Co-op City Times 11-15-25

State Updates Qualifications for Civil Service Jobs

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New York State announced changes to the existing qualifications for civil service jobs on October 28.

In an effort to provide more employment opportunities to a larger number of New Yorkers, the Department of Civil Service officially updated the minimum qualifications for hundreds of state jobs so that, going forward, those positions will consider what the state called “equivalent experience as an alternative for college degrees.”

A total of 800 titles and over 20,000 positions are affected by the new qualifications, according to Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office. Notably, 150 of the 800 titles are entry-level positions open to the public across a variety of fields.

Visit cs.ny.gov to learn more about how to apply for a Civil Service examination. In order to apply for a Civil Service examination, an applicant must first have a ny.gov ID. For those

without a ny.gov ID, visit cs.ny.gov/ home/myaccount to create one. New York typically announces the date for upcoming state civil service examinations about two months prior to the actual test date with the deadline to sign up one month before the respective test date.

New York then releases the scores for civil service exams within three months of the exam date unless a large number of people take the exam, in which case, results will take longer to return. When those scores are finalized, candidates can expect to receive an email regarding their results. A passing score is a 70, and those who pass are then ranked based on their scores.

Governor Hochul discussed the reason behind opening up state jobs to more people with equivalent experience on October 28.

“Many jobseekers have gained valuable real-world work experience in their careers and can use their

(Continued on page 2)

Louis Silberberg: Celebrating 102 Years of a Life of Courage, Resilience, and Love

Co-op City centenarian Louis Silberberg was born on November 12, 1923, and celebrated his 102nd birthday this week.

Surrounded by his family and Co-op City friends and neighbors, Mr. Silberberg marked the auspicious occasion during the Bodies in Motion class with Ms. Ola, held in Dreiser Auditorium A on Thursday, Nov. 13.

Seated: Louis Silberberg with daughters Helene and Francine. Standing: Sal Morello, Chief- of-Staff to Senator Bailey (l), and Jahmal Yapp, Dep. Chief-of-Staff

Mr. Silberberg has been a regular attendee of the class, and several others, for more than the past 10 years and during that time, has forged strong friendships

with his instructors and other particpants who attended activities at the JASA Dreiser Senior Center. The organizers provided lunch and a birthday cake. Al Quattlebaum, president of the Building 2 Association, introduced Jahmal Yapp, Deputy Chief-of-Staff to City Council Member Kevin Riley and Sal Morello, Chiefof-Staff to State Senator Jamaal Bailey, who presented Mr. Silberberg with a City Council Citation and a State Senate

(Continued on page 4)

November & December Open Board Meetings

Shareholders are advised that due to the upcoming holiday season, the Riverbay Board of Directors will not meet in open session this month (November) and next month, December. Open Board meetings will resume in January 2026. The Board wishes shareholders an enjoyable and safe Holiday season.

Food Resources for Shareholders

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

Shareholders who are experiencing food insecurity should be aware of several available food distribution programs that can help.

Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry – located at 920 Baychester Ave. in Bldg. 1A. The pantry is open on Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. All guests must present a pantry card, at least 4-6 clean shopping bags with handles and a shopping cart to receive food. Section 5 shareholders can pick up food at the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, call 718-320-8035.

Co-op City SDA Church Food Pantry – located at 1010 Baychester Ave. The pantry is open on Wednesday from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. For more information, call 718-320-0518

JASA – for seniors (age 60 and older), JASA hosts a monthly food distribution in partnership with Common Pantry. Please see the JASA page in the weekly Co-op City Times for information or call JASA at (718) 320-2066.

Groceries to Go – Groceries to Go provides eligible New Yorkers with monthly credits to purchase groceries for delivery or pickup. Credits can be used to purchase Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)-eligible foods and beverages through an online platform that links to hundreds of grocery stores across New York City. The credits can also be used to pay for service fees, tips and delivery. To find out if you are eligible, call 347-665-0175. For more information about the program, visit nyc.gov/health/groceriestogo or email groceriestogo@health.nyc.gov.

To find more food providers in the Bronx, visit on.nyc.gov/FoodPantry.

to CM Kevin Riley. Photo by Brandi Simpson

Service Job––––– (Continued from page 1)

unique skills and talents to contribute to New York’s dedicated public workforce,” Gov. Hochul said. “This common sense change, which is already used by many employers in the private and public sectors nationwide, will eliminate a barrier to rewarding careers faced by many prospective public servants and allow them to put their experience to work to benefit all New Yorkers.”

Gov. Hochul’s office pointed out that the degree requirements for many middle-skill jobs are unattainable for individuals without a Bachelor’s degree, thereby restricting the potential pool of candidates.

New York now joins Maryland, Pennsylvania and New Jersey in allowing relevant experience as an alternative to a Bachelor’s degree for state jobs.

Parking and Bike Enforcements

Co-op City Public Safety Department (CCPD) is cracking down on illegally parked vehicles without proper agency placards on display. These vehicles will be ticketed.

In addition, bicycles and motorbikes chained to light poles and fences around the community will be removed. Bike owners are advised to utilize the bike racks installed at the front of residential buildings and at the community centers.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work to maintain the quality of life of Co-op City shareholders.

––CCPD

If your apartment door or the stairwell door on your floor does not self-close, contact Maintenance immediately at 718-320-3300, select option 2, for an appointment to address this condition.

GOT FOOT PAIN? CO-OP CITY FOOT CARE CENTER

Co-op City Times

COMBING

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

Free Catalytic Converter Etching

NYPD Community Affairs Bureau, Crime Prevention Division, is offering free auto theft safety and prevention tips on Sunday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Orchard Beach parking lot.

Free catalytic converter etching will be offered to all vehicle owners and auto theft safety tips will be provided by the NYPD Crime Prevention Division.

Farmers Market

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

Calling All Vendors

Interested in becoming a vendor for Co-op City’s Holiday Market? Pick up your application in the reception area of the Bartow Center, at 2049 Bartow Avenue. For more information, email community@riverbaycorp. com.

Polar Express Pajama Movie Night

All aboard! Come out and join CCPD for the Polar Express Pajama Movie Night in Dreiser Auditorium B. The event will be held on Wednesday, November 26, at 6 p.m. For more information, contact community@ riverbaycorp.com

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.

BY Antonio Codrington

2nd Front Page

American Legion Post 1871 Annual Veterans Commemoration in Co-op City a Rousing Success!

On Saturday, November 8, under the banner, “Thank You to Our Heroes – Everyone Working to Keep our World and Communities Going,” the American Legion Post 1871 commenced the annual Veterans Day in Co-op City Partnership Program. Under this motto, the morning started with exercises to stimulate the mind, body and soul for early attendees participating in dancing exercises. Thanks to Co-op City’s Lynn Horton and Orisha Wellness, she set the stage for the Veterans Day afternoon ceremonial. Through these exercises, the Post officially commenced celebration of our nation’s semi quincentennial (250 years of the US Military) anniversary. Starting January 2026, the “American Legion’s USA 250 Challenge” will be fully activated. This national program will “help honor our veterans and uplift communities nationwide while promoting physical fitness, mental wellness, and community service.” In our December article, the Post will publish monthly wellness workshops, with support from our community partners for veterans, family members, and caregivers. Stay tuned!

The Opening Prayer by Legionnaire Renee “Juice” Richardson set the tone for the ceremony. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and singing of the “National Anthem,” the colors were posted ceremonial by the rising Truman High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp (AF JRROTC) Program cadets. They flawlessly carried out the assignment – a job well done by our future military leaders!

City

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City will invest $40 million to bring seating to more bus stops across the five boroughs.

Mayor Eric Adams delivered the news alongside New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez on October 30. With the investment, roughly 8,750 bus stops that currently do not have any seating will have new seating added. The city and DOT will focus only on bus stops that are on public property with enough spacing logistically for the upgrades. Starting this month, the city will begin a sequence of installments over the next decade to bring benches or leaning bars to 875 bus stops each year while also maintaining current seating areas. Mayor Adams’ Office highlighted that “nearly two-thirds of eligible bus stops do not have seating.”

Both the Mayor and Commissioner echoed similar sentiments about the need to provide seating, with Mayor Adams hoping the additions will “give New Yorkers a break and transform the bus-riding experience for thousands of people.” Commissioner Rodriguez also detailed how seating impacts the rider’s experience saying, “For many New

Colonel Joan R. Davis (Ret.) set the tone for the real meaning of Veterans Day during the ceremonial Opening Remarks. Using her own experience, she recollected the support she received from her Post as her past Co-op City community while deployed in 2005-2006 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. She later connected with the audience by describing the hardships veterans are enduring in these present times. She reminded us that if it is not an illegal order, soldiers are mandated to carry out orders given. Given this understanding, whenever or wherever you encounter a veteran, thank them for their service to this great nation. Let us also not forget the extended veterans’ family for their first-line support to the brave men and women. The highlight of the ceremony was the awarding of appreciation trophies to three Legionnaires with 30 or more years of continuous membership in our Post and one Honorary Member in attendance: 101 year old Santiago Rodriguez, Jr., US Navy, stationed on USS Hornet Ship (pictured left); Kenneth Nelson, who has maintained continuous activation of his Post 1871 membership for 53 years, and Norman Thomas, 41 years (pictured right); and Dean Fusco (not pictured).

Thank you for invaluable support from the offices of Assemblyman Michael Benedetto; US Congressman George Latimer, who gave brief Veterans Day remarks from his assistant’s smartphone; and the office of Council Member Kevin Riley. Not pictured was a representative from Project Advocacy Group.

Lastly, a hearty “Thank You” to Bay Plaza Mall, and the behind the scene Riverbay coordinator, Tamira King, and her team.

Contact Us: American Legion Post 1871, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 41, Bronx, NY 10475; (718) 320-8165; email: americanlegion@post1871.net; website: https: www.legion.org

Invests $40M to Install Seating at Bus Stops

Yorkers, having a place to sit at the bus stop is more than just a matter of comfort, it’s a matter of whether they can take the bus at all.”

In a related note, riders who use a MetroCard should be aware that the MTA will officially stop selling MetroCards on December 31, 2025. After this time, existing MetroCards will still be accepted until 2026 but will no longer be refillable. The MTA recommends using the remaining funds on MetroCards before the card expires, while also pointing out that “remaining balances will be eligible for transfer or reimbursement for two years after the expiration date on the MetroCard.”

Instead of MetroCards, the MTA is switching entirely to the OMNY tap-and-go payment system where riders use either a physical OMNY card, debit card or credit card to pay their fare. For those who would prefer a physical OMNY card, they are available for purchase at an OMNY vending machine, which are in all subway stations, as well as in select stores and pharmacies.

In the near future, the MTA will increase fares in January 2026 for buses, subways and commuter rails across the board, in tandem with (Continued on page 4)

Truman High School ROTC Cadets.

Santiago Rodriguez, Jr.

Kenneth Nelson (L) and Norman Thomas (R).

Representatives from the offices of local elected officials.

Celebrating 102 ––––––

(Continued from page 1)

Proclamation, respectively, to mark the occasion.

Mr. Silberberg was born in the small Polish village of Wishkov to Shlomo and Frummet Silberberg. He grew up with two brothers in a modest, shared home without electricity, running water, or an indoor bathroom. Though life was simple, it was rich with love and community.

Louis lost his mother to illness at a young age. He apprenticed first as a haberdasher and later as an electroplater, but his early ambitions were cut short in 1939 when war reached Poland. As the Nazis advanced, his father made the painful decision to send Louis and his cousin, Avrohom, across the border into Russia, hoping to save them.

What followed was a journey of unimaginable hardship. Louis fled across the Soviet Union, taking whatever work he could—often on railroads—simply to survive. He eventually found refuge in Uzbekistan near the Chinese border, where he endured the war years in solitude—but alive.

When the war ended, Louis returned to Poland only to discover that his entire family had perished in the Holocaust. With nothing left, he sought a new beginning. He reached the American sector of Berlin and, in 1949, secured passage to the United States. On August 14 of that year, he arrived in New York aboard the military ship General Heintzelman, where his aunt, uncle, and cousins welcomed him on the Lower East Side.

Determined to rebuild, Louis attended night school to learn English while working tirelessly to establish himself. In May 1955, he married Celia, the love of his life. He began as an employee in a women’s shoe factory, later becoming its owner. When that business closed, he partnered with fellow survivors in a women’s knitwear import company and eventually managed a network of sweater saleswomen across the city.

Louis and Celia raised two daughters, and he was a deeply devoted father. Every summer, he sent his family “to the country” in upstate New York to escape the city heat, ensuring his children enjoyed the carefree childhood he had been denied. His devotion continued through the generations, always visiting children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whether in Queens or Florida.

In the spring of 1969, Louis and his young family moved from the West Bronx (Plimpton Avenue) to Co-op City, becoming residents of the second building to open. Before Co-op City’s construction, the area had been home to the famous amusement park Freedomland. For his daughters, the move was thrilling — a brand-new apartment with central air conditioning and gleaming hardwood floors felt like a dream. Louis quickly became part of the community, joining the local bowling league and later taking advantage of the Truman High School pool for weekly senior swim sessions.

Together, Louis and Celia shared a love of travel, exploring destinations from Alaska and Nova Scotia to Colombia and Israel. They also enjoyed the excitement of casinos, often visiting Atlantic City, Mohegan Sun, and Foxwoods. With a sharp mind and a gift for numbers, Louis delighted in teaching his children and grandchildren how to play card games.

As Celia’s health declined, Louis became her dedicated caregiver, managing her medications and insulin with the same steadfastness that had defined his life. Even in his later years, his strength and resilience never faltered. After surviving pneumonia and a collapsed lung, he returned to walking to the JASA Dreiser Senior Center, where he still participates in Zumba and exercise classes.

Now, at 102 years old, Louis Silberberg stands as a living testament to courage, resilience, and enduring love. A survivor of history’s darkest chapter, he built a life filled with family, laughter, and hope. To all who know him, Louis is not only a survivor, but an inspiration.

Ms. Ola Waymmann is instructor of the Bodies in Motion, Zumba, Stretch & Tone, held weekly in the JASA Dreiser Center.

“He was one of my first students when I started over 10 years ago; he never ever left me and we do the waltz, we do ballet. He’s just a blessing to me,” said Ms. Ola. “When my machinery wouldn’t work, he said, ‘No, no, we’re going to take a collection for her’. He is the sweetest man…I love him. God bless him.”

“I love having Louis in the line dance class,” said Ms. Sassy, instructor. “He moves, he knows all the steps; he does it his way, and we all love him. He has been participating for more than ten years, not only in my class, but he does Damien, he does Ola and he does Sassy several times a week. He’s a trooper. Louis, happy 102nd birthday.”

In addition to his friends and neighbors in the JASA activity groups, Mr. Silberberg was joined at the Nov. 13th celebration by his two daughters, Helene San and Francine Kravitz; sons-in-law Mark Kravitz and Perry San; and one of his three grandson, Bobby San.

(See page 14 for photos)

Bus Stops –––––

(Continued from page 3)

the retirement of the MetroCard and switch to the OMNY tap-and-go payment system. Local buses, subways, and Access-A-Ride fares will increase from $2.90 to $3. The reduced fare for local buses, subways and Access-A-Ride will increase from $1.45 to $1.50. Express bus fares will increase from $7 to $7.25, and the reduced fare for express buses will increase from $3.50 to $3.60. Notably, the fee for a new OMNY card will also increase from $1 to $2.

In Co-op City, the MTA increased local service on June 29 for three bus routes that shareholders frequent: the Bx23 (Co-op City to Pelham Bay Park Station), the Bx28 (Co-op City to Fordham Center) and the Bx38 (Co-op City to Norwood 205th Street Station). The MTA revised the scheduling for those routes to improve wait times.

“Frequency improvements were targeted to peak periods when buses are most crowded. Increased service will reduce wait times by as much as two and a half minutes on certain routes,” the MTA said on June 27.

Building 20 Association

Greetings,

The next meeting of the Building 20 Association is scheduled for Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m. in the Building 20 Association room in Building 20B. All of our friends and neighbors are welcome. Our guest speaker will be the newly elected Bronx County Civil Court Judge Shekera Anessa Algarin, Esq., who will speak about Wills and Trusts. You can learn the benefits of creating these documents and having them in place for your family. Also, a representative from the FDNY has been invited to discuss and clarify the instructions for those who want to learn more about decorating in public spaces. If you have questions, come out and get the answers.

Please invite your neighbors to attend with you. You will have the opportunity to pay your $10 dues, if you have not already paid since September. Take your chances on our 50-50% raffle drawing and enjoy the refreshments that we offer. We look forward to seeing you. Until then, stay safe and be a good neighbor.

––Francine Jones

Statepoint Media – Theme: Nursery Rhymes

ACROSS

1. Type of haircut, pl.

5. Tiny helper

8. *What rain does in famous nursery rhyme

12. What accomplices do

13. Ring like a bell

14. Sign of life

15. Lascivious look

16. Pretentiously artistic

17. Tiny island

18. *Bring her back! (2 words)

20. Nicholas II of Russia, e.g.

21. Inmate with life sentence

22. *One for Sorrow (Two for ____)

23. Melville’s “Pequod,” e.g.

26. More fancy

30. Request for tailor

31. Encoded message

34. Land measure

35. Omit

37. *Hush-a-bye, baby. ___ still”

38. Take a base

39. Hokkaido native

40. Veal serving

42. Beehive State native

43. What Cupid did (2 words)

45. *Tip me over!

47. Lt.’s inferior

48. Plant louse

50. “Pay as you earn” tax system

52. *How do your ears wobble? (3 words)

56. Sacha Cohen’s middle name

57. Render speechless

58. Medley

59. Apathetic

60. Not tanned

61. Nearly

62. Bird’s groomer

63. It’s open to interpretation

64. #57 Down, pl.

DOWN

1. It’s soothing

2. Do as directed

3. British Broadcasting Corporation, colloquially

4. Take a leisurely walk

5. Chill-inducing

6. Procrastinator’s word

7. *What the old lady swallowed

8. *She’s been to London to visit the Queen

9. Paella pot

10. ____-friendly

11. Expose to moisture

13. One way to cook fish

14. Mountain climber’s spike

19. Brother’s daughter

22. *Who stole the cookie from the cookie ____?

23. Semolina source

24. Sunny prefix

25. Kind of acid

26. Perceive by touch

27. Frost over (2 words)

28. One of the Muses

29. Find new tenant

32. *What Jack Horner pulled out

33. Not miss

36. *____ of ____, he had ten thousand men

38. Beer garden mug

40. Post-Soviet Union alliance, acr.

41. C2H6, flammable gas

44. With regard to, archaic

46. Software plug-ins

48. Rose oil

49. Young chicken

50. Window glass

51. Geometric calculation

53. Buy and resell

54. Baltic capital

55. Sounds of amazement

56. Baby’s apron

57. Self-care resort

(See answer key on page 22)

Board of Directors’ Meeting - October 29, 2025

Second Reading Resolution: #25-42

SUBMITTED BY: Leah Richardson SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING

October 29th, 2025

WHEREAS, Procurement sent out requests for proposals to ten qualified companies to provide Independent Cost Estimating Services for upcoming capital improvement projects under a task order contract structure; and WHEREAS, Procurement received one (1) proposal which was reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends Infi nite Consulting Corp. as the lowest responsible bidder; and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any confl ict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law

Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #4140, with Infi nite Consulting Corp. for a 36-month contract at a cost of $400,000 be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.

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

(Updated vote count below)

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

NO: Johnson

ABSTAIN: Smith PASSED

Deepest Condolences

Daniel James Hayden

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Daniel James Hayden on April 7, 2025. Born and raised in the Bronx, he was a long-time resident of Co-op City since 1996. James worked for USPS for over 40 years until he retired. Kindness and generosity were often recognized. James loved going to MSG, Yankee Stadium, and MetLife Stadium to support his favorite NY teams. He never missed a family gathering and loved to go swimming. The family takes comfort in remembering his favorite phrases, “Happy moments praise God, Difficult moments seek God, Quiet moments trust God, and Every moment thank God.”

Arnold Hughes

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of retired CCPD Lieutenant Arnold Hughes. He was 63 years old.

Lt. Hughes served the Co-op City community for 35 years before retiring in August 2024. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2004 and to Lieutenant in November 2011. His colleagues in CCPD are planning a memorial to be held next month.

Please join CCPD and the Riverbay community in keeping Lt. Hughes’ family in your prayers during this difficult time.

Ronald Hines, Sr.

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Ronald Hines, Sr. of Building 5B on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

Mr. Hines was a father, grandfather, uncle and cherished pillar of the Co-op City community where he coached with the Co-op City Little League for more than 10 years, and also served on the CCLL board. Known for his unwavering kindness, wisdom and steady presence, Mr. Hines touched countless lives with his generosity of spirit and deep devotion to family and community.

A ceremony in his honor will be held today, Saturday, November 15, at Granby Funeral Home, 4021 White Plains Road. Viewing is at 9 a.m., followed by funeral service at 10 a.m. Interment will be at Woodlawn Cemetery. Repass at 4 p.m. in the Dreiser Community Center. All are invited to join Mr. Hines’ family to pay their last respects.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 6

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 6 140 DeKruif Place Current Lease

Expiration Date: February 28, 2026 New 3-Year

Expiration Date: February 28, 2029

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

Nathen Valadez New Media Producer

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.

New Yorkers Reminded to Beware of Health Insurance Scams

On Wednesday, Nov. 12, New York Attorney General Letitia James and Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued a consumer alert warning New Yorkers about common health insurance scams as 2026 open enrollment begins through the NY State of Health Marketplace.

Health insurance scams spike during open enrollment periods, and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and DOH are providing consumers with tips to protect themselves against potential scams.

“As health care costs skyrocket and federal support hangs in the balance, access to affordable health insurance is more important than ever,” said Attorney General James. “We cannot allow predatory scammers to swindle New Yorkers out of their hard-earned money. I urge all New Yorkers to remain vigilant and contact my office if they believe they are the target of a scam or fraud. My office will always work to hold bad actors and fraudsters accountable.”

“As New Yorkers enroll or renew their health coverage, it is critical they remain vigilant against scams that can put their personal information and access to care at risk,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “The Department of Health is committed to protecting consumers and ensuring that every New Yorker can access quality, affordable health insurance safely. We encourage anyone with questions or concerns about their coverage to reach out to NY State of Health or local certified enrollment assistors for free, trusted assistance.”

Enrollment in New York’s public health programs – Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and the Essential plan – is open year-round. However, New York State requires enrollees to renew their eligibility for these health plans every year. Enrollees are sent renewal notices well in advance of their coverage end dates with detailed instructions on how to stay covered and their deadline to renew. To enroll in commercial health insurance (qualified health plans) through NY State of Health for 2026, New Yorkers must do so during the open enrollment period that started on November 1. Enrollment must be completed by December 15 for coverage to begin on January 1, 2026. New Yorkers who experience qualifying life events (for example, a marriage, divorce, or birth of a child) can enroll in a Qualified Health Plan outside of the open enrollment period. It is important to note that many people are eligible for tax credits, which lower the monthly costs of a Qualified Health Plan.

Public Safety Blotter

November 2, 2025–November 7, 2025

November 02, 2025

Front of 120 Bellamy Loop

– A cooperator returning to their parked vehicle observed that the catalytic converter was removed by an unknown suspect without their permission.

November 03, 2025

99 Carver Loop – A cooperator reported returning to Garage 3 and observed that the lock to their electric bike was clipped and the electric bike was removed by an unknown suspect without their permission.

November 04, 2025

140 Benchley Place – CCPD responded to a call of a trash fire in front of the building. FDNY was notified and responded by extinguishing the fire. No injuries and no property damage to report.

November 05, 2025

Front of 620 Baychester Avenue – CCPD responded to a call of a small fire in front of the building. FDNY was notified and responded by extinguishing the fire. No injuries and no property damage to report.

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

November 06, 2025

99 Dreiser Loop – A cooperator reported returning to Garage 2 and not being able to use the key fob to enter their vehicle, making the vehicle inoperable. An unknown suspect possibly tried to remove the vehicle without success. NYPD was notified and present on scene.

Front of Co-op City Baseball

Attorney General James and Commissioner McDonald are urging New Yorkers to be vigilant in light of reports of scammers pretending to be NY State of Health and selling fake health insurance to steal consumers’ money and personal information. Scammers may use fake websites or phone numbers, including ones that are very similar to the NY State of Health website and phone number, or lie about their affiliation with health plans. With the changes to health insurance programs included in the government’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” Attorney General James and Commissioner McDonald are reminding consumers that work requirements and other new restrictions do not take effect until next year, and any messages that say otherwise are likely scams. People who purchase scam health insurance not only lose money to the scammers but are also left without insurance coverage for doctor’s visits, hospital visits, or to purchase prescription drugs. New Yorkers should be on the lookout for the following tactics scammers use to target those who are trying to obtain or keep health insurance:

• Scammers often use fear by threatening New Yorkers that their health insurance is at risk of cancellation, or that they have already lost their health coverage unless they provide hundreds of dollars to reinstate or continue benefits.

• Scammers will also use false offers of generosity to lure New Yorkers into providing personal information. This is typically done through phishing scams offering people gift cards or money to “update” their health accounts so as not to lose coverage.

• Scammers may ask for money to enroll people in marketplace or “Obamacare” insurance. The New York agencies that administer Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and Essential Plan benefits will never use the term “Obamacare” or ask for money from consumers to enroll or re-enroll. They will also not offer New Yorkers rewards to renew their coverage.

• Attorney General James and Commissioner McDonald provided the following tips and reminders for New Yorkers to avoid common scams:

• No one can ever charge you a fee to renew your health insurance in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, the Essential Plan, or a Qualified Health Plan.

• If you enrolled in health insurance through NY State of Health, many people are available to help you renew for free. These include NY State of Health’s certified enrollment assistors (including navigators, agents, and brokers) and Customer Service Center representatives. Find help at nystateofhealth. ny.gov or 1-855-355-5777.

• If you enrolled in Medicaid through either your county’s Medicaid office or through New York City’s Human Resources Administration (HRA), there are also many people available to help you for free. Contact the office where you enrolled to ask questions and get help with renewing your insurance.

• Government agencies will never threaten you, demand you pay money, or ask for credit information in a text message, e-mail, or phone call.

• Many websites will try to make you think that it is the official New York

Field – A cooperator reported returning to their parked vehicle and observed the rear passenger side window shattered. NYPD was notified.

Side of 2031 Bartow Avenue – An employee reported that an unknown suspect had removed their electric bike without their permission, riding away with it. NYPD was notified.

November 07, 2025

120 Dreiser Loop – CCPD observed a cooperator congregating with others and refused a lawful order to disperse. The cooperator was issued a Criminal Court Summons for Disorderly Conduct and a Community Complaint for AntiSocial Behavior.

920 Baychester Avenue – A cooperator returned to their parked vehicle and observed the rear driver’s side window shattered without any items being removed.

620 Baychester Avenue – CCPD observed a cooperator sitting on the staircase smoking a cigarette then disposing of the cigarette in a cup and leaving it on the staircase. The Shareholder of Record was issued three Community Complaints: Loitering, Smoking in a Residential Building and Improper Disposal Of Garbage.

4240 Hutchinson River Parkway – CCPD responded to multiple calls of a person kicking on an apartment door trying to gain entry. Upon arrival, CCPD observed the suspect kicking the apartment door and after further investigation with the shareholder, the suspect was placed under arrest and processed.

(Continued on page 8)

For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbaycorp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com. Please note: emails should be sent to both parties. Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see below for specific directions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

For employment opportunities, please visit these following sites:

www.ZipRecruiter.com

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

Problems A-Poppin’

There are too many problems for one fist to shake at all by itself. Find some fellow action-focused complainers and start chasing down solutions. Take on a wanna-be king or stick to close-to-home problems, be they self-inflicted or otherwise.

Pick a topic that irks you or harms someone you care about. If it speaks to you, if it annoys you enough, have at it. Can’t think of anything off the top of your head? Borrow from this alphabetical list of unfinished business.

Amtrak’s Pelham Bay Railroad Bridge and Co-op City’s Metro-North Railroad Station. Who’s surprised that the station completion date has been pushed to 2030? This gives us more time to join together to demand south-of-the-tracks parking and station access. And whatever happened to the 3-D model we requested to replace the 2-D one? The one that depicts the station but omits the I-95 overpass that the station will nestle under?

And remember, Amtrak is planning a five foot tall noise barrier for the horse stables, but a four foot one for us!

BxM7. There were 868 BxM7 cancellations from last March to this March. But what has the MTA done (or not done) to us (or for us) lately? I don’t know. I’m having trouble with the app that sends me that data. Has anyone else been keeping track?

That’s not the only BxM7 issue. Traveling the wrong way around Einstein Loop is. Just note the bus number and arrival time and call 511. Better yet, snap a picture and email the MTA inspector general at Complaints@mtaig.org. A kind woman at the MTA is trying to correct the drivers’ bad habit before winter sets in. Let’s let her know she’s got more than one or two people who appreciate her effort.

Same goes for our politicians. They, too, need encouragement. Our elected officials depend on the bureaucrats to keep everything running as smoothly as possible. But when the public ser-

Health Insurance ––––––

vants stop serving the public, we’ve got to holler loud enough to get the pols to poke the bear. Elections. This year, for the first time since 2018, I gave up posting, “Here’s where you vote” poll site signs for our civil elections. I’ve also temporarily and reluctantly given up on trying to reunite our on-campus poll sites to their original three – Dreiser, Bartow, and Einstein. (Enough already with the unnecessary disruption of the Disney and Truman schools!) The BOE cut back our rental stipend long ago, let’s scrape back what belongs to us while simultaneously saving some of our tax-paying dollars.

As for codifying our Riverbay Board of Election Rules? That should be non-stop talked about, starting now. Make the rules consistent, sensible, and effective. Go back to all mail-in ballots and shorten the whole shebang to an early voting time span.

Misspelling the name of our community. It’s not just the MTA misspelling Co-op City: in their schedules, on their shelters, on their graphics – including the M–N station model itself! The DOT hasn’t corrected the southbound Hutch Exit 2 sign. The Peartree Post office spells Co-op City wrong twice on their building. Section 5’s Co-op City Pharmacy is finally spelled right on Google but still wrong on their receipt and the hyphen’s missing on their brand new app. And though Google’s been 99% corrected (except for the Bay Plaza Shopping Center’s recalcitrant Mattress City), it’s still not 100%.

And today, on Wikipedia, I saw Riverbay repeatedly spelled RiverBay. Now they’re going for the Corp!

Project X rides again. Project X 731.27 – the sweetheart of a deal that took away Ramp C and gave us the unwanted Death Ramp to Killer Curve –is completed. Poor Ramp C. Every non-aggressive Section 5 driver’s favorite route home from City Island from the east or from the Bronx Zoo and lots of other places from the west was thoroughly pulverized. They layered a fourth lane extension on top of it, and a fifth, and a mini breakdown sixth lane, just for spite.

(Continued from page 7)

State health insurance Marketplace. There is only one official NY State of Health website at bit.ly/4r3GMdJ. Submitting your contact information to some websites may lead to calls, texts, or emails from scammers.

• If your health plan includes a monthly premium, you will pay your health plan directly. The NY State of Health website does not ask for your bank account information or require you to make any payments.

Any New Yorker who suspects that they are a victim of a scam is encouraged to report it to OAG by calling 1-800771-7755 or by submitting a complaint online at bit.ly/3JVJ2Tk, or scan the QR code.

We’ve been reminded Project X 731.78 is ready to rear its ugly head to hobble Section 5 once more. When point 27 was in the works, the point 78 plan called for widening the southbound I-95’s Exit 9 (the one that splits northward to the Hutch and curves southward to Erskine Pl.) to accommodate the extra bus traffic heading to the train station.

Signage: I never tire of making fun of our squiggly, squirrelly building numbering system. After a really long time of clamoring (by Hattie Overman) for a sign to distinguish Bldg. 27A from 27B and 27C, we say thanks from Section 5. But when can we expect to see those You Are Here signs sprinkled all about the campus? Hmm?

Resolution #25-37. After being kept under wraps for too long, the issue of hiring a second law firm to represent the Board separate from the Corporation has been fully revealed. Resolution #25-37 inched its way into the September Open Board meeting and into the CCTimes along with its 204 thousand dollar, three-years-in-a-row price tag, allowing the community to see what all that brouhaha had been about during those earlier ruckus-filled meetings.

Smart Curbs. There are still a few weeks to set this initiative in motion, or to at least try not to forget about it altogether. We need fewer double-parked cars and more designated drop-off/ pick-up curb space along our crowded streets to accommodate us all but especially to accommodate our mobility-challenged neighbors.

Verboten Holiday Decorations. I’ve gotten some interesting battle-the-ban input from neighbors. 1.) Decorate the door with children’s non-toxic washable paint – free-hand, professional, or stenciled. 2.) Call friends in other HCR-regulated Mitchell-Lama complexes and see if the Grinch has hit them as well.

The decorating ban is baseless. Stop the joy thieves. Holler for Hannukah. Wail for Kwanzaa. It’s coming on Christmas. Come together and get loud.

Have a good noisy week, everybody; MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211.

Cooperators United

Greetings, fellow Building Association and Townhouse Association presidents.

As a gentle reminder, due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday activities, our next meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 17, at 7 p.m., in the Bartow Center, Rm. 31. Please be prompt as we will have two guest speakers. The first guest speaker will be extremely brief. A JASA representative will address the availability of their community mental health resources. The holiday season brings with it a spike in feelings of loneliness, isolation, depression, and sadly suicide, especially among our senior population. A JASA representative will briefly outline their resources available to all residents of Co-op City.

Our main guest speaker, Capstone, the administrators of Riverbay Corporation’s online Income Affidavit program, will update Building and Townhouse Association presidents on the program. It is our hope that the presentation will empower all member presidents to address some questions or provide some guidance to shareholders as to why we have the program and how the program works. Also, you will be able to have your own questions and concerns answered. Please join us. Please be prompt.

It is a goal of Cooperators United to make each Association president the best informed, empowered, and engaged leader you can be for your building’s shareholders and for our community at large.

Due to the upcoming holiday season, our December meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 15, at 7 p.m., in the Bartow Center, Rm. 31. For a complete list of dates for our meetings, please read our September article.

Our bi-annual executive board election is scheduled for Monday, January 26, 2026. All Building Association and Townhouse Association presidents current in their dues, and present at the meeting, may be nominated for an office and/or may vote for a nominee for office.

As we are being made acutely aware, elections and voting have consequences. Make your vote count.

Happy Thanksgiving holiday season to all.

—Linda Collins

Building 6 Association

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this, it finds you in good standing. The Association has had a busy October, but we are starting off a November to remember. This month will be filled of blessings and reciprocity. Friday evening, we were able to furnish over 30 neighbors with fresh corn, string beans, bok choy, and mesculin greens, helping in this inflated economy amid the government shut down. The Association would be remiss if we didn’t help our neighbors. Sunday, the Building 6 youth chair, Dr. Gabby, founder of the Light Riders bike club gave out certificates to all the riders and volunteers. It was an evening filled with laughs hugs and cheer amongst Co-op City’s youth, there was pizza, salad and baked ziti served with an array of treats for the children. This is what community is about.

Compactor Room Etiquette: Please takes all bulk items down to the basement’s Ash Cart room. Never place raw garbage into the chute. All recyclables should be rinsed out and placed into the clear bag. Never give the roaches a VIP invite to a soiree.

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

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

Karaoke/Singalong – A great time was had by all at karaoke/singalong night. We hope to see you at the next one.

Medicare Made Simple – (Date Change) On Monday, Nov. 17 at 1 p.m. in the Building 10 Association room located in the rear of 120 Debs Place (10B), Ms. Dorrette Brown, Medicare Specialist, will present “Medicare Made Simple: Breaking Down Parts A, B, C and D.” This presentation will equip you with the tools to make an informed decision about Medicare. To RSVP, contact Jewel at 917-488-5237.

General Membership Meeting – Our next general membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room located in the rear of Building 10B. Our guest speaker will be Pastor Michael Adolphus presenting “Blueprint for Wellness.” Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. We are looking forward to seeing everyone. Light refreshments will be served.

Tip of the Week – Attend an open Board meeting. All cooperators are reminded at an open Board meeting you can speak to the directors of the different departments within Riverbay before the meeting starts. You can also sign up to speak to the Riverbay Board members and/or Management regarding your concerns within our community. Let your voice be heard.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718879-6311.

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.

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” –Arthur Ashe Have a great week!

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Laundry Room Etiquette: Please remove your washer/dryer load within 15 minutes of completion. Never spray aerosol into the machine that could ignite a fire. All trash, used dryer sheets, and emptied detergent bottles should place into its properly marked receptacle. Parents, be mindful of your children as the laundry room isn’t a playground.

As the saying goes, if you see something, say something; please call 718671-3050 or dial 911. If anyone in your household is experiencing a mental health crisis, please dial 988. The hotline is open 24/7.

If any neighbor is experiencing an issue with their apartment, please look to the bulletin board for pertinent numbers. As always, I pray for safety over all.

“Community means strength that joins our strength to do the work that needs to be done. Arms to hold us when we falter. A circle of healing. A circle of friends.” Unknown

–Lauren K.

Lassiter

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, retirees and friends. We hope this week’s article finds everyone doing well. The month of November is moving right along, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner.

At our November 5th meeting we congratulated our honorary member, Caroline Damon, and wished happy birthdays to our November birthday celebrants (see photos).

Theatre Committee – Wait list for the Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre on Saturday, December 13 at 2 p.m. The ticket price is $85 and includes transportation via the Retirees van. The van will pick up at Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block at 12 p.m. and will make three stops (Einstein, Asch, and Dreiser Loop) on the return trip home. Please contact Francine Jones at 718-671-5957. Holiday Luncheon – Tickets are now on sale for our annual holiday luncheon, which will be held at the Marina del Rey from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 11. The ticket price is $110, and transportation is included on a firstpaid/first-seated basis. Please contact Daisy Young at 917-292-7010, Ted Byrd at 917-797-9230, or Lillian Odom at 347-678-0745, to purchase tickets. Daisy will be available in Room 19 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 3 p.m.-5 p.m.

Hunterdon Hills Playhouse – Friday, February 6, 2026, lunch and play “Dr. K’s Motown Revue.” Price is $160. Deposit of $50 ASAP to hold a seat. Bus will pick up in front of H&R Block at 8:30 a.m. and will leave promptly at 9 a.m. Serita will be in Room 19 on Tuesday, 11/18/25, from 1-3 p.m. to accept payments. Sight and Sound “Joshua” – Seats are still available. Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Show at 11 a.m. and lunch to follow at 2:30 p.m. at Miller’s Smorgasbord. Ticket price is $225. The bus will pick up at 6:30 a.m. in front of H&R Block and will depart promptly at 7 a.m. A deposit of $50 is due now to reserve a seat. Contact Serita at (347)564-5722 with any questions.

Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our November birthday celebrants on adding another candle to your birthday cake. We wish you all a happy birthday and peace, love, and happiness throughout the year.

Condolences – We continue to keep our bereaved members and their families in our thoughts and prayers.

Good and Welfare – We continue to pray for those who are sick or shut in. Please remember to notify Lorraine Parker at (718)671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths.

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

General Meeting – Our next general membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 3 at 1pm in the Dreiser Center Auditorium C. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Daryl Johnson Board Meeting Review,

10/29/2025

Big Changes For The Bronx

There’s a lot of stories in reference to crime and other matters about the Bronx on television and on the internet. However, a lot of people might not know about some really big developments that are happening in the Bronx. For instance, do you know that $1.23 billion was spent on investment sales in the Bronx last year? No? Well, get ready to read about a lot of changes that are occurring throughout the Bronx.

Big Investments

Let’s start off by citing what happened with a vacant lot in the South Bronx. This property is located at 350 Grand Concourse, near 144th Street. Do you know anything about that area? Well, that property is near several trains. Plus, it’s not that far from LaGuardia Airport.

So, is this location ideal for an area under development? Of course!

Last year that vacant lot sold for $28.5 million. And, now, that lot will become a mixed-use property with a 220,000 square foot development. Additionally, the views from this building will be amazing. Plus, read carefully, an additional 7,300 apartments are supposed to be developed in this area.

About two months ago, a real estate group purchased nine buildings for $19.6 million around Wales Avenue and East 152nd Street. This property has 237 apartments and 12 commercial spaces. This property was in the same hands for almost 50 years. Additionally, this same real estate group also conducted almost $100 million worth of transactions.

Can you believe that investors are also buying up rent-stabilized buildings? Yes, it’s true! In many cases, these types of properties will be held for a very long period of time. For instance, in May 2025, a real estate group purchased 34 buildings in several areas of the Bronx. These buildings, with over 2,000 units, are rent-stabilized.

There are a lot of other huge developments worth hundreds of millions of dollars going on in the Bronx right now. In fact, one real estate group

has contracts for sixty (60) properties in the Bronx that’s worth almost $400 million. Other developments? Yes, read on.

High Rents

Years ago, you could find lots of buildings with affordable rents in the Bronx. However, those days are gone. So, let’s look at some of the current rental prices for a 1-bedroom apartment in the South Bronx: Walton Avenue – $2,250; Mott Haven area – $2,775-$3,150; and Sheridan Avenue – $2,125.

Metro-North Train Stations

The MTA will be developing four new stations in the Bronx for the Metro-North trains. The stations will be located at Hunts Point, Parkchester/ Van Nest, Morris Park, and Co-op City. These trains will be able to take passengers from these stations into Penn Station.

The City Council’s rezoning plan includes 7,000 new homes in the Bronx. However, around 1,700 – 1,900 housing units will be classified as permanently affordable.

The areas that were zoned for commercial/ manufacturing use in Parkchester/Van Nest will be rezoned to allow for residential use. In fact, an environmental review plan calls for a rezoning area of 46 blocks along East Tremont Avenue, White Plains Road, Bronxdale Avenue, Eastchester Road, and Stillwell Avenue.

About 10,000 jobs will be developed near all of these train stations. It will take approximately 25 minutes to go from Co-op City to Penn Station. So, do I think that this train station might have a tremendous impact on Co-op City? Do I think that lots of people will want to move to Co-op City, especially section 5? Absolutely!

Brooklyn Changed

There’s an area in Brooklyn that’s underneath the Manhattan Bridge. This area used to have lots of warehouses and factories. Then, this entire area started to go down in a very bad way. As time went on, though, developers started buying up large amounts of properties. Thereafter, those former warehouses were converted into offices, lofts, and other types of luxurious developments.

Developers then started looking for a name to

market this area. Then, they realized that this area was Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass. So, this area was and is now marketed as DUMBO. And, now, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in DUMBO is $4,922. True story!!!

Bottom line: There were several areas in Brooklyn that used to be a dump. Developers then started transforming those places. So, do you know what some folks from Manhattan did? Yes, they moved to those areas in Brooklyn. Then, the rents in Brooklyn started escalating to very high levels. So, do you know what those same folks did? That’s right, they had to move back to other areas of – Manhattan.

Close

Developers want to transform lots of areas in the Bronx. Therefore, the Bronx will change big time. Co-op City? Although we have a lot of nonsense going on here, Co-op City is one of the best neighborhoods in the Bronx. So, in my opinion, Co-op City should be maintained as an affordable community.

Thank you.

Contact Information

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

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

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. And, please hang up your phone immediately if someone calls you and says that they’re Daryl Johnson or is associated with me and asks you for money or anything else. Please stay strong and do not fall for any type of scam.

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

Director’s Viewpoint

JASA Health & Resource Fair

Photos by Lovely Grant

FESTIVE TIMES JOIN US NOVEMBER 21 & 22

8th Annual TREE LIGHTING

FRONT OF THE MALL MAIN ENTRANCE

Friday, Nov. 21 • 5pm

A FREE interactive Tree Lighting event and Santa’s Arrival

Featuring The X-Factor Marching Band, elf and stilt-walking toy soldier, live juggling, parade with Santa, music and more!

Dancing and giveaways for children with DJ Omar.

TURKEY GIVEAWAY

GIVING THANKS TO OUR COMMUNITY

Pick up your FREE ticket on Friday, Nov. 21 At the Tree Lighting event at 5pm. After Nov. 21, visit Guest Services on Level 1 in the mall. One per family. Tickets are limited and available through Nov. 25. Pick up your FREE turkey on Nov. 25, from 10am–6pm, Level 3, in the Food Court.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

LEVEL 3, IN THE MALL

Saturday, Nov. 22 • 10am

Two FREE holiday shows at 10am & 1pm

Featuring Magical Monty — dancing, music, kids participation and comic fun.

Starting Nov. 7, pick up your FREE Breakfast with Santa ticket at Guest Services on Level 1 in the mall. One ticket per child (ages 12 and under).

Co-op Centenarian Celebrates 102nd Birthday

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 to complete an online disclosure form; www.lighthouse-services.com/riverbaycorp

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).

Photos by Brandi Simpson

Building 27 Association

We wish our neighbors well. We pray that all of our children will learn in a peaceful environment and they will have a prosperous school year. Also, the new signage are in place at the corner of Erdman Place. The Board of Directors and Management will be enforcing Fire Codes in Co-op City, and shareholders are no longer allowed to have any decorations on Co-op City premises due to a risk of fire hazards.

Building 27 Association – Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 7 p.m. in the rear lobby of Building C. Fliers will be posted. Raffles and light refreshments.

Remember, this is our home. The building association invites the cooperators to express their concerns, opinions, and ideals so that we all as neighbors will do better to strive towards a prosperous community. Our cooperators are not alone, and we together will solve the issues or problems. We thank our cooperators who ask questions as this helps us as a community to care about one another, homes, buildings and community.

Decorations are now prohibited in public places in our buildings; if not sure, call or visit CSO.

Collections for working staff – Each year, we show our gratitude and appreciation for the work done by our staff, keeping our hallways, lobbies, basements, laundry rooms, and compactor rooms in pretty good shape. We appreciate the cleanliness provided. We invite the cooperators to come and support them. The two days of collection will be on Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on both days, in the lobbies of Bldgs. 27A, 27B, and 27C.

Parking and Bike Enforcements – Cooperators, advise your delivery person to utilize the bike racks installed at the front of residential buildings and the community centers. Otherwise, the bicycles and motorbikes can be removed if chained to light poles and fences around the community. Cars parked without proper placards will be ticketed.

Happy birthday to all celebrating this month. To those in bereavement, you have our sincere sympathy. We wish all the best of health and safety. You may contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 if a neighbor is deceased, is sick, or transferred to a nursing home.

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

––H. Overman

Stay Vigilant

Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

Building 25 Association

Greetings, Building 25 shareholders. We send our best wishes to new shareholders and say, “Welcome Home!” Congratulations to our association members, neighbors and friends celebrating a special occasion this week. Cheers!

Reminder: MetroCards currently in use will expire on December 31, 2025. After this date, the MetroCard will no longer be in use; it will be replaced by the OMNY card. MetroCard customers are encouraged to upgrade their MetroCard accordingly. The MTA mobile bus service nearest to our building is available on Bartow Avenue, close to the old bingo hall, on the first and third Thursdays of each month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Customers can receive assistance at this location to upgrade to the OMNY card.

Sick and Shut-ins: Our thoughts are with those who are sick and homebound. We extend our prayer for your comfort and recovery.

Condolences: We send our deepest sympathy to those families who lost a loved one recently.

Building Association Meeting: Our next building association meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 18, at 7:30 p.m. in the meeting room under the portico. In the event you are unable to attend the meeting, please contact Building 25 Cooperators’ Association via email at: building25association@ gmail.com to share your ideas and concerns. Your building association strives to advocate on your behalf for problem resolution. We welcome your input and support. Please join your building association. The annual dues are $5 per family. We look forward to seeing you at the meeting. Light refreshments will be available.

Have a fun week!

––Evelyn Herbert

Building 28 Association

What a wonderful week in Building 28! From a fun Halloween activity serving 175+ happy trick-or-treaters to our produce giveaway of collard greens, cabbage, sweet potatoes, white potatoes, carrots, and rice, made possible by our Community Leaders NYC Grant. We served 50+ bags of fresh produce showing our shining community spirit. Thank you to everyone who helps us care for neighbors who cannot come out. Please make sure we have your contact info for check-ins and deliveries. We also gave away 40 free tickets to Flip Circus to the lucky families who visited us during our Halloween event. Big thanks to Brenda Brown, Terry Gavin, Bobby Adams, and Tanya Cruz-Cooke.

Meeting on November 20 at 7:30 p.m. Members and shareholders are always welcome. Join us and bring your neighbors.

We will be raffling two of each: turkey, pork shoulder and chicken. Plus a 50/50 raffle.

We are also planning a Building 28 Holiday Party in December—we would love your ideas as well as volunteers to make it great!

Save the Date: Association

We are Co-op City Strong! Let us finish the year united and full of heart.

––Idalia Reyes, President

ID Required For Community Center Rentals

Shareholders are reminded that a government-issued photo ID which also shows their Co-op City address is required when renting community center rooms.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Building 22A & 22B Association

New York decided Zohran Mamdani is our new mayor. An historic outcome for our city, let’s see what will happen. Our next association meeting is November 17 at 7 p.m. in the 120 Co-op City Blvd. association room. All are welcome.

Pray that our government is back in session, letting the air traffic controllers come back to work and getting the holiday season and our country back on track.

We thank our veterans and members in the military service for their sacrifice, strength and support. Happy Veterans Day.

Compactor Room: Please continue to follow all instructions for keeping this space clean.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Read the etiquette board and please follow the instructions.

Happy birthday to all. Prayers to all who lost loved ones. Please check on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something. Blessings to all.

—Betty Leak

Drammeh Center

Join us at the Drammeh Center for another Lunch and Learn handson Candle-Making Workshop where you’ll create your own beautiful candles using premium materials and scents. Learn, create, and discover how to market your creations—just in time for the holidays!

Last week's workshop was a success, thanks to Linda Collins and each of the workshop participants. The next cohort will be held on Saturday, December 6, at 12:00 p.m.

Whether you're a candle-making pro or a complete beginner, this Lunch and Learn Workshop is perfect for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their holiday decor, or create unique gifts for loved ones. Supplies will be provided. Don't miss out on this opportunity to get crafty and spread some holiday cheer! Seating is limited. $56.00 per session. Light lunch provided. Register at: https://bit.ly/47L4iTQ

—Elise Edwards

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Hi, neighbors. Hope you remembered our veterans on their special commemorative day and I hope your Halloween was fun. As we have done for years, we placed our treats below our “Help Yourself” sign under our door buzzer. The trick was on us, as it was totally confiscated, shopping bag and all. It’s just treats, so we hope it was enjoyed. There is so much going on here in Co-op; first of all, join a club and read the newspaper.

Last week, Broun Place 30A was set up for some exterior repair and brickwork. It was set up very carefully and very professionally. I apologize for the mistake in the report regarding which apartment the work is being done. It should have been 30A. The projection for completion of this phase is predicted to take 2-3 months. Our question is when will interior and exterior walls be inspected for water damage and then be scheduled for repair? Based on today’s observations, some work is beginning. Last week, a photo was attached of the start; credit goes to Dave Lazaar.

Since the distribution of the latest enforcement flyer regarding decorating, our decorations have been removed. It seems like the pendulum of following the Fire Code has swung to more conservative. The flyer warns of inspections and fines if we don’t adhere. We need to read last week’s “Director’s Viewpoint” authored by Director Mary Pearson and support more work being done in following, and especially, understanding it.

Co-op City exemplifies equality and respect for all. Exemplifying that are our applications to Co-op City, which are numbered by submission date order. When you follow up on a transfer application, make sure you get a number and necessary information to do so correctly.

Important numbers to have are our Section 4 CSO department, send an email to mvega@riverbaycorp.com, or call 718-320-3300, ext 3306. Also, please report to CCPD, 718-671-3050 or the 45th Precinct if you see a car without a disability placard parked illegally in Broun Place cul-de-sac. Tickets will be issued to those without placards. Also please, when you park, just takeup one space.

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 join the Broun Place Townhouse Association. We encourage your participation in community events and make constructive suggestions to your Board.

To report on 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 and do get your vaccines.

We applaud our public schools. Good luck to our youth and have a safe school year. Neighbors, let’s be safe; in inclement weather, tie up and close your terrace accessories. Finally, thank you to our groundskeeper, who does a wonderful job.

—Eva Kindaichi Lazaar

Building 15 Association

Our next Building 15 Association meeting will be on Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m. in our meeting room in the rear lobby of Building 15B. We will have guests speakers, our new Chief of Public Safety Andre Waring and Captain Frank Torres. Please come down to our meeting. If you have any questions or concerns, they will gladly answer them.

We would like to welcome any new cooperators to the building and invite them to join us at our meeting. Please make every effort to attend and bring a neighbor. Refreshments will be served and we will also have a 50/50 raffle. If you have any questions or concerns, you can send an email to building15bassoc@gmail.com. Thank you.

—Sandy Krasnove

Building 13 Association

Association Business

Our Vice President Wendell Mattison will begin collecting donations for the building staff. We are requesting you take part and volunteer to assist in this endeavor. If you think you would like to assist, please contact him at 917-3301380. The tentative dates and times are as follows: December 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 16, 17, and 19 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. A flyer will be posted in the bulletin board located in the lobby.

We will begin preparing for our annual holiday party soon (held near the end of December). If you are interested in being on the committee, please let the association members know via the contact information below or to the email you were sent previously. We usually have it after Christmas but before the New Year. This year, it may fall on Saturday, December 27, and will be determined at the December meeting.

Our next Building 13 Association meeting will be on Tuesday, December 2, with the Chief of CCPD Andre Waring. Save the date notices have been placed in the bulletin board.

Remember, members and non-members of the association are always welcome to attend our meeting. We encourage you to become a member and stay in the know of what is happening in your community. The success of our association depends on active participation from residents. Stay informed and voice your concerns. Share your ideas and help shape the future of our community. Events

• Returning: “Estates, Wills and Trusts” – on Sunday, November 23, from 3-5 p.m. in the Einstein Community Center, Rm. 36. To RSVP, go to Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/naacp-co-op-citybranch-119970035581, scan the QR code on the flyer or contact the NAACP office. Please be prompt as space is limited.

• Hurricane Melissa Relief Drive – Elected officials are holding a drive at the Northeast YMCA located 1250 East 229th Street, Bronx, NY 10466 on Saturday, November 22, from 12 p.m.-5 p.m. They are requesting hygiene and health items, shelter supplies, clean-up and recovery items and clothing and bedding.

Going forward, we will have more discussion on the STAR Credit. Most Mitchell-Lama shareholders are entitled. You can register to switch to the STAR credit from the STAR exemption anytime during the year. But the timing of your first STAR credit will depend on the time of year you register. If you are new to STAR, you will receive a credit sent to you. Already have STAR exemption, you might want to consider changing to the STAR credit for better value. Now is not the time to leave money on the table. Make sure to check the lobby bulletin board for upcoming sessions.

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

––Leslie Peterson

National Council of Negro Women

Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 Association family and friends.

The temperatures are plummeting. Please dress accordingly.

Decked in Disguise: A Holiday Masquerade – On Saturday, December 13, we will be having “Decked in Disguise: A Holiday Masquerade Celebration.” Our party will take place at the convenient Eastwood Manor, 3371 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY, from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. There will be an open bar, a live DJ, buffet dinner and good vibes! Start thinking now of an eye-popping outfit to wear! The tickets are $185 each. You can purchase your tickets through PayPal: bit.ly/ncnwmasquerade. We will also be accepting toys to donate to children in our community. Questions? Contact Candacie Daniels at 646-305-8013.

NCNW Co-op City Section – At our membership meeting on Sunday, November 9, in Dreiser Community Center, we welcomed new members Alberta Martin, Frederica Kendall, Linda Grier and NMaat Ankhmeni. We are so pleased that other women in the Co-op City community (and beyond) are attracted to our aims and actions!

On Tuesday, October 28, we collaborated with the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Club for the second part of “Tax Lien Power Moves,” a Zoom program to “learn strategies for success.” This program was in keeping with NCNW’s national priorities of promoting “financial literacy and economic stability.”

On Sunday, November 2, we joined NCNW Westchester Section to celebrate the 137th anniversary of Grace Baptist Church in Mount Vernon. Our national president of NCNW, Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley, was the featured speaker and brought a powerful message for the celebration.

On Saturday, November 8, members of Co-op City Section enjoyed the play “Hang Time” at the Apollo Theater in Harlem that was written by Zora Howard, the granddaughter of Joyce Howard, past president and present historian of Co-op City Section. The playwright was so surprised by their flowers and prayers that she was truly brought to tears. Health Committee – Today, November 15, was the last Saturday of GirlTrek until the winter weather abates. We will resume in April 2026 our Saturday morning walks together on the Greenway. Please remember our American Cancer Society “Strides Against Breast Cancer” that we participated in last month. If you would like to support this fight against breast cancer, please contact: https://shorturl.at/XCmha. You can make donations to the American Cancer Society until the end of November.

NCNW Youth Group – Our Youth Group did not meet on Saturday, November 8, as they usually do because of unforeseen circumstances. They were quite successful in their fundraising efforts to raise money so they can attend the NCNW Bethune Height Luncheon in May 2026 when NCNW sections from all over New York State get together. Our young women meet from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Dreiser Center, 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 14, on the second Saturday of each month. Parents are welcome. For more information, contact us at ncnwcoopcityyouth@gmail.com.

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

––Joyce Howard

At the time of this writing, our November general membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 13. Our invited guest speaker will be CCPD Chief Andre Waring and his team. Please join us to be informed about the matters of safety and security in our community. There may be incidents of concern, status reports, or reports of concerns you may have. This is an opportunity for you to listen and to make your concerns known.

As you all may know, we are currently banned from decorating the interior public spaces of our buildings. We would like to explore with you the possibility of outside holiday decorating.

We will post photos of our Halloween candy distribution event. Again, my earnest appreciation and gratitude to the lobby-sitting volunteers and candy donors. We could not accomplish any of it without you.

As always, in December, we will begin our annual staff appreciation holiday collections. Please give if you can.

Our annual members-only “New Year” celebration is scheduled for January 2026. Please join us.

Our bi-annual building association executive board election is scheduled for January 2026. All members current in their dues for the two most recent calendar years and who have attended at least three general membership meetings in each of those years are eligible to vote in our election.

The holiday season is a time of reflection. It can also be a time for feelings of loneliness, isolation, and/or depression especially among our senior population. It is also a time when suicide rates can spike across all populations. Our local JASA locations offer mental health resources for all Co-op City residents. Please feel free to contact any of our JASA locations for more information. 311 remains a valued resource for all. Just as important, each of us is a resource. Reach out to a neighbor. Share an invitation to a holiday visit or a meal, if you can. What may be a small thing to you, may be everything to someone else.

Happy holiday season to you all.

—Linda Collins

Goose Island Seniors

The Senior Citizens Social Club of Goose Island will be closed Nov. 26, 27 and 28 for the Thanksgiving holiday. We will be open again on Mon., Dec. 1. A Night of Soul – at the Green Room 42: a Love Letter to Hip-Hop and R&B at Times Square. Sat., Nov. 15. Price: Adults, $95; Children (up to 12 years), $55. Call: 646-579-1701.

Toy & Coat Drive Fundraiser – Cancelled. We accept donations of coats and toys. Call: 646-579-1701.

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. Bus arriving at Einstein Loop at 8:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 9:15 a.m.

Disney Cruise (Dream Ship) – Dec. 22-26. Prices starting at $2000 per person. Call: 646-579-1701. Booking ends Sept. 23.

2026 Mohegan Sun Casino – Thurs., 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: $32933945. Call: 646-579-1701

2026 Sight and Sound “Joshua” – Pre-Mother’s Day. Sat., May 9, 2026. Changes: Lunch at Millers Smorgasbord, then show at 3 p.m. Price: $245, Orchestra seats. Call: 646-579-1701.

Niagara Falls and Toronto Trip – July 6-10, 2026. Roundtrip transportation, breakfasts, dinners, hotel and tours included. Single: $1199. Double: $979. Call: 646-579-1701.

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

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

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

To all Members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of November: Mildred Dobson, Myrna Witherspoon, Olivine Durant, Benny Dungo, Florence Middleton (Deceased), Dorothy Byrd, Loretta Woodard, Mae Dukes, Stephen Werner, Veronica Simmons, Lourdes Suarez and Grace Stubbs.

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

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

Good health to all.

Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Co-op City Democratic Club

The Co-op City Democratic Club would like to congratulate the winning Democratic Party slate of our 2025 General Elections:

Zohran Mamdani, Mayor

Jumanne Williams, Public Advocate

Mark Levine, City Comptroller

Vanessa Gibson, Bronx Borough President

Kevin Riley, Member of the City Council (12th City Council District)

Shekera Algarin, Judge of the Civil Court (Countywide)

Katherine O’Brien, Judge of the Civil Court (1st Municipal Court District)

Our club looks forward to working with them and their offices to address the municipal issues of our community.

Although we are not in City Council District 13, the club would also like to congratulate Shirley Aldedol for her recent victory over the Republican incumbent, thus flipping the seat back to Democrat. It was a long, hard battle and our club was proud to provide support to her campaign. We also would like to acknowledge Male Democratic District Leader of the 82nd Assembly District (Part B) and club member, John Doyle, for his leadership and his tremendous contributions to Shirley and her campaign. He was truly instrumental to her success.

Our club was pleased to see that Proposal #6 (Proposed Charter Amendment: Move Local Elections to Presidential Election Years to Increase Voter Participation) did not pass. We look forward to contributing to the effort to increase voter participation in our community the right way, by promoting voter education and engagement.

Our poll sites saw an increase in voter turnout from recent years, which is a

step in the right direction. However, we are still nowhere near our height from previous decades. The club will be spearheading efforts to remedy this, via voter registration drives, candidate and informational forums and other civic-focused events. Join the club if you want to be involved with these efforts to increase the volume of informed voters in our district.

Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, November 18th, at 6:30 p.m. in Room 28 of the Bartow Community Center. Our guest speaker will be Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto, who is running for re-election.

The New York State Democratic Committee, which is the governing body of the New York State Democratic Party, will be having its Fall Business Meeting in Albany on November 20th and 21st. The 82nd Assembly District, like all of the 150 Assembly Districts, is represented by two elected State Committee Members at these meetings and the state convention that happens every four years (next one is 2026) where the State Committee chooses who the party is backing for statewide races (eg. Governor & Lieutenant Governor). Our State Committee Members currently are Nancy Rosario and Tremaine O’Garro.

Come to our meetings to expand your civic knowledge and learn more about political organizations and party officials. We even have a County Committee that you can potentially run for and serve on as an elected party official. Hope to see you on Tuesday!

If you have any questions, comments or concerns or want more information about joining the club, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at: coopcitydemclub@gmail.com

Tremaine O’Garro

NAACP

The NAACP marches to defend democracy and combat racism and discrimination in communities across the country. Located in the Einstein Community Center, Rm. 36, we meet the fourth Sunday of the month at 3 p.m. The NAACP Co-op City Branch office hours are 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays. Congratulations to NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson for earning a well-deserved spot on the Root 100 list for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to civil rights, equity and justice. We are proud to celebrate this honor with him as he helps lead the charge toward a more equitable future for all.

Upcoming Events

• Returning: “Estates, Wills and Trusts” – on November 23 from 3-5 p.m. in the Einstein Community Center, Rm. 36. To RSVP, go to Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/naacp-co-op-city-branch-119970035581, scan the QR code on the flyer or contact the NAACP office. Please be prompt, space is limited.

• Hurricane Melissa Relief Drive – Elected officials are holding a drive at the Northeast YMCA located 1250 East 229th Street, Bronx, NY 10466 on Saturday, November 22, from 12 p.m.-5 p.m. They are requesting hygiene and health items, shelter supplies, clean up and recovery items and clothing and bedding.

• Youth – Free Application for Federal Student Aid workshop will be scheduled soon to assist and inform key elements when completing the application. Instruction will be facilitated by a current H.S. Director of Guid-

Scholarship Opportunities: Each year, the NAACP offer need-based and merit scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees as part of our Inspire Initiatives program. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life. Please be sure to review individual scholarship eligibility requirements and deadlines. Note: you must “be a member of the NAACP.” If you are not a member of the NAACP, join today

NAACP Statement: 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 check/money orders payable to: NAACP Co-op City Mailing address: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36, Bronx, NY 10475. To become a member online, go to: www.naacp.org membership. Select Co-op City (2210) and join. To leave a message, call the office phone at: 718-320-3210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com.

––Brenda Brown

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.

“...give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”—1 Thessalonians 5:18

Nearly everyone would agree that this has been a challenging year. In seasons of financial struggle, social unrest, health crises, or national and global uncertainty that threaten our sense of well-being, it can feel especially difficult to follow Paul’s command to “give thanks in all circumstances.”

Paul’s instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 isn’t a suggestion—it’s a spiritual posture, a radical call to obey God’s will when we’re weary, frustrated, and discouraged. He doesn’t ask us to give thanks because He delights in our suffering, but because thanksgiving anchors us in His presence, even when the storm rages.

We see this modeled most powerfully in Jesus Himself. The “Son of Man” on the night He was betrayed—knowing the cross was near, knowing pain and abandonment awaited—Jesus demonstrated what it means to give thanks in dark times. “He took bread, gave thanks, and broke it” (1 Corinthians 11:23–24). He gave thanks in the breaking—not after the resurrection, not once the suffering had passed, but in the very moment of surrender.

As His followers, we too are called to give thanks, even when life is difficult. It’s important to note that scripture doesn’t tell us to give thanks for everything, but in everything. This distinction matters. We don’t thank God for the pain itself, but we thank Him in the midst of it—because He meets us there.

This is the mystery of gratitude: it transforms breaking into blessing. When

we give thanks in hardship, we proclaim that God is still good, still present, and that He is working through all things for our good.

Giving thanks in all circumstances is a process. Yet through prayer, renewed perspective, and a heart that remembers God’s love and faithfulness, we can experience peace and joy even amid life’s challenges.

When life feels heavy, let gratitude be your act of faith!

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 in the Einstein Community Center, Tuesday at 1 p.m. for newcomers; Wednesday at 3 p.m. for continuation. Bible Study on Wednesday at 7 p.m. via Zoom: 904-468-5745. Book: Esther

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

Upcoming Events – Save The Dates

Sunday, November 16: Bilingual Service at 11:15 a.m.

Escuela Dominical at 10 a.m.

After Service Presentation on Biometric Screening/Bring a friend.

Sunday, November 23: Bilingual Service/Thanksgiving Service at 11:15 a.m.

– Grace Abadia

Time to Praise

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

When is the best time to praise? The Bible demonstrates that when we are at our weakest, most desperate, when we do not know what to do – that is the time to praise.

(2 Chronicles 20:2-4) “Some people came and told Jehoshaphat, ‘A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Dead Sea. It is already in Hazezon Tamar (that is, En Gedi).’ The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him.”

When they heard of the attack, they developed a God-centered action plan. They all came together to seek the Lord. Every town was represented. Unity was part of the plan.

(2 Chronicles 20:12) “Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”

The King led in prayer. He reminded God of His instructions and the evil that was coming against them. He acknowledged weakness, dependence, and limited knowledge.

(2 Chronicles 20:18-19) “Jehoshaphat bowed down with his face to the ground, and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem fell down in worship before the Lord. Then some Levites from the Kohathites and Korahites stood up and praised the Lord, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice.”

The King bowed, the people worshipped, and the Levites broke out in praise. They used their bodies as instruments of sacrifice before the Lord. They raised their voices to God!

(2 Chronicles 20:21-22) “After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the Lord and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: Give thanks to the Lord, for his love endures forever. As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated.”

Worshippers were put in front of the army. They spoke praise then sang thanksgivings to God. God reacted by fighting against the enemy. The war cry was the people’s praise.

(2 Chronicles 20:27-28) “Led by Jehoshaphat, all the men of Judah and Jerusalem returned joyfully to Jerusalem, for the Lord had given them cause to rejoice over their enemies. They entered Jerusalem and went to the temple of the Lord with harps and lyres and trumpets.”

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: Spanish Bible Study, 12 p.m. & Youth Service,5:30-9 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.

Greater Love Refuge Ministries

“Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” Matthew 6:25-27

Spiritual Food for Thought: Why do you worry about the future? You do not know what the days ahead may bring, but God will give you the wisdom and direction for every day as it comes. Do what needs to be done right here and now and leave the rest to God. He will not forsake you. Worry is not productive, but faith is. Are you looking for a church home where God is worshipped in Spirit and Truth? We invite you to worship with our church family, Greater Love Refuge Ministries, Inc., every Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Greater Love is conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd. (Bldg. 2A – ground floor), Bronx, NY 10475. Our telephone number is 347-920-5607. We are a non-denominational, multi-generational, teaching, preaching, faith & Bible-way Ministry. At Greater Love, you’ll find a supportive and friendly atmosphere; come as you are—no expectations, just a warm welcome.

Sunday morning Bible School begins at 10:15 a.m. sharp. All are invited to

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle

177 Dreiser Loop, second floor, Room 2.

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

The prayer intent for this Sunday is Right Energy. We are encouraged by Jesus to put our energy towards doing good to others. “And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” (Luke 6:31) Sunday November 16, 2025:

• 11 a.m. Communion Service

• Fellowship with light refreshments

Bible Lessons:

• Titus 2:1, 7, 8, 11-13, and 3:1, 2, 8

• Luke 6:27, 28, 31, 35-38

Prayer Intent: Right Energy

Stir up, O Lord, we pray thee, the wills of thy faithful people, that they, plenteously bringing forth the fruit of good deeds, may become tireless workers in thy holy service; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

––Rev. Dorian Miceli

IMPORTANT!

our powerful teaching with Presiding Elder Carol Landrum. While our classes are multigenerational, youth sessions (ages 8–17) are held every 3rd & 5th Sunday morning (next youth class: tomorrow). Our next “Each One Teach One” adult series is on Sunday, November 23. Come out and support the lay teachers who will lead the Sunday Bible lesson on that day.

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 call-in number is 351-9993024; no access code required. As a general courtesy, please mute your phone upon entry and when not speaking.

We are asking for donations of non-perishable food items for our “Joseph Storehouse” (formerly the Two Fish and Five Loaves Food pantry). Donations can be dropped off at the church on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, November 12, and Friday, November 21, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Additional drop off times to be announced.

Grace & Peace,

––Presiding Elder Carol Landrum

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 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, November 22, at 5:50 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, November 21, at 4:13 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.

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.

To all members: Happy Anniversary to Saul and Hillary Weber, and Bruce and Edith Gitelson, whose anniversary is in November. Happy Birthday to Hillary Weber and to all our members who will be celebrating their birthday in November. Please send me your name and I will add it to the list.

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

––Bruce Gitelson

Coalition of African

American Churches and Community Organizations in Co-op City

Monthly General Meeting

The Coalition held its first meeting after the summer season on Tuesday, October 14, at 12 p.m. via Zoom. The president welcomed the member organizations of the Coalition and thanked them for years of service to the community. The secretary made roll call to ascertain the current members’ list. The president requested that every member organization be contacted to renew their member representatives. Each organization should have a minimum of three representatives on the Coalition, but he stressed that member organizations should not only send representatives to the Coalition by title alone. The Coalition wants members who would be willing, able, and ready to attend meetings. The Coalition stressed that with regular attendance, issues and ideas could be deliberated upon and decisions could be made. At the same time, the recording secretary was encouraged to update her sheet and any organization that was not forthcoming and was not paying their expected nominal dues should be delisted from the Coalition list. At the same time, the Coalition encouraged all members present to reach out to other standard organizations in the community to join the coalition.

Kwanzaa Celebration

As the only major event by the Coalition, the president announced that the recording secretary, Francine Reva Jones, in conjunction with the treasurer, Daisy Young, and the assistant treasurer, Merville Chambers, should form the core members of the planning committee. The Coalition looks forward to planning our annul Kwanzaa Celebration for December and perhaps make it a fundraiser.

Thus, we encourage anyone who is interested in working with the committee to contact the recording secretary, Ms. Reva Jones, for details. The date for the Kwanzaa event will be announced in the next publication Member Organization Dues – This is a reminder that our fiscal year begins on September 1st through August 31st and the annual dues are due in October. The dues are based on your group’s membership of $1 per member, and a minimum of $50. A check or money order may be made payable to: “Coalition of African American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc.” and mailed to: Coalition of African American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. c/o Francine Jones, 140 Asch Loop 16d, Bronx, NY 10475.

Awareness Tour – Dr. Toba LaCrown jumpstarted his awareness and courtesy visit to the organizations in the community with the purpose of identifying with these groups to emphasize on the need for togetherness and building the community collaboration. On Sunday, October 26, he visited St Joseph Episcopal Church to fellowship with Father Simeon Johnson and his entire flock. The church has dutifully been committed to the ideals of the Coalition. He thanked the church for their years of partnership and sought more collaborations. In the same vein, President Toba also visited the Co-op City Baptist Church in Section Five to worship with them at their special service of promoting cancer awareness. It was such a wonderful service, especially seeing the participation of youth throughout the service.

—Toba Adeyemi LaCrown

Community Protestant Church

Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens, Sr. and the Community Protestant Church family welcome you to worship with us. We are located at 2053 Asch Loop, Bronx, NY, 10475. 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., Bible Study online via Zoom. Log in on Zoom.com or dial One Tap Mobile: 929-205-6099, 838-454-0093 or 646-9313860; Meeting ID: 886 1355 3980.

Hallelujah! Lord, we lift You up! The Praise Team opened morning worship with music and song. Testimonies were shared thanking God for His grace and mercy. Deacon James Nicholson invited the Holy Spirit in and read 1 John 2:3-11. Pastor Owens expressed his love and appreciation to everyone for a magnificent celebration. He exclaimed his 49th anniversary exhibited a spirit of friendship and joy and he is beyond grateful. Pastor then preached “Missing in Action,” Psalm 107:31-32. He sermonized it is a gift to worship together. He added fellowship aids in spiritual growth. Fellowship enables us to support each other and share in the joy of a community centered on faith. Amen. Tomorrow, the Adult Sunday School will ponder the question, does God keep His promises? Please read focal verses 2 Chronicles 6:12-21. First Granddaughter Roxie Rain said, “Thank you for caring about me,” and proudly announced she collected over 475 pairs of socks for her school’s annual sock drive. Go, Roxie! Fifteen bountiful Thanksgiving baskets will be ready for pick up on Saturday, November 22. Kindly contact the church office for additional information. We thank you for your fellowship and ask–are you looking for a church home? 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.

Our sincere and heartfelt condolences are extended to all who are in a season of mourning. To our sick and homebound members, please know your presence is missed and we are praying for your healing. Happy birthday to Sister Verna McDavid and everyone celebrating their special day this month.

“Let them extol him in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.” Psalm 107:32

—Lexa M. Mingo

Be respectful of your neighbors

Please be aware that not all disabilities are visible, so be considerate and respectful of all members of the community.

President Toba LaCrown visited St. Joseph Episcopal Church, one of the member organizations of the Coalition.

President Toba LaCrown (R) with Reverend Williams of the Co-op City Baptist Church, another member organization of the Coalition.

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” on Thursday, 3/19/2026. Lunch at the Amish all-you-can-eat Shady Maple. Cost: $230 and $50 deposit is required to sign up. Payments accepted at the Bartow OAC only

JASA Bartow November Food Shopping

Trips – ShopRite (Pelham), 11/20. Cost: $6. Costco, 11/21. Cost: $6.

In-Person Computer Class – Wed., from 4-5 p.m. at the Bartow NORC office.

Spanish Classes – Thurs., 2-3 p.m. at the NORC office.

Caringkind: The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving Rep. will be in the Bartow main office every third Mon. of the month, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. for Alzheimer & Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation & oth-

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066

(Schedule subject to change without notice)

Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.-12 p.m., & 2 p.m.-4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visual Arts w/Laura via Zoom, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Knitting/Crocheting w/Lynne & Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Card Games w/Frankie, 3:304:30 p.m.

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

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. (appointment only)

Movies w/ Dennis, “Four Brothers,” 1-3 p.m.

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

Bridge to Care Arthritis Exercise w/ Damien, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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

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

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

Board Games, 1-2 p.m.

Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Salsa Dancing w/George, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

er 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.

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk Menu subject to change without notice. Bartow Center (929) 399-1394

Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

Weekend Recap Discussion, 9-10 a.m.

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

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

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

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

Leisure TV, 2:15-4 p.m.

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Art w/ Gerry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Crafts w/ Roselen, 1-2 p.m. Leisure Games w/ Clara, 1-3:30 p.m., Rm. 2

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

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Co-op City Network Thanksgiving Party, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Auditorium Leisure TV, 2 -4 p.m.

Current Events, 10-11 a.m. Cardio Exercise w/Gail, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Elder Abuse Presentation, Rm. 4, 12- 1 p.m. Lunch & Learn: Life Insurance, 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Body in Motion w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Leisure games w/Clara, 1-3:30 p.m., Rm. 2

LUNCH: KOSHER: Beef Hamburger, Baked Red Potato Wedges, Health Slaw; NONKOSHER: Pork Spare Ribs, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Collard Greens

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: No Dinner Served

NON-KOSHER: No Dinner Served

LUNCH: KOSHER: (Plant Based) Chickpea Curry Medley, Brown Rice, Roasted Eggplant; NON-KOSHER: (Plant Based) Latin Sweet Potato & Red Bean, Chili

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Vegan Stuffed Peppers, Brown Rice, Roasted Eggplants, Canned Mandarin, Orange; NON-KOSHER: Pork Spared Ribs, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Collard Greens, Apple

Co-op City Thanksgiving Luncheon

LUNCH : KOSHER: Teriyaki Baked Fish, Mexican Confetti Rice, Steamed Yellow Squash; NON-KOSHER: Black-eyed Peas Curry w/Potatoes & Tomatoes, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli

KOSHER: Roasted turkey w/ Gravy & Stuffing, Sweet Mashed Potatoes, Sautéed String Beans

LUNCH: KOSHER: Ginger & Lime Salmon, Baked Sweet Potato, Prince Edward Blend Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Baked Asian Style, Honey Chicken, White Rice & Quinoa Steamed Broccoli

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER:Salmon in Ginger & Lime Sauce, Baked Sweet Potato, Prince Edward Blend Vegetable, Orange; NON-KOSHER: Stuffed Jumbo Shells in Meat Sauce, Mixed Vegetables, Apples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley

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

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

p.m.

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

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

Health & Wellnes

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

Sewing Class w/Joy, 9-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Knitting /Crocheting w/Loretta 10-12 p.m.

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

LUNCH : KOSHER: BBQ Chicken Legs Quarters, Bowties Pasta w/Kasha, Sautéed Green Beans w/Onions; NON-KOSHER: Fish w Tomatoes & Herbs, Caribbean Rice & Red Beans

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

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

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

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley, 2-4:30 p.m., 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

Wellness 2.0: Alzheimer’s Awareness, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Health & Wellness 2.0 – Celebrating Each Other, 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.

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.

KOSHER: BBQ Chicken, Bowtie & Kasha, Sautéed Green Bean w/Onions, Pear; NONKOSHER: Fish w/Tomatoes & Herbs, Caribbean Rice & Red Beans, Sautéed Spinach, Orange

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

KOSHER: Pot Roast Beef, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Spiced Mixed Vegetables, Apple 15 PLUS 10 GRAB AND GO; NONKOSHER: Baked Asian Style Honey Chicken, Rice & Quinoa, Steamed Broccoli, Banana

Bartow Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Einstein Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Dreiser Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Church of the New Vision

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

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

Come Fellowship with us: Sunday School for Adult and Youth begins at 9:30 a.m.

Sunday morning worship service is at 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 646-769-9900; Access Code: 3099388#. Please mute your phone.

Worship Message: “There’s A Higher Calling.”

Scripture Lesson: Ephesians 4:1-7 KJV, “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called. With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” (Eph. 3:13 & 4:16)

Thanks be to our Lord for the community health event provided by Elder Mike Adolphus, Sister Loretta Scott, and the Church of the New Vision. Thank you for your faithfulness, overflowing blessings of resources, talents, and gifts, to the glory of God. We are so grateful and appreciate the support of fellowship with Co-op Baptist Church, Lifeline Ministries, Amen Ministries, Pisgah Gospel Ministries, and the Community. For everything, we give thanks

Save the Dates

Tomorrow! Sunday, November 16 – The regular church service will be at 11 a.m. and in honor of the 53rd Church Anniversary, we ask all to donate $53. The special afternoon Church of the New Vision’s 53rd Anniversary Celebration Service will begin at 3:30 p.m. with guest speaker, Pastor Rodney Primus of Pisgah Gospel Ministries. Dinner will be served following the service. The community is welcome.

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

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

—Brenda Brown

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. Email: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-320-0844. Priest-in-charge: Fr. Simeon Johnson, cell phone: 917-2274303. In-person worship service for the Twenty Third Sunday after Pentecost will be conducted at the church on Sunday, November 16, at 9:00 a.m. as well as via teleconference. Please remember to tune in for the noonday prayer service each week, Monday through Friday. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509-898, followed by the # sign.

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

Events and Fundraising Activities

November 2: All Saints and All Souls Day will be celebrated.

November 9: All men in St. Joseph’s as well as the community at-large are invited to celebrate Men’s Day with us at the Church. We will have a guest speaker, and refreshments will be served at the end of the service.

November 23: We will celebrate Harvest and Thanksgiving.

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

Sick and Shut-in: We extend our well wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery. If possible, please visit them, call them on the phone or send them a card.

Birthday Greetings: Best wishes and blessing 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.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” John 3:16 Grace and peace!

—Tanya Blanchette

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to worship service, 100 Co-op City Blvd., 22A, Bronx, NY 10475.

Sunday School for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m. Midday service starts at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday morning fasting and prayer service will be held at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

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

All night services will be online; to join, call: 727-731-4156

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

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

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

“We should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhausting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Hebrews 10:25

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

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

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

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

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

—Rev. R. Sibblies

The Co-op City Times is YOUR community newspaper! So, if you

to share with your neighbors, LET US KNOW! Please give us a call at