Vol. 36, No. 9 www.nyc.gov/nycha SEPTEMBER 2006 23 RESIDENTS GRADUATE FROM ‘STRIVE’ CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM By Heidi Morales

IT WAS A WARM AND BREEZY DAY. A CRISP WHITE TENT FELL OVER THE HEADS OF THE SMARTLY DRESSED MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN. The cool breeze created a wave of royal blue fabric — the classic hue used at grad- uations. Smiling, bright-eyed faces were everywhere. This was a new beginning for many. On the 20th of July, Mayor Construction Opportunity recom- Michael R. Bloomberg hosted a mended this program as a way to graduation ceremony for the first generate opportunities for people class of STRIVE Construction who lack the necessary job skills Skills program graduates at Gracie and/or a high school diploma. Mansion. Twenty-three NYCHA “The future could not be residents graduated from the pro- brighter,” Mayor Bloomberg said. gram and have moved on to a pre- “You know there are going to be apprenticeship program sponsored lots of jobs in this industry going by Construction Skills 2000 forward and you know they’re ON BROADWAY NYCHA execs and staff joined elected officials, resident leaders and young residents at the (CS2K), where they have been going to be very well-paid jobs.” West Brighton Community Center Ribbon Cutting. Shown here (at ribbon, left to right) are: NYCHA Secretary receiving hands-on training in Vilma Huertas, DFTA Assistant Commissioner Jorge Romano, Board Member Margarita López, General preparation for a full apprentice- Francisco Morales Manager Douglas Apple (back row), City Council Member Michael McMahon, Staten Island Borough ship with a construction trades Francisco Morales, 26, of Management Director Carolyn Jasper (back row), Chairman Tino Hernandez, Assembly Member John LaVelle, union this fall. NYCHA’s Riis Houses, agrees. Center Director Shirlene Bonner, Staten Island Community Operations Director Carl Billington, and “This is the first of its kind and He’s so enthusiastic about his Staten Island Patrol Bureau Captain Richard Gutch. The Community Center is located at 230 Broadway. it’s particularly exciting because prospects within the trade that he this group really is so inspiring. dedicated all of his time to his WEST BRIGHTON COMMUNITY CENTER That’s because so many of you preparation at STRIVE and was have already faced so much and able to graduate at the top of his GRAND OPENING IN STATEN ISLAND yet you’ve made the commitment class. But Mr. Morales’s story has- to strive for more,” Mayor n’t always had a happy ending. By Eileen Elliott Bloomberg said as he addressed When met with obstacles, he’s the graduates. given up in the past but now he has WITH THE TEMPERATURE CLIMBING INTO THE HIGH NINETIES ON THE EARLY AFTERNOON OF JULY 31ST, CITY HOUS- The STRIVE Construction a fresh start. ING AUTHORITY (NYCHA) RESIDENTS FROM STATEN ISLAND’S WEST BRIGHTON HOUSES AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITY Skills program prepares workers “I attribute my shortcomings to SEEMED HAPPY ENOUGH TO CHILL OUT IN THE NEWLY RENOVATED AND EXPANDED WEST BRIGHTON COMMUNITY CENTER. They for jobs in the construction trades [lack of] patience. If I would’ve were joined there by NYCHA executive staff and elected officials to celebrate the Center’s jubilant “offi- creating a path to unionized jobs. had more patience I would’ve been cial” grand opening with a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony. As Community Operations Staten Island The Mayor’s Commission on (Continued on page 12) Borough Director Carl Billington told the crowd seated in the airy, new auditorium, “I would like to say we’ll be doing great things in the future but we’re doing great things now.” Mr. Billington was referring to advantage of programs and the auditorium and surrounding the fact that the West Brighton activities in the renovated spaces. Highlights of the $3.85 Community Center opened 5,800 square foot Senior Cen- million project include a new unofficially in November 2005. ter, which is also located in the audio-visual production room, a Since then, children, teens and building, operated by Staten computer lab, ceramic and game adults have been enjoying a Island University Hospital. rooms, a color video security sys- variety of programs at the At 11,800 square feet total, tem and — very important — a NYCHA-run Community Center, the facility has more than dou- state-of-the-art computer con- while seniors have been taking bled in size with the addition of trolled heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. NYCHA Chairman Tino Her- nandez commended everyone involved in the Center’s three- year renovation process, point- ing out in particular NYCHA’s General Manager Douglas Apple, without whom, he said, the pro- ject would not have moved for- ward; and long-time West Brighton Resident Association CONSTRUCTIVE FUTURES Mayor Bloomberg (center) and NYCHA President Rosetta Newcombe. General Manager Douglas Apple join the 54 graduates of the STRIVE EVEN BRIGHTER The newly renovated and expanded West Brighton Mr. Hernandez emphasized the Construction Skills program at Gracie Mansion. Twenty-three of the Community Center in Staten Island. (Continued on page 5) new graduates are NYCHA residents. PAGE 2 PAGE 3 PAGES 10 & 11 BECOME A NEW YORK IMPORTANT SCHOOL SUMMER PHOTO CITY FIREFIGHTER REGISTRATION INFORMATION SPREAD THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 2 SEPTEMBER 2006

MAYOR’S MESSAGE BRONX SOUTH COLLEGE-BOUND GRADUATION The FDNY Is Recruiting NYCHA Residents Utilize Tenant Participation Activity Funds Firefighters from Diverse Backgrounds By Allan Leicht THREE BRONX SOUTH NYCHA IF YOU ARE A YOUNG PERSON WHO DEVELOPMENTS HAVE BEEN LEAD- MAY HAVE NEVER CONSIDERED PUB- ING THE WAY IN THE USE OF TENANT PARTICIPATION ACTIVITY (TPA) LIC SERVICE, I ENCOURAGE YOU TO FUNDS. TPA funds are allocated by ANSWER THE CALL AND BECOME the Department of ONE OF NEW YORK’S BRAVEST. On Housing and Urban Development August 7th, the first day of open (HUD) specifically for public filing for the fire- housing residents to finance a fighter exam, I joined Fire Com- variety of initiatives to promote missioner Nicholas Scoppetta to community involvement and launch the new FDNY recruitment improvement, self-sufficiency and campaign — “The Best Job in the leadership. Spearheaded by Bronx World Has the Best Benefits in the South Council Of Presidents Dis- World.” You may already have seen trict Chair and Highbridge Houses GRADS Resident Association President Desmond Adams (left) and Demitri Winds (right) with SCG the ads around the City or on tele- Director of Education Akosua Agyeman. vision, or heard them on the radio. Joanne Smitherman, three such programs came to fruition on “This is a phenomenal pro- “At Success Consultancy Aimed at increasing diversity within the Fire Department, the adver- Sunday, July 30th. gram for young black people to Group we are going back to the tising campaign features FDNY firefighters touting the benefits of A gala Awards Ceremony and get up and start doing something ‘Old School,’ ” said SCG Presi- joining the Department, including flexible work schedules, generous Dinner at the Black National The- not only for themselves but for dent Jacques Le Andre as he benefits and the ability to retire after 20 years of service. Coupled with ater on Fifth Avenue brought their community also,” said stu- described the process by which an intensive citywide outreach campaign at career fairs, athletic clubs, residents from three Bronx devel- dent Tynique M. Moore. “But that the programs provided a calcu- colleges, cultural events and churches, the innovative advertising cam- opments to on a is not the only thing that inspired lated intervention in the lives of paign began at the end of August. steamy summer Sunday to me to join; it was also the fact that the young people. “Some of our The strength of the Fire Department lies in its members and celebrate the outstanding achieve- it was started by a group of proud brothers do not make the right increasing the diversity of the FDNY will strengthen the greatest fire ments of teenagers who have black successful people. Just that choices. That’s the time — when department in the world. Being a firefighter is a great job with great charted a course to higher educa- alone makes me so happy and you see a person on a street corner benefits. The flexible work schedules and generous benefits after tion. Over 20 teens, their families excited to see others like me mak- —that’s the time to go and tap him retirement mean that firefighters have an unusually good opportu- and friends gathered for the cul- ing it,” the teenager said. on the shoulder and turn him in mination of three separate The climax of the programs, the right direction. And that’s the nity to balance work and family life. Firefighters have lifelong med- 16-week programs, all conducted which began on March 21st, was reason these people got up every ical coverage, a pension after 20 years and significant growth by the Success Consultancy a four-day tour from July 13th Saturday morning and came down opportunities. This chance only comes once every four years — so Group (SCG): the Patterson through the 16th of five college for these programs.” make sure to apply. Houses Youth Leadership Pro- campuses. Accompanied by vol- Mr. Le Andre and Mr. Karikari The open exam filing period runs from August 7th to October 13th. gram, the Forest Houses Youth unteer parents, chaperones and recalled their own life choices, The Fire Department will maintain contact with interested candi- Leadership Program and the teachers, the teens visited Hamp- which brought them together and dates to assist them in navigating the application process. The Recruit- Butler/Mill Brook Houses Col- ton University and Norfolk State led them to their mission of ment Unit has set up a phone bank in Long Island City to answer lege-Bound Program. University in Virginia, Howard improving the lives of teenagers. questions and provide additional information to candidates. The “Today we appreciate you and University and American Univer- They then presented awards of Department will also offer free tutorials in all five boroughs for the we are going to show you love,” sity in Washington, and Morgan appreciation to the Resident Asso- written exam. Physical training programs will be offered through a said SCG Vice President Gerald State University in Maryland, ciation Presidents: Ms. Ballou of continued partnership with New York Sports Club. Free access to phys- Karikari as he opened the pro- traveling by bus and lodging at ceedings. “I have been hoping and hotels. (Continued on page 12) ical training facilities at the Fire Academy on Randall’s Island also will dreaming for you even before I be available. met you, even before you were The Department of Citywide Administrative Services offers the born,” Mr. Karikari told the teens. The Housing Authority firefighter exam once every four years. This year, the pool of candi- Mill Brook Houses Resident 7years2 of dates is expected to broaden with changes in the educational require- Association President Linda Journal in New York City ments allowing individuals with 15 college credits, full-time U.S. Ballou, who initiated the Col- military service with an honorable discharge, or at least six months lege-Bound Program, said that ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 of full-time, satisfactory work experience the opportunity to take the her motivation sprang from see- Published monthly by the New York City Housing Authority exam. As I mentioned, the open filing period will be from August 7th ing “too many youngsters Department of Public and Community Relations to October 13th. A written exam will be held in January 2007 with a pushing baby carriages. I would 250 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10007 physical exam to follow. Often times, it may take up to one to three rather see teenagers carrying a Tel (212) 306-3322 • Fax (212) 577-1358 nyc.gov/nycha years before a candidate is called to join the Department. In an effort briefcase than carrying a baby. When they are young is the time Michael R. Bloomberg...... Mayor to better prepare incoming recruits, the Fire Department will lengthen for education.” Tino Hernandez...... Chairman the 13-week training period at the Academy. Earl Andrews, Jr...... Vice-Chairman While all three programs were Compared to the previous decade, the Fire Department has tripled its Margarita López ...... Board Member rooted in the necessity of an Vilma Huertas...... Secretary rate of minority hires from 5% to 15%. In 2005 and 2006 alone, that education, the Mill Brook Col- Douglas Apple...... General Manager figure increased to nearly 20% of all Probationary Firefighter classes. lege-Bound Program included Sheila Greene...... Director of Public and Community Relations Most recently, the last class to graduate from the Fire Academy in July Eileen Elliott ...... Editor sessions focusing specifically on Heidi Morales...... Editor, Spanish Edition was more than 21% minority, with 14% Hispanic, 5% African-Ameri- mathematics, reading, poetry, lit- Allan Leicht ...... Staff Writer can, 2% Asian and one Probationary Firefighter from a Native Ameri- erature and African history, taught Deborah Williams ...... Staff Writer can background. by teachers who hold graduate Peter Mikoleski, Kevin Devoe...... Photography Interested applicants should call 311 or (718) 999-FDNY to get infor- degrees in various fields of schol- If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please call our marketing representatives in Marketing and Revenue Operations mation on how to register for the Firefighter exam’s open filing. Infor- arship. In addition, students were at (212) 306-6616. The inclusion of any advertisement in this Journal mation is also available on the web at www.nyc.gov/fdny. And don’t addressed by professionals, like doctors and attorneys; they were does not constitute any endorsement by the Housing Authority of the forget — the filing period ends on October 13th, so act now and take advertiser or its products or services or any other representation by the taken to a Broadway play (their that first step toward becoming one of New York’s Bravest! Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. first, for each of them) and they visited museums –— all of which Michael R. Bloomberg was intended as a stepping-stone to higher education. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2006 3

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE DEBORAH’S DIARY By Deborah Williams BOROUGH DIGEST Information About New uniforms for Explorers — They’re called The Bronx: the PSA #4 Explorers — a group of young men Registering Your Child for School NYCHA’s Social Services and women who have volunteered to be a part Department hosted the Bronx of the Law Enforcement Exploring Program at THE NEW YORK CITY HOUSING Social Services Street Fair on Police Service Area (PSA) #4 on Manhattan’s AUTHORITY (NYCHA) PROVIDES August 23rd near the Classic . The career-oriented program is MANY EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNI- Community Center at Melrose designed to teach youth from the ages of 14-20 TIES FOR RESIDENTS THROUGHOUT Houses. Because many of the about law enforcement. The Explorer Program seeks to THE YEAR, BUT NOTHING WE DO residents who are referred to instill in participants a sense of discipline, teach them respect for law CAN COMPARE WITH THE EDUCA- Social Services experience enforcement and leadership qualities, along with the skills to help TION THAT IS AVAILABLE THROUGH financial difficulties, the focus them advance in life. The program also serves as a tool to help build THE NEW YORK CITY PUBLIC of the fair was on providing and strengthen the relationship between youth and law enforcement SCHOOL SYSTEM. This year public information about available officials in their community. The Explorer motto, “A better today for school begins on Tuesday, Sep- support services which may a better tomorrow,” says it all. tember 5th, and since so many impact residents’ ability to Since the program began in 2004, membership has risen to 40 par- NYCHA residents attend public obtain and keep jobs. These ticipants, 95% of whom reside in various New York City Housing school, or are eligible to attend services include medical care, Authority (NYCHA) developments located on the Lower East Side. public school, I thought this mental health treatment and The program is structured in rank much like that of the NYPD. And would be a good opportunity to or childcare and afterschool just as NYPD recruits receive physical fitness training at the Police provide some practical informa- programs. A diverse group of Academy, Explorers are no different. At PSA #4 during the weekly tion about the registration process. employers from local busi- Wednesday session from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, each Explorer under- First, who is eligible to regis- nesses were also present — goes a set of rigorous training activities. They are also taught and ter for public school? Costco, Duane Reade, Rite Aid drilled on several military stances. Registration is for New York City residents who are age 5 or over, and Pathmark. Educational The only thing the Explorers were missing were uniforms to give and under age 21, and are new to the New York City public school sys- institutions were also repre- them a sense of belonging and help others recognize them as a divi- tem or are returning to it. Although kindergarten isn’t mandatory in sented, in particular, the Col- sion of the New York City Police Department. Well, no more! NYC Schools, a child must be age 5 by December 31st of the year lege of New Rochelle and De NYCHA Board Member Margarita López, in her former role as a he/she will enroll in kindergarten. New York City residents who are 5 or Hostos Community College, to City Council Member, was able to secure $5,000 in funding to pur- over, and under 21, and have not received a high school diploma are offer information about certifi- chase the “Bravo” uniform with its long sleeve shirt, white gloves entitled to attend New York City public schools free of charge. cate and other programs that and tie, the “Alpha” uniform with short sleeves and the “Tactical” When and where should you register your child for school? can help residents get a foot uniform — polo shirt with combat boots. For elementary school register your child at your zoned elementary in the door. Most of the resi- “I worked very hard to get those uniforms and all the work was school, and for middle school register your child at your zoned middle dents attending the fair were worth it,” said Ms. López at NYCHA’s Central Office on July 26th, school, beginning September 5th. Your child’s zoned school is deter- from Betances, Melrose, Jack- when the Explorers came by to thank her with a special drill perfor- mined by your home address. If you do not know your zoned school, son, Mitchel, Mott Haven, mance. Both the Chairman and the Board Member agreed that the you may call 311, a Regional Learning Support Center, a local public Morrisania Air Rights and Pat- drill performance was outstanding and that the Explorers looked great school, or check the Department of Education’s web site at: terson Houses. If you live in in their new uniforms. www.nyc.gov/schools. the South Bronx and are inter- The Law Enforcement Exploring Program at PSA #4 is coordi- High school registration is not conducted at schools. Registration ested in job opportunities, call nated through the efforts of Post Advisor Officer Flores, Community began on August 28th and continues through September 29th. To reg- NYCHA’s Bronx Social Ser- Affairs Officer Michael Duran and Officer Alonzo Harris. ister, you may visit any of the New Student High School Registration vices Department at (718) Now, fully uniformed, the Explorers walk the community with Centers. These Centers will be open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 409-8699 and ask for Admin- pride participating in such events as National Night Out Against am until 3:00 pm. High school registration will not be conducted at istrator Joseph Esheyigba. Crime, Fish Fry Day at Houses and at various Domestic Regional Enrollment Offices or schools during this time. To find the Brooklyn: Violence Program events. Sergeant Charity Mazzola, a resident of locations call 311 or visit the Department of Education’s web site listed A ribbon-cutting ceremony was Jacob Riis Houses, said she enjoys being an Explorer so much that above. held on July 27th at the Red she encouraged her best friend Captain Angela Stevens, non-resident, What documents do you need to register? Hook West Community Center to join. Both girls agree that the program creates a sense of loyalty In order for a new student to register into a New York City public on Wolcott Street in Brooklyn. and self-discipline. “Sometimes young people in the neighborhood school, you and your child must bring the following items when regis- It all started three years ago have different reactions seeing us in our uniforms. They think we are tering: when the furniture maker IKEA, cops and call us snitches, but I don’t care because everyone has their — Verifiable proof of your home address — utility bill (gas, elec- which is building a store in the own opinion. I know when young people criticize me they do so tric, or water), a deed to a house, or a document from the New York area, saw the need for the ren- because they are jealous and have nothing going on with their lives. I City Housing Authority or the Human Resources Administration. Other ovation at the Center, which is like the program and that’s all that matters to me,” said Sergeant proofs of address include a medical or insurance card, or a statement funded by the New York City Mazzola. Many of the Explorers are choosing careers in law enforce- that verifies the address from an employer, a social service agency, Department for the Aging and ment or the military. Stacy Moran has decided to join the Marine community based organization, or a religious institution. Please note: run by the Spanish Speaking Corps; Peter Ascolla is entering the Police Academy and others are A telephone bill or driver’s license is not acceptable proof of address. A Elderly Council-RAICES (SSEC- interested in becoming lawyers or district attorneys. lease by itself is not acceptable. If a parent is subletting an apartment or RAICES). IKEA approached You guys have my deepest admiration. I am always happy to see home, or if more than one family shares a living space, you must pre- the Independence Bank for young men and woman like you taking charge of your lives. Don’t sent an affidavit from the leaseholder or homeowner and attach any of a financial contribution and the ever let anyone deter you from your goals. Congratulations! I wish the above acceptable proofs of address, i.e. lease, deed, utility bill; Independence Community Foun- you all the best in your career choices. — Child’s birth certificate, passport, or baptismal certificate; dation came through with — Child’s immunization history; $35,000. IKEA contributed over One hundred years young — NYCHA has a lot to celebrate. It — Child’s transcript or latest report card (recommended not $100,000 for renovation and seems that during the month of August two residents turned 100 required); and furnishings. The Horticultural years young. On August 6, 2006, Ms. Agnes Wilson of Jackie — Child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), if applicable. Society will also be contribut- Robinson Houses in Manhattan celebrated her 100th birthday, and If you have questions and your child is currently enrolled in a New ing funding and technical Mr. Erasmus Chesconi of Shelton Senior Houses in Queens, under York City public elementary or middle school, please visit your assistance to develop a senior the management of Baisley Park, celebrated his 100th birthday on child’s current school. If your child is currently enrolled in or flower, vegetable and herb August 5, 2006. assigned to a New York City public high school, please go to your garden. I would like to take this opportunity to extend a very special high school beginning September 5th to obtain information and assis- Joining NYCHA Vice-Chairman birthday wish to you both. It’s not every day a person turns 100 but tance from your child’s guidance counselor. Earl Andrews, Jr. at the event you did it. You are an inspiration to us all. You are the bedrock of I hope you find this information helpful and have a great school was Department for the Aging our communities.You have lived and witnessed it all and you hold year! Commissioner Edwin Mendez- stories that history is built upon and for that I thank you. I hope Santiago, IKEA’s Director of you both had very special days. Happy Belated Birthday! Tino Hernandez Public Affairs Joseph Roth, (Continued on page 4) THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 4 SEPTEMBER 2006

Thinking About Removing Your THE NYCHA NOT WANTED LIST BOROUGH DIGEST (Continued from page 3) Air Conditioner? In this issue we continue our editorial policy of publishing the names of Independence Bank President individuals who have been permanently excluded from our public Alan Fishman and Executive The summer season is coming to an end and a lot of residents will housing developments. The purpose of publishing this list is to keep Director of SSEC-RAICES Jose want to take their air condtioners out of their windows to allow the residents informed of the Housing Authority’s ongoing effort to R. Ortiz Ortiz. improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers in public housing and to cool breezes to flow through. When you want to remove your air con- allow for the peaceful and safe use of our facilities. Here follows a list ditioner, notify your Housing Manager or call the Centralized Call of the people excluded after hearings were held on August 17, 24 and Center (CCC) immediately to request a visit by a maintenance 31 and September 7, 2005. Please note: These exclusions are based worker. The maintenance worker should be present at the time of the on NYCHA’s Administrative Hearing Process and should not be air condtioner’s removal so that he or she can immediately install a confused with the Trespass Notice Program under Mayor window guard. Bloomberg’s Operation Safe Housing Initiative. Residents who live in Staten Island, Queens and Manhattan can make this appointment by calling the CCC at (718)707-7771. Resi- REMEMBER, dents of the Bronx and Brooklyn should call their Management IF YOU SEE ANY OF THESE INDIVIDUALS ON Office. Please make sure that no window in your apartment is ever HOUSING AUTHORITY PROPERTY, PLEASE CALL without a window guard or a permanently installed air conditioner. YOUR MANAGEMENT OFFICE OR NYCHA’S SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT AT (212) 306-8595. West Nile Virus Mosquito Treatment DFTA Commissioner Edwin Mendez-Santiago Prohibited as of August 17, 2005 Manhattan: The New York City Housing Authority is in the process of treating Patrick Parris Case 5566/05 formerly associated with the second all of the catch basins located in Housing Authority developments to Kevin Parris floor of 495 Fountain Avenue, Cypress Hills The NYCHA Youth Chorus sang reduce the mosquito population in an effort to minimize the trans- Houses, Brooklyn. at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza on mission of the West Nile Virus. These applications will take place August 23rd at a ceremony for Jerome Ellis Case 5597/05 formerly associated with the sixth between June and October of 2006. The larvicides being used are: floor of 385 Fountain Avenue, Cypress Hills the World Harmony Run, a Houses, Brooklyn. global relay that seeks to pro- Vectolex CG, EPA Reg. No. 73049-20, Toxicity mote international friendship Ivan Rivera Case 5732/05 formerly associated with the ninth Category – “Caution” and understanding. As a sym- floor of 3050 Park Avenue, Jackson Houses, Bronx. Bactimos Briquets, EPA Reg. No. 6218-47, Toxicity bol of harmony, runners carry a Category – “Caution” Terrell Rollison Case 9942/05 formerly associated with the sixth flaming torch, passing it from floor of 85-02 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Hammel hand to hand between mem- Houses, Queens. Contact names and numbers for this application are: bers of thousands of commu- Hector Figueroa Case 5748/05 formerly associated with the eighth nities, travelling through over New York City Housing Authority: floor of 2839 West 33rd Street, Surfside Gardens 70 nations around the globe. Houses, Brooklyn. Jamal Rashid, Coordinator – 718-707-5808 The day before the event, an Available from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Jose Harris Case 5751/05 formerly associated with the ninth international team of runners floor of 40 Amsterdam Avenue, Amsterdam Luis Ponce, Deputy Director – 718-707-5323 visited the singers at their Available from 9:00 am -5:00 pm Houses, Manhattan. home base in Taft Houses. The Martin Case 5749/05 formerly associated with the twelfth runners visit schools, commu- NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Region 2, Sommerville floor of 2926 West 25th Street, Surfside Gardens nity groups, running clubs, and Bureau of Pesticide Management – 718-482-4994 Houses, Brooklyn. local and national government Gregory Mathis Case 5765 formerly associated with the first floor organizations to celebrate the National Pesticide Telecommunications Network– of 175-177 Alexander Avenue, Mitchel Houses, goal of world harmony and rec- 1-800-858-PEST the Bronx. ognize people in the commu- Christopher Case 5900/05 formerly associated with the second nity who work for harmony in Inquiries concerning symptoms of pesticide poisoning should be Smith floor of 409 East 146th Street, Betances V Houses, their own special way. The goal directed to the Poison Control Center – 1-800-222-1222. the Bronx. is to strengthen a sense of Prohibited as of August 24, 2005 international brotherhood. Kimberly Jones Case 5246/05 formerly associated with the sixth Queens: floor of 2811 Exterior Street, Marble Hill Houses, If things go as planned, City the Bronx. Council Member John Liu will Dunmar Steed Case 6606/05 formerly associated with the third be joining residents of Bland floor of 691 F.D.R. Drive, Wald Houses, Manhattan. Houses and the surrounding area for classes in Chinese at Tyrone Benjamin Case 5843/05 formerly associated with the fifth floor of 545 West 126th Street, Manhattanville the development’s Community Houses, Manhattan. Center. The class is expected to begin this fall and will run Pedro Perez Case 4408/05 formerly associated with the eighth for three months. The Council floor of 177 Nagel Avenue, Dyckman Houses, Manhattan. Member is funding the class. Staten Island: Prohibited as of August 31, 2005 Clove Lakes Park was the site Justin Murray Case 6056/05 formerly associated with the fifth for the Housing Authority’s floor of 159-30 Harlem River Drive, Rangel Houses, fifth annual Kids’ Walk, which Manhattan. took place on a beautiful, Jacob Tuck Case 6061/05 formerly associated with the ninth sunny August 16th. Approxi- floor of 1141 F.D.R. Drive, Riis Houses, Manhattan. mately 1,600 youth from 36 Sean Blackman Case 6105/05 formerly associated with the twenty- community centers throughout Sean Hood second floor of 487 Carlton Avenue, Atlantic the City converged on the 198 Terminal Houses, Brooklyn. acre park for a 2.5 mile trek to David Pardo Case 6109/05 formerly associated with the twelfth promote exercise as part of a floor of 745 East 152nd Street, Adams Houses, healthy lifestyle. There was an the Bronx. educational puppet show Prohibited as of September 7, 2005 stressing the importance of healthy eating at the end of Charles Brown Case 6167/05 formerly associated with the fifteenth floor of 3170 Broadway, Grant Houses, Manhattan. the walk, an obstacle course, and the ever-popular vegetable relay. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2006 5 WEST BRIGHTON (Continued from page 1) importance of Community Cen- ters to NYCHA residents, and the Authority’s commitment to mod- ernizing existing centers and building new ones throughout the City. Other speakers included City Council Member Michael E. McMahon, whom Mr. Billington introduced as, “a fighter for this community.” The Council Mem- ber beamed as he told the audi- ence, “It’s a great thing when we have good news like this. Let’s celebrate it.” Mr. McMahon was followed by State Assembly Member John LaVelle who pointed out that the new computer room will provide children from P.S. 18 across the street with much needed Inter- net access. He ended on the note that residents should, “enjoy this Community Center for decades to come.” Center Coordinator Shirlene Bonner led children from the nearby P.S. 18 Chorus in a tap- were also present, as was Brighton for 32 years and raised step dance to George Benson’s Board Member Margarita López, six children there, summed up NEW YORK CITY classic, “On Broadway,” inspired Community Operations’ new the importance of the Center POLICE DEPARTMENT by West Brighton’s location at Assistant Deputy General Man- best. “For some seniors here 230 Broadway (in Staten Island, ager Deidra Gilliard and who are on a fixed income, the TOLL-FREE TERRORISM HOTLINE of course), as well as a heartfelt NYCHA’s new Staten Island Bor- breakfast and lunch they serve REPORTS MAY BE MADE TO: rendition of the National Anthem. ough Management Director Car- are the only meals they get,” she 1-800-NYC-SAFE Representatives for Borough olyn Jasper. said. But Ms. Brown was quick 1-888-692-7233 President James P. Molinaro and Senior Center President Mae to add, “We come here for Bingo Congress Member Vito J. Fossella Brown, who has lived in West games, we laugh, we play.” THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 6 SEPTEMBER 2006 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2006 7 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 8 SEPTEMBER 2006 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2006 9 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 10 SEPTEMBER 2006 SOAKING UP THE NYCHA S

Tug-of-war was just one of the games at the Bronx Sports Educa- tion Field Day in Van Cortlandt Park on July 18th. NYCHA Chairman Tino Hernandez with New Yorkers from all over the City filled the Plaza in front of the 830 Amsterdam Houses Resident Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building on 125th Street Association President Idalia Morales for the free Calypso Harlem SummerStage Concert on July 27th in Manhattan at the July 15th Family featuring The Mighty Sparrow and United Sounds Steel Band. Day Celebration.

ABOVE: Three young residents at the Classic Community Center, located at Melrose Houses in the Bronx, on their first day of Summer Camp, July 5th.

LEFT: Young residents from NYCHA’s Lacrosse Team went all the way out to Las Vegas for the New York City vs. Las Vegas Friend- ship Games, to compete against four Las Vegas Teams. NYCHA won one of the games, against the Las Vegas Gators.

The three pictures above were taken at the 34th Annual Ridgewood-Bushwick Senior Picnics, hosted by City Council Member Vito Lopez and held in Sunken Meadow Park on Long Island on July 20th and August 17th. In the first picture, above left, from left to right, are NYCHA Secretary Vilma Huertas, Vice-Chairman Earl Andrews, Jr., Coun- cil Member Vito Lopez and Chairman Tino Hernandez. The second picture shows many of the NYCHA staff who pitched in to man the grills, and the third picture features the main course being cooked by Deputy General Manager (DGM) Hugh Spence (far right) with DGM Bobby Podmore supervising. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2006 11 A SUMMER FUN IN 2006

These young Partners In Reading (PIR) came to the Madd Fun Indoor ABOVE: City Council Member Gale Brewer (cen- Amusement Park in Brooklyn on June 30th for the literacy program’s ter) joined NYCHA Chairman Tino Hernandez Closing Ceremony Celebration. and the NYCHA Youth Chorus at the Wise Tow- ers Family Day in Manhattan on July 15th. BELOW: Board Member Margarita López leads the dance line at Smith Houses Family Day.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly renovated Red Hook Houses Senior Center was cause for celebration on July 27th. The renovation was funded by the IKEA furniture store and the Independence Community Foundation.

More fun for young Partners In Reading at the program’s Closing Ceremony, held at the Madd Fun NYCHA Chairman Tino Hernandez and Smith Houses Resident Asso- Indoor Park in Brooklyn on June 30th. Partners In Reading is a collaboration between the Mayor’s ciation President Nikki Azure cut up the rug at the Manhattan Office, NYCHA and the Department of Education with the goal of improving literacy skills in development’s Family Day Celebration on July 15th. children who are in the first, second and third grades. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 12 SEPTEMBER 2006

‘STRIVE’ GRADUATION CEREMONY Amanda Benitez (Continued from page 1) Perhaps one of the most impres- able to finish school, but I wanted sive stories is that of Amanda Ben- to drop out when I was 18,” Mr. itez, 24, of Ocean Bay Houses in Morales said. Thanks to Youth- Queens. This petite, young woman Build, a national nonprofit pro- has found her path and this time, gram NYCHA has collaborated she says she won’t stray. with in the past, Mr. Morales was able to get back on track. “I went to YouthBuild when I was 19 and got my GED,” he said, appearing satisfied with his accomplish- ment. “But I’m sure there was a better way,” he added. FRANCISCO MORALES And there was. Mr. Morales geared up to get his life back on track and for the past several years has sought out training programs and classes. This included training in the Department of Housing Preservation and Development’s (HPD’s) Build- ing Maintenance Program where he received superintendent certifica- tion. He also worked at a lighting company where he developed an interest in the electrical trade. Now, Mr. Morales said he is focused, deter- AMANDA BENITEZ mined and satisfied. Mr. Morales recently took an exam to obtain his electrician’s license Ms. Benitez’s story is that of a and once he successfully completes the CS2K training will move on to young person given the responsi- become a full-time, paid, apprentice for Local 3—the labor union for bility of a job without having electricians. prior knowledge of what it takes to be successful; without appro- Daniel Montero priate communications skills or Another triumphant young man, thanks to STRIVE, is Daniel Mon- even the right attitude necessary tero. Mr. Montero is 28 years old and a resident of Webster/Morrisania to keep a job and excel in a place Houses in the Bronx. He said he was enthusiastic about the program from of employment. the start. “It was tiring but fun. We brushed up on our skills in math, our Ms. Benitez also attended an attitude, the way we dress and our communications skills.” HPD program which prepared her A big part of the STRIVE program is to teach students job readiness for a job in painting but poor skills and to foster a positive attitude towards work, authority and them- choices led her to lose her job. “I selves. made a bad decision—to get com- Mr. Montero plans to become an apprentice for the painter’s union. fortable at my job. I thought, ‘Oh, After an arduous three-year appren- they’re not going to fire me.’ But ticeship, Mr. Montero hopes to now I have a chance to make a become what is referred to as a jour- good decision, a positive deci- neyman—and will earn top wages and sion,” she said. And, she did make benefits. a positive decision by joining Mr. Montero also shared his story of STRIVE. delayed success. “I made a lot of bad Ms. Benitez said that the fact decisions. I got in trouble with the law that these jobs aren’t traditionally a couple of times; but now I realize it’s for women excites her. “They say not worth it. I want to go to school, get it’s only 12% women. I think a job and take care of my family. I’m another woman isn’t bad. And, I an only child; it’s just my mother and feel I can do the same work a man me, so now I can really help her out,” can do,” she added. Mr. Montero said. DANIEL MONTERO Although Ms. Benitez has already had training in painting she said she would like to get an apprenticeship in carpentry. “Car- pentry pays more money than painting and its more math, so it’ll be something I have to push myself to learn,” she said. A total of 54 graduates (includ- ing the 23 NYCHA residents) com- pleted the STRIVE work readiness program and those who did not already have high school diplomas were able to obtain their GEDs. The Mayor’s Commission on Construction Opportunity was formed in March 2005, and was charged with exploring strategies and setting goals for ensuring that COLLEGE-BOUND (Continued from page 2) all New Yorkers, particularly minorities, women, returning vet- Mill Brook Houses, Wallace Hassan of Patterson Houses and Richard erans and recent high school grad- Moore of Butler Houses. Parents who served as volunteer chaperones uates are well-prepared and have on the college tour were cited for special thanks, but none were more the opportunity to gain access to applauded than the students themselves who were embraced and new permanent jobs in construc- awarded by SCG Director of Education Ms. Akosua Agyeman. tion. Ms. Agyeman, herself a doctoral candidate at Columbia University, These graduates, as Mayor recalled the words of George Washington Carver, who described educa- Bloomberg put it, “strived, sur- tion as “the key to unlock the doors of freedom.” “We have given you vived and thrived.” the key,” Ms. Agyeman told her students, “the rest is up to you.” THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2006 13 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 14 SEPTEMBER 2006