Issue 19 January 2009 Nellie Reynolds Garden - movin’ on up “I feel like a member of the TV show The building is the first of its kind for ‘The Jeffersons.’ I’m moving on up!” PHA, not only because of its architecture, That’s how Yvonne Williams, one of the but also for its environmental features, first new residents at Nellie Reynolds most notably a “green” roof. The roof Gardens, described how she feels about is carpeted by hundreds of plants that her new home and PHA’s newest seniors absorb rainfall and prevent water from apartment building. running off into the sewer system. The plants also insulate the building, keeping The building, named in honor of PHA’s warm air inside in winter and out in long-time resident leader, features 64 summer. That means energy savings apartments, and an Adult Daily Living year-round. The carpeting in the building, Center, scheduled to open in the early as well as the paints and primers used, part of this year. NRG will eventually are all eco-friendly, meaning they give contain an assisted living facility once off less indoor air pollution. PHA gets needed licensing from the state. PHA Executive Director Carl Greene Another new resident, Earline Pankey, hosted the grand opening, saying calls her new home “a dream of mine that completion of the building sends come true.” Like Williams, Pankey PHA Commissioner Nellie Reynolds is joined by HUD Secretary Steve Preston two strong messages. “This facility moved from Johnson Homes, right (left), PHA Executive Director Carl Greene, and Holly Glauser-Abel of the PA ­exemplifies PHA’s commitment to across the street. “I like it, I like it, I Housing Finance agency at the ribbon cutting for the new senior development. help our senior residents live with the Pride in Obama like it,” she said, as she and hundreds kind of dignity they’ve earned. It also Page 05 of other guests sat under the sparkling “The grand opening was beautiful but liked where I lived at Johnson Homes, underscores how seriously we take glass atrium for November’s grand what makes the environment great but this is exceptional,” Pankey said. opening ceremonies. are your neighbors and the serenity. I continued on page 14 Resident leaders cheer Katrina survivors celebrate Holiday Photos new MTW agreement Christmas in new home Pages 08 & 09 Resident leaders saw reason to cheer For Richard Washington, his wife, on October 16 when PHA and HUD ­Annie, and their kids, the 2008 holiday reached agreement on a new ten-year season was very special. They became Moving to Work Plan. ­homeowners again, three years after arriving in Philadelphia in the wake of The signing of the agreement ended a Hurricane Katrina. battle that lasted almost two years, sparked a lawsuit by PHA against its parent Katrina destroyed their home in New agency and prompted the resignation of Orleans’ 7th ward. The city bulldozed it Yes to Opportunity HUD secretary Alphonso Jackson. and other homes in the neighborhood. Page 11

“I was extremely happy that [PHA Richard Washington remembers the ­Executive Director] Carl Greene and day Katrina hit the city. his staff and TSSI stood up to HUD,” INDEX said Rose Bryant, resident leader at “When I woke up at one o’clock in the ­Liddonfield Homes. morning, I was stepping in water,” he Digital TV ...... 03 said. “I walked in water chest high, and “We will not lose the programs that my daughter was on my shoulders and they fought so much to get to help the Rose Bryant, resident leader at I had my two step-kids (in tow). And I “By the help of the Good Lord we Executive Director ­residents become more self-sufficient.” ­Liddonfield Homes. had a four by four walking through the made it,” says Richard Washington, Message ...... 05 now the proud owner of a home in Choice Voucher funds to create new water so nobody would fall; they had West Philadelphia. Moving to Work allows PHA to break public housing or to provide job training something to hold on to.” Resident is a poet. . 07 away from one-size-fits-all public housing for clients, something not permitted under rules from Washington to create programs standard public housing procedures. The Washington family ended up what we we’re going to eat,” he said. that work best for Philadelphia. For in ­Jefferson Parish, sleeping on the New Year’s example, PHA is able to use Housing continued on page 15 ­sidewalk for six days. “We didn’t know continued on page 14 resolutions...... 11 A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 3

Digital TV is finally coming in February – be ready to convert! Mark February 17, 2009 on you can buy a converter box that will Get more channels enable you to see digital programs on your calendar! your old TV. These boxes are available at Digital, explains Kravetz, is a more stores like Wal Mart and Target – almost ­efficient way to broadcast. Using the At the stroke of midnight on that day, any store that also sells televisions. same channel space, stations can your analog television set will not self- broadcast on five stations instead destruct, but it will stop bringing you of one. Once the converter box is your favorite programs and start bringing Get your coupons here! installed, viewers will find they have you static. Unless channels they didn’t have before. For you prepare now. Until March 31, example, in addition to Channel 10, you can receive $ there may be 10.2 and 10.3, broadcasting The U.S. DIGITAL DATA a 40 coupon different types of programs, such as ­government is To receive your $40 coupon to from the U.S. weather programs or vintage television ­requiring all ­government to shows. The picture will also be sharper major television buy a converter box: buy a converter Dave Dombrowski of the FCC demonstrates the proper way to hook up a digital converter at a DTV event at Germantown House. than the old analog one, but it will not stations to begin box. A household be a high definition picture unless you Call 1-888-388-2009 can receive up broadcasting about the upcoming digital rollout, is printed on the coupon, which purchase a High Definition TV. to two coupons. digital rather than Order online at: points out: “if you call, you will get a looks like a credit card. Coupons can be analog signals ­confirmation number that will enable The converter box is simple to install, www.dtv2009.gov ordered from effective Feb. 17. you to track the coupon.” Online, you Converters run between $39 and $70, says Krazvetz.. It attaches to both the www.dtv2009.gov, a Which means will receive a receipt. says Kravetz, and she admits she TV and the antenna. People may need For more information: web site created by that unless you doesn’t see any difference between to purchase a better pair of rabbit ears the FCC to guide have cable or Go to www.dvt2009.gov The coupons take three to six weeks the cheaper and more expensive to get a better picture, says Kravetz, people through satellite TV or have to arrive, so it is smart to apply models. She recommends that but any television, no matter how old, Call 1-888-225-5322 this transition. purchased a digital now. They have a 90-day expiration whichever converter you buy should can be converted. TV in the past Or you can call Note: Check your television’s owner’s date – and they start ticking from feature “analog pass through” so you four years, your ­1-888-388-2009. Since all new televisions are now manual. If you purchased your set within the time they’re mailed. Once you can still capture any analog signals TV will not work receive the coupon, don’t wait too sent by small stations like Channel ­digital, eventually the converters will the last four years, it probably has a Lauren Kravetz, an without a digital long to make your purchase – you 65. These stations are not required be as obsolete as analog TVs, Kravetz ­digital tuner and requires no conversion. FCC ­representative converter box. can’t get another one or renew an to go digital, although Kravetz adds points out. So the prices will not go who educates expired coupon. The expiration date that many will. down if you wait to purchase them. For less than $70, ­consumers Pre-Apprenticeship program to celebrate 10th anniversary What a difference a decade makes! Unlike previous PHA efforts to “Once we started placing people in “The training center you see today “Eighty percent of our clients have train residents for the construction the trades, residents began asking reflects the evolution of PHA,” gone on to be successful,” Johnson said. Ten years ago, Carl Greene had a vision industry, the Pre-Apprenticeship about other unions as they entered Greene said. “We have evolved into a “The program takes people from zero for PHA residents: a program that program ­benefited from an­agreement the Pre-Apprenticeship program,” company dependent on technology. income to middle class income.” would give them the opportunity to between the agency and four trade Johnson said. “It gave us the We train students for 21st century have careers in the building trades. unions – electricians, painters, ­glaziers, ­opportunity to explore other areas. jobs in a 21st century facility. That’s For Greene, the Pre-Apprenticeship ­carpenters and plumbers – that brought The residents are the foundation of the way it has to be for PHA and Program is the agency’s jewel. The Pre-Apprenticeship Program union ­instructors to the training site. the success of the program.” these graduates to compete.” began in February 1999 in four small “I am most proud of the women and rooms at what was then known as “The biggest challenge in getting this The program has expanded beyond Women have been a part of the program men who have taken advantage of Tasker Homes. The rooms were program off the ground was the need to construction. PHA graduates have from the outset. Of the 552 graduates, the opportunity the program offers ­supposed to be converted into a build credibility with the trade unions,” found work at Boeing Helicopter, Aker Johnson said, 250 are women. In some to work hard and lift themselves to Laundromat for residents, but resident Greene said. “We were telling the union Shipyard, Gamesa Windmill, PECO, classes, women outnumbered men. middle class careers,” Greene said. leader Asia Coney shared Greene’s leaders that this program would produce PGW, and Green Energy Initiatives. A number of women have achieved “I am also proud of the reputation vision and agreed that the space should men and women with ­apprentice-level ­journeywoman status as carpenters, the program has earned for sending be used for the new program. skills and an ­understanding of work sheet metal workers, and electricians. ­quality workers into the labor force.” responsibilities. We began the program A heavy investment with only a couple unions on board, but once the first graduates were PHA invested heavily in the program. ­successful, more unions signed on, and The agency opened a spacious, new now we have them all.” training center at Greater Grays Ferry Estates to house it in September 2004.

Union partners create The Work Force Development Center (as it’s formally known) has every ­opportunities bell and whistle imaginable. The new ­facility expanded the scope of George Johnson, the program ­director, ­hands-on training with, for example, says eight other locals signed on as better power equipment for ­carpentry time passed. He says the program training and a computer lab for is currently negotiating with the ­instruction. More recently, programs in ­bricklayers and pipefitters’ unions. welding, environmental safety, building Having more unions as partners creates maintenance and repair, and commercial more opportunities. driving were added. So was a video The Pre-Apprenticeship program started Student carpenters have plenty of space to learn their craft in the new Work library on construction techniques. in these cramped rooms in Tasker Homes. Force Development Center. www.pha.phila.gov A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 5

PHA residents express real pride Residents learn how to in election of Barak Obama trim utility bills The upcoming inauguration of Barak Negative thoughts about Cassandra Houston has seen the light. “They give you enough light in every Obama as the 44th President of the She was among 71 residents who area of your home,” she said. Houston United States will mark a historic race pushed aside ­attended a PHA Energy Conservation noticed about a $40 difference in her moment that is personally touching Fairs held in November at the John F. bill after installing the new bulbs. the lives of many PHA residents. When Jacqueline was growing up, she Street Community Center. saw a lot of racism, “in the schools Cassandra said it has taken her more Although most residents will not they would find a reason to hold you The fairs are part of an ongoing effort than a year to pay off gas bills to PGW be able to atttend the inauguration, back. At work it’s much the same. You by the agency to help residents become that she ran up at a previous residence. they have strong opinions about don’t get what you should and when more energy efficient and save money, The state’s energy assistance program Obama and his place in history. you complain you are given a title for themselves and PHA. (LIHEAP) and PGW’s Customer that you’re a bad person. It will take ­Responsibility Program (CRP) helped Sadie Harvey, 76, was almost time, but old negative thoughts about Houston, the mother of two, was her climb out of the hole. brought to tears when she heard Jacqueline Lofton race will slowly be pushed aside ­pleasantly surprised that PECO and that Obama would become because of Obama.” PGW would help residents learn Residents were able to sign up for ­President of the United States. how to read and better understand those programs and PECO’s CAP Rate “Unless you are Black, you have no their bills. Houston said charges from program at the fair. “I was born in North Carolina, idea what it means to see an African both ­companies were putting her in a a place where we couldn’t eat at American elected President” says ­financial hole. “Saving energy is more important Woolworth’s, or go to the bus ­station ­76-year old Walter Nicholson. “So than ever, as utility costs spiral and with whites. Obama being African much discrimination and hatred One of the first things Cassandra did after we ­operate with reduced funding,” American and coming from a humble has existed against us over the the fair was to install compact fluorescent said Carolyn Carter, PHA’s Assistant background seems to understand ­centuries. Even today we are viewed light bulbs (CFL’s) throughout her ­Executive Director for Operations. what blacks, the middle class and as incompetent - portrayed as ­six-bedroom Philadelphia home. “In addition, we are preparing for the poor people are going through.” second-class citizens in magazines, in end of rate caps in 2010, which will the newspaper, in the movies and on dramatically increase utility costs.” On January 20th, President-elect television. In that voting booth I had Sadie Harvey Obama will become the first ­African to stand there for a minute and enjoy Shirley Cesar of Southwest ­Philadelphia American to hold this office. Most of the reality that America only now said she came to the fair to deal the residents at Holmecrest Homes realizes the leadership, ­intelligence with her ballooning gas bills, which in the Northeast think Obama is the and power of our people.” ­sometimes reached $500 a month. My right person at the right time. gas bill was so big I couldn’t afford it,” Walter enjoys living with other she said. “I was doing my best with it, “Pushing that leaver was a push seniors, both black and white, at but it was too much for me.” for the future” says 72-year-old Holmecrest Homes. “We discuss many ­Jacqueline Lofton. She thought she things and are not often on the same Cesar learned how to use plastic bags would never live to see this nation page. One thing we agree on is that at the foot of her doors to keep the cold elect an African ­American president. President-elect Obama gives us, our air out. She said it’s too early to notice “This moment in history would have children and grandchildren pride and changes in her bill, but she’s ­anticipating made my ­grandparents so proud. To hope for the future, a future even the “Saving energy is more important some savings. For Cesar and other see a ­competent, ­intelligent person rest of the world sees as a chance for than ever,” Carolyn Carter told PHA ­residents like her, that’s money in the Walter Nicholson of color ­President.” America to save itself.” residents at November’s Energy Fair. bank they can use for other things.

The start of a new year is always The point that I want to ­emphasize bills - gas, electric and water. For as large a staff as we did just two a time to look ahead with hope, is that no one, not even a ­president its part, PHA has made physical years ago. We depend on ­residents and for PHA and its customers for whom most have high changes in our ­properties such as more than ever to keep PHA there is good reason for optimism. ­expectations, can make enormous using only compact ­fluorescent light ­neighborhoods strong. We have a new changes without bulbs and toilets that use less water. ­president coming our help. If we But we can’t change people’s habits. I wish you all the best in 2009. into ­office, and all “One very want to maintain It’s up to you to turn the lights off signs ­indicate he and increase the when you leave a room or turn the Thank you, has the ­intellect ­important area ­availability of thermostat down before you leave and ­energy to take quality affordable the house. You will hear more about on the nation’s where we can housing, we have our conservation efforts in the daunting problems. to contribute by months to come. Barack Obama’s all play a role ­acting responsibly. record and his is in energy Another area where we can statements ­indicate One very ­important do ­better is in the care of our Carl R. Greene he understands the area where we ­properties. If you see a neighbor affordable ­housing ­conservation.” can all play a damaging property or throwing crisis that our role is in ­energy trash on the ground, let them know ­nation faces and that he intends to ­conservation. A tremendous ­portion that’s not the way we want to treat aggressively address the issue. of PHA’s budget is devoted to utility our communities. PHA doesn’t have

www.pha.phila.gov 6

What is your New Year’s resolution?

Anthony Bradshaw – Abbottsford Homes “Lose at least 100 pounds.”

Beneather Ealy – Abbottsford Homes “To work at seeing my daughter soon. We have been apart too long. It is time we work at being a family.”

Norreen Jones – Abbottsford Homes “Our community, all communities need help. Society has lost its way. I want to help bring it back together.”

Valarie Matthews – Abbottsford Homes “For the upcoming year I want to change my ­environment. The goal is to place myself in a position to make my life and that of my family better.”

Tamie Miller – Abbottsford Homes “My goal is to make it to another year. I need to keep my health and finances in check. Need to cut back on my heating bill to save energy.”

Pedro Rodriquez – Abbottsford Homes “Save money by cutting back on electricity, heat and driving less.”

Tania Rogers – Abbottsford Homes “To help make my ­environment a better place. Hopefully the new president will inspire a new attitude.”

A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 7

Voucher resident publishes poetry collection Landlord 2006 was not a great year for 11, and she says they were her first ­Rosetta Cousin. inspiration. She wrote a poem one enjoys “people night at her kitchen table and shortly “I was wore out from my job, I was after saw an online poetry contest. She robbed waiting for the bus, and I was entered the poem and was surprised business” having problems with someone at to get a positive response. Earle Greer says he’s been my job,” Rosetta, a Housing Choice Voucher recipient, “They liked my ­interested in real estate for as recalls. poem. And ever long as he can remember, but his path into the industry and LOVE ME since then, I’ve Most people started writing the Housing Choice Voucher would just whine poetry.” She says program might surprise you. or complain, but You say you love me that writing the Rosetta took her poems helps her But I find it hard to believe After receiving a bachelor’s pain and began manage her life. degree in economics from East writing poetry. On Yeah you love me alright ­Stroudsburg University, Earle January 3, her first “I’m a quiet shy, worked as a salesman for the Coca book of poems, Got me swinging in the trees person. My poetry Cola Bottling Company for 20 I Cry, You Cry, Then maybe way down deep is like my best was published by friend. I can just years. During that period, he ­began Rosetta Cousin turns tears into poems. Publish America. You really love me write whatever is buying properties and finally The book contains one my mind.” ­decided to become his own boss Or company that didn’t charge you a fee.” ­offered her packages she could buy to about 50 of Rosetta’s publish her poems. Publish America, and go into real estate full time. poems – only a You’re just trying to please me Last year, she Rosetta went online to Publish America’s however, did not charge her a fee. small portion of took a class in site and submitted her poems. Greer, who owns and ­operates the poetry she has From I Cry, You Cry, published with medical billing “Once your book starts selling, they Spring Valley Real Estate been collecting permission of the author. through one of “They said it was good, and I went get a percentage,” she notes. She has ­Development, says his company in a large book at PHA’s ­community into a contract with them. We enough poems in her big book at manages 65 properties in the home. ­partners, ­designed the cover of my book, and home to publish a second volume, but city and leases to a mix of PHA ­Professional I’m working with them now trying to she says the publisher suggested that residents and private residents. “They are sad,” she admits. “They talk Healthcare Institute. get my book into bookstores.” she wait a few months. about my life, my relationships with He has taken part in the HCV program since the mid-1990’s. men. I overcame a lot of stuff.” “There was a girl in my glass who told me After submitting her poetry online, I Cry, You Cry can be ordered about an older lady who wrote poems. Rosetta says that she was approached from the publisher’s web site, “The business has its ups and Rosetta has five children, ages six to She told me about this publishing by several other publishers who ­­www.­publishamerica.com. downs, but I enjoy it. It’s a people business,” he says. “The most ­challenging part is trying to keep Voucher helps former sailor find her land legs as many people happy as possible.” Greer, 46, says two things Rashida Childs thought she’d “join told she was going to sea in 15 days, ­attracted him to PHA’s ­Housing the Navy and see the world.” Instead, and she could not have a child on a ship. she spent most of four years on a Choice Voucher program: ship parked off the Iraqi shore. After For the next four years, she was only residents who are responsible in her discharge, she reunited with her able to see her daughter on leaves and meeting their obligations and daughter and, with help from the VA, holidays. Her mother cared for the the agency’s timely payments of began attending college fulltime. But child, now 7 years old. rent each month. the single mom could not afford to rent an apartment – until she learned “I’ve been through a lot,” Rashida “I encourage people (other about PHA’s new program with the said. She described ship life as “a big ­landlords) to get involved,” he says. VA to provide vouchers for 105 high school.” There was no privacy. “With the HCV program, you get homeless vets in Philadelphia. “You are with your shipmates 24/7. the bulk of your rent on time. I There was no individuality – you’re a find that residents involved with “This voucher is wonderful,” said sailor and that is what you are.” Rashida, who received the voucher the program for the most part with five other vets at a special Rashida also opposes the war; an handle their responsibilities. Most ­ceremony on Veterans Day. “I tried to unpopular opinion if you are ­serving people want to keep their voucher.” find housing on my own, but it wasn’t in the military. She suffered from Greer believes the agency’s possible. I’m not working because I’m Rashida Childs, shown with Carl Greene, received her Housing Choice ­depression while at sea, which trying to stick to school right now.” Voucher at a ceremony on Veterans Day. hindered her advancement. Her final inspection process is helpful, rank was petty officer. saying it keeps his properties in “This is a blessing. PHA is there to its own ethnic hair salons. I’d like to Now I have a voice,” she said. good, working condition, while help you get on your feet. But it is not have one place that services everyone. Now, voucher in hand, she is ­looking improving their value. For him, someplace to stay forever,” she added. I’d like to offer spa services and have But from the outset, it was not what for an apartment for herself and it’s another benefit for his business her two daughters. She now has a a restaurant to serve healthy food,” she expected. The recruiter, also as well as PHA residents. Rashida is studying business she said. a single mom, told Rashida that ­five-month old baby. ­administration at the University of after she finished her basic ­training, Phoenix in Center City. Her dream is to At 17, Rashida saw enlisting in the she could have her three-year “I’ve been through a lot, but this is You can contact Greer open a multi-ethnic hair salon and spa. Navy as a way to advance herself, old ­daughter with her at her first a new beginning. You can overcome at: ­215-868-0481. and, in some ways, it did. “When I ­location. But when she arrived at these difficulties, and it makes you “You know, every neighborhood has went in, I was timid, shy and quiet. Norfolk, Va. after training, she was stronger as a person.” www.pha.phila.gov 8 We captured the holiday The holidays are gone but not forgotten. We captured many of

Dancing at the annual TSSI Holiday Party.

Commissioner Nellie Reynolds enjoying the TSSI Holiday Party.

PHA’s Carolyn Carter (far left) and TSSI’s Asia Coney (far right)

join Toys for Tots sponsors, Nellie Reynolds and Santa. Tree lighting at Holmecrest Homes.

A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 9 spirit at PHA developments! PHA’s fun-filled events in photos. How many do you remember?

Enjoying a great party dinner. The holiday party raised money so that children, like this It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without dinner at Nellie’s. one on Santa’s lap, could receive toys for Christmas.

Tree lighting at Suffolk Manor.

TSSI sponsored their annual turkey giveaway.

www.pha.phila.gov A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 11

PHA resident Juwanne Polite says YES to opportunity Juwanna Polite dropped out of the Philadelphia Youth Network. The about a mural she worked on at Strawberry Mansion High School last agency helps students get their GED ­Hartranft School in North­Philadelphia. February. She was in the 11th grade and develop job and social skills. and very unhappy. YES gets dropouts back on track by “When I first came here (to YES), I was teaching subjects that are meaningful really irritated and had a bad attitude “The environment wasn’t for me. to teens, such as music recording and problem,” she says. “I changed that. In There were too many people in the computer programs like Photoshop. the classes, I’m learning how to draw.” classes. I couldn’t focus,” she says. “There was too much commotion. “It’s building on that capacity that Juwanna, who’s now 18, adds she Safety was an issue.” they have and the has received more than just an interest that they ­education at YES. But while one “I’ve learned how to focus have, so that they door was closing, more in classes, and to get have a ­satisfying, “I’ve learned how to control my anger, another was about ­creative, how to focus more in classes, and to to open. Juwanna’s along with new people.” ­growthful get along with new people,” she says. mother learned ­experience,” says about Youth Juwanne Polite educator Taylor Frome says the program gives students ­Environment Frome, founder of emotional as well as physical safety. Juwanne Polite is developing her artistic talent and earning her GED at ­Services (YES), a program that reaches the YES program. She says emotional abuse that kids the YES program. out to school dropouts with unique face is often the greatest obstacle to Juwanna thinks she’ll get her GED by For more information on the YES programs and subject matter. Through YES, Juwanna, who lives at their success. The YES program builds next summer. From there, she’d like to program, contact Keith Donaldson at Johnson Homes with her ­family, has on interests and skills that students become a Licensed Practical Nurse or 215-769-0340 ext. 235. The program is YES is funded by the city’s developed her artistic talent. She has ­already possess while helping to study for a real estate license. located at 1231 N. Broad Street. ­Department of Human Services and worked on canvas and talks ­excitedly restore their self-esteem.

Skills for Life helps teens reach academic potential Help Sherry

Najah Harris, a freshman at the Arts finance on a trip to Harrisburg to When Jamal’s grades started to slip, Academy at Benjamin Rush, has participate in a protest. he says, “Skills for Life taught me a get her dream always had high hopes for her future. lot of things about how to get them Those hopes have been boosted by Najah praises counselor Ariel Arnau, back up.” her involvement saying, “he helps a with PHA’s Skills lot…we’re reading “Right now we’re working on for Life program “It’s changed my short stories and ­reading a novel” Jamal explains, at the Lighthouse direction in life.” he taught me how “we apply it to real life situations Youth Services to do citations.” and write a book report about it. site. “My older Jamal Byrd Writing and We do a lot of projects and we take sister was a part of literature have trips too.” it and she told me been a core part about it,” Najah explains. of the program for Najah. “Last year For students like Jamal, Skills for we worked on a magazine, and we’re Life is a community of support. A budding theatre major, Najah has continuing it this year. We presented ­Jamal says, “We talk about things, benefited from the educational field our magazine at the convention center Jamal Byrd and anything we need help with. trips. “They take us to places like and won second place.” They’re there for us.” has ten sites where trained counselors Temple University—I found out that offer students tutoring, workshops, they have a good theatre department.” The Skills for Life program ­encourages and practical advice for continued She learned about the relationship students to reach their potential at success after graduation. Students between immigrants and government one of the most critical periods of receive a stipend and a SEPTA Transpass ­development. Students enter the to attend the program every day after program at the age of 14, improving Prison Runs school. Daily attendance is required, and developing their skills throughout If you need to visit a loved which gives some students pause. WHAT’S YOUR STORY? their high school years. Skills for Life one in prison, please contact Jamal Byrd, remembers being hesitant to J&H Transport, LLC. Have you become a new start Skills for Life, but now he admits, ­homeowner? Started your own “as time moved on it really started to Traveling to 25 State Housing Choice Voucher business? Graduated from col- help me out and I started to like it.” correctional institutions ­resident Sherry Tucker lege or a professional training For Reservations still needs your support to program? Jamal started the program as a please call ­compete in the reality show ­sophomore at Paul Robeson High “Hustle for Your Dreams.” School for Human Services. Over a (215) 989-9436 The PHA Experience would like Sherry is ­competing for $1 year later, Jamal says, “it’s changed my to share your story with our million in prize money on readers. To get your story into direction in life, I’ve met new friends, and my grades have improved.” Now a the show, ­expected to air the Experience, call ­Nadine junior, Jamal’s goals were inspired by in ­November. Sign on as a Bonner at 215-684-8645 or send a Skills for Life guest speaker. “When friend to her MySpace page at an email to nadine.bonner@pha. I graduate high school I plan on going ­HFYDPA90758 and give her phila.gov to college and taking up a career in more status on the show. Najah Harris law or business,” he says. www.pha.phila.gov 12

Ten musicians and singers who PHA Self-Sufficiency Contacts lived in public housing Luz Paradoa Manager, Community Partners Program Admissions Office 712 North 16th Street Luther Vandross 215.684.4366 Alfred E. Smith housing, New York, NY Jerel Brooks Computer Technology Coordinator 215.684.8114

Barbara Stewart George Harrison ESS Coordinator Liverpool, England 215.684.4416

Gilbert Vega Marvin Gaye ESS Coordinator Washington, DC 215.684.2057

Audrey Hickmon FSS Coordinator 215.684.2682 Elvis Presley Team A Memphis, TN South Philadelphia Office 1172-1174 South Broad Street Jenneane Tillar - ESS Coordinator Thelonius Monk 215.684.3051 (Fax 215.684.3066) Amsterdam Houses, Zip Codes: 02, 03, 06, 07, 12, 42, 45, 46, 47, 48, 53, New York, NY Team B West Philadelphia Office 5207 Walnut Street Lady Sovereign Crystal Marshall - ESS Coordinator Chalkhill Estates, 215.684.1359 (Fax 215.684.1366) London, England Zip Codes: 04, 31, 39, 43, 51

Team C Northwest Germantown Office Jaheim Hoagland 5538-A Wayne Avenue Memorial Parkway Homes, Edwina Young - ESS Coordinator New Brunswick, NJ 215.684.3065 (Fax 215.684.3055) Zip Codes: 18, 19, 26, 27, 28, 29, 38, 41, 44, 50

Team D Bootsy Barnes North Philadelphia Office Richard Allen 642 N. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 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 Frankie Valli Team E Stephen Crane Village, Newark, NJ Northeast Philadelphia Office 4346 Frankford Avenue Michele J. Henderson ESS Coordinator Flo Ballard 215.684.2414 (Fax 215.684.1340) Brewster-Douglas Housing, Zip Codes: 11, 14, 15, 16, 20, 24, 35, 36, 37, 49, 52, 54 Detroit, MI

A Community Newspaper For And About Residents 13

Vacancy reduction program gets boost from Pre-Apprenticeship grads PHA properties are in demand. To make Contemplating a bright future, Katrina Garfield when she comes to homes ready for move-in faster, the ­Freedman said, “My number one goal do repairs. Graduating from PHA’s Vacancy Reduction Program was started is getting into real estate—I’m going to Pre-Apprenticeship Program in to complete repairs and inspections on take what they’ve given me and use it.” 2004, Garfield is now a fourth year empty apartments. Graduates of PHA’s ­carpentry apprentice working at PHA’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program have Gary James, a 2003 graduate, took senior buildings. been drafted to work on the vacant advantage of his chance to make a ­properties, which ­difference. “I “Mainly I look forward to helping is a win-win for chose carpentry the elderly,” Garfield noted. “I used the students and The Pre-­Apprenticeship thinking that to hear about contractors that scam the agency. program, “gives you when I buy my people…and it really burned me up. own house I want I wanted to make a difference.” And The Pre-Appren- ­experience, higher to know how to that’s exactly what she does. ticeship Program­ fix it up from head has helped Douglas ­expectations, and teaches to toe,” James Previously employed as a financial Doug Freedman repairs kitchen cabinets in PHA’s Queen Lane apartments. ­Freedman advance you so much.” Gary James recalls. counselor, Garfield found her true in a career he calling through the Pre-Apprenticeship enjoys, and in James is now program. “I like to start from scratch return, he helps rehab properties for employed at a PHA vacancy ­reduction and build something new,” she said. PHA residents. “I love working with site. The ­Pre-Apprenticeship ­program, “Seeing the finished product is a great my hands and being able to keep “gives you experience, higher accomplishment.” ­moving,” Freedman said. ­expectations, and teaches you so much,” said James. Thanks to PHA’s Pre-Apprenticeship Six years ago, Freedman was sitting program, Garfield said, “I’ve been able at a tenant meeting with his Mom At work, James says, “we do ­whatever to increase my income, pick up more when “they started talking about we have to do to get the unit up and skills, and work on my own house this apprenticeship program, and it running again and get people to move without hiring someone else.” woke me right up,” he recalls. “I was in.” His ambitions for the future are, “to actually unemployed at the time. This learn everything I can about carpentry, As for the future, “I see myself ­owning my was right up my alley.” Freedman and eventually get my own company.” own business, union bound of course,” ­graduated from the program and Garfield adds, “I love helping other joined the Carpenters Union in 2002. PHA residents are happy to see people who started out just like me.” Gary James renovates a bathroom in a PHA property on 59th St.

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Pick the Specter building contest Katrina Survivors in Philly Winner will meet the Senator ­building after him. And we’re continued from page 1 house. It sharpened my skills on saving.” asking you to help us chose which As Pennsylvania’s senator for almost building. Tell us in 50 words or Annie says homeownership ­training 30 years, Arlen Specter has been less which PHA building you think One hurricane was enough taught her how to save and plan. The a good friend to public housing. should be named after Senator Specter couple is building up a reserve to Most recently he, along with junior and why. The winner will shake Fast forward to Thanksgiving 2008 – the cover any emergencies that may arise ­colleague Bob Casey, worked tirelessly hands with the Senator personally Washingtons closed on the classic West at their new home. to help PHA and HUD resolve their at the building’s dedication. Philly rowhome they had been renting differences so PHA could remain in with their Housing Choice Voucher The Washingtons are busy with home the Moving to Work program. Mail entries to Caitlin Garrity, 12 since arriving in Philadelphia. They improvements. Richard is putting down S. 23rd St, 6th floor, ­Philadelphia, had completed PHA’s ­Homeownership a new hardwood floor in the ­living Now PHA would like to honor PA 19103 or send an email to: Program, which enables residents to room and dining room. He plans to ­Senator Specter by naming a ­caitlin.­[email protected]. Senator Arlen Specter use their voucher toward mortgage take down a wall to expand the size of ­payments for up to 15 years. the kitchen, repaint it, and install new floor tiling. Eventually, the­Washingtons Annie Washington said one hurricane want to finish their­basement and make was enough for her. She’s originally it into a family room. from Philadelphia, as is Richard, and they plan to stay in their new home Annie says the investment in time for a long time. and money that she and her husband make will be worth it. And yes, she’d “We’ve just been blessed,” Annie said. encourage other Housing Choice “Through the experience with PHA recipients to take advantage of the and the process they took us through, I homeownership program, work hard learned even more than about buying a and change their lives, too.

Hurricane Katrina destroyed the Washington’s old neighborhood in New Orleans. Nellie Reynolds Garden continued from page 1 Pratt building at Greater Grays Ferry Estates.) our role as custodians of the ­environment,” Greene said. The building’s name is a natural.­Nellie Reynolds managed a community Others on hand to pay tribute to ­garden on the land for many years. both the building and the woman When PHA decided to build the new for whom it is named included City facility on the site, the agency named Council members Darrell Clarke and the building as a tribute to ­Reynolds’ 40 Jannie Blackwell, years of leadership District Attorney in the ­movement Lynne Abraham, for public former mayor ­housing ­residents’ John Street and rights and keynote speaker ­responsibilities. Steve Preston, ­secretary of the Earline Pankey U.S. ­Department said the day of Housing belonged to Ms. and Urban Reynolds. “This ­Development. building is a Earline Pankey good tribute to Nellie Reynolds Nellie Reynolds Gardens becomes the third PHA because everything she has tried to do, senior building to offer both public she has done. And she always thinks housing and enhanced services in about the seniors; the senior citizens the same building. (The other two are ­important to her and that’s what are ­Germantown House and the makes this building our home.”

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PHA and Bartram’s Garden talk about reconnecting Two historic sites in Southwest ­officials have begun talking about probably know that their homes ­Philadelphia that are separated by replacing and reopening the were once part of Bartram’s Garden a cavernous railroad line may be bridge. It’s part of a larger plan by before the land was developed for ­reconnected, just as they were years ago. ­America’s oldest botanic garden public housing during World War II. to expand and improve the visitor PHA’s Bartram Village is ­actually center at the site and to create more Louise Turan, Bartram’s ­Garden linked to Bartram’s Garden by natural walking paths. ­Executive Director, has been a ­footbridge that has long been ­working to improve the Garden’s closed. But PHA and Garden Few residents of Bartram Village relationship with PHA and its residents. She says residents face a hazard when going to the trolley stop because they have to cross the driveways for both the Village and the Garden. So, another goal is to move the trolley stop to a safer location; maybe in front of the Village.

“Children and families come on the weekends, and they have picnics on the grounds,” she says. “In addition to the historic part of the site, we In July, PHA was one of the sponsors of the 5th Annual Community Day at also have open public park land and Bartram’s Garden that featured crafts for children and an outdoor barbecue. ­recreation areas.” Three children shown here are taking part in a leaf printing exercise. PHA architect Michael Johns says the a great opportunity to make a great In July, PHA was one of the sponsors idea of reconnecting these locations ­asset a part of the community,” he says. of the 5th Annual Community Day at excites him. Bartram’s Garden that featured crafts Johns also says that Bartram’s Garden for children and an outdoor barbecue. “Every time I’ve gone to Bartram hopes to make a better connection Turan says they want to encourage ­Village I’ve had the feeling that few to Bartram Village by developing a visitors to grow their own garden PHA’s Bartram Village is actually linked to Bartram’s Garden by a footbridge people knew that this wonderful greenway and landscape areas. in addition to learning more about over a cavernous railroad line. The bridge has long been closed. ­garden was behind the site. This is nature each time they visit. New MTW agreement cheered continued from page 1 Next, HUD declared that PHA did not “Reaching this agreement took much “I’LL“I’LL QUITQUIT TODAY.”TODAY.” provide enough wheel-chair ­accessible longer than it should have, but under “The ten-year agreement is really housing. PHA filed suit over this the circumstances we had to take awesome,” said Carolyn Warren of finding, saying HUD was using the the actions that we did. We were not Herbert Arlene Homes. “It’s really an accessibility issue as an excuse to punish going to be strong-armed into giving excellent thing.” PHA. Executive Director Greene had away public land or agreeing to rules refused to give land at the Martin designed to put public housing out of Make Quitting Your Warren agreed with Bryant that helping Luther King site to a private developer business,” said Greene. residents achieve self-sufficiency is an favored by HUD Secretary Jackson. important MTW benefit. For Rose Bryant, this was a team effort Jackson resigned under investigation and the better team won. New Year’s Resolution Corliss Gray of Queen Lane pointed out in April, and the new HUD secretary, that Moving to Work has enabled PHA Steve Preston, was determined to “When you all work together for one to improve the quality of its construction. resolve the problem. common goal, you can’t do anything Pennsylvania’s FREE QUITLINE 1.800.QUIT.NOW “Moving to Work has done a lot for the but win,” she said. has been clinically tested and proven to help City and the developments,” Gray said. smokers quit and stay quit. “We’re the best-looking things in town.” She added that the program has Call today for information also helped many residents become homeowners and move out of public or to set your quit date. housing. “If we didn’t have MTW, that wouldn’t be possible.”

You would think that such a great FREE QUITLINE 1.800.QUIT.NOW program would have been automatically 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK continued, but it wasn’t that easy. The Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Cancer Society, your partners in helping you quit. When it came time to renew the ­original plan, HUD insisted on making changes. PHA fiercely objected to a provision called “asset management,” PHA Executive Director Carl Greene signs the new Moving to Work which, in effect, says each public ­agreement while Assistant Executive Directors Dianne Rosenthal (left) and ­housing site must make a profit. Carolyn Carter (right) look on. www.pha.phila.gov