Co-op City Times 02-14-26

Completed Window Guard Form Due Feb. 15

By now, shareholders should have received the annual Window Guard form and Fire Safety Notices in the mail. Units that have not yet received the mailing should contact their respective CSO.

The annual Window Guard form must be completed following the directions included in the mailing, and can be completed and returned online, by phone, fax or mail. The deadline to return the completed form is Sunday, February 15, 2026. Please read the instructions provided with the notice carefully. Each unit is assigned a unique code which is required when completing the form electronically.

2025 Income Affidavit Notice

The annual income affidavit process for calendar year 2025 will commence in March 2026. Shareholders will once again have the opportunity to submit their income affidavits electronically or through the traditional paper form.

Shareholders will have access to the electronic income affidavits and receive copies of the paper forms in March.

All cooperators, excluding new residents who moved into Co-op City after March 31, 2026, and Section 8 recipients, are required to complete the income affidavit.

The income affidavit process will require shareholders to submit supporting documentation, including a list of all members of the household, and their income as reported on line 19 of their NY State tax return.

Below are some important reminders about the filing process: Digital Income Affidavit Submission

Shareholders have the option to file their 2025 Income Affidavits electronically.

In 2025, Riverbay experienced a computer incident that affected the digital income affidavit process. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience that this caused. Since then, Riverbay has made significant improvements to the process. All shareholders are encouraged to utilize this secure and efficient filing option.

Shareholders that are looking to file electronically can also familiarize themselves with the process by watching an instructional “How To” video on the Riverbay website at https://bit.ly/4aw5CeP or by scanning the QR Code here.

Shareholders will be able to upload supporting documents such as insurance forms and tax returns where needed. An email confirmation will also be sent to the shareholder when the form has been processed. Manual Income Affidavit Submission

The paper version of the 2025 Income Affidavit will be mailed to all shareholders.

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The city’s Window Guard law was enacted to help prevent incidences of young children being injured or killed in falls from unguarded windows. It requires owners or managers of multiple dwellings (buildings with 3 or more apartments) to provide and properly install or repair approved window guards on all windows in apartments where a child(ren) 10 years or younger resides or visits, although anyone, for whatever reason,

Parking Regulations

Shareholders are reminded that garage licenses are issued to the approved licensee only and may not be assigned, transferred, or used by any other individual without prior written consent. Unauthorized use of a garage space is strictly prohibited.

During the recent winter storm, several vehicles were observed parked out of compliance. We understand that there may be an influx of vehicles in the garages during winter storms and inclement weather, however, proper parking protocols must still be followed to ensure the safety and accessibility of all shareholders.

Vehicles must be parked fully within the assigned space lines and may not block adjacent spaces, drive lanes, pedestrian walkways, fire exits, or access areas. Parking in another shareholder’s space, double-parking, or storing personal items outside designated areas is not permitted.

Vehicles must be properly registered, insured, and operational. Abandoned or inoperable vehicles are prohibited.

Routine inspections are conducted to ensure safety and compliance. CCPD will issue fines for violations, and continued non-compliance may result in towing or revocation of garage privileges.

We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining safe and orderly garage facilities.

—Riverbay Management

Shareholders opting to file a paper income affidavit should carefully follow the instructions on the form. The income affidavit must be properly signed, notarized and submitted by the deadline date. Copies of all insurance documentation must also be submitted along with the annual income affidavit.

Reassessment of Income

Shareholders should also be aware that if they are assessed an income-based surcharge, the surcharge period will begin in July 2026 and end in June of 2027.

During or after the income affidavit process, shareholders can request for their income to be reassessed for a reduction or removal of surcharges ONLY if the following circumstances occur:

• A tenant or household member is placed on public assistance

• A full-time employed household member permanently leaves the apartment

• A death or retirement of a household member who had income

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The Riverbay administrative offices will be closed on Monday, February 16, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Because of the holiday-shortened work week, all material, including directors’ viewpoints, submitted for publication in the upcoming Saturday, February 21th issue of the Co-op City Times, must be submitted before 9 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17. Material received after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17, will be accommodated as space allows in the Saturday, Feb. 21th issue of the Co-op City Times

Submissions should be emailed to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

We wish our readers a memorable and safe Presidents’ Day.

• Unemployment of a household member for at least three months

Shareholders must present documentation to support the reassessment request. Requests should be made in a timely manner after the shareholder is assessed the surcharge. In instances other than failure, neglect, or refusal to cooperate in income determination, cooperators requesting a reduction or credit for surcharges assessed due to errors or mistakes reported on income affidavits, must submit their request in writing immediately to the management office upon being assessed for a surcharge to have income recalculated or reexamined.

The request should include written documentation to support the correct household income and an amended income affidavit. Requests will not be granted beyond the first 6 months after the first billed surcharge received.

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may request window guards, even if there are no young children in the apartment.

“The window guard form is required by law to be completed annually in all high-rise apartment buildings,” said CSO Director Vanessa Aldea. “Even if the information from the previous year did not change, a form still has to be submitted. This is not only for shareholders with children; it is required for all shareholders to complete.”

According to the law, residents are obligated to respond fully to all questions on the annual notice informing Management if children 10 years or younger reside in the apartment. They must also allow Management access into their apartment to install window guards on all windows in the apartment and they must not remove the window guards once they are installed or make any changes to the window guards.

The Window Guard form asks if a child five years or younger lives or visits the apartment regularly; if a child 10 years or younger lives in the apartment and if so, are window guards installed, need to be installed or repaired; and thirdly, even if no child 10 years or younger lives in the unit, would the occupant like window guards installed or, if they are already installed, are repairs needed. The form then asks for the shareholder’s name, full address, signature, date and contact phone number.

Shareholders must answer only the questions on the Window Guard form that pertain to their respective unit, and sign and date the form as well as provide their contact phone number in case follow-up is necessary. Failure to complete the form fully and accurately will result in automated reminder phone

WHISTLEBLOWER ANONYMOUS HOTLINE

Retain proof of request until the matter is resolved.

Shareholders are also reminded that failure to submit their income affidavits on time will result in a 50% surcharge of their basic carrying charges. The shareholder will then have to pay the surcharge for each month until it is finally filed. In no event will credit be given for excess surcharges already assessed as a result of failure, neglect or refusal of the cooperator to file the Income Affidavit on a timely basis. Credit will not be given for late submission of income affidavits. More information and reminders about the process will be provided in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to the Riverbay website, coopcity.com; the Riverbay Crawler (channel 12 for MATV subscribers and channel 591 for Altice/ Optimum subscribers) and the Co-op City Times

calls in an attempt to collect the missing information and/or even a door-todoor visit in the future. After all avenues have been exhausted, the names of those who do not respond to the notice will be forwarded to the New York City Department of Health for further action.

The Riverbay Cooperator Services Office (CSO) reports that response rate from shareholders has been exceptionally low.

In addition, forms may also be deposited into the Window Guard drop boxes at the Dreiser CSO on the lower level plaza. This drop box is available 24/7, as is the drop box located outside of CCPD headquarters in the Bartow Center. The drop box at the Einstein CSO is accessible during business hours, Monday—Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Shareholders who need assistance completing the form may contact their respective CSO by dialing (718) 320-3300, select option 4, and follow the prompts. You must have the unique code on your Window Guard mailing available to complete the form.

Shareholders who reside in townhouses do not receive the annual mailing, however, those who would like window guards installed may contact their respective CSO.

The annual mailing also includes the Annual Fire Safety Notice which reminds shareholders of the steps to take if a fire breaks out in their apartment, and what to do if there is a fire outside their apartment in a multi-dwelling building. Shareholders are advised to familiarize themselves with the Fire Notice affixed to the back of their apartment door.

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 1-833290-0009 (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).

Stay connected, Co-op City!

Be sure to check the Riverbay Crawler daily (ch. 12 on MATV, and ch. 591 on Altice) for updates and information.

Shareholders who are not signed up for Phone Tree alerts are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Phone Tree alerts provide important notifications relative to the Co-op City community. The application to sign up for Phone Tree alerts can be found on the Resources page under “CSO” on the website, coopcity.com.

Seniors who would like to sign up with CCPD’s RUOK program for a daily telecheck can use the application on the CCPD page on the website.

In addition to reading the Co-op City Times, follow us on X, Instagram. Threads and BlueSky. Our handle is @coopcitytimes. Also follow CCPD on X, @CCPDnyc.

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Coffee with Mike

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto invites shareholders to join him at the Section 5 pizza shop on Saturday, February 21, 9:30-10:30 a.m., for the next “Coffee with Mike.” This is an opportunity for shareholders to meet with the Assemblyman and discuss pertinent matters of concern. All are invited.

Follow Community Relations on Facebook

Want to know what’s happening around Co-op City? Be sure to follow Riverbay Corporation’s Community Relations on Facebook. Scan the QR code to keep up with all the latest events happening around the community!

Black History Month Movies

Riverbay Community Relations department presents the following movies in celebration of Black History Month: Feb. 20, Einstein Center, Rm. 45 – The Great Debaters, 5 p.m. Feb. 28, Bartow Center, Rm. 31 – Black Panther, 1 p.m.; Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, 3 p.m.; The Temptations, 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, email community@riverbaycorp.com.

Be An Engaged Shareholder

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

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

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City took a first step toward delivering universal childcare for families this month after announcing a request for information (RFI) for 2K and 3K providers on February 5.

This announcement marks the first time the city will invite providers citywide to join 2K programs and the first time in a half-decade that the city is seeking additional providers for 3K programming. Starting next fall, the city will implement the first phase of 2K programming with the initial rollout focusing on “high-need areas,” Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s Office said on January 8. Ultimately, the city plans to expand 2K programming to all interested families by 2029.

Existing 3K providers will have the chance to expand their offerings or add 2K programming by responding to a survey the city released in tandem with their RFI. RFI submissions will close on February 19.

During a press conference, Mayor Mamdani explained the importance of expanding childcare options for New York City families. “The cost of childcare is pushing New Yorkers out of the city they call home—forcing parents to give up careers they fought for and to make impossible choices about whether they can afford to grow their families at all,” said Mayor Mamdani. “That’s not an accident, it’s a policy failure. And it’s why this administration is moving

2nd Front Page

NYC Launches 2K and 3K Request For Information

with urgency to deliver universal childcare.”

On January 8, Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Mamdani delivered a joint announcement about the new 2K program coming this fall, called 2-Care. For the next two years, the state will fully fund 2-Care as part of Mayor Mamdani’s four-year implementation plan. In tandem with the implementation of the 2-Care program, Governor Hochul’s administration will also provide support to strengthen the city’s current 3K program and help it reach a level of universal access for all eligible New York City children.

In a related note, there are two deadlines coming up that parents should keep in mind. Families have until Friday, February 27, to submit their child’s 3K or Pre-K application. New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) will release Pre-K offers on Tuesday, May 12, and 3K offers one week later on Tuesday, May 19.

To apply, parents can go online to MySchools.nyc, call 718-935-2009or visit a Family Welcome Center. Family Welcome Centers are important resources that help families with the admissions and enrollment process. For Co-op City shareholders and parents, the Family Welcome Center in the Bronx that deals with Co-op City’s school district, District 11, is located at 1230 Zerega Avenue, Room 24, Bronx, NY 10462. The Family Welcome Center serving District 11 can also be reached via email at: ZeregaFWC@ schools.nyc.gov.

The 2026 NYC School Survey Is Officially Live

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City Public School (NYCPS) families can have their voice heard by filling out the 2026 NYC School Survey. Families, teachers and staff of students in grades 3K through 12 have one version of the survey and students in grades 6 through 12 have another. NYC School Surveys give parents, students, staff and teachers an opportunity to provide feedback on their experience, informing NYCPS of areas that need improvement. Survey data is also used among other metrics to determine the quality of each individual school. The deadline to submit the 2026 NYC School Survey is April 1.

To fill out the 2026 NYC School Survey, visit tinyurl. com/5syjkbcv and click on the appropriate option for students, families, teachers and staff members. Students will need their nine-digit identification number, and parents can find their child’s student identification number on their report card or student ID. Families of students in early childhood programs will have a code provided by their child’s respective program. Teachers and staff members should contact their school’s coordinator for their unique anonymous access code.

Looking at the most recent available data collected from the 2025 NYC Schools Surveys, below is a rundown on how the schools within Co-op City performed. Percent favorable refers to the percentage of respondents who chose one of the positive options for a particular question:

1. P.S. 153 Helen Keller School

• Teacher Survey – Ninety-eight percent of respondents felt the school was doing a quality job with outreach to parents, 91% said they felt the school fostered an inclusive learning environment, 89% said they felt the school acts as a safe space for learning, and 87% said the school facilities were satisfactory. On the flipside, only 23% of respondents felt the school did enough to prevent bullying, 31% felt that teachers have the opportunity to provide feedback and influence school decisions, and 41% said they felt classroom behavior was conducive for a learning environment.

• Parent Survey – One hundred percent of respondents said the school did a quality job of supporting families with making school or program decisions for their child’s upcoming academic year, 100% said the school properly supports parents with teaching their children outside the classroom, 100% said the school does a great job with helping students transition into the school year and 97% said they trusted their child’s teacher and felt included in their child’s education. The two lowest results were still solid as 87% of respondents felt favorably about school facilities and services and 81% of respondents felt the school does enough to support students with individual-

ized education programs (IEP).

2. P.S. 160 Walt Disney School

• Teacher Survey – One hundred percent of respondents felt the school was doing a quality job with outreach to parents, 100% said they felt the school fostered an inclusive learning environment and 98% said they felt the school acts as a safe space for learning. As for the lowest favorability percentages, only 52% felt that the school was doing enough to prevent bullying, 56% felt that teachers have the opportunity to provide feedback and influence school decisions and 71% said they felt classroom behavior was conducive for a learning environment.

• Parent Survey – Ninety-four percent of parent respondents said they trusted their child’s teacher and felt included in their child’s education, 93% felt the school does a great job with parent outreach efforts, 93% felt the school involves parents in their child’s education and 92% felt satisfied with their child’s education. As for the lowest favorable responses, 60% of parent respondents felt the school did enough to support parents with making decisions for their child’s upcoming school year, 72% felt satisfied with the school’s ability to support IEPs and 86% felt satisfied with the school’s facilities and services.

3. P.S. 178 Dr. Selman Waksman School

• Teacher Survey – Ninety-one percent of respondents said they felt the school acts as a safe space for learning, 87% said they felt the school fostered an inclusive learning environment and 86% felt the school was doing a quality job with parent outreach. For the lowest favorability percentages, only 37% felt that teachers have the opportunity to provide feedback and influence school decisions, 55% felt that teachers are committed to improving the quality of the school, and 57% felt the school did enough to prevent bullying.

• Parent Survey – One hundred percent of respondents said the school properly supports parents with teaching their children outside the classroom, 100% said the school does a great job with helping students transition into the school year, 98% said they trusted their child’s teacher and felt included in their child’s education and 97% felt favorably about how the school’s leadership collaborates with parents. For the lowest result, 73% of respondents felt the school did a quality job of supporting families with making school or program decisions for their child’s upcoming academic year.

4. M.S. 180 Dr. Daniel Hale Williams School

• Student Survey – Eighty-five percent of student respondents said the school actively fosters an environment where they feel included in school decisions, 76% said they felt the school acts as a

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Survey ––––– (Continued from page 3)

safe space for learning and 74% of respondents felt favorable about how their teachers build trust and support students. On the lower end of favorability, only 35% felt the school did enough to prevent bullying and 48% felt students treat each other with respect and 53% were satisfied with the school’s facilities and services.

• Teacher Survey – Ninety-seven percent said the school handles parent outreach well, 90% of respondents said they felt the school fostered an inclusive learning environment, and 84% of respondents felt satisfied with the school’s facilities and services. For the lowest favorable responses, only 25% felt the school did enough to prevent bullying, 53% felt student classroom behavior was conducive for learning and 58% felt that teachers have the opportunity to provide feedback and influence school decisions.

• Parent Survey – Ninety-three percent felt favorably about how the school’s leadership collaborates with parents, 92% said they trusted their child’s teacher and felt included in their child’s education, 91% of respondents felt the school properly supported their child’s IEP, and 88% felt satisfied with their child’s education and academic progress. The lowest favorable responses were still in the high 80s with 86% saying the school’s facilities and services were satisfactory and 87% of respondents saying the school did a quality job of empowering and including parents in their child’s education.

5.

I.S. 181 Pablo Casals Middle School

• Student Survey – Ninety-one percent of student respondents said the school actively fosters an environment where they feel included in school decisions, 90% said they felt the school acts as a safe space for learning and 83% of respondents felt favorable about how their teachers build trust and support students. On the lower end of favorability, only 56% felt the school did enough to prevent bullying and 62% felt the school facilities and services were satisfactory.

• Teacher Survey – Ninety-eight percent of respondents said they felt the school fostered an inclusive learning environment, 97% said the school handles parent outreach well and 93% of respondents felt the school had a clear and unified approach to delivering their curriculums. For the lowest favorable responses, only 45% felt the school did enough to prevent bullying and 52% felt that teachers have the opportunity to provide feedback and influence school decisions.

• Parent Survey – Ninety-seven percent said they trusted their child’s teacher and felt included in their child’s education, 97% felt favorably about how the school’s leadership collaborates with parents and 96% felt satisfied with their child’s education and academic progress. The lowest favorable responses were still high as 87% felt the school’s facilities and services were satisfactory and 88% of respondents felt the school did a quality job of empowering and including parents in their child’s education.

Parents can view survey results from previous years by visiting tinyurl.com/yhd4j39v.

Deepest Condolences

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Mr. Mark Allen on the morning of February 10, 2026 at the age of 60. Mr. Allen was a former Riverbay employee and served as a garage supervisor.

Mr. Allen proudly called Co-op City his home for 52 years.

The family of the late Mr. Mark Allen asks for your prayers and support as they prepare for his Homegoing celebration.

Services will be on Saturday, February 21, at McCall’s Funeral Home, 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, NY 10466. Viewing is at 9 a.m. and funeral at 10 a.m. sharp.

Repast will be 1-5 p.m. at Auditorium A, Dreiser Center, 177 Dreiser Loop.

Please keep Mr. Allen’s family in your prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

“Trash It, Don’t Flush It”

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

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

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

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

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

What To Throw in The Trash

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

Grease – Pouring fat, oil, or grease down your kitchen sink can clog your

household pipes or sewers completely. Grease is also one of the main components in a fatberg. When you’re done cooking, let the oil cool down and then pour it into a can or bottle with a lid, place it into a labeled plastic bag and place it under the compactor room shelf.

Wet Wipes – Wipes are another main component of fatbergs. The DEP says that the increase in the sale of wipes over the last several years correlates with an increasing number of blockages, damage to equipment, landfill trips and flooding. Toilet paper is manufactured in a way that allows it to break down almost immediately in the sewer system. Wipes, even those labeled as flushable, are much stronger and do not break down. All wipes, even “flushable” wipes should be thrown in the trash. Paper towels should also never be flushed down the toilet.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NYC Mayor Announces Applications Now Open for 2026 Summer Youth Employment

Applications for NYC’s Summer Youth Employment (SYEP) are now open at nyc.gov/SYEP.

“Don’t get caught sleeping,” Mayor Mamdani advised NYC youth between the ages of 14-24. “This program, also known as SYEP, connects young New Yorkers with employers so that you get a paid job, real experience, and helps you kickstart your professional career.”

SYEP is the nation’s largest summer youth employment initiative, providing thousands of young New Yorkers with up to six weeks of entry-level experience at worksites throughout the five boroughs. Participants are selected through a lottery for the program.

In 2025, the program provided 100,000 youths with paid opportunities to explore potential career interests and pathways, allowing participants to engage in learning experiences that help develop their professional, social, civic, and leadership skills.

Through SYEP, teens ages 14 and 15 learn about career opportunities and make a difference in their communities through paid project-based activities. Participants in this program are required to commit to 12.5 hours per week for a duration of six weeks and can earn up to $700.

For New Yorkers ages 16 to 24, the program provides them with opportunities to explore career pathways through paid summer jobs in a variety of industries throughout New York City. Participants are assigned to work 25 hours per week for six weeks and will get paid $17 per hour.

Applications can be completed online at nyc.gov/SYEP or at a participating community-based organization during the application period. The application deadline is February 27, 2026. For more information, New Yorkers can call 311 or DYCD at 1-800-246-4646.

Package Thefts in Co-op City Buildings

Online shopping has made package theft a national issue, and Co-op City is no exception. To keep your deliveries safe:

• Request packages to be delivered with a signature or require ID verification.

• Use secure options like Amazon lockers or UPS drop boxes.

• Coordinate deliveries for times when someone will be home or ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye out.

CCPD advises that minimizing the time packages spend unattended in hallways is key.

We Welcome Your Photos!

If you attended a community event, or see news happening around the community, we welcome your photo submissions.

To ensure that your images print at a high quality, please adhere to the following guidelines for submitting photos:

• Your digital camera or cell phone camera should be set to the highest possible resolution The higher the resolution, the better the image quality.

• Fuzzy, dark or blurry images will be difficult to sharpen, so please make sure all images submitted are clear and brightly lit.

• Photocopies are not accepted.

• Email photos to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com as attachments, not within the body of the email.

• Printed glossy photos are also accepted. Photos can be dropped off/mailed to our office at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Room 21. Photos will be returned, if requested.

STAR Program Eligibility

The STAR program is available to all Co-op City shareholders. The program offers two types of benefits, Basic and Enhanced STAR. The deadline to apply is March 1, 2026.

Basic Star:

• No Age Requirement

• Annual Household income of $500,000 or less

• Co-op City Residency

Enhanced Star:

• Age 65 or older

• Annual Household Income of $110,70

• Co-op City Residency

Shareholders can scan the QR code to visit the state’s Homeowner Benefit Portal to apply .

State Reminds Families of Expanded Child Credit Tax

By Brandon Ortiz

New York continues to remind families of the expanded child tax credit with the tax season on the horizon.

Called the Empire State Child Credit (ESCC), eligible families filing for the 2025 Tax Year are now able to receive a maximum of $1000 per child under four years old and $330 per child from four through 16 years old. During the 2027 tax filing season, the credit per child from four through 16 years old will increase to $500. To be eligible for the full ESCC, married couples filing jointly have to be under a household income of $110,000, single or head of household filers need to be under $75,000 and married filing separate individuals have a cap of $55,000. Parents should keep in mind that they must provide either a valid Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) for themselves and for each child listed on their Form IT-213, which is filed alongside their New York State income tax return.

New York also removed a prior provision “that restricted New York’s poorest families from accessing the full credit, also known as the minimum income requirement or credit phase-in, so that these families can now access the full value of the credit as a refund,” as explained by Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office. Households with incomes below $4,000 and who do not owe taxes, are eligible for the maximum ESCC by filing their New

York State income tax return, as pointed out by Governor Hochul’s team.

Additionally, New York also made adjustments to how credit phase-out works, meaning more middle-class families can receive the ESCC going forward. Joint filing households earning up to $110,000 still qualify for the full credit. But the key change going forward according to the Governor’s Office will be for families above the income thresholds. For those families “the credit amount is reduced by $16.50 for every $1000” that a filer’s federal adjusted gross income is over the threshold. For example, the Governor’s Office said that a family of four with one child under four years old and another between four and 16 with a household income of $170,000 is now eligible to receive over $500 per year.

“The Empire State Child Credit delivers a vital financial boost to New York families,” said Governor Hochul. “Now, after the largest expansion of the credit in New York history, more New Yorkers have access to the credit than ever, which will put money directly in families’ pockets and help make our state more affordable for millions of recipients.”

With the expanded ESCC and adjustments to eligibility, New York estimates that the average family will receive roughly double the amount in child tax credit, specifically going from an average of $472 to $943.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 9 & Defoe Place Townhouses

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 9 A&B

100 & 120 Dreiser Loop & Defoe Place Townhouses

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.

Coyote Sightings

Due to the increase in coyote sightings, CCPD advises shareholders to:

• Report wolf or large wild canid sightings immediately to 311 (or 212639-9675) to request Urban Park Rangers.

• For emergencies, call 911.

• You can also report wildlife sightings online via WildlifeNYC at https://www.nyc.gov/site/wildlife nyc/things-to-do/report-a-sighting. page for potential investigation.

The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) advises that people and coyotes can usually coexist if coyotes’ natural fear of people is maintained. However, some coyotes in suburbia become emboldened and appear to have lost their fear of people which can result in a dangerous situation with pets and young children at the greatest risk.

The DEC offers the following tips on handling coyote encounters:

Do not approach a coyote or let children or pets approach a coyote.

• If you see a coyote, be aggressive in your behavior – stand tall and hold arms out to look large. If a coyote lingers for too long, then make loud noises, wave your arms, or throw sticks and stones.

• Contact your local police department and DEC regional office for assistance if you notice that coyotes are exhibiting “bold” behaviors and have little or no fear of people.

• The DEC’s Region 2 office, which serves the Bronx, is located in Long Island City; Wildlife program: (718) 482-4922, or email: wildlife.region2@ dec.ny.gov.

• Teach children to appreciate coyotes from a distance. Children are at greatest risk of being injured by coyotes. If a coyote has been observed repeatedly near an area where children frequent, be watchful.

Alert: Graffiti vandalism

If you witness anyone tagging or spraying graffiti on Co-op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at 718-671-3050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety.

Resourcesfor Veterans

FOODASSISTANCE

FreeMealsforAllNewYorkers

Public Safety Blotter

February 1 , 2026 – February 2, 2026

February 02, 2026

100 Bellamy Loop – CCPD responded to a large group loitering on the stairwell. Two cooperators were issued Community Complaints for loitering, one non-resident was issued a Criminal Court Summons for trespassing, and one Juvenile cooperator was arrested for disorderly conduct with a Juvenile Report prepared.

February 03, 2026

900 Baychester Avenue – A Riverbay sub-contractor reported that an unknown suspect entered a locked apartment that he was working in and removed his work tools without his permission.

February 06, 2026

99 Darrow Place – A cooperator reported returning to her parked vehicle inside Garage 1 and observing three tires slashed and the

rear license plate bent. NYPD to be notified by the cooperator for report purposes.

Front of 140 Darrow Place –An Amazon delivery driver left his vehicle running while making a delivery. Upon his return, his vehicle was missing.

149 Dreiser Loop – A cooperator was placed under arrest by NYPD for assaulting a Capri Pizza employee, causing bodily injuries to the employee. A Community Complaint was issued to the cooperator for Anti-Social Behavior.

February 07, 2026

Lobby of 140 Elgar Place – A cooperator was placed under arrest by CCPD for Disorderly Conduct. Upon arresting the cooperator, two CCPD officers suffered minor injuries and were transported to Jacobi Hospital for treatment of their injuries.

Responsible Use of eScooters

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

Learnmoreatnyc.gov/vetcheck

Findlocationsthatofferfreefood(foodpantriesand soupkitchens).

NYCNeighborhoodFoodResourceGuides

FINANCIALASSISTANCE

VeteransofForeignWars

NYCHumanResourcesAdministration'sNYCCash

Assistanceprogram |(718)557-1399

PENFEDFoundation |(800)558-9224

OperationHomefront |(877)264-3968

HOUSINGASSISTANCE

UnitedStatesInteragencyCouncilonHomelessness:EvictionPrevention

VAHomelessPrograms:Evictionprevention

ElksEmergencyAssistanceFundArrearsassistance | (773)755-4736

Mortgageassistance

VAHEALTHCARENEEDS

ApplyforVAHealthcare

CRISISSUPPORT

NYC988 |Dial988

NewYorkCity'sfree,confidentialsupport,crisisintervention,and informationandreferralserviceisavailable24/7.

VeteranCrisisLine |Dial988;thenpress1

Afree,confidentialresourcethat'savailabletoanyone,evenifyou'renot registeredwithVAorenrolledinVAhealthcare.

NYCVETERANS @ 1CentreSt,Suite2208 NewYork,NY10007 212-416-5250|nyc.gov/vets

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.

Director’s Viewpoint Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

How to Solve the Cooling Season Convector Problem

Ignore the mountains of snow because it’s time to make a decision regarding our leaky summertime convectors.

Leaky convector season with its chronic convector flooding – sometimes requiring asbestos abatement and floor replacement – will be here before we know it.

None of our 63,000+ convectors are getting any younger. Luckily, we have the money (from the last mortgage refinance) specifically earmarked to address cooling season convector leakage and the mitigation thereof.

Every part of our convector system is especially vulnerable in the summer. Burst coils and failed expansion joints are extremely costly, unpredictable, and, luckily, relatively rare. That makes the system’s Achilles’ Heel, as well as the community’s number one convector leakage problem, drainpipe blockage leading to condensate spillage. That is something we can do something about, and now is the time to figure out what that something should be.

There are two ways to address our longstanding condensate overflow trouble: buy shiny new ones or come up with a way to get the old ones to stop leaking.

Both options have been discussed for a very long time.

The replacement option options were painstakingly considered and whittled down to picking one model to undergo a long test run. The installation of all 32 apartments’ living room convectors in a top to bottom Tower line was completed in the summer of 2024. All but one has been lived with and all have been monitored ever since.

After a no-leaks summer-season-and-a-half, the pilot program’s report card earned high customer satisfaction scores.

But the pilot program tested more than the convectors themselves. It tested the feasibility of replacing just one convector per apartment; only the living room convector, and not the kitchen or bedroom units.

Since the millions of dollars set aside for the project could only cover the cost of 15,000+ units,

not 63,000+ units, or roughly a quarter of the total number of our aging, junkyard-ready convectors, the living room upgrade was chosen, and chosen for good reason.

The living room area is not self-contained. Living rooms are not like the bedrooms with their doors and door sills and the kitchens with their water-damage-resistant flooring in addition to the sill or saddle separating them from the rest of the apartment. When a living room is flooded, it can take the alcove and hallway out with it. That combined damage is the costliest to repair in terms of time and money –lost time for the cooperator and spent money from us all.

Nevertheless, that living room choice has been a source of confusion and controversy for some cooperators.

What happens to the leftovers? Would they be disconnected from the convector system altogether? Would the sole convector need to be cold enough to bring relief to the other rooms while freezing the couch-sitters?

No. The other convectors would remain as they are. The one new convector is not expected to cool (or heat) an entire apartment. The living room units would be set to your individual comfort level, and the other units would be dealt with as usual, by adjusting the fan.

The theory was that the larger-sized, brand new living room convector, in addition to providing half a century’s worth of updated features, would remove a lion’s share of humidity from the entire apartment. That could possibly influence the need to constantly fiddle with the other rooms’ convector fan switches in the summertime. Lowered humidity on a hot day equals a more comfortable environment.

There’s a general misconception about our current convectors and about how we adjust them. Except for a week or so when the Power Plant transitions from the cooling to the heating season and back again, if you’re hot or cold, no matter the season, you probably say you’re turning the convector on or off.

What you’re doing is no such thing.

The switch just adjusts the unit’s fan. If cold wa-

ter is passing through the unit, cold water continues to pass through it. Likewise for heated water.

When you turn off or adjust the fan, that heated or chilled water keeps on chugging. Without any help from the fan, the air in your apartment continues to waft through the convector. It does it naturally without any extra effort from the fan pulling in the air to be heated or cooled by passing by the coils.

The Aria convectors that were installed in Building 14 are worlds apart from the old ones, and not just in comparing their birthdates.

For one thing, no more fan fiddling is required. The Arias have fans that not only modulate and stop automatically when the set temperature is reached but the water supply shut-off valves activate too. No more hot air going out the window on a warm winter day.

In the summer, when the temperature that you set is surpassed, the convector stops both the fan and the flow, until the thermostat determines it’s time to readjust.

But not in the winter. Ours would have a freeze protection feature. If the sensors detect freezing temperatures, the fan stops but the water supply continues flowing to prevent coil damage.

The unit will come with a standard two plugs per plate electrical outlet.

And that’s Option One.

Exploring the water sensor option was presented to the Board last year by resolution and defeated once, reworded, re-presented, and defeated a second time.

No feasibility study was officially conducted but that doesn’t mean moisture sensor options weren’t explored. But that’s a story for next week.

This week is all about the Arias. There’s a briefing this Tuesday and a visit on Friday with a few of the cooperators who have lived with the units for the past seventeen months.

But fear not, both options (or a combination of the two) will be thoroughly discussed before the February 26 vote.

Happy Holidays, everyone (especially the HeartShaped on.); MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718219-2211.

FEBRUARY 2026 | FREE

Riverbay’s Succession Rights Summarized for Clarity

Riverbay Corporation has summarized New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal’s (DHCR) rules and regulations on succession rights to avoid misinterpretation.

DHCR has specific rules governing the transfer or assumption of ownership of apartments within Mitchell-Lama developments, which are spelled out in 9NYCRR Part 1727-8.1.

The Succession Rights Policy is intended to help a cooperator be aware of the protection provided to a family member or a ‘life companion’ in the event a cooperator moves or dies. DHCR regulations provide that eligible persons may continue to live in an apartment after the death or move-out of the cooperator. Riverbay’s policy follows DHCR rules.

It should be noted that while new ownership can only be assumed if the primary owner of the apartment moves out or passes away, according to the rules and regulations, only persons who meet all of the regulatory requirements may obtain leases and stock certificates in their own name as successors.

As a general rule, whenever there is a change in the number of persons living in the apartment, Riverbay should be notified within ninety (90) calendar days of any such changes through the use of an Interim Affidavit Form, which can be obtained from the shareholder’s respective Cooperator Services Office (CSO). This is important for those occupants to potentially have succession rights at some point in the future. The annual filing of the Income Affidavit accomplishes this, as well as filing an Interim Affidavit in between annual filings.

If the primary shareholder moves out permanently, any member of the shareholder’s family or life companion may apply for succession, and if approved by DHCR, sign a new lease, and be issued a stock certificate. However, this person must meet certain requirements.

• They must have resided with the shareholder in the apartment as their primary residence for a period not less than two years; or for one year if the succeeding shareholder is a senior citizen or disabled person, immediately prior to permanent vacating of the apartment by the shareholder.

• In cases where the shareholder occupancy is less than two years before the primary shareholder passed, the succession applicant must have lived in the apartment from the inception of the tenancy.

• The succession applicant must have been listed on the Income Affidavit and/ or Interim Income Affidavit during the relevant period of time.

Per DHCR rules, the “relevant period of time” must be documented by two (2) annual affidavits i.e. annual affidavits for the two prior years before the shareholder passed or permanently vacated. Or, interim affidavit plus annual affidavit for the two prior years before the shareholder passed or permanently vacated, if the successor moves in between annual filings.

DHCR’s rules define “family member” as a husband, wife, son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, father, mother, stepfather, stepmother, brother, sister, grandfather, grandmother, grandson, granddaughter, father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-

law or daughter-in-law of the primary cooperator.

DHCR’s definition of “family member” also includes any other person/s residing with the primary owner in the apartment as a primary resident who can prove emotional and financial commitment and interdependence between such person/s and the primary owner.

“Primary residence” is defined as the housing accommodation in which the person actually resides and maintains a permanent and continuous physical presence. Proof of such residency must consist of the Income Affidavit or Interim Income Affidavits together with other evidence, for example, certified copies of tax returns, voting records, motor vehicle registration and driver’s license, school registration, bank accounts, employment records, insurance policies and other pertinent documentation.

“Life companion” and “extended family” is defined as any other person residing with the shareholder as a primary resident who can prove emotional and financial commitment and interdependence between such person and the shareholder. Evidence of this can be the Income Affidavit or Interim Income Affidavit filed by the primary shareholder, as well as evidence of longevity of the relationship; sharing of or relying upon each other for payment of household or family expenses; joint ownership of bank accounts, personal and real property, credit cards, loan obligations, sharing a household budget for purposes of receiving governmental benefits; engaging in family type activities by jointly attending family functions; and formalizing of legal obligations by such means as executing wills, naming each other as executor and/or beneficiary, granting each other power of attorney, etc.

The other path through which a successor can be named to the apartment is through death of the primary shareholder. If this is the case, the lease and shares of stock for the decedent’s apartment shall be surrendered to the Riverbay Sales Office by the decedent’s estate or survivors for redemption.

If there are no legal disputes, Riverbay will sell or transfer the shares to any member of the decedent’s family or life companion as long as they meet all of the succession requirements stipulated by DHCR’s rules and regulations.

Any family member or life companion of a shareholder seeking approval to remain in occupancy after the cooperator moves or dies should submit a written request within ninety (90) days to Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. 10475, Attn.: Succession Rights.

It is imperative that shareholders understand that no other types of stock transfers or lease amendments are allowed except those directed by statute or an appropriate tribunal or court of law.

Co-op City residents may visit the “Resources” page on the Riverbay website at www.coopcity.com and scroll down to “Legal” for a copy of these succession rights as well as a fillable Succession Request form. Also, tune to the Riverbay Crawler for a discussion on Succession with Board Director Leslie Peterson, chair of the Residential Sales Committee and Jeff Buss, Riverbay General Counsel.

Just a few years ago, there was a severe problem with a convector in an apartment. Thereafter, water gushed out of that convector and flooded that entire apartment. Next, that water condition was so bad that it flooded out the hallway, other apartments, and even the stairwell.

Then, can you believe that water went from that apartment all the way down to the lobby? Over? No!!! This story gets worse because they discovered that an elevator wasn’t working. So, it was determined that the elevator would be out for several weeks at a cost of about $150,000.

Building 14 – Receives Some New Convectors

Our management initially made arrangements with a manufacturer to receive six convectors for free. Then, management made an offer to purchase twenty-six additional units. Thereafter, the manufacturer gave six additional convectors to Riverbay for free.

So, Riverbay had a total thirty-two convectors to be installed in building 14. (Building 14 is across the street from the Peartree Mall.) Cost? Management previously stated that these convectors plus the installation work would cost around $65,000.

And, according to a management report, those convectors were installed in the living rooms on just one line of apartments in building 14. But, receiving one convector in an apartment is good. However, we need to understand that the convectors in the other rooms are over 50 years old. Therefore, the big question is: Is there a possibility that the other convectors might start leaking in the other rooms?

So, do you see a possible problem that could occur with this approach to stopping convector leaks? Furthermore, from a financial standpoint, we need to understand that we have 15,372 apartments here. Therefore, do you honestly think that we can currently afford to replace the convectors in all our apartments? No!!!

So, in my opinion, we need to consider different concepts when we’re looking at old convectors and limited finances. One concept is to have an en-

gineering firm develop a case to encapsulate all of the convector components. Then, that case would be connected to a drainage system that would extend downward from each apartment. Thereafter, not one drop of water would be able to drip outside of that case. Nothing!!! So, no more convector leaks.

NYC Proposal – Build 200,000 Housing Units

Currently, there is a NYC proposal to build 200,000 new housing units over the next ten years. These housing units will be for households earning less than $70,000 a year. This proposal calls for these housing units to be permanently affordable.

Job Training Programs

As a board director, I feel a sense of responsibility to help my community. And, that is why I publish strong viewpoints to push our community forward. Plus, I will talk to our community about jobs and other services. This way, our residents can help themselves and other people.

Lots of companies are posting their jobs online. But, some folks might need some training to help them to get a job. And, that’s why there are some good job training programs that are posted online. For instance, the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development has a free workforce training program named ‘Commonpoint.’

According to a flyer, they offer free vocational training and other benefits at several locations. So, please go online and check out their programs. Keep Encouraging Them

I want to encourage all parents to please continue to work with your family members. Can you have positive discussions with them? Can you teach them the value of performing good work and producing good results on and away from a job? But, first, can you teach them to be receptive about getting a job?

It wasn’t easy to get a job many years ago. But, now, lots of jobs are posted online. However, in some cases, things have changed big time. For instance, it seems like some family members might be receiving some encouragement to get a job. Thereafter, they’re applying for a job. But, that’s it! Example, an employer will call a candidate. How-

Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto, in conjunction with the Iona University Accounting department, is once again offering free income tax preparation for seniors 62 years of age or older who reside within the boundaries of his district (Co-op City, Throggs Neck, Morris Park, Pelham Bay, and City Island).

Tax documents can be dropped off at the Assemblyman’s office beginning on Monday, February 9, and is limited to seniors who meet the following criteria:

• Simple filings only!

• Complete copies of 2024 federal and state returns must be included

• Name, Social Security number, and date of birth of all people claimed on the return as taxpayers and dependents

• Adjusted gross income (AGI) for 2025 must be under $50,000

• All necessary paperwork must be included as a complete file and brought to the office, otherwise it will be returned

• You must provide us with a telephone or cellphone number at which you can be reached during normal business hours and on Saturdays

• You must provide a photo ID so a copy can be included with your tax paperwork

• Include a cancelled check to facilitate the timely deposit of the refund into your checking account

You must inform the tax preparer if there have been any changes in taxpayers or dependents from your 2024 return, such as birth or death of a taxpayer or dependent.

ever, some candidates know that they placed a call screening service on their personal phone. Therefore, they can actually hear an employer talking about setting up a possible interview. But, will some candidates respond to that call? Or, will some candidates even bother to return that call? Look, in both cases, can you believe that the answer might be no?

Bottom line: Some capable family members might love staying at home, possibly for free. But, that’s when some parents need to help their family members to possibly see matters from, say, a different perspective.

Garages – Park Properly

Some folks are receiving tickets because of the way that they parked their vehicle in our garages. So, I want to encourage everyone to please park your vehicle in a proper manner. Thank you.

Close

We will not allow our community, Co-op City, to go down. Therefore, we must be strong and help one another. 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.

Seniors are encouraged to bring all their tax documents to Assemblyman Benedetto’s office at 3602 East Tremont Ave, Suite 201, or 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 12, anytime from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. (The tax preparer will collect documentation until Friday, March 13th, and no more taxes will be done after that date. All participants will be contacted when the forms are completed.)

This free service is limited to the first 100 constituent respondents.

All returns are prepared by student volunteers from Iona University, under the direct supervision of Prof. William A. Bottiglieri, as a service to the community. All returns will indicate that they were prepared by a non-preparer. For more information, please contact Assemblyman Benedetto’s office at (718) 320-2220 or (718) 892-2235.

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Changes Coming to NY Essential Plan

Changes to the eligibility rules for New York’s Essential Plan (EP) are coming later this year.

Starting July 1 the maximum income level for the Essential Plan will decrease from 250% of the Federal Poverty Line back down to 200%. Estimates from the state suggest that approximately 460,000 current enrollees will be affected by the new income limit requirements.

Below is a quick glance at what the maximum income levels are under the new eligibility requirements, according to the 2026 Federal Poverty Line breakdown provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS):

* A household of one will be capped at a maximum income of $31,920

* A household of two will be capped at $43,280

* A household of three will be capped at $54,640

* A household of four will be capped at $66,000

* A household of five will be capped at $77,360

New York originally expanded the eligibility for the Essential Plan in 2024 after the state was given permission to administer the program under a Section 1332 State Innovation Waiver. However, President Donald Trump signed the H.R.1 bill into law on July 4, 2025, enacting sweeping changes to several federal programs and departments, as well as changing the premium tax credit eligibility. Due to this change, “one-third of the Essential Plan’s enrollees and over half of the EP’s funding under the 1332 Waiver, will be eliminated once fully implemented,” as explained by Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office on January 13. New York will be unable “to operate the Essential Plan under its current Waiver authority,” the Governor’s Office went on to say.

Fortunately, New York has a plan in place to mitigate the impact of the new changes and provide health insurance for as many affected Essential Plan enrollees as possible. The state wants to restart the Basic Health Program (BHP) by reverting “the Essential Plan from the 1332 Waiver to its former authority under Section 1331 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). According to the Governor’s office, this shift will maintain low to no cost health insurance coverage for roughly 1.3 million beneficiaries, using the accumulated Basic Health Program Trust Fund.”

In order to revert the Essential Plan back under Section 1331 of the ACA,

New York applied for permission to do so with the United States Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). In their October 2025 proposal to CMS, the state requested that “affected enrollees’ coverage will be transitioned to CMS approved coverage options depending on their income at that time. Those who are eligible for BHP coverage will be in the Essential Plan under the BHP authority, experiencing no change in coverage.” Currently, New York is still awaiting a decision from CMS, and if CMS grants the permission, the state can officially reactivate the Basic Health Program by July 1, 2026.

New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) plans to “send individualized notices 90-days prior to the effective date of eligibility change to all impacted Essential Plan expansion members,” NYSDOH said in October of 2025. Next, NYSDOH plans to implement a special enrollment period from April through June of this year to allow individuals to enroll in a CMS approved coverage option. Individuals will have 90 days to pick a new plan, which they can do by logging into their New York State of Health account at nystateofhealth.ny.gov.

Riverbay Staff Undergo Respirator Fit Testing

Riverbay employees in the Grounds, Restoration, Tiling and Extermination departments were among those who received respirator fit testing by Mobile Health on Wednesday, Feb. 11. This is an annual test that staff members whose duties involve the use of respirators are required to undergo. The testing took place in room 31 at the Bartow Center and 48 employees participated in the session.

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this, it finds you in good standing. A good time was had by all at the Super Bowl Tablegate Watch Party in Dreiser. Many Co-op City residents came out and braved the bitter cold for an evening of fun beautiful displays for the Super Bowl theme. There was food galore, music, and dancing. It was simply a wonderful evening.

Building 6 Association

This week’s Black History Month feature is Carter G. Wooden, the father of Black history. The Harvard trained scholar started Negro History Week in 1926 to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, aiming to ensure Black contributions were recognized and studied. Over the following decades, the week-long celebration grew in popularity and was officially expanded to Black History Month by President Gerald Ford in 1976. He felt the need to honor often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans. Black history was essential to ensure the physical and intellectual survival of the race within a broader American society.

Compactor Room Etiquette: Never place raw garbage down the chute. All recyclables must be rinsed out and placed in the clear bag. All bulk boxes should be taken down to the basement for disposal. Keeping the compactor room clean is a deterrent for roaches and vermin. Don’t be a litterbug.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Please remove your load within 15 minutes of completion. Pick up all debris, used dryer sheets, and empty detergent bottles and place them in the properly marked receptacle. Never spray an aerosol disinfectant in the machine, as that could ignite a fire

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can dial 988; the hotline is open 24/7. As the saying goes, “if you see something, you say something.” Call 718-671-3050 or dial 911. Over the weekend, CCPD was seen in the building

doing inspections. We would like to thank the CCPD officers who helped the Seenager neighbors cross the street Sunday night after the Super Bowl party in Dreiser. These officers are our first line of defense against criminal and unsavory behavior. So, Obrigado. As always, we pray for safety over all.

“Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community.” ––Anthony J. D’Angelo

—Lauren K. Lassiter

Building 28 Association

Dearest shareholders, Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Super Bowl Watch Party. It was an evening filled with energy, laughter, and true community spirit.

A special thank you to Aaron Carnegie for assisting with the projection — your support helped make the night a success. The food, refreshments, and desserts were wonderful, but what truly stood out was the unity in the room. Neighbors gathering together, sharing conversation, and enjoying the moment, that is what makes Building 28 special.

As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”

Please continue to stay warm during these winter days. Spring is around the corner, bringing fresh beginnings and more opportunities for us to grow stronger — together.

With appreciation, —Idalia Reyes

Neighbors, please remember to curb your dog. It is the law!

Velocity Track Club

Celebrating leadership, legacy, and excellence at Velocity Track Club! We would like to take a moment to recognize and extend our deepest gratitude to Gary Caldwell, affectionately known as Coach Gary, for his extraordinary dedication and service to Velocity Track Club New York.

For approximately 11 years, Coach Gary generously volunteered his time, knowledge, and passion to mentor and develop our youth, leaving a lasting and meaningful impact on the club. Although Coach Gary primarily led our mid-distance athletes, he consistently stepped in wherever support was needed. From turbo javelin and sprints to long jump and triple jump, he ensured every athlete received guidance, encouragement, and the opportunity to grow.

Under his leadership, Velocity Track Club earned numerous medals in mid-distance and distance events. Coach Gary was dependable, deeply knowledgeable in track and field, and genuinely loved by the athletes. His presence, leadership, and commitment will be greatly missed.

On behalf of the entire Velocity Track Club family, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for Coach Gary’s unwavering dedication and years of service. It was truly an honor to work alongside him, and he will always remain a valued and cherished member of the Velocity family.

Velocity Track Club Shines at the Colgate Women’s Games Finals

On Saturday, February 7, Velocity Track Club proudly had two exceptional athletes compete in the Colgate Women’s Games Finals at the Nike Track & Field Armory. The finals brought together the top six athletes based on cumulative points from two preliminary and semifinal meets. All finalists were

recognized with commemorative sweatsuits and trophies, and the top three finishers earned educational grants.

The event was made even more memorable by appearances from worldclass athletes, including Sha’Carri Richardson, Dalilah Muhammad, Ajee Wilson, Natasha Hastings, and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, providing inspiration to athletes and spectators alike. We are proud to congratulate our athletes on their outstanding achievements:

Madison Taylor, 2nd Place – Middle School High Jump

Lyon Achigbu, 2nd Place – Middle School 55-meter Hurdles

Alumni Jennifer Thomas, 6th place – High School 55 meters dash.

Additionally, the event served as a meaningful reunion, bringing together former Zodiac coaches, athletes, and families. It was a pleasure reconnecting with everyone and especially meaningful to see Mr. Robert Taylor, founder of the Bronx Zodiacs, who gave me my start as a coach 25 years ago. The day truly reflected the power of mentorship, community, and legacy in youth athletics.

Thank you.

—Coach Winston Dinkins

Statepoint Media - Theme: World Explorers

ACROSS

1. UPS competitor

5. “The One I Love” band

8. Prior to, pref.

11. Gin flavor

12. ____wig or ____winkle

13. Command to Fido

15. ____ Grey of tea fame

16. Policemen’s surprise

17. Brunch offering

18. *Explorer Amerigo’s last name

20. Rock opera version of “La Boheme”

21. Gossipmonger, in Yiddish

22. Ballet step

23. *Henry the Navigator’s title

26. Chicken pox pimples

30. Poetic “even”

31. Demosthenes or Cicero

34. “The ____ on the Floss”

35. Stories “from the Crypt”

37. Rank above maj.

38. Sore spot

39. “Happily ____ after”

40. Familiar routine

42. “Wow!”

43. Retina, pl.

45. *Explorer Shackleton’s first name

47. New on the block?

48. Barbara Eden’s TV character

50. Rumple

52. *First one to circumnavigate globe, almost

55. *Lewis’ or Clark’s vessel

56. Fictional giant

57. Plaintiff

59. Shrovetide dish

60. Zig or zag

61. Dunking cookie

62. “____ and the City”

63. “C’____ la vie!”

64. Backgammon predecessor

DOWN

1. Take drugs

2. Bohemian, e.g.

3. Skin opening

4. Short for self-synchronous

5. Don’t just stand there!

6. “Fear of Flying” author Jong

7. Skirt length

8. Part of a hammer

9. Wholly engrossed

10. Obtain, but just barely

12. Gardening tool

13. Junk yard stuff

14. *”Dr. Livingstone, I ____?”

19. Fictional cowboy Bill

22. One better than bogey

23. J.M. Barrie’s Pan

24. Plunder

25. *Geographical feature named for Ponce de Leon

26. *Inspiration for hide-and-seek game

27. City in Belgium

28. North Pole workers

29. Winter driving hazard

32. Homesteader’s purchase, sing.

33. Likewise

36. *Possibly America’s first European Leif ____

38. Jeopardy

40. Horse poker

41. Tooth cover

44. One born to Japanese immigrants

46. Willie of country music fame

48. Dashboard windows

49. Type of heron

50. Gender checkbox

51. Windows alternative

52. Change address

53. Mystique

54. Not ever, poetically

55. TV network

58. “Maggie May” singer

Riverbay Telephone System Call Center:

Press 1 if you have a Public Safety emergency

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

Press 3 to schedule Extermination Services

Press 4 to reach Cooperator Services Office

Press 5 to reach the Rent Bookkeeper

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

Press 7 to reach Residential Sales

Press 8 to reach Co-op City Times

Press 9 to Dial by Directory

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

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

Coinmach Laundry - (800) 734-8851

Cablevision - (718) 617-3500

Goose Island Seniors

We are sorry to hear of the passing of Louise Signore, a good friend and former member of the Senior Citizens Social Club of Goose Island. We will miss her dearly.

Wind Creek Casino – This Thurs., Feb. 19, in Bethlehem, PA. Price: $70; bonus, $25 for play. Bus arrivals: Einstein Loop at 7:45 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:10 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8:20 a.m. Balance due: Jan. 28.

Wind Creek Casino – Sat. March 7, in Bethlehem, PA. Price: $70; bonus, $25 for play. Call 646-579-1701.

Foxwoods Casino and Tanger Outlet – Tues., March 10. Cancelled

Sight and Sound “Joshua” – Thurs., March 26, in Lancaster, PA. Lunch at Golden Corral, then 3 p.m. show. Price: $215; $50 deposit to hold seat. Balance due: March 4. Bus arrivals: Einstein Loop at 8:45 a.m., Dreiser Loop at 9:10 a.m. and Asch Loop at 9:20 a.m. Payment due: Feb. 19.

Resort World Casino, Monticello, NY – Tues., April 14. Price: $70; bonus, $25 slot play, $15 food voucher. Balance due: March 25.

Atlantic City – Adults only. May 14, June 25, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 10.

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

Norwegian Greek Isle Cruise – May 18-27. Price: $3,293-3,945. Call 646579-1701

Niagara Falls and Toronto Trip – July 6-10. Roundtrip transportation, breakfasts, dinners, hotel and tours included. Single: $1,199; double: $979. Call 646-579-1701.

Nordic Lodge & Foxwood Casino – Sat. Aug 1st. Price $240. Call 646579-1701.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem PA. Tues., Oct. 6. Price: $70, bonus, $25 for play.

Resort World Casino, Monticello, NY – Tues., Nov. 10. Price: $70; bonus, $25 slot play and $15 food voucher.

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

Bingo – Mon., Wed., and Fri. from 1:15 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Members only.

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry: 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). The pantry is open on Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. All guests must present a pantry card, at least 4-6 clean shopping bags with handles and a shopping cart to receive food. We will not place food in black bags because they pose a safety hazard. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. This distribution site is open Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The groceries are supplied by and distributed by Black Forum. Religious affiliation is not required. For the safety of our staff and other guests, mask-wearing is required when picking up food.

To ensure the well-being of our staff, volunteers, and all guests, we reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who engages in disruptive or aggressive behavior. We will also cease service if an individual poses a risk to the safety of our staff or other guests.

New Client Registration & Re-Certification For Returners: New client registration and returning client re-certification will reopen January 8 through April 2026. To register or re-certify, individuals must be 18 years or older and present a valid IDNYC card, NY State Driver’s License, or NY State Non-Driver’s License ONLY. All household members must be present with valid identification and reside within the 10475 zip code. The intake forms will only include the number of household members who are able to show up in person at the office. Please bring a mid-sized to large shopping cart and clean shopping bags for grocery pickup. All current pantry guests must re-certify to continue receiving food assistance. New guests and those who previously registered but did not re-certify in 2025 are also welcome to register.

Those living in Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 should register or re-certify at 920 Baychester Avenue. Section 5 residents should go to 2350 Palmer Avenue. Call 311 to apply for a free IDNYC card. ALL guests must join the line to receive any information. Please do not approach the entrance door. A staff member will come to you.

Fundraisers & Fun!

Support our community with a fun day out! Your participation in our events will help cover the rent, insurance, and supplies needed to provide the community with free nutritious food and household supplies. For trip interest only, please call 917-209-5334 or 929-464-5520.

Atlantic City Tropicana Casino – Saturday, June 27. Total: $70. Casino Rebate: $20. We’re accepting payments now through April 30. No refunds. Sight & Sound’s Joshua & Shady Maple Smorgasbord Dining – Friday, August 21. Total: $225. We’re accepting three payments of $75 each now. First payment to hold your seat was due 10/24/2025. Second payment is due 02/14/2026 and third payment is due 04/18/26. Please be prompt with payments. No refunds.

Contact Us: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com

—D. Illis

Building 15B Association

Hello, neighbors.

We would like to invite you to our next Building Association meeting that will be on Thursday, February 19, at 6:30 p.m., in our meeting room in the rear lobby of Building 15B.

We will have a guest speaker, director of Restoration, Mr. Edgar Perez. Please come down to our meeting. If you have any questions or concerns, he will gladly answer them.

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

Thank you,

—Sandy Krasnove

Admission: $5 for three cards; $0.25 each additional card. Twelve games and jackpot. Refreshments.

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

To All Members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of February: Rita Johnson, Ida (Mitzi) Cleare, Zelma Usher, Pauline Taylor, Lauren Frederick, Zoraida Garcia, Janice L. Walcott, Grace Osei, Frederica Kendall, Joyce Chaney, Lucila Correa, Ruth Brantley, Yvonne Menefee and Aida Gonzalez.

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

Our club is located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, the Section 5 Community Center. Phone: 718-379-9613. Stephen Cell: 347-8471941 (Zelle available). Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net. Cash App: $StephenCarlSr. Membership dues are $30 annually.

Good health to all.

—Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Building 13 Association

Weather: Please take extra precautions when going outside; bundle up in layers and cover your extremities. The weather has been frigid, so dress appropriately.

Happy Valentine’s Day. Celebrated annually on February 14, this day is dedicated to expressing love and affection. It is named after St. Valentine.

Happy Galentine’s Day Celebrated on the Friday before Valentine’s Day, this is an unofficial holiday dedicated to honoring female friendships. It’s a day for “ladies celebrating ladies,” and was initiated from the TV show “Parks and Recreation” in 2010.

Notices have been posted regarding the annual submission of Window Guard questionnaires that must be returned by February 15, 2026. To date, I have been informed by many that, as of this writing, they have not received an envelope in the mail with information about the form and its return.

If you have not received the Window Guard form and in some reported cases your tax information, please contact the Jr. Property Manager (CSO) for Building 13, Ms. English, at LEnglish@ riverbaycorp.com. Please check the bulletin board for information regarding our upcoming meeting.

The official Black History Month is celebrating 100 years since the first Black History Week in 1926. This gives everyone the opportunity to reflect on the many achievements and accomplishments made to American History.

Events in Co-op City for Black History Month:

• February 21 – Riverbay, NAACP, and the American Legion Black History Month Program, Einstein, at 1 p.m.

• February 27 – JASA, Bartow, 11 a.m.

• February 28 – NCNW Black History Month Program, Dreiser, at 12 p.m.

Reminder: Nominations for offices will be held at February’s meeting. Please see the bulletin board in the lobby for guidelines and requirements. In February’s meeting, we hope to have copies of the by-laws ready to distribute. Membership dues for the upcoming fiscal year will be collected in March and April.

Parents, if you have a 17-year-old or a youth that will be 17 years old by the November elections, this next message is for you. The Board of Elections in the City of New York is preparing for the upcoming elections and is now accepting applications for the 17-Year-Old Student Poll Worker Program. The program promotes civic awareness and educates high school students about the election process by allowing them to serve as poll workers on Election Day. For additional information and application visit: https://studentpollworker.vote.nyc/

FYI: Our building is a non-profit 501c3 and we are thankful for the consideration of our Councilman Kevin Riley and the NYC Council’s support empowering local groups to meet crucial needs and offer cultural programs.

The success of our Association depends on active participation from residents. “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” —Coretta Scott King

Visit our Facebook page at: Building 13 Association Inc. Co-op City or e-mail us at building13assoc@yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370 or Wendell Mattison, VP, at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.

—Leslie Peterson

Section 5 Association

Section 5, we hope all went through the snowstorm of which we have not had for a few years. I don’t recall a frozen river, nor much snow, however, the workers did the best they could to make clear our pathways.

The Section 5 Association meeting was held virtually by Zoom on January 28. The meeting was called to order by President Carol Arthur. We had several speakers. Speaker Roberto Sanchez is the head of a mental health center. Chief Andre Waring introduced himself and reminded us that eBikes are not allowed within our buildings. Al Quattlebaum and Felix Omozusi also spoke at our meeting. Ms. Kim Toulson is now the president of the Building 31 Association.

Window Guard Form – Due 2/15/2026. They can be filled out online as well.

Please be mindful of the ban on decorations in public places on the premises of Co-op City due to possible fire hazards. If you are not sure, please visit the Community Service Office (CSO) in the Einstein Center.

Closing of Exit 9 – This is the exit to enter and exit out of Section 5 to I-95. Community Board 10 will schedule an upcoming public meeting with Co-op City on the closure of exit 9. When the date is set, we ask that each building association posts fliers to make sure their building shareholders are notified and made aware. Few people read the Co-op City Times. Fliers are very essential if posted by the elevators so that they are in eye view. Again, we in Section 5 must voice our opinions to keep our community safe and quiet, without outsiders making plans for this community. If we allow exit 9 to be closed, then there is only one route in and out of Section 5?

We are shareholders, and cooperators have the right to be involved in what matters to our livelihood and community. We expect and ask our political leaders to respect and honor their constituents by having discussions and town hall meetings on issues that matter to the community as opposed to making decisions for us. We will and must pay our taxes to the government that provides the funding.

Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. If a neighbor is sick, in the hospital, or in a nursing home, please contact us. To those in bereavement, you have our deepest sympathy.

“Never give up. Keep your thoughts and our mind always on the goal.” — Tom Bradley

—H. Overman

NAACP

The NAACP marches to defend democracy and combat racism and discrimination in communities across the country. Located in the Einstein Community Center, Rm. 36, we meet the fourth Sunday of the month at 3 p.m. The office hours are Monday & Wednesday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Join us: Black History Month Program: On Saturday, February 21, in the Einstein Auditorium in Section 5 from 1-3 p.m., we will present, “Fighting for Democracy.” The NAACP Co-op City Branch has collaborated with the American Legion Post 1871 and Riverbay Corporation to bring you an intriguing program that will include guest speaker, Councilman Yusef Salaam (exonerated five), and a Co-op City shareholder and alum of the first and only Black Military Academy in the country, along with music, video, and lite refreshments. Flyers will be posted soon. (Opportunity for youth to volunteer.)

One hundred years ago, a visionary named Carter G. Woodson proposed a bold idea: a dedicated week to celebrate the history and achievements of Black people. Today, we mark the centennial of what grew from Negro History Week into Black History Month, we celebrate a century of resilience and our unyielding demand to be seen, heard, and respected. Since its inception, Black History Month has served as a powerful declaration that Black history is American history.

We look back at this past century with pride, reflection, and determination. Pride for the giants whose shoulders we stand on, people like Dr. Woodson, who armed us with knowledge, leaders like Thurgood Marshall, a son of the NACCP, who used the law as a weapon for justice, and activists like Rosa Parks, whose quiet courage ignited a movement. We honor the artists, the scientists, the innovators, the hidden figures, and the everyday heroes whose contributions have shaped every facet of our nation. Their stories are ones of triumph against unimaginable odds.

At the same time, we reflect on the painful truths of this journey. The century behind us was marked by lynchings, voter suppression, and systemic discrimination. Our fight for basic human dignity and rights was met with brutal resistance along the way, but the NAACP was born from this struggle, and for 117 years, we have been on the front lines, fighting for a world where your race does not determine your destiny. But let us be clear: we will not stand by and let anyone rob our children of the truth and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP.

Looking to make an even greater impact? Become a champion for change and join us to keep advancing Annual membership: Adult, $30; Youth, $10; Silver Life, $750, until March 31. Make ck/MO payable to NAACP Co-op City. Mailing address: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36, Bronx, NY 10475. To become a member online, go to: www.naacp.org membership. Select “Co-op City” (2210) and join. To leave a message, call the office phone at: 718-320-3210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com.

—Brenda Brown

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section – Save the date, Saturday, February 28, when we will have our 25th Annual Black History Month Youth Celebration, co-sponsored with the Riverbay Fund. The program will be in Bartow Community Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Rm. 31, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Youth groups and young adults interested in volunteering to showcase their talents in song, dance, stepping, playing an instrument, poetry, spoken word, drama skit, etc. please contact Akeisha Neely at 917-826-5644 or ncnwcoopcityyouth@ gmail.com. We are reaching out in advance to you in the event your school/ organization would like to participate in our celebration. Also, you don’t want to miss the “giveaways,” such as “New Edition” concert tickets for a live performance at Barclay’s Center or a brand-new laptop computer! Come help us celebrate the talented young people in our community! You don’t know what future celebrity you might be encouraging. Come one, come all!!

Women Represent – On Saturday, April 25, in the Dreiser Community Center, Rm. 4, we will be combining Women’s History Month (March) with National Poetry Month (April) with a production of “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf,” the choreopoem by Ntozake Shange. The chair of this committee is looking for seven actors to appear in this choreopoem. If you think that you might be interested in a role in this performance, please contact Camille Worrell at worrellsworth@aol.com.

A Broadway background is not necessary!!

February is Heart Health Awareness Month – Even though heart disease is the number one killer of all Americans, Blacks (male and female) are 30% more likely to suffer from heart disease than white Americans. One of the most common kinds of heart disease is commonly called “heart failure.” This means that your heart is not pumping blood through your body as efficiently as it needs to. It can make you feel tired, short of breath, weak and unable to enjoy things that you used to enjoy. You may have swelling (edema) in your legs and ankles. You may have excess fluid in your lungs causing shortness of breath. The primary treatments for heart failure are medications, and lifestyle changes such as eating a low-sodium diet, controlling your weight and quitting smoking. If your disease continues to advance, you may ultimately need the implantation of a pacemaker or even a heart transplant.

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

Happy Valentine’s Day to all!

—Joyce Howard

African American Association of Co-op City

General Meeting

The first General Meeting of the association for 2026 was held on Sunday, January 18, at 3 p.m., in Dreiser Center, Rm. 15. The meeting was well attended by the community who defied the odds of the bad weather for the weekend. President Toba LaCrown welcomed everyone and wished them a fruitful and prosperous new year. Mr. George Majemite, a prospective member, opened the meeting with prayer, and the Black National Anthem was chorused in solidarity. Membership chair reported that a total of 21 members renewed their membership since the November meeting. The president charged the Membership Committee to recruit at least ten new members monthly Bylaw Ratification

The association bylaw was ratified. The review of the document started in October 2025 when the new board was inaugurated, contributions were allowed by all members, and two meetings were held to make sure that the document received all the necessary attention. The general assembly reviewed the final document for the last time, and necessary areas were adjusted to prevent possible ambiguity. Motion to ratify the revised document was made by Elder Francine Reva Jones and was seconded by Ms. Gloria Umoh. With no further comment, the ratification was unanimously approved. The last time the bylaw was reviewed was in 2008.

MLKJ Event

We discussed the event for the observance of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. The event was held on Monday, January 19, at 3 p.m., at the Church of New Vision. The president thanked Shana Montgomery for the fantastic flyer designed for the event. The appeal to all the executive members to arrive by 2 p.m. was upheld. Awards were presented to the Riverbay Executive General Manager, Marvin Walton (Co-op City community), and the Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson for Bronx Borough. Other prospective awardees like Public Advocate Jumaane Williams for the City of New York and NYS Attorney General Letitia James were unavoidably absent due to conflict with other engagements.

Black History Month Gala

In celebration of the Black History Month, the president announced that the annual event would span through the month of February with a new program called “The Conversation.” The members agreed that every Saturday, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., in Rm. 15, at the Dreiser Community Center, there will be a round table discussion on several topics about Black in America. Different topics would be chosen every week, and individuals would come around and deliberate on them. The association invites the public to partake in this program for education about our history and the challenge of building a secure future. On the last Friday of the month, February 27, at Eastwood Manor, there will be a gala and award night to celebrate our community leaders doing extraordinary things to keep the flag flying. The gala goes for $120 pp and $110 for members. —Toba Adeyemi LaCrown

Pentecostal Tabernacle

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

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 204, Bronx, NY 10475. Service Schedule

Sunday: Morning Worship Service at 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Wednesday: Morning Prayer and Fasting Service, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer Meeting will be held online at 7:30 p.m.

Friday: Worship Service at 7:30 p.m.

All night services are held online; you are welcome to join by calling 727731-4156.

Focus: The Ministry of Teaching (Matthew 28:19-20)

To be a disciple of Christ means to obey Jesus’ commands, including baptism, and to be willing to submit to His teachings. The ministry of teaching is essential because it helps others learn to act like Jesus.

God has entrusted the church with the responsibility to disciple all nations through teaching.

Romans 12:7 encourages those who have the gift of teaching to be dedicated to this ministry.

Scriptural Examples of Teaching and Discipleship

Acts 8:5-8 “Philip went down to Samaria and preached Christ to the people. With one accord, the people listened to Philip, witnessing the miracles he performed. Unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. As a result, there was great joy in that city.”

Acts 8:25-36 “After testifying and preaching the word of the Lord, Philip and his companions returned to Jerusalem, sharing the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans. Then, an angel of the Lord instructed Philip to go south toward the road from Jerusalem to Gaza, which is a desert area. Philip obeyed and encountered an Ethiopian eunuch, a man of great authority under Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of her treasury. The eunuch had come to Jerusalem to worship and was reading from the prophet Isaiah while traveling in his chariot. The Spirit directed Philip to approach the chariot. Philip heard the eunuch reading Isaiah and asked if he understood what he was reading. The eunuch replied that he needed someone to guide him and invited Philip to join him.The passage being read described as someone led as a sheep to slaughter, silent before his shearer. The eunuch asked Philip who the prophet spoke about, himself or someone else. Philip began with that scripture and preached Jesus to him. As they continued their journey, they came to some water. The eunuch, seeing the water, asked what would prevent him from being baptized.”

This chapter demonstrates how, after Philip preached and taught the gospel message in Samaria, the angel guided him to the Ethiopian official to continue the ministry of teaching and sharing the gospel.

Acts 8:37-38 “And Philip said, if thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest, and he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they both went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him.”

—Rev. R. Sibblies

Church of the New Vision

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

Our Scripture of Meditation for 2026 is:Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Come Fellowship With Us: Sunday School for adults and youths begin at 9:30 a.m.

Sunday morning worship service is 11 a.m. All are welcome. Fasting, prayer, and meditation is the last Wednesday of each month.

Daily Noon Day Prayer Line: 12-12:30 p.m., Monday–Friday. Wednesday Night Bible Study and Prayer: 7-8 p.m.

The conference call line number is 646-769-9900; Access Code: 3099088#. Please mute your phone.

Worship Message: “Neutralizing Satan”

Scripture Lesson: James 4:7-8 KJV “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.”

James 4:10, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”

Save the Dates

Wednesday, February 18 – 40 days fast begins, ends on Resurrection Sunday.

Saturday, February 21 – Black History Month Celebration, 1-4 p.m. Saturday, February 28 – Amen Ministries, Inc. presents a Gospel Prayer Breakfast, “Building the Community through Fellowship,” 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Sunday, March 15 – Celebrating our Pastor’s 10th Anniversary Celebration Service at 3 p.m.

Guest Speaker will be Pastor Diane Simmons of Life Line Ministries. Wednesday, August 12 – Sight & Sound Theatre, “Joshua,” includes R/T Transportation and all you can eat smorgasbord at Shady Maple Farm Market. Deposit: $50 to secure your seat.

Women’s Fellowship-Women’s Retreat – Spruce Lake Retreat & Conference Center, PA. Thursday, Sept. 24-26. Standard Rooms: PP Double: $500; Triple: $440; Single: $680. Includes two nights/three-day accommodation (double occupancy), six meals, R/T motor-coach transportation, retreat materials. Secure your reservation with a non-refundable deposit of $50. Double/$100 single, due February 8. Second deposit of $150 is due April 19. Final payment is due August 16. For further information, contact: Sis. L. Scott at 718-671-2623, Sis. S. James at 917-667-4229 or Sis. H. Smith at 718-7085035.

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 the New vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475. Thank you.

—Brenda Brown

Building 33 Association

Hello, Building 33 residents.

My name is Tobias Garcia and I am the newly elected Building 33 Association president. Elections were held earlier this year in January, and a new board was elected to serve our building community: Tobias Garcia, president; Jazmine Ramos, vice president; and Alethea Cherebin, secretary. Together, we are committed to supporting the needs of Building 33 and strengthening our building community.

The proposed Building 33 bylaws have been posted in the lobby for resident review and are also available online at www.WeAreBuilding33.org.

Our next Building 33 Association meeting will take place Thursday evening, February 19th. Additional details, including the exact time, will be posted and shared with residents. Officers will be officially sworn in, residents will vote on the proposed adoption of the bylaws, and additional building business will be discussed.

In the coming weeks, we will share more about each of our board members so residents can get to know the team serving Building 33.

We encourage all residents to attend and stay involved.

Tobias Garcia

Stay Vigilant: Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475.

Email: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-320-0844. Priestin-charge: Fr. Simeon Johnson, cell phone: 917-227-4303.

In-person worship service for the Last Sunday after the Epiphany will be conducted at the church on Sunday, February 15, 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 2026 are now available. Please collect, complete, and return yours to the church as soon as possible. We know that you want to help your church and it is on these cards that you tell us about your talents, areas of interest, and expertise.

Events and Fundraising Activities

Sunday, February 15: Annual General Meeting immediately following service.

Sunday, February 22: We will celebrate Black History Month. If you can, it would be appropriate for you to wear your African Outfit.

Saturday March 21: Circle of Prayers to be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Church.

Saturday March 28: Cake Sale. 12 p.m. until sold out.

(Please mark your calendar now)

Saturday, May 30: St. Joseph’s Day Luncheon at the Eastwood Manor, 3371 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY 10469. Cocktail Hour, 12-1 p.m. Luncheon from 1-5 p.m. Adults, $150; Children 12 and under, $60. Tickets for the luncheon as well as the usual raffle tickets are now available. For more information, please contact Valrie at 347-200-5850.

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

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

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

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

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

Grace and Peace!

—Tanya Blanchette

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle

177 Dreiser Loop, second floor, Rm. 2.

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

This Sunday is the Second Sunday before Lent. It is a day of devotion to the Holy Spirit, our sanctifier. To be sanctified is to be made holy and set apart from the world. When we let the Holy Spirit into our lives, the gifts of the spirit we receive are made evident by the fruits that are produced from them. We are given the strength to follow the commandments given to us by Jesus: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy strength; this is the first commandment, and the second is like unto it, namely this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:30,31)

Second Sunday before Lent, February 15

• 11 a.m., Communion Service

• Fellowship with light refreshments following the service

Bible Lessons:

• 1 Corinthians 12:1,4-11

• Mark 12:28-34

Prayer: “O God the Holy Ghost, we pray thee to direct, sanctify and govern both our hearts and minds in the ways of thy laws and in the works of thy commandments: that through thy most mighty protection, both here and ever, we may be pure in body and in soul; through Christ our Lord, who with thee and the Father liveth and reigneth forever. Amen.”

—Rev. Dorian Miceli

Greater Love Refuge Ministries

“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14

Spiritual Food for Thought: Spend quality time in God’s presence. The days have been hectic and unpredictable, but you can seek peace and pursue it. Forgive yourself for your shortcomings and move forward with new hope and expectations. Be led by God’s Spirit.

Today, February 14, is our Valentine’s Day open house event for the Coop City Community. Come out of the cold and mingle with the Greater Love family; even if it’s just for a few minutes. Free refreshments (a selection of hearty soups, sandwiches, salad & dessert) will be provided and a special Valentine’s Day token of appreciation will be given to all attendees who fellowship with us. A special feature movie presentation in honor of Black History Month will be shown at 2 p.m. Intercessors will be available to pray for you. We hope to see you there!

Greater Love Refuge Ministries, Inc., is a non-denominational, multi-generational, teaching, preaching, faith and Bible-way Ministry with a ‘Bapticostal’ flavor, under the leadership of Bishop Boyce Landrum. Morning worship begins at 11:30 a.m., on Sunday morning. Greater Love is conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd. (Bldg. 2A – ground floor), Bronx, NY 10475. Our telephone number is 347-920-5607. For more information about Greater Love, visit our website at greaterloverefugeministries.org

Are you or someone you know in need of prayer? We invite you to join our weekly Prayer Line every Wednesday afternoon at 12:30-1 p.m., and Thursday from 8-9 p.m. You are welcome to listen quietly, bring a testimony of praise, a Scripture reading, a song or a specific prayer request. Presiding Elder Carol Landrum hosts a weekly Command Your Week devotional and prayer (listen only mode) on Monday mornings from 6-6:30 a.m. You are invited to participate in any of the sessions by calling the prayer line at 351-999-3024. As a general courtesy, please mute your phone upon entry and when not speaking. Women’s Monthly Bible study with Minister Alecia Benjamin will be held on Wednesday, February 18, from 7:30-9 p.m., on Zoom (MTG. Number 590 697 1593; Tel: 1.929.205.6099). This class is open to everyone, regardless of your church affiliation.

We are still accepting donations of non-perishable food items for our “Joseph Storehouse” (formerly the Two Fish and Five Loaves Food pantry). Donations can be dropped at the church.

Grace & Peace,

—Presiding Elder Carol Landrum

IMPORTANT!

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

Co-op City Baptist Church

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

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 660065#.

The First Lady’s Ministry will be celebrating their 30th Anniversary tomorrow Sunday, February 15, at the 11 a.m. service. Our very own pastor, Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams, will deliver the message. All are welcome.

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

Saints with Dirty Feet

One of the greatest problems in the church is religious independent contractors. They want to be self-employed when it comes to church. There is little accountability and they spread out among several pastors so they also avoid responsibility. They have their own protocols.

John 13: 3-10 “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power,and that he had come from Godand was returning to God;so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, ‘Lord, are you going to wash my feet?’ Jesus replied,‘You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.’‘No,’ said Peter, ‘you shall never wash my feet.’ Jesus answered, ‘Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.’ ‘Then, Lord,’ Simon Peter replied, ‘not just

vice is at 7: 30 p.m. Both are on the church conference call line.

Our Sunday School Black History Service will be celebrated on Sunday, February 22, at 11 a.m. The guest preacher will be Rev. Diane Simmons, co-pastor of Lifeline Ministries, Bronx, NY. Kindly wear your Afro-centric attire. Everyone is invited to join us.

Our next Food Giveaway will be distributed on Friday, February 27, from 2-5 p.m. at 135 Einstein Loop. Please remember to bring your own bag and perhaps a cart. Some products can be heavy. Everyone is welcome.

March is Women’s History Month. The First Lady’s Ministry presents, “HerStory,” on Saturday, March 14, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church. The guest speaker will be Rev. Dr. Lois Giles, pastor of Seven Light Baptist Church, Bronx, NY. The theme this year is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” Donation: Adults, $20; Youth and Young Adults, $5. For further information, please call the church at 718-320-3774. Everyone is invited.

“GOD is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible Study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry.

Marilyn C. Williams

Circle of Christ Church

Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

my feet but my hands and my head as well!’ Jesus answered, ‘Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean,though not every one of you’.”

Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross gives us full communion with God. We have been bathed with his goodness, righteousness, and holiness. We can’t always live up to his standards because walking through life dirties our feet. We gather for cleansing and renewal every week.

Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together,as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Every Sunday service is a foot washing service. We are uplifted and renewed by collective worship. The preaching of the Word corrects and inspires us. The repentance and prayer at the altar strengthens us. We are consecrated for further service every Sunday! There is safety, encouragement, and fel-

lowship as we gather together to worship. None of us has the right to remove ourselves from God’s house. Each member is necessary and important. Let’s make a habit of strengthening each other to do God’s work.

Schedule (147 Dreiser Loop)

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

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

Tuesday – Prayer at 10 a.m.

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

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

Friday – Youth Service, 5:30-8:30 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.

Co-op City United Methodist Church/IEMU de Co-op City

Open Doors, Open Hearts, and Open Minds.

Come and Visit Us – We are a multi-ethnic and bilingual, Bible-centered congregation with spirit-filled worship. Services are held in-person at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across from Building 30. Parking is available. You can also participate with us via Zoom (904 4685745) or Facebook Live (UMC Coop City). Pastor, Rev. Sara Girón- Ortiz.

“Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” —Matthew 22:37–39 (NIV)

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, our attention is usually focused on romantic love and gifts. But Jesus invites us into something far deeper and far more transformative. In Matthew 22, He names love as the foundation of the entire Christian life: love for God, love for neighbor, and—often forgotten—love for ourselves.

Many of us embrace the first two easily. We strive to love God wholeheartedly and to care for others with compassion. Yet Jesus assumes something important: we cannot love our neighbor well if we do not also honor the sacred worth God has placed within us. “Love your neighbor as yourself” is not permission for selfishness; it is a reminder that we, too, are God’s beloved creation.

Loving ourselves begins with seeing ourselves the way God sees us—formed in His image, redeemed through Christ, and continually shaped by His Spirit. When we neglect our own spiritual, emotional, or physical wellbeing, we are not practicing humility; we are diminishing the very handiwork of God.

Scripture offers practical ways to love ourselves and others in healthy, Christcentered ways:

Rest in God’s Love. Spend time in prayer and Scripture, allowing His truth— not comparison, fear, or shame—to define your identity (Psalm 139:14).

Practice grace. Forgive and treat yourself and others with Christ-like compassion and grace. (Ephesians 4:32).

Care for your body and mind. Rest, nourish, and steward your health as an act of worship (1 Corinthians 6:19–20).

Serve from overflow, not exhaustion. Jesus Himself withdrew to pray and rest; loving others does not mean abandoning your own needs (Mark 1:35).

Pour out love. Find someone who is lonely, forgotten, or hard to love, and show them the love of Christ with actions. (John 15:13)

On this Valentine’s Day and beyond, let God’s love be your foundation to love

yourself fully. And from that place of fullness, renew your commitment to walk in love— towards God, yourself, and others.

Blessed Valentine’s Day!

Come And Receive A Blessing:All Are Welcome!

Bible Study on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Via Zoom: 904-468-5745. Book: Ezra Thursdays: Pantry and in-person Prayer Meeting at 11 a.m. Upcoming Events – Save The Dates.

Sunday, February 15 – English Service at 11:15 a.m.

Escuela Dominical at 11:15 a.m. Servicio en Español at 12:3 p.m.

February 18 – Ash Wednesday Service at 11 a.m.

February 19 – HIV Workshop and Kit distribution at 12 p.m.

—G. Abadia Crossword

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

Bartow OAC Annual BHM Arts & Crafts Exhibition on Feb. 21, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 31. Free admission.

Bartow OAC Shopping Trips – BJs: 2/13, $6.

Stew Leonard’s: 2/18, $6. Ikea (NJ): 2/19, $12. Walmart: 2/24, $12. ShopRite (Pelham): 2/25, $6. Costco: 2/27, $6.

Walk Group at NORC office every Tues. at 10 a.m.

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.

Dreiser OAC: Spirit of New York “White Party” Cruise on Wed., July 15. Tickets are $145; deposit of $50 is due by March 2 and final payment is due by June 1. Pay only at Dreiser OAC in Rm. 7. Pick up available at all three centers.

JASA provides comprehensive emotional well-

ness support for older adults ages 60+ residing in Coop City. Our services include individual, family, and group therapy, as well as medication management, delivered both in person and via telehealth. We offer on-site care at the NORC office, Einstein office and within the OACs.

Free Tax Preparation for seniors in the JASA NORC office, 2049 Bartow Ave., starting 2/2/26. Income limit up to $66,000. Mondays only from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call: 718- 320-2066 for an appt.

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

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

Line Dance with Bartow Swingers – Wed. & Fri., 12-1 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop, Aud. A. Notary JASA NORC Office – Weds. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for an appt.

Notary Dreiser OAC – Tues., 12 -3 p.m., Rm. 7. Call 718-320-1345 for an appt.

Beware of Telephone Scammers

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

Walk w/Odessa (On Winter Break)

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/Damien, 10-11:15 a.m.

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

Knitting/Crocheting w/Lynne & Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Card Games w/Frankie, 3:304:30 p.m.

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

Trip: Lunch at Jacob’s Pickles

Mindful Mornings Tai-Chi, 9-10 a.m.

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

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

CLOSED In Recognition of Presidents’ Day

Weekend Recap Discussion, 9-10 a.m.

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

Movies w/Dennis: “Sarah’s Oil,” 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. Bingo, 1-2 p.m.

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

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

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

Board Games, 1-2 p.m.

Computers & Smart Phones w/ Pastor Mike, 10-11 a.m.

Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Salsa Dance w/George, 11 a.m.12 p.m.

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

Crochet & Knitting w/Sarah, 2-4 p.m.

CLOSED In Recognition of Presidents’ Day

Stay Well Exercise w/Denise, 10-11 a.m., Aud. C Piano Sing Along Class, 11 a.m.12 p.m., Rm.2 (twice a month)

Trip: Walmart (Valley Stream, NY)10 a.m.4 p.m.

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Art w/Gerry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 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, 6:307:30 p.m. (virtual)

Current Events, 9-10 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damien, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Technology Class w/Steve, 1:152:15 p.m.

Drama Club w/ Amelia, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Rm.2

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

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

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

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

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

CLOSED

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: No Dinner Served

In Recognition of Presidents’ Day

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 Cakes. Spaghetti Sauteed String Beans, Tangerine; NON-KOSHER: BBQ Chicken, Baked Macaroni & Cheese, Steamed Cabbage, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: (Plant Based) Eggplant Chick Pea Tagine, Egg Barley, Vegetable Mix; NON-KOSHER: (Plant Based) No Cheese Spring Vegetable Lasagna, Sauteed Green Beans w/Onions

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Dairy-Free Baked Ziti w/Beef, Capri Blend Vegetables, Apple; NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Roast Pork, White Rice, California Blend Vegetable, Orange

LUNCH : KOSHER: Dairy-Free Baked Ziti w/ Beef Capri, Blend Vegetables; NONKOSHER: Baked Fish w/Mushroom & Peppers, Cous Cous, Cauliflower w/Carrots & Parsley

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER : Baked Chicken, Apple Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini, Kiwi; NONKOSHER:Vegetable Lasagna, Sauteed String Beans, Pear

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

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

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

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

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

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley

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

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

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

Intergenerational Arts & Crafts w/Denise, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Salsa with Rasheem, 10 a.m.11 a.m., Dreiser, 2nd floor Word Games, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

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

Trip: The Shabazz Center, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Health & Wellness “The Power of Self Care for Mental Well Being,”11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1-2 p.m.

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

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

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.

LUNCH : KOSHER: Baked Chicken Quarters, Apple Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini; NON-KOSHER: Grilled Caribbean Chicken Breast Pasta Salad, Cabbage, Carrots Slaw

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

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

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

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

Menu fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. ALL meals served with margarine and fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice. For information, please call: (718) 320-2066. Schedule subject to change without notice.

Payments for trips can be made where noted, Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 2-4 p.m. only.

Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation

Must be 60 or older to become a JASA participant.

KOSHER: Moroccan Eggplant & Chick Pea Stew, Egg Barley, Steamed Mixed Vegetables, Peach

NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish w/Mushroom & Peppers, Cous Cous, Cauliflower w/Carrots, Banana

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

KOSHER: Salmon in Ginger and Lime Sauce, White Rice, Steamed Mixed Vegetables, Apple. NON-KOSHER: Caesar Salad w/Grilled Chicken, Basic Pasta Salad, Plum

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15

Mateo 11:28: “Venid a mí todos los que estáis cansados...y te daré descanso.”

Paz de Dios sea con ustedes.

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 les hace una cordial invitación a la comunidad hispana a congregarse con nosotros.

Si buscas una iglesia para adorar a nuestro Señor y Salvador, si te sientes solo, herido, deprimido, si necesitas liberación, nuestras puertas están abiertas para recibirte. Jesús está dispuesto y puede liberarte y sanarte. Al seguir a Jesús, nos liberamos del control del pecado y nos volvemos verdaderamente libres para vivir una vida de rectitud.

Isaías 41:10: “No temas, porque yo estoy contigo; no desmayes, porque yo soy tu Dios que te fortalezco; siempre te ayudaré; siempre te sustentaré con la diestra de mi justicia.”

Esperamos verlos a todos los domingos en la Iglesia, ubicada en 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, 2do piso, sala 33 y en nuestra página de Facebook (Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15).

Servicios Ofrecidos

Lunes: Estudios Bíblicos telefónico Español, 8 p.m. (564-888-5521; Código: 696248)

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

Jueves: Estudios Bíblicos telefónico, 8 p.m. (564-888-5521; Código: 696248)

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

La Santa Cena es el 1er Domingo del mes.

Que Dios los bendiga y recuerda que Cristo te ama.

Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all who are weary...and I will give you rest.”

May the peace of the Lord be with you all.

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 cordially invites the Hispanic community to come gather and worship with us.

If you are looking for a church to worship our Lord and Savior, if you feel alone, wounded, depressed, if you need liberation, our doors are open to receive you. Jesus is willing and able to free you and heal you. By becoming a follower of Jesus, one is freed from the control of sin and becomes truly free to live a life of righteousness.

Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

We hope to see you on Sundays. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, 2nd floor, Rm. 33 and on our Facebook page (Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15).

Services Offered

Mondays: Bible Studies by phone, 8 p.m. (564-888-5521; Code: 696248)

Tuesdays/Fridays: Zoom Bible Studies, 8 p.m. (ID 3447367643; Code: 3jEJ2W

Thursdays: Telephone Bible Studies, 8 p.m. (564-888-5521; Code: 696248)

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

Holy Communion is the first Sunday of the month.

God bless you and remember, Jesus loves you.

Blanca Santana

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

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

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

General Information: The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place, in the rear lobby of 27B. It is on the ground floor and is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone #: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message.The synagogue has a Facebook page, “Traditional Synagogue.”

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by10 a.m. so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, February 14, at 6:22 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, February 20, at 5:17 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 Birthdayto Debbie Schwartz and allour members who will be celebrating their birthday in February. 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

Community Protestant Church

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

Worship Schedule

In-person Sunday Morning Worship at 11 a.m.; Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. Every Wednesday – “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer” at 12 p.m. on the Conference Call Line: 712-432-3900; Access code: 343284#. Every Wednesday – 7 p.m. Bible Study online via Zoom. Log in on Zoom. com or dial One Tap Mobile: (646) 931-3860 or (929) 205-6099; Meeting ID: 837 7258 6522.

Save The Date

Wednesday, February 18, at 6 p.m. – Ash Wednesday Service Saturday, March 28, 10:30 a.m. – Prayer and Praise Brunch. Ticket: $40. Hosted by the Shepherd’s Ministry; Rev. Jessica Freeman, preacher. The Year of Jubilee

Sunday, November 1 – Opening Anniversary Services at 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 8 – Closing Anniversary Services at 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

“A 50th Jubilee Celebration of Pastoral Leadership.” The Community Protestant Church family is proud to announce Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens is celebrating his 60th year in ministry and his 50th year as our pastor! We are so excited and we’re calling this milestone, “The Year of Jubilee.” We invite you to be our special guest at one or all of the upcoming services and events planned in his honor.

“There’s No God Like Jehovah!” The Praise Team readied the congregation for worship with song and testimony. The morning scripture, Matthew 5:1-12 and prayer was done by DIT Tyron Brown. Deacon Samuel Wilson, Jr. spoke of Gil Noble, noted television reporter and host of “Like It Is” in our Moment in Black History. Thank you, Rev. Keith J. Williams, for the word, “Don’t Give Up,” Galatians 6:9. Rev. Williams preached we must keep our faith, trust in Jesus and grow in victory every day. Amen. The spirit of God is with us, and we owe Him all the praise that He deserves! We welcome you to worship with us, hear the good news of Jesus and experience all the new possibilities at Community Protestant, a church of love and understanding. Adult Sunday School begins promptly at 9:15 a.m., and on Wednesdays, we have “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer” on the conference call line and at 6:45 p.m., we have a virtual Bible Study.

Our sincere and heartfelt condolences are extended to Rev. Edgar Howard and family on the passing of his wife, Lady Cecilia Howard. To all 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.

“So let us not become tired of doing good; for if we do not give up, the time will come when we will reap the harvest.” Galatians 6:9

Lexa M. Mingo

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