Co-op City Times 04-25-26

Fatal Bus Stop Crash

By DANIELLE CRUZ

On Tuesday, April 21, at approximately 1:30 p.m. a 72-year-old woman was fatally struck after a car crashed into a bus stop bench at the intersection of Co-op City Boulevard and Bartow Avenue.

According to officials, the crash occurred when a 55-year-old man driving northbound on Co-op City Boulevard suffered a medical episode, causing the vehicle to veer off the roadway and into the bench.

First responders arrived to find the 72-year-old woman pinned beneath the vehicle with severe injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The deceased was not a Co-op city shareholder.

A 36-year-old man who had been sitting on the bench, along with the driver of the vehicle, were transported to Jacobi Hospital in stable condition for treatment, officials said.

The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

2025 Electronic Income Affidavit Now Live!

Dear Shareholders,

Eleven Candidates to be Featured in First Election Supplement, May 2

Candidates’ Forum #1 held in Einstein

By ROZAAN BOONE

The 2026 Board election season has officially begun, and the eleven certified candidates will be introduced to shareholders in the first election supplement which will be published in the Co-op City Times next Saturday, May 2, and at the first official Candidates’ Forum scheduled for the same day.

2026 Riverbay Board of Directors Election Notice

UPCOMING CANDIDATES’ FORUMS

The May 2nd Election Supplement is the first of three consecutive issues of the newspaper dedicated to providing shareholders with structured access to candidates’ statements and campaign messaging. As in prior Board election cycles, the election supplements ensure that all certified candidates are presented fairly and uniformly, giving shareholders the opportunity to compare perspectives on the issues facing the community.

Saturday, May 2, 3:00 p.m. Forum #1 – Einstein, Rm. 45

Wednesday, May 6, 7:00 p.m. Forum#2 – Dreiser Auditorium B

Monday, May 11, 7:00 p.m. Forum#3 – Bartow, Rm. 31

On Thursday, April 16, the 2026 Election Committee certified 11 of the 12 prospective shareholders who expressed an interest in running for the Board of Directors. At the Candidates’ Orientation held on Monday, April 20, a virtual drawing was held to determine the order in which the candidates’ names will appear on the ballot. The results were:

1. Michelle Marbury

Please continue to send your Questions for the Candidates to:

2. Rod Saunders

3. Monique Coleman

4. Andrea Leslie

5. Idalia Reyes

6. Yanira D. Jaime

Riverbay2026Election@RiverbayCorp.com 718-219-2211 text/voicemail

The 2025 Electronic Income Affidavit is now available to all shareholders. The system has been upgraded to make registration and submission faster, easier, and more convenient for all shareholders.

Online FAQ and How To Video:

To learn more about the electronic income affidavit process, shareholders are encouraged to visit https://bit.ly/4aw5CeP to view:

1. An online “how to” video that walks you through the entire process, from registration to submitting your completed 2025 Income Affidavit

2. Online FAQs.

Go-Live Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026

The new registration link is available on the Riverbay portal.

What You Need to Use the Electronic Income Affidavit process

7. Aaron Carnegie

8. Lynette Wright

9. Nero Graham

10. Darnell Lopez

11. Keith Logan

(Continued on page 9)

2025 Income A davit

Due April 30

By DANIELLE CRUZ

Shareholders who have not yet submitted their 2025 Income Affidavit form are reminded that the deadline to file is Thursday, April 30.

To ensure you can complete your registration without delay, please have the following ready:

1. Your account number (also known as your TCODE)

2. A copy of the first page of your current insurance policy and NYS tax return, if applicable

3. First Name, Last Name, and email address for each household member 18 or older.

Shareholders have two options to file their 2025 Income Affidavit, either by filing out the traditional paper form, which was mailed to all cooperators required to file, or by filing an electronic form which is available on the Riverbay website at https://bit.ly/4aw5CeP.

As of Sunday, April 19, 1,648 shareholders have registered to electronically file their income affidavits and 1,067 shareholders have successfully submitted their electronic income affidavits.

A fillable pdf of the 2025 Income Affidavit form is also available on the Riverbay website. To access it, visit https://coopcity.com, click on the “Resources” tab and then select “Finance” from the drop-down menu. Instructions on how to complete the form can also be found there.

Completed 2025 Income Affidavit paper forms can be deposited into the carrying charge boxes in the community centers or delivered to the Riverbay Finance department at 2049 Bartow Avenue. The form can also be scanned along with supporting documents, including proof of homeowner’s insurance, and emailed to RiverbayFinance@riverbaycorp.com.

Paper income affidavits can also be submitted by mail to the following address: Riverbay Corporation, Finance Department, Attention: 2025 Income Affidavit, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

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Income Affidavit

from page 1)

All paper income affidavits must be notarized. JASA also offers notary services on Wednesdays and Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shareholders can call 718-320-2066 to set up an appointment at the JASA NORC office at the Bartow Center and 718-320-1345 to set up an appointment at the JASA Dreiser OAC office.

Shareholders opting to file their 2025 Income Affidavit electronically can familiarize themselves with the process by watching an instructional “How To” video and reading the Frequently Asked Questions guide on the Riverbay website at https://bit.ly/4aw5CeP.

To register to receive an electronic version of the 2025 Income Affidavit form, shareholders will need to have their T-code ready. The T-code is your account number found at the upper right-hand corner of your monthly carrying charge statement. Shareholders will be required to identify their building and apartment. The system will cross check account numbers with building and apartment numbers and inaccuracies will be flagged for the shareholder to correct before being allowed to move forward with the process.

Once the shareholder has registered, they will then receive an email from DocuSign to verify their ID. This step replaces the notary requirement needed to file the paper income affidavit. Shareholders will be required to go through a “knowledge based” ID verification process to securely verify their identity prior to accessing the Income Affidavit electronic form.

While filing out the electronic form, shareholders will also have to upload their proof of insurance. To upload the insurance document, shareholders should click the paper clip icon located at the bottom left-hand side of the screen. After, click “upload a file” and then select the files to be uploaded and click “open.” Once the document is uploaded, click “done” to complete the file upload.

Questions about the electronic filing process can be sent to incomeaffidavit@riverbaycorp.com and questions about the paper filing process can be sent to RiverbayFinance@riverbaycorp.com. Any questions regarding the insurance documentation should be addressed to the Risk Management department at 718-320-3300, Ext. 3388.

Failure to complete and return the 2025 Income Affidavit form by April 30 will result in the maximum surcharge of 50% of your base carrying charges. You would then be required to pay the 50% surcharge for each month you don’t file.

NYC DOT Urges Drivers to Slow Down in Work Zones as Construction Season Begins

New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Mike Flynn this week urged drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones as construction activity ramps up citywide, marking National Work Zone Awareness Week from April 20–24. The annual campaign highlights the critical importance of protecting the crews who build, repair, and maintain the city’s streets, bridges, and highways. This year’s national theme is “Safe Actions, Save Lives.”

NYC DOT was joined by representatives from the NYC Department of Design and Construction, the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, the New York State Department of Transportation, National Grid, and other partners at an active work site along Ninth Avenue in Hell’s Kitchen, where the agency is redesigning the corridor from 50th to 34th Streets to expand pedestrian space and widen the protected bike lane.

“This winter’s harsh conditions underscored just how essential our work crews are to keeping New York City moving,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn. “Across the five boroughs, crews are out there every day—often just feet from moving traffic—repairing and improving our streets. We’re asking every driver to slow down, stay alert, and give these workers the space they need to do their jobs safely.”

Work zone safety remains a serious concern nationwide. Each year, more than 900 people are killed and an estimated 42,000 are injured in work zone-related incidents across the United States. In New York City, NYC DOT recorded 16 work zone intrusions last year, resulting in six injuries. Since 2009, 63 NYC DOT workers have been injured in work zone incidents, and four have died from work zone-related events over the past two decades.

NYC DOT continues to invest in protecting its workforce through comprehensive training and enhanced safety practices. Agency crews receive work zone safety training through the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) and E-PRO Safety Solutions, alongside ongoing job site safety assessments. NYC DOT has also upgraded fleet equipment with features such as back-up cameras and retro-reflective markings to improve visibility and reduce risk.

As construction projects accelerate in the months ahead, NYC DOT is reminding all New Yorkers that safe driving in work zones saves lives. Drivers should reduce speed, avoid distractions, and follow posted signage when approaching active work areas. (Continued on page 5)

COMBING

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

45th Pct. Community Council Meeting in Co-op City

The next meeting of the 45th Pct. Community Council will take place on Tuesday, May 7, 7 p.m. in Rm. 31, Bartow Center. Please make every effort to attend.

Next CB #10 Board/ Public Hearing in Co-op City

Community Board #10’s monthly General Board/Public Hearing will take place at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Room 31, on Thursday, May 21, at 7 p.m.

This meeting will be highlighted by a public hearing on the McDonald’s at 2010 Bartow Avenue. The restaurant will undergo a full reconstruction to modernize the dining experience as well as re-construct its drivethrough.

McDonald’s is seeking CB #10’s advisory approval as part of its application before the City of New York Board of Standards and Appeals. The restaurant will still have over 30 seats for dining. The drive-through will accommodate 11 vehicles in its queue. There will still be 10 parking spaces in front of the restaurant.

Please note that this is standard procedure for any restaurant or bank that has a drivethrough. Normally, they all need the advisement of their local community board. For additional information, please contact CB #10 at (718) 892-1161 or email bx10@cb.nyc.gov.

Photo of the Week

Want to showcase your talents? See any cool sights around the community? The Co-op City Times is looking for submissions to our new “Photo of the Week” feature!

To submit your photo, email cctimes@riverbaycorp.com with the subject line “Photo of the Week.” Photos (one photo per submission; must be a JPEG file), and accompanied by a short, 1-2 sentence caption.

2nd Front Page Co-op City Times

NYC City Council Releases Transparency Tool

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New York is improving the transparency between the City Council and its residents with a new online tool announced in March.

The new tool, called the Finance Dashboard, is a public resource that provides New Yorkers with more information about how the city is managing its budget in a format that is easier to digest. There are two dashboards in total, one that details the City’s budgeted expenses from the 2021 to 2027 fiscal years and one that details revenue from the 2022 to 2027 fiscal years. To access and view the dashboards, visit tinyurl.com/pdtdrsff.

On the expenses dashboard, individuals can see a breakdown of how those expenses changed at each step in the budget cycle from preliminary to the adopted versions. New Yorkers can also see the exact dollar amounts allotted for each city department or agency, even down to the budgets for local Community Boards. Both the expenses and revenue dashboards utilize pie charts to easily break down where

the city is spending the most and what sources of revenue are critical.

Looking at the Fiscal Year 2027 preliminary City Budget, education had the largest slice at just under 31% or roughly $38.5 billion. The second largest slice of the pie belonged to pensions, debt services and fringe benefits at approximately 24% or $30.6 billion. Social services had the third largest slice at 22.1% or about $27.5 billion. Public safety accounted for just under 10% of the pie with a projected budget of $12.1 billion. Infrastructure rounded out the top five with a projected 7.1% of the overall budget or $8.8 billion.

New York City’s projected revenue for the 2027 Fiscal Year showed that just about 42% of that total revenue will come from property taxes, roughly equating to $35 billion. Second on the list was revenue from personal income tax, which accounted for a projected 24% of the total revenue or a little over $20 billion. Revenue from sales tax was the third largest slice representing just under 13% of the projected revenue or

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Take the MTA Customers Count Survey Today

By BRANDON ORTIZ

New Yorkers can voice their opinion about their experience using MTA subways, buses, commuter rails or Access-A-Ride by completing the Spring 2026 Customers Count Survey.

This survey is available online at tinyurl.com/y5w2xmd5 through Sunday, May 3, and the MTA will use the information to direct its efforts to improve the experiences for riders. Anyone who has utilized an MTA subway, local bus, express bus, LIRR train or Metro-North train within the last six months is encouraged to fill out the survey. The survey begins by asking the respondent to select which of the five services they have used in the last half year before continuing to more specific questions related to overall service reliability, safety and cleanliness. Respondents use numbers to rate their satisfaction with various aspects of bus or train service, and have opportunities in the survey to expand more on why they selected certain numbers.

For Access-A-Ride users, there is a separate online survey specifically for that service, which can be completed by visiting tinyurl.com/24rwy287. This survey uses a sim-

ilar structure of rating satisfaction with numbers, albeit with questions specifically centered on the Access-A-Ride experience.

MTA Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara underscored the importance of the Customers Count Survey and its impact on shaping policies.

“The Customers Count Survey directly impacts how the MTA makes investments and improvements in the system. We serve a vast and diverse region, and every response strengthens our decision-making,” Ms. Rieara said on April 13.

Over 92,000 riders participated in the Fall 2025 Customers Count Survey, where the MTA reported that 62% of respondents said they were satisfied overall with their train or bus service. According to the MTA, the Fall 2025 satisfaction percentage was 5% higher than the one recorded in the Spring 2025 Customers Count Survey. Over half of respondents in the Fall 2025 survey also reported feeling safe on trains, specifically 63%. Locally, the Bronx surpassed 50% satisfaction across key service metrics such

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Co-op City Cancer Study Featured at NYC RING/ICTR Convocation

On Tuesday, April 14, members of the Co-op City Cancer Risk Pilot Study contingent participated in the NYC RING Community Engagement Convocation, held from 2 to 8 p.m. at Montefiore Moses Campus in the Arnsten Grand Hall’s Cherkasky Auditorium.

nerships in community-focused healthcare initiatives. Representing the Co-op City Cancer Risk Pilot Study were shareholders Linda Collins and Vivian Burrus, along with shareholder Robert Gray, who attended on

The convocation was hosted by NYC RING and the ICTR’s Community Collaborative Core, and brought together Montefiore-Einstein faculty, clinicians, students, and community-based partners to help foster collaboration and emphasize the importance of community engagement and primary care research. Attendees were able to participate in an evening of networking opportunities, forums, poster sessions, and a keynote presentation, all aimed at sharing knowledge and strengthening part-

Poster showing relevant information on the Co-op City Cancer Research Study.

behalf of Assemblymember Michael Benedetto. Also in attendance were Dr. Alyson B. Moadel-Robblee and Dr. H. Dean Hosgood, researchers from the Montefiore-Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center who are working with the Co-op City group to help guide the study.

roughly $11 billion. Then, general corporation and unincorporated business taxes rounded out the top five with 8.6% and 4.5%, respectively, of the total projected revenue, combining for a total of just under $11 billion.

When describing the reasoning for releasing the online tools, NYC City Council Speaker Julie Menin emphasized the need to improve the transparency of city finances.

“Transparency is the foundation of trust in government. With the launch of this first-of-its-kind Finance Dashboard, we are giving New Yorkers the tools to see, understand, and engage with how public dollars are allocated. This is about more than data—it’s about equity, accountability, and ensuring every community has visibility into the decisions that shape their lives,” Speaker Menin said last month.

Both dashboards will continue to be updated with each future Financial Plan, and in the next few months, the dashboard will also include fiscal years prior to 2021.

Help NYC Sanitation Catch Illegal Dumpers & Be Eligible for a Financial Reward

With illegal dumping summonses up more than 20% in the last fiscal year, the Department of Sanitation reminds New Yorkers they can receive a significant bounty for helping the Department catch criminals who dump on our neighborhoods.

“Too often, crooked contractors steal our public space by dumping materials in streets, lots and sidewalks that they perceive to be out of the way,” said Acting New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Javier Lojan. “We are catching more and more of these criminals with in-person surveillance and an expanded network of hidden cameras — and we also welcome assistance from the everyday New Yorkers who know these neighborhoods best. Provide us valuable information to catch these criminals, and you could be eligible for half the $4,000 fine.”

DSNY has two bounty programs that provide awards to people who witness and report illegal dumping:

• Illegal Dumping Award Program: Complete an affidavit and/or submit a video after witnessing illegal dumping. When the lawbreaker is fined, the witness is eligible for 50% of the fine that the City collects. If the lawbreaker challenges the ticket at the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH) hearing, the witness must attend. Videos can be emailed to IllegalDumpingTips@dsny.nyc.gov.

• Illegal Dumping Tip Program: Anyone who tips off the City – so that we can catch an illegal dumper in the act – is eligible for a reward of up to 50% of the fine collected. The tipster’s identity remains confidential – so he or she won’t have to appear at a hearing.

Note that illegal dumping is distinct from littering, as it refers specifically to dumping from a vehicle. If you witness illegal dumping, a video of the dumping taking place is most helpful to the Department, with a clear picture of the license plate. Do not approach or engage with the dumpers.

Those caught dumping materials on our neighborhoods have their vehicles impounded, and face summonses that begin at $4,000, plus the cost of cleaning.

In the last three years, DSNY deployed a network of more than 300 hidden cameras to catch illegal dumpers. In Fiscal Year 2025, the Department issued 21% more summonses for illegal dumping than the previous fiscal year, for a total of 872, and impounded 417 illegal dumping vehicles, a 46% increase over Fiscal Year 2024.

The Department has cleaned at least one million pounds of material left by illegal dumpers in the last year and the total may be two to three times that. DSNY needs New Yorker’s help to stop this criminal theft of public space.

City Hosts Helmet and Bike Light Giveaways in the Bronxs

By ALICE MORENO

With the Springtime season starting, more people are opting for outdoor activities, such as bike riding. NYC Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, alongside the New York Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Mike Flynn, will offer New Yorkers free bicycle helmets and lights for people of all ages from April to June throughout the five boroughs. Each helmet will be fitted on each person, to ensure the right fit.

“A safe bike ride is a good bike ride,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Safe cycling starts with the right gear, like a well-fit helmet and bike light, and I’m excited to partner with elected officials across New York City to make sure cyclists of all ages have the tools and knowledge they need to move safely through our streets.”

In the Bronx, the giveaways will be held on the following dates:

• Bike helmet: May 17, 11 a.m.- 3 p.m., at Spuyten Duyvil Playground

• Bike light: May 4, 4 p.m.-7 p.m., at Willis Avenue Bridge bike path & East 135th Street

• Bike light: May 8, 4 p.m.-7 p.m., at 2063 University Avenue (across from Bronx Community College)

Bicycle safety is important to consider. Here are some tips to keep you and your child safe while riding:

• Wear the proper gear, such as helmets.

• Stay focused and alert: pay attention to vehicles, especially when turning on the street.

• Avoid distractions, such as headphones, texting, or phone calls.

• Check your tires for air before riding.

• Make sure that your bike has a white headlight and red taillight – they are required by law!

• When riding at night, wear something reflective.

• Never ride against traffic.

MTA Customer Survey ––––– (Continued from page 3)

as reliability, wait times, delays and cleanliness for the first time in the survey’s history. As for Access-A-Ride customers, the MTA reported that 77% of respondents reported satisfaction with their experience utilizing the service.

As a reminder, MTA Officials launched an updated mobile app for riders on March 25. To download this revamped app for free, visit either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Starting with the improvements to real-time tracking of subway trains, the new app provides even more accurate updates on subway arrival times, subway locations, detailed information on stations with multiple trains running on different levels, as well as potential service changes impacting specific lines. Users can also expect the app to provide live arrival times for both subway-to-subway and subway-to-bus transfers.

App updates also improve real-time bus service information with more accurate and frequent arrival times and current bus locations. Bus riders can now also view the latest arrival times for all buses at a particular stop, trip-level views for favorited bus routes plus live arrival times for transferring from a bus to another bus or from a bus to a subway line.

Equally important to the functional updates, the MTA also made an effort to improve the accessibility features of the app. There is now an accessibility mode in the app that highlights subway stations with accessibility accommodations, provides elevator and escalator status at stations and offers support for screen-readers and font enlarging. Access-A-Ride users can also use the new app to book and manage trips.

Co-op City shareholders are homeowners, not tenants. Participate in community-related activities!

Parking within 15’ of a fire hydrant in NYC is illegal, and carries a fine of $115. There is no permit which allows parking in a “No Standing” or Fire zone.

DOT –––––

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“DDC’s Division of Safety and Site Support plays a vital role in keeping construction sites safe for staff and people traveling near it, ensuring all work is done correctly and carefully,” said NYC Department of Design and Construction Acting Commissioner Eduardo del Valle. “In 2025, the team completed 3,156 site audits and inspections across all DDC projects. Construction safety is of utmost priority at DDC, and we do our best to keep workers and the public safe, but we also need help from drivers. Drivers should remain fully aware when driving around construction sites; slow down, stay alert and follow warning signs to prevent injuries or fatalities. I thank our partners at DOT, DEP and the private utilities for their shared commitment to work zone safety.”

“There is nothing more important than the safety and well-being of our workforce – our team members. For those of us at the State Department of Transportation, National Work Zone Awareness Week has a special significance,” said New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez. “It comes just weeks away from the one-year anniversary of the line-of-duty death of NYSDOT Highway Maintenance Supervisor Robert Bornt. Robert was a pillar of his community and deserved to go home to his family at the end of his workday. Instead, last May, he was fatally struck by a car while in a work zone. This past September in New York City, Isabel Alvarez, a contractor employee on NYSDOT’s Van Wyck Expressway project, was also fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver while directing traffic. Robert and Isabel were doing their jobs in service to the safety of the traveling public. That is why NYSDOT is committed to doing everything we can to keep all of our highway, bridge and transportation workers safe and it is why we are so very grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul for her indefatigable commitment to the safety of our workforce through enhanced protections against work zone intrusions, accountability and enforcement. I implore the traveling public to take great care and pay attention when driving, especially in work zones – lives are at risk. Our crews will be out there every day - keeping you safe. Please do your part to keep them safe.”

For information about work zone safety, Vision Zero and other efforts, visit nyc.gov/dot or nyc.gov/visionzero.

Report from the 2026 Riverbay Board Election Committee

Every day it’s a-getting closer, going faster than a roller coaster. And that’s exactly how it should feel at this point in time in the Year of the Quick Quorum. By now, the candidates have read and re-read the rules: the relaxed, less restrictive, 2026 Election Rules and Regulations. And now, it’s almost all systems go time – except for the exceptions.

The rules were relaxed to encourage freer interaction between Candidates and Cooperators, but it’s certainly not the Wild West in the East Bronx this year!

Candidates and their supporters may NOT attach their literature anywhere they feel like, and absolutely no stickers on anything on or off the property, please. Electronics and noise restrictions are still in place. But except for the Building and Section Association Rooms, feel free to meet your neighbors anywhere you’d like – indoors.

Outdoors is fair game as well, but again, with some limitations. If you hire a marching band, you’ve got to invite your fellow candidates to participate in your parade. The precise wording of the New Rules will be revealed in the May 2nd CCTimes issue, but the substance of Election R&Rs 2026 hasn’t changed since the Board’s March 26th stamp of approval.

For outdoor rallies on Co-op City property, as long as all the candidates are advised of the event and the well-advertised event follows existing corporation rules for use of our outdoor spaces, the sky’s the limit for our grounds.

The candidates are preparing their articles for the Co-op City Times and preparing themselves for the first of the upcoming Forums. Both debut on Saturday, May 2nd.

Get your first look at all the candidates – in print – and then meet them face-to-face later that Saturday afternoon, May 2, in the Einstein Community Center, Rm. 45, at 3:00 p.m.

All three Forums will take place in early May, where the candidates will be questioned and assessed by the community – but only if you continue to send your questions to Riverbay2026Election@ RiverbayCorp.com, or leave a voicemail or text by calling 718-2192211.

Again, that’s Einstein (5/2 at 3 p.m.), Dreiser (5/6 at 7 p.m.), and Bartow (5/11 at 7 p.m.)

And get ready to be recruited, because Operation Quick Quorum will be here before we know it.

—Mary Pearson Chair, 2026 Election Committee

– • Letters to the Editor • –

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

Thank You

To the Editor:

I would like to send my gratitude to the staff of the Grounds department in Section Five for the work that is being done to keep our community clean and green. I am thankful for the dedicated employees with a work ethic that is second to none. We are grateful for the work they do in Section Five. If you have a department that you would like highlight, please do so. A kind word and acknowledgement go a long way. Through the challenges of

more dogs in our community, the Grounds department is doing the best they can. Shareholders, please respect our shared public spaces. The tranquility of silence, chirping birds, and the visuals of green grass, beautiful, and colorful flowers and trees enhance our quality of life. This community has so much to offer. Please show how much you care; we can be better. Please keep our community clean.

—Ruth Sharma

eBikes and eScooters Are Prohibited in Co-op City Buildings and Community Centers

By DANIELLE CRUZ

According to the FDNY, lithium-ion batteries were responsible for 277 fires and six deaths in 2024. Many of these fires began when devices were left charging overnight, allowing batteries to overheat. These fires can be difficult to contain, spread rapidly, and in some cases reignite hours or even days later. Because of the risk, storing and charging eBikes and scooters indoors can create a potential fire hazard.

To address these concerns and the growing use of eBikes throughout the city, the Riverbay Board of Directors passed Resolution# 22-58 on November 9, 2022. This resolution, later approved by the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR), went into effect on July 24, 2023, and prohibits the storage or charging of eBikes, eScooters, and their batteries inside Co-op City residential apartments, garages, community rooms, or any other indoor common areas.

Shareholders found violating the rule face a Community Complaint fee of $1,000 and/or termination of their occupancy agreement. For each additional or subsequent violation of this rule, the Community Complaint doubles the amount of the preceding fine.

building or elevators.

CCPD Chief Andre Waring also said that he has already instructed Public Safety to be on the look out and stop any delivery worker they see entering a building with an eBike or scooter. Unattended devices left in or around the buildings will also be confiscated.

“We were fortunate this time; however, not having personnel roster the size of the NYPD, it is difficult to be everywhere, all the time,” said Chief Waring. “I will have supervisors note to the officers that should they observe a delivery person leaving an eBike unattended in and/or around the property, they are to take action and confiscate the eBike and hopefully they will refrain from the behavior.”

Notably, the resolution does make an exception for mobility devices required by individuals with permanent or temporary disabilities, which remain permitted under federal and state housing protections.

The resolution also applies to Riverbay employees and contractors, delivery persons and others bringing eBikes, eScooters and batteries into Co-op City buildings and storing or charging them within or near the buildings. Any individual found with one of these devices in the buildings will be asked to leave the premises and refusal will result in them being cited for trespassing.

Shareholders are also reminded that they are responsible for family and any visitor, including delivery persons, who may violate this resolution and bring a prohibited device into any building, lobby, elevator, indoor mall area, and apartment while making a delivery. If possible, shareholders are also encouraged to meet their delivery driver outside to ensure that an eBike is not brought into the

It’s important to note that lithium-ion battery fires behave differently from other household fires. Damaged or unstable batteries can enter a self-heating chain reaction that continues even when flames appear to be extinguished. These reactions release toxic gases and create intense, fast-spreading heat. Water alone is often ineffective, and in some cases can worsen the spread by causing additional short-circuiting. Traditional fire extinguishers also generally fail to stop lithium-ion fires.

At the citywide level, legislation has also been introduced to curb the dangers posed by poorly manufactured or uncertified batteries. New York City passed multiple laws last year, requiring that all eBike and eScooter batteries sold in the city meet recognized safety standards, such as those set by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). The legislation also bans the sale of reconditioned or refurbished lithium-ion batteries, which have been linked to many of the city’s most dangerous fires.

Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders also shared that the Board is looking into ways to reinforce Resolution #22-58. This week, Deputy General Manager Dwayne Scott reported that notices were distributed to local businesses about eBike safety and storage compliance expectations relative to Co-op City property. He also noted that clear signage will be installed around the campus in the future to strengthen enforcement.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 11 A, B & C

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 11 A, B & C 100, 120 & 140 Carver Loop

Current Lease Expiration Date: July 31, 2026

New 3-Year Expiration Date: July 31, 2029

Co-op City Times

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

cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Danielle Cruz Managing Editor

Brandi Simpson Junior Associate Editor

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

Nathen Valadez

New Media Producer

Sheldon Green Multi-Media Advertising Manager

Brandon Ortiz Media Assistant

Alice Moreno

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.

AG James Sues Coinbase and Gemini for Running Illegal Gambling Platforms in New York

On Tuesday, April 21, New York Attorney General Letitia James sued Coinbase Financial Markets, Inc. (Coinbase) and Gemini, Titan LLC (Gemini) for illegally running gambling operations in New York through their so-called “prediction market” platforms.

Both Coinbase and Gemini offer users the ability to bet on events, including sports, entertainment, and elections, in violation of New York laws. An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that Coinbase and Gemini are running prediction markets that constitute illegal, unlicensed gambling operations. These illegal operations expose New Yorkers – including those under the legal gambling age of 21 – to serious financial and personal risk. Attorney General James is seeking court orders requiring Coinbase and Gemini to pay fines, forfeit illegal profits, and pay restitution to customers.

“Gambling by another name is still gambling, and it is not exempt from regulation under our state laws and Constitution,” said Attorney General James. “Gemini and Coinbase’s so-called prediction markets are just illegal gambling operations, exposing young people to addictive platforms that lack the necessary guardrails. My office is taking action to protect New Yorkers and stop these platforms from violating the law.”

Coinbase and Gemini opened prediction markets available to New Yorkers over the age of 18. Prediction markets allow users to bet money on the outcome of a wide range of future events, from sports games to elections to award shows. Because the outcomes of these events are uncertain and outside the control of the bettor, or hinge on a game of chance, these prediction market platforms fit the legal definition of gambling in New York.

Coinbase and Gemini have failed to obtain a license from the New York State Gaming Commission, sidestepping their obligation to pay taxes like licensed casinos and mobile sports gambling platforms do. This tax revenue funds public schools, sports programs for underserved youth, and problem gambling education and treatment. Coinbase and Gemini’s prediction markets are also available to users between the ages of 18-20, even though New York

Notify NYC

Notify NYC is the City of New York’s official, free emergency communications program. To subscribe, text NOTIFYNYC to 692-692 to receive information about emergency alerts and important City services.

You can sign up for the following messages:

• Emergency alerts

• Planned events

• Local mass transit disruptions

• Regional mass transit disruptions

• Major traffic disruptions

• Public health notifications

• Public school notifications

• Waterbody advisories

• Emergency parking suspensions

• Beach notifications

• Ferry disruptions

Notify NYC is available citywide covering all five boroughs. You can add up to five different city addresses to your account. You also can register multiple email addresses, text message accounts, and phone numbers to receive Notify NYC messages.

Notify NYC messages are available through many formats, including email, text messages, telephone, a mobile application, the Notify NYC website, RSS, X (formerly known as Twitter), and American Sign Language videos.

Notify NYC currently offers most messages in 14 languages, including English and American Sign Language.

If you are registered to receive Notify NYC messages, you may see a caller ID with “212 NEW-YORK” or the number (212) 639-9675 on your phone.

Missing Seniors

The City of New York provides a Senior Alert system to help locate missing seniors at risk. These notifications are sent through the City’s Notify NYC system to subscribers in the borough of the missing person. The public will be asked to call in any tips to a special number. Fees

Telecommunications carriers may charge regular voice and data fees for any Notify NYC message received.

Check with your carrier for rates.

A Message from the Parking Department:

Please SLOW DOWN and heed traffic signs within the garages. Driving fast in these areas is dangerous and can cause damage to your vehicle, damage to other vehicles or injury to pedestrians. Please use caution!

law states that a person must be at least 21 years old to participate in mobile sports betting.

Exposing young people to online gambling can have damaging effects on their mental and financial wellbeing. A recent study by the National Institutes of Health found that early exposure to gambling increases the likelihood of depression, anxiety, mood swings, and financial stress. Further, a study by the American Psychological Association found that 32% of those with a gambling disorder experience suicidal ideation.

Attorney General James’ lawsuits also allege that Gemini and Coinbase are violating New York laws that forbid any betting on games in which New York college teams participate.

In her lawsuits filed this week, Attorney General James is asking the court to require Coinbase and Gemini to forfeit illegal profits, distribute restitution to consumers who were harmed, and pay fines equal to three times the profits the companies made through their illegal actions.

These lawsuits are the latest actions in Attorney General James’ continued efforts to enforce New York laws in the crypto and gambling industries and protect New York consumers. Attorney General James has issued multiple consumer alerts warning New Yorkers about the hazards of gambling, and has issued industry alerts to encourage compliance with state laws. The New York Attorney General has also taken action to prevent illegal gambling in New York. In January of 2026, she sued Valve, a video game developer, for illegally promoting gambling through video games popular with children and teenagers. In June 2025, Attorney General James announced that OAG stopped 26 illegal online sweepstakes casinos that offered slots, table games, and sports betting using virtual coins that could be exchanged for cash and prizes.

Attorney General James urges New Yorkers to ensure gambling platforms are registered with the New York State Gaming Commission and report any misconduct or gaming fraud to OAG by filing a complaint online, which can be done anonymously, or calling 1-800-771-7755.

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

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

opportunities,

Daryl Johnson

We Must Get Good Board Directors

What would you do if you knew that some individuals in leadership roles were not suitable for the positions they hold? How should a community address that concern?

Some individuals might do many things to try to get your support. However, you have to ask yourself a big question: What did they do for their community? Did they support matters that were no good for their community? If yes, then, what are your current thoughts about these individuals?

The big issue from that point is the way that they will probably represent our community. For instance, will they put a telephone number in this newspaper so that you can call them? If the answer is no, then what should that tell you?

As shareholders, we should take some time to review the board resolutions that are published in this newspaper. Why? Well, the main issue here is to see how every board director voted on our resolutions. However, one big problem here is that our community is not seeing how our board actually operates. Therefore, board meetings that involve voting on resolutions should be open to the public and broadcast on our television station.

Are board directors willing to publish viewpoints in our newspaper? There are too many things that go on in our community. So, if the answer is no, then you have to ask yourself, who is going to inform you about these matters? From my perspective, board directors should take the lead to keep our community informed of the important matters that are going on here.

Previously, I published several viewpoints about the way that our board meetings are actually conducted. For instance, management will arrange a board briefing session about a week before we have a board meeting. Then, that’s when directors can have extended discussions about our resolutions. However, in my opinion, some of the resolutions in

reference to our insurance policies are terrible.

On many occasions, I would point out several problems with these insurance policies. Thereafter, I would point out that the insurance brokers were getting outrageously high commissions on these insurance policies. Then, the worst problem of all is that these so-called briefing sessions were set up just one week before our board meetings.

Why? Well, our board meetings were scheduled just days before that insurance policy was set to expire. Therefore, what would happen if our board directors were to reject that insurance policy? Look, that insurance policy would expire. Then, we would not have insurance for an area of our community. Therefore, can you see that these insurance policies must be approved by our board? Broker commissions? The brokers know that they’re going to get paid, in some cases, well over $100,000.

Bottom line: Please consider these points carefully and stay informed about the issues affecting our community. Thank you.

Take Care of Your Floor

Co-op City is a relatively nice and clean community. Therefore, I’m thankful that we have workers that are doing a good job here. However, do we want to keep our community nice and clean? If yes, then we need to show our willingness by keeping our floor in a nice and clean condition.

However, there have been complaints that some cooperators are leaving their junk all over the garbage (compactor) rooms? So, how is it possible that some cooperators are doing their best to keep that room clean and then some cooperators want to mess up that room?

Look, there are some buildings in NYC that are beyond terrible. Garbage? Some tenants in NYC are living with garbage stacked up inside of their basement and the exterior areas of their building. So, some of these buildings are infested with rats and roaches.

If you go online, you’ll see how some tenants are dealing with severe cases of rats that have horrifically invaded their apartment. Lawsuits? Some lawsuits about these horrible conditions have been going on for years.

Bottom line: Should we be throwing our trash all over the garbage room? No! We have to understand that we moved here because we want to improve the way that we live. So, please do the right thing and keep your floor and your garbage room nice and clean. Also, please know that we appreciate your anticipated cooperation in this matter. Thank you.

Close

Please review the upcoming articles in this newspaper and remain informed about matters impacting our community. And, please do your part and work with your neighbors in a positive way. 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.

Candidates –––––

(Continued from page 1)

Candidates’ names will be automatically rotated on the ballot. This same order will be used for speakers at the three scheduled Candidates’ Forums and in the first Election Supplement published on Saturday, May 2 in the Co-op City Times. In the May 9th and May 16th Election Supplements, the order of candidates’ statements will be rotated to give each candidate the chance to be among the first five published in at least one of the three election issues of the newspaper.

Certified candidates are reminded that this coming Monday, April 27, at noon, is their first deadline for submission of their headshot, free ¼ page ad and 300-word statement for the May 2nd Election Supplement.

The deadline for the second election supplement, to be published on Saturday, May 9, is Monday, May 4, at noon. At that time, candidates are only required to submit a 300-word statement. The third and final deadline is at noon on Monday, May 11, for the final 300-word statement to be published on Saturday, May 16.

Physical copies of the Co-op City Times are delivered on Saturday mornings to the newspaper bins in the high-rise building lobbies, three community centers and to every townhouse door. The newspaper can also be read online at issuu. com/cctimes, on the Home page of the Riverbay website at coopcity.com, and on X, Threads and Bluesky, @coopcitytimes. You can also use your phone camera to scan the QR code affixed to the newspaper bins in your lobby or at the top of the Co-op City Times’ front page.

Coinciding with the release of the initial election supplement on Saturday, May 2, is the first of three official Candidates’ Forum, this one to be held in Rm. 45 at the Einstein Center at 3 p.m. These forums give shareholders a live opportunity to hear directly from those seeking seats on the Board, introducing them to the community in a public setting where they will outline priorities, share qualifications and begin engaging with shareholders’ concerns.

The second Candidates’ Forum is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, May 6, in Auditorium B at the Dreiser Center at 7 p.m., followed by the final forum on Monday, May 11, in Rm. 31 at the Bartow Center, also at 7 p.m. All three forums are in-person and will also be broadcast live on the Riverbay inhouse tv channel (the Crawler).

The Riverbay Crawler can be accessed on channel 12 (MATV subscribers) and channel 591 (Altice subscribers). The forums will also be rebroadcast on the Crawler in the days following each session.

Shareholders are encouraged to follow the coverage of the Board election in upcoming issues of the Co-op City Times and on the Riverbay Crawler, and to participate in the scheduled forums to stay informed throughout the election process. To that end, the Election Committee invites shareholders to submit questions to be presented to the candidates at the forums. Questions can be emailed to Riverbay2026Election@riverbaycorp.com

This year, 5,041 certified ballots are needed for a quorum to validate the Board election.

As candidates and their supporters begin campaigning, the Committee advises that the 2026 Election Rules & Regulations should be closely followed. The rules were revised slightly this year to encourage candidates to better interact with shareholders (see Election Committee Report on page 5) while still ensuring a level playing field for all candidates.

As in previous years, campaign literature can be handed out at any time, or slipped under apartment doors between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. only. All campaign literature used, whether handed out, posted or transmitted/distributed electronically, must include the name, address or post office box of the person or organization issuing the campaign material or sending such email, and, in the case of an organization, the name of the chair or treasurer of that organization. Election rule D 2(d) states: “Candidates shall not (i) use social media or email anonymously or under an assumed name, (ii) engage in personal attacks on fellow candidates or shareholders, or (iii) make defamatory statements. Any such conduct shall be a violation of these rules and the candidate may be subject to sanction by the Committee.”

Rule D 2(e) also advises candidates and/or their supporters that the use of Robo-calling or similar systems to contact shareholders for campaigning or election-related purposes is prohibited.

Election Rule D (5) prohibits the use of the Riverbay logo on or in campaign materials, including electronic forms such as social media and email.

Candidates should also be mindful that accepting campaign contributions or offers to pay for campaign expenses from any person or entity doing business, or soliciting business with Riverbay, including present or prospective managing agents, contactors, vendors, professionals, unions, their employees, commercial tenants, or persons having a direct or indirect interest in such companies, is prohibited by Election Rule D (8). And, any candidate who knowingly accepts campaign contributions or payment of campaign expenses, direct or indirect, in cash or in-kind, from any of the above mentioned person or entity doing business or soliciting business from Riverbay, will be disqualified.

This year, according to Election Rule E (3), Building Associations may actively promote voter participation in the Board election as long as they do not endorse or oppose a particular candidate or slate of candidates. Further, building association rooms may not be used for meetings to support or oppose candidates.

The use of outdoor space owned by Riverbay for campaign rallies, events or organized campaign activities related to the 2026 Board election is also allowed, in accordance with existing rules governing the use of outdoor space, as long as all candidates are invited to participate and a candidate for election makes a written request, and obtains prior written approval from the Election Committee [Election Rule E (2)].

Questions about the election rules or for clarifications, candidates should

email the Election Committee at Riverbay2026election@riverbaycorp.com

Shareholders will cast their election ballot in-person or by absentee, mail-in ballot, in accordance with Private Housing Finance law 13-c, as interpreted by NYS Homes and Community Renewal Housing Management Memo #2023-B-11, dated Sept. 24, 2023. Ballots cannot be returned to Riverbay or given to a Riverbay employee.

2026 Certified Candidates

Riverbay Board of Directors’ Election

1. Michelle Marbury

2. Rod Saunders

3. Monique Coleman

4. Andrea Leslie

5. Idalia Reyes

6. Yanira D. Jaime

7. Aaron Carnegie

8. Lynette Wright

9. Nero Graham

10. Darnell Lopez

11. Keith Logan

Please keep reading the Co-op City Times and stay tuned to the Riverbay in-house channels (channel 12 for MATV subscribers and channel 591 for Altice subscribers) for more news and updates from the Riverbay Board of Directors Election Committee.

There will be one vote per unit by shareholders of record as of April 1, 2026. Shareholders are voting to fill five seats on the Riverbay Board when voting begins at the Annual Meeting of shareholders on Wednesday, May 20, at 7 p.m. In addition to voting for up to five candidates, this year’s ballot will also include a referendum question to change the Riverbay by-laws relative to filling Board vacancies.

The election process is monitored by the 2026 Election Committee to ensure all candidates and their supporters abide by the Election Rules and Regulations and that the process is fair to all candidates. This year’s Election Committee is chaired by Board Director Mary Pearson. Other members of the Committee are Jewel Crawford-Duncan, Alice Jackson, Thalia Roach, Robert Gray, Lauren Lassiter and Georgetta White. The Committee is advised by Riverbay General Counsel Jeff Buss.

(Continued on

Riverbay Corporation Celebrates Administrative Professional’s Day

On April 22, Riverbay Corporation hosted an Administrative Professional Day luncheon at the Bartow Center, Rm. 28, from 11:30-12:30 p.m. to honor employees who provide administrative support to Riverbay departments. At the luncheon, speeches were made by General Manager Marvin L. Walton and Deputy General Manager Gloria Tejeiro and Deputy General Manager of Operations Dwayne Scott, who recognized the hard work and dedication of the adminis- trative staff members who keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Employees were able to celebrate and socialize as they enjoyed food, music, and pop-ups. Alice Moreno

Building 28 Association

Dearest shareholders,

We had a very successful and informative meeting last Wednesday, April 15. Our guest speaker was our new Janitorial Supervisor, Mr. Parrot.

As shareholders, there is always something valuable to take away from these meetings. They give us the opportunity to come together, get to know our neighbors, and better understand our rules and regulations. Most importantly, they remind us that our voices are heard and that we truly care about our community.

We also had another fun and successful Game Night— thank you all who showed up! Thank you to Bobby for the delicious pistachio cupcakes—they were a hit!

We will be hosting our Health & Wellness Event this Saturday at 2 p.m. in the association room, located in the rear of 120 Einstein Loop. There is still space available to sign up, so we encourage you to join us. We hope to see you there.

We encourage all shareholders to stay current with their building dues. Payments can be made at meetings, during events, or by contacting us via email at building28association@gmail.com.

Please continue to read the Co-op City Times, building bulletins, and posted notices for updates on building meetings, events, and community information.

Please remember that only members in good standing are eligible to vote in the upcoming Building 28 Association Board election.

An association is only as strong as its members.

—Brenda Brown

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

Happy 88th Birthday, Odessa! Co-op City Public Safety Department Tackles ASR Training

Here’s what 88 looks like, as Odessa P. Jones, director of the exercise class at the Bartow Older Adult Center (JASA), celebrates. Odessa continues with the same vigor as when she first started volunteering for JASA more than 25 years ago. She still “gets down” with her signature squat. “All the glory is to God,” she says.

–Lauretta Jaysura

Photo by Lauretta Jay-

By ALICE MORENO

On April 24, 13 recruits from the Co-op City Police Department (CCPD) participated in ASR training. ASR, which stands for aerosol subject restraint, requires recruits to be pepper sprayed, known as OC (Oleoresin Capsicum). The purpose of the training is to prepare the recruits in case they are attacked with pepper spray on the job, and to use less force in restraining the perpetrator. The training includes being sprayed while the recruits speak their name, rank, and serial number as they run through an obstacle course while they execute attack maneuvers. The training acts as a reminder for recruits to stay vigilant, and be prepared to defend themselves at all times.

By ALICE MORENO

Co-op City Creatives: Eric Arriola

Eric Arriola describes himself as a proud “son, father, and husband,” but most notably, he is known as a filmmaker and actor. Residing in Co-op City for five years in Section 5, he has had an eye for the arts ever since he was a kid. He began acting at six years old, when his older brother, Leonel, started acting in a theatre program in their school, PS.48, in Hunts Point. Though his brother liked it, Mr. Arriola adored the arts and was subsequently bitten by the acting bug.

mented his life, recording videos of family trips and overall videos to preserve the past. He never thought about filmmaking before—just acting— until a conversation with his late uncle Jessy, who told him a life-changing line: “Nephew, the key to playing those roles is to write them.” At first, he felt pressured into thinking that he had to do more work. Eventually, he took a screenwriting class during his undergraduate years at Marymount Manhattan College, where he learned not only

about the technicalities of filmmaking, but also the power and freedom of writing.

When Mr. Arriola turned 18, he began auditioning anywhere he could. He never turned down an audition and eventually landed a variety of gigs, such as a mailman in the short film “An Essential Delivery,” a search party volunteer in “Homicide City: Charlotte,” and gangbanger #2 on “Blue Bloods,” according to his IMBD.

“I knew that if I wanted to go further, I had to create,” said Mr. Arriola. “I see filmmaking as a full-fledged process. Writing informs acting, acting informs directing, which informs editing and producing. I loved it all, but after a few years I felt a sense of redirection and so I decided to pursue other things like business and furthering my education. After all that, I have since learned that the creative bug still makes its way back from time to

He didn’t begin filmmaking until he was older. During high school, he picked up a camcorder and docu-

time and I am grateful for that. I feel [as if] it keeps me balanced.”

His current projects include Migra, a short film which Mr. Arriola describes as “part comeback story, part creative outlet.”

After years of acting, Mr. Arriola decided to go back to school, and he attended Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business to obtain his master’s in management. “Migra” came when he least expected it—he partnered with Director Adrian Miranda and thus the film came to be. The short film/ episodic features Mr. Arriola as an immigration officer who gets caught up between his job and doing what he thinks is right.

For the future, Mr. Arriola hopes to create a part two to “Migra.” The episode is already written; however, it requires a lot of work, including producing, writing, casting, and editing. “None of it is easy,” says Mr. Arriola, regarding the film.

His work has been showcased at a variety of

(Continued on page 16)

Building 22A & B Association

Hello, cooperators. Spring is officially here, and wecelebrated with our Spring Soiree as an evening in Paris on Friday, April 17, at 7 p.m.in the association room. Katrina Sheppard, chairperson for the annual Spring Soiree, and her committee members produced a wonderful and enjoyable event.

Building 10 Association

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

This year’s theme was “An Evening in Paris.” The delicious food was prepared and contributed by the association members. The decorations by Ms. Athena June and her committee members transformed the atmosphere into the streets of Paris and DJ Gladys Polite’s choice of music kept everyone on the floor. Door prizes were awarded. Merci, merci, everyone, for organizing a very enjoyable evening! Enjoyment was had by everyone. Hope to see you next year. Mother’s Day is our next celebration; start thinking of great ideas. Remember to check with the Co-op City Times for information about the affidavit, convectors, and all important events.

Compactor Room: You are responsible for how you live, so keep this room as you would keep your home. Follow the instructions please.

Laundry Room Etiquette: We are not children; you know right from wrong. Read the etiquette board and follow the instructions please. Be a good neighbor. Happy birthday to all. Prayers to all who lost loved ones. Check on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something. Have a blessed week.

Betty Leak

Toastmasters Club

Co-op City Toastmasters Celebrates 25 Years

For 25 years, Co-op City ToastmastersClub has proudly served the communityas a hub for growth, leadership, and connection. It was chartered on April 10, 2001, by Toastmasters Intl.

The club was founded on the vision of creating a supportiveenvironmentwhereindividualscan buildconfidence, strengthencommunication skills, and develop as leaders. In celebration of this milestone occasion, an anniversary open house was held on Saturday, April 18, in the Bartow Center, Rm. 31.

celebrating our Anniversary

House on April 18.

Throughthe dedication of its members, the club has helped countless individuals overcome the fear of public speaking and discover their voices. It has cultivated leaderswho have served at various levels of the organization, earned distinguished toastmaster recognition(the highest educational achievement), and contributed to a strong culture of mentorshipand excellence.

Our club has hosted impactful events and helped many overcome their fear of public speaking.

Over the years, the club has hosted impactfulevents, including educational workshops, open houses, and youth leadership programs while actively engaging with the community. The club has fostered a diverseand welcomingmembership of professionals, fam-

Women’s Wellness Seminar – The Building 10 Association would like to thank Charmine Crews-Lane and Lenise Streeter for bringing your vision to light by putting together an awesome women’s wellness seminar filled with an abundance of information on women’s health.We would like to thank the speakers: Karina Williams RN, Ron Campbell, Babafemi Ojudun, Shakira O’Garro and Denise David. We would also like to thank the sponsors: Sean Wingate, Yvonne Raxton, Catina A. Rollins, Marcella Samuels, and Ms. Dee. A special thank you to the participants who came out to spend their Saturday with us.

Income Affidavit Notary – The Building 10 Association would like to thank Mr. Tremaine O’Garro and Mr. Robert Gray for coming to our building and notarizing our affidavits.

Building 10 Association Dues –The collection of building association dues for 2026 has begun.Building association dues are $10 per apartment. You can bring your dues to the building association meeting or give them to any executive board member. Please note, the money collected is used for association-related expenses, i.e. flyers, meeting and party supplies, and refreshments etc.

Reminder of The Week and Tip of The Week: Noise/Sounds – Noise/ sounds travel up, down, and sideways. Let’s remember that our neighbors may be on a different schedule and sleep during the day. Please be courteous to your neighbors regarding noise and sounds.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at theiranonymous tips hotline:718-8796311.

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

Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email atBuilding10Assoc@gmail.comor drop a note in the suggestion box in the laundry. Please note all submitted questions and comments will be answered at the monthly association meeting. We are also on Facebook, “Building 10 ABC Association.” Like our page and get notified of all the happenings in and around Building 10.

We would like to wish all who are born this month an incredibly happy birthday.

Celebrating an anniversary this month?Happy Anniversary!

To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery.

To all who have lost a loved one recently, we offer our deepest condolences. “Self-care is how you take your power back.” —Lalah Delia

Have a great week.

—Jewel Crawford-Duncan

ilies, and lifelong learners.More than a club, Co-op City Toastmasters is a family, a place where individuals grow, leaders rise, and confidence is built one speech, one evaluation, and one member at a time. We thank all our supporters, sponsors,and everyone who joined us in this celebration.We meet on the first and third Thursday of each month, at 7:30 p.m., in Rm. 5, 177 Dreiser Loop. All are welcome. For more information, email us at coopcitytoast@gmail.com.

Kim M. Sudderth

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.

Building 6 Association

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this it finds you in good standing. Please remember that on Tuesday, April 28, from 5-7 p.m. in the front lobby, a free mobile notary for income affidavits only will be available. All adults must have a valid NYS Identification, no exceptions. This service is provided by association presidents Lassiter and Tremaine O’Garro.

Save The Date: Saturday, May 16, the Mothers’ Month Soirée. Please RSVP by May 7. Call: 347-366-7690. Limited seating available. Look at the bulletin board for information. If any neighbor is in need of help facilitating a work repair in their apartment, please feel free to contact anyone on the executive board. We are at your service.

Compactor Room Etiquette: Never place raw garbage down the chute. All recyclables must be rinsed and placed into the clear bag. All bulk boxes and household items must be taken down to the basement’s Ash Cart room. Pizza and Chinese food containers must be broken down and placed into a sealed bag. We don’t want to give a VIP invitation for roaches and other vermin. Don’t be a litterbug.

Pet parents, please have your dog leashed at all times in public space. Always curb your dog. What may be cute to you may be a nuisance to others. Being approved by Riverbay to have a dog is a privilege; please remember that.

Building 13 Association

Good day to all our Co-op City shareholders. I am sure you all enjoyed the short-lived warm weather and although we are in the midst of a cold spell, the sun is coming back out tomorrow nice and strong.

Affidavit: We hope you try the electronic annual affidavit process. Shareholders are currently completing their affidavit. This procedure can be completed online and requires no notarized signature. The time is now to attempt this method. Going forward, it will become the normal process. It eliminates vast amounts of paper, stress and is quick and easy. Whether by electronic or paper, the return date is April 30.

Building Collection Dates: A notice was in the bulletin board informing you when our building dues will be collected: April 13, 14, 15, 18, 20, 21, 22 and April 25. Check the bulletin board for times. Similarly, during the past 10 years, when you join the association ($5), your affidavit is notarized free. Today is the last official day to pay your dues and get your affidavit signed. If you have additional questions, please contact our vice president (see # below).

Summer Fun Day

Section 2 Summer Fun Day will be held on June 27 from 12-5 p.m. near Carver Loop and Casals Place. Please see the notice on the bulletin board to secure your table. Thus far, we have received additional sponsorship from McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home, Bob’s Discount Furniture, the local Goodyear Tire Store and attorney (former representative) Stephen Kaufman.

Learn about the mock trial: The office of the District Attorney in the Bronx is offering you the chance to be a mock juror in a felony trial program. It is being held on May 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 198 East 161st Street, Bronx, NY 10451, 3rd floor. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.

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 visit our website at: https://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13assoc@yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370, or Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team. —Leslie Peterson

Laundry Room Etiquette: Never spray an aerosol disinfectant into the machine; it could ignite a fire. All empty detergent bottles and used dryer sheets must be placed into its properly marked receptacle. Neighbors, we have over 300 apartments in this building; please don’t hog up all of the machines during busy times. Your load must be removed within 15 minutes of completion. Parents with young children, please be mindful that the laundry room isn’t a playground. We advise you to take advantage of one of the many kiddy parks on the Co-op City campus.

Neighbors, if you and/or anyone in your household is experiencing a mental health crisis, please dial 988; the hotline armed with mental health professionals is open 24/7. As the saying goes, “If you see something, say something.” Call CCPD, 718-671-3050, or dial NYPD at 911. Our security is paramount to our overall quality of life. CCPD is the first line of defense against unsavory behavior. The CCPD Community Affairs Unit will be doing a “Meet and Greet Lasagna With A Cop” with Building 6 very soon, so stay tuned. As always, we pray for safety and blessings over all.

“Unity in the CommUNITY strength arises from caring connections, with individuals achieving more together than alone, ultimately creating a better world through service, love, and unity.”

—Lauren K. Lassiter

Broun Place Townhouse Association

The Broun Place Townhouse Association weekly articles are back and will be appearing in our grand newspaper, the Co-op City Times. Also back are the early blossoming of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and other bulb plants. This is thanks to the work of Mr. Ambo and the Grounds department taking care of our patios. It is very possible photos of our colorful patios will be published.

Our sincere condolences to Mr. Eliot Engel’s family and friends on his transition. I have always been very proud to know Eliot through Evander Childs High School and renew that friendship here in Co-op City. He attended each reunion event of ours.

The Riverbay Board of Directors Election season has begun in full strength and there are many events, meetings, and organizational activities we should participate in. This may sound foreign to you, but it is your job as a resident in a Mitchell-Lama middle income community to read about who is running for the Board of Directors. You should know who is on the ballot. The list of candidates is in this issue.

Neighbors, April winds emphasize the necessity of securing terrace belongings. Some personal belongings have been blown off terraces. We can do better. Secure those chairs, umbrellas, and other terrace equipment. We see some activity at locations that have been empty for a long time and hopefully fresh new business is coming. We wish them success and hope residents will patronize them.

Our Broun Place Townhouse Association accepts new members any time. The membership fees are $12 a year. Dues are used for supplies and in support of emergency efforts to offer condolences to our neighbors living through the loss of a loved one.

Vehicles parked in Broun Place cul de sac are required to have “Disability Placards” to park in the “no parking zone.” Please report to our CCPD, 718671-3050, or the 45th Precinct if you notice a car without one. Don’t forget “if you see something, say something!” Tickets will be issued to those without placards.

By the way, we did make a donation to CCPD for their holiday collection thanks to our vice president, Mrs. Vivian Burrus. She purchased holiday toys with our savings just in time to increase CCPD’s collection.

Happy birthday greetings are extended to neighbor Thea Lowe (Mindy Columbo) for April 30. Please let us know if you want tidings published in our articles. Call the following number between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. to report non-delivery of the Co-op City Times: 1-407-666-8317. We urge you to read your Co-op City Times

Thank you for sending me “Get Well Wishes.” It was comforting to have your support.

—Eva Kindaichi Lazaar

AARP Chapter #4997

May is right around the corner and we at AARP Chapter #4997 send blessings and prayers to our family, friends, and neighbors for a springtime of good health, calm, safety, and more pleasant lifestyles for all. These are difficult times that we are living in, to say the least.

Our Tour Committee has completed the first of our planned trips and by all accounts, it was a success. Thanks to all who participated and enjoyed the day. We appreciate everyone’s support. The Tour Committee will be advertising new excursions soon. We are still accepting reservations for our three-day, two-night scheduled trip to Connecticut River Valley from July 15-17, 2026. The double occupancy rate is $599 and $788 for single occupancy. You can also request trip insurance, for a small fee, to ease your mind since it is a few months away. The rate includes deluxe motorcoach transportation, two-nights lodging, breakfasts, dinners, gratuities, baggage handling and taxes. The trip includes Mystic Seaport, Connecticut and Florence Griswald museums, Olde Mystic Village, the Essex Steam and Train Railroad Excursion and more. Please contact Ms. Stanton at 718-320-8079, Ms. Sangrosse at 347-409-1362, or Ms. Brown at 718-379-7762 for more information.

On April 13, we had a General Membership Meeting with a guest speaker. Mr. Rome, as he prefers to be called, came to us from Optimum Cable Services. He explained some of the changes put into effect by his company to enhance the service to our community. We now have a direct number for shareholders to contact Optimum concerning our service. The number is 866-218-2975, they are also installing free Wi-Fi in the laundry rooms and the signage will be posted in the area. He answered many questions and stayed after the meeting to meet with any members who had personal complaints or questions about their accounts. Optimum will be requesting appointments with our building presidents to meet with the shareholders and explain their services. Please use the new number for help.

During the month of April, Riverbay Corporation sends out Annual Income Affidavits and requests that they be completed and notarized. AARP is again notarizing these papers for free at our office. The schedule is as follows: Monday, April 13, 2026 from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and Wednesday, April 15, 22, 29 from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. This service requires that all who sign the affidavit be present at the time of signing, have valid and current ID and be patient. We do this on a first-come, first-serve basis, with no exceptions, so bring your manners and patience.

Our office hours are Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., at 177 Dreiser Loop, second floor, Rm. 0. Phone: 718-320-1946. Email: aapr4997@gmail.com. Please leave a message when you contact our office and we will return the call on our next business day. Health and Wellness have no new unfortunate occurrences and continues to send prayers for continuing recovery for our members and friends. Contact Mrs. Wilson at 718-671-5493, Ms. Washington at 718-8775194, or Ms. Harris at 718-379-2298 to share information in this article.

We Are Here To Serve—Not To Be Served

—Ann Purnell

Rivers Run

Spring Returns to the Garden

There is a quiet moment each year when the garden begins to breathe again—and we feel it.

As we step into a new season, we are filled with gratitude and anticipation. The soil is waking, the beds are being prepared, and once again, our shared space becomes a place of learning, beauty, and connection.

We are excited to welcome the entire 5th grade class from PS 153 on May 6. There is nothing like young hands in the soil, curiosity in the air, and the joy of learning where food comes from. These moments remind us that the garden is not just about growing plants—it’s about growing people.

On May 10, we invite the community to join us for our Mother’s Day Paint & Chat celebration. It will be a time to relax, create, and honor the women who nurture, guide, and hold us together. Bring your spirit, your stories, and your creativity.

Our official garden opening will take place the weekend of May 16. We look forward to welcoming everyone back, neighbors, friends, and new faces to share in the season ahead.

This garden belongs to all of us. It is a place to gather, to learn, to heal, and to celebrate life as it unfolds.

Please tell your friends and family about this amazing place where we not only grow fruits and vegetables, but we grow knowledge and friendships. Rivers Run Community Garden is a movement towards improved mental and physical health. We provide all types of workshops including nutrition, meditation, edible and medicinal wilds identification, planting, construction, and crafting. We are the outdoor classroom for the local schools, daycares as well as residents and neighbors. We are a place of beauty and peace. Visit. Stay. Experience us.

Beginning May 16, Rivers Run is open to the public on Saturdays & Sundays, 12 a.m.-5 p.m. Weekday hours are for members, however if you see the gate open, please come in.

Membership requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waiting list for beds. Members who are actively fulfilling the 20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list. Volunteers are welcome.

If you’d like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo.com or call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982 or me at 718-671-3801. Mailing address for dues (checks only): 100 Casals Pl #32K, Bronx, NY 10475.

—Gail Sharbaan

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 four to six clean shopping bags with handles and a shopping cart to receive food. We will not place food in black bags because they pose a safety hazard. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. This distribution site is open on 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

Last Call – April is the last month 10475 community members can register or re-certify for pantry services in 2026. Please present a valid IDNYC card, NY State Driver’s License, or NY State Non-Driver’s License only.

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!

Black Forum is happy to announce the pick up times for the Saturday, June 27, Tropicana Atlantic City trip: 920 Baychester Ave. at 8:40 a.m.; Asch Loop (behind library) at 9:10 a.m.; 135 Einstein Loop (outside community center) at 9:30 a.m.Please be early. Also, remember your assigned seat to ensure a quickdeparture. We lookforward to seeing you!

Joshua at Sight & Sound and Shady Maple Smorgasbord: Friday, August 21. The $225 total covers a full day of inspiration and dining. Call 917209-5334 or 929-464-5520:

Contact Us: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com

D. Illis

film festivals such as the HBO New York Latino Film Festival, Latino Film Market Festival, and Made in New York Film Festival.

Aside from filmmaking and acting, Mr. Arriola enjoys cooking (he participated in shows such as “Shoprite Cooking Star” and “Let Them Cook”), comedy (he has worked with comedians such as Rob Riggle and Donald Glover), and DJ’ing.

In addition to filmmaking and acting, Eric Arriola enjoys cooking. Above, an appearance on “Shoprite Cooking Star.”

When asked what advice he has for aspiring filmmakers, Mr. Arriola responded: “It’s so important that people become well versed in whatever it is that they want to do. Learn from the ground up and then some. When it comes to filmmaking, get in front of and behind the camera as much as possible. You may have no aspirations to become an actor; however, you will be better able to direct once you can speak the actor’s language. You will have a better appreciation if you allow yourself the opportunity of multiple perspectives.”

Hammering after 6 p.m., vacuuming after 9 p.m., music or TVs played very loudly at any hour, doors slamming at all hours... these are just a few examples of what can disturb the peace of fellow cooperators. Noise complaints may lead to a fine. Please, let’s work together to make Co-op City a peaceful community. —CSO Department

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.

NAACP Co-op City Branch General Membership Meeting – April 26 at 3 p.m.

Let’s Discuss – What is the 25th Amendment? Key reason for the Amendment? Why was it needed? Has it ever been used? Join the conversation! Also, Sunset Cruise information update. All are welcome. Our doors are open and bring a guest or two.

25th Amendment: For the first time in its history, the NAACP CEO and President Derrick Johnson, called for the amendment to be invoked stating, “This president is unfit, unwell, and unhinged.” “The rhetoric and behavior we are witnessing from Trump isn’t just alarming, it’s dangerous…Trump must be immediately removed from office.”

The 117th NAACP National Convention – “We the People” will be held in Chicago, July 18-22, 2026. Registration opens in April. For more information on registration and convention housing, go to: naacp.org/convention/hotel.

Pay Attention: To the Executive Order signed by President Trump limiting mail-in voting ahead of the 2026 US Elections: “NAACP President Derrick Johnson called Trump’s action hypocritical and unconstitutional. “Shocking… the mail-in president restricts mail-in voting. A hypocrite, as always, Johnson said. “Not only is his order unconstitutional, it’s unserious. This order will not stand. His attempts to silence us will only make us louder – with our voices and our votes.”

Watch the Birthright Citizenship Fight: “There is nothing Donald Trump won’t try to bulldoze and rebuild in this divisive image, not even our Constitution. NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson said “For more than a century, birthright citizenship has ensured that everyone born in this country is recognized as fully American, without exception or qualification. This administration’s blatantly unconstitutional executive order has invited chaos, sanctioned racial and ethnic profiling, and placed countless families at risk of exclusion in the only home they have ever known.”

“The NAACP will continue to fight to protect citizenship as a fundamental civil right and to ensure that our nation does not reverse course from its progress to equality and belonging.”

Today, we march. Tomorrow, we organize. In November, WE VOTE!

Follow us on Facebook: “Co-op City NAACP”

Looking to make an even greater impact? Become a champion for change and join us tokeep advancing Annual membership: Adult, $30; Youth, $10; Silver Life: $1000. Make ck/mo. payable to: NAACP Co-op City. Mailing address: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 To become a member online, go to: www.naacp.org membership. Select Co-op City (2210) and join. To leave a message, call the officephone at: 718-320-3210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com.

Brenda Brown

National Council of Negro Women

Bethune-Height Recognition Program (BHRP) – Our 52nd annual BHRP Program will be held on Saturday, May 16, from 12-4 p.m., at Leonard’s Palazzo, 555 Northern Boulevard, Great Neck, NY 11021. Luncheon tickets now cost $161.90 and can only be purchased through Eventbrite. At this program each year, all 18 of the NCNW sections from New York State and New York State Affiliates gather to honor outstanding women in our communities. We welcome new life members, legacy life members and achievers, all to raise funds for the maintenance of our national headquarters that is located at 633 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. This program that is presented by sections all over the United States is named after our founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, and our National President for forty years, Dr. Dorothy I. Height. This year, the theme is “Raise Our Voice and Act with Purpose.” For more information, contact nysbhrpchairs@gmail.com.

Health Committee – Hooray! The Saturday morning GirlTrek group has begun its spring walking season on Saturday mornings at 9 a.m.! The weather is perfect for a delightful half hour walk with a fun group of women on the greenway. If you missed it today, don’t miss it again next Saturday! For more information, contact co-chairs Keisha Keelen at 917-697-4854 or Farah Martin at 917-806-2534. Our Health Committee sponsors these walks together as a shared mission of health, unity, and Black girl power.

April is Autism Acceptance Month – April is a time dedicated to promoting understanding, inclusion, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum, with 1 in 36 children identified as autistic and the prevalence among adults is estimated to be 1 in 45. The movement emphasizes moving from merely raising awareness to fostering acceptance. Donate to organizations that offer resources and support for autistic individuals such as the Autism Society. Share stories and information that challenge stereotypes and highlight the diverse experiences within the autism community. Wear blue colors on April 2 (World Autism Awareness Day) or throughout the month. Autism spectrum disorder refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social communication skills and repetitive or restricted behaviors or thinking. Autism is a lifelong condition, and an autistic person’s needs, strengths, and challenges may change over time. Early intervention and therapies can make a big difference in a person’s skills and outcomes later in life.

Women Represent – If you are reading your newspaper before lunch time, you still have time to enjoy our production of “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf.” This choreopoem by Ntozake Shange is being performed this afternoon at 2 p.m., in Dreiser Community Center, Rm. 4. As a celebration of Women’s History Month and National Poetry Month, we are presenting excerpts from this play that when it opened on Broadway in 1976, it was only the second play written by a Black woman to appear there. Come join us!

Joyce Howard

Get Involved!

Co-op City is your home. If you have talents, knowledge and expertise that can be helpful and improve the quality of life in Co-op City, share your ideas. Vote in the annual Board election, join a Board committee, write to Riverbay Management or pen a letter to the editor.

Goose Island Seniors

Goose Island Pizza Party – Members only; Fri., April 29, half-time during Bingo, 2 -2:45 p.m., 45 mins.

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.

Resorts Atlantic City – Thurs., May 14. Adults only. Price: $70; bonus, $18 slot play. Bus arriving at Einstein Loop at 8:15 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:40 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 8:50 a.m. Balance due Apr. 13.

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

Goose Island Seniors Indoor Picnic PartyFri., June 5, at 1 p.m. in our club, Rm. 39. Members only. Covered dish. Bring something or $20 at door. Members with birthdays in June enter for free.

Tropicana Atlantic City – Thurs., Jun. 11. Adults only. Price: $70; bonus, $10 slot play. Bus arriving at Einstein Loop at 8:15 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:40 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8:50 a.m. Balance due May. 18.

Niagara Falls and Toronto Trip – July 6-10. Sold out.

Resorts Atlantic City – Tues., July 14. Adults only. Price: $70, bonus, $10 slot play. Bus arriving at Einstein Loop, 8:15 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:40 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8:50 a.m. Balance due Jun. 15. Nordic Lodge & Foxwood Casino – Sat., Aug 1. Price $230. Call 646-579-1701.

Tropicana Atlantic City – Tues., Aug. 11. Adults only. Price: $70; bonus, $10, slot play. Bus arriving at Einstein Loop at 8:15 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:40 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 8:50 a.m. Balance due July 13.

Resorts Atlantic City – Thurs., Sept. 10. Adults only. Price: $70; bonus, $18 slot play. Bus arriving at Einstein Loop at 8:15 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:40 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 8:50 a.m. Balance due Aug. 10.

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; $15 food voucher.

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

Bingo – Mon., Wed., and Fri., 1:15 p.m.-3:30 p. m. Members only. Admission: $5 for 3 cards; $0.25 each additional card. Twelve games and jackpot. Refreshments.

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

To all Members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month April: Niles Flanders, Octavio Cruz (Deceased), Wendy Berch, Dolores Wynn, Isilda Modeste, Jenaro Colon-Rodriguez, Alfonso Gonzalez, Ione Foote, Gloria Colon, Brenda Bonner and Valerie Francis-Williams. May: Marjorie Walters and Jacqueline Roy-Twiggs.

Sick and Shut-in – Sandra Cortez-Johnson, and Araida (Greta) Feliciano.

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

Good health to all.

––Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, members and friends.

We hope that everyone is doing well.

Please Note: The bus pick up location for all RODL trips will be in Dreiser Loop, in front of H&R Block. The contact person for trips is Serita Greyson at 347-564-5722. The theater contact person is Francine Jones at 718-671-5957. Theater Committee – “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” on May 6 and May 20, the van will pick up at 11:30 a.m. and we will leave promptly at 12 p.m., no exceptions.

Scholarship Committee – May 15 is the deadline for completed applications to be submitted. Questions can be addressed to JoAnn Harris at 718-7109082.

Sight and Sound “Joshua” – Tuesday, June 2. Seats are still available. Final payments are due by April 27. The show is at 11 a.m. with lunch to follow at 2:30 p.m. at Miller’s Smorgasbord. Ticket price is $225. Bus pick up time is 6:30 a.m. and will depart promptly at 7 a.m. Serita will be available in Rm. 19 on Tuesday, April 27, from 1-3 p.m. to accept payments. June Luncheon – Wednesday, June 10, 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Marina del Rey. Ticket price is $130 and tickets are now on sale. Transportation is included on a first-paid, first-seated basis. Daisy will be in Rm. 19 on Thursdays from 2-4 p.m. Contact Daisy Young at 917-292-7010, Ted Byrd at 917-7979230 or Lillian Odom at 347-678-0745 for tickets and information.

Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our April birthday celebrants. We wish you a happy birthday with peace, love, and happiness throughout the year.

Condolences – We extend our condolences to Shirley Ward-El on the recent loss of her daughter. Please keep Shirley and the Ward-El family in your thoughts and prayers. We continue to keep all our bereaved members in prayer.

Good and Welfare – Our get-well wishes are continued for Jesse Birth. Please continue to keep Jay McKenzie, Leonard Murrel, and James Stanton in prayer. Please notify Lorraine Parker at 718-671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths.

Membership Committee – Annual membership dues are $25. Questions may be addressed to Mary at 718-655-9170.

General Meeting – Our next general membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 6, at 1 p.m., in the Dreiser Center Auditorium C. We look forward to seeing you there.

Georgianna Rodriguez

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.

We are currently receiving names for Confirmation and Reception.

In-person worship service for The Fourth Sunday of Easter will be conducted at the church on Sunday, April 26, at 9 a.m., as well as via teleconference.

Please tune in for the noonday prayer service each week, Mondays through Fridays. To participate by teleconference, please dial 1-425-436-6344; Access Code: 509-898, followed by the # sign.

Pledge Cards for 2026 are now available at the church. Please tell us about your talents, areas of interest, and expertise.

Events and Fundraising Activities

Sunday, May 10: Mother’s Day

(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 p.m.-1 p.m. Luncheon from 1-5 p.m. Adults, $150. Children 12 and under, $60. Tickets for the luncheon and for the raffle tickets are now available. Please contact Valrie at 347-200-5850.

Sunday, June 21: Father’s Day.

Condolences: Our thoughts and prayers go out to all our bereaved members, families and friends who have recently lost loved ones.

We continue to collect only cans and non-perishable dry goods for the pantry at Grace Episcopal Church, West Farms.

“He revives my soul, and guides me along the right pathways for his Name’s sake.” Psalm 23:3

Grace and Peace!

Tanya Blanchette

Building 33 Association

Updates for Residents

The Building 33 Association continues to focus on improving communication, strengthening our community, and making steady progress on building improvements.

Meeting Update – The April Building 33 Association meeting was held this week. A full recap will be shared in next week’s publication.

Notary Service Recap – Notary sessions were held on Monday and Tuesday in the Building 33 Association room to assist residents with income affidavits.

We thank Mr. Tremaine,Mr. Bob, and Ms. Dianne for providing their time and services to support our residents.

New: Community Directory

We will be launching a Building 33 Community Directory to highlight businesses, services, and skills within our community.

This directory will allow residents to share what they offer and help others discover and support services within the building.

Building 33 residents will be identified, with a focus on supporting talent within our own community first.

More details on how to participate will be shared soon on our website and at upcoming meetings.

Association Room Improvements

Upgrades to the Association room are currently in progress.

Plumbing work for the installation of a sink and cabinets began on April 17th.

We have also added a 50-inch television and purchased a portable stand, allowing for flexible use during meetings and presentations.

Social events will remain on hold until the work is completed.

Resident Info Sheet

Residents are encouraged to complete the Building 33 Resident Information Sheet to stay informed. This includes text alerts for urgent updates and email notifications for meetings and announcements.

Forms are available online and in paper format at: www.WeAreBuilding33.org

Stay Connected

For updates, notices, and announcements, visit: www.WeAreBuilding33.org

To contact the Association: contact@WeAreBuilding33.org

Next Meeting: Thursday, May 28 at 7:30 p.m. All residents are encouraged to attend.

Tobias Garcia

Bartow Mall Parking Alert

Shareholders, guests and shoppers are reminded that there is a two-hour parking limit in the Bartow Mall. Parking is for the exclusive use of customers while shopping in the commercial establishments within the Bartow Mall with a posted twohour limit. Vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

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 begins at 9:30 a.m.

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

Daily Noon Day Prayer Line: 12-12:30 p.m., Monday–Friday. Wednesday Night Bible Study and Prayer from 7-8 p.m. The conference call line number is 646-769-9900; Access Code: 3099088#. Please mute your phone.

Worship Message: “I Will Rejoice”

“Scripture Lesson: Psalms 100: 1-5KJV “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.”

Save The Dates

Sunday, May 17 – Join us for 11 a.m. service, Women’s Day. We ask all women to wear white.

Wednesday, August 12 – Sight & Sound Theatre, “Joshua,” includes R/T Transportation, 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, 2026. Standard Rooms: PP Double: $500; Triple: $440; Single: $680. Includes two nights/three days (double occupancy), six meals, R/T motor-coach transportation, and retreat materials. Secure your reservation with a non-refundable deposit of $50 for Double or $100 for Single. 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 718-708-5035.

Cruise with us on the Carnival Firenze, July 21-29, 2027 – Itinerary: Celebration Key, Grand Bahamas, Half Moon Cay, Bahamas, Grand Turk. For more information, contact: Hermena Smith at 718-708-5035.

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. Good health and wellness for all.

Please mail contributions, tithes, and offerings to: Church of the New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Bronx, New York 10475. —Brenda Brown

Pentecostal Tabernacle is located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, NY 10475. Contact Information

For more information or inquiries, please contact us at any of the following numbers: 718-3240334, 718-320-4218, or 646-806-9449. Invitation to Attend Services

We warmly invite everyone to join us on the scheduled days for our gatherings and services.

Sunday morning worship service will be held at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary.

Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service and all-night services will be held online. To join, call 727-731-4156.

Wednesday Night Bible Study and Prayer Meeting.

Join us every Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m., for our Bible Study and prayer meeting. This gathering is a time aside for members and visitors to come together in fellowship.

Friday worship service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

Focus: Prayer of Repentance

Psalm 51:1-13

“Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy loving kindness, according unto the multitude of thy tender mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity and cleanse me from my sins. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. 4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight, that thou mightiest be justified when thou judgest. Behold, thou desirest truth

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: 886 1355 3980S.

Save The Date

Sunday, May 3rd

11 a.m. – Pastor’s Birthday Celebration; Guest preacher, Bishop Paul Lloyd

3:30 p.m. – Shepherd’s Ministry Anniversary; Guest preacher, Rev. Frank Hawkins

The Year of Jubilee

Pre-Anniversary Service

Sunday, May 31, 3:30 p.m. – Rev. Dr. Thomas Johnson, Canaan Baptist Church

Opening 50th Anniversary Services

Sunday, November 1, 11 a.m. – Rev. Audrey Jones, Friendly Baptist Church, Bronx

3:30 p.m. – Rev. Carl L. Washington III, Pilgrim Baptist Church

Closing 50th Anniversary Services

Sunday, November 8, 11 a.m. – Rev. Dr. Edgar Howard, Manhattan Baptist Church

3:30 p.m. – Rev. Dr. Theresa Lloyd, White Rock Baptist Church “A 50th Jubilee Celebration of Pastoral Leadership.” The Community Protestant Church family is proud to announce that Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens is celebrating his 60th year in ministry and his 50th year as our pastor. We are so excited that we are hailing this milestone as “The Year of Jubilee.” You are hereby invited to be our special guest at one or all of the pre-anniversary services and events planned in his honor.

On Christ the Solid Rock I stand! Deacon James Nicholson delivered the invocation and Psalm 32:1-7 ESV. The CPC Choir sang and pastor preached “Glory to His Name,” Jeremiah 9:23-24. Altar prayer included prayers from Pastor, Rev. Cooper, Rev. Karen and Rev. Richardson. Thankful for Sister Yvonne Burrus in service accompanied by her grandson, Kirk Jones. The Jubilee Kick Off. After the scrumptious meal prepared by the Shepherd’s Ministry, Sister Olivia Owens welcomed Rev. Helena Tyson and the Franklin Avenue Baptist Church family. Sister Eunice Braithwaite read Leviticus 25:10 and Sister Almertha Pelotte Byrd, the Statement of Purpose. The CPC and Franklin choirs combined brought the joy when they sang, “I Don’t Want to Lose My Faith.” Rev. Tyson shared the word, “A Pastor According to God’s Heart,” Jeremiah 3:15. It was a good day. Worship with us. Hear the good news of Jesus and experience all the new possibilities at Community Protestant, a church of love and understanding.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to those in a season of mourning. We are praying for all sick and homebound members. Happy Birthday to everyone celebrating.

“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will guide you with knowledge and understanding.” Jeremiah 3:15

––Lexa M. Mingo

in the inward parts, and in hidden part thou shall make me know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean, wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me hear joy and gladness, that the bones that thou hast broken may Rejoyce. Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation: and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then I will teach transgressors thy way: and sinners shall be converted unto thee.”

David Took Personal Responsibility for His Sin

In Psalm 51: 1-3, David stated, “I acknowledge my transgression.” The word “acknowledge” means more than just admit; rather it involves realizing or discovering one sinfulness so that one becomes of his nature and is confronted by its reality. This was the result of Nathan’s declaration thou art the man. The first step in real repentance is recognizing the true nature of sin and accepting responsibility for one’s transgression. He stated that his sins is ever before him. Whenever someone repents he cannot hide from the sins within him.

David asked God to purge him with hyssop, and it will make him clean and wash him so that he can be made whither than snow. He is requesting joy and gladness; the bones that were broken may

rejoice. David knows the relationship that he has with God and cannot afford to lose it because of his sinful nature. He realized that God knows his heart and knows all about the murder and adultery that he has committed.

One writer stated that you cannot hide from God. His eyes are watching you.

Rev. R. Sibblies

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.

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

Stop Being Offended For Others

There is a danger in the church that Jesus corrects when displayed by his disciples. We reject people that are not part of our group. Yet ministry is available to all God’s people.

Mark 9:38-40 “Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.”“Do not stop him,”Jesus said.“For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me,for whoever is not against us is for us.”

Jesus encourages ministry from outside his disciples by explaining that the heart pointed towards him is true. Moses encountered a parallel situation and also encouraged ministry.

Numbers 11:26-30 “Two men, whose names were Eldad and Medad, had remained in the camp. They were listed among the elders, but did not go out to the tent. Yet the Spirit also rested on them,and they prophesied in the camp. A young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.”Joshua son of Nun,who had been Moses’ aidesince youth, spoke up and said, “Moses, my lord, stop them!”But Moses replied, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all theLord’s people were prophetsand that theLord would put his Spiriton them!”Then Moses and the elders of Israel returned to the camp.

Young Joshua did not understand that ministry expands beyond man-made boundaries. Moses corrects him by acknowledging that God’s Spirit can extend to all whom God calls.

Luke 9:52-55 Jesus sent messengers ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things readybut the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem.When the disciples James and Johnsaw this, they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” But Jesus turned and rebuked them. And said, “You don’t know what kind of spirit you belong to.”

Jesus confronts the wrong attitude in his disciples as he gets ready for the cross. They want forced obedience; Jesus tells them they’re being negatively spiritually influenced. The wrong spirit can divide a church and prevent alignment in ministry. Everyone must examine themselves to walk in truth.

Schedule (147 Dreiser Loop)

Join us April 29 from 6:45-8 p.m. for Worship Wednesday, a time of praise and prayer.

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

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

Tuesday – Prayer at 10 a.m. Bible Study at 12 p.m.

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

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

Friday – Spanish Bible Study at 12 p.m. and 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.

REMINDER –

Carrying Charge Boxes

Shareholders are reminded that the carrying charge deposit boxes located in the community centers open on the morning of the first business day of the month and close at midnight on the 10th of the month, which is the last day to pay your carrying charges before a late fee is accessed. If the 10th of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, the carrying charge boxes remain open through the next business day.

Riverbay Management

Church of God’s Children Worship With Us

Come and experience the presence, power, and love of God at Church of God’s Children. You are warmly invited to join us every Sunday in a Spirit-filled, bilingual, Word-teaching house of worship where all are welcome. Our foundation is clear and unwavering: “Jesus Built This Church on Love.” In a time when hearts are searching and the world is uncertain, this is your invitation to draw near to God. We encourage you not only to worship with us, but to seek Him throughout the many houses of worship in Co-op City—seek the Lord while He may still be found.

Sunday Services: 10:00 a.m. – English

12:00 p.m. – Spanish

We also pause to honor the life of our beloved longtime member, Raymond Isales, who has gone home to be with the Lord. A memorial service will be held on April 25 at 3:00 p.m. at our church.

Location: 127 Dreiser Loop, Section 2 (garden level), Bronx, NY

Pastors: Bishops Angelo & Nancy Rosario

Contact: 718-790-9120

—Bishop Nancy Rosario

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

Common Pantry will be at Bartow on April 28 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

JASA Bartow OAC Mother’s Day Show at the Timber Point Country Club in Great River, NY, on May 7. Dancing, DJ, and time at the Tanger Outlet. Cost: $155.

Och’s Apple Orchard, Warwick, NY, August 27, 2026. Cost: $45, includes lunch. Payments to be made at the Bartow Center only.

Caesar Resort and Casino Atlantic City on June 6.

Cost: $65 ($10 slot play back). Deposit: $30 to sign up

JASA Einstein OAC Essex Steam Train Riverboat on Thurs., July 9. One day. Cost: $165 (Payment Plan: $55 due 4/20, 5/18, 6/8). Payments can be made on Mondays only!

Senior Day, Holiday Hill, CT, on Tuesday August 25. One Day. Cost: $145 (Payment Plan: $48 due 5/14, 6/15, 7/13). Payments can be made on Mondays only!

Steel Drum Class – Funded by the Solomon family at NORC office on Weds. at 1 p.m.

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

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

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

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

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

Smart/phone & Tablet Class w/Liz, 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.

Computer Learning Class, 1:30-2:30 p.m. (Starts April 7)

Card Games w/Frankie, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

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

In-Person Computer Class – Thurs. from 3-4 p.m. at the Bartow NORC office.

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

Painting Classes at the NORC ofc. starting Mon March 23rd, at 10:30 a.m.

JASA provides comprehensive emotional wellness support for older adults ages 60+ residing in Co-op 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.

SU CASA Program is back at Dreiser OAC. Join us starting April 9 at 1:15 p.m. in Rm. 2, for Hip-Hop Memory & Story Circle: Honoring Elders’ Stories Through Rhythm,

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

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

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

Ageless Facials & Self Care, 1-3 p.m.

Movies w/Dennis: “The RIP,” 1-3 p.m.

Manicures & Facials, Rm. 35, 1-3 p.m. (Appt. Only)

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

Bridge to Care Arthritis Exercise w/Damien, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Bingo, 1-2p.m.

Hair Care & Styling, Rm. 38, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (Appt. Only)

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

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

Aqua Aerobics, 1-3 p.m. (off site) Board Games, 1-2 p.m. Technology w/Jimmy, 1-2 p.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.

Conversation, & Collaborative Creative Expression

NORC Annual Health Fair – May 13 from 11 a.m.2 p.m. Music, BP screenings, raffles, and giveaways. To order lunch, call 718-320-1345 by 5/1/26.

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

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

Line Dance with Bartow Swingers – Wed. & Fri. from 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., 1-3 p.m. in Rm. 7. Call 718-320-1345 for an appt.

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

TRIP: Green Acres Mall, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Weekend Recap Discussion, 9-10 a.m. Stay Well Exercise w/Denise, 10-11 a.m., Aud. A Leisure Games w/Clara, 1-3:30 p.m.

Trip: Macy’s Flower Show, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Current Events, 10-11 a.m. Art w/Gerry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Leisure Games w/Clara, 1-3:30 p.m., Rm. 2

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Crafts w/Roselen, 1-2 p.m.

Tai Chi w/Jimmy, 2-3 p.m., Aud. A Computer & Tablet class w/Ralph, 6:307:30 p.m. (virtual)

Leisure TV, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion, 11 a.m.12 p.m., Aud. A

Bead & Jewelry w/Brenda, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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

Morning News Discussions, 10-11

a.m.

Cardio Exercise w/Gail, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Hip-Hop Memory & Story Circle w/Su Casa Artist Ricardo, 1:15-2:15 p.m., Rm. 2

Body in Motion w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Leisure TV, 2-4 p.m.

LUNCH: KOSHER: Comforting Red Lentil Bolognese, Pearled Barley, Spiced Mixed Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Pork Roast w/ Mango Chutney, Brown Rice, Cooked Cabbage w/Shredded Carrots

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: No Dinner Served

NON-KOSHER: No Dinner Served

LUNCH: KOSHER Breaded Vegetable Cutlet, Garlic & Rosemary Roasted Potatoes, Cole Slaw

NON-KOSHER: Buffalo Chick Pea Power Grain Bowl, Macaroni Salad

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Beef and String Beans, Brown Rice, Steamed Mixed Vegetables, Orange; NON-KOSHER: Roasted Pork in Mango Chutney, Brown Rice, Cooked Cabbage w/Shredded Carrots, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: Teriyaki Baked Fish, Mexican Confetti Rice, Steamed Yellow Squash

NON-KOSHER: Black-eyed Peas Curry w/Potatoes & Tomatoes, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Teriyaki Baked Fish, Mexican Confetti Rice, Steamed Squash, Canned Apricot

NON-KOSHER: Baked Chicken, Mashed Sweet Potatoes, California Blend Vegetables, Orange

LUNCH : KOSHER: Grilled Chicken Breast, Brown Rice, Vegetables Mix

NON-KOSHER: Dairy Free Baked Ziti w/Turkey, Baby Carrots & Parsley

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Tuna Salad, Potato Salad, Cabbage and Beet Salad, Banana NON-KOSHER: Black-eyed Peas w/Potato & Tomato Curry, Instant Mashed Potato, Steamed Broccoli, Apple

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

Coloring for Calmness, 9:30-10:30 a.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, 2-4:30 p.m., Bartow OAC, Rm. 31

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coloring for Calmness, 9:3010:30 a.m.

p.m.

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

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

Su Casa Art w/TJ, 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.

Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1-2 p.m.

Health & Wellness 2.0 – Celebrating Each Other, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Let’s Get It on Zumba, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

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

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

Knitting & Crocheting, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

LUNCH : KOSHER: BBQ Chicken Leg Quarters, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Capri Blend Vegetables

NON-KOSHER: Spanish Chicken w/ Potatoes & Garlic, Yellow Rice

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

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

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

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

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

Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation. Must be 60 or older to become a JASA participant.

KOSHER: BBQ Chicken, Spinach Kugel or Rice, Capri Blend Vegetables, Canned Pineapple 10 GRAB AND GO NON-KOSHER: Baked Ziti w/Beef, Steamed Baby Carrots w/Parsley, Canned Mandarin

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

KOSHER: Vegetarian Three Bean Chili, Cornbread, Prince Edward Blend Vegetables, Orange

NON-KOSHER: Spanish Chicken w/Potatoes & Garlic, Yellow Rice, Steamed Green Beans, Orange

Traditional

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

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

General Information: The Traditional Synagogue 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

Synagogue of Co-op City Co-op City United Methodist Church

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

“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” — Luke 6:45, NIV

In today’s society, communication extends far beyond face-to-face conversations. We express ourselves through comments, posts, and countless social media interactions. When speaking in person, we are often mindful of tone and emotion. Yet in the digital era, that mindfulness can fade. Too often, we type before we think, forgetting that words—whether spoken or written—carry weight and can wound deeply.

Scripture reminds us that our words are not random; they flow from the condition of our hearts. Jesus teaches in Luke 6:45 that speech reveals what is stored within. If our hearts are filled with goodness, truth, and love, our words will uplift and encourage. But if our hearts harbor anger, bitterness, or deceit, our words will reflect those destructive forces.

Words are powerful indicators of character and profoundly influence relationships. As believers, we are called to model Christlike behavior in both speech and action. True righteousness and wholesome communication flow from a heart transformed by God. This means nurturing inner purity so that our words reflect divine love, truth, and integrity.

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, May 25, at 8:45 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, May 1, at 7:52 p.m.

Good and Welfare: The congregation welcomes donations in honor or memory of a loved one.Any amount is greatly appreciated. For information about the congregation and its services, please call 646-285-1206.

To All Members: Happy Birthday to all our members,who will be celebrating their birthday in May. 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

Before posting, commenting, or speaking, pause and ask: Does this reflect the love of Christ?

Will these words build up or tear down?

Do they reveal a heart aligned with God’s truth?

Also, before communicating with others, consider key biblical truths: Guard Your Heart: (Proverbs 4:23). What we allow into our hearts will shape our thoughts, words, and actions.

Be Slow to Speak: (James 1:19). Thoughtful silence often prevents regret. Speak with Grace: (Colossians 4:6). Words should preserve, heal, and bring life.

Avoid Corrupt Speech: (Ephesians 4:29). Our words should strengthen, not tear down.

May the Holy Spirit help us surrender our hearts to Christ, so that our words become instruments of encouragement, healing, and peace!

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.

Baptism and Membership Classes – Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. See Rev. Sara Upcoming Events – Save The Dates

Thursday, April 30 – LCOA Workshop: Praise Be To Health - Knowledge Is Wealth at 12 p.m.

Sunday, April 26 – English Service at 11:15 a.m. Escuela Dominical at 11:15 a.m. Servicio en Español at 12:30 p.m. G. Abadia

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#.

Tomorrow, Sunday, April 26, during our 11 a.m. service, we will hold our combined Men’s and Women’s Day celebration. The guest preacher will be Elder Ernest Thomas of the Historic Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ, Harlem, NY. The colors are white with a touch of purple. Everyone is invited.

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

Our next food giveaway will be distributed on Friday, May 8, 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.

Save the Dates. Our church’s 55th anniversary will be celebrated starting with a service on Friday night, November 13, followed by a banquet on Saturday, November 14, and ending with services all day on Sunday, November 15. The banquet on Saturday, November 14, will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Surf Club On The Sound, located at 280 Davenport Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10805. The ticket price is $155. Bus transportation will be provided at a separate cost of $25. The theme is “CCBC: Thriving in Excellence for 55 Years” from 1 Corinthians 15:57 (NKJV). We invite everyone to participate in this special weekend. For further information, kindly contact the church at 718-320-3774.

“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

FREE KIDS’ EVENT MOTHER’S DAY

Saturday, May 9 · 1–5pm

Bring the entire family and spend a FREE, fun-filled afternoon at The Mall at Bay Plaza.

Create a jewelry box, a lily handprint craft, and a necklace for mom.*

Dance along at the dance party with DJ Omar, featuring music, games, and prizes.

*While supplies last. For kids of all ages.

Level 3, Food Court OPENING