith & Bible-way church conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd. (Bldg. 2A), on the ground level, Bronx, NY 10475; enter by way of the main entrance or the portico. We would love for you to join us for our morning worship service on Sundays at 11:30 a.m. It’s a special time for us to come together as a community and connect with God. At Greater Love, you’ll find a supportive and friendly atmosphere; come as you are—no expectations, just a warm welcome.

Please note that Sunday morning Bible school will be back in session beginning October 5, at 10:30 a.m. sharp! All are invited to our multigenerational teaching with Presiding Elder Carol Landrum.

Greater Love will host a Fish Fry Fundraiser at our church on Saturday, September 20, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Entrées: Fried whiting ($13)/ porgy ($14) shrimp($15). Entrees come with 2 sides/roll/green salad; Fish sandwich on a potato roll/1 side ($9). Sides: Cabbage, collards, mac & cheese, potato salad, spaghetti & marinara sauce. Deserts: cupcakes ($1), carrot cake ($2). You tried the rest, now try the absolute best! We look forward to seeing you – look for the sign near the backdoor. See our flyer posted on lobby bulletin boards.

Are you or someone you know in need of prayer? We invite you to join our weekly Prayer Line every Wednesday afternoon at 12:30 p.m.-1 p.m. and Thursday evening beginning at 8 p.m. and one of our prayer warriors will pray for you. You are welcome to listen quietly, bring a testimony of praise, a Scripture reading, a song or a specific prayer request. The callin number is 351-999-3024; no access code required. As a general courtesy, please mute your phone upon entry and when not speaking.

Grace & Peace

Presiding Elder Carol Landrum

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

JASA Bartow OAC Excursion Trip to Wind Creek Shopping Mall and Casino on Saturday, Dec. 6. Cost: $70 per person and $30 deposit required to sign up. Must pay at the Bartow Center only.

Bartow OAC Trip to Sight & Sound to see “Joshua” is on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Lunch at the amish, all-you-can-eat, Shady Maple. Cost: $230; $50 deposit is required to sign up, and payments are at the Bartow OAC only.

In-Person Computer Class on Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m., at the Bartow NORC office. Caringkind: The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving Rep. will be in the Bartow main

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

Walk w/Odessa, 10-11

a.m.

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

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

Smart/phone & Tablet

Class w/Julesa, 1:45-2:45 p.m.

Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa

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.

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

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

office every third Monday of the month, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., for Alzheimer & Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation and other services. Please call 646-744-2921 for an appt.

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

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

Notary JASA NORC Office – Weds. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-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 appt.

Mindful Mornings 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. (Appt. only)

Movie w/ Dennis: “The Magnificent 7,” 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.

Trip: Buena Vista Social Club

Play

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

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

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

Tech with 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, 11 a.m. -12 p.m.

Lunch & Learn: Life Insurance, 12-1 p.m.

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

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

Weekend Recap Discussion, 9-10 a.m. Stay Well Exercise w/ Denise, 10-11 a.m., Aud. A

Lesisure Tv, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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!

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

LUNCH: KOSHER: Chicken Fricassee, Whole Wheat Spaghetti, Italian Blend Vegetables; NON KOSHER: Spanish Style Beef Stew, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

Diabetes Testing & Information Event w/ Emblem Health, 1:15-2:15 p.m., Rm. 4 Yoga Class w/Adira, 1:15-2:15 p.m., Rm. 2

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

Art w/ Gerry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Leisure Games w/Clara, 1-3:30 p.m. Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Crafts w/ Roselen, 1-2 p.m. Tai Chi w/Jimmy, 2-3 p.m., Aud. A Computer & Tablet Class w/Ralph 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. (Virtual)

Massage Therapy w/ Diana (call for appointment), 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2

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

Technology Class w/ Steve, 1:15-2:15 p.m.

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

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

Leisure TV, 2-4 p.m.

KOSHER: No Dinner Served; NON KOSHER: No Dinner Served

LUNCH: KOSHER: Moroccan Salmon, Roasted Potatoes &Vegetables; NON KOSHER: Baked Fish w/ Sweet & Sour Sauce, Pasta, Normandy Blend

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Baked Breaded Fish, Baked Potato, Steamed Sliced Carrot, Orange; NON KOSHER: Spanish Style Beef Stew, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli, Apple

LUNCH : KOSHER: Beef Meatloaf, Baked Brown Rice Pilaf, Sauteed String Beans; NON KOSHER: Chicken Breast & Rice, Boiled Southern Greens

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Beef Meatloaf, Brown Rice, Sauteed String Beans, Apple; NONKOSHER: Baked Fish in Sweet & Sour Sauce, Penne Pasta, Normandy Blend Vegetables, Orange

LUNCH: KOSHER: Plant Based Cuban Black Beans, Yellow Rice, Vegetables Mix; NON KOSHER: Plant Based Pumpkin & Chickpea Curry, White Rice, Italian Cut Green Beans

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER : July, August & September Birthday; NON-KOSHER : July, August & September Birthday

Line Dance w/ Cynthia, 12:301:45 p.m.

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

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley, 2-4:30 p.m., Bartow OAC, Rm. 31

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley 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 Satur days, 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the back of JASA NORC Of fice

Trip: American Dream Mall Coloring for Calmness, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

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

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

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

p.m.

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

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

Blood Pressure Screening, 10:3012 p.m.

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

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

Health & Wellness 2.0 (The Power of Self Care), 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1-2 p.m.

Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

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

Sewing Class w/ Joy, 9-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Alert & Alive w/ Cathy & Essie, 10-11 a.m., Rm.4

LUNCH : KOSHER: Roasted Chicken Legs, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Spiced Mixed Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Jerk Chicken, Black Beans & Rice, Italian Blend Vegetables

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

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

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

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

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.

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Roasted Chicken, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Spiced Mixed Vegetable, Peach; NON-KOSHER: Punmpkin & Chickpea Curry, White Rice, Italian Cut Green Beans, Banana

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

KOSHER: Moroccan Salmon, Roasted Potato, Steamed Vegetables, Kiwi; NONKOSHER: Jerk Chicken, Black Bean & Rice, Italian Blend Vegetables, Orange

Bartow

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 9 a.m., in-person and on Zoom. Sunday School classes are suspended for the summer. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 50 (lower level), Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone: 718-3203774. Email: ccbc135@optimum.net or coopcitybc@gmail.com. Website: www. coopcitybaptistchurch.org. Masks are optional.

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, the Access Code is 660065#.

Rev. Williams asks everyone who calls into the Sunday Worship service to use Zoom through your computer or dial-in using the Zoom information shown above. Tomorrow, Sunday, September 14, at our 9 a.m. service, we will celebrate our Family and Friends Day. The theme is “Love Binds Family and Friends Together in Perfect Unity,” John 15:12-13. Our very own Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams, will deliver the message. Everyone is invited.

This week’s events: Wednesday Bible Study Classes at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Zoom. Prayer Warriors Prayer Service on Thursday at 12 p.m. is on the church conference call line. On Thursday at 2 p.m., the Circle of Grace Knit and Crochet Group will meet in person at the Church, Rm. 51. Friday Mid-Morning Prayer Service at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Friday Evening Prayer Service is on the church conference call line.

The Scholarship Ministry will be cruising Alaska on the beautiful Holland America Eurodam ship. They invite you to sail with them on July 18–July 25, 2026. The following prices include cost of cruise, airfare, taxes and transfers. Inside stateroom, $3,235; Oceanview stateroom, $3,533; Balcony stateroom, $4,171. All prices are per person. A deposit of $400 per person for double occupancy or $800 for single occupancy must be made no later than Sunday, November 2, 2025. Final payment is due by March 29, 2026. Please make your initial deposit no later than Sunday, November 2, 2025. You may choose to use a credit card to make your initial deposit and pay insurance costs (We highly recommend you buy insurance protection). To make your deposit using a credit card, contact: Hermena Smith, at 646-780-9813. If paying by check, contact Sis. Claudette Cutlar Day or Sis. Brenda Robinson. All future payments must be made by check or money order payable to Co-op City Baptist Church. For additional information, contact Sis. Claudette Cutlar Day at 718-379-0541 or Sis. Brenda Robinson at 718-671-1271.

“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

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: 718-6718746 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 ”

Come Fellowship With Us: Adult and Youth Sunday School begins at 9:30 a.m. Sunday morning worship service is 11 a.m. All are welcome. 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 646-7699900; Access Code: 3099388# Please mute your phone.

Worship Message: “The Might and Grace of the Lord”

Scripture Lesson: (Isaiah 40:28-31): “Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strengeth. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

Save the Dates

Saturday, September 27 – Prayer Breakfast at 10 a.m Theme: “Ask, Seek, Knock” (Matthew 7:7). All are welcome. Free will offering. Please RSVP: Sis. Sadie James, 917-667-4229, or Sis. Hermena Smith 718-708-5035.

Saturday, October 18 – Join us for our “In the Potter’s Hand” one-day Women’s Fellowship Conference, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of Christian fellowship, workshops and lunch. This event is open to all women committed to deepening their trust in the potter as he molds us to his likeness. To RSVP and for more information, please contact Sis. Loretta Scott at 718-671-2623.

Sunday, November 16 – Church 53rd Anniversary Celebration

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.

Brenda Brown

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

Seeing God

How can we see God? Is there any tangible evidence for God that can lead us to understand Him and be in relationship with Him? Has He revealed Himself in ways we can understand and see Him? Paul, in the book of Romans, explicitly lays out the evidence for God and humanity’s willful denial of it.

Romans 1:20, “Since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, his eternal power and divine nature, are clearly seen, understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”

The Bible postulates that from the beginning God has revealed Himself through creation. Although He is unseen His work is visible everywhere. Every person is born with the innate knowledge that we are not self-sufficient. Solomon in the book of Ecclesiastes says God placed eternity in our hearts.

Romans 1:21-23, “For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like human beings and birds and animals and reptiles.”

We can see God everywhere, but we prefer to darken our souls to avoid responsibility for our actions. We exchange God’s wisdom with lust and foolishness. We become senseless and arrogance as we move away from God’s wisdom and consider ourselves superior even while diminishing God’s power.

Romans 1:24-25, “Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.”

Why is the world suffering so much? Because we have made the decision to deny God although he’s right in our face. When we examine the incredible creation, we should fall on our knees and worship. Creation is yelling at us that God is real and present to us.

Schedule (147 Dreiser Loop)

First Sunday of the month, bilingual communion service at 10:30 a.m.

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

Tuesday: Prayer at 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.