Bronxdale Houses Re-Named for 'Her Honor'

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Vol. 40 No. 5 www.nyc.gov/nycha June/July 2010 E U W

S S I Journal S inside Bronxdale Houses Re-named for ‘Her Honor’ this issue Bronx Neighbors Celebrate Homecoming for Justice Sonia Sotomayor JourVOL. 40 NO. 2 nalwww.nyc.gov/nycha new y ork city housing authority NYCHA Green Agenda brings more ‘green’ » read more on page 3

After concludingNew her speech,York United States City Supreme Court Housing Associate Justice Sonia SotomayorAuthority danced with students from the choir at her alma mater, Cardinal Spellman High School. public-private partnerships= By Heidi Morales jobs for residents » read more on page 5 “It is difficult to describe the emotions the name change, and hugged, kissed that I feel today,” U.S. Supreme Court “(My) most enduring and took pictures with neighbors from Justice Sonia Sotomayor told more than memories of these yesteryear and residents from today. 300 friends, relatives and residents, as Resident Association President NYCHA she choked back tears. “I lived in these projects involve Regina Howell told her fellow neighbors www.nyc.gov/nycha Houses during the most formative years my neighbors.” that, “TodayVOL. 40 marks NO. a 2 new beginning. Journalof my life. I think of the hours of laughter It represents a new day of inspiration I enjoyed as a child, the happy sounds for the families of this community, and of the Bronxdale playgrounds ringing in my ears.” especially for our most precious residents – our children.” On June 4, 2010, the development that Justice Renee Heard is one of those neighbors who got the Sotomayor grew up in was renamed the Justice Sonia chance to meet the woman who she hopes will inspire her The mayor’s message Sotomayor Houses and Community Center, the first daughter Alana Abdeen to pursue her dream of a career eat better, Live Longer time that the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) in law. “[The ceremony] was beautiful,” she said. “It was » read more on page 2 has named a development for a former, living resident. a wonderful experience for me and my daughters to see NYCHA, responding to a petition of residents, area someone come out of the projects and see what she was In her own words: volunteers and elected officials, agreed to rename the able to accomplish. I hope that the name change can reAd the full text of Justice Sonia former Bronxdale Houses in her honor. bring a change into our community.” continued on page 2 Sotomayor’s speech » read more on page 6 “It’s good to be home,” said Justice Sotomayor. “You have no idea the gift you have given me today. fast facts Thank you.” She recalled one of her fondest memories, when in 1968 she spotted Robert F. Kennedy from her second Sonia Sotomayor is one of floor window. “I had never before looked down on red three Justices currently on hair that bright!” said Justice Sotomayor, adding that it the U.S. Supreme Court from was through this chance encounter that her interest in New York City. The others are public service was awakened. Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Brooklyn) But undeniably, Justice Sotomayor said, her “most and Antonin Scalia (Queens). enduring memories of these projects involve my neigh- The only other NYCHA bors.” She was able to share this love of her community at development to be re-named a special reception before the ceremony held for residents after a former resident is Justice Sotomayor (center) and nycha Board Member Margarita López of the newly named Justice Sonia Sotomayor Houses. (far right) spend time with the residents at the development renamed in Rangel Houses in Manhattan, She thanked all those who participated in petitioning for her honor to the Justice Sotomayor Houses on June 4, 2010, in The Bronx. named for Ralph J. Rangel. 2 June/July 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

The Mayor’s Message

Earlier this month, we renamed one of the New York City Housing it will be expanded into other NYCHA Authority’s (NYCHA) developments – the Bronxdale Houses located on developments. Bruckner Boulevard in The Bronx – in honor of United States Supreme Court In addition, an afterschool program at Justice Sonia Sotomayor. The Justice Sonia Sotomayor Houses and Justice NYCHA specifically for young adults ages Sonia Sotomayor Community Center include 28 seven-story buildings 16-24 not only will promote healthy nutri- comprising 1,497 apartments that house nearly 3,500 residents. The United tion, but also will introduce food service States Supreme Court’s first Hispanic-American justice, Justice Sotomayor and culinary arts as potential career paths. grew up in the Bronxdale Houses from 1957 to1969. Justice Sotomayor’s These programs continue NYCHA’s story is unique, but it began like many – in a public housing development commitment to encouraging a healthy diet for residents. There are the with a single mother whose first language was not English and who worked more than 200 vegetable gardens in NYCHA developments citywide, and hard to put food on the table. Her achievements are an inspiration to millions our partnership with City Harvest provides free produce twice a month to of New Yorkers, especially young people, who can look to her story to see residents in four developments. the possibilities that await anyone with the courage and determination to We’ve also worked hard to improve your information about food, by follow a dream. requiring chain restaurants to post how many calories are in their food. Our Administration is working hard to ensure that all young NYCHA After we put the rule into effect, a study of one New York City chain found residents have the ability to follow their dreams – and part of that is helping that the number of calories in an average purchase decreased by 26%. them live longer, healthier lives. We will continue doing everything possible to help all children lead In May, I joined celebrity chef Rachael Ray to announce a new program healthy lives. I wish everyone a healthy summer filled with all the that helps children ages 9-12 understand how eating fresh food and preparing possibilities New York has to offer. their own meals can help them to lead longer, healthier lives. The program will help youth develop cooking skills, become conscientious consumers and make healthier food choices. If this summer pilot program is successful, Michael R. Bloomberg

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Bronxdale Houses Re-named for ‘Her Honor’ support all parents and help Justice’s mother Celina, but she a gospel-fused song, “Be Alana, Ms. Heard’s 12 year- to see that although you grew build the secure communities was not successful. “This is a Thankful.” The Justice then old daughter, won an essay up in the projects you can still that will be a safe haven, a first wonderful day. My two children shared her impressions of contest last summer and was become anything, if you put step and a fair start from which are wonderful and that’s all a the day in an exclusive chosen to accompany NYCHA your mind to it.” our young can and will build mother can ask for,” she said. interview with the Journal. Board Member Margarita “It truly takes a village to the world of tomorrow that is Justice Sonia Sotomayor, “They’re smaller, the build- López to attend Justice raise a child,” said NYCHA their dream.” who is of Puerto Rican descent, ings, than I remember them. Sotomayor’s confirmation Chairman John B. Rhea in his Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, moved into public housing When I was a kid they were ceremony, but did not have the remarks during the ceremony. a staunch supporter of public when she was three years skyscrapers, seven floors chance to meet her until the “Unfortunately, we cannot give housing and its residents, was old. She attended Cardinal seemed to touch the sky and re-naming event. “She’s a good every child the strong family on hand to unveil the new Spellman High School, today they are not skyscrapers role model for our community,” and courageous mother that signage for the Bronx devel- received her bachelor’s degree but they’re still home,” said said Alana. “She grew up in our so blessed Justice Sotomayor’s opment. “[Justice Sotomay- from Princeton University and Justice Sotomayor. “We speak projects and it’s good for kids life. But together we can or’s] achievements are an her law degree from Yale Law of life accomplishments and inspiration to millions of New School. After a 30-year career obviously becoming a Justice

new york city housing authority Yorkers, especially our NYCHA as an attorney and federal of the Supreme Court is one 76 residents young and old, who judge, Justice Sotomayor of the greatest life achieve- years NYCHA of Public Housing can look to her story to get a was confirmed in 2009 as an ments that one could have. NYCHA in New York City Journal glimpse of the possibilities Associate Justice of the U.S. But leaving a place bearing ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 that await anyone who has the Supreme Court. your name I hope will create

PublishedVOL. 40 NO. monthly2 by the Newwww York.nyc.gov/n Cityycha Housing Authority courage and determination to After the formal ceremony memories for some kid who Department of Communications follow a dream,” said Mayor at the Sotomayor Houses will grow up and think ‘who Jour250 Broadway,nal New York, N.Y. 10007 Bloomberg during his intro- came to an end, Justice Soto- is that person’ and learn new Tely ork (212) city 306-3322 housing • Fax (212) authorit 577-1358y duction of the day’s honoree. mayor spontaneously joined something about me and nyc.gov/nycha Michael R. Bloomberg �� Mayor The Sotomayor family was the Youth Choir from her I hope walk away a little John B. Rhea ��Chair beaming with pride and tried alma mater Cardinal Spellman inspired. If that happens then Earl Andrews, Jr. ��New York City Housing Authority Vice‑Chair hard to fight back tears of joy High School and together I’ve had the greatest success Margarita López �� Board Member Vilma Huertas �� Secretary and nostalgia, especially the they swayed joyously through anyone can have in life.” Michael Kelly �� General Manager LynnNY GodfreyCHA ��Chief Communications Officer Sheilawww . ny Stainbackc.gov/nycha Journal ��CommunicationsVOL. 40 NO. 2 Officer Eric Deutsch…….. ��Editor Justice Sonia Sotomayor Houses Joins More than Heidi Morales �� Editor, Spanish Edition Howard Silver �� Editor, NYCHA Bulletin 95 Other Developments Named for a Person Tischelle George ��Online News Editor Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza ��Photography Christian Nwachukwu ��Staff Writer n addition to the Bronxdale Houses being renamed for Supreme Court Justice Sonia Brent Grier �� Staff Intern ISotomayor, 98 other developments have been named after people over the years, If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please including presidents, civil rights leaders, musicians and athletes. To see the full list, call our marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue Development at (212) 306‑6614. The inclusion of any advertisement in this go to NYCHA’s website at www.nyc.gov/nycha. Journal does not constitute any endorsement by the Housing Authority of the advertiser or its products or services or any other representation by the Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. The Housing Authority Journal June/July 2010 3 Message from the Chairman Following is the speech, abridged, given by NYCHA Chair John B. Rhea on June 4, 2010, at the naming ceremony for the Justice Sonia Sotomayor Houses.

Today, we observe not the simple renam- ourselves to the spirit of collaboration, to harnessing the power of partner- ing of a development, but the recommit- ships and to the belief that great breakthroughs are possible when people work ment to a civic purpose and a common together. Indeed, perhaps that is the only way they are possible. As Frederick good. Today, we are seeing in our City Douglass once said, “We differ as the waves, but are one as the sea.” and our nation a renewal of what Winston NYCHA knows the power of a community that comes together. Today, Churchill famously called the ‘simple we are taking our message to potential partners in the public, non-profit and things’ – “All the great things are simple,” Churchill said. “And many can be private sectors and making the case that NYCHA’s story is their story. We expressed in a single word: Freedom; Justice; Honor; Duty; Mercy; Hope.” are joining hands and, along lines of common purpose, we are developing the These are the values that have kept us, and our parents before us; they have strategies to preserve, strengthen and secure the public and affordable housing preserved our nation and, indeed, our world; and they are the virtues that of tomorrow – to build not simply houses, but homes; not just developments, have stood like sentinels in the distinguished life and career of the woman we but communities. honor this afternoon – United States Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. We cannot do it alone. In a time of increasing pressure on our governments, I know Justice Sotomayor will agree with me when I say we have gath- the need to look beyond traditional alliances is even more acute. Today, I am ered this afternoon to do more than honor her continuing service and social excited to share with you that the Authority will inaugurate a new initiative right contribution. Today we mark a milestone achieved last August when Justice here, at the Justice Sonia Sotomayor Houses. In the coming months, NYCHA Sotomayor took the high court’s oath that is also a return to our nation’s first will launch a partnership campaign, titled “Clean, Green and Secure,” with or- principles – opportunity for all. We honor the promise of public housing, and ganizations who share our commitment to sustain the Justice Sotomayor Houses the promise of a community and a nation, which says “we can do more to- and all other NYCHA developments citywide. We will seek their help to sustain gether than alone.” And, hopefully, we kindle a fire in a young girl or boy who our buildings, apartments and grounds in a partnership that encourages commu- will now work a little harder, study a little longer, and be lifted a little higher nity volunteerism, resident engagement and corporate social responsibility. in the hope that with dreams, opportunity and a strong foundation, no fortune This is our pledge – to stand firm together, renewing the promise of public is too far, no path is too narrow, and no destination is beyond their reach. housing and meeting the challenges ahead with clarity of purpose and a shared Public housing was that strong foundation in Justice Sotomayor’s life and vision, with energy and creativity, and with resolve to ensure that this sacred New York City is as committed today as at any time in our history to ensure responsibility, this noble task, this public good not merely endures: but that it that public housing remains a bedrock for the generations to come. thrives. Public housing has been one of America’s pillars – helping our nation We can only accomplish this together. In the year since Mayor Bloomberg endure and prevail. I truly look forward to working together with all of you appointed me to serve as the Authority’s 21st Chairman, we have rededicated to ensure that it remains.

‘Green Guide’ Offers Tips that Save Energy

By Brent Grier • Making your own cleaning products he New York City Housing Authority with environmentally safe and cheap T(NYCHA) continues its efforts towards green household materials such as baking living and NYCHA residents are key partici- soda, white vinegar and lemon juice. pants in those plans. The latest undertaking is However small these may seem, these NYCHA’s ‘Green Guide,’ called “The Power conservation tips can help save energy that, is in Your Hands: A Resident’s Guide to Saving when added together, can make a significant Energy + the Environment.” Developed at the and positive environmental impact. Other NYCHA officials show a South African delegation the new energy-efficient pass request of NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea suggestions call for the help of outside steam boilers at Castle Hill Houses in The Bronx. and Environmental Coordinator, Commissioner sources. In that case, NYCHA residents can Margarita López, the ‘Green Guide’ responds call the Customer Contact Center, 24 hours NYCHA Green Agenda: to the public’s interest in embracing better a day, seven days a week, at 718-707-7771, The World Watches How “Cool” We Are energy consumption practices. The booklet which handles requests for both emergency advises residents about the best solutions and routine maintenance repairs. he New York City Housing program, begun in 2007, has to lower their carbon footprint and increase Saving energy affects both NYCHA and TAuthority’s (NYCHA) Green addressed high utility costs community awareness about sustainability. the environment as a whole, which makes the Agenda is making such a big and excessive energy usage. The Guide challenges residents to gauge public’s involvement the most important factor difference that it is attracting It has since turned into a their “green score” by answering a set of to make better living a reality. It is important to international attention. In late successful model for other questions about their everyday conserva- note that saving energy in public housing actu- spring, NYCHA welcomed the public housing authorities and tion behavior. But high scorers shouldn’t be ally has two benefits – it protects the environ- U.S. Trade and Development property owners worldwide. alarmed! Instead, they just should be willing to ment as well as everyone’s wallets. The ‘Green Agency (USTDA) from South The innovative energy heed the advice given throughout the Guide. Guide’ also shows residents that saving energy Africa, which wanted to learn management processes at Most of the tips are very easy to do, such as: does not require them to lose comfort. For how the premier Housing Castle Hill, including new • Taking shorter showers example, just one degree of wasted heat across Authority in the United States boilers, replacing existing hot • Washing laundry only when it is a full load all NYCHA developments costs $7.6 million. is using new technologies water tanks with instantaneous • Turning off/unplugging appliances when ‘Green Guides’ are available from the to become more financially hot water heaters and incan- not in use Resident Green Committee or at the sound with savvy energy descent light bulbs, have led • Closing curtains during warmer months quarterly Speaking Green Lecture Series. citizens. The South African to significant improvements • Using a fan instead of an air conditioner (or They also can be downloaded from officials toured the Castle in service to residents and at least buying an Energy Star air conditioner) NYCHA’s website at www.nyc.gov/nycha. Hill Houses development in reductions in costs and carbon the Bronx to see how a pilot emissions continued on page 9 4 June/July 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

The NYCHA Not Wanted List

In this issue we continue publishing the names of individuals who have been permanently excluded from our public housing developments. The purpose of this list is to keep residents informed of the Housing Authority’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers in public housing and to allow for the peaceful and safe use of our facilities. What follows is a partial list of the people excluded after hearings were held on January 20 and 27, 2010, and February 3 and 10, 2010.

Prohibited as of January 20, 2010 Warren Wilder Case 9048/09 formerly associated with the 6th fl., 4-24, Astoria Blvd., Astoria Houses, Queens Roosevelt McFadden Case 121/10 formerly associated with the 5th fl., 103 Nostrand Avenue, Marcy Houses, Brooklyn Jonathan Aliseo Case 125/10 formerly associated with the 1st fl., 773 Berry / Todt Hill House, Staten Island Deshawn Martin Case 7888/08 formerly associated with the 2nd fl., 99 North Portland Avenue, Whitman Houses, Brooklyn Kevin Davis, Karen Davis Case 8205/09 formerly associated with the 6th fl., 71-15 Beach Channel Drive, Hammel / Carlton Manor Houses, Queens Kristopher Plowden Case 8605/10 formerly associated with the 3rd fl., 928 Williams Avenue, Breukelen Houses, Brooklyn Michael McNeal Case 133/10 formerly associated with the 3rd fl., 3061 Avenue X, Sheephead Nostrand Houses, Brooklyn

Prohibited as of January 27, 2010 Have a Safe and Secure Family Day Andre Malone Case 305/10 associated with the 5th fl., This Summer 251 Osborn Street, Brownsville Houses, Brooklyn Jose Deliz Case 3010/09 associated with the 3rd fl., ith the summertime comes another year of Family Days for residents in New York City 159-48 Harlem River Dr., Rangel Houses, Manhattan WHousing Authority (NYCHA) developments. The Resident Associations are joining with Nadine Smith Case 328/10 associated with the 10th fl., NYCHA to plan days filled with fun activities for residents of all ages. The Safety and Security 128 Lewis Avenue, Roosevelt Houses, Brooklyn Task Force – comprised of residents; staff at NYCHA, NYPD, City Hall and the Department Michael Gray Case 148/10 associated with the 2nd fl., of Youth and Community Development; the District Attorney’s office; and other stakeholders 159-01 110th Avenue, South Jamaica, Queens – is working to ensure that these celebrations are enjoyable and safe occasions for NYCHA residents and their guests. Prohibited as of February 3, 2010 Raul Figueroa Case 6862/09 formerly associated with With this in mind, please be In addition, the following Please do the following: the 11th fl., 750 E. 163rd Street, McKinley Houses, Bronx mindful of the guidelines activities are not allowed at • Have fun! each development must Family Day events: Ada Brundage, Frank Brundage, Kyra Golden Case 7767/09 follow for their Family Day: • Join in the planned formerly associated with the 1st fl., 106-02 Glenwood Rd. • Sale or consumption of activities Breukeln Houses, Brooklyn • All events must receive alcoholic beverages NYCHA approval • Introduce yourself to Alex Arzon Case 348/10 formerly associated with the • Any form of gambling NYPD and NYCHA 15th fl., 230 Clinton Street, LaGuardia Houses, Manhattan • Events start at 12:00 pm • Any other form of illegal staff attendees Asian Graves Case 439/10 formerly associated with the and end no later than activity • Introduce yourself to 11th fl., Roosevelt Houses, Brooklyn 8:00 pm • Any sale of tickets or raffles your neighbors • Any music should be turned unless prior Authority • Eat healthy Prohibited as of February 10, 2010 off by 7:00 pm – sound approval has been granted permits issued by NYPD Franklin Berry by the Community Opera- Working together, we can Case 8689/09 formerly associated with the are required 13th fl., 159-70 Harlem River Dr., Rangel Houses, Manhattan tions Borough Director continue to provide safe Nimrod Martinez Case 8072/09 formerly associated with the • Any commercial enterprise and secure housing into 4th fl., 30 Manhattan Avenue, Borinquen Houses, Brooklyn unless prior Authority the future. So invite your approval has been granted family, have fun and rejoice Ralph Salazar Case 478/10 formerly associated with the during your Family Day! 4th fl., 177 Nagle Avenue, Dyckman Houses, Manhattan by the Community Operations Borough Affan Burrows, Derrick Coleman, Kareem Allen Case 5736/09 Director formerly associated with the 14th fl.,1980 Park Avenue, Lincoln Houses, Manhattan Quintin White Case 680/10 formerly associated with the 6th fl., 719 Kingsborough Walk, Kingsborough Houses, Brooklyn Coming in the August NYCHA Journal: Shameka Jackson Case 661/10 formerly associated with the 6th fl., 296 Sutter Avenue, Brownsville Houses, Brooklyn • Coverage of the Resident Watch • A new training academy gets residents Joesph Mojica, Harry Ali Case 487/10 formerly associated with kickoff event, part of the Authority’s ready for some football, as they wear the 2nd fl., 3340 Bailey Avenue, Ft. Independence Houses, Bronx Safety and Security Task Force the zebra stripes and learn how to be Jason Lewis Case 722/10 formerly associated with the 3rd fl., an NFL referee 3340 Bailey Avenue, Ft. Independence Houses, Bronx The Housing Authority Journal June/July 2010 5

Public-Private Partnerships NYCHA Board Meetings = Jobs for Residents otice is hereby given that the New York City Housing NAuthority’s (NYCHA) Board Meetings take place every other Wednesday at 10:00 am in the Board Room on the 12th floor of 250 Broadway, New York, New York (unless otherwise noted). The remaining meetings for Calendar Year 2010 are as follows:

July 7, 2010 October 13, 2010 July 21, 2010 October 27, 2010 August 4, 2010 November 10, 2010 August 18, 2010 November 24, 2010 September 1, 2010 December 8, 2010 September 15, 2010 December 22, 2010 September 28, 2010 (Tuesday)

Any changes to the schedule above will be posted here Shown is Lloyd Gray, of Highbridge Gardens, at work as a mason tender. He received his job through a program similar to and on NYCHA’s website at www.nyc.gov/nycha to the the NYCHA-Robin Hood partnership. extent practicable at a reasonable time before the meeting. Unique Program will Train Through this partnership, kindergarten through 12th These meetings are open to the public. Pre-registration Public Housing Residents NYCHA is able to maximize grade at St. Nicholas Houses of speakers is required. Those who wish to register must for Real Jobs economic opportunity and in Manhattan, a joint effort do so at least forty-five (45) minutes before the scheduled Public housing residents soon career advancement for resi- between NYCHA and the Board Meeting. Comments are limited to the items on the will have the opportunity to dents in its public housing Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ). Calendar. Speakers will be heard in the order of registration. receive training that will help developments.” The school will serve 1,300 Speaking time will be limited to three (3) minutes. The public them find jobs with the New In the pilot launch of the students and is scheduled comment period will conclude upon all speakers being heard York City Housing Authority project, Robin Hood will to open in September 2011. or at the expiration of thirty (30) minutes allotted by law for (NYCHA) and its contractors. provide $750,000 in funding Children living in St. Nicholas public comment, whichever occurs first. NYCHA and Robin Hood for three training organizations Houses will have first prefer- Copies of the Calendar are available on NYCHA’s have formed a partnership to to provide training in janito- ence for the entering kinder- website or can be picked up at the Office of the Secretary create an innovative training rial and general construction garten class. at 250 Broadway, 12th floor, New York, New York, no academy for NYCHA resi- work. Residents will be trained The HCZ / St. Nicholas earlier than 3:00 pm on the Friday before the upcoming dents. Qualified graduates to begin their careers in Care- Houses Project follows the Wednesday Board Meeting. Copies of the Disposition are will be placed either in jobs taker and light construction Obama administration’s vision also available on NYCHA’s website or can be picked up at as Caretakers with NYCHA positions at NYCHA and with for community revitaliza- the Office of the Secretary no earlier than 3:00 pm on the or in construction jobs with NYCHA contractors. NYCHA’s tion that challenges housing Thursday after the Board Meeting. NYCHA contractors. Office of Resident Employ- authorities to integrate Any person requiring a reasonable accommodation in The initiative is the largest ment Services (RES) will housing, schools, commercial order to participate in the Board Meeting, should contact of its kind in a U.S. city, and conduct outreach and recruit- corridors, community facilities, the Office of the Secretary at (212) 306-6088 no later will create a NYCHA Training ment, provide preliminary improved infrastructure and than five (5) business days before the Board Meeting. Academy that will train up to assessment and assist with transportation into neighbor- For additional information, please visit NYCHA’s 150 residents. The one-year job placement. hood development plans. website or call (212) 306-6088. pilot project is scheduled to “This effort is part of “This facility will be the begin in Fall 2010. Based on Robin Hood’s broader effort epitome of what NYCHA’s the program’s success, Robin to reduce poverty and boost Office of Public-Private Part- Hood will consider additional the earnings of low-income nerships can accomplish,” said funding that will train up to New Yorkers,” said David Chairman Rhea. “The HCZ / 1,000 residents for additional Saltzman, Executive Director St. Nicholas Houses Project jobs, adding other provider of Robin Hood. significantly will enhance not partners and employment Recruitment for the Training just the development, but the sectors, such as extermina- Academy will begin later this surrounding community also.” tion services. summer. Interested residents HCZ anticipates the “Robin Hood and NYCHA can take advantage of other creation of approximately 100 have created this public- NYCHA RES opportunities. long-term jobs at the new private partnership to help The phone number for RES school, including teachers, residents acquire the neces- is 718-289-8100. administrative staff, security sary skills to succeed in the guards, maintenance workers workplace, to get good jobs St. Nicholas Houses Charter and after-school program staff. and build careers that will School Will Benefit All Resi- They will recruit aggressively serve as a model moving dents through Job Opportuni- from residents of St. Nicholas forward,” said NYCHA ties and Community Center Houses and the surrounding Chairman John B. Rhea. Another recent success of community to fill the antici- “With assistance from NYCHA’s Office of Public- pated openings. NYCHA also Robin Hood, now we can Private Partnerships is the will work with HCZ to recruit train people for jobs that announcement of a new St. Nicholas Houses residents match our workforce needs. charter school for grades continued on page 10 6 June/July 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

In the Justice’s Own Words Following is the speech, as prepared, given by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor on June 4, 2010.

am so very grateful to After we first left this place to the empty lots that Ithe many people who and moved elsewhere in surrounded the projects and participated in making this The Bronx, my family would tell me about the kinds of day possible. I thank Mayor come back often. Some of our stores that would eventu- Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg (left) and NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea Bloomberg, Chairman Rhea, closest friends continued to ally be built on that land. (right) congratulate Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor after her speech at the Justice Sonia Sotomayor Houses on June 4, 2010. Vice-Chairman Andrews, live here for many years. As One night, as we sat by the Member Margarita Lopez time went by, my physical visits window, my dad pointed at and I would often sit by mirror, I think of the hours and the other Members of back became fewer, but I have the sky and told me that a the window and talk about of laughter I enjoyed as a the New York City Housing always remained emotionally man would someday land the world we saw outside. child, the happy sounds of Authority. I also thank the connected to these Houses. on the moon. He did not Whenever I drive by her the Bronxdale playgrounds many residents who signed Each time I drive south live long enough to see the block, I imagine abuelita ringing in my ears. petitions, and everyone on Bruckner Boulevard, stores built or to hear about watching me as I go by. When I was told this who worked to organize this I see “my” projects. The the moon landing. But every As I drive still further, I event would be held at the event. Most importantly, I first building I come to is time I drive by our building, I pass the White Castle on Bronxdale Houses Commu- thank my mom, Celina, for 1825 Bruckner Boulevard – imagine my dad watching me Rosedale Avenue – the nity Center and that 300 having had the foresight the building I moved into from that window as I go by. landmark that signifies the people would attend, I knew to move our family to the when I was three. From the Driving further south on geographical end of the it was physically impossible; Bronxdale Houses when I highway, you can see the Bruckner, I come to the block projects. Seeing it makes me the center I remembered was three years old. window of my corner unit on of buildings that my grand- recall the hamburger-eating was simply not that big. It is difficult to describe the seventh floor. My dad parents lived in for awhile. competitions that my cousins The community center of the emotions that I feel spent hours looking out of Their building was only a and I would occasionally my youth was in the ground today. I lived in these Houses that window. When we first block from our complex. But hold. (I should note that while floor of the building – 1810 during the most formative moved here, my dad’s family “my” block was my life, and I remember them fondly, Watson Avenue – that we years of my life. Memories thought we were moving to visiting them was like going these competitions are not moved into after my dad from that period have been the middle of nowhere. There to another part of the world. something in which I would died. Our second-floor flooding my mind for the was something to that. Nevertheless, there were encourage kids to participate apartment overlooked the past month. It has been But my dad would look certain similarities. Like my today.) Finally, as the White entrance to that center, and too long since I last visited. out the window and point father and I, my grandmother Castle recedes in the rearview I can tell continued on page 7 The Housing Authority Journal June/July 2010 7

In the Justice’s Own Words and went. I was so curious nity can answer the challenge. Authority. It is important for so grateful for all they have continued from page 6 to know more about him but For me, and for those the broader community to given me in my life. And I am you that center, in compar- was too timid to ask ques- who still live here, it is essen- remain committed to assisting honored to now be formally ison to this one, was tiny. tions. My mom asked for me, tial that the vibrancy of this the residents of this place so associated with this commu- Despite its limited size, and I learned so much about community be maintained. I that other little Sonias will nity. Thank you so much for the old center holds a place life and its challenges from know the Mayor understands reach their dreams. sharing this joyous day with of enormous stature in my listening to their exchanges. the struggles of this commu- I am deeply humbled and me and for creating another memories. One afternoon in I also remember two grand- nity, as do the members touched that these Houses special memory of this very the spring of 1968, I looked mothers – one Jewish and one of the New York Housing will now bear my name. I am special place. down from my second-floor Black – who were raising their window to see Robert F. grandchildren in adjoining Kennedy, the brother of buildings. From them, I President John F. Kennedy, learned about the importance who was coming to visit our of family and how it trans- community center. I had lates in different cultures. I never before looked down also observed the strength of on red hair that bright! A those women as they faced few days later, I went to the the challenges of advancing library to learn more about age while raising their grand- him, and I was captivated children on their own. by his career. Through this I remember Ana, the chance encounter above the woman who looked after us old community center, my while my mom worked and interest in public service who is still my mom’s best was awakened. friend. There was also Eliza, In learning that this new who lived in the building community center had taken next to ours and who, to the old center’s place, I real- help my mom and me, ized that, like a certain three- made my wedding dress. year-old girl who had lived And I remember Christiana, there so many years ago, my who lived in the building projects had grown up. We on the other side of ours; I had both gotten bigger, and remember how she grieved with some attendant improve- after losing a son to the lure ments. But along the way, we of drugs. From these people, both have aged. I learned the importance of They were only a few years family and community, and old when I moved into the I saw how the lessons of Bronxdale Houses. Bright hope and the challenges to and cheery, they held out it helped us through our own the promise of a better life life struggles. for its residents, almost all of It was here in these build- whom had, like my parents, ings, and in the community come from tenements that I just described, that I came had been condemned or into awareness – that I came were near condemnation. As into myself. On occasion I I learned over time, however, saw the worst in people here. it was not the physical space More often, however, I saw of the buildings that held the best in people here. out the greatest hope for us. Today, these buildings It was the people who lived are home to many other here who transformed these little Sonias and little Juans buildings into a community. who are growing up in their The members of that commu- own extended family. There nity sustained each other are other moms and dads, and helped the next genera- other grandparents, other tion to grow. Anas, Elizas and Christianas, Of my many childhood all struggling, surviving and memories of these projects, growing in this place. It is still the most enduring involve my the people here that make neighbors. I remember vividly these buildings a commu- the Korean War veteran, nity. And through those John, who lived in our people, the spirit of this place building. He often sat in front endures. Whatever growing of the building in his wheel- pains attend the buildings’ chair, watching us as we came advancing age, this commu- 8 June/July 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

Young Students Display Their S-K-I-L-L-S at NYCHA Spelling Bee

NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea (left of center) and United States Congressman Ed Towns (center) meet with NYCHA resident leaders and elected officials on June 12, 2010. Congressman Towns (D-Brooklyn) holds an annual get-together for NYCHA residents in his district that allows them to discuss issues directly with NYCHA and New York City Police Department Housing Bureau officials.

(Left to right) Jelani Stuart, Toniann Williams, Deanna Consuegra, Terrel Heard, Prospect Plaza Revitalization Plan Tonyka Overby and Kiara Harley Takes the Next Step ome of the brightest the After-School All-Stars he New York City Housing vision, goals, designs and in Queens, was one of the Schildren who live in New of New York. T Authority (NYCHA) has implementation steps that attendees at the workshop. York City Housing Authority The NYCHA Citywide Spelling made it a priority to rede- provides a blueprint to make “Business would definitely (NYCHA) residences Bee Champions were: velop and revitalize Prospect Prospect Plaza a vibrant be good when things got showed off their abilities 4th grade Plaza in Brooklyn. To help place to live. The result of started. You would get the at the fifth annual NYCHA Terrel Heard, Seth Low Community Center, winning word: latitude achieve this goal, NYCHA this collaboration was shared residents and more people, Citywide Spelling Bee on 5th grade Kiara Harley, Berry held a three-day community with stakeholders at the and then business would June 2. The human Community Center, winning word: planning workshop in June workshop’s final presentation move toward that,” he said. dictionaries stood poised icicles at the Van Dyke Community and will guide the redevelop- “It seems like NYCHA was under pressure and 6th grade Deanna Consuegra, Center, attended by more ment of Prospect Plaza. The saying that they want the impressed the audience at Boston Secor Community Center, winning word: brokenhearted than 100 former Prospect community plan includes a building to blend in with the the Williamsburg Commu- The runners-up were: Plaza residents, community mix of housing types, green community, which is good. nity Center in Brooklyn with 4th grade members, local leaders and space, community space and (NYCHA) Chairman Rhea their vocabulary skills. Tonyka Overby, Gun Hill Community Center elected officials. retail space. sounds like a man of his All winners will receive a 5th grade Toniann Williams, The Re-Vision Prospect Cerrone Williams, a former word. I appreciate that. It’s $200 savings bond, and the Gun Hill Community Center Plaza workshop gathered Prospect Plaza resident who a good first step and there’s runners-up will receive a $50 6th grade Jelani Stuart, Rutgers input from participants on currently lives in Baisley Park got to be other steps.” savings bond, sponsored by Community Center The Housing Authority Journal June/July 2010 9

continued from page 3 NYCHA Green Agenda: The World Watches How “Cool” We Are into the environment. and installation of apart- Some of its key partners PlaNYC of making a Greener energy, NYCHA is adding the Overall utility costs at the ment temperature sensors. include the Clinton Climate and Greater New York City. ‘Cool Roofs’ program, which Bronx development peaked The project also included Initiative and the Office Another component of will be vital in our continued at $7 million in 2008, but in upgrading all interior lighting of Long Term Planning PlaNYC in partnership with efforts to preserving our planet 2009 the costs already were in public spaces and apart- and Sustainability which NYCHA’s Green Agenda is and public housing for future down to $6.4 million. NYCHA ments with more energy created PlaNYC 2030, the Cool Roofs Program. generations.” Commissioner and Environ- efficient lighting. Mayor Bloomberg’s long- This is an innovative effort to A cool roof absorbs mental Coordinator Margarita The Wireless Energy term sustainability plan reduce cooling costs, energy 80 percent less heat than López, who runs the Author- Modules, or apartment for New York City. usage and carbon emissions traditional dark colored roofs ity’s thriving sustainability temperature sensors, have a Any long-term strategic by applying reflective, white and can lower roof tempera- program, told the South built-in radio communication plan also must include resi- coating to rooftops. This city- tures by up to 60 degrees African delegation that device that feeds back indi- dents as active partners. In wide program is designed to and indoor temperatures by “‘Green’ brings green; it vidual apartment tempera- less than a year, NYCHA has cool one million square feet 10 to 20 degrees on hot days. goes together.” tures into the Computerized created 37 volunteer-based of rooftop and NYCHA is one The decrease in tempera- Households in the Castle Heating Automated System. Resident Green Committees of the participating partners; ture reduces the need for air Hill development cost NYCHA This ensures the building who play a critical role in the Housing Authority already conditioning, lowering elec- $42 more than the Authority zone valves are regulated for helping the Authority achieve has identified approximately tric bills and reducing energy pays on average per month optimum heat distribution, its sustainability goals of 100,000 square feet of rooftop consumption. Cool roofs in energy and water costs. To which prevents over-heating preserving public housing and to be coated on its buildings. also can extend the life of a address the aging building conditions and improves the planet while reducing its “NYCHA is fully committed roof by five to 10 years by system infrastructure and its the overall efficiency of the operating costs. Each Resident to identifying and imple- reducing the stress caused excessive energy consump- system and enhances resi- Green Committee member menting the most innovative by extreme heat. tion, Castle Hill Houses was dents’ comfort. The sensors signs a pledge to adopt a and cost-efficient solutions to By participating in the Cool chosen for the energy effi- also provide the ability to low-carbon lifestyle. Since its help reduce our impact on the Roofs Program, and sharing the ciency pilot program. The monitor the apartments’ inception in 2007, the Green environment,” said Commis- Green Agenda ideas with the program included upgrading electrical usage. Agenda has allowed NYCHA sioner López. “Through our world, the Housing Authority is the existing aging central NYCHA’s Green Agenda is to become more energy Green Agenda, a series of taking proactive steps towards boiler plant and an associated based on collaborative efforts efficient, reduce its carbon green initiatives that reduce preserving public housing for heating distribution system, with third party organizations. footprint and fulfill the goal of greenhouse gases and conserve generations to come.

2010 Summer Food Service Program BRONX BROOKLYN MANHATTAN QUEENS FREE Nutitious Andrew Jackson Moore 300 Vernon/Sumner Long Island Baptist A. Phillip Randolph Carlton Manor Breakfast and Lunch 285 Courtland Ave. 674 East 149th St. 300 Vernon Ave. 428 Sheffield Ave. 251 W. 114th St. 75-15 Beach Channel Bronx River Morris 303 Vernon/Sumner Louis Armstrong Carver Hammel Available Citywide 5185 E. 174 St. To be announced 303 Vernon Avenue 415 Lexington Ave. 1481 Madison Ave. 85-10 Rockaway Beach Blvd. Castle Hill (212) 306-3358 572 Warren/Wyckoff Marcus Garvey Douglas Rehabs 615 Castle Hill Ave. Morrisania Air 572 Warren St. 10 Amboy St. 241 West 101st St. Ocean Bay Apartments Claremont Consol. I Rights Bed Stuy Rehab Marcy Dyckman 339 Beach 54th St. 1128 Findley Ave. 3131 Park Ave. 701 Willoughby Ave 604 Park Ave. 3782 10th Ave. Claremont Consol. II Mott Haven Breukelen Marlboro Frederick Douglass 373 East 141st St. 1195 Clay Ave. 254 Stanley Ave. 2249 Stillwell Ave. 830 Columbus Ave. STATEN ISLAND Murphy #1D #1H Claremont Cosol. III Fred Samuels Richmond Terrace 1805 Crotona Ave. 1020 College Ave. Brownsville Park Rock Consol. 2401 Adam Clayton 151 Jersey St. Sedgwick 295 Osborne Street 1636 Park Pl. Powell Blvd. Claremont Consol. IV Stapleton 140 West 174th St. 3820 3rd Ave. Bushwick Pink Ft. Washington 75 Hill St. #1H 24 Humboldt St. 1258 Loring Ave. Consol. Davidson (Union Ave.) Todt Hill Beginning Thursday, July 8, 2010 Soundview 500 W. 165th St. 819 East 167th St. Coney Island Prospect Plaza 204 Schmidts Ln. Ending Friday, August 27, 2010 1704 Seward Ave. Eastchester 3030 Surfside Ave. 281 Dumont Ave. George Washington 1955 2nd Ave. Youth 18 years old and younger 1216 Burke Ave. Union Avenue Cooper Park Ralph Avenue Rehab 834 Eagle Ave. 275 Jackson St. 1196 East New York Lower East Side Meals are served Edenwald 1154 E. 229 St. Webster/Morrisania Cypress Ave. Group 5 Monday through Friday 89-97 Avenue C, #5D To be announced 465 Fountain Ave. Red Hook East Breakfast 9:00am - 10:00am Gunhill (212) 306-3358 To be announced Fiorentino Plaza 167 Bush St., #1B Seward Park Lunch 12:00pm - 1:00pm 64-66 Essex St. (212) 306-3358 2155 Pitkin Ave. Red Hook West For additional information Ft. Independence Gravesend 428 Columbia St. St. Nicholas 2374 Eighth Ave. please call 311 or 3340 Bailey Ave., #8L 2793 West 33rd St. Roosevelt (212) 306-3358 Highbridge Howard Ave. Rehabs 109 Lewis Ave. Straus 243 E. 27th St., #2F 125 West 166th St. 583 Howard Ave. Tilden Marble Hill Hylan 340 Dumont Ave. Wilson To be announced 210 West 230th St. 131 Moore St. Tompkins/Berry (212) 306-3358 Mitchell Kingsboro 71 Berry St. Wise Towers 360 East 137th St. 135 Kings 1st Walk Unity Plaza 117 W. 90th St. Monroe Linden Houses 580 Blake Ave. 1790 Story Ave. 195 Cozine Ave. Wyckoff Gardens 185 Nevins St. #14K 10 June/July 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

continued from page 5 Public-Private Partnerships = Jobs for Residents for construction jobs. community use, including making “We are excited to have this oppor- the school gym available afterschool tunity to create not just a great school and on weekends all year round. and community center for the residents HCZ will offer free programming for of St. Nicholas Houses, but to create children and adults. The building a model for what public housing can will have security 24 hours a day. offer people across the nation,” said Construction is scheduled to Geoffrey Canada, President and start later this summer. For more CEO of Harlem Children’s Zone. information on the HCZ / St. Free Music for Summer 2010 The school building also will Nicholas Houses Project, go to ne of the best ways to enjoy the summer is to take in a concert outdoors. serve as a neighborhood resource the Harlem Children’s Zone website OThere are many free concerts this summer across the city in various styles, by providing available space for at www.hcz.org/stnicholas. including jazz, rap and rock n’ roll. Groups include the Black Eyed Peas as part of the Good Morning America Concert Series at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park on July 30 and Aretha Franklin in Brooklyn on August 9 and August 12. NYCHA has compiled a list of all of them for your use, you can check it out at our website at www.nyc.gov/nycha.

Good News for Medicare Part D Recipients Beneficiaries who reach the coverage gap “donut hole” this year will receive STAY COOL THIS SUMMER! a one-time $250 refund check. It should Cooling centers are facilities located be received within 45 days from the throughout the five boroughs that day you reach the coverage gap. The are air-conditioned and open to the check is sent out automatically so there public. When the city declares a Heat is no need to apply. If you have any Emergency, cooling centers stay questions call 1-800-633-4227 and open late and also may be open on say “agent” to speak to a Medicare weekends. Call 311 to find a cooling representative. center near you.