Issue 17 June 2008 Ludlow Homes Sell Despite Credit Crunch There’S a Lot of Talk These Days About During Her Two Years Renting in the Housing Market Being in a Rut

Home , Dawn Staley

Issue 17 June 2008 Ludlow Homes sell despite credit crunch There’s a lot of talk these days about During her two years renting in the housing market being in a rut. Grays Ferry, she received several Don’t tell that to the families who open house invitations from PHA, have reached agreements to buy the but she had to overcome some new PHA houses at Ludlow. These credit problems. homebuyers saw an opportunity and seized it. She received counseling from one of the agencies that works with PHA “A lot of the families who are moving residents to help them restore their in can see that Northern Liberties credit and save for a down payment West is a neighborhood on the rise, on a home. Housing counseling and they want to grow with it,” says helped her budget her money, too. Malvin Reyes of PHA’s Home Sales She doesn’t shop as often as she used New Homeowner team. “The area still has some rough to, cooks at home more, and buys Page 03 patches but it is quickly changing, DVD’s instead of going to movies. and these new residents are making a great investment in their futures.” Purdie now owns a 3-bedroom home with two baths. She and her son One of the new buyers is Lashawn New Ludlow homeowner Lashawn Purdie accepts keys from PHA’s Cheryle have their own bedrooms while the Purdie, who like several others, is Smalls. Lashawn loves her brand-new home. third bedroom is an exercise room. expected to move this June. Purdie, But there were other features that who lives with her 7-year-old son, had Purdie is a social worker for the State plans on a career in probation and attracted her to Ludlow. been living at Greater Grays Ferry of Pennsylvania and a part-time parole because she’d like to help Estates before making the big move student at Temple, where she is people coming out of the prison continued on page 14 into first-time homeownership. majoring in criminal justice. She system get back on their feet. Residents Like Renovations Page 05 Pageant winner had to It’s always darkest after jump through hoops Dawn moves to S.C. Fourteen-year-old Tykia McWilliams “Philly is always going to be my medals playing for the U.S. Women’s was very nervous at the start of the first home,” insists Dawn Staley. Olympic basketball team. She’ll be an PHA North Boys & Girls Club beauty assistant coach on this year’s team. Summer Food is pageant. By the end of the evening, she “South Carolina is borrowing me had shown the judges enough poise right now,” adds the Philly-born and Staley acknowledges that her roots Coming Page 14 and confidence to be crowned Miss public housing raised basketball are here, and her Philadelphia Fairmount Boys and Girls Club. But powerhouse, who left her connection will continue. before winning the crown, she had to position as Temple University’s “This is my hometown, the INDEX jump through a few hoops. women’s basketball coach programs that I started last month to coach the will go on,” she says of the Job Fair ...... 03 Tykia, an 8th grader at Spring Garden University of South Carolina Dawn Staley Foundation, Elementary School, won the crown Gamecocks. a nonprofit thatsponsors with an impressive Hula Hoop routine a leadership academy, Senior Living ...... 04 in which she danced swinging the Staley is a Philly a summer basketball hoop on every part of her body. The star in every league and an after-school Executive Director performance required grace and skill sense of the word. program for middle Message ...... 05 and was stumble free. She chose to During her eight school age girls. use the Hula Hoop because she “just years at Temple, wanted to do something different that she was named Staley calls Youth News ...... 07 One-time PHA resident Dawn Staley would make me stand out.” Big Five Coach of growing up in accepts the University of South Carolina Hula Hoops will never be the same the Year five times PHA’s Raymond head basketball coach position at a Budgeting Classes . 09 The pageant winner said she had after Tykia McWilliams shows how and guided the Rosen housing press conference in Columbia. played with Hula Hoops as a small to use them in a dance routine that Owls to six NCAA site “a great child and devised the prize-winning helped her win first place at the tourneys. Staley was a standout experience. It was my foundation.” Recycling at PHA . . 11 PHA North Boys and Girls Club player for the WNBA before retiring continued on page 13 Beauty Pageant. in 2005 and earned three gold continued on page 14 PHA’s Graduates . . . 15 You’ve known each other since high school. You’ve always been the best of friends and now, both of you have reached the wonderful age of 40.

Congratulations!

Over the years, the two of you have shared stories about relationships, children, and ambitions — in both good times and bad. But now it’s time to add “breast cancer screenings” and “mammograms” to the list of things to discuss. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, but when the disease is diagnosed early, the ﬁ ve-year survival rate is 98%.

But don’t leave it at the talking stage. After the conversation, both of you should make an appointment for a mammogram today.

At Keystone Mercy, we believe every one of our female members over the age of 40 should have a mammogram once a year.

We also believe that one good way for that to happen is to talk about it.

Members who need help scheduling an appointment can call 1-800-521-6860.

A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 3 New PHA homeowner says ‘you can do it!’ Angela Allen, a Housing Choice certain things,” she says. Angela Voucher resident, was tired also found out that grants of renting. The desire to have are available from public and her own place had already private groups to help first-time been growing before she began homebuyers, once they build receiving notices in the mail from up some cash. Eventually, she PHA about homeownership. Ms. received grants from Women’s Allen had a good work record; Opportunity Resource Center she’s worked as a secretary at St. (WORC), Citizens Bank, and the Ignatius Nursing Home in West CDC Partnership to use toward a Philadelphia for nine years. She down payment and closing costs. had even won an award for saving someone’s life. Now, Angela was ready to begin looking. She began working with However, Angela needed some a local realtor who sent pictures help on budgeting and credit. of homes for purchase via the That’s where Internet. PHA’s home After seeing buying and “Don’t ever think that you about ten counseling houses, she programs can’t own your own home.” settled on a came in. She Angela Allen home in West learned how Philadelphia, to save money not far from and how to her workplace. Angela Allen in the living room of her new home. improve her credit by controlling At one time, she had lived across her spending so she could achieve the street from the corner home the American dream. Angela says she now owns. Her two sons love her new 1,400 yard is also a plus; one of her “I figured I would own a home, budgeting is the most important square foot home, which has four sons can now have a dog. It took but I didn’t think (it would thing she learned in the home “It’s big. It’s spacious. The bedrooms, and a big front porch. just six months from the time happen) so soon,” she says. buying classes. neighborhood…is well kept up. Allen says having upstairs and Angela Allen contacted PHA’s “Don’t ever think that you can’t The neighbors look like they take downstairs rooms is a plus, too, homeownership department to own your own home, because you “If you want something in pride in their property,” she says. especially when you need some realize her dream of homeownership. can do it!” life, you can’t be splurging on peace and quiet. And the back PHA’s June 28 Job Fair to offer one-stop shop for job hunters

Need a job? PHA is ready and Genesis Healthcare, Shop Rite and are hiring and can interview you willing to help. Just shine your shoes, Manpower. A computer lab will also on the spot. Private rooms will be put on your best suit and head off be set up with opportunities from available for personal interviews. to PHA’s 4th Annual Job Fair on employers who cannot personally Saturday, June 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 attend the Job Fair, but will accept So if you are looking to find a p.m. at the John F. Street Community online applications. Aides will be on job or interested in finding a Center, 1100 Poplar Street. hand to help job hunters navigate better job, the PHA Job Fair is the the employers’ web sites and fill out place to be on June 28. For more “Everyone is welcome to participate the applications. information, call Luz Paradoa at in our job fair,” says Luz Paradoa, 215-684-4366 or Rylanda Wilson Program Manager of PHA’s The Job Fair offers the chance to at 215-684-4161. Community Partners Program. “We speak directly with employers who will have our Community Partners here with material and advice, as well as employers with real jobs to fill.”

Bring your resume, if you have one. If you don’t, resume writing workshops will be run by Janice Harvey from the REDI program. To prepare you for the all-important interview, she’ll also be running workshops on skills and techniques to help land that job. PHA Executive Director Carl Greene joined Mayor Michael Nutter and There will also be a workshop about City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell at a City Hall news conference dressing for success. to announce a new campaign to reduce the number of people living on the street and the number of families living in shelters. Mr. Greene The Job Fair will be an opportunity applauded the mayor for bringing “a new vitality and a new energy” to to meet representatives from over The PHA Job Fair provides an opportunity to meet employers with the effort to reduce homelessness in the city. 30 employers, including Rite Aide, real jobs available. www.pha.phila.gov 4 LIFE participants ‘[M] Power’ their brains Marlene Upshur was beaming. games and puzzles on the She had just had her first “date” computer,” said Cwiklinski. Senior’s Calendar with a computer, and she was feeling terrific. JUNE Seniors turning high tech th “It was exciting!” said Upshur, at LIFE program 27 Wilson Park Senior Center’s Senior Prom – For tickets call 215.684.4895 a participant in the New 2508 Jackson Street from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Courtland LIFE Program at PHA’s [m]Power gives Upshur even more Germantown House site. (LIFE 27th Arms Café Ice-Cream Social to love about the New Courtland 6733 Emlen Street from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. stands for Living Independently for LIFE program. “It’s the best Elders). The program is designed to thing in my life,” said the former meet the needs Philadelphia JULY - SUMMER SAFETY MONTH of nursing Board of home-eligible “It was exciting!” Education 3rd PHA – New Courtland Living Well, Learning Well Series adults over employee. “New 6950 Germantown Avenue from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. the age of 60 Marlene Upshur Courtland LIFE 9th Hot Fun in the Summertime Health Fair – Excess Health Issues who desire gets me out of to continue the house and Liddonﬁeld Senior Center at 8800 Jackson Drive from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. living in their own homes or own into the world—a world that now community through the aid of 11th Arm’s Café – Jazz Breakfast on the Terrance involves computers—through a 6733 Emlen Street from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. supportive services. program that is accessible and…fun!” th Ms. Upshur, 68 and recovering 25 Germantown House Summer B-B-Q “I love puzzles and knitting, and 5457 Wayne Avenue from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. from hip surgery, is able to do now computers,” added Vera just that and was delighted to find Cheeks, 80, who has also had herself in front of the new [m] her first date with [m]Power. Ms. AUGUST - VACATION MONTH Power system now used at New Cheeks was delighted to find that st Courtland LIFE. The technology, she could instantly connect to the 1 Under the Boardwalk Beach Party technology. “I was matching objects Wilson Park Senior Center at 2508 Jackson Street from 10:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. and unscrambling words, and it 22nd The Philly Senior Sports Day – For Tickets call 215-684-5950 wasn’t difficult at all. I have some Citizens Park at Patterson Avenue from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. eyesight issues, but I could really see this screen just fine.” SEPTEMBER - GRANDPARENTS’ MONTH Watching over the two New Courtland LIFE participants is 10th Senior Advisory Board Quarterly Meeting Therapeutic Recreation Coordina- Emlen Arms at 6733 Emlen Street from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. tor Agina Shaw. “The [m]Power system has been a real hit,” she said. 16th - 19th Wildwood NJ Trip (3 Days 2 Nights) – For more information call 215.684.5950 “Computers can open the door to Buses leaving from Liddonﬁeld Older Adult Center a whole new world for our LIFE 8800 Jackson Drive participants, empowering them to th live more independently.” 25 Caregivers Workshops John Street Community Center from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. PHA partners with New Courtland to provide LIFE services at Marlene Upshur Germantown House and with Mercy Health at Wilson Park. explains Beth Cwiklinski, center Part of the New Courtland Elder director of the New Courtland Services network, New Courtland LIFE program, is designed to LIFE provides eligible residents promote mental fitness for seniors, of its service area with home which is an important way to help health care, personal care support, keep the brain sharp even as the prescription coordination, physical body ages. Still, therapy, to promote recreational long-term “I love puzzles and knitting, activities and participation, transportation the exercises are and now computers.” to health-related also designed to Vera Cheeks appointments, be fun. among other services, and Users of [m] is covered by Power are not required to have Medicaid/Medicare or private-pay. any computer background at all. To enroll or request more Logging in simply involves face information call 1-888-NCLIFE4 recognition, and the touch screen (625-4334). PHA residents can also is totally user-friendly. “Our call Kelly Williams at Germantown participants have been amazed to House, 215-684-4400. Charlrita Reid decorates Destiny Thomas’ face at a Health Fair held in May at Wilson Park Community Center. find they can do mathproblems,

A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 5 Residents find PHA’s renovations uplifting and rejuvenating PHA’s $23 million investment in so residents and the surrounding last 10 to 15 years. They received site repairs and upgrades is sitting neighborhood can benefit. them in the form of new windows well with residents. The agency throughout the development, has gone back to the basics of Two resident leaders, Wallace interior and exterior painting, and property Nicholson Venetian blinds. management and Marlene to make its Lynch, recently Nicholson believes the new windows developments “It’s uplifting to the morale expressed their will make Holmecrest more sparkle and satisfaction to the energy efficient and safer for the give residents of the people.” PHA Board of residents. He points out that the homes they Wallace Nicholson Commissioners. old windows were too small and can be proud made it hard to escape in case of of. Teams of Nicholson, an emergency, such as a fire. managers the resident have visited sites across council president at Holmecrest “It [the old windows] was like the city to make first-hand Homes in the Far Northeast, half a window. You slid it back recommendations on ways to noted that residents had been and the other side didn’t move. improve public housing properties asking for renovations for the Now, we have full windows if you have to get out,” he says.

The paint job at Holmecrest has made the development brighter, even shiny at night, Nicholson says. The Venetian blinds bring a uniform, more consistent look to the apartments; in the past, some residents had shades while others had curtains. “When this was done, everyone was rejuvenated and encouraged and lifted up. It’s uplifting to the morale of the people,” Nicholson says.

Over at Champlost Homes in Olney, residents are thrilled Resident leader Wallace Nicholson shows off the new windows at Holmecrest. that their community center is receiving a face-lift. center’s computer lab. Crews are other person ever did anything.” also repainting the center with Lynch says the renovations will Marlene Lynch, acting president washable paint that can be easily make the community center, of the resident council there, cleaned of fingerprints and other now 48 years old, a more says new, energy efficient dirt so the center can gleam. attractive place to residents of windows have been installed at Champlost and the surrounding the center. New blinds will be “I want to thank Mr. Greene for neighborhood. Marlene Lynch says the renovations at the Champlost Community Center installed, too, which will help what he’s done,” Lynch says. “No will make it a more attractive place for residents. protect the computers in the

The very first response in the unsafe or very unsafe in their management and repair staff your neighborhood as a way of survey stands out for me. It parking areas. When asked are responsive and professional. joining with us to make your says 88% of PHA families are why crime is a problem, 50% About 73% would recommend community even stronger. satisfied or very satisfied with of respondents say it’s because their housing development to a their homes. It is gratifying to “residents don’t care” enough to friend or family member looking know that so many of you think want to solve the problem. That for public housing. Thank you, we are doing a good job in that tells us that we must do a better regard, but the job of informing Our property managers and results also tell “A recent survey says residents how support employees take great us we can still they can join pride in satisfying every do better. that 88% of PHA Town Watch and customer. We have endured other programs tremendous staff reductions Public safety families are satisfied to make their in the past two years because It is always educational for me also continues or very satisfied with communities of decreasing federal funding, to read the annual PHA Resident to be an issue safer. and have had to reduce some Carl R. Greene Satisfaction Survey. It’s the one on many of their homes.” services as a result. But our time each year I am able to get your minds. Other responses commitment to you is as strong an overall sense of what our While 87% of respondents say remain consistent from previous as ever. I encourage you to customers think of the product they feel safe or very safe in years. The great majority of get involved with the resident and service we provide. their homes, 32% say they feel customers are satisfied that organization at your site or in

www.pha.phila.gov 6

How are your children spending the summer?

Karimah Muhammad – Johnson Homes Son, 12-year old Jabril Shabazz “Going to camp on the Parkway.”

Eileen Aponte – Johnson Homes Son, 5-year old Sintere “Working to place him in camp for two weeks and going to amusement park.”

Antoinette Alexander – Johnson Homes Children - Lumuel, Talina, Charine “Going to camp for the entire summer.”

Glendell Howard – Johnson Homes 4 year old Damani “Going to camp for six weeks.”

April Brooks – Greater Grays Ferry “I’m taking my teenage grandchildren to the amusement parks and to some historic sites.”

Imone Richardson – Greater Grays Ferry “We’re planning a great summer together. A picnic or two. Perhaps we’ll fly a kite or take a hike outside the city. As long as we are together.”

Latafha Ford – Greater Grays Ferry “It will be fun for the both of us. The kids off to camp, and I’ll enjoy time to myself.”

A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 7

Young teens also need Skills for Life program RAB For 13-year old Portia Kinard, the “And they feed you well,” she adds “This is a great program,” says And that has happened. In program at the Harrison Elementary with a grin. Perkins. “It helps them build addition, Brittany’s relationships School Beacon Center is a safe haven. their reading skills, and they can with her teachers have improved. president But most of all, the program write to one another. And we can “When people leave school, provides a place where Portia monitor what they’re writing.” “Before, they never asked me to do people get into can explore a lot of things. Now, they ask me to arguments new academic Brittany Leary, 14, is on the computer help because they know I work hard.” speaks up and fight,” frontiers and now, checking the Teen Biz stories she explains. “Here in the program they achieve and writing to her friends. The Skills for Life program follows “Here in the academic youngsters through high school. program, they protect you.” success. Brittany says that when she began The program requires daily protect you. Portia Kinard the program, she struggled in attendance and provides career They know Portia brings school. It was especially difficult for and college counseling, homework where you’re her homework her to keep from talking in class. assistance and social activities. going and what to the program “Here they kept telling me, ‘you you’re doing.” and the need to change your behavior.’ They For more information, please call counselors have helped her bring said if I did, I’d get good grades.” 215-684-4161. her math grade up from an F to a RAB president Asia Coney C+. As her grades are improving, Portia intends to apply to the city’s Asia Coney, president of the premier high schools: Central, Skills for Life Sites Resident Advisory Board (RAB), Girls High and Masterman. She thinks that the recent decision has not decided whether she Crusaders for Christ Cunningham Community wants to be a professional singer Christian Academy Center by the Chicago Housing or a pediatrician, but here she can 1201 South 47th Street Harrison Plaza Authority to eliminate tenant pursue all her options. Philadelphia, PA 19143 1350 N. 10th Street councils at mixed-use sites “is 215-387-3014 Philadelphia, PA 19122 a very bad idea.” “She sings with two other girls. We 215- 684-2519 call them the Beacon Ensemble,” She adds that tenants who explains counselor Lea Perkins. Diversified Community Southwest Community live in housing sites that mix “We had a Gospel-Rama Night Services Center renters and homeowners Vare Beacon 6424 Woodland Avenue and between 100 and 200 people “still need a voice and came out.” 2101 South 24th Street Philadelphia, PA 19142 Philadelphia, PA 19145 215- 729-8911 representation.” Portia credits the program with 215- 952-0806 At PHA mixed sites, renters are Portia Kinard giving all the youngsters whatever tools they need to become Frankford Group Ministry The Lighthouse, represented by Resident Councils, engaged. “If you want to jump Frankford Beacon Youth Services and homeowners have their own rope, they will find you a rope. 500 Oxford Ave. 141 West Somerset Avenue homeowners association. “We If you want to play tennis, they Philadelphia, PA 19124 Philadelphia, PA 19133 meet with their representatives will help you. If you want to use a 215- 743- 0122 215- 425-7804 and work together,” says Coney, computer, they will find one.” who adds that on a daily living Friends Neighbors W. Phila Alliance level at those sites it is hard to Guild for Children Program builds skills 703 North 8th Street 1401 North 60th Street distinguish the renters from Philadelphia, PA 19123 Philadelphia, PA 19151 the homeowners. Portia likes computers. She 215- 923-1544 PO Box 28885 especially likes a program called 215- 452-0333 Coney points out that the Teen Biz that posts articles of tenant councils have a interest to Teens and then asks Germantown United Communities working relationship with PHA them questions about it. Teen Biz Settlement Southeast Philadelphia managers that helps to make also has puzzles and an e-mail Building C Bok Beacon sites more livable for everyone. tool that enables the youngsters 5538 Wayne Avenue 8th & Mifflin Street “If any individual is tardy with in the program to write to one Philadelphia, PA 19144 Philadelphia, PA 19148 the rent,” she says, “a member 215- 849-3104 215- 952-8549 another under the watchful eye of of the resident council can go Brittany Leary counselors like Lea Perkins. to the resident and tell them that is affecting the revenue at the site and putting the Nations’s largest housing authority hurting resident’s family at risk.” She adds that the council also Reductions in funding from the raise rents by five to 15 percent on City Council that some apartments funding cutbacks as New York. The helps when new PHA managers federal government continue their highest income households. might no longer be rentable downward trend in public housing come on board and aren’t to plague the nation’s housing because of the lack of capital funds funding has continued since 2002. familiar with issues at the site. authorities, and in particular the Like many housing authorities, to maintain them. “It’s a partnership,” adds Coney. nation’s largest housing authority in NYCHA has had to shift money for PHA executive Director Carl “I happen to feel where there is New York City. the past few years from its capital The consequences in New York Greene has said on many occasions resident or tenant participation, budget to its operating budget to are greatly magnified because of that unless there is a change in it makes for a better run site.” Federal under-funding has become so cover day-to-day activities. The the sheer size of the agency. It priorities at the federal level the severe there that the agency’s leaders say capital budget is used to maintain serves about five times as many future of public housing is bleak. PHA has no plans to follow the they will have to close all community the apartments and buildings. The residents as PHA. Yet Philadelphia That’s an assessment shared by Chicago model. and senior centers in their system and head of NYCHA, Doug Apple, told has suffered from the same housing officials nationwide. www.pha.phila.gov A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 9 A once in a lifetime opportunity comes to Raeem Allen Raeem Allen grew in North Allen, now 25, recently achieved impressed Johnson with his skill Philadelphia without a father and “journeyman” status with the and craftsmanship. with little money. His family lived Cement Masons Union having in homes that are part of PHA’s gotten his start through PHA’s Allen began taking classes in the Scattered Sites program. Yet, Pre-Apprenticeship program. But Pre-Apprenticeship Program Raeem managed to make a success his journey to getting his union in 2007, but it was apparent to of himself through courage and card was very unusual and a George Johnson that this young hard work. He’s joined the middle testament to his grit, intelligence man already had the skills he class and owns a home in Northeast and determination. needed to qualify for a union job. Philadelphia. He can offer more Johnson spoke to Mike Fara, the to his two sons than he could have Allen was a student at Benjamin president of the Cement Masons ever expected as a child. Franklin High School when he Union. The union gave him credit received a job offer from his for his previous work experience cousin, who worked for Try and decided to test him by sending Hard, Inc., a concrete company. him to a work site at Philadelphia He began working on weekends International Airport. Allen passed Prison Runs and during the summer, learning with flying colors. If you need to visit a loved all he could about the concrete one in prison, please contact business, until he graduated from “I was like ‘Yes!’” Allen says. “I was high school in 2000. very, very grateful. It was a once J&H Transport, LLC. in a lifetime opportunity. Many Traveling to 25 State guys don’t get that far.” (Usually, correctional institutions Began taking classes the union requires several years of classes and work as an apprentice For Reservations After graduation, Allen stayed with before candidates qualify for their please call the company full time, making good permanent or “journeyman’s card.”) (215) 989-9436 money for a high school graduate, but nowhere near what he’d make Life has definitely changed for Allen.” as a union cement mason. I can afford to take a vacation. I have a car now. I meet great people. Two years later, Allen ran into I’m just grateful,” he says. George Johnson, the director of the Pre-Apprenticeship Program. In fact, when he spoke with The He began working for Johnson, PHA Experience, Allen was on who owns a small remodeling vacation with his two sons at “It was a once in a lifetime opportunity,” says Pre-Apprenticeship company independent of PHA, and Disney World in Orlando. grad Raeem Allen. PHA to offer free financial classes Are you having problems making There will be four classes in your rent payment the first of the the course, which will be held month? Is it a struggle to purchase at Johnson Homes, Harrison your kids’ school supplies, clothing Community Center, West and groceries and still pay rent? Park Apartments, Wilson Park Community Center and Hill PHA believes that paying rent on time Creek Computer Center. All of is so important, that the agency will these locations are HUD-funded be offering free Financial Literacy Neighborhood Network Computer classes starting in September to Centers, so participants in the help residents budget their income. program will be able to use the “We want to computers educate our to conduct residents about “We want to educate our the financial the importance residents about paying rent.” planning of paying their transactions rent on the Charles Lanier - PHA Manager that they learn first of the in class. month and give them some tools to do so,” explains PHA is partnering with the Wachovia admissions manager Charles Lanier. Foundation to offer the classes. Trained staff members will be “We’ll be giving them tips on how teaching the course, and financial to shop. We’ll explain how to save planning materials will be provided. The Carpenters - Ten PHA residents beam with satisfaction after graduating from PHA’s for those occasions that come every Residents who are regularly late Pre-Apprenticeship Program and qualifying as journeymen carpenters. The new graduates are, from year like Christmas and the first day paying rent will be strongly encour- left to right, Jacqueline Jones Clark, David James, James Witherspoon, Tiffany Briggs, Ashanti Freeman, of school. We want them to be better aged to attend, but the classes are David Moody, Jamal Johnson, George Johnson-training coordinator and Lance Washington. Not shown prepared to have a good holiday and open to all residents. For more are Theresa Howard and Natasha Maple, who were unable to attend the ceremony. also pay their rent on time,” he adds. information, call 215-684-4161. www.pha.phila.gov A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 11 Curbside recycling and trash pickup keep PHA sites clean Summer in the city can be hot and and dedicated recyclers can use an place their trash in front of their gritty, but PHA sites will be greener additional container, like a laundry homes for weekly pickup. and cleaner now that curbside basket or box, if necessary. recycling is coming to all sites and “It is much more convenient to curbside trash pickup will begin at “We hope that everyone will buy put it out front,” said Wilson Wilson Park. into the recycling project,” said Park Property Manager Brett General Manager Ron Docimo. Holden. “It will be easier for the Residents at Wilson Park, Harrison “We’re happy to be working as a team residents, and it is going to help Plaza, and with the City our workload, also.” College View to encourage began helping “We hope that everyone recycling in our Until June, Wilson Park residents to clean up the sites.” had to take their trash to the environment will buy into the corner, resulting in a huge on June 1, Every two weeks mountain of trash every week. when the City recycling project” throughout the The City’s trash trucks could not of Philadelphia Ron Docimo - PHA GM summer, new enter the development because started weekly sites will be Wilson Park, like other older public pickup of all added to the housing sites, did not have city recyclable program until streets running through. Trash is now set inside containers at curbside instead of the old items, including cans, plastic all PHA residents are able to help big pile at the end of the block. Recycling has begun as well. bottles, newspaper and cardboard. create a greener Philadelphia. That situation has changed now PHA provided recycling bins to that PHA has built streets that run Not only was the weekly trash pickup. This will help the site look all residents. The different items At PHA’s Wilson Park site, not only through the development. Now the pile an eyesore, but, according to cleaner.” And keeping PHA sites do not need to be separated. are residents able to recycle at the trucks can enter and take both the Holden, “There was always left looking great is a beautiful thing. Everything can go into one bin, curb, for the first time they can also trash and the recyclables. over trash blowing around after the Town Hall meeting for the disabled

PHA held a Town Hall Meeting for disabled residents that in May at the Wilson Park Community Center. More than 100 disabled housing residents came to hear an extensive review of PHA’s wheelchair-accessible apartments and houses. An independent study showed that more than 7% of PHA homes are certified as accessible under all federal standards.

PHA and the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development remain in talks over this issue as well as a new Moving to Work agreement. The previous agreement ended on March 31, but both sides are hopeful a new deal will soon be worked out. Rose Bryant, resident leader at Liddonfield Homes, speaks at a Town Hall Meeting for disabled residents.

WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

Have you become a new homeowner? Started your own business? Graduated from college or a professional training program?

The PHA Experience would like to share your story with our readers. To get your story into the Experience, call Nadine Bonner at 215-684-8645 or send an email to [email protected] The forum also gave disabled residents an opportunity to give feedback on how PHA can better serve their community. www.pha.phila.gov 12

Ten public figures who might surprise PHA Self-Sufficiency Contacts Luz Paradoa you - they all lived in public housing Manager, Community Partners Program Admissions Office 712 North 16th Street Pedro Ramos 215-684-4366 (Fax #215-684-8080) Former City of Philadelphia Manager Director Monet Williams Neighborhood Network Coordinator, Computer Technology, Amnesty Program 215-684-4628 (Fax #215-684-8080) Tom Knox Barbara Stewart Businessman and Philadelphia Mayoral Candidate ESS Coordinator 215-684-4416

Gilbert Vega Jimmy Carter ESS Coordinator Former President 215-684-2057 (Fax #215-684-8080) of the United States Audrey Hickmon FSS Coordinator Fred Thompson Phone #215-684-2682 Republican Presidential candidate Team A South Philadelphia Office 1172-1174 South Broad Street Jenneane Tillar - ESS Coordinator Tracey Steele (215) 684-3051 (Fax #215-684-3066) Arkansas State Senator Zip Codes: 02, 03, 06, 07, 12, 42, 45, 46, 47, 48, 53,

Team B West Philadelphia Office 5207 Walnut Street Joel Klein Crystal Marshall - ESS Coordinator New York City (215) 684-1359 (Fax #215-684-1366) Chancellor of Schools Zip Codes: 04, 31, 39, 43, 51

Team C Northwest Germantown Office Sterling Johnson 5538-A Wayne Avenue Federal Court Judge Edwina Young - ESS Coordinator (215) 684-3065 (Fax #215-684-3055) Zip Codes: 18, 19, 26, 27, 28, 29, 38, 41, 44, 50

Team D Robert Johnson North Philadelphia Office Bronx, NY 642 N. Broad Street District Attorney Nyla Jones - ESS Coordinator (215) 684-3126 (Fax #215-684-1023) Zip Codes: 05, 06, 07, 08, 21, 22, 23, 25, 30, 33, 34, 40 Willie Brown Former Mayor of San Francisco Team E Northeast Philadelphia Office 4346 Frankford Avenue Michelle Henderson ESS Coordinator Carl Stokes (215) 684-2414 (Fax #215-684-1340) Former Mayor of Cleveland, Zip Codes: 11, 14, 15, 16, 20, 24, 35, 36, 37, 49, 52, 54 First African-American Mayor of a major city

A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 13 Boys and Girls Club Programs at PHA Sites on high note

“Another fantastic day for us to learn and the neighborhood children take a leadership role. Clean-up is and play,” is the way seven-year-old benefit, which means we are a required as a means of respecting Aisha Hawkins describes the after stronger community.” the environment. school activities she enjoys at the Boys and Girls Club program at PHA’s Chief Professional Officer for To improve family health, they Wilson Park Community Center. the Boys and Girls Clubs of arranged for Wachovia and Keystone Philadelphia, Jeff Waldron Mercy Health Plan to sponsor a Every weekday between 3 and 8 says, “we had a tremendously health and fitness day for parents p.m., more than 150 children get successful first year and exceeded and children. The event included help with their homework, learn expectations on the number of confidential health care screenings computer skills, grow butterflies children who wanted to be active and information for finding out from caterpillars, dance, cook, play with the program. The partnership what immunizations were needed. basketball and help their neighborhood with PHA is outstanding, and the by removing graffiti and picking folks I have dealt with have been Harold Reed, a counselor at Wilson up trash. In addition, there are two professional. We’re looking forward Park, notes, “This is what elementary Sharaday Simmons speaks with counselor Denise Matza about joining age groups for baseball and softball to a long future together. school children need, an opportunity the Boys and Girls Club Programs. sponsored by the Phillies. to learn different skills and have fun doing it. The evening program The program started last year when Touching body and mind is really a great component for PHA developed a partnership the teenagers because they have with the Boys & Girls Clubs to The program touches all aspects nowhere to go.” Reed adds that run the after school and evening of the children’s lives. Meals are because of funding, the program is activities at Wilson Park in South donated by the Archdiocese of limited to 150 youngsters. Philadelphia and the John F. Street Philadelphia. On occasion the kids Community Center in North have fun fixing their own snacks of If you’re thinking that this might Philadelphia. hot dogs, fried chicken, fruit salads, be a great program for you or your pancakes, tacos and cup cakes. child, you can get on the waiting PHA Executive Director Carl list for Wilson Park by calling Greene says this has been a The character is also nourished 215.684.0014, or the Street Center win-win for everyone. “We have through rules and boundaries. at 215.684.3959. been looking for the opportunity Cursing is not tolerated, and for an organization to make use of respect for others is stressed. The The Summer Program runs from “This is what elementary school children need,” says counselor Harold these great facilities. Our residents 18-year olds are encouraged to June 15 to August 15, 2008. Reed, shown here with Chasity Arroyo and Wilson Cleamons.

Hula Hoop Queen Notice to Section 8 Voucher Tenants: continued from page 1 Spearman, the program coordinator (Housing Choice Voucher Program Tenants) at the center, planned and directed Recently, PHA reached a tentative settlement with Community Legal Services, Inc. (“CLS”) in the routine quickly. Tykia credited the pageant. A theater major at class-action lawsuit Henderson v. Morrone (PHA) 79 cv 4190 (E.D.Pa.) (“the Henderson case”). Ashley Spearman, the pageant’s Temple University, she has worked This recent settlement is about CLS’s claim for attorney’s fees from PHA for CLS’s successful coordinator, for encouraging her to in professional theater. She believes defense of the 1983 Consent Decree in the Henderson case. The 1983 Consent Decree, in short, take part in the pageant. that the pageant also teaches the kids how to present themselves helps protect Section 8 Voucher tenants from being cut-off that program arbitrarily or unlawfully. An audience of about 130 parents, before an audience, as well as Because of CLS’s efforts in 2005 - 2007, the Consent Decree remains in force. family and friends turned out at helping them realize their own Section 8 Voucher tenants will not be affected by this recent settlement between PHA and CLS. PHA’s John F. Street Community potential. Tykia McWilliams, In short, if the settlement is approved by the Court, PHA will pay CLS $21,482.00 to resolve CLS’s Center to cheer the youngsters for example plans on attending outstanding attorney’s fee claim. on. Other contestants, including prestigious Central High School runner-up Kierra Stevens, with the goal of becoming a lawyer. Section 8 Voucher tenants may comment on, or object to, the tentative settlement between PHA performed monologues featuring and CLS. To insure that the Judge will consider your comments or objections, they must be either poetry or comedy. The The pageant was a financial success, presented in writing by mail, or delivered by hand, to: Clerk, U.S. District Court, Room 2609, 601 contestants also modeled evening raising $1,200 to replace equipment Market St., Philadelphia PA 19106. Written comments or objections must begin with this caption: gowns as part of the pageant. and games at the club. “Henderson v. Morrone and PHA, 79-4190”. They must be received by the Clerk by July 25, 2008, or by the 20th day after this Class Notice is published in The PHA Experience, whichever is later. The Judge has scheduled a hearing for Wednesday, August 6, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. in courtroom 3A, 601 Market St., Philadelphia PA. At the hearing, the Judge will consider any timely written comments and objections to the settlement. The Judge may also consider oral comments and objections at the hearing. For more information about the tentative settlement, or about the Henderson Consent Decree, Section 8 Voucher tenants may consult an attorney of their choice or write to the CLS attorneys: Paul A. Brooks, Esq. and Gould D. Gould, Esq., Community Legal Services, Inc. 1424 Chestnut St., Philadelphia PA 19102 You may also call for Mr. Brooks and Mr. Gould at (215-981-3700) – say that you are calling about the Henderson case.

Queen Tykia McWilliams (wearing crown) and her court at the first Hon. Michael M. Baylson, U.S. Dist. Judge PHA North Boys and Girls Club Beauty Pageant. www.pha.phila.gov 14 Summer Food Program adds food for thought to menu PHA’s popular Summer Food Bartram, Wilson Park, Spring In addition to the reading programs, Program will have food for the Garden and John F. Street. This the Keep Philadelphia Beautiful minds of young people as well is an early literacy program that program will bring its anti-litter as for their bodies this year. The works with young children and program to every Summer program begins Monday, June 23rd their parents to bring families Food site as well. “Providing at 22 PHA sites across the city and together. Participants take the information to our youth to runs through Friday, August 22nd. books home after each workshop. make them conscious about their Over 36,000 meals were provided surroundings, picking up after to low-income children throughout “The reading component will be themselves as well as others, instills the city last year. a great addition to this program. a sense of community service and We are proud to work with the responsibility,” Robinson says. Troy Robinson, PHA Community Free Library to make sure our kids Relations Asset Manager, says the continue to learn during the summer Although there are fewer sites offering agency will also offer two reading months when they are away from the Summer Food Program, no programs, courtesy of the Free school. The kids are coming in for needy children will go hungry. They Library of Philadelphia. two meals a day. We’ll feed them can go to a neighboring site to receive some knowledge while they’re a meal, or PHA will refer them to a The Free Library’s summer reading here as well,” said PHA Executive city Department of Recreation site program, “Catch the Reading Bug,” Director Carl Greene. that offers similar meals. will be available at all 22 Summer Food Program locations. “Catch Under the Summer Food Program, Robinson believes the program has the Reading Bug” is a national all eligible children ages 18 and grown in importance this year because The summer food program offers healthy, nutritious meals that reading program that combines under are able to receive free of the economic downturn and rising children enjoy. reading books about nature – breakfast and lunch. The program food prices. “It’s more important now especially bugs – with nature operates Monday — Friday from 8 that we assist our children and their projects. Children, preschool a.m. to 2 p.m. parents in learning how to make wise through 6th grade, can sign up at choices and serve nutritious meals their local Library and start a reading The Summer Food Program changed that are still affordable, as opposed to Losing Dawn Staley folder. They earn stickers and prizes dramatically three years ago with a buying fast food that’s affordable but weekly by reading Library books, switch to a very appetizing, nutritious not nutritious.” continued from page 1 have to be disciplined.” To young using other Library materials, or by lunch menu that proved very popular people today, Staley recommends participating in activities. with children. No processed meats People who want more information She lived there until she was 22 discipline, noting that a “disciplined are used, and the meals feature about participating in the program and graduated from the University person can do anything.” A second program, “Books Aloud,” vegetables and fruit. can contact PHA at 215-684-1164. of Virginia. “We had a grand time will be offered at four PHA sites: growing up,” she recalls. She enjoys meeting with the girls in the after-school programs, where “We took care of one another, we she talks with them about their cleaned up our block together. I daily lives and encourages them to Ludlow Development sells well would not sacrifice how I grew up or succeed at school. where I grew up for a suburban life.” continued from page 1 her new home, but was reassured Purdie also encourages other PHA “I think that’s important, to be by the financial help she’d receive residents to think seriously about The youngest of five children, Staley seen as someone who gives hope to “I liked the garage, liked the from PHA. “Owning a home is a big becoming homeowners, saying that credits her mom, Estelle, for instilling other people.” off-street parking,” she says. “I like investment. Not many people have the sacrifices you make are worth it. discipline in her and her siblings. the space of the walk-in closets and their first home being a brand new “Anyone can own a home,” she says. “People say the neighborhood raises She says she will be working with the washer and dryer hookups that home,” she says. “It’s just up to you!” you. Well, my mother raised us. My the president of the Dawn Staley were on the first floor.” mother kept a neat and tidy house. Foundation to bring some of those We always had the cleanest and best good programs to South Carolina, The new owners at Ludlow are looking block.” but the move happened too fast for fortunate they qualified to buy. her to organize everything. PHA’s Reyes says, “It’s no secret that But of all the things that Raymond financial institutions are struggling, Roses could provide, Staley Staley says that she made the and that has led them to set higher acknowledges, “I just needed a decision to go to South Carolina standards for credit scores, making basketball court.” After starring at for both personal and professional it harder for people to get mortgages. Dobbins High School, Staley went reasons. Her mom had a stroke, This is keeping some potential on to play for the University of and Staley felt she could not buyers out.” Reyes says some PHA Virginia, where she was named a accommodate her needs on a daily clients working toward owning their Kodak All-American three times, basis. When her mom moves to own home will need longer to work played in four NCAA tournaments South Caroline, Staley can rely on up to the point where they will be and still holds the NCAA record her brother in Columbia and her eligible to buy. for steals with 454. sister in Raleigh (North Carolina) for help. Families interested in buying an “My motivation was just to be the affordable home in Ludlow haven’t best I could be,” Staley says. “Once “Professionally I feel good about it,” totally missed out. PHA’s partner, I figured out that basketball was she says, “It is a bigger conference, APM, has begun building 53 more going to be my vehicle to a college and I’ll be challenged on a daily homes for sale. These homes, costing scholarship, that’s when I really basis. It is a question of competing about the same price as the PHA honed in one it, perfecting it.” and playing at a higher level.” units, will be available at about this time next year. She points out that, “A sport But her Philly connection will Lashawn Purdie inspects her newly bought three-bedroom home affects other aspects of your life. continue, and perhaps someday we As for Lashawn Purdie, she says before moving in at PHA’s Ludlow Homes. Almost all 50 homes at the You have to go to school, and you can borrow her back. she was a little scared at the price of site have now been purchased

A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 15 HCV resident proves it’s never too late for education Anodja Creighton is working degree from LaSalle University. but no hope and a bleak future are chosen for those jobs, which her way to the mountaintop and But it was a long road to travel. seemed to lie ahead. reward them with 9 paid credits what a journey it has been, taking (a scholarship equal to almost courage, faith, determination and Creighton, 43, dropped out of Anodja decided to start changing $1,100) and a $75 stipend each hard work. school at age 14 and, in her own her life in 1985, by enrolling at semester. With a 3.24 grade point words, was “raised with drugs” Philadelphia School of Office average and her activities, she The recent Community College by an “uncle who was part of Technology. She graduated two received the Dean’s Leadership of Philadelphia graduate is on her the black mafia.” By the time she years later from a clerical office Award this year. way towards a Criminal Justice turned 18 she had a daughter, assistant program, but she still had no GED. “Anodja has set herself apart as being very articulate, very Attorney, Lawrence Elliot Hirsch, enthusiastic and very committed hired her as his administrative to getting information to new assistant. While working for him, and continuing students,” Anodja continued her struggle to Thompson-Weaver said. “She’s get that GED. The math was a killer also a member of Phi Beta Kappa, for her, but finally, in 1996, she the international honor society.” passed the test and got her diploma. Thompson-Weaver believes that Ten years later, after working for Anojda is “a woman who has several social service agencies for learned to make the most out children, Creighton decided to go of every minute,” always has a Anodja Creighton to college, get a degree and become positive attitude, and reassures a juvenile probation officer. In May, everyone that they can achieve they can begin to trust. Maybe she graduated from Community their goals, whatever they are.” that can be the beginning to College of Philadelphia with rehabilitate them from a life of honors and an Associates Degree in Anodja chose to study Criminal Proud CCP Graduates - Five PHA residents graduated from Community crime, from a life of drugs, from Applied Science. Justice at LaSalle, where she is College of Philadelphia’s Administrative Assistant Job Readiness Program a life without education.” also receiving a scholarship, so in May. Here are the graduates with their PHA counselor: (First row, left to Jenavia Thompson-Weaver, she could help others. right) Towanda Kent, Jessica Crawford, Michele Claybrook-Lucas of CCP, When she graduates from Assistant Director of Student Kimberely Jones, and Serita Bennet. (Second row) PHA Self-Sufficiency LaSalle, Anodja also plans to Life at Community College of “Our youth are suffering,” she Counselors Nyla Jones, Michele Henderson, Marlena Smith, Jenneane “graduate” from the Housing Philadelphia, said Creighton says. “I have a bond with the Tillar and resident Jason Goode. The program includes life skills, customer Choice Voucher program. She’ll distinguished herself as a student young people of today. I build a service, computer use, filing, and workplace manners. be at the top of the mountain ambassador. Only 25 students relationship with them in which with no need to look back.