January/February 2011

First-Class U.S. Postage Paid New York, NY Permit No. 4119

NYCHA

Vol. 41 No. 1 www.nyc.gov/nycha January/February 2011

inside Work on Federalized Developments this issue Progresses

tion and rehabilitation work has begun at all 21 developments, much to the delight of residents. Susan Lee, a resident at Rutgers Houses in Manhattan for 48 years, said she and her neighbors have dealt with leaky roofs and flooding situations in Community Centers Get Journatheirl own apartments for years. Fresh Paint: The long-term fix – replacing Residents Team Up With NYCHA, Habitat the worn down roofs – was not for Humanity » read more on page 5 feasible financially until now. “Since the roofs have been replaced I haven’t heard com-

The Rutgers Houses (Manhattan) roof is shown in the middle of its makeover as part of the renovations being plaints about any leaky roofs,” made at the 21 developments that were federalized in 2010. said the 86-year old Mrs. Lee, Find Out How to Ensure Your a former Resident Association president and Resident Watch member since 1968. “At first tenants were a little Development Gets Its Fair Share impatient and they were exposed to some difficulties By Heidi Morales while repairs were being done, but now since the repairs, he 21 developments that were federalized in 2010 to they are more at ease.” address funding deficits for the New York City Hous- In March 2010, NYCHA completed the federalization Kids + Holiday Gifts T ing Authority (NYCHA) are starting to see some of the of 21 developments that no longer received funding from = Big Smiles page 9 » read more on positive results coming out of the historic plan. Construc- the City or State. Funds to maintain the continued on page 2 

us to be more social and interactive,” Inaugural NYCHA Resident Training said Lewis Bailey of Ocean Bay Houses in Queens, who plans to be Academy Graduates Go to Work certified in a union and perform By Eric Deutsch and Robin Hood trains residents construction work. “It’s a blessing he New York City Housing to become either Caretakers with and I feel like being in the first class T Authority (NYCHA) recently NYCHA or construction workers blazes a trail for other residents.” celebrated the graduation of more with NYCHA contractors. The one- NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea A Vegetable Garden than three dozen residents from the year pilot project, which will train told the graduates that the Authority Grows in Brooklyn » read more on page 10 NYCHA Resident Training Academy up to 150 residents, is funded by is committed to providing residents – the first residents to graduate Robin Hood. with tools and opportunities that Five Developments Snag from the innovative program. The “The program did more than pre- can lead to economic success. Green “Love Your Block” Grants partnership between the Authority pare us for just jobs, it also prepared “Economic continued on page 2  » read more on page 3

fast facts

1,620 public housing residents and Section 8 participants took part in the Plan to Preserve Public Housing phone survey. The Murphy Houses Community Center (Bronx) made the largest donation NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea (center) and Vice Chairman Earl Andrews, Jr. (far left) stand with some of the graduates of the first class of the of food at NYCHA’s annual NYCHA Resident Training Academy on December 21, 2010. toy drive – 169 cans. 2 January/February 2011 The Housing Authority Journal

 continued from page 1 Work on Federalized Developments Progresses NYCHA developments were drawn from NYCHA is able to preserve roof repairs, heating upgrades NYCHA’s operating budget, public housing and ensure fiscal and elevator modernization.” Board Meetings which created deficits for the stability, two of the objectives The landmark transaction otice hereby is given that the New York City Authority. Federalization, also of the Plan to Preserve Public already has qualified more NHousing Authority’s Board Meetings take place called the Mixed Finance Trans- Housing, which will set the than 11,000 apartments for an every other Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Board action, was approved by the Authority’s vision for the next ongoing annual subsidy from Room on the 12th floor of 250 Broadway, New York, federal Department of Housing five years. “Federalization will HUD of $65 to $75 million for New York (unless otherwise noted). The remaining and Urban Development (HUD). allow NYCHA to receive more costs associated with the op- meetings for Calendar Year 2011 are as follows: For the 21 developments to than $400 million in public and erations and capital needs of January 5 May 11 September 14 be qualified to receive an- private funding to revitalize and the developments. NYCHA is January 19 May 25 September 28 nual federal subsidies, NYCHA make needed capital improve- taking the steps necessary to February 2 June 7 (Tuesday) October 12 transferred ownership of the ments at these developments ensure compliance with HUD February 16 June 22 October 26 developments to two separate through 2012,” said Carlos and federal Internal Revenue March 2 July 6 November 9 limited liability companies, Laboy, Managing Director for Service (IRS) rules required by March 16 July 20 November 23 with NYCHA as the managing Mixed Finance Asset Manage- this transaction. To do that, the March 30 August 3 December 7 member. With this transaction, ment. “This includes brickwork, Authority needs the coopera- April 13 August 17 December 21 tion of its most important allies April 27 August 31 – its residents. Residents living in Amster- Any changes to the schedule above will be posted dam Addition, Castle Hill, here and on NYCHA’s website at nyc.gov/nycha to Marble Hill, Manhattanville, the extent practicable at a reasonable time before Chelsea and Rutgers recently the meeting. received letters asking them to These meetings are open to the public. Pre- complete and return several registration at least 45 minutes before the scheduled documents, which are vital to Board Meeting is required by all speakers. Comments NYCHA’s efforts to receive the are limited toc the items on the Calendar. Speaking financing that will be used to time will be limited to three minutes. The public maintain and improve the de- comment period will conclude upon all speakers being velopments for the long-term. heard or at the expiration of 30 minutes allotted by law Residents are encouraged to for public comment, whichever occurs first. reach out to their Management Copies of the Calendar are available on NYCHA’s Office as soon as possible if website or can be picked up at the Office of the they need any assistance in fill- Secretary at 250 Broadway, 12th floor, New York, New ing out the documents, if they York, no earlier than 3:00 p.m. on the Friday before the have any questions or if they upcoming Wednesday Board Meeting. Copies of the have not received them. Disposition are available on NYCHA’s website or can be For her part, Susan Lee is picked up at the Office of the Secretary no earlier than working actively to ensure 3:00 p.m. on the Thursday after the Board Meeting. Rutgers Houses residents send Any person requiring a reasonable accommodation Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. in their forms. “We are very in order to participate in the Board Meeting should happy,” said Mrs. Lee. “We contact the Office of the Secretary at (212) 306-6088 are trying to get everybody no later than five business days before the Board 76 to fill out those forms, so we, Meeting. For additional information, please visit years NYCHA of Public Housing NYCHA, can get the money.” NYCHA’s website or call (212) 306-6088. in New York City

ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000  continued from page 1 Inaugural NYCHA Resident Training Academy Graduates Go to Work Published monthly by the New York City Housing Authority Department of Communications empowerment is a critical train up to 1,000 residents for The not-for-profit service Journa250 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10007l component of strengthening additional jobs, adding other organizations Brooklyn Work- Tel (212) 306-3322 • Fax (212) 577-1358 NYCHA families and NYCHA provider partners and employ- force Innovations, the Building nyc.gov/nycha communities. When a resident ment sectors, such as exter- Works Program and Nontradi- Michael R. Bloomberg ��Mayor is employed in work that pays mination services. A job as an tional Employment for Women John B. Rhea �� Chair Earl Andrews, Jr. ��Vice‑Chair a good wage, he or she has a exterminator is the ultimate conduct the trainings. NYCHA’s Margarita López ��Board Member greater ability to care for their goal of Milagros Colmenares Office of Resident Economic Vilma Huertas ��Secretary Michael Kelly ��General Manager family,” said Chairman Rhea. of Castle Hill Houses in the Empowerment and Sustainabili- Lynn Godfrey ��Chief Communications Officer “In fact, empowering NYCHA Bronx, who has used the Train- ty (REES) conducts outreach and Sheila Stainback ��Communications Officer residents through educational ing Academy to land a position recruitment and assists with job Eric Deutsch…….. �� Editor Heidi Morales ��Editor, Spanish Edition opportunities, workforce as a Caretaker J with NYCHA. placement. The phone number Tischelle George �� Online News Editor training and stable jobs that “I’m proud of myself and my for REES is 718-289-8100. Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza �� Photography Christian Nwachukwu �� Staff Writer pay livable wages can benefit classmates. I wanted a better To read another story about Brent Grier �� Staff Writer the entire City.” paying, full-time job so I can NYCHA’s Resident Training If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please Based on the program’s suc- better support my family,” said Academy, go to www.citylimits. call our marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue Development at (212) 306‑6614. The inclusion of any advertisement in this cess, Robin Hood will consider Ms. Colmenares. “But this is org, click on ‘News,’ then click Journal does not constitute any endorsement by the Housing Authority additional funding that will just step one.” on ‘Housing and Development.’ of the advertiser or its products or services or any other representation by the Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. The Housing Authority Journal January/February 2011 3

Message from the Chairman

I want to share with you the many exciting assets. We have projects underway to help our residents find jobs at NYCHA and and major initiatives that are underway with NYCHA vendors. In December, our NYCHA Training Academy graduated in 2011. All of our efforts are part of its first class of residents who now are eligible for jobs with NYCHA and our NYCHA’s comprehensive five-year vision construction contractors. The Academy will continue to produce successful – the Plan to Preserve Public Housing candidates moving forward. – which will launch in early summer. This year youth living in NYCHA housing will have a number of exciting options The Plan will serve as a vital roadmap to that will help them grow. Our partnership with the Foundation For the Advancement improving our current services, enhancing of Women Now (FFAWN), which was founded by singer Mary J. Blige and music residents’ quality of life and tackling other challenges to ensure public housing executive Steve Stoute, will begin its workshops soon for more than 80 girls to is safe and secure in the future. develop their self-esteem, share information on healthy living and learn ways to One of our priorities is to address the backlog of maintenance projects and manage their money. We will continue to work with the Sylvia Center to provide reduce wait times for individual unit repair work. We may not get to everyone healthy eating and nutrition workshops and the Hip Hop Theater Festival to inspire right away, but we want to make a concerted effort towards putting a dent in their interest in the arts. Mentoring USA will provide mentor training and program the work-order backlog. This includes putting $8 million toward priority work- management to create a strong and lasting foundation for their lives. orders and focusing our capital program on building improvements such as roof In partnership with Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ), we will break ground and brickwork that will minimize future needs for maintenance work in your on a new HCZ K-12 school and community facility at St. Nicholas Houses in units. Residents in our 21 developments that are newly federalized will continue 2011. The 1,300-student charter school will provide after-school and weekend to see upgrading and modernizing of their surroundings with brick work, roof programming free of charge to residents and the surrounding community. HCZ repairs and elevator upgrades scheduled to be completed at six of is committed to hiring locally for 100 available positions and is working with the developments in 2011. NYCHA resident services to recruit for these new jobs. We also are working The Safety and Security Task Force, a collaboration among NYCHA, NYPD, closely with local unions and HCZ to hire as many qualified residents as possible. public housing residents and other stakeholders, continues to work to improve As part of our Green Agenda, we will continue to work with other City the long-term safety and well-being of NYCHA residents in New York City. agencies, as well as the private sector and other housing authorities, to help us We plan to install the first multi-layered access control at Mott Haven Houses, which all achieve a low-carbon lifestyle, as we look for ways to contribute to greener includes replacing keys with electronic key tags, direct-call intercoms and more surroundings. This includes adding more developments to the storm water pilot durable components to reduce the effects of vandalism. The Mott Haven upgrades program to support Mayor Bloomberg’s Green Infrastructure goal of reducing are made possible through a grant from the federal Department of Housing and combined sewage overflow by 40 percent by 2030. Urban Development (HUD). We will work with HUD and our elected officials We have an ambitious agenda ahead of us this year – dozens of programs to find creative ways to continue funding these important safety enhancements. and initiatives are not even mentioned here. Working together with you all to We will work with community-based organizations, sister City agencies, achieve our common goals will make 2011 a year of success for public housing community colleges and businesses to help residents increase their earnings and in New York City.

Green Living Leads to High Honors for NYCHA Developments By Brent Grier Love Your Block Grants Minor, who chairs the committee. Tree guards are on several heating and lighting upgrades at Castle Awarded in Four Boroughs needed to protect the health of NYCHA’s trees, Hill. AEE selected NYCHA’s energy management especially newly planted trees that can be subject project in a regional judging that included several he enthusiasm of residents in five New to damage and vandalism. states. To receive consideration, the project had T York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Castle Hill Upgrades to be operational for at least six months and developments to make their community more Bring National Recognition proven to bring down installation costs and beautiful has paid off. Astoria Houses (Queens), operating savings. Hope Gardens (Brooklyn), Ravenswood Houses reen initiatives at Castle Hill Houses in the In efforts to improve residents’ comfort and (Queens), Samuel Apartments (Manhattan) GBronx make it a modern marvel in public quality of life, NYCHA installed upgraded climate and Soundview Houses (Bronx) all received a housing. NYCHA is the first housing authority ever controls and lighting systems in 2010. The proj- $500 “Love Your Block” grant from the Citizens to win an “Energy Project of the Year” award from ect includes Wireless Energy Modules in each Committee for New York City, in partnership with the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) based apartment that monitor apartment temperatures, the Mayor’s Office. voltage and demand. The new, efficient lighting in The grants are available to community groups common areas provides added safety for residents. that strive to beautify their block, such as by plant- The project also created green construction jobs ing trees, removing graffiti and clearing vacant for residents through NYCHA’s Resident Employ- lots. They also include expedited support from City ment Services program. agencies such as the Departments of Parks and “This award is very special. We were competing Recreation, Sanitation and Transportation. against big companies and this represents the fact The Uptown Harlem Resident Green Committee that we are doing the right thing,” said Commis- representing Samuel Apartments received a grant sioner Margarita López, NYCHA’s Environmental for tree guards, and like the other winners, will host Coordinator. “This is a pilot program that if it con- events this Spring and Summer to promote their tinues to go well, we will replicate it across other project. “We’re going to install crafted tree guards Upper Harlem Resident Green Committee Chair Cheryl Minor developments. Every penny that we don’t spend and Co-Chair Channie Allen plant bulbs on Adam Clayton along West 144th Street between Seventh and Powell, Jr. Boulevard with the Friends of Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. on energy, we can use on maximizing services like Lenox Avenues thanks to the grant,” said Cheryl Boulevard Committee. maintenance and safety for residents.” 4 January/February 2011 The Housing Authority Journal

The NYCHA Not Wanted List Plan to Preserve Public Housing: NYCHA Completes

In this issue we continue publishing the names of individuals who have been excluded permanently from our public housing devel- Groundbreaking Effort for Resident Input opments. The purpose of this list is to keep residents informed of he New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) has completed an unprecedented effort to NYCHA’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers in public housing and to allow for the peaceful and safe use T gather residents’ ideas and opinions on their experiences living in public housing in New of our facilities. What follows is a partial list of the people excluded York City. To better understand the needs and expectations of NYCHA’s diverse population, after hearings were held on May 19 and 26 and June 2, 2010. including Section 8 residents, the Authority ran focus groups and a phone survey, the most complete resident research effort undertaken by a public housing authority. The effort is a key Prohibited as of May 19, 2010 part of the Plan to Preserve Public Housing, NYCHA’s comprehensive five-year vision that will Frances Benjamin case 3484/10 formerly associated with the serve as a vital roadmap for addressing current services and quality of life concerns, as well as 3rd fl., 380 Williams Avenue, Unity Plaza Houses, Brooklyn other challenges in the future. Christopher Bonds case 3574/10 formerly associated with the NYCHA held 16 focus groups across all five boroughs, recruiting residents through several 5th fl., 51-32 Beach Channel Drive, Ocean Bay Apts. Houses, Brooklyn methods including random selection and whether they participate in associations or activi- Kasheem El, a/k/a Michael Suber case 3573/10 formerly asso- ties. NYCHA also worked with community-based organizations to find participants. The focus ciated with the 2nd fl., 414 Sutter Avenue, Van Dyke Houses, groups were made up of different demographics, including Resident Association leaders, Brooklyn residents who work for NYCHA and Section 8 participants; some focus groups were held in Michael Keller case 3259/10 formerly associated with the Spanish, Russian or Cantonese. 14th fl., 182 East 98th Street, Washington/Lexington Houses, The focus groups were led by a research firm, so participants could feel comfortable speaking Manhattan freely and remain anonymous. Residents discussed their experiences living in NYCHA or Section Nelson Nieves case 1723/10 formerly associated with the 13th fl., 1875 Third Avenue, Washington/Lexington Houses, 8 housing. They talked about NYCHA’s perceived strengths and weaknesses and programs and Manhattan services available to NYCHA communities, and shared their opinions on ways that NYCHA can Carlos Sutton case 3346/10 formerly associated with the 10th generate more revenue in the future to help balance its budget and improve frontline services. fl., 2250 West 11th Street, Marlboro Houses, Brooklyn The phone survey featured a wide-ranging questionnaire with 61 questions. More than Taquan Walston case 3503/10 formerly associated with the 1,000 residents and more than 600 Section 8 participants, chosen at random, took part in the 2nd fl., 99 North Portland Avenue, Whitman Houses, Brooklyn phone survey. The survey measured whether residents are satisfied with NYCHA, how NYCHA D’Sean Williams case 3488/10 formerly associated with the 6th fl., 5814 Farragut Road, Glenwood Houses, Brooklyn handles repairs and if they feel that NYCHA is a safe place to live and raise children. Topics also included how NYCHA manages emergencies, whether residents make use of available so- Charles Wynn case 3376/10 formerly associated with the 13th fl., 3340 Bailey Avenue, Bailey Houses, Bronx cial services and what residents think the impression is that other New Yorkers have of NYCHA. The results of the focus groups and phone survey are being compiled and will be released Prohibited as of May 26, 2010 later this year. The results will be summarized in a future issue of the Journal. Dennis Barral case 3647/10 formerly associated with the 8th fl., 310 East 113th Street, Jefferson Houses, Manhattan Chris Brooks case 5986/10 formerly associated with the 2nd fl., 611 Blake Avenue, Unity Plaza Houses, Brooklyn Social Services Department Kicks Off Michael Brooks case 3642/10 formerly associated with the 22nd fl., 7301 Sutter Avenue, Langston Hughes/Woodson Workshop Series for Resident Leaders Houses, Brooklyn Esau Daniels case 3591/10 formerly associated with the 2nd fl., provides support to individuals 108-46 159th Street, South Jamaica Houses, Queens and groups who are in crisis, Jacqueline Duncan case 7891/09 formerly associated with the have lost someone to suicide 2nd fl., 611 Blake Avenue, Unity Plaza Houses, Brooklyn and/or are feeling suicidal. Francisco Fernandez case 7388/09 formerly associated with the A second workshop, about 3rd fl., 710 Tinton Avenue, Adams Houses, Bronx depression, drew 58 resident Richard Hill case 3600/10 formerly associated with the 18th fl., 1368 Webster Avenue, Butler Houses, Bronx leaders in December and featured presentations from Albert Martinez case 3740/10 formerly associated with the 8th fl., 70 East 115th Street, Taft Houses, Manhattan Visiting Nurse Service of New Jermaine Rainey case 3032/10 formerly associated with the 1st York, a long-time partner of fl., 1120 East 229th Street, Edenwald Houses, Bronx NYCHA. A large majority of Charles Torres case 3648/10 formerly associated with the 3rd fl., attendees rated the workshops 1680 Randall Avenue, Soundview Houses, Bronx NYCHA residents receive training on recognizing and preventing suicide at one of as excellent or good, with Rodney Veeney case 3697/10 formerly associated with the the Social Services Department’s workshops for resident leaders. almost all saying they would 4th fl., 30 Centre Mall, Red Hook West Houses, Brooklyn he New York City Housing subcommittee of the NYCHA use the information learned Richard White case 7388/09 formerly associated with the Authority’s (NYCHA) Safety and Security Task to help their family members, 14th fl., 157 Belmont Avenue, Seth Low Houses, Brooklyn T Social Services Department Force, which is pursuing and friends, colleagues and Shawn Williams case 3589/10 formerly associated with the 2nd fl., 40-15 10th Street, Queens Bridge North Houses, Queens hosts an ongoing series of rolling out new policies and neighbors. Derek Young case 3588/10 formerly associated with the 15th fl., workshops for resident leaders procedures that will improve The Social Services Depart- 180 Powell Street, Seth Low Houses, Brooklyn that provide information and the long-term safety and ment plans to hold these infor- awareness about issues of well-being of public housing mative workshops every three Prohibited as of June 2, 2010 common concern. Created at residents in New York City. months. Future topics are Steven Glisson case 3783/10 formerly associated with the the suggestion of Manhattan The first workshop in scheduled to include elder and 2nd fl., 1780 Watson Avenue, Bronxdale Houses, Bronx South District Chair Rose September focused on child abuse, mental illness and Kendell Scott case 210/10 formerly associated with the 16th fl., Bergin, the workshops are recognizing and preventing grandparents raising children. 1734 Madison Avenue, Taft Houses, Manhattan part of the Social Services suicide. Thirty participants For more information, contact Department’s communication received information from Social Services Department strategy developed by the Samaritans of New York, Deputy Director Pat Maloney Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. the Resident Engagement a volunteer organization that at 212-306-3392. The Housing Authority Journal January/February 2011 5

NYCHA, Habitat for Humanity, HCZ and NYCHA are in the Zone Bring Volunteers Together to NYCHA Board “Brush with Kindness” Approves New By Eric Deutsch Charter School number of New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) he plan by the New York Acommunity centers will have fresh paint jobs over the next TCity Housing Authority couple of months. The Brush with Kindness program brings (NYCHA) and the Harlem public housing residents together with NYCHA employees and Children’s Zone (HCZ) to build Habitat for Humanity volunteers to paint community centers a charter school at St. Nicho- throughout the city. las Houses in Manhattan is “We want residents to be enthusiastic and see that we’re proceeding toward opening in keeping up with the times,” said Tyree Stanback, Resident 2012. The new charter school, Association President at Lafayette Gardens in Brooklyn, the first rebuilding of the connecting development to receive a new coat of paint in its community street and use of the facility for center. “We’re offering them an opportunity to participate and community activities will help take ownership of their community center. People are less likely revitalize the development The Harlem Children’s Zone held a holiday tree lighting ceremony for St. Nicholas to treat their surroundings poorly if they put it together.” and expand HCZ services to Houses residents and staff on December 7, 2010. Shown speaking to the crowd is Brush with Kindness is part of the Housing for Housing Initia- New York City Councilwoman Inez Dickens. families throughout the area. tive, a partnership among NYCHA, Habitat for Humanity NYC, NYCHA’s board voted in our residents, while preserving 10 and its Land Use Commit- Habitat for Humanity International and the NYCHA Haitian- December to approve the public housing,” said NYCHA tee for rebuilding West 129th American Employee Association. Housing for Housing supports development of the new K-12 Chairman John B. Rhea. “We Street, but the Board did not the rebuilding efforts in Haiti by raising funds and having partici- school and community center are committed to using these vote to support the change. pants travel to Haiti to rebuild permanent housing for families building. The project is part collaborative strategies to However, it is important for the struck by the devastating earthquake in 2010. The Brush with of NYCHA’s effort to meet bring services to the residents more than 30 children from Kindness kickoff was held at the Lafayette Gardens Community President Obama’s Choice of public housing and to open the development who have Center on January 11, 2011, the day before the one-year an- Neighborhoods and Promise up developments to the larger been accepted into the school niversary of the earthquake. Neighborhoods challenge to community. This new school and their families to know that “Today we celebrate the power of communities coming to- housing authorities to inte- will be a win-win situation for the board’s opinion is advisory gether and, person by person, transforming their neighborhoods grate their residents with the St. Nicholas Houses.” and the final decision will be to ensure that the foundation for strong families and strong larger community and link NYCHA and HCZ actively made by the City Council. futures will endure,” said NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea. them to outside educational are engaging residents and When the school is com- “Together we will make NYCHA better and we will make resources. The school build- the surrounding community pleted, 1,300 students will housing better for others as well,” said New continued on page 7  ing, to be funded by HCZ for their support of the project, benefit from a top-notch with assistance from the New which includes re-opening education, after-school and York City School Construction West 129th Street to through weekend programs for no Authority, also will be avail- traffic at Frederick Douglas cost at all. able for community program- Boulevard to allow for buses “We are very excited to ming, including the use of the and parents dropping off their see this project move forward gymnasium in evenings and kids to access the school. This so that more children at St. on weekends. includes wider sidewalks, new Nicholas Houses can get a “This project is about the speed bumps and signage, great education and there will future of NYCHA working with and narrow entrances and be more services and jobs for different partners such as the exits from the street to ensure the families there,” said Har- Harlem Children’s Zone to traffic moves slowly down the lem Children’s Zone President The computer room at the Lafayette Gardens Community Center in Brooklyn offers create more education and block. NYCHA sought the and Chief Executive Officer a bright atmosphere for residents after receiving a new coat of paint as part of employment opportunities for backing of Community Board Geoffrey Canada. Brush with Kindness, a joint effort between NYCHA and Habitat for Humanity. 6 January/February 2011 The Housing Authority Journal

Hugh Spence, Deputy General Manager for Community Operations, Retires

ugh Spence, a name followed a very different population of New Yorkers Hwell-known to many mission,” he said. “NYCHA, who are so vital to the suc- NYCHA residents, has retired from its inception, was built cess of this city.” after serving for 33 years at on the premise of managing As he begins his retire- the New York City Housing our precious properties as ment, Mr. Spence is looking Authority. Mr. Spence was more than just a landlord. forward to spending more the Deputy General Manager I do not believe any other quality time with his friends for Community Operations, environment would have al- and family, perfecting his and started as a Director of lowed me to give of myself, gardening and wine-making Townhomes Still Available for Purchase several NYCHA-operated mind, body and spirit, to a skills and travelling. at Markham Gardens community centers. He also hrough the redevelopment of the former Markham Gardens served in numerous other T public housing site, 15 new and energy-efficient two-family positions, including Director townhomes still are available for purchase by income-eligible of Citywide Programs and NYCHA residents. The townhomes are on Broadway near Contract Management and Richmond Terrace in Staten Island, and include a three-bedroom Chief of the Division of Ten- unit for the purchaser and a one-bedroom unit that can be ant Programs. rented to assist the purchaser with mortgage payments. The full Mr. Spence believes the purchase price is $445,000, but with subsidies, the actual price services Community Op- of the homes is $299,000. Depending on the income of the erations provides are critical purchaser, there is the possibility of additional down payment resources. “If not for the and closing cost support. A minimum family income of $50,700 vision of social scientists at is required to qualify for a mortgage. the turn of the century who An open house is scheduled for Saturday, February 12, from conceived the concept of 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more details, call 718-422-8080 or visit

public housing, public hous- Former NYCHA Deputy General Manager for Community Operations Hugh NHS of Staten Island online at www.nhsnyc.org/en/find-a-home ing as we know it may have Spence throws out the first pitch at NYCHA’s Staten Island Yankees Day in 2009. and click on “Affordable Homes Marketed by NHS” and then click on “Read More” for Markham Gardens. The Housing Authority Journal January/February 2011 7

Resident Stars Shine at Ninth Bronx Seniors Take group of residents from Athe Soundview Houses Annual Holiday Concert Strides to Fight Senior Center in the Bronx took to the pavement to ore than 100 New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) help support breast cancer Mresidents showed off their talents at the Authority’s Breast Cancer research in late 2010. Ninth Annual Holiday Concert on December 10, 2010. The The seniors raised more festivities were kicked off by the NYCHA Symphony Orchestra than $430 as part of the performing an Overture and Hanukah music. Guest vocal- American Cancer Society ist Cheryl Freeman followed up by singing “Mary, Did You Making Strides Against Know?” The NYCHA Dance Troupe then took the stage to Breast Cancer walk in perform a tribute to Kwanzaa. Next, the NYCHA Senior Cho- Orchard Beach. In addition rus sang “Give Love on Christmas Day” and “Joy,” followed to participating in the by a performance of “Precious Lord” by Gary Samuels, Marck walk, they also sold pink Tarlton and Ola Waymmann. The NYCHA Youth Chorus then ribbons that they made emerged to sing “My Grown Up Christmas List” and “Joy- and brought with them ful, Joyful.” Another guest vocalist, José Guevara, strummed whenever they went on a Spanish medley on his guitar, “Pastores Venid/Peces En El trips throughout the year. Río” and “Navidad Que Viene.” The concert came to a rous- Soundview Houses Senior ing close with the entire ensemble belting out “Put A Little Center Director Dennis Love In Your Heart” and “Lean on Me.” Kandell assisted by driving The annual concert provides an opportunity for talented them to the event. residents to display their gifts at a professional venue, this year at City College of New York, in Aaron Davis Hall’s Marian Anderson Theater. This year’s concert theme, “Home for the Holidays,” highlighted the principles of faith, hope and charity during the season of giving.

Get FREE Tax Help Beware of Refund Anticipation Loans here are free tax onsumers beware: receiving your tax refund sooner Tassistance centers Cmight not be worth it. Refund anticipation loans throughout the city that are very expensive because you have to pay fees and provide professional help high interest. Also, if your refund is denied, then you with filing taxes. Call 311 for have to pay back the loan plus interest. Another point the location of sites in your to be aware of is if your tax returns are accurate and area. If you qualify, remember filed electronically, the IRS usually will pay out the return to file for the Earned Income within two weeks. If you choose to receive your refund Tax Credit (EITC). through direct deposit, you may get it within a week. An ensemble of all of the night’s performers closes out NYCHA’s Ninth Annual Holiday Concert with a performance of “Put A Little Love in Your Heart” and “Lean on Me” on December 10, 2010.

 continued from page 5 NYCHA, Habitat for Humanity, Bring Volunteers Together to “Brush with Kindness” York City Councilwoman Rosie Mendez, Chair of the Council’s Public Housing Committee. Since 2007, NYCHA and Habitat NYC volunteers have assisted in revitalizing public housing facilities. Brush with Kindness connects communities through simple acts of kindness so that families can live in safe and decent neighborhoods. The NYCHA/Habitat NYC partnership expanded in 2010 to include joint fundraising for the Haiti earthquake relief. “We love to be joined by NYCHA residents and staff. We want it to be a true partnership, not just a handout from Habi- tat,” said Habitat NYC Executive Director Joshua Lockwood. The other community centers scheduled to be painted in the Bronx are Fort Independence, Gun Hill, Monterey and Sedgwick; in Manhattan, Baruch, Campos Plaza, De Hostos, East River, Manhattanville and Riis; in Queens, Astoria and South Jamaica; and in Staten Island, Mariners Harbor. For more information about the Housing for Housing Initiative, send an e-mail to [email protected].

Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. 8 January/February 2011 The Housing Authority Journal The Housing Authority Journal January/February 2011 9 Deputy Mayor Stephen ing back as well as receiving, which helps them to develop Goldsmith: Government Can a sense of responsibility,” said NYCHA Education Manager Do More with Outside Help for Programs and Assessment D’Andra Van Heusen. ew York City Deputy Mayor for Operations Stephen The food drive collected NGoldsmith visited the New York City Housing Authority more than 1,000 cans of food. (NYCHA) on November 30, 2010, to discuss how government “I am proud of all of you agencies can cope with inadequate financing and limited As the Sonia Sotomayor Community Center in the Bronx quickly filled up with because even though you resources, a situation the Authority current faces. A former Mayor children at NYCHA’s toy drive on December 16, 2010, a highly energetic Mrs. care about getting a gift, you of Indianapolis, Deputy Mayor Goldsmith told NYCHA staff that Claus, making her first appearance at the annual event, kept young guests entertained with songs, holiday trivia and dancing. also care about helping other public, private and nonprofit organizations can assist in the people,” NYCHA Chairman delivery of services once provided solely by government. “If “Sharing and Caring” at John B. Rhea told the children. there are not enough public resources to make government The community center’s work, we must leverage the public value in a community,” he NYCHA’s Holiday Toy Drive huge gymnasium was decked said. “We need to unlock the compassion and capacity of a By Howard Silver lap time with Santa himself. with banners and art work community, and also unlock innovation inside the government.” early 700 NYCHA youth “I’ll be asking Santa for a created by young residents Nenjoyed music, dancing, new football,” said Jaquel throughout the year in com- food – and of course gifts – at Owens, age 10, from Boule- munity centers with Visual Arts the Authority’s annual “Sea- vard Houses (Brooklyn). “And I staff, who carefully arranged son of Sharing” Toy Drive on brought canned food for home- the decorations. Ciara Shack, December 16. The joyous less people because if kids help age nine, from East River occasion was held at the Sonia too, there’s more food.” Houses (Manhattan), proudly Sotomayor Community Center The Toy Drive included a pointed out her artwork on one in the Bronx for young residents food drive for the Food Bank of of the banners. “Seeing this from all five boroughs. Children New York City, which encour- makes me feel like I did a good with faces as bright as holiday aged the children in attendance job because kids will enjoy it,” ornaments were greeted by to contribute. “We think it’s she said. “This party is about Santa Claus’ helpers, and the important for the children to girls and boys having a good festive atmosphere included understand the joy of giv- time, sharing and caring.” 10 January/February 2011 The Housing Authority Journal

Hungry for Fresh, Homegrown Veggies? Look No Brooklyn South Honors RA Presidents; Further than District COP Chair Rosia Wyche Retires Downtown he Brooklyn South District honored the presidents of its T Resident Associations on January 6, 2011, at their Presidents Brooklyn Award Dinner. District Chair Rosia Wyche received particular esidents at Ingersoll Hous- from July-October. neighbors at local markets recognition, as she is retiring after serving for more than eight Res in Brooklyn are enjoying The Ingersoll Garden of and community events. years as the Coney Island Houses’ Resident Association President, tomatoes, cantaloupes, bok Eden and Farm Stand are part More NYCHA residents and also for her service as the district’s representative on the choy and basil grown right in of a larger program, Myrtle will benefit from MARP’s Citywide Council of Presidents. their front yard. Over the past Eats Fresh, which receives efforts soon, as they plan to “I always tell people that they need to be a part of the solu- two years, the New York City financial support from the start working with residents tion. To do that, you have to be hand in hand with the adminis- Housing Authority (NYCHA) Brooklyn Community at the nearby developments tration,” said Ms. Wyche. “In my time, I’ve always spoke up and and the Myrtle Avenue Revi- Foundation and the New York Farragut Houses and spoke out, like it or not. In my heart, I know I’ve done what I was talization Project Local Devel- Community Trust. MARP coor- Whitman Houses to create supposed to do and that is to help.” opment Corporation (MARP) dinates gathering supplies like similar community gardens. NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea praised Ms. Wyche during have partnered with residents lumber, soil and wood chips, To learn more and get the ceremony. “You have carried the voices of the residents of to create the Ingersoll Garden buys garden tools, supplies involved in MARP’s Myrtle Coney Island Houses and Brooklyn South with you and been their of Eden on Myrtle Avenue. and food plants, and pro- Eats Fresh program, contact advocate, as well as a champion for public housing. And you have More than 20 residents tend vides staff support, organiz- Meredith Phillips Almeida, done so with honor, with conviction and, always, with style.” to the garden, cultivating fresh ing assistance and gardening Director of Community Pictured above with Chairman Rhea, from left to right, are Shir- food crops and flowers, which expertise. Some residents also Development, or Kassy ley Aikens (Carey Gardens), Deborah Carter (Gravesend Houses), are sold at the Myrtle Avenue have been trained to conduct Nystrom, Program Manager Pat Dale (Sheepshead Bay Houses), Wanda Feliciano (Unity Tow- community-run Farm Stand. cooking demos using healthy, of Food Access Initiatives, ers), Rosia Wyche (Coney Island Houses), Beverly Hill (Surfside East), The Farm Stand is located affordable foods and recipes. at 718-230-1689, or Shelia Smalls (O’Dwyer Gardens), Victoria Lynch (Coney Island Site 8), adjacent to the Ingersoll Com- The chefs were hired by MARP go to MARP’s website Doris Zeno (Nostrand Houses) and Lillian Marshall (Red Hook West). munity Center every Thursday to share their skills with their www.myrtleavenue.org.