Residents Talk, and NYCHA Listens Message from Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye

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Vol. 44 No. 4 www.nyc.gov/nycha May 2014 Message from Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye On May 5, Mayor Bill de Blasio unveiled NYCHA will develop a preservation and development plan that will be “Housing New York,” a plan to invest thoughtful and transparent. Starting from the ground up, we will listen to $41 billion to build or preserve 200,000 residents, using your input to create our approach and putting your needs affordable apartments across all five at the forefront of every decision. In partnership with you and a variety boroughs over the next 10 years. This of City agencies, elected officials, and community leaders and partners, ambitious plan is the largest ever in our we will ensure the success of “Housing New York.” Journanation’s history. It will provide housing The Mayor’s plan involves bothl preserving and developing housing. for at least a half million New Yorkers, For NYCHA, that means creating a thoughtful, practical approach which is more than the entire population which makes the best use of our resources and connects NYCHA to its of Atlanta. To help accomplish its very surrounding communities. Our efforts will support our mission to better important goal, 13 City agencies and more than 200 stakeholders – including maintain your homes. We also will focus on supporting the unique and NYCHA, affordable housing advocates, and elected officials – contributed growing needs of seniors. I know that our collaboration will guarantee to the plan’s development. “Housing New York” outlines more than 50 the long-term success, health, and vitality of our neighborhoods. initiatives that will assist families in all communities and from every walk of Everyone understands the importance of home. NYCHA is vital to life by accelerating affordable construction, protecting tenants, and delivering the future of New York City; together, we will be an essential part of more value from affordable housing investments. In addition to making our our City’s future. Stay tuned for more details. I look forward to our City stronger by revitalizing neighborhoods, the housing plan will generate continued partnership. approximately 194,000 construction jobs and almost 7,100 permanent quality jobs. Please visit nyc.gov/housing to learn more. NYCHA is a crucial part of the Mayor’s housing plan. In line with our work to reset NYCHA’s relationship with residents and other stakeholders,

INSIDE Residents Talk, and NYCHA Listens THIS ISSUE With reporting by Eric Deutsch ive Presidents of Resident Associa- Ftions – one from each borough – looked out at the sea of faces in front of them. What they saw was a room full of NYCHA senior staff members, all ready to hear what they had to say about living in public housing in New York City. One of those Resident Association (RA) Presidents, Carol Wilkins from Ravenswood Houses in Queens, knew why they were asked to come to the meeting. “We’re the CEASE THE GREASE PROJECT ones who live here in the trenches Concludes in Baruch Houses Sewers and see what’s going on day-to-day,” » see page 3 she said. “We don’t go home at 5:00, we come home and do the job when TAKING OUT THE TRASH the employees go home. It’s good for Residents Can Help Keep Developments them to hear our ideas.” Clean » see page 3 Ms. Wilkins joined Florence Gross- man (New Lane Houses in Staten NYCHA Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Natalie Rivers (far left) starts a FISCAL YEAR 2015 ANNUAL Island); Patricia Herman (Lincoln panel discussion with five Resident Association Presidents on March 27, 2014. From left to right are Carol Wilkins (Ravenswood Houses), Keith Ramsey (Eastchester Houses), Lisa Kenner (Van Dyke PLAN Houses in Manhattan); Lisa Kenner Houses), Patricia Herman (Lincoln Houses), and Florence Grossman (New Lane Houses). Public Hearing and Town Hall Meetings (Van Dyke Houses in Brooklyn); and Scheduled » see page 4 Keith Ramsey (Eastchester Houses in NYCHA staff. The panel was part of weaknesses. “NYCHA’s employees the Bronx) on the panel discussion NYCHA’s ongoing efforts to engage do an admirable job trying to service EAT RIGHT, LIVE LONGER on March 27. Moderated by NYCHA residents so it can get their opinions to the residents as a whole,” he said. First NYCHA Healthy Food Summit Executive Vice President and Chief inform its future. “Sometimes it might not be the fast- » see page 8 Administrative Officer Natalie Rivers, Mr. Ramsey was pleased to see est, and sometimes people might the five RA Presidents spoke about the NYCHA working to improve residents’ fall through the cracks, but they do a PUTTING IN YOUR OWN AIR current state of the Housing Authority quality of life, and to have the op- good job.” CONDITIONER? from the resident’s perspective and portunity to talk about his ideas on NYCHA turned 80 years old this Here’s How to Do It » see page 7 took questions from the assembled the Housing Authority’s strengths and continued on page 2  2 May 2014 The Housing Authority Journal

 continued from page 1 Kenner felt such situations were NYCHA Residents Talk, and NYCHA Listens an opportunity for residents to take responsibility for their development. “We have to Board Meetings get independent training and otice hereby is given that the New York City Housing should not depend on NYCHA NAuthority’s Board Meetings take place as announced on to provide training. We have Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. in the Board Room on the 12th floor Tenant Participation Activities of 250 Broadway, New York, NY (unless otherwise noted). (TPA) funds, we should use The Board Meetings in 2014 are scheduled for: them,” she said. May 21 September 24 November 26 Ms. Herman, partially June 25 October 29 December 31 echoing Ms. Kenner’s call for July 30 resident responsibility, said, Any changes to the schedule will be posted in the Journal “There’s much that must be and on NYCHA’s website at www.nyc.gov/nycha to the extent addressed, and this type of practicable at a reasonable time before the meeting. event is key. You need to listen These meetings are open to the public. Pre-registration at and we need to listen.” least 45 minutes before the scheduled Board Meeting is re- And NYCHA indeed is listen- quired by all speakers. Comments are limited to the items on ing. Mr. Ramsey is confident that the Calendar. Speaking time will be limited to three minutes. this type of dialogue between Patricia Herman, the Resident Association President at Lincoln Houses, speaks The public comment period will conclude upon all speakers be- during a panel discussion with NYCHA senior staff on March 27, 2014. Lisa Kenner, residents and the Housing Au- ing heard or at the expiration of 30 minutes allotted by law for the Resident Association President at Van Dyke Houses, is at left. thority will lead to good things. public comment, whichever occurs first. “If they really want change, Copies of the Calendar for an upcoming meeting are available year, and the residents were tive,” Mr. Ramsey said. “They NYCHA will take what we say on NYCHA’s website at www.nyc.gov/nycha, or can be picked asked what it should focus on can’t only focus on the buildings into account, and people will up at the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 250 Broadway, 12th for the next 80 years. Ideas and repairs, there are residents flock here because they want to floor, New York, NY, no earlier than 3:00 p.m. on the Monday included attending more to the who destroy and pillage the live here, not because they have before the upcoming Wednesday Board Meeting. Copies of the needs of seniors and youths; property.” to,” he said. “NYCHA is one of Dispositions of prior meetings are available on NYCHA’s website educating residents more about Another idea mentioned the best places to live in New or can be picked up at the Office of the Corporate Secretary no proper garbage disposal; having was the ways NYCHA supports York City, even with its prob- earlier than 3:00 p.m. on the Thursday after the Board Meeting. more of a presence from the the RA Presidents, which led to lems, but we can make it better. Any person requiring a reasonable accommodation in order New York City Police Depart- some disagreement among the NYCHA plans to continue to participate in the Board Meeting should contact the Office ment; and making the develop- residents. Some of them said these conversations as part of the Corporate Secretary at 212-306-6088 no later than five ments safer, livelier, and more NYCHA should provide more of its resident engagement business days before the Board Meeting. controlled. training, such as basic computer activities, to further promote For additional information regarding Board Meeting Calen- “NYCHA has to deal more skills, and more equipment in trust and transparency with dars, Dispositions, dates and times, please call 212-306-6088. with the people who are disrup- the RA offices. However, Ms. residents. New Lights for Ravenswood Houses Check out NYCHA’s Facebook page! With reporting by Zodet Negrón ot a web-enabled smartphone? Now you can access NYCHA’s esidents of Ravenswood GFacebook page and bonus content in this issue by scanning RHouses soon will wake up or taking a snapshot of the QR codes. The QR code for NYCHA’s to a long-awaited change. Facebook page is on the right. The Queens development will Step 1: Download a QR code scanner application obtain a brand new lighting from your phone’s marketplace (many of these system with joint funding “apps” are free to download). from NYCHA and City Council Step 2: Point your phone’s camera at the Member Jimmy Van Bramer. QR image. NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye, Council Member Van Bramer, and Ravenswood Resident Association Presi- Ravenswood Resident Association President Carol Wilkins is flanked by NYCHA dent Carol Wilkins announced Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye and City Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer at the announcement of new lighting at the Queens development on April 18, 2014. the project on April 18. NYCHA The $4 million project “When work is complete resi- The installation is sched- ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 will overhaul the develop- dents will have a safer develop- uled to take six months. Published by the New York City Housing Authority ment’s old lighting system, ment with a better quality of life “The residents and the Department of Communications • 250 Broadway, New York, NY 10007 Tel 212-306-3322 • Fax 212-577-1358 • www.nyc.gov/nycha retrofitting Ravenswood with for everyone in the community.” Executive Board of the 635 new lighting fixtures for Council Member Van Bramer Ravenswood Resident Shola Olatoye �� Chair and Chief Executive Officer building exteriors, doorways, granted $1.5 million for the Association are very grateful Cecil R. House ��Journal General Manager parking lots, and play- project. “With these much to Council Member Jimmy Yvette Andino ��Interim Chief Communications Officer Eric Deutsch �� Publications Manager grounds. New energy efficient needed upgrades and improve- Van Bramer for listening to Zodet Negrón �� Editor, Spanish Edition upgrades will save on energy ments this project will enhance our concerns and safety issues Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza ��Photographers costs and are more durable security for all residents, fami- about not having enough Michael Corwin, Jeremy House ��Writers for the long term. lies, and seniors throughout the lights on the grounds of “We are pleased to partner development,” said Council Ravenswood Houses,” said If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please call our marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue Development with Council Member Van Member Van Bramer. “I am Ms. Wilkins. “As the voice for at (212) 306‑6614. The inclusion of any advertisement in this Journal does not Bramer to install new exterior proud we were able to secure the residents we are so happy constitute any endorsement by the Housing Authority of the advertiser or its lighting at the Ravenswood the necessary funding to make that this will become a reality products or services or any other representation by the Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. Houses,” said Chair Olatoye. this project a reality.” for our community.” The Housing Authority Journal May 2014 3

Cease the Grease Project a Success he year-long “Cease including two major stoppages Tthe Grease” project within one week of each other Grease is not the only at Baruch Houses is com- in November. scourge of New York plete. The pilot project was Before the project started, City’s sewers. Most a collaboration between NYCHA vacuumed out the manufactured brands NYCHA and the New York buildings’ internal sewer lines. of baby wipes are City Department of Environ- After the project was done, not flushable. They mental protection (DEP) that NYCHA took video of the should be thrown educates residents about the sewer lines to see how they out with diapers and proper disposal of kitchen looked. The Baruch Drive regular trash. Baby grease to improve their in- building had some large wipes do not break ternal environment; to avoid grease chunks lying in the down and dissolve, costly sewer backups; and bottom of the sewer pipe they build up inside to understand the impact on that slowed the flow of water, the piping by clinging the city’s infrastructure. The which potentially could create to chunks of grease key lesson learned by the a sewer stoppage. There also or the inside of a residents was to never pour was some grease built up on sewer fitting. They used cooking oil or grease the interior walls of the sewer. can keep building into any drain in their homes The Delancey Street building, up until they form a – instead cool it down, seal where the intensive education solid blockage inside it, and dispose it with the was conducted, had a sewer the sewer. regular trash. line that was fairly clean with Two buildings took part Grease build-up is shown in the sewer that services 70-72 Baruch Drive at the exception of some grease in the project – residents at Baruch Houses. lining the walls, had no large 296-298 Delancey Street got largest wastewater treatment – the buildings had frequent chunks of grease, and the wa- there hosted a workshop an intensive education on plant. At the same time, the backups in the past. However, ter was flowing freely. for residents, and DEP was the effects that grease has residents at 70-72 Baruch Drive from February 2013 through A new “Cease The Grease” asked to help raise residents’ on the city’s sewer system, only received basic informa- December 2013, 296-298 education effort started this awareness. Meetings for and the best ways to avoid tion. The buildings were Delancey had no sewer stop- spring in Ocean Bay Apart- Ocean Bay residents are adding to the problem, chosen based on recommen- pages, and at 70-72 Baruch ments in Queens. The NYCHA expected to be held on a including a visit to the city’s dations by NYCHA plumbers Drive, there only were a few, Resident Green Committee monthly basis.

Let’s Put Garbage in Its Place! YCHA needs your help to Nkeep developments – your homes – clean and vermin- free. Almost one out every four NYCHA employees is involved in trash collection, a task that takes about half of their work hours. The staff who collect and move trash are in positions that account for about half of the injuries suffered by NYCHA employees. Making sure you dispose of trash properly will help keep developments cleaner and safer, and keep vermin away. Household trash – except for recycling at developments with containers – must be placed in Residents should use small kitchen the compactor chutes located bags to throw garbage out in the in the hallway of each floor in Residents’ discarded garbage piles up on a sidewalk, attracting rodents on the Lower East side. chutes located in building hallways. NYCHA’s buildings. • Use small kitchen bags, or cat litter in them. and mattresses, to the collec- create significant hazards. trians, and is unsightly. better yet use the grocery Large items such as mattress- tion area between 8:00 a.m. • Throw out cat litter in the bags from stores – it saves es, furniture, and other bulky and 10:00 a.m., Monday Please DO NOT… toilet (it blocks the pipes). money and plastic, and they materials must be placed in the to Friday. • Throw garbage out windows, Residents who see large are perfectly sized for our designated bulk collection ar- • If doing it between 8:00 as this creates safety and amounts of trash or discarded compactor chutes. eas at the development. If you a.m. and 10:00 a.m. is not sanitary issues. furniture are asked to please • Take the trash out every are not sure where to dispose of possible, please leave them • Leave garbage in the report it to their Management night. such items, please contact your during regular working hallway, stairway, lobby, Office. Working together, resi- • Throw cat litter out in the Management Office. hours (8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., elevator, or outside on the dents and NYCHA can make garbage chute, but please • If possible, bring large bulky Monday-Friday). Leaving sidewalk, it can create fire the developments a home tightly close any bags with items, such as old furniture these items off-hours can hazards, can obstruct pedes- everyone can be proud of! 4 May 2014 The Housing Authority Journal

THE NYCHA NOT WANTED LIST Below is a partial list of names of individuals who have been excluded NOTICE permanently from NYCHA’s public housing developments. This list keeps residents informed of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to improve New York City Housing Authority Proposed the quality of life for New Yorkers in public housing and to allow for Amendment to the Agency Annual Plan for FY 2014 the peaceful and safe use of its facilities. The full list can be viewed at on.nyc.gov/nychanotwanted. The following are the people, with their and Draft Agency Annual Plan for FY 2015 former addresses, excluded as of November 11- December 9, 2013. Availability of the Proposed Amendment and Draft Agency Week of November 11, 2013 Annual Plan for Public Inspection Anthony Allen Union Consolidated Houses, 819 East 167th Street, Apt. 2A, Bronx The public is advised that the Proposed Amendment to the FY 2014 Agency Annual Plan and Joanna Brown Mott Haven Houses, 340 Alexander Avenue, Apt. 15D, Draft Agency Annual Plan for FY 2015 will be available for public inspection at NYCHA’s principal Bronx office, located at 250 Broadway, New York, NY, starting May 30, 2014, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (212) 306-3701 Michael Chung Pink Houses, 2630 Linden Boulevard, Apt. 3D, Please call to make an appointment to review the Proposed Amendment and the Brooklyn Draft Agency Annual Plan for FY 2015 and supporting documents. Michael Garcia Grant Houses, 430 West 125th Street, Apt. 4A, The Proposed Amendment to the FY 2014 Agency Annual Plan and the Draft Agency Annual Plan Manhattan for FY 2015 also will be available at the following locations: Frederic Gibson Van Dyke I Houses, 372 Blake Avenue, Apt. 3E, Brooklyn • On NYCHA’s webpage, at www.nyc.gov/nycha. Raphael Maldonado Berry Houses, 801 Manor Road, Apt. 6A, • At the Management Office of each NYCHA public housing development during regular Staten Island business hours. Samuel Roman Williamsburg Houses, 167 Ten Eyck Walk, Apt. 1B, • At the Community Centers/Borough Offices listed below from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.: Brooklyn Shane Smith Patterson Houses, 271 East 143rd Street, Apt. 7B, Bronx Clinton Community Center Pelham Parkway Community Center Atlantic Terminal Community Center 120 East 110th Street 785 Pelham Parkway North Carvin Thernize 501 Carlton Avenue Ocean Bay Apartments, 54-81 Almeda Avenue, Manhattan Bronx Apt. 4E, Queens Brooklyn Seward Park Community Center Woodside Community Center Anthony Wedemier Murphy Houses, 1528 Hoe Avenue, Apt. 2A, Breukelen Community Center 56 Essex Street 50-19 Broadway Bronx 715 East 105th Street Manhattan Woodside Brooklyn Jeff aka Jeffrey Wood Lehman Houses, 1595 Madison Avenue, St. Mary’s Park Community Center Queens Community Operations Apt. 9D, Manhattan Staten Island Community 595 Trinity Avenue Borough Office Operations Borough Office Week of November 18, 2013 Bronx 70-30 Parsons Boulevard 126 Lamport Avenue Joseph Cruz Fiorentino Plaza, 2211 Pitkin Avenue, Apt. 4D, Brooklyn Flushing Staten Island Andrew Hudson Campos Plaza, 205 Avenue C, Apt. 9C, Manhattan Public Comment Jaime Martinez Patterson Houses, 314 East 143rd Street, Apt. 8C, The public is invited to attend any of the six scheduled Town Hall Meetings at which the public may raise Bronx questions regarding the Proposed Amendment to the FY 2014 Agency Annual Plan and the Draft Ramon Morales St. Mary’s Park Houses, 550 Cauldwell Avenue, Agency Annual Plan for FY 2015 Apt. BC, Bronx . These Town Hall meetings will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Emilio Velasquez Carver Houses, 1545 Madison Avenue, Apt. 4D, on the dates and locations shown below. Manhattan TOWN HALL MEETINGS – 3:00 P.M. TO 5:00 P.M UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE.

Week of November 25, 2013 THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2014 TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2014 TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2014 Denise Alston Queensbridge South Houses, 41-05 10th Street, Eugenio María de Hostos Joint Industry Board St. Francis College Apt. 2B, Queens Community College 158-11 Jewel Avenue 180 Remsen Street Clifford Ashby Red Hook West Houses, 416 Columbia Street, BRONX 500 Grand Concourse Flushing, NY 11365 Brooklyn, NY 11201 Apt. 2D, Brooklyn Bronx, NY 10451 QUEENS Note: There will be two Larry Bush Monroe Houses, 1802 Story Avenue, Apt. 3C, Bronx BROOKLYN sessions: 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m and 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m Patrick Coe Douglass Houses, 830 Amsterdam Avenue, Apt. 18G, Manhattan THURSDAY, JUNE 26, 2014 MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2014 Rashime Devaughn Red Hook West Houses, 82 Dwight Street, Dreyfus Middle School Johnson Community Apt. 2F, Brooklyn 101 Warren Street Center Kevin Kilpatrick Astoria Houses, 3-10 Astoria Boulevard, Apt. 1C, Staten Island, NY 10304 1833 Lexington Avenue Queens New York, NY 10029

Laurie Lunn Douglass Houses, 830 Amsterdam Avenue, Apt. 18G, MANHATTAN

Manhattan ISLAND STATEN Adam Oquendo Baruch Houses, 90 Columbia Street, Apt. 13E, The public also is invited to comment on the Proposed Amendment to the FY 2014 Manhattan Agency Annual Plan and the Draft Agency Annual Plan for FY 2015 at a public hearing Andre Pratt Linden Houses, 245 Wortman Avenue, Apt. 10A, to be held on July 24, 2014, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at: Brooklyn BOROUGH OF MANHATTAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE Michael Smith Brownsville Houses, 345 Dumont Avenue, Apt. 1D, 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007 Brooklyn Jamel Wright Parkside Houses, 665 Arnow Avenue, Apt. 6B, Bronx Each location listed above is both handicapped accessible and can be reached using public transportation. For transportation information go to tripplanner.mta.info or call the Week of December 2, 2013 MTA/NYC Transit Travel Information Line at 718-330-1234. John Bigelow Bayview Houses, 2115 Rockaway Parkway, Apt. 8F, Brooklyn Written comments regarding the Proposed Amendment to the FY 2014 Michael Coats Monroe Houses, 1800 Story Avenue, Apt. 8B, Agency Annual Plan and the Draft Agency Annual Plan for FY 2015 are encouraged. Bronx To be considered, submissions must be received via United States Postal mail, e-mail, McArthur Nicks Monroe Houses, 1800 Story Avenue, Apt. 8B, Bronx or fax no later than July 24, 2014. Faxed submissions will be accepted at 212-306-7905, and comments may be e-mailed to [email protected]. Week of December 9, 2013 Anthony Bradshaw Castle Hill Houses, 635 Castle Hill Avenue, Comments also may be sent to the following address: Apt. 6D, Bronx NEW YORK CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY Steven Buchanan Butler Houses, 1330 Webster Avenue, Apt. 18B, Public Housing Agency Plan Comments Bronx Church Street Station, P.O. Box 3422 Philip Commodore Monroe Houses, 805 Taylor Avenue, Apt. 11B, New York, New York 10008-3422 Bronx Bill de Blasio, Mayor Shola Olatoye, Chair and Chief Executive Officer The Housing Authority Journal May 2014 5 Wyckoff Gardens RA a Model of Resident Advocacy By Eric Deutsch funding to install these security higher. “Now we’re in a position vote out, $400,000 will be used Ms. Nimmons has advice for he Resident Associations systems at all of its develop- to bring our community center to rehabilitate playgrounds and any residents on how they also Tacross the city at NYCHA’s ments, but will install them up to code, fix our kitchen, and basketball courts at Wyckoff can be so successful. “Don’t developments all do their part where elected officials have give our kids some place to go, Gardens, 572 Warren Street, take no for an answer. Keep go- helping out and advocating allocated discretionary funding that’s the excitement,” said Gowanus Houses, and ing back. Just because they say for their neighbors who live in for security measures. Ms. Nimmons. Williams Plaza. no, don’t stop asking,” she said. their buildings. One particularly “We recognize NYCHA gets Once the renovation is successful Resident Association funding, but it’s earmarked for complete, the RA wants to help (RA) has worked hard during specific items, so we have to get enhance residents’ lives by Resident Associations the past decade, getting more involved to get access to funds,” expanding the services offered than $2 million for various items said RA President Charlene Nim- at the community center, such – Wyckoff Gardens in Brooklyn. mons. “We work with NYCHA to as providing access to train- Benefit from Becoming Most importantly, Wyckoff enhance where we live.” ing and job opportunities and Gardens residents are safer The Wyckoff Gardens RA has helping them find jobs. Tax-Exempt, Not-for-Profit thanks to the RA’s efforts. The about $1.3 million that it plans The Wyckoff Gardens RA development has closed circuit to use to renovate the develop- also joined with residents from Corporations television security cameras ment’s community center. They other developments in the area esident Associations have the ability to become legally and building layered access started out with a modest goal for the City Council’s recent Rrecognized New York not-for-profit corporations. There control coming online in May, of fixing the gym floor and bas- participatory budgeting pro- are many benefits of incorporating as a not-for-profit corpora- all thanks to money secured ketball backboards, but as they cess, which allows New Yorkers tion, including eligibility to apply for: by the RA over the years from were able to keep increasing the to decide how some of the • Exemption from some state and local taxes, including New local City Council members. amount of money they raised, City’s budget is spent. Thanks York State and City sales taxes; NYCHA does not have the they decided to set their sights to a strong effort to get the • Some government and private grants; • Discounts from some stores, publications, and other businesses; and • Reduced postage rates for bulk mailing. Resident Associations also may apply for exemption from federal taxes under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. In addition to federal tax exemption and the other above-listed benefits, another advantage of obtaining 501(c) (3) status is eligibility to receive tax-deductible donations. Please note, certain forms must be filed with New York State and/or the federal government in order to receive the benefits listed above. Resident Associations can use their Tenant Participation Activity (TPA) funds to cover the costs associated with incorporating as a New York not-for-profit corporation and applying for state and federal tax exempt status. For more information, contact Colin Murray in the Department of Resident Engagement at 212-306-3396 or NYCHA youth join Wyckoff Gardens Resident Association President Charlene Nimmons and City Council Member Stephen Levin at a 2014 Participatory Budgeting “Get Out The Vote” community engagement event at the Wyckoff Gardens [email protected]. Community Center. Work Begins On Randolph Houses Redevelopment eligible for historic designation, tion of the public housing units and former Randolph Houses the rehabilitation must preserve through financing from the U.S. residents. Any remaining public certain historic elements of the Department of Housing and housing units will be filled with buildings’ exteriors. Urban Development’s (HUD) families and individuals on Randolph Houses residents Mixed-Finance program. NYCHA’s waitlist. have been involved throughout “We are fulfilling our promise The first phase of the redevel- the entire process. Input from the to preserve public housing for opment will encompass the hous- Randolph Houses Resident Task our existing residents and con- ing on the south side of the street Force, which was created to fa- tributing to Mayor de Blasio’s – on West 114th Street between cilitate communication between affordable housing plan,” said Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. and the residents, NYCHA, and the NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola Frederick Douglass Boulevards – development team, led to the Olatoye. “We are grateful to with 22 tenement buildings which addition of 3,000 square feet of our partners who made this currently are vacant and require community space, as well as an possible, including the Depart- extensive rehabilitation. The area for onsite social services. ment of Housing Preservation second phase of the project will “We’re excited to see this and Development; Housing focus on the redevelopment of Randolph Houses in Manhattan is on West 114th Street between Adam Clayton finally happen,” said Rober- Development Corporation; Trin- the 14 tenement buildings on the Powell, Jr. and Frederick Douglass Boulevards. tus Coleman, president of the ity Financial, Inc.; West Harlem north side of the street. Those Randolph Houses Resident Task Group Assistance, Inc.; Enter- buildings currently are partially he extensive facelift of Ran- buildings will be modified inter- Force. “We believe that the prise Community Investment; occupied by NYCHA tenants. Tdolph Houses in Manhattan nally so that they are grouped rehabilitation of these houses TD Bank; and the Randolph The rehabilitation of the north is underway, on what will be the into several larger buildings, will be great for the community Houses Resident Task Force; side buildings will begin once the first-ever development in New ultimately resulting in 147 and for NYCHA.” who all were instrumental in residents have been relocated to York City to combine public NYCHA public housing units NYCHA contributed up to moving this project forward.” the newly renovated public hous- housing units and affordable and 167 affordable housing $40 million in federal capital The 147 public housing units ing units on the south side of the housing units. The 36 tenement units. Because the buildings are funding towards the construc- will be made available to current street during the first phase. 6 May 2014 The Housing Authority Journal

Margarita López, Executive VP for Community Resident Gardener Honored Programs and Development, Retires Spent Seven Years as NYCHA Board Member by Parks Nonprofit

argarita López, a name Mvery well-known to NYCHA residents and anyone who has followed NYCHA in recent years, retired after a long career in public service, affordable housing, and community activism. Ms. López was the Executive Vice President for Community Programs and Development since 2013; prior to that she served as a Board Member since 2006. During her tenure as a NYCHA Board Member, Ms. López was nne Marie Rameau, a Garden, which she maintains appointed NYCHA’s Environmen- Margarita López, seen here speaking to a resident at one of the many public ABreukelen Houses resi- at the Brooklyn develop- meetings she attended during her eight years at NYCHA, retired in April. tal Coordinator, where she led dent, was honored recently ment. She was profiled in the the establishment of the Housing Development, she developed a Prior to joining NYCHA, by New Yorkers for Parks at October 2012 issue of the Authority’s Green Committee; comprehensive strategic plan and Ms. López was a City Coun- their annual Daffodil Break- Journal for her gardening, and created an energy conservation transformed the organizational cil Member. Before that, she fast. The event pays tribute has won awards in NYCHA’s education campaign for NYCHA structure of the agency’s Resident worked to secure homes and to people and organizations annual Garden and Green- residents and staff; and over- Engagement Department, which services for people diagnosed whose dedication to their ing Competition. Ms. Ra- saw the greening and retrofit- will strengthen NYCHA’s commu- with mental illness, some of neighborhood open spaces meau moved in to Breukelen ting of NYCHA sites. As EVP nications and reaffirm transpar- whom also suffered from drug exemplifies the Daffodil Proj- Houses in 1976, and started for Community Programs and ency with its residents. and alcohol addictions. ect’s spirit of volunteerism. the garden the next year after The Daffodil Project memo- going to a workshop NYCHA rializes those lost during the held for budding gardeners. NYCHA Chair, Residents, Volunteers 2001 terrorist attacks. Over She started out by running a the past 13 years, five million hose from her kitchen sink, but All Help Make Developments Greener daffodils have been planted was able to really expand the everal events centered by volunteers across the city. garden after NYCHA allowed Saround Earth Day in late NYCHA is a partner in the her to connect to an outdoor April helped make a couple Daffodil Project. faucet. “I love nature,” she of NYCHA developments Ms. Rameau’s recognition said in 2012. “I plant one little greener and more shady. On came from her work in her seed and it becomes big flow- April 22 – Earth Day – NYCHA garden, called Breukelen Sight ers and plants.” Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye was at Woodside Houses in Queens to help plant a willow oak tree. Chair Olatoye joined the New York Restoration Project (NYRP) and residents to plant the tree next to the Woodside Senior Center, which will provide a clean area NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye digs in to help plant a tree at Woodside and shade in the summer. In Houses on Earth Day, April 22, 2014. At her left is Woodside Resident Association addition, the area around the President Ann Cotton Morris; at far right is NYCHA General Manager Cecil House. Woodside Houses sign on the corner of 51st Street and Newtown Road was mulched and had flowers planted. “NYCHA recognizes the value of trees and other green- More than 110 trees were planted at Woodside Houses on April 20, 2014. ery,” said Chair Olatoye. “That’s why, with our residents and our Woodside Houses on April tifying the area, the trees also partners such as the New York 20 by Woodside residents, will improve air quality, absorb Restoration Project, we have NYRP, and volunteers from Jet carbon, and filter rainwater. planted more than 12,000 trees Blue. The planting was part of Then on April 23, residents of citywide, an accomplishment JetBlue’s seventh annual One Amsterdam Houses in Manhat- which contributes to the City’s Thing That’s Green event. The tan joined NYRP and volunteers goal of planting one million trees planted included dog- from Fordham University to trees across all the boroughs.” wood, crabapple, willow oak, plant five trees in conjunction The tree planted that day and fruit trees, like Whitegold with a recent exhibit at the added to the more than 110 cherry, Kieffer pear, and various school called Palas por Pistolas trees that were planted at apple trees. Aside from beau- (Shovels for Pistols). NYCHA residents and staff joined volunteers to plant five trees at Amsterdam Houses on April 23, 2014. Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. The Housing Authority Journal May 2014 7

Install Air NYCHA Youth Takes Prize in Why Do So Many Tenant & Resident Associations Conditioners Statewide Competition at NYCHA Use BOB MANN TOURS? s reported on in the Manhattan, won first place in We Offer: Safely AMarch issue of the the NYSPHADA competition, rior to installation of an air Journal, Ilham Moumou for which she gets a $2,500 Pconditioner in an apartment, who lives in Queensbridge scholarship paid directly to the tenant(s) of record must South Houses in Queens, her college. She is the first sign NYCHA form 150.110 was nominated by NYCHA NYCHA resident to win the Appliance Agreement, that has for a college scholarship NYSPHADA scholarship in been executed by the Housing given by the New York State the five-year history of Manager or the latter’s designee. chapter of the Public Hous- the program. The Agreement requires that ing Authorities Directors “I hope that my story residents notify NYCHA within Association (NYSPHADA). inspires many young kids to three days after installation of Ms. Moumou, a senior at work hard and follow their GROUP PACKAGES TO: the air conditioner has been LaGuardia High School in dreams,” Ms. Moumou said. Baltimore, Great Blacks in Wax Museum, Heritage Tours, completed. Air conditioners Nordic & Pocono Lobsterfeasts, Myrtle Beach, must be installed at your own Philadelphia Black Holocaust Museum, and Much More! expense in accordance with the inside window track to prevent the manufacturer’s specified following specifications: the window from lifting upward. brackets, placed under the air Call us at 718-628-9030 • Except as otherwise provided • The air conditioner is to be conditioner, are prohibited. Email:[email protected] below, the air conditioner unit permanently attached into the You must notify immediately www.bobmanntours.com must fit the entire width of window opening. the Management Office or the window. There cannot be • Structurally sound barriers the Centralized Call Center at immediately. your apartment on an emergency any open unguarded spaces must be installed on one 718-707-7771 when any air If, during an inspection, basis to correct the hazard. greater than 4 1/2 inches. or both sides of the air conditioner is to be removed it is determined that your It is vital to the safety and • Two “L” shaped stops are conditioner when the air from any window. Upon this air conditioner is installed well being of you, your family, required in the window track conditioner does not fill the notification, you must schedule improperly and presents a clear and your neighbors that window when the space between the entire width of the window an appointment during business and present danger of falling out guards and air conditioners are air conditioner and the fully and the unguarded space hours for a maintenance of the window, it will be removed installed in compliance with New raised window sash is greater or spaces would otherwise worker to be present when immediately, and a window York City law and the rules of the than 4 1/2 inches. exceed 4 1/2 inches. the air conditioner is removed, guard will be installed in its place. New York City Housing Authority. • “L” shaped stops must be • Bricks, wood, insulation, or in order to replace the air If you are not home to provide Please make every effort to help installed in both sides of the any other object, other than conditioner with a window guard access, staff is authorized to enter us help you!

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May is National Asthma Residents Learn How to Eat Healthy Awareness Month With reporting by Jeremy House ay is National Asthma and other chronic respira- MAwareness Month. tory illnesses. Many of the Organized by the U.S. Envi- health effects of secondhand ronmental Protection Agency smoke, including asthma, are and other partners across the most clearly seen in children country, the month is de- because children are most signed to bring attention to vulnerable to its effects. this lung disease that makes The health of all NYCHA it hard to breathe. residents can be helped Many NYCHA develop- by reducing exposure to ore than 60 residents, NYCHA’s Garden and Green- cardiovascular disease, osteo- ments are located in neigh- secondhand smoke. Smoking MHousing Authority employ- ing Program was a topic, espe- porosis, and several forms of borhoods that have the is not permitted in NYCHA ees, and members of partner cially how it can provide healthy cancer have been defined as highest asthma rates in the common areas such as lob- agencies gathered on March food to residents. “I am trying to diet-related diseases. City, such as the South Bronx bies, elevators, stairs, and 28 at NYCHA’s first Healthy bring gardening and healthy eat- “I have seen kids that I have and East and Central Harlem. public hallways. NYCHA Food Summit. They discussed ing to my fellow residents,” said volunteered for, they eat too Asthma is the most com- encourages smokers to be the healthy food programming Christina Johnson, the Resident much sugar and they can’t mon chronic health condition considerate of neighbors, NYCHA offers, and talked about Association President at Lexing- concentrate,” said Ms. Monroe- among children. It can be especially families that have opportunities to maximize health ton Houses. “I am also looking Mayo. “When they change controlled by working with children and residents with and wellness for residents. to start a pop-up pantry in the their diets, plus with the guid- a doctor to find the right asthma and other health In recent years NYCHA school I work at.” ance from their counselors, they medication and by reducing conditions that might be developed partnerships with Residents picked up ideas become much more productive, exposure to asthma triggers affected by exposure to many groups that are connected that they can bring back to their communicative, and calm and I’d such as household pets, pests, secondhand smoke. NYCHA to expanding efforts to improve neighborhoods. “Today I learned like to see more of that.” pollen, and cigarette smoke. is committed to improving access to and consumption of several ways to gain access to The Healthy Food Summit According to the Ameri- access to information and healthy food. These efforts go some resources out there who was held in March because it can Lung Association, expo- resources that help residents along with an expanded focus are working with organizations was National Nutrition Month, sure to secondhand smoke who want to quit smoking. at the local and national levels that help you connect with super- with the theme of “Enjoy the can trigger asthma episodes For help with asthma or around improving nutrition and markets and bodegas in getting Taste of Eating Right.” Consumer and make asthma attacks quitting smoking call 311. reducing obesity. healthy food at a discounted research confirms that taste is more serious. Secondhand You can find additional re- “We are hurting ourselves. price,” said Barbara Williams, the more important to people than smoke also is linked to other sources to help quit by People don’t realize that when Resident Association President at nutrition when they choose what health problems, including visiting nyc.gov and search- you eat unhealthy you damage Polo Grounds Towers. food to buy. The key messages lung cancer, ear infections, ing for “NYC Quits.” your own system,” said Angeline NYCHA’s overarching goal for National Nutrition Month Monroe-Mayo, the Resident As- for health programming and focused on how to combine taste sociation President at De Hostos partnerships is to increase resi- and nutrition to create healthy Apartments. “A healthier person dent access to information and meals that follow the federal has a much better self-esteem resources to support health and government’s Dietary Guidelines and outlook on life.” wellness at every age. Diabetes, recommendations. Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected].

West Nile Virus Mosquito Treatment

The New York City Housing Authority will be treating all of the catch basins located on Housing Authority developments to reduce the mosquito population in an effort to minimize the transmission of the West Nile Virus. These treatments will take place between May and September of 2014. One or more of the following pesticides will be used:

Vectolex CG, EPA Reg. No. 73049-20, Toxicity Category – “Caution” Summit B.t.i. Briquets, EPA Reg. No. 6218-47, Toxicity Category – “Caution” Altosid XR, EPA Reg. No. 2724-421, Toxicity Category – “Caution”

Contact names and numbers for this application are; NYC Housing Authority: Raymond Gamble, Administrator, 718-707-5306 available from 9 am – 5 pm Denise Torres, Technical Resource Advisor, 718-707-8032 available from 8 am – 4 pm NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Region 2, Bureau of Pesticide Management – 718-482-4994 National Pesticide Telecommunications Network – 1-800-858-PEST Inquiries concerning symptoms of pesticide poisoning should be directed to the Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222 The Housing Authority Journal May 2014 9

Construction Begins on New

Take Nine Steps to Prevent Falls Basketball Court and Playground 1. Exercise every day 2. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review all of your at Baisley Park Houses medications esidents at Baisley Park 3. Get your vision checked at least once a year RHouses soon will have 4. Increase the lighting in your apartment new outdoor space to run 5. Keep your floors clear and play. Ground was broken 6. Avoid going barefoot or wearing slippers on April 16 on the renovation 7. Never use a chair as a step stool of the basketball court and 8. Use a non-slip mat in your bathtub playground at the Queens de- 9. Install grab bars next to the tub and toilet – call NYCHA’s velopment. NYCHA is able to Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771 to request renovate these recreational ar- the installation of grab bars in your bathroom eas thanks to elected officials For more information call 311 and request a FREE copy such as City Council Member of the “How to Prevent Falls” health bulletin published Ruben Wills, who advocated by the New York City Department of Health and Mental for the residents and worked Hygiene. You also may access this booklet on the internet with the Housing Authority to at: www.nyc.gov/html/doh/downloads/pdf/public/ help secure federal funding. dohmhnews9-04.pdf. “We are so pleased to partner with Council Member Wills ment, safety surfacing, and Hogan. “Councilman Wills to renovate these recreational benches, and the color surface and NYCHA have displayed areas and provide a safer, of the spray shower area will be a level of service which can more enjoyable space for our shaped like a fish. The residents be characterized as respectful Chair Olatoye Joins Town Hall children and community,” said were involved at every stage and it is greatly appreciated.” NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola of the project’s development. “This project and partner- Meeting at Parkside Houses Olatoye. “These important NYCHA conducted town hall ship highlights the rigorous n April 17, NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye joined City renovations will support a meetings and open forums and efforts NYCHA has invested OCouncil Public Housing Committee Chair Ritchie Torres for stronger and healthier Baisley incorporated their feedback into to improve the lives of public a town hall meeting with residents of Parkside Houses. The event Park community.” the plans. housing residents,” said was one of many Chair Olatoye has been attending to address The renovated basket- “Many of the residents have Council Member Wills. “The her priority of resetting NYCHA’s relationship with residents and ball court will include new waited an extended period efficiency, turn around, and stakeholders. chain link fencing, benches, of time and now will witness engagement of residents on “Tonight I want to hear from you. I want to learn from you,” said bleachers, basketball posts, the fruits of their patience and this project was commend- Chair Olatoye. “Above all, NYCHA’s mission is to provide decent backboards, hoops, and trash persistence with this newly able and should be a model affordable housing and access to social services to the more than receptacles, and it will be re- renovated playground and used for future endeavors.” 630,000 people who call NYCHA their home.” paved. The playground, which outdoor basketball facility,” said Construction is scheduled Organized by Council Member Torres, Parkside residents at- includes a spray shower area, Baisley Park Houses Resident to be completed before the tended the meeting to voice their concerns about needed repairs, will receive new play equip- Association President Robert end of the year. security, and joint staffing with Gun Hill Houses. Chair Olatoye reminded residents that NYCHA is working to better serve the Park- side community but challenges still lay ahead. “NYCHA is working to identify ways to provide better customer service,” said Chair Olatoye. “We are beginning to prioritize repairs that were delayed because of Hurricane Sandy. In the meantime, we have had to make some tough decisions that have affected devel- 2014 CCNY & MAD SPORTS opments like yours.” Chair Olatoye also attended a town hall meeting on April 28, held by City Council Member Laurie Cumbo at the Ingersoll MULTI‐SPORTS CAMP Community Center in Brooklyn. TENNIS . BASKETBALL. SOCCER. SOFTBALL .VOLLEYBALL. CHESS. ARTS & CRAFTS. FLAG‐FOOTBALL. BOXING.MARTIAL ARTS.SWIMMING. FITNESS.HEALTH SUMMER CAMP July 7th—August 1st For children ages 5‐14

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Camp located at City College on 137th Street and Convent Avenue. NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye speaks at a town hall meeting with Parkside For more information: Houses residents on April 17, 2014. She was joined by City Council Member Ritchie Torres (front right) who organized the meeting, and Parkside Resident MADSPORTSINC.COM . Telephone: Call: (888) 335‐1398 Association President Lilithe Lozano (front center).

Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. 10 May 2014 The Housing Authority Journal

NYCHA Furniture New York City’s Paid Sick Distribution Program Leave Law Took Effect April 1

Helps Residents in nder this historic law, cer- domestic employees. notice must be in English Utain employers must give The law covers full-time and and your primary language Times of Need their employees sick leave, part-time employees, temporary if the translation is available which they can use for the employees, transitional jobs at nyc.gov/PaidSickLeave. care and treatment of them- program employees, undocu- Currently, Spanish, Chinese, selves or a family member. mented employees, employees French-Creole, Korean, Ital- who are family members but not ian, and Russian are avail- Covered Employees owners, and employees who able, and Arabic and Bengali If you work more than 80 live outside of New York City versions will be available hours a calendar year in New but work in the City. soon. York City for an employer that has five or more employees, Sick Leave Accrual Use of Accrued Sick Leave your employer must provide If you are an existing employee Existing employees can start paid sick leave. If your em- – you were working for your using accrued sick leave on ployer has less than five em- employer before April 1 – you July 30. New employees who ployees, your employer must began accruing sick leave on started work on or after April provide unpaid sick leave. April 1. Employees accrue one 1 can start using accrued sick If you are a domestic hour of sick leave for every 30 leave 120 days after their first worker who has worked for hours worked, up to 40 hours day on the job. Johnson Houses resident Maria Dávila received new furniture, including this the same employer for at of sick leave per calendar year. couch, through NYCHA’s Furniture Distribution Program after Hurricane Sandy. least a year and you work Your employer determines the Retaliation more than 80 hours a calen- calendar year. Your employer cannot retali- YCHA’s Furniture • Bronx 718-409-8699 dar year in New York City, ate against you for using sick NDistribution Program • Brooklyn 718-498-3243 your employer must provide Notice of Employee Rights leave. You have a right to file provides gently used • Manhattan 212-334-2506 two days of paid sick leave Employers must give the a complaint at furniture to NYCHA resi- • Queens 718-206-3286 in addition to the three days required “Notice of Employee nyc.gov/PaidSickLeave or dents affected by disaster, • Staten Island 718-816-1521 of paid rest that you are Rights” created by the Depart- by contacting 311. domestic violence, or other In order to provide suitable guaranteed under New York ment of Consumer Affairs to For more information, traumatic experiences that furniture for families in need, State Labor Law. Visit new employees when they be- visit nyc.gov/PaidSickLeave result in the loss of furnish- the Furniture Distribution Pro- nyc.gov/PaidSickLeave gin employment and to exist- or contact 311 and ask for ings or the need to relocate. gram relies on New York City for information specific to ing employees by May 1. The “Paid Sick Leave.” The Furniture Distribution residents and businesses who Program’s goal is to provide generously donate unused these families with not only or unwanted furniture. The furniture, but also with hope program accepts beds, dress- Famous for Being Green for a fresh start. Residents ers, sofas, dining sets, lamps, new environmentally- can contact their local Family televisions, microwaves, and Afriendly affordable hous- Services Department office household appliances. To ing apartment building helped to learn if they meet assis- make a furniture donation, its developer get national tance criteria: please call 212-306-3472. recognition. Blue Sea Develop- ment Company was selected as the Outstanding Affordable Developer by the U.S. Green Join the NYCHA/NFL Building Council in their 2013 LEED for Homes Awards. One Football Officiating of Blue Sea’s projects was Ar- bor House, which is located on Academy land at Forest Houses that was YCHA’s Education officials on a national level, sold by NYCHA to a private NThrough Sports Unit is and enhances the overall developer. teaming up again with the perception of officiating The building has 124 National Football League through national campaigns apartments, a rooftop hydro- (NFL) to present the 5th an- and programming. ponic farm that provides fresh living green wall installation in set aside with preference for nual NYCHA/NFL Football This year, the NYCHA/NFL produce for building residents the lobby. Twenty-five per- NYCHA residents and people Officiating Academy. Football Officiating Academy and the local community, and a cent of the apartments were on NYCHA’s waiting list. The Football Officiat- will be held from June 16-Au- ing Academy is an eight- gust 4. Sessions will run from week initiative designed 5:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. at 787 Apply to Join Green City Force for NYCHA residents ages Atlantic Ave in Brooklyn. For 17-30, to provide men and more information please he April issue of the and Green City Force to re- call to register for an informa- women with the critical skills call the Education Through T Journal included informa- cruit NYCHA residents ages 18 tion session is 718-289-8100. needed to become a foot- Sports Unit at 212-306-3338, tion about the partnership to 24, who have a High School Residents also can go online ball official. In addition, the 212-306-3351, 212-306-3390, between NYCHA’s Office of Diploma or GED, for its paid at Opportunitynycha.org. academy assists the NFL to 212-306-3388, or Resident Economic Empower- vocational training program. The application period is from broaden the pool of football 212-306-3341. ment and Sustainability (REES) The correct phone number to March 25 to mid-May.