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By DANIELLE CRUZ
On Wednesday, November 19, the Riverbay Board of Directors met to vote on several resolutions. (See page 5 for resolutions.)
The first resolution was Resolution #25-49, which approved the Division of Housing and Community Renewal’s (HCR) extension of the Downsizing Program, as well as authorized Riverbay Management to continue advocating for the program be made permanent. After a vote on Resolution #25-49, the resolution was passed unanimously, with all 14 directors present voting yes. One director was absent from the meeting.
Back in July, Riverbay Management submitted a request for the permanent waiver of HCR’s occupancy regulations to allow for zero equity transfers for eligible shareholders seeking to downsize; however, HCR only approved a fiveyear extension of the waiver.
(Continued on page 6)
Due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday-shortened work week, articles from certified clubs, organizations and religious institutions, and Board directors’ viewpoints, submitted for publication in the Saturday, November 29, 2025 issue of the Co-op City Times, must be received before 9 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 24. The editorial deadline will be strictly enforced to ensure the newspaper meets its printing deadline. Material submitted after the deadline will be accommodated as space allows and on a first come basis. We wish our readers a joyous Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Be safe in your travels and your celebrations.




Transient parking will be available inthe garages (unless closed due to inclement weather or construction) at a reduced rate of $12.00 during the following timeframes:
Thanksgiving
November 27, 12:00 p.m. through November 28, 6:00 a.m.
Christmas Eve
December 24, 12:00 p.m. through December 25, 6:00 a.m.
Christmas Day
December 25, 12:00 p.m. through December 26, 6:00 a.m.
New Year's Eve
December 31, 12:00 p.m. through January 1, 6:00 a.m.
Vehicles exiting after 6:00 a.m. will be subject to overtime charges
For guests visiting for multiple days, reduced rate guest parking passes are available in some garages. Please contact the Parking & Leasing Department for additional information, 718-3 20-3300, option #6.

from the Parking & Leasing Department

By ROZAAN BOONE
The Riverbay Board of Directors approved the appointment of committee chairpersons last week to ensure good governance in Co-op City and help shape policy discussions on the priorities and strategic direction set by the Board.
The Riverbay Board’s Committee on Committees (COC) defines the process by which Riverbay Board Committees are formed and operate. The COC submits recommendations for committees and their respective chairs to the Riverbay Board President. This year’s COC is chaired by Board Directors Leslie Peterson and Leah Graham.
The chairs of each committee was appointed by Board President Rod Saunders and approved by the full Board at a meeting held on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. Riverbay Board committees, comprised of Board directors and shareholders, meet during the year to provide policy recommendations for the Board’s consideration. Many of these recommendations are either approved by the Board after discussion, or are fine-tuned by the Board before being forwarded to Management for implementation, if they are determined to be beneficial to the larger community and cost-effective. Serving on a Board committee is, therefore, one way that shareholders can influence quality of life in Co-op City.
“In Co-op City, committees is where progress begins,” said COC co-chair Director Peterson. “When shareholders step forward, our community grows
(Continued on page 7)
Repairs on the gas risers have been completed in the laundry rooms in Buildings 15, 23, 24, 25. Management is currently working with Con Edison to shut off gas service in the laundry room of Building 34 on November 24, 2025 to make necessary repairs.
On November 10, 2025, the Department of Buildings (DOB) inspection was completed for Buildings 15, 23, 24, 25. Management received gas authorization on November 18, 2025 and Con Edison was notified, and an inspection appointment was requested.
The Con Edison inspection appointment is scheduled for Wednesday, Novembr 26, 2025.
After Con Edison’s inspection is completed and passed, the Con Edison Gas Restoration Team will schedule a date to safely restore gas service to the dryers.
(Continued on page 2)

Riverbay offices will be closed on Thursday & Friday, November 27 & 28, respectively, in celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday. Offices will be closed early on Wednesday Nov. 26, at 2 p.m. For emergency services throughout the weekend, please call: MAINTENANCE: 718-320-3300, PRESS OPTION 2 PUBLIC SAFETY: 718-671-3050
WE WISH OUR READERS A BE SAFE IN YOUR CELEBRATIONS.

Because this is a multi-step process involving city and utility coordination, Management cannot estimate when gas service will be restored but will continue to work with each agency as they complete the required steps to ensure safe and compliant operation of the gas systems.
Alternative dryer access for shareholders in impacted buildings is available in the following neighboring Buildings: 8, 10B, 16B, 17, 20B, 21B, 22B, 33 and 35.
Management apologizes for the inconvenience and appreciates shareholders continued patience and understanding as this necessary work is completed. Further updates will be shared as additional information becomes available.
—Riverbay Management
Co-op City shareholders currently receiving the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) were mailed a SCRIE recertification package by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).
HPD administers the SCRIE program for housing developments in the Mitchell-Lama program.
Please note that this recertification process only applies to the 1,618 senior shareholders in Co-op City who currently receive SCRIE.
Recipients must be careful to safeguard the original recertification form mailed to their homes because each form has a unique bar code that identifies the shareholder the form was mailed to. Therefore, the recertification form cannot be duplicated or shared with anyone else. This original form with the specific bar code is the only form that will be accepted by HPD.
Shareholders filling out the recertification form will need their income for the year 2024.
The deadline to return the recertification form is December 15, 2025. A SCRIE return envelope is included in the mailing and must be used to return the form. SCRIE recertification return envelopes must not be deposited into the carrying charge boxes. Forms mailed to any other address except the one specified in the mailing will not be accepted and will be returned to the shareholder.
The return address is:
Division of Housing Supervision
P.O. Box 3132
Union, NJ 07083
Attn: SCRIE Unit
For information about SCRIE or questions about your recertification, please contact SCRIE at (212) 863-6946 or email scrie@hpd.nyc.gov.


















Find out what’s going on in Co-op City here...
City Council Member Kevin Riley, NY Common Pantry and other local partners are sponsoring a turkey give-away at 135 Einstein Loop on Monday, Nov. 24, 2025 starting at 10 a.m., while supplies last. First come, first served. Please bring your own bags or cart to carry distributed goods.
On Monday, Nov. 24, local elected officials will hold a Thanksgiving turkey give-away at the back of the Bartow Mall starting at 12 p.m. First come, first served, so arrive early.
This distribution is organized by NYS Senator Jamaal Bailey, US Congressman George Latimer, Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, City Council Member Kevin Riley and NYS Assemblyman Michael Benedetto in partnership with NY Common Pantry, Uptown Riders and other local sponsors.
Please bring your own bags or cart.
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
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.
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).
By BRANDON ORTIZ
New York City unveiled the next step in expanding after-school programming on November 18.
Called the “After-School for All” plan, the city will add 10,000 additional after-school seats in 75 public schools and 11 community centers located in areas of need by fall of 2026. This latest expansion comes on the heels of a sizable step in delivering universal after-school programming, as the city launched 40 new after-school sites this fall, thanks to an initial $21 million investment from the city to kick off the push for universal after-school programming. This fall brought 5,000 additional after-school seats and the city will add another 5,000 by fall of 2026, reaching the total expected amount of 10,000.
After adding a total of 10,000 seats by fall of 2026, the city expects to add another 5,000 seats during the 2027-2028 school year, bringing the combined total to

2nd Front Page
184,000 available after-school seats.
Mayor Adams’ administration invested $331 million to implement universal after-school programming, bringing the total investment to $755 million by 2027. Starting in the 2028 fiscal year, the total investment of $755 million will then be baselined annually to support after-school programming for city public school students.
Mayor Adams discussed the importance of providing after-school programming for public school students on November 18.
“By opening 40 new after-school sites and adding 5,000 seats this school year — the largest expansion in over a decade — we’re giving young people the opportunities they deserve and telling hard-working parents: we see you and we’re investing in your future,” said Mayor Adams. “But we aren’t resting on our laurels. We’re also giving providers their fi rst pay raise in 10 years, creating 10,000 more seats for 2026, and strength-
By BRANDON ORTIZ
The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) shared six design options for future sidewalk sheds on November 18.
Mayor Eric Adams joined DOB Commissioner Jimmy Oddo to reveal the six designs for sidewalk sheds, also referred to as scaffolding, which will begin appearing across the city as soon as 2026. Mayor Adams first introduced his initiative, “Get Sheds Down,” in July of 2023 with the goal of phasing out the hunter green pipe-and-plywood sheds in favor of modern ones while still maintaining safety.


The first design, called the Speed Shed, would be intended for emergency repair work and short-term projects. While not a design meant for extended projects, the Mayor’s Office highlighted that this particular design is “quick to deploy and quick to move,” with a netting roof that allows sunlight through.
Next, long-term projects involving high-rise buildings or tower crane operations would feature the second design,
the Rigid Shed. Design three is the Baseline Shed, featuring a hybrid approach with both a light and heavy-duty variant for a variety of projects. Similar to design one, design three



Every year, there are always a few “must-have” toys on most kids’ holiday wish lists. The hot toy sells out fast and becomes expensive and hard to find. In 2025, top toy lists from CNET and Toy Insider highlight interactive, tech-driven, and imaginative play favorites. This year’s standouts include Po the AI Story Bear, an artificial-intelligence-powered plush that tells stories; Furby DJ Furby Rainbow and Disney Ultimate Stitch Interactive Plush, both responsive toys with sound and motion; and Gabby’s Dollhouse Meow-mazing Interactive Dollhouse, which lets kids recreate scenes from the hit show. STEM-focused toys like Kanoodle’s Brain Teaser and Magna-Tiles Rail Racers Deluxe Set also made the cut, alongside classic favorites such as Cry Babies and new LEGO Technic Ferrari FXX K sets.
The recently restocked Nintendo Switch 2 is also generating major buzz as one of the hottest gifts of the season. While pricing for the new console remains steady, adjustments to older Switch models and accessories earlier this year have fueled even more interest among shoppers hoping to get their hands on the upgraded system. Major retailers have released curated lists of their predicted holiday bestsellers.
If you are shopping for a child this holiday season, don’t let scammers trick you into accidentally buying a fake (or non-existent) version of a popular toy. Watch out for these tricks.
How The Scam Works
You are looking for one of this season’s hot toys, but it’s sold out at every store you visit. You decide to do a quick online search or spot an ad in your social media feed. This takes you to a website that miraculously has the toy in stock. The site may look professional and have original images of the product. It may even offer the product at discounted prices, claiming a “last-minute deal” or “flash sale.”
Unfortunately, many such offers are fake. In many cases reported to BBB Scam Tracker, buyers thought they were ordering a high-quality toy. Instead, they received a cheap counterfeit version. In other cases, the products never shipped and the websites vanished. In either case, when the dissatisfied customers tried to follow up with the company, they found that the staff either didn’t respond or refused to provide a refund.
For example, one shopper told BBB Scam Tracker that they ordered an AI panda online. “This company promised a AI panda that reacts with your touch,what i recieved [sic] is a small stuffed panda with a hanging string in its head and no battery or electrical components, just a cheap claw machine toy,

the ad is very misleading as it shows a stuffed panda reacting to your touch, stating it is a calming bear.”
Another shopper ordered the popular Labubu toy, only to be met with disappointment. The shopper reported to BBB Scam Tracker, “My son ordered a labubu, and didn’t realize it was fake. After some digging I realized the entire website is a scam and I quickly tried to cancel the order. It will not let you. I tried to email the company, tried to chat. I have not gotten any contact back. I’m currently fighting my bank for a dispute.”
Tips To Avoid Toy Scams
Be careful on social media. Scammers can do market research and may know what toy you’re searching for. Instead of clicking on a link from a social media ad, consider opening a browser and going directly to trusted retailer websites.
Only buy toys from reputable stores and websites. The best way to avoid getting scammed when purchasing toys is to buy them directly from a seller you know and trust. Learn how to recognize a fake website.
Don’t be fooled by extra-low prices. Unreasonably low prices are a red flag for a scam on many products. Avoid making a purchase from a retailer you aren’t familiar with just because the price sounds too good to be true – it probably is!
Research before you buy. If a company seems legitimate, but you aren’t familiar with it, be extra careful with your personal information. Before offering up your name, address, and credit card information, make sure the company has a working customer service number.
Look for the BBB Seal: It’s the Sign of a Better Business. BBB Accredited Businesses pledge to uphold the BBB Standards for Trust and to deal fairly with consumers. If a business displays a BBB seal, verify it by going to BBB.org.
If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to BBB Scam Tracker. Your report can help others.

Co-op City Department of Public Safety (718) 671-3050 www.ccpd.us
If you SEE something, SAY something!

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright
SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson & Leah Richardson
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: November 19th, 2025
WHEREAS, For 50+ years Co-op City has proudly provided affordable housing to middle income families under New York State’s Mitchell-Lama Housing Program; and
WHEREAS, Many Co-op City residents have aged in place and now wish to downsize but cannot afford to do so due to HCR Occupancy Regulations; and
WHEREAS, Following discussions with HCR, on July 31, 2025, Management submitted a request for a permanent waiver of HCR’s occupancy regulations to allow zero equity transfers for eligible shareholders seeking to downsize. A copy of the July 31, 2025 permanent waiver request is attached; and WHEREAS, the points of Management’s July 31, 2025 downsizing program are:
(1)The waiver would be permanent.
(2)Eligibility would be limited to shareholders (heads of household) who are 62 years of age or older or who would otherwise be considered handicapped for eligibility purposes under the New York City DRIE program.
(3)The eligible shareholder’s annual income could not exceed $59,000, the current approximate median household income for Co-op City based on data from the 2025 annual income affidavits. It would not be available to any shareholder who is currently paying a surcharge of any amount.
(4)The transferring shareholder would not be required to pay the current equity price for the new apartment but would have the value of their existing equity transferred to the new apartment.
(5)The transferring shareholder would not be responsible for three (3) months of carrying charges for their old apartment but would be responsible for any damages beyond normal wear and tear.
(6)The transferring shareholder could move to any apartment smaller than their current unit. (e.g., a single or two-person household would be eligible for a two-bedroom unit)
(7)There would be one downsizing transfer allowed for every two (2) regular transfers.
WHEREAS, Although Management submitted a request for a permanent waiver of HCR’s occupancy regulations, HCR approval extended the waiver for five (5) years through June 30, 2030. A copy of the August 2025 approval request is attached; and
WHEREAS, The Board wants to assist eligible seniors and handicapped to downsize and continue to live in Co-op City.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the Board, notwithstanding any prior resolutions, requests that HCR review and approve Riverbay’s July 31, 2025 permanent waiver request; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the President and Management are directed to take all necessary action to carry out this resolution; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this Resolution shall be effective immediately.
YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Smith, White, Wright ABSENT: Saunders PASSED
SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury
SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: November 19th, 2025
WHEREAS, the Procurement department solicited twelve (12) qualified vendors to submit bids for the rental, maintenance, and purchase of uniforms; and WHEREAS, two (2) proposals were received and reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends Cintas Corporation as the lowest responsible bidder; and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.
NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract #4215 with Cintas Corporation for a not to exceed total of $359,513.50 plus tax for three (3) years be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.
YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Smith, White, Wright
ABSENT FOR VOTE: Leslie
ABSENT: Saunders PASSED
SUBMITTED BY: Mary Pearson
SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: November 19th, 2025
WHEREAS, Procurement conducted bids solicitations from twelve qualified companies to provide Preventive Maintenance on Call of Drywells, Sanitary, Storm Sewers and Ventilation Tunnels; and
WHEREAS, Procurement received two (2) proposals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and
WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends awarding Contract #4220 for Preventive Maintenance for On-Call of Drywells, Sanitary, Storm Sewers and Ventilation Tunnels in the amount of $2,925,462.57 plus applicable taxes for a 3-year contract term to Adriatic Artisan Work Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder; and
WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.
NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #4220, for Preventive Maintenance for On-Call of Drywells, Sanitary, Storm Sewers and Ventilation Tunnels in the amount of $2,925,462.57 plus applicable taxes for a 3-year contract term to Adriatic Artisan Work Inc. be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.
YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Smith, White, Wright
ABSTAIN: Leslie
ABSENT: Saunders
SUBMITTED BY: Andrea Leslie SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: November 19th, 2025
WHEREAS, Riverbay has been purchasing 9X9 wood floor panels from Spec Living Inc. that are used in occupied apartments to perform partial floor repairs to occupied apartments with this flooring material installed; and WHEREAS, Riverbay will purchase the 9X9 wood floor tile product at cost of $4.55 per sq. ft.; and
WHEREAS, Restoration department recommends awarding Contract #4212A for the Purchase of 9 x 9 Wood Floor Panels in the amount not to exceed $462,189.00 plus applicable taxes for a 2-year contract term to Spec Living Inc.; and
WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.
NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #4212A for the Purchase of 9 x 9 Wood Floor Panels in the amount not to exceed $462,189.00 plus applicable taxes for a 2-year contract term to Spec Living Inc. be approved by the Board as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.
YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Smith, White
NO: Johnson, Wright
ABSENT FOR VOTE: Leslie
ABSENT: Saunders PASSED


(Continued on page 9)
The downsizing program was first approved by HCR back in 2019 as a pilot program and it was the very first time that the supervisory agency had issued approval for an apartment downsizing waiver to a Mitchell-Lama housing corporation. The program allowed seniors and shareholders who are considered handicapped for eligibility purposes under the New York City Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) Program the opportunity to downsize without having to pay the current equity for the new apartment or the three months carrying charges for the old unit required by HCR regulations. Under the program’s waiver provisions transferring seniors and those who are DRIE-eligible would pay only for damages to the old unit beyond normal wear and tear.
Eligible shareholders who wish to learn more about the downsizing program can reach out to the Riverbay Residential Sales department at 718-320-3300, option 6.
The next resolution passed was Resolution #25-52, which pertained to a contract for the rental, maintenance, and purchase of uniforms. After a vote, the resolution was passed with 13 directors voting yes and one director absent for the vote.
The next resolution passed was Resolution #25-53, which was for a contract to provide preventive mainte-
nance for drywells, sanitary, storm sewers and ventilation tunnels. The resolution was passed with 13 directors voting yes and one director abstaining.
Up next was Resolution #25-54, which pertained to a contract for the purchasing of 9X9 wood floor tiles that are used to perform partial floor repairs in occupied apartments. After a vote, the resolution was passed with 11 directors voting yes, two directors voting no, and one director absent for the vote.
Resolution #25-55 was the next resolution discussed. This resolution was for the medical, dental and vision insurance provided to Local 153, Management, and PBA employees. The resolution was passed with 12 directors voting yes, one director voting no, and one director was absent for the vote.
The next resolution discussed was Resolution #25-56, which was a request for a time only extension for a contract with one of the turnkey contractors. This would extend the contract for another two months and would not exceed the contract’s budget.
The last resolution discussed was Resolution #25-57, which pertained to the corporation’s Pollution Liability Policy. After a vote, the resolution was passed with 13 directors voting yes and one director absent for the vote.
Notice to Shareholders...When renting a community center room, a photo I.D. with your Co-op City address is required.


The Co-op City Times is delivered every Saturday morning to the building lobbies, each townhouse door and the three community centers.
The Co-op City Times is shareholders’ official source of reliable community news and information from Riverbay Corporation’s Board of Directors and Management. It keeps you informed about what affects your building and quality of life. It is the most effective way for shareholders to stay informed, engaged and empowered.
Be sure to pick up and read your weekly Co-op City Times To read the newspaper online, visit issuu.com/cctimes. You may also connect with us on social media, @coopcitytimes.

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.

Committees ––––– (Continued from page 1)
stronger, safer and more connected. Your involvement matters––join a committee and help shape the future of ur city within a city.”
Except for the Audit Committee, any sitting Board director may attend the meetings of any committee(s) they wish to.
To ensure continuity, many of last year’s Board committee chairs have been reappointed to continue their work with their respective committees.
The Construction, Power Plant and Restoration Committee will be chaired by Board Director Bernard Cylich.
Disabilities and Accommodations Committee will be chaired by Board Director Mary Pearson.
Board President Rod Saunders will continue to chair the Board’s Legislative Committee.
The Parking & Leasing, and Commercial Space Committee will be chaired by Board Director Leah Graham.
Board Director Leslie Peterson will resume chairing the Residential Sales & Restoration (vacant units) Committee as well as the Buildings and Grounds Committee, which is open to all building and townhouse association presidents or a designee.
Board Director Jacqueline Smith will chair the Resident Safety and Security Committee and Board Director Lynette Wright will chair the Smart City & Technology Committee.
Board Director Monique Coleman will chair the Insurance Committee, and Board Director Leah Richardson, the Cooperator Appeals Committee.
The Budget, Labor and Legal Committee will consist of the Board as a whole.
By approving the chairpersons of the committees, the Board helps align committee work with its priorities, ensures that the appointed chairpersons have the support of their fellow Board directors, and are positioned to provide balanced oversight. This process also promotes fairness, accountability and a clear organizational structure that allows committees to begin their work with the authority and stability needed to effectively serve the shareholders of Coop City.
Previously, a description of each committees’ responsibilities was published in the Co-op City Times and posted on the Riverbay in-house tv channel (the Crawler) as the Board prepared for the announcement of the committee chairpersons. Shareholders were advised to review each committee and to choose those that best line up with their individual skill set and to apply to serve.
* Construction and Power Plant Committee – Bernard Cylich, chair; BCylich@riverbayboard.com
* Disabilities and Accommodations Committee – Mary Pearson, chair; MPearson@riverbayboard.com
* Legislative Committee – Rod Saunders, chair; RSaunders@riverbayboard.com
* Parking & Leasing and Commercial Space – Leah Graham, chair; LGraham@riverbayboard.com
* Residential Sales & Restoration – Leslie Peterson, chair; LPeterson@riverbayboard.com
* Resident Safety and Security – Jacqueline Smith, chair; JSmith@ riverbayboard.com
* Smart City & Technology – Lynette Wright, chair; LWright@riverbayboard.com
* Buildings & Grounds – Leslie Peterson, chair; LPeterson@riverbayboard.com
* Insurance Committee – Monique Coleman, chair; MColeman@riverbayboard.com
* Cooperator Appeals – Leah Richardson, chair; LRichardson@riverbayboard.com
* Budget, Labor and Legal Committee – Board as a whole
(Continued from page 3)
ening programs at 75 additional schools. This is the fi rst big step toward our vision of ‘After-School for All’ that will help us create a city where every child has a safe, enriching place to grow beyond the clas sroom.”
To see a comprehensive list of all the new schools offering afterschool programming starting this fall and next, visit tinyurl.com/yc7ye5rj. To find after-school programs and apply, visit https://tinyurl.com/3k87savr and check the box titled: “Youth and Afterschool Programs.”
As the city works toward bringing universal after-school programming to students, Mayor Eric Adams recently introduced the Commission on Universal After-School in September of this year. This new commission will work in an advisory capacity with developing a plan to bring after-school programming to all NYCPS students from kindergarten to eighth grade.

November 9, 2025–November 15, 2025
November 09, 2025
Rear of 140 Casals Place – A cooperator reported returning to their parked vehicle and observing broken glass on the ground near the vehicle. The vehicle was removed from the parking space by an unknown suspect without their permission.
November 11, 2025
99 Asch Loop – A CCPD officer, while off duty, observed two suspicious males wearing ski masks enter Garage 4 on the first floor and then again on the fifth floor. The two suspicious males fled the garage in a vehicle waiting outside of the garage. CCPD supervisors were notified.
November 13, 2025
2400 Hunter Avenue – CCPD responded to a dispute at the abovementioned location. Upon arrival, CCPD observed the shareholder to be intoxicated while in a dispute with a non-resident juvenile. NYPD responded and placed the shareholder under arrest. CCPD issued a Community Complaint to the shareholder for Anti-Social behavior.
Side of 2400 Hunter Avenue – A cooperator reported returning to their parked vehicle and observing that their vehicle was removed from the parking space by an unknown suspect without their permission.
November 14, 2025
1010 Baychester Avenue – While on routine patrol, CCPD observed a parked vehicle sitting on milk crates, missing all four wheels. The owner of the vehicle, an upstate resident, was unable to be notified. NYPD was notified.
120 Alcott Place – A Riverbay employee stated that they secured their work tools in the Ash Cart Room at the end of the workday. They returned to work the next morning and observed that the work tools were removed by an unknown suspect without their permission.
November 15, 2025
Side of 99 Earhart Lane – A cooperator reported returning to their parked vehicle and observing their front license plate was removed from the vehicle by an unknown suspect without their permission.
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.
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.



Metro-North Railroad Station. Last week, in the11/15/25 edition of the CCTimes, I brought up the long push for south-of-the-tracks parking and station access, starting with louder hollerin’ for that long promised MTA 3D model of the M-N station.
Why bring it up now, you ask? The station’s not scheduled for completion till 2030. Here’s why.
Besides the remarkable mayoral outcome, City Council members were also elected on November 4th. (Big Congrats to CM Kevin Reilly for his A+ 90.45% share of the votes!) Now there’s another City Council member who might prove very helpful to us in getting the access we need to the station once it comes to be, and that’s the newly elected CM Shirley Adebole.
I’d been figuratively whispering Metro-North, Metro-North in Ms. Adebole’s ear for several months in expectation of her victory because the strip of land south of the tracks is in her district, not CM Riley’s; in CCD13, not CCD12.
That’s just how district borders are drawn sometimes, with train tracks as the dividing line. So, good for us! One more person to whine to.
Who are the others? In addition to our own actual political representatives, we have our south-sideof-the-tracks’ ones. Just as that side isn’t CCD13 Riley’s turf, but CCD13 Adebole’s; it isn’t SD36 Jamaal Bailey’s, it’s SD34 Nathalia Fernandez’s; it isn’t CD16 George Latimer’s, it’s CD14 Alexandria Ocasio Cortez’s. AD82 Michael Benedetto’s district covers it all, north and south of the tracks, so double whining for him. Let’s get at it!
Slipping up in one of the two BxM7 causes. In other MTA intrigue… I sure hope nobody’s holding their breath waiting for me to tell them how many cancellations there have been of the BxM7 since April 1st. I meant to. I still mean to. But it’s
soooo tedious. And I will get to it, promise.
I have not slacked off fishing for drivers travelling the wrong way around Einstein Loop, though. But I did suffer a major setback. I’ve been taking time-lapse videos from my window. When I catch a bus going the wrong way, sometimes I can see the number quite clearly in the daytime but it’s almost impossible at night. But once in a while, a streetlamp catches the top of the wayward bus just right and…gotcha
I’ve been actively at this since February 10th, which has given me plenty of opportunity to change strategies. The latest switch was changing to real time with my updated phone instead of time-lapsing with my two ancient ones from 5 and 10 years ago. Until my tripod broke, the new method had made me a super spy! But a few days later when I was transmitting my catches to my MTA ally-in-safety, I suffered a huge setback.
It had to do with calculating the arrival time of these wayward bus drivers. At first, I had to figure out, all by my rusty self, how to determine when a bus caught in Time-Lapse time actually arrived on the wrong side of Einstein Loop in Real Time time But after struggling with that too many times, I decided to craft a sentence to feed to AI that would spit out the right answer. And yay! It took AI all of five seconds, compared to the time (I won’t tell you how long) it took for me to figure it out.
So, after a couple of months of my it’s not really cheating method, Google all of a sudden decided to charge for the service going forward. But luckily, with real time capture, no such calculating is needed. So, thank you Google for keeping me on my toes, arithmetic-wise, and thank you, MTA gal, for sticking to sticking up for our Co-op City neighbors.
Bottom line – some drivers continue to do the wrong-way thing, but fewer of them each week. Decoration Ban. Here’s a timeline. Last year,
Sidewalk Sheds –––––– (Continued from page 3) allows sunlight through the roof, albeit with a transparent roof instead of netting.

Design four, named the Air Shed, is the highest off the ground and would be attached to the building. The Air Shed is intended for facade work and window replacement projects.
Design five is the Wide Baseline Shed and would be used for major projects, particularly projects involving buildings on wide sidewalks.
Lastly, the Flex Shed is the sixth design, and this light duty shed is intended for short-term maintenance projects or emergency repairs with


unique buildings that have potential sidewalk obstructions.
Looking ahead, the New York City Department of Buildings will work to have all the designs “available for public use
our HCR representative wrote on an inspection report that the decorations in common areas –“lobbies hallways and on apartment doors” – as had been a long and common Co-op City practice and tradition, were “prohibited by FDNY regulations.” On October 1st of this year, Management announced an immediate Enforcement of FDNY Fire Code Regulations. And the decoration ban was born. As was my latest (lost?) cause.
If fire safety is truly the issue, a sensible holiday decoration compromise exists. That safe solution can be found in the NYS and NYC fire codes which state repeatedly and in great detail that, “… decorations or other objects shall not be placed so as to obstruct exits…” (FC 1027.3.5) and that they must, “… be made of flame-resistant material in… R-2 occupancies…” (FC 805.1) R-2 occupancies such as ours.
My solution: metal holiday decorations firmly attached to the doors and clings for the lobby windows. Others have other solutions. But if the Fire Codes are to be our guide, let’s follow them to the letter instead of slap-dashedly spoiling all the fun.
D&A Committee Corner. I’ll be chairing the Disability and Accommodations Committee again this season. Thank you to those who have signed up. We have lots of leftover access and accessibility business that I’m sure we’re all itching to get to. And there’s still time to join us. Joint co-chairs Michelle Marbury and Andrea Leslie and I will soon be choosing the day and time to Zoom. Zooming instead of meeting in person makes sense for the majority of our differently-abled neighbors. We can’t offer you sandwiches, but we can guarantee you don’t have to get out of your PJs to join our meetings!
Happy Thanksgiving, everybody. I hope it’s a beautiful one for you and yours; MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211.
through the agency rulemaking process,” as explained by the Mayor’s Office. Similar to how registered design professionals obtain permits for the older hunter green pipe-and-plywood sheds, when DOB makes the designs available those same contractors can begin implementing the new designs.
Mayor Adams also announced that new rules will go into effect in 2026 regarding the timely removal of sidewalk sheds. Specifically, “these include monthly Public Right of Way Penalties of up to $6,000 for sheds standing longer than 180 days, milestone penalties for owners of FISP buildings who miss repair deadlines, and an expanded Long Standing Shed Program that now targets sheds in place for three years or more with stricter enforcement and potential court action. Additionally, sidewalk shed permit durations will be shortened from one year to 90 days, requiring quarterly permit renewals with proof of progress on the underlying building repair work,” the Mayor’s Office outlined.
Mayor Adams also detailed his optimism for the addition of more modern sidewalk sheds and new rules for how long sheds can remain on a sidewalk.
“For too long, scaffolding and outdated and cumbersome sidewalk sheds have blocked sunlight, hurt small businesses, and cluttered our neighborhoods, but today marks a major step forward in our mission to reimagine New York City’s streetscape,” said Mayor Adams. “These reforms — along with the enforcement measures coming in 2026 — advance our ‘Get Sheds Down’ initiative and bring us closer to a city where New Yorkers can enjoy safe, vibrant, and beautiful streets once again.”
(Continued from page 5)
SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman
SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: November 19th, 2025
WHEREAS, Riverbay provides medical, dental and vision insurance to Local 153, Management, and PBA employees and the present medical, dental and vision insurance for such employees ends December 31, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Human Resources department has reviewed all quotations in collaboration with the broker and is pleased to report that they were able to successfully negotiate key improvements with the new medical, dental and vision insurance provided by UnitedHealthcare – UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan:
• Medical Coverage: A 9.1% reduction in the renewal rates, resulting in a total premium reduction of $459,860
• Dental Coverage: A 2 % discount of $91,411 off the UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan medical insurance if Riverbay Corporation includes the dental coverage with UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan. This helps to offset the small increase in the dental coverage costs, because of switching from Cigna to UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan.
• Vision Coverage: An additional 1 % discount of $45,705 off the UHC/Oxford Liberty Network medical insurance if Riverbay Corporation includes switching the vision coverage from EyeMed to UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan.
• Additional Benefits: $30,000 for wellness fund.
WHEREAS, the Human Resources department has reviewed all quotations with our broker and recommends awarding the present medical, dental and vision insurance to UnitedHealthcare –UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan Insurance. Since the Medical insurance will provide a 9.1% decrease in renewal rates, further by including dental insurance with UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan, Riverbay Corporation receives a 2% discount of $91,411 off the UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan medical insurance. Inclusive, by switching the vision insurance to UHC/ Oxford with Liberty Network Plan, Riverbay receives an additional 1% ($45,705) discount.
WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.
NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: In accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16, as amended by Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19, Management recommends approval of the proposed award of the medical, dental and vision insurance to UnitedHealthcare – UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan with a 9.1% decrease in renewal rates, and by including dental insurance with UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan, Riverbay receives a 2% discount of $91,411 off the UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan and by also switching the vision insurance to UHC/Oxford Liberty Network Plan, Riverbay received an additional 1% ($45,705) discount. The term of this award would be effective January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.
YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Smith, White, Wright NO: Johnson
ABSENT FOR VOTE: Leslie
ABSENT: Saunders
PASSED
ABSTAIN: Saunders PASSED
SUBMITTED BY: Leslie Peterson
SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: November 19th, 2025
WHEREAS, the turnkey contractors continue to successfully renovate turnkey apartments; and
WHEREAS, Rainier has proven to be an efficient contractor in terms of production and handing of completed units in a timely manner; and
WHEREAS, Contract 3425E with Rainier is for labor only and the contract value has not reached or exceeded the budgeted amount; and WHEREAS, Management recommends a time only extension of contract 3425E with Rainier from January 27, 2026, to March 31, 2026, a 2-Month Extension; and
WHEREAS, this request supports Restoration department’s goal of restoring 420 units per year and is a crucial initial step in aligning the Turnkey contracts with our fiscal year budget cycles.; and
NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED, that notwithstanding Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 as amended by Board of Directors Resolution #9544 and Resolution #20-19, that the Board authorizes the extension of time for Turnkey contract #3425E with Rainier from January 27, 2026, to March 31, 2026, a 2-Month extension.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.
YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Smith, White, Wright NO: Johnson
ABSTAIN: Saunders
PASSED
SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman
SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright
ABSENT: Saunders PASSED Resolutions
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: November 19th, 2025
WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Pollution Liability Policy is presently with Ironshore Surplus Lines Insurance Company, for a limit of $25,000,000 per occurrence/$25,000,000 aggregate with a $250,000 deductible, at an expiring annual policy premium of $514,009.00 (inclusive of terrorism, surplus lines taxes and fees) for the policy period 12/1/24 to 12/1/25; and
WHEREAS, The Director of Riverbay’s Risk Management, after instructing NFP Property & Casualty Services, Inc., Riverbay’s Pollution insurance broker, to conduct a marketing program promoting Riverbay’s installation of a Copper Ionization System in all residential buildings which has resulted in no losses, now recommends renewing the Pollution Liability Policy with Ironshore Surplus Lines Insurance Company (see attached handout) for a limit of $25,000,000 per occurrence/$25,000,000 aggregate with a $250,000 deductible, for an annual renewal premium of $418,063.00, an 18.67% decrease (inclusive of terrorism, surplus lines taxes and fees) over the expiring policy premium.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves placing the Pollution Liability Policy with Ironshore Surplus Lines Insurance Company for an annual renewal premium of $418,063.00 for the policy period 12/1/25 to 12/1/26.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
YES: Coleman, Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Smith, White, Wright
ABSENT FOR VOTE: Leslie



Despite our regulations, some folks are still allowing their dog to act out in a bad manner in our community. In fact, without provocation, some dogs have been on our greenway without a leash barking and lunging at some of our cooperators. So, let’s review a few things about our greenway. Then, we can review some issues with some dog owners.
Lots of cooperators love to walk, run, ride, and do other exercises around our greenway. However, they may have encountered some issues on our greenway that needed to be addressed. In some cases, there may have been conflicts with some bicycle riders.
And, here is basically how some of the conflicts went down: Cooperators: “You almost ran into me with your bicycle. So, why were you riding your bicycle near me?” Bicycle riders: “No, you were in my way.” But, those were just the beginning words.
To resolve this matter, lanes were drawn on the entire greenway. Bicycle riders had their own lane printed on the greenway. The other lane was for everyone else. So, the main point was that everyone had to stay in their lane.
Now, can you believe that some dog owners are allowing their dog to act out on our greenway? Can you believe that they have no problem allowing their dog to be on our greenway without a leash? Furthermore, some dog owners have allowed their dog to bark and lunge at folks while they were simply walking on our greenway.
Bottom line: Several laws clearly state that dog owners must control their dog. Therefore, our board and our Public Safety Department must make sure that these laws are enforced throughout our entire community. So, please call our Public Safety Department immediately at 718-671-3050 if a dog owner is allowing their dog to violently act out in our community. Now, please read on to see how some courts responded to a violent dog case.
Dog Owner Gets Sued
Going to court can be very expensive. Nevertheless, everyone needs to understand that there are consequences when bad choices are made that harm people. For instance, some dog owners are not concerned about their dog’s behavior. So, some victims made a choice to take legal action against some of those dog owners.
On April 18, 2017, a dog reportedly bit a female jogger on her right thigh. This incident happened in Brooklyn while the dog was on a long leash. The defendant “conceded liability prior to trial.” So, a jury awarded “$400,000 for past pain and suffering, and $200,000 for future pain and suffering.” Then, a higher court reduced that verdict to $150,000 for past pain and suffering, and $100,000 for future pain and suffering.
Bottom line: Dog owners need to understand that large judgments can be rendered against them if their dog harms someone. Furthermore, you can be sure that most lawyers will go after every asset that a defendant owns.
Therefore, we need for our dog owners to please do your best to control your dog. The first thing that you should do is to make sure that your dog is on a good leash. Then, with good training, please make sure that your dog is not violently lunging at people. Your anticipated kindness in this matter is appreciated.
Thanksgiving – Be Peaceful
Can you believe that some family members allegedly had a big fight over the preparation of a turkey? Thereafter, can you believe that this crazy fight escalated in such a bad manner that two men were wrestling and rolling on the floor. Then, some of the ladies started fighting. So, the police were called. Now, can you guess where some of those family members spent their Thanksgiving at? That’s right, some of those family members spent their Thanksgiving in jail.
Bottom line: Thanksgiving dinner arrangements should be peaceful. But, unfortunately, some folks love to act up, bring up the past, and cause problems. Moreover, some folks will go to a relative’s home just to drink heavily and to act out. Therefore, you have to make your own deci-
sions about your association with them. Nevertheless, I hope that everyone will have a Happy Thanksgiving.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Lots of people will be partying and having a good time during this Thanksgiving holiday. So, the police will have checkpoints to catch impaired drivers. Also, the police will be looking for people that are driving vehicles in an unsafe manner. So, I want to encourage everyone to please do not drink and drive. Thank you.
LA Fitness in Bay Plaza – Closed
The LA Fitness gym in Bay Plaza closed down on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. So, that’s a big loss for our community because some of us had a good time at this gym. So, I want to encourage everyone to continue taking good care of yourself. And, please do your best to create some positive memories.
Close
I hope that everyone will have a joyous and a Happy Thanksgiving.
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.




On Oct. 24, Mayor Eric Adams encouraged e-Bike and other e-mobility device users to slow down when riding on city streets as a new 15 mile-per-hour (MPH) speed limit for e-Bikes takes effect citywide. First announced earlier this year, the Adams administration submitted a final rule in the City Record last month that sets the new speed limit for e-Bikes, e-Scooters, and pedal-assist commercial bicycles to match the same speed limit that currently applies to stand-up e-Scooters. The new rule mirrors best practices for e-Bike speeds in many other parts of the world, including the European Union, which has implemented speed restrictions for e-Bikes of 25 kilometers-per-hour (approximately 15 MPH) in bike lanes.
“Under our administration, New York City is leading the nation in keeping our streets safe for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike, and I am proud that our work has led to traffic fatalities dropping to some of the lowest levels in New York City history,” said Mayor Eric Adams. “Our administration has always been one that listens to communities and takes action based on those needs, and, time and again, we have heard New Yorkers from across the five boroughs share their concerns about e-bikes speeding recklessly through our streets. Today, I
am thrilled to be delivering for communities across our city by lowering the speed limit for e-bikes to 15 MPH. Lowering the speed limit will protect e-Bike riders, pedestrians, and everyone who shares our streets. As New Yorkers adjust to this new law, our focus will be on education first and enforcement second — this includes installing new signage in key cycling corridors and issuing warnings to first time offenders. To be clear, this isn’t about criminalization; it’s about creating safer, fairer conditions for all New Yorkers.”
Overall, traffic fatalities are down significantly in 2025; through the first three quarters, traffic deaths declined by 18% compared to the same period last year. Lowering the speed limit will further this progress by protecting e-Bike riders, pedestrians, and all who share New York City’s streets.
The city will be focusing on education before enforcement to help New Yorkers adapt to the new rule, including by installing new signage in key cycling corridors and issuing warnings to first-time offenders. The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) are also conducting on-the-ground outreach to raise awareness among e-bike riders. Additionally, this outreach includes safety messaging deployed on LinkNYC kiosks across the city and push notifications via NotifyNYC by email and text — translated into Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Bengali, Haitian Creole, Korean, Arabic, Urdu, French, Polish, Italian, and Yiddish. Furthermore, educational materials are being provided to major app and delivery worker organizations to ensure delivery workers are informed of the change.

As cyclists adjust to the new speed limit, the NYPD will issue warnings to cyclists who exceed the speed limit, utilize the 15 MPH rule as a secondary violation when witnessing other offenses, and deploy digital speed signs along major bike lanes to deter speeding. The NYPD will continue to monitor collision data to guide where resources are deployed and ensure enforcement focuses on improving safety for all street users.
The city continues to stand with delivery workers and is exploring additional steps to support cycling growth, including by launching the Department of Sustainable Delivery within the DOT to hold delivery apps accountable and further improve safety for riders and pedestrians. New York City has supported delivery workers in transitioning to safer, certified bikes and batteries. Through the E-Bike Trade-in Program, over 400 delivery workers have received free certified e-bikes and batteries in exchange for illegal or unsafe vehicles. Since the start of the Adams administration, the city has focused on removing illegal vehicles from city streets — with the NYPD seizing more than 120,000 illegal motorized vehicles and ghost cars — a major effort directly tied to making the city’s streets safer for everyone.
With illegal dumping summonses up more than 20% in the last fiscal year, the Department of Sanitation reminds New Yorkers they can receive a significant bounty for helping the Department catch criminals who dump on our neighborhoods.
“Too often, crooked contractors steal our public space by dumping materials in streets, lots and sidewalks that they perceive to be out of the way,” said Acting New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Javier Lojan. “We are catching more and more of these criminals with in-person surveillance and an expanded network of hidden cameras — and we also welcome assistance from the everyday New Yorkers who know these neighborhoods best. Provide us valuable information to catch these criminals, and you could be eligible for half the $4,000 fine.”
DSNY has two bounty programs that provide awards to people who witness and report illegal dumping:
• Illegal Dumping Award Program: Complete an affidavit and/or submit a video after witnessing illegal dumping. When the lawbreaker is fined, the witness is eligible for 50% of the fine that the City collects. If the lawbreaker challenges the ticket at the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH) hearing, the witness must attend. Videos can be emailed to IllegalDumpingTips@dsny.nyc.gov.
• Illegal Dumping Tip Program: Anyone who tips off the City – so that we can catch an illegal dumper in the act – is eligible for a reward of up to 50% of the fine collected. The tipster’s identity remains confidential – so he or she won’t have to appear at a hearing.
Note that illegal dumping is distinct from littering, as it refers specifically to dumping from a vehicle. If you witness illegal dumping, a video of the dumping taking place is most helpful to the Department, with a clear picture of the license plate. Do not approach or engage with the dumpers.
Those caught dumping materials on our neighborhoods have their vehicles impounded, and face summonses that begin at $4,000, plus the cost of cleaning.
In the last three years, DSNY deployed a network of more than 300 hidden cameras to catch illegal dumpers. In Fiscal Year 2025, the Department issued 21% more summonses for illegal dumping than the previous fiscal year, for a total of 872, and impounded 417 illegal dumping vehicles, a 46% increase over Fiscal Year 2024.
The Department has cleaned at least one million pounds of material left by illegal dumpers in the last year – and the total may be two to three times that. DSNY needs New Yorker’s help to stop this criminal theft of public space.




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.

Discounted transient parking will once again be available for the 2025 Holiday seasons in all Co-op City parking facilities.
Transient parking is significantly discounted to $12 between 12 p.m. to 6 a.m. on the following holidays:
• Thanksgiving: Thursday, Nov. 27, from 12 p.m. to Friday, November 28, 6 a.m.
• Christmas Eve: Wednesday, Dec. 24, from 12 p.m., through Christmas Day, Thursday, Dec. 25, at 6 a.m.
• Christmas Day: Thursday, Dec. 25, from 12 p.m. through Friday, Dec. 26, at 6 a.m.
• New Year’s Eve: Wednesday, Dec. 31, from 12 p.m., through Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, at 6 a.m.
Please note that vehicles exiting the garages after 6 a.m. will be subject to overtime charges.
Vehicles parked in the garages prior to 12 p.m. and after 6 a.m. on the days listed above are required to pay regular parking rates – $12 for up to 3 hours, $22 for up to 6 hours; $33 for up to 12 hours and $57 for up to 24 hours.
Visitors taking advantage of the reduced parking rate should take a parking ticket upon entering the garage. When leaving, cash, debit or credit card payments will be accepted at Pay Stations in the garages. Only credit and debit cards are accepted at the garage exit gate.















































Toastmasters Welcomes You

Come one, come all, Toastmasters Clubs are having a ball!You, our friends, are welcome tojoin in the fun right here in Co-op City. The year 2025 is ebbing; however, we are forging ahead non-stop becausewe are here for you in and around the community. There are two clubs: Co-op City Toastmasters (CCTM) and Bronx Advanced Speakers (BAS)and both are committed to helping members identify and improve their communication and leadership skills.Meetings are held in Dreiser Center, 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 5. CCTMmeetsonthefirstandthirdThursdayofeachmonthandBASmeets on the second Tuesday of the month. You are welcome to come and hopefully become a Toastmaster(schedule below).
We offer a multifaceted agenda including games, prepared speeches, jokes, invited guestspeakers and lots of great surprises.One favorite segment is “Table Topics,” where everyone is encouraged to speakextemporaneously and in a limited time frame. Hats off to CCTM Pres. Kim Sudderth, SR5for elevating thissegment to higher heights. Ithasbecomean all-time meeting favorite. Shehas been delighting us with a variety ofnew ideas/games/jokes, etc. thatsparkcreativeand critical thinking. For example,in a recent meeting, guests(randomly chosen) had touse a series of words and pictures to create compound wordsand a story in a limited timeframe. Imagine that. Responses were hilarious and awesome





to witness howthe mind’s-eye works. Additionally, BAS Pres. Jeff DuQuesne, DTM, continues to bring many certifiedprofessionalspeakers and entrepreneurs to share their public-speaking expertise. We have hosted runners-up in the World Champion of Public Speaking Contests Toastmasters, etc. We are proud of Toastmasters World Intl.President Radhi Spear, DTM, who is from our district and has also led training forums for us.Come to BAS, at any level, and join in the discussions, evaluations and surprises.Come and meet new like-minded adults. A Toastmaster once said, “Your presence is your occupation.” Allthis and more awaits you when you join CCTM or BAS Toastmasters.Looking forward to seeing you. Schedule below.Please join us at our next regular meeting as follows: CCTM – First and third Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m.Doors open at 7 p.m. on Dec. 4 and Dec. 18.

BAS – Second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.Doors open at 6:30 p.m. on Dec.9.
Wewisheveryone a happyholidayseasonandsaluteourselflessveterans, past and present.
Watch community billboards for special events.
––L. Jaysura








On Thursday, November 13, JASA Bartow OAC hosted an appreciation brunch in honor of all who volunteer their time to help the organization. Volunteers received certificates, presented by Program Director Ann Moncrieffe. Special guests included Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, Riverbay Corporation Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton, and Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith III.
First on the agenda was a mention of our building’s bylaws and the willingness to share this information (with modifications) with those interested. Next, it was announced that we are looking for someone to fill the important position as vice president (to fill in only in the absence of the president). The candidate must be a member in good standing and attend the monthly meetings. This is an interesting and valued position, and we encourage enthusiastic cooperators who would like to contribute back to our community. Then, the speakers for the evening were presented: Chief Andre Waring, with Captain Torres and Sergeant Lugo. Chief Waring was with the NYPD, where he retired as detective after 20 years and where he had done extensive undercover work. He now has been at CCPD for 6 years. He explained that there are several units/programs currently in the CCPD. One is the Community Affairs Unit (handles both cooperators and commercial tenants, too). Another to be implemented is the Intelligence Unit (which will work alongside the Detective Unit). There is intention to have both a community team and a school team. Then, there is the Drone Program, which can monitor activity (including rooftops) extensively and increase speed time for police reaction. And there is more. Both Captain Torres and Sergeant Lugo emphasized that they want to maintain the quality of life for the cooperators, and police presence will be increased during the holidays. CCPD is also doing building checks (including stairway sweeps) as much as possible and as needed. CCPD is still undermanned, but working to increase their numbers. There was much discussion of loitering (note that the laws regarding loitering have changed), gangs, thefts (still mostly package thefts), drugs, drinking and smoking. All questions were answered with much insight, and a glimpse into what goes on crime-wise was also shared. Chief Waring talked about many issues and answered a number of difficult questions from the audience. However, there was far too much to be included in these brief notes – so next time, come to the meetings to find out for yourself! In any case, we are very lucky to have these dedicated and intelligent officers, and we thank them for coming to our meeting! Gospel concert for Dec. 13 has had to be cancelled.
Meanwhile, peace, safety, good health, and happy holidays to all.
––Katharine Wood
Neighbors, please remember to curb your dog. It is the law!


Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this it finds you in good standing. This past week’s Association Meeting was productive and informative. Riverbay Director Michael Ambo (Grounds) explained his duties on the Co-op City campus. Several neighbors applauded how fast the snow removal was and how gorgeous the landscaping was this past spring/summer season. He also informed the neighbors that he will be planting six new cherry blossom trees and more shrubs in the front of the building in early spring 2026. Director Toma Kastrati (Maintenance)


pledged to help several neighbors who were on the waitlist for new convector covers. Also, he explained that Maintenance only fix the convector, not replace them. He oversees 35 buildings, 3 community centers, and 7 townhouse clusters. The next association general meeting is December 10 in Dreiser, at 7.p.m. with special guest speaker CCPD Chief Andre Waring. A small holiday mixer will follow thereafter. The Bldg. 6 Association is dedicated to bringing the best information back to its shareholders. A well-informed neighbor is the best one.
Compactor Room Etiquette: Never place raw garbage down the chute. All recyclables must be rinsed out and placed into the clear bag. All bulk items must be taken down to the basement’s Ash Cart room. Food containers must be sealed and never left on the shelf. Never provide a VIP invite to roaches, so don’t be a litterbug.
Laundry Room Etiquette: Please remove your washer/dryer load within 15 minutes of completion. Never spray aerosol products inside the machine that could ignite a fire. All trash, used dryer sheets, and emptied detergent bottles should be placed into its properly marked receptacle. Parents, be mindful of your children as the laundry isn’t a playground.
As the saying goes, if you see something, say something; please call 718671-3050 or dial 911. As we enter the holiday season, there will be an uptick of seasonal depression. If anyone in your home is experiencing a mental health crisis, please dial 988. The hotline is open 24/7. President Lassiter just completed the NAMI-NYC (National Alliance on Illness) Program and is now an ambassador. Mental health seminars will return in 2026.
If any neighbor needs the help of the e-board, look to the Associations bulletin board for information. As always, we pray for safety over all.
“Kindness, like a boomerang, always returns.”
Lauren K. Lassiter
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. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Management has implemented policy in Co-op City prohibiting any decorations on Co-op City premises due to a risk of fire hazards. There are disputes about this. The HCR representative, Mr. George Simon, was in the house at the Einstein open Board meeting; however, had he been introduced to the shareholders, particularly when we were having open discussion and disputing the notion of no longer allowing public holiday decorations with the fire dept. chiefs who were there to explain the fire codes, that would have been helpful.
The building association invites the cooperators to express their concerns, opinions and ideas 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. Thanks to our cooperators who ask questions, this will help us as a community to care about one another, homes, buildings and community.
Decorations – Prohibited in public places in our buildings. If not sure, call or visit CSO here in the Einstein Center.
Collections for Working Staff – For Christmas each year, we show our gratitude and appreciation for the work done by our staff, keeping our hallways, lobbies, basements, laundry rooms, and compact 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 December 4-5 from 4 to 8 p.m. in the lobbies of Bldg. 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 center. 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 has deceased, is sick, 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
Dearest shareholders,
Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving. To all our shut-ins and anyone going through a difficult time, please do not suffer in silence. You are not alone—you have a community that truly cares.
Let’s continue to lift each other up and keep our building strong, united, and supportive.
Warmest wishes!
—Idalia Reyes
Greetings, Building 25 Association shareholders. The holiday season is rapidly approaching, and there is a chill in the air. We send warm wishes to everyone for a happy Thanksgiving, and we hope it will be wonderful.
Sick and Shut-ins: We send regards and best wishes to you and your caregiver for wisdom, strength, endurance, and community support.
Condolences: We extend our deepest sympathy to those families who lost a loved one recently. May peace of mind and support of family and friends help you cope during tough times.
Building Association Meeting: Our next building association meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, 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.
“Every day is a new beginning, be grateful and keep smiling!”
—Evelyn Herbert
Giving Thanks: Over the past few years and recently, many have lost some, prayed for some, and watched the healing of some. It is unfortunate that only during those moments do we reflect back on all the goodness and blessings that have come our way. I am giving thanks for my blessings and hope that you do the same. Although we refer to Co-op City as a community, I think of it as a family of friends. Happy Thanksgiving!
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 917-330-1380. 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 at our next association meeting.
It was suggested by one of our members that we consider doing a Parranda. (You have two weeks before our meeting to look it up–lol.) It would be early evening, but we will discuss when we meet. We usually have it after Christmas but before the New Year, and this year it may fall on Saturday, December 27, to be determined at the December meeting.
Our next building meeting will be on Tuesday, December 2, with the Chief of CCPD, Andre Waring. Many have inquired about visibility, especially when things occur like dogs off leash and noise complaints. Have suggestions? This is your opportunity. 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’s 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.
Going forward, we will have more discussion on the STAR Credit. Most Mitchell-Lama shareholders are entitled. New to STAR?Now is not the time to leave money on the table. Make sure to check the lobby bulletin board for upcoming sessions.
“Some people think they are in community, but they are only in proximity. True community requires commitment and openness. It is a willingness to extend yourself to encounter and know the other.” –David Spangler
Visit our Facebook page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City 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
Please Drive Slowly and Cautiously in all Co-op City’s Parking Facilities!
Greetings, Building 9 Association family and friends. Happy pre-Thanksgiving holiday season. Please exercise caution and discernment as we shop, travel, dine, visit during the upcoming holidays. Please be aware of your personal, physical, and spatial environments, which include your vehicle. Park and walk in well-lit and well-traveled areas. Be well and be safe.

On Thursday, November 13, we held our monthly general membership meeting. Our guest speakers were Chief Andre Waring, Captain Frank Torres, and Det. Thomas from the Co-op City Department of Public Safety. The topics covered included specific safety and security concerns of our members such as garage safety, as well as updates on community-wide activities of concern. Chief Waring shared his history with NYPD and CCPD. Chief Waring shared improved security strategies and techniques being implemented to make policing the community more effective. He also shared his vision for more strategic use of officers to respond to known or suspected areas of concern. We are partners with CCPD, and we are effectively their additional eyes and ears in the community. The more information they have about antisocial behaviors and/ or criminal activities in the community, the better able they are to address remedies. Det. Thomas heads the CCPD Integrity Unit. Our Public Safety Officers are here to protect and serve the community. They are expected to carry out their duties with professionalism, respect, and courtesy. Should you feel an interaction requires review, please contact Det. Thomas for assistance. Captain Frank Torres has been with CCPD for many years as he advanced through the ranks. He knows the community and its residents well. When observing any reportable concerns, please gather as much information and details as you can (dates, times, locations, descriptions of individuals or vehicles involved, names or descriptions of known associates in the building or community), then contact CCPD.They will then follow up on the information and investigation. The more information you can provide, the more effectively your concerns can be addressed and resolved. Do not take matters into your own hands. Please allow our CCPD partners to do what law enforcement allows. Our gratitude to Chief Waring, Captain Torres, and Det. Thomas for the time, patience, and dedication to our community.
The December general membership meeting has been canceled.
We are in the process of planning our annual “Members-Only New Year Celebration” which is scheduled for January 24, 2026.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, 2026. Our bi-annual Executive Board election will be held at that time. More information will be posted on our lobby bulletin boards.
Next month, we will collect holiday appreciation donations for our building staff.We will lobby-sit during the first three weeks in December. Please, only give to assigned volunteers in our lobbies during these times. You must be given a receipt for your donation.
Unfortunately, there will be no management-approved decorating in our lobbies and interior public spaces. We are looking into decorating our outdoor space.
—Linda Collins

Hi, neighbors, hope your week went well. We are letting you know we don’t care that our Halloween treats were taken. That’s what they were there for. We hope they were enjoyed.
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and we wish you all the best family holiday possible.
We announce that the adult children of the Walker family, long-time recently deceased residents, have installed a plaque honoring them. It’s very similar to the one we ordered years ago for the Minor family who were devoted to our association and Co-op City.
We urge you to read the Co-op City Times. There is so much going on here in Co-op City. First of all, join a club and read the newspaper. Be part of this community.
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 nearby, but no start date is published.
Since the distribution of the latest enforcement of the fire code regarding decorating, our decorations have been removed. We need to read Director Mary Pearson’s viewpoints and support more work being done in following and especially, understanding them.
Co-op City exemplifies equality and respect for everyone. 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 have a number.
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 at 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 take up 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. We will be donating to the annual Toy Drive.
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 during inclement weather; tie up and close your terrace accessories. Accolades to our groundskeeper, he does a wonderful job.
—Eva Kindaichi Lazaar
Greetings, fellow Building Association and Townhouse Association presidents.
The holiday season is upon us already!
Our meeting was held on Monday, November 17, in an effort to free members for their Thanksgiving holiday duties and responsibilities. Our first guest speaker was Bethany, LMSW,from JASA. She heads JASA’s Social Work department. She spoke about services offered by JASA to our seniors, including mental health assessment and assistance. For more information, you may contact Bethany at JASA.
Our second presenters were Riverbay Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith, Riverbay Finance Director Averil James-Bonnette, and representatives from Capstone. Capstone administers our online Income Affidavit pilot project. AEGM Cary Smith gave an overview of the pilot project. Capstone representatives gave an update on how the process works.
As we know, technology is the wave of the future.Every business is going paperless these days. Riverbay is no exception. While the online process may not be ideal for everyone, online or paperless Income Affidavit completion and submission could save Riverbay Corporation time and money in the use of man-hours and other resources required for manual processing of approx. 15,372 income affidavits.There have been some user-friendly changes made in the completion requirement process. Now, the Head of Household will complete the form for all members of the household. Then, each adult member of the household will be able to sign on independently to “sign” the affidavit before it is submitted. Please ensure all required documents are uploaded and attached. This return to a more streamlined process will make it more user-friendly for our entire population.Questions, suggestions, and concerns were taken from our members by Riverbay Management and by Capstone. This information-gathering and sharing session can be the basis for an online process that will better serve our entire community. We thank our Riverbay Corporation managers for their assistance and support.
Our treasurer, Jewel Crawford-Duncan, presented the Financial Report. Our secretary presented the October minutes which were read and accepted with any necessary corrections.
Aaron Carnegie, a Kevin Riley staffer, presented various upcoming events being sponsored by the NYC 12th District Council Member during the next month.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 15, at 7 p.m., in Bartow Center, Rm. 31. Please join us.
Please pay your $20 membership dues in December.
Remember, the choices we make today, shape our tomorrows. Choose wisely.
—Linda Collins
Annual Veterans Commemoration in Co-op City and its Neighboring Communities Continues with Elected Officials and Business Leaders
On Thursday, November 13, as sponsored by the office of Senator Jamaal Bailey, Co-op City continued its “Thank You to Our Heroes” commemoration of last Saturday.
Senator Bailey and his son attended the “thank you” luncheon for veterans from all branches of service. A healthy “thank you” to Senator Bailey on his well pointed and received message about his own living experience of the meaning of Veterans Day.
On November 13, Cdr. A. Codrington and Service Officer J. Davis were invited to a “Meet our Neighbour” Supper & Conversation with Anthony Mormile, Vanessa Baijnauth, and their team members.

During the meet and greet, we met and networked with prominent businesses, history members, and two community affairs officers from the 49th Precinct. They provided valuable dos and don’ts tips to prevent becoming a victim of crime.
An hour into supper, Anthony and Vanessa honored Cdr. Codrington and Service Officer Davis for their service to our nation. They presented the veterans with gifts and a check towards supporting Post 1871 operations on behalf of the community veterans and families served.
Pictured above is Service Officer J. Davis thanking Anthony, Vanessa, their team, and all the attendees for the bestowed honors during Veterans’ week.
Contact Us
American Legion Post 1871, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 41, Bronx, NY 10475. Phone: 718-320-8165. Email: americanlegion@post1871.net. Website: https:www.legion.org
—Antonio Codrington
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 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 646-3058013.
Health Committee – 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.
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. Stay tuned!
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month – This special month is set aside to raise awareness and promote healthier lifestyles to prevent and manage diabetes. Over 37 million Americans have diabetes, and 1 in 5 of them don’t know they have it. The “4 Ps of diabetes” are not a standard medical term but can refer to the classic symptoms of polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), polyphagia (increased hunger), plus polyneuropathy (nerve damage). People with diabetes often experience one or more of the 4 Ps associated with all types of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2, gestational diabetes, and pre-diabetes. Proper management is crucial to avoid potential complications arising from these symptoms. It is essential for those diagnosed with diabetes to closely monitor their blood sugar levels and make lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise and medication to manage the symptoms and prevent complications.
NCNW National – National Council of Negro Women is an “organization of organizations,” comprised of over 350 campus and community-based sections and 37 national women’s organizations that enlightens, inspires, and connects more than 2 million women and men. Its mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families and communities. It was founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential educator and activist, and for forty years, the iconic Dr. Dorothy Height was president of NCNW.
Thanksgiving Holiday – Did you know that Thomas Jefferson was the only president who refused to declare Thanksgiving a national holiday? He opposed government-proclaimed days of thanks because he believed it violated the separation of church and state. He felt that issuing a proclamation for a religious observance was an inappropriate use of presidential power, a stance that differed from his predecessors like George Washington. It was not until Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation in 1863 that Thanksgiving was officially established as a national holiday on a recurring basis.
—Joyce Howard
The Thanksgiving holiday is here, and I want to seize this opportunity to thank all the members of the association who keyed into the goals and aspirations of the organization for their commitment and outstanding selfless work to give us a voice here in the community. I am pleased to announce that during the meeting tomorrow, we will be participating in a free turkey giveaway in celebration of Thanksgiving. So, anyone who is interested should reach out to the recording secretary, Ms. Reva Jones. These turkeys will not only be for members alone, but also for anyone in the community who shows interest in our programs. With that in mind, the giveaway will be first come, first served, after those individuals who already indicated their willingness ahead of time.
The association meeting was rescheduled from last week to tomorrow, Sunday, November 23, due to our efforts to make sure that our turkey giveaway program did not happen too soon. At the meeting, we will be having a guest Speaker: Pastor Michael Adolphus, Sr. who will conduct a free Quest Diagnostic Biometric Health Screening. This is a holistic wellness assessment that includes a biometric screening (height, weight, blood pressure evaluation), and a Health Risk Assessment (evaluating your family history, lifestyle, and current wellness behaviors), all in one. So, I encourage us to invite our family members and friends to take advantage of this opportunity and be at the meeting tomorrow. We have also concluded arrangements to make sure that
On Saturday, December 6, at 12 p.m. join us at the Drammeh Center for our next Lunch & Learn hands-on Candle-Making Workshop where you’ll create your own beautiful candles using premium materials and curated holiday scents. Learn, create, and discover how to market your creations—just in time for the holidays!
Your Ticket Includes: All candle-making materials and supplies; a selection of curated holiday scents; step-by-step creative guidance; marketing and branding insights; and your own handcrafted candles to take home.
For candle-making novices, or complete beginners, this event is perfect for anyone looking to create unique gifts for loved ones. Seating is limited. $56 per session. Light lunch provided. For all inquiries, contact drammehcenter@gmail.com.
––Elise Edwards

Greetings, retirees and friends.
Thanksgiving is just a few days away. We wish all our members, neighbors, and friends a Happy Thanksgiving. May your tables be filled with tasty food and desserts and may you be blessed to enjoy the holiday with family and friends.
Theatre Committee – Waitlist 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 on 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 718-6715957.
Holiday Luncheon – Tickets are still 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 first-paid/first-seated basis. Please contact Daisy Young at 917292-7010, Ted Byrd at 917-797-9230, or Lillian Odom at 347-678-0745 to purchase tickets. Daisy will be available in Rm. 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.
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, Rm. 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 1 p.m. in the Dreiser Center, Auditorium C. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend.
––Georgianna Rodriguez
membership certificates will be given out at the meeting to all members of the organization who have paid their dues hitherto. One of the focal issues at the meeting will be about the review of the bylaws, which the executive board has been working on.
The city election has come and gone, and our work is in making sure that our voices are heard loud and clear is continuous. It is one thing to be partisan in our process to elect leaders, but the main job is holding accountable whoever eventually emerges as the leader. So, I encourage everyone to shun politics and leave rhetoric behind so that we can focus on the journey ahead. This accountability of whom we choose to represent us in any office starts with the local area in terms of our Board of Directors and the city officials. You don’t need to like someone to acknowledge the fact that they have been elected. Our assignment is not to like anybody but to respect their positions and hold them accountable for the offices in which they ran for. As we look forward to days ahead to ushering us into a new year, let us remember that our work of justice for all, fairness, equity, good leadership, and true democracy has just started. So, I encourage us to see this organization as a means to an end, without personal sentiments but policy-based issues that will better our people. So, let us continue to collaborate and partner with our new leaders in all positions.
Toba Adeyemi LaCrown
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. 1st.
We are collecting membership dues for 2026. The price is $30. Dues must be paid by Jan. 1.
Toy & Coat Drive – We accept donations of coats and toys. Call 646-5791701.
R&B Classics Holiday Concert – We are a sponsor to the R&B Classics on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 3 p.m. Doors open at 2 p.m. at 177 Dreiser Loop. Call: 646-771-2032.
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 start at $2,000 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 Miller’s 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 three cards; $0.25 each additional card. Tweleve games and jackpot. Refreshments.
Game Day – Tues. and Thurs. between 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dominoes, movies, socializing and more. Members only. Refreshments.
To all Members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of 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 – Carol Pope; Eleanor Alberti is doing better. Mary Pilla, our former president, sends her love to everyone. Call her at 718-753-1816. Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, in the Section 5 Community Center. Phone: 718-379-9613. Stephen cell: 347-847-1941 (Zelle available). Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net. Cash App: $StephenCarlSr. Membership dues $30 annually.
Good health to all.
––Stephen Roberts Sr.
Cooperators, please pick up your discarded fabric softener sheets and plastic shopping bags from the floor in the laundry rooms, for your safety and that of your fellow neighbors.

The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate, or mail tothe 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 meals. 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 of Building 27B, it is handicap accessible, so no steps. Our phone number is 718-3796920. 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 5:25 p.m.
Candle Lighting for Friday,November 28, at 4:10 p.m.
Good and Welfare: The congregation welcomes donations in honor or memory of a loved one.Any amount is greatly appreciated.For information about the congregation and its services, please call 646-285-1206.
To all Members: Happy anniversary to Saul and Hillary Weber, and Bruce and Edith Gitelson, whose anniversary is in November. Happy Birthdayto Hillary Weberand to allour memberswho 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
The coalition is an “organization of organizations” here in Co-op City, which is comprised of community-based standard organizations and the churches in Co-op City. The coalition continues to enlighten, inspire, and connect thousands of cooperators and families in the community. Its primary mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower stakeholders, their families and communities on a common front. I am saying this to remind organizations that are members of the coalition, but are not measuring up, to wake up and reimagine their zeal to make the organization thrive. Most of our agenda issues are cut out of the concerns of individuals and organizations and become the foundation of critical concerns as priorities. So far, our major event annually is the Pre-Kwanzaa celebration in December that happens to be the only Kwanzaa event in the North Bronx area. We are mostly known for advocacy by promoting education and creating awareness in civic engagement and social justice.
Monthly Meeting – On Tuesday, November 18, the coalition held its monthly meeting via Zoom at 12 p.m. It was such a robust meeting with members of the organizations present. The main crux of the meeting was the Pre-Kwanzaa event. The committee, headed by the recording secretary from the African-American Association, Ms. Jones, gave the report of the committee accordingly. Thus, we are going to need sponsors and supporters for this event. We are also reaching out to organizations, individuals, and/or groups as vendors to be part of the planning of this event. Members of the organization were asked to pay their dues before the end of this month. Our annual dues are mostly paid in the month of October, immediately after coming back from the summer. The dues are based on your group’s membership capacity at $1 per person, or a minimum of $50 if the association does not have up to 50 people. A check or money order may be made payable to: “Coalition of African American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc.” The coalition also welcomed the new leadership of one of its member organizations. Keith Logan and Solomon Grace are the new representatives of the Coalition to Save Affordable Housing in Co-op City. More so, we are thrilled to have Minister Jermaine Antonetty from the Co-op City Baptist Church as a new representative for that organization.
Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration – This year’s Pre-Kwanzaa event will take place on Saturday, December 20, at the Bartow Community Center, Rm. 31. The event will be an opportunity for entertainment, games, holiday prizes/ gifts, speeches, awards, food, etc. Thus, we are using this opportunity to ask you to mark your calendar, as further details will be released in our subsequent posts. Going forward, letters of support will be sent out as we are seeking sponsors. Thus, we use this opportunity to appeal to anyone who would like to partner with us to reach out to the president, the secretary, or through any of our member organizations. Thanks.
—Toba Adeyemi LaCrown
St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx NY 10475. Email: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-3200844. Priest-in-charge: Fr. Simeon Johnson; cell phone: 917-227-4303.
In-person worship service for the Last Sunday after Pentecost will be conducted at the church on Sunday, November 23, at 9 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.
Many thanks to all who attended our Men’s Day Celebration Service on Sunday, November 9. We extend our sincere thanks to our speaker, Mr. Williamson Shaw.
November 23: We will celebrate harvest and Thanksgiving.
December 14: Lessons and carols.
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.
“O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!” (Psalm 95:1)
Grace and peace!
—Tanya Blanchette
Praise through Pain
(Acts 16:16-18) “When we were going to the place of prayer,we were met by a female slave who had a spiritby which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling.She followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, ‘These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved.’She kept this up for many days. Finally Paul became so annoyed that he turned around and said to the spirit, ‘In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!’ At that moment, the spirit left her.”
The girl is trafficked by Satan, by society and by men, she is a victim of lust and greed. Paul avoids conflict for a time as he is focused on his mission but holy jealousy prevails and he rebukes the spirit.
(Acts 16:19-22) “When her owners realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silasand draggedthem to the marketplace to face the authorities.The crowd joined the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods.”
There was no justice, no trial, no rejoicing at the liberation of this woman from Satanic oppression. Like today, money, oppression of the weak, and ideology of personal preferences prevailed.
(Acts 16:25-28) “About midnightPaul and Silaswere praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. The prison doors flew open,and everyone’s chains came loose.The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself thinking the prisoners had escaped.But Paul shouted, ‘Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!’”
After a brutal day of abuse Paul and Silas are singing to God. The prisoners are astounded at this testimony of faith and are listening intently.
(Acts 16:29-31) “The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas.He brought them out and asked, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’They replied, ‘Believein the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved— you and your household.’”
Their praise resulted in God’s plan of salvation being fulfilled. They worshipped beyond the pain and God gave them a harvest.
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 at 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.
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 Adults and Youths 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 646769-9900; Access Code: 3099388#.Please mute your phone.
Worship Message: “Don’t Worry About Anything – Just Pray”
Scripture Lesson: Matthew 6:24-34 NLT “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life – whether you have enough food and
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: 712432-3900; 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 646-931-3860; Meeting ID: 886 1355 3980.
Praise is what we do! We celebrated the goodness of God and all that He has done for us through testimony and song. Deacon Samuel Wilson, Jr., opened morning worship. Deacon-In-Training Tyron
drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? So, don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”
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
Brown prayed with intent and read Isaiah 40:2931. The CPC Choir enhanced worship as they sang “Great Things” and “God is A Good God.” Then the singing and preaching Rev. Tyrone Richardson mounted the pulpit. He rendered a snippet of “We Offer Praise,” then sermonized “Aligning Myself with The Will of God,” Jeremiah 1:4-5. He said we have to avoid vain glory. We must get in alignment, see the goodness of God and get on His trajectory for your life. We need to get in line with the will of God for the sanctity of our church. Amen! Rev. Karen Scott offered comfort, strength and peace through her prayer of condolence to Sister Roslyn Johnson Das as she mourns the loss of her father, Brother Arnett (Arnie) Johnson during Altar Call. Tomorrow, we will take up a special offering and be a blessing to those effected by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. The Adult Sunday School topic, “God Desires Accountability.” We will discuss how we can reconcile with God. We also invite you to join the “Hour of Power Noon Day
Prayer” conference call line and virtual Bible Study on Wednesdays. 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. As we get ready for Thanksgiving, let’s remember this special day is about gratitude and thankfulness. Jesus emphasized the importance of a grateful heart. Rejoice! It’s time to remember who we have to thank most of all.
Our sincere and heartfelt condolences are extended to the family of Brother Arnie Johnson and 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 everyone celebrating their special day this month. “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” Psalm 37:5
—Lexa M. Mingo
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
“I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.” —Psalm 9:1
While Thanksgiving isn’t a biblical holiday, Scripture consistently calls us to ongoing, heartfelt gratitude as a vital part of our worship. As followers of Jesus, we have countless reasons to give thanks—and this season naturally opens doors to speak about the One we’re most thankful for.
Jesus reminds us that “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34).If gratitude fills our hearts, thanksgiving should naturally shape our conversations. Psalm 9:1 shows us that thankfulness isn’t silent or passive—David doesn’t just feel grateful; he recounts God’s deeds. His praise is active, vocal, and intentional.
Likewise, Paul in 2 Corinthians 4:13–17 speaks of a faith that believes and therefore speaks, even in suffering. Why? Because grace is spreading. And as grace spreads, thanksgiving multiplies. And as thanksgiving multiplies, God is glorified.
This Thanksgiving, let’s move beyond polite expressions of gratitude into bold testimony. Let’s share stories of God’s faithfulness—not only around the dinner table, but in our communities, our churches, and our everyday conversations. Let our actions—kindness, generosity, and joy—serve as living reminders of the mercy we’ve received.
Many around us are hurting—some are weary, grieving, or discouraged. When our thanksgiving is rooted in grace, it becomes a beacon of hope. Not because our circumstances are perfect, but because our lives declare that God is present even in the brokenness.
As the holiday approaches, Scripture calls us into a deeper kind of gratitude: a gratitude that overflows, that speaks, and that shines through our actions. Jesus’ ministry was marked by generosity and service, so our thankfulness in Him should lead us to intentional acts of kindness—for neighbors, church fam-
ily, or even strangers.
God gives us His love and His Spirit to share, not to keep to ourselves. So, this Thanksgiving, let’s recount His deeds. Let’s speak hope. And let’s glorify God with our actions.
Have a blessed Thanksgiving Day!
Come and Receive a Blessing:All are Welcome!
Theme for 2025: “God’s Love in Action with Joy and Thanksgiving”
Grief Share will resume after the holidays.
Bible Study on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Via Zoom: 904-468-5745. Book: Esther
Thursdays: Pantry and in-person Prayer meeting will resume on December 4, at 11 a.m.
Upcoming Events – Save the Dates
Sunday, November 23: Escuela dominical at 10 a.m.
Bilingual Service, Thanksgiving Service & Celebrating our 51st Anniversary at 11:15 a.m. Bring a friend.
Please stay after the service for a hot meal of thanks.
—Grace Abadia
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 anonymous hotline by the following methods: Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services.com/ riverbaycorp to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Email: reports@lighthouse-services.com; or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the email or fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

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 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.
Acupuncture Session – Dec. 3 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Bartow office.
Caringkind: The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving Rep. will be in the Bartow main office every third Mon. of the month from 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.
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.
Trip: Holiday Train show at Grand Central Station
Mindful Mornings Tai-Chi, 9-10 a.m.
Line Dance, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Movies w/ Dennis: “Flight,” 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.
Trip: Lunch at The Grand Feast 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.
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
Alternate Kosher Meals are available
Weekend Recap Discussion, 9-10 a.m.
Stay Well Exercise w/Denise, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 2
Yoga Class w/Adira, 1:15-2:15 p.m., Rm. 2
Leisure TV, 2:15-4 p.m.
Trip: Lunch at The Grand Fest 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)
Arthritis Exercise w/ Damion, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Bead & Jewelry w/ Brenda, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Technology Class w/ Steve, 1:152:15 p.m.
Dreiser OAC, will be closing at 3 p.m.
Current Events, 10-11 a.m.
LUNCH: KOSHER: Baked Fish w/Garlic Sauce, Couscous w/ Peas & Lemon, Steamed Carrots; NON-KOSHER: BBQ Chicken Leg Quarters, Baked Mac & Cheese, Steamed Cabbage
DINNER: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: No Dinner Served
NON-KOSHER: No Dinner Served
LUNCH: Veggie Chicken Cacciatore, Spaghetti, Sauteed String Beans; NONKOSHER: Spanish Style Roast Pork, White Rice, California Blend Vegetables
DINNER: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: Tuna Fish Cakes, Spaghetti, Sauteed String Beans, Tangerines; NON-KOSHER: BBQ Chicken, Baked Macaroni & Cheese, Steamed Cabbage, Apple
LUNCH: KOSHER: (Plant Based) Eggplant Chick Pea,Tagine, Egg Barley, Vegetables Mix; NON-KOSHER: (Plant Based) No Cheese Spring Vegetable, Lasagna, Sauteed Green Beans w/Onions
DINNER: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: Dairy-Free Baked Beef Ziti, Capri Blend Vegetables, Apples; NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Roast Pork, White Rice, California Blend Vegetables, Orange
Cardio Exercise w/Gail, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A
Visual Arts w/Laura via Zoom, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Knitting/Crocheting w/Lynne & Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
JASA Closed for Thanksgiving Day
Card Games w/Frankie, 3:304:30 p.m.
Massage Therapy, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Salsa Dancing w/George, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
JASA Closed for Thanksgiving Day
Chit & Chat, 1-2 p.m. Fit for Life Exercise w/Gail, 1-2 p.m.
Coloring for Calmness, 9:30-10:30
Coloring for Calmness, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
a.m.
Su Casa Art w/Tijay, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Manicure, 10:30 a.m-12 p.m.
Massage Therapy, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Manicure,10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Line Dance with Cynthia, 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m.
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.
Blood Pressure Screening, 10:30 a.m.-12
Chess Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
p.m.
Health & Wellnes
Blood Pressure Screening, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Elder Abuse Presentation, Rm. 4, 12- 1 p.m. Lunch & Learn: Life Insurance, 12 p.m.-1 p.m.
JASA Closed for Thanksgiving Day
Body in Motion w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Leisure games w/Clara, 1-3:30 p.m., Rm. 2
Walmart (Monroe, NY), 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Coney Island Beach/Boardwalk, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
LUNCH: KOSHER: Ginger & Lime Salmon, Baked Sweet Potato, Prince Edward Blend Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Baked Asian Style, Honey Chicken, White Rice & Quinoa Steamed Broccoli
JASA Closed for Thanksgiving Day
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
Drama Club w/Dazee Windley, 2-4:30 p.m., Bartow OAC, Rm. 31
2 p.m.-4:30 p.m., in Bartow OAC, Rm. 31
Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Intergenerational Arts & Crafts w/Denise, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Salsa with Rasheem,10 a.m.11 a.m., Dreiser, 2nd floor Word Games, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Bingo on Saturdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the back of JASA NORC Of ce
Wellness 2.0: Alzheimer’s Awareness, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1-2 p.m.
Health & Wellness 2.0 – Celebrating Each Other, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.
Sewing Class w/Joy, 9-11 a.m., Rm. 2
Knitting & Crocheting w/Loretta , 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Knitting /Crocheting w/Loretta 10-12 p.m.
JASA Closed for Thanksgiving JASA Closed for Thanksgiving
LUNCH : KOSHER: Morocaan Eggplant & Chickpea Stew, Egg Barley, Vegetables, Peach; NON-KOSHER: Fish w Tomatoes & Herbs, Caribbean Rice & Red Beans
DINNER: BARTOW ONLY
Line Dance w/Sassy , 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Bingo w/Gay , 1-2:50 p.m., Rm. 2
Alert & Alive w/Cathy & Essie, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 4
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: Moroccan Eggplant & Chickpea Stew, Egg Barley, Vegetables, Peach; NONKOSHER: Baked Fish w/Mushroom & Peppers, Cous Cous Cauliflower w/Carrots & Parsley, Banana
Saturday: Lunch served at 12:30 p.m. until finished: BARTOW ONLY
KOSHER: Salmon in Lime & Ginger Sauce, Perfect White Rice, Spiced Mixed Vegetable, Apple PLUS 10 GRAB AND GO; NONKOSHER: Caesar Salad w/Chicken, Basic Pasta Salad, Cabbage Carrot Slaw, Plum
Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and The Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow at 8 a.m., in-person only, and at 11 a.m., in-person and on Zoom or YouTube. Sunday School classes for all ages will be held at 9:30 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 50 (lower level), Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone: 718-320-3774. Email: ccbc135@ optimum.net or coopcitybc@gmail.com. Website: www.compcitybaptistchurch.org. Masks are optional.
Zoom information: https://us04web.zoom. us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line 646-568-7788, Meeting ID: 962 343 0102#, Password 788175#. Or go to YouTube, search for Co-op City Baptist Church and watch us there. The church’s free conference call line dial-in number is 857-357-0254, Access Code is 6600650#. Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, there will be no
Happy Thanksgiving, Building 8!
Bible Study classes and prayer services this week. They will all resume the following week.
The Scholarship Ministry will be cruising to Alaska on the beautiful Holland America Eurodam ship. They invite you to sail with them on July 18-25, 2026. The following prices include cost of cruise, airfare, taxes and transfers. Inside stateroom, $3,235; Oceanview stateroom, $3,533; Balcony stateroom, $4,171. All prices are per person double occupancy. Please Note: A deposit of $400 per person for double occupancy or $800 for single occupancy may be made until Sunday, November 30, 2025. Final payment is due by March 29, 2026. When making your deposit, please contact Hermena Smith at 646-780-9813. She will take your credit card information and make your reservation immediately. You may also pay for travel insurance at the same time (travel protection is highly recommended). If paying by check, or for
The Building 8 Association held its Executive Board meeting last week, where we discussed plans for the remainder of the year and continued our commitment to supporting and strengthening our community.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all cooperators who have attended our meetings thus far. Your strong participation shows just how many residents in our building care about preserving—and enhancing—the quality of life for themselves, their neighbors, and the wider Co-op City community. Your involvement truly makes a difference.
Season Reminders
As we enter this busy and festive season, we wish you and your loved ones a warm and joyful Thanksgiving. This is also a time when we ask everyone to remain mindful of a few important community considerations:
Stay aware of your surroundings. Please remain attentive to your personal safety and report anything unusual to Public Safety.
Be courteous to your neighbors. Many residents in our building are seniors or families with small children. As celebrations pick up, please be mindful of noise, especially during evening hours, so everyone can enjoy a peaceful holiday season.
Please remember to close building doors behind you, especially on windy days. Doors left ajar can lead to unauthorized individuals entering our building.
Holiday Collection & Building Association Dues
The Building 8 Association has begun collecting Building Association dues as well as our traditional holiday collection for our hardworking building porters. We sincerely thank all cooperators who have already contributed. If you haven’t had a chance yet, we will be offering several additional collection

further information, contact Sis. Claudette Cutlar Day, at 718-379-0541 or Sis. Brenda Robinson, at 718-671-1271. All future payments must be made by check or money order payable to Co-op City Baptist Church.
Our next food giveaway will be distributed on Friday, December 12, from 2-5 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop. Remember to bring a bag.
“GOD is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
We want to wish everyone a very Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving Holiday!
The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible Study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the Church through ministry.
Marilyn C. Williams
dates in the lobby:
11/17/2025: 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
11/18/2025: 4 p.m.-6 p.m.
11/20/2025: 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
11/23/2025: 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
12/2/2025: 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
12/4/2025: 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
12/8/2025: 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
12/10/2025: 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
Your contributions help us continue the long-standing tradition of showing appreciation to the staff who keep our building safe, clean, and well maintained.
Food Pantry Resources in the 10475 Area – If you or someone you know is in need of food assistance this season, please see our list of resources in our building lobby.
Stay Engaged in Community Meetings
We encourage cooperators to attend local meetings that directly impact the quality of life in Co-op City. Staying informed and involved ensures our voices are heard:
Riverbay Board Open Meetings: Schedule available on the Riverbay website and lobby bulletin boards.
Bronx Community Board 10 Meetings: https://www.nyc.gov/site/bronxcb10/index.page
NYPD 45th Precinct Community Council Meetings: https://www.nyc. gov/site/nypd/bureaus/patrol/precincts/45th-precinct.page
These meetings allow residents to learn about upcoming changes, raise concerns, and remain active participants in shaping our community’s future.
—Lisa Wade-Stewart
Every November, we recognize American Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about diabetes, a chronic condition that affects millions of Americans. Diabetes occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it properly, leading to high blood sugar levels. Over time, uncontrolled diabetes can cause serious health issues, including heart disease, vision loss, and kidney problems.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 38 million Americans have diabetes, and about 1 in 5 of them don’t even know they have it. In addition, 96 million adults have prediabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range. The good news? With awareness, lifestyle changes, and regular checkups, diabetes can often be managed and even prevented. There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells. It usually develops in childhood or adolescence, but adults can get it too. Type 2 Diabetes: The most common type, often linked to genetics, obesity, and inactivity. The body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after childbirth, though it raises the risk of type 2 diabetes later in life.
Prevention and Management: Type 1 diabetes can’t currently be prevent-
ed, but type 2 diabetes is largely avoidable through healthy habits. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and managing weight can dramatically lower risk. For those already diagnosed, regular monitoring of blood sugar, taking prescribed medication, and staying connected with healthcare providers are key to preventing complications.
The Importance of Awareness: American Diabetes Month is not just about statistics; it’s about action. Whether that means learning your blood sugar numbers, supporting a loved one with diabetes, or advocating for better healthcare access, every effort helps. Awareness saves lives by promoting early detection and empowering people to make informed health choices.
True or False? Eating too much sugar directly causes diabetes. False. While a high-sugar diet can lead to weight gain (a risk factor for type 2 diabetes), sugar alone doesn’t directly cause diabetes.Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age. True. Although it’s often diagnosed in youth, adults can also develop type 1 diabetes. People with diabetes should avoid all carbohydrates. False. Carbohydrates are essential for energy. The key is choosing complex carbs and managing portions.Prediabetes always leads to diabetes. False. With lifestyle changes, prediabetes can be reversed or managed to prevent progression. Regular exercise helps control blood sugar levels. True. Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps maintain healthy glucose levels.
A call to action: Take a moment to learn, test, and take charge of your health, because awareness today can mean a healthier tomorrow.
—Diane Cooper
The Co-op City Times is YOUR community newspaper! So, if you have news you’d like to share with your neighbors, LET US KNOW! Please give us a call at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375/6; email: cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com or fax (718) 320-2595.


































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