Message from the Chairman NYCHA’S Challenges Are Daunting

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Vol. 42 No. 8 www.nyc.gov/nycha October 2012 Message from the Chairman NYCHA’s challenges are daunting. We have an aging infrastructure with a multi- billion dollar capital shortfall that faces ongoing cuts from the federal government, and a backlog of repairs that some residents wait for months or even years to be addressed. Since 2002, NYCHA’s annual capital subsidies have been cut in half in real terms – even though three quarters of our buildings are more than 30 years old. Over the past decade, NYCHA also has received $1.4 billion less in operating subsidies than is required by federal formula. Our roadmap for preserving public housing in New York City – Plan NYCHA – spells out very clearly what we need to do to renew and revitalize public housing. This includes finding new and creativeJourna ways for us to generate funding. With this in mind, l we are going to leverage one of the most valuable assets in the City: our land. Many NYCHA properties are under-built. We have room to grow. So we will offer our sites for the development of market rate and affordable housing and, in some cases, commercial, retail and community facilities. This will generate hundreds of NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea speaks at the Association for a Better New York breakfast on millions of dollars – all of which can be plowed back into our buildings to improve September 24, 2012, after being introduced by William C. Rudin, Chairman of ABNY. residents’ quality of life, and used to fix roofs, elevators and building facades and for other unmet capital needs. This program will create thousands of construction and permanent jobs – jobs that I want to be very clear on several points of how this effort will not affect residents. NYCHA residents will be well-positioned to get. It also will create thousands of units We do not need to demolish a single residential building to make this plan happen; of new housing, a portion of which will be affordable. we will develop on land where there is no current housing. We will not displace a While we have done a significant amount of work already, we still are in the single family. And we will not sell NYCHA land – this is not a plan to privatize public planning process. We will talk to you and get your thoughts, as well as from elected housing. We will enter into long-term leases on currently vacant land that will provide officials and other community leaders, before we finalize a list of the sites to develop. stable and predictable cash flow to NYCHA to rehabilitate our existing buildings. We Our goal is to see construction begin in early 2014. also will make best efforts to relocate parking and other community facilities that This plan, combined with two other initiatives which you can read more about may be displaced. below on this page, could fill as much as half of NYCHA’s current $6 billion backlog We will focus mostly on sites that have substantial commercial value and can of unfunded improvements. It will give NYCHA residents better homes and all New generate revenue for NYCHA. The residents who will benefit the most from the Yorkers more housing – a true win-win situation. increased revenue will be in the NYCHA communities where new development takes place. But not all of the benefits will be local – this program will be designed to benefit all of NYCHA’s residents as well. John B. Rhea

inside New NYCHA Efforts Will Generate Revenue this issue By Eric Deutsch of the Citywide Council of Presidents the Chair of the Council’s Public s described in NYCHA Chairman and Resident Association President at Housing Committee, said striking AJohn B. Rhea’s message above Seth Low Houses in Brooklyn, told the a balance between the two will on this page, NYCHA will make Journal. “It is a real, practical solution to be important. “It is important for available underdeveloped land on solve our problems.” residents who see work being done its properties for the development of The money NYCHA generates where they live to benefit from it,” market rate and affordable housing from the plan mostly will be used to she told the Journal. “But you don’t and, in some cases, commercial, retail benefit the specific communities where want some developments to get all and community facilities. The effort is the new development takes place. of the benefits just because they part of the Plan NYCHA goal to ad- However, some of the funds also will are located where there are more dress chronic and continued funding go into the Authority’s capital budget. opportunities.” cuts from the federal government. City Council Member Rosie Mendez, continued on page 3  In announcing the plan at a break- NYCHA Seniors fast sponsored by the Association for Get Health and Money Check-Ups at a Better New York on September 24, Annual Benefits Fair 2012, Chairman Rhea also announced » read more on page 5 two other initiatives – an audit of NYCHA’s energy practices to become NYCHA Residents/CUNY more energy efficient; and using a Students: federal Department of Housing and Scholarships Go a Long Way Urban Development (HUD) program » read more on page 6 to secure $500 million to pay for capital improvements. The three initiatives He’s 19 – combined could fill as much as half of and He’s a Resident Association NYCHA’s current $6 billion backlog of Vice President » read more on page 7 unfunded improvements. “I am excited about this initiative. It was developed in collaboration and partnership with resident leadership,” NYCHA will make available some underdeveloped land – such as existing parking lots – for market Reginald Bowman, the President rate and affordable housing and commercial, retail and community facilities. 2 October 2012 The Housing Authority Journal

NYCHA Residents’ Voices Board Meetings otice hereby is given that the New York City Housing Au- Nthority’s Board Meetings take place every other Wednes- day at 10:00 a.m. in the Board Room on the 12th floor of 250 Broadway, New York, New York (unless otherwise noted). The remaining meetings for Calendar Year 2012 are as follows:

October 10 November 21 September 3, 2012 October 24 December 5 (via e-mail) November 7 December 19 We are the Edenwald Resident Association from Edenwald Houses in the Bronx. We have Any changes to the schedule above will be posted here and never honored our caretakers/maintenance on NYCHA’s website at nyc.gov/nycha to the extent practicable crew for their hard work and dedication, and at a reasonable time before the meeting. for the sacrifices they make being sometimes These meetings are open to the public. Pre-registration short-staffed. The residents of Edenwald would at least 45 minutes before the scheduled Board Meeting is like to show their appreciation by honoring required by all speakers. Comments are limited to the items on them with a certificate of appreciation. the Calendar. Speaking time will be limited to three minutes. Walter McNeill, Edenwald Houses Resident September 11, 2012 The public comment period will conclude upon all speakers be- Association President (via Twitter) ing heard or at the expiration of 30 minutes allotted by law for (Ed. note: Members of the Resident Association My Tiana at the Ravenswood Community Center public comment, whichever occurs first. are shown gathering with the Edenwald staff) Carmen Ocasio, Ravenswood Houses Copies of the Calendar are available on NYCHA’s website or can be picked up at the Office of the Corporate Secretary Tell us what is on at 250 Broadway, 12th floor, New York, New York, no earlier Send a snail mail to: than 3:00 p.m. on the Friday before the upcoming Wednes- your mind! Please limit written submissions to 250 words. NYCHA Journal day Board Meeting. Copies of the Disposition are available Residents’ Voices accepts Letters to the Editor The Journal reserves the right on NYCHA’s website or can be picked up at the Office of the letters, photographs, poems, 250 Broadway, 12th floor drawings – anything that allows to edit all content for length, New York, NY 10007 Corporate Secretary no earlier than 3:00 p.m. on the Thursday you to express yourself! clarity, good taste, accuracy, etc. after the Board Meeting. Because of space limitations, we Send a Tweet on Twitter at Please include your full name, must limit all contributors to one twitter.com/NYCHA_Housing Any person requiring a reasonable accommodation in order development name, address letter per person per issue. Post a message on Facebook at to participate in the Board Meeting should contact the Office and phone number. We will There are many ways to share www.facebook.com/NYCHA of the Corporate Secretary at (212) 306-6088 no later than five print only your name and development on our pages; your thoughts with us at the Send a fax to 212-577-1358 business days before the Board Meeting. For additional infor- Journal: we need your address and If you have any questions, mation, please visit NYCHA’s website or call (212) 306-6088. phone number for verification Send an e-mail to please send them to purposes only. [email protected] [email protected]. Check out NYCHA’s Facebook page! ot a web-enabled smartphone? Now you can access NYCHA’s Former Prospect Plaza Residents GFacebook page and bonus content in this issue by scanning Benefit from Financial Services or taking a snapshot of the QR codes. The QR code for NYCHA’s s part of NYCHA’s redevelopment and revital- and minimize predatory financial service fees. Her Facebook page is on the right. ization of Prospect Plaza in Brooklyn, the Office goal is to move back to the redeveloped Prospect Step 1: Download a QR code scanner application A of Resident Economic Empowerment and Sustain- Plaza site, a community she says she misses. “I from your phone’s marketplace (many of these ability (REES) continues to work closely with relocat- loved the shopping, transportation, and overall “apps” are free to download). Step 2: Point your ed residents of the former development to provide feeling of safety,” she said. phone’s camera at the QR image. financial planning and management and credit- and In 2007, the Prospect Plaza rehabilitation proj- asset-building services. The organizations Neigh- ect was suspended after it was determined that it borhood Trust Financial Partners (NTFP) and the was financially infeasible to renovate the towers. Brownsville Partnership provide the services. NYCHA went back to the drawing board and, with

NYCHA Construction on the mixed-use buildings is input from former residents and community stake- scheduled to start in 2013, with public housing and holders, developed the Re-Vision Prospect Plaza ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 affordable housing units, ground floor retail space, Community Plan in 2010. Published monthly by the New York City Housing Authority open space and a community center. There will In its first full year of providing services, NTFP Department of Communications • 250 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10007 Tel (212) 306-3322 • Fax (212) 577-1358 • nyc.gov/nycha be a minimum of 80 NYCHA public housing units (formerly known as Credit Where Credit Is Due) Michael R. Bloomberg �� Mayor and approximately 280 affordable housing units. and the Brownsville Partnership contacted every John B. Rhea ��Chairman Former residents will have first priority to return to former Prospect Plaza resident. More than 120 of Emily Youssouf….Journa ��l Vice-Chair Margarita López �� Board Member the redeveloped Prospect Plaza site. They will have them used the services and had financial action Victor A. Gonzalez �� Board Member Vilma Huertas ��Corporate Secretary to undergo a credit check as part of the application plans created. Other NYCHA residents who live Cecil House �� General Manager process, as will any new applicant. The free services in Brooklyn Community Board 16 – including Lynn Godfrey ��Chief Communications Officer Sheila Stainback ��Communications Officer former Prospect Plaza residents receive help them Brownsville, Howard, Hughes Apartments, Sutter Eric Deutsch ��Editor become economically prepared to qualify for the Ave-Union Street, Tilden and Van Dyke I – also Zodet Negrón �� Editor, Spanish Edition Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza ��Photographers new housing. now can access the financial services and will get Michael Corwin ��Senior Writer Howard Silver, Heidi Morales, Brent Grier, Ryan Dicovitsky �� Staff Writers Cynthia Vaughn, who currently lives at Boule- preference within the lottery to inhabit a set num- If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please call our vard Houses in Brooklyn, has been receiving the ber of the new units. For more information, go to marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue Development financial counseling services, which allowed her www.revisionprospectplaza.com. at (212) 306‑6614. The inclusion of any advertisement in this Journal does not constitute any endorsement by the Housing Authority of the advertiser or its to eliminate debt, manage her monthly budget products or services or any other representation by the Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. The Housing Authority Journal October 2012 3

 continued from page 1 NYCHA Receives Additional $44 Million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Equity Rehabilitation New NYCHA Efforts Will Work to Date has Benefitted More Than 20,000 Families Citywide Generate Revenue YCHA received an additional of thousands of NYCHA families Another goal from Plan N$44 million in low-income residing in formerly unfunded NYCHA is to work with partners housing tax credit equity from the City and State developments,” to ensure the future of public successful completion of reha- said NYCHA Chairman John housing. A new advisory com- bilitation work at the first four tax B. Rhea. “This groundbreaking mittee, called “New Yorkers for credit projects. The rehabilitation initiative continues to provide NYCHA,” will solicit ideas from work included replacement of hundreds of millions of dollars for City residents who want to get roofs, façade repairs, major eleva- capital rehabilitation and operat- involved in supporting NYCHA. tor modernizations and building ing expenses.” “We have to do something entrance upgrades. The money The purpose of Federalization different. The federal govern- comes from low-income hous- was to make necessary repairs to Part of the money NYCHA received from tax credits as part of the Federalization ment has been hurting us – we ing tax credit equity payments the 21 developments while also plan will be used for roof repairs. have one of the best public associated with the 2010 deal securing an additional $65-75 about $209 million of rehabilita- remaining three expected to be housing programs in the coun- that brought more than 11,000 million a year in recurring federal tion work at the 21 developments, complete by the end of 2012. try, but we have to fund it to units in 13 of the 21 former City operating and capital subsidies at benefitting more than 20,000 In addition to the $44 million, better address the maintenance and State developments under 13 of the sites. The majority of the families. At the 13 tax credit sites, NYCHA expects to receive and repairs backlog,” City NYCHA’s federal funding stream. equity payments can be received NYCHA also has funded approxi- approximately $156 million Council Member Domenic Rec- “Originally, this transaction only after rehabilitation projects mately $30 million in interior in additional tax-credit equity chia, Jr. told the Journal. “We represented a very creative way are completed and several post- repairs. Ten of the rehabilitation by the middle of 2013 once it can’t sit back – Chairman Rhea to help us address our fiscal completion milestones are met, projects that were funded with successfully fulfills its project is thinking outside the box and challenges, while helping us which is standard practice. low-income housing tax credit close-out requirements for the making things happen.” maintain and preserve the homes To date, NYCHA has funded equity are complete with the remaining projects.

Residents Show They Love Where Breukelen Houses Garden Has Creatures from the Land, Air…and Sea They Live By Saving Energy By Eric Deutsch len Houses in 1976, and started the s reported on in the May issue of This is the latest in a series of garden the next year after going to Athe Journal, NYCHA continued its Journal profiles of NYCHA’s resident a workshop NYCHA held for bud- efforts to improve the energy efficiency gardeners as part of the 50th year ding gardeners. She started out of its developments and reduce its of the Authority’s Gardening and by running a hose from her kitchen operating costs through a friendly Greening Program. sink, but was able to really expand competition among Chelsea Houses, eople walking by Anne Marie the garden after NYCHA allowed Chelsea Addition and Elliott Houses in PRameau’s garden at Breukelen her to connect to an outdoor faucet. Manhattan to see which development Houses might do a double-take Her efforts are noticed by her neigh- could reduce its energy consumption when they see something moving bors. “A lot of the kids really like it, by the greatest amount through resi- Residents of Chelsea Houses, Chelsea in the ground. But there is no cause they ask for seeds and stop to smell dent behavior change. The Chelsea- Addition and Elliott Houses in Manhattan for concern – it’s just the fish swim- the flowers. I give them a corner got help this summer to reduce energy Elliott Green Challenge took place consumption from members of the Green ming in the fish pond Ms. Rameau and tell them they can plant their from April to June. It was developed City Force, including, from left to right, installed. “It is so beautiful to see own,” Ms. Rameau said. and led by Green City Force (GCF) and Ronelle Grant (Beach 41 Street Houses), the blue sky above the garden, I Ms. Rameau shares the wealth their Corps Members, young NYCHA Norma Castro (Taft Houses), Christie Reyes wanted to add something to it,” with her neighbors, frequently giv- (Seward Park Extension), Lizzette Graham (Taft residents in training for careers in sus- Houses) and Melissa Ruiz (Vladeck Houses). Ms. Rameau said. “The squirrels ing them seeds and helping them tainability, in partnership with NYCHA’s run through it, the birds fly over it, I start their own gardens. She gets Green Agenda. energy, such as taking shorter showers thought, ‘Something is missing.’” the most enjoyment when she is “We are building relationships and turning off lights when not in use. She dug a hole in the ground and able to experience the tranquility of with a lot of people and we are doing Thanks to Google and Alcoa Founda- put in a 270-gallon fish tank, where her surroundings. “I have daffodils something for our planet,” said Chris- tion, who sponsored the Challenge, seven fish live, year-round. Making that are yellow, bachelor’s buttons tie Reyes, a GCF member from Seward residents received CFL light blubs, free sure the fish are well-fed and taken that are blue. It’s beautiful to see Park Extension in Manhattan. “It is very of charge, which use up to 75 per- care of are just part of the nurturing each flower have a butterfly or a important to me to know that our next cent less energy and last longer than Ms. Rameau provides to her garden, bee on top of them,” she said. generation is going to live in a safe regular light bulbs. The Green Chal- called Breukelen Sight Garden, People other than her neigh- environment.” lenge, which Corps Members assigned every other day. “I love nature,” she bors notice Ms. Rameau’s garden Chelsea Addition won with a the theme of “Love Where You Live,” said. “I plant one little seed and it – NYCHA chose it as the winner in decrease of 20 percent and will be aligned with NYCHA’s Green Agenda becomes big flowers and plants.” the citywide flower category for this recognized at a ceremony later this goals in both reducing greenhouse gas Ms. Rameau moved in to Breuke- year’s Garden and Greening Com- year; Chelsea’s decrease was eight emissions and creating a rich training petition. For the percent and Elliott’s was five percent, opportunity for the GCF members. full list of winners, for an overall average of 11 percent. “It’s more than just a bulb swap. see page 7. Nearly two-thirds of residents at the The tenants were very receptive to three developments participated. our program to lower NYCHA’s energy Anne Marie Rameau’s NYCHA performed meter readings for usage, and were willing to do their part garden at Breukelen Houses includes an several months to compare electricity to help preserve public housing and artificial fish pond that consumption from 2011 to 2012. protect their homes,” said GCF mem- she installed herself. Green City Force Corps Members ber Tysheen Fahie, a resident of Pink went door-to-door installing compact Houses in Brooklyn. “I enjoy what we’re fluorescent lamp (CFL) light bulbs doing, and I’m proud to say I’m a part and sharing tips with residents on of something very good for what they can do to save water and our community.” 4 October 2012 The Housing Authority Journal

The NYCHA Not Wanted List The Chief’s Corner SAFETY TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN from the NYPD Below is a partial list of names of individuals who have been excluded permanently from NYCHA’s public housing develop- • Trick-or-treaters always • Emergency identification ments. This list keeps residents informed of the Authority’s ongo- should have adult supervi- information should be placed ing efforts to improve the quality of life for New Yorkers in public sion, even if they are travel- discreetly inside clothing of housing and to allow for the peaceful and safe use of its facilities. ing in a group of friends. small children, in case of ac- The full list can be viewed at on.nyc.gov/nychanotwanted. The • An adult always should cidental separation. following are the people, with their former addresses, excluded examine Halloween treats • Avoid having children wear as of May 9 through June 6, 2012. before children eat them. their names outwardly on Housing Bureau Police Never eat open or un- clothing or jewelry which may Chief Joanne Jaffe Prohibited as of May 9, 2012 wrapped Halloween foods. allow a stranger to call them there is evidence that it may Nayquan Garden Douglass Houses, 870 Columbus Avenue, Apt. 5H, Manhattan • Costumes should be flame- by name and appear to have been tampered with, Mikel Paden Pink Houses, 1307 Loring Avenue, Apt. 6E, Brooklyn retardant and should allow know them. or it has a strange taste, or if children to walk freely with- • As always, children should be a child feels sick, parents or Prohibited as of May 16, 2012 out tripping. cautioned to avoid strangers, guardians can call the NYC Lenny Bovan aka Lenny Bovian Lafayette Gardens Houses, 433 Lafay- • Children’s ability to see, hear as well as poorly-lit areas and Health Department’s Poison ette Avenue, Apt. 4F, Brooklyn and move should not be homes of people they do Control Center. The Poison Edward Capers Butler Houses, 1330 Webster Avenue, Apt. 11F, Bronx impaired by unwieldy masks. not know. Control Center is open 24 Curtis Carter Lafayette Gardens Houses, 415 Lafayette Avenue, Apt. • Make certain that any face • Halloween treats only should hours a day, 365 days of the 12G, Brooklyn paint or make-up used on be consumed if they are pack- year, for emergencies and Lisa Gant Murphy Houses, 1091 Longfellow Avenue, Apt. 4J, Bronx skin or costumes is non-toxic. aged appropriately. Parents advice at (212) POISONS Kristen Hardy Saint Nicholas Houses, 212 West 129th Street, Apt. 8A, • Extra care should be taken can help protect their children (764-7667), (212) VENENOS Manhattan (836-3667) for Spanish lan- Jamel Jordan Marcy Houses, 562 Park Avenue, Apt. 2D, Brooklyn on streets and at crossings, by making sure that treats Daniel Martinez University Avenue Rehab Houses, 1927 University especially at dusk and are wrapped in their original, guage speakers, or Avenue, Apt. 5F, Bronx after dark. unbroken packages – no (212) 689-9014 for TDD Charlie Ramos Campos Plaza II Houses, 612 East 14th Street, Apt. • Children should carry a flash- loose candy, open glasses or users. The National toll free 14A, Manhattan light and wear reflective or bottles, fresh fruit or home- number, 1-800-222-1222, bright colored clothing made goods. connects to the nearest poi- Prohibited as of May 23, 2012 at night. If after eating a Halloween treat son control center. Lamar Iverson Coney Island/Sites 4 Houses, 2950 West 35th Street, Apt. 1012, Brooklyn Ronald Mack Forest Houses, 750 East 166th Street, Apt. 1C, Bronx IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, DIAL 911 Prohibited as of May 30, 2012 (NON-EMERGENCY, DIAL 311) John Bonilla aka John Ferrer Mill Brook Houses, 620 East 137th Help us fight terrorism, report suspicious activity to the Street, Apt. 11C, Bronx William Brooks Mill Brook Houses, 620 East 137th Street, Apt. 11F, COUNTER TERRORISM HOTLINE: Bronx 1-888-NYC-SAFE (1-888-692-7233) Michael Dukes aka Amos Dukes West Brighton Houses, 778 Henderson Avenue, Apt. 7G, Staten Island Barrington Grant Queensbridge South Houses, 41-06 Vernon Boule- vard, Apt. 4B, Queens Raul Rosado University Avenue Rehab Houses, 1895 University Manhattan Financial Empowerment Avenue, Apt. 6D, Bronx Centers Help with Financial Stability Prohibited as of June 6, 2012 hen Myrna Arias, a information from the credit create a financial plan that makes Rafael Davilla Red Hook West Houses, 505 Columbia Street, Apt. 4B, Manhattanville Houses report, establish or improve sense,” said Milly DuBouchet, Brooklyn W resident for more than 20 years, credit, deal with debt collec- Financial Counselor at the Walter McNatt Red Hook East Houses, 16 Mill Street, Apt. 4B, received a flyer in the mail tors, deal with identity theft and Manhattanville Houses Financial Brooklyn about the Financial Empower- create a budget. The goal is to Empowerment Center. Reinaldo Medina Mill Brook Houses, 530 East 137th Street, Apt. 21, Bronx ment Center at the Manhat- make sure residents have the Ms. Arias feels that Financial Terrell Ortiz Lafayette Houses, 470 De Kalb Avenue, Apt. 2F, Brooklyn tanville Community Center, she support they need to become Empowerment Centers are a Jason Velez Douglass Houses, 875 Columbus Avenue, Apt. 7H, knew it was the opportunity for financially stable and secure in great resource for seniors. “Es- Manhattan her. “I was struggling with the the future. pecially for seniors that would transition into retirement and a NYCHA’s new outcome-driven rather not eat than not pay their fixed income,” she said. “I was resident economic opportunity bills. Or people that cut their so happy there was a Financial platform — the Zone Model — medicines in half in order to pay New Location for NYCHA Empowerment Center so close focuses on using service co- their bills,” she said. Department of Equal to home, where I raised my ordination, partnerships, local NYCHA worked with the DCA son. I have recommended it to resources and NYCHA resources and Neighborhood Trust Finan- Opportunity my friends that have recently to support increasing residents’ cial Partners to bring the new YCHA’s Department of Equal Opportunity (DEO) is in a retired, their incomes have de- income and assets. A key com- Financial Empowerment Center Nnew office location. The office now is at 250 Broadway, creased and they are struggling ponent of the Zone Model is col- to the Manhattanville Commu- 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10007. To provide continuity of service, to adjust.” laborating with various Economic nity Center, where services are e-mail addresses and telephone numbers for all DEO The City’s Financial Empow- Opportunity Service Providers available to all NYCHA residents staff remain the same: erment Centers offer free and like the City’s Financial Empow- by appointment. It is open on • Telephone (212) 306-4468 confidential one-on-one profes- erment Centers operated by the Wednesdays and Thursdays from • TTY (212) 306-4845 sional financial counseling in New York City Department of 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To make • Fax (212) 306-4439 multiple languages. A financial Consumer Affairs (DCA) across an appointment at any of the Residents seeking assistance in a DEO matter may visit the counselor can help residents the five boroughs. “These days, more than 25 Financial Empow- office from Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. access and review their free a lot of people are struggling to erment Centers throughout the credit report, remove incorrect stay afloat. We help our clients City, residents can call 311. The Housing Authority Journal October 2012 5

NYCHA Seniors Perform at 35th American Diabetes Association Expo Annual Senior Show he American Diabetes Association’s ‘Diabetes Expo’ YCHA’s 35th Annual Tfeatures free health screenings, cooking demonstra- NSenior Show, “Ageless,” tions, product exhibits and information on diabetes was a musical comedy about prevention and management. There will be activities for the powerlessness of grow- all ages. Admission is FREE. For more information call ing older. But hilarity ensues 1-888-342-2383, extension 3435. The expo is on as the seniors, in their own Saturday, November 3, from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at the quirky way, deal with the dif- Jacob Javits Convention Center at 655 West 34th Street ferent issues that threaten to in Manhattan. steal their zest for life. “The senior show is a chance for a lot of seniors who usually In Memoriam: Phyllis Gonzalez don’t get to go anywhere to what their condition,” said Lois run by NYCHA’s Department hyllis Gonzalez, the Resident Association President at get out of their apartments Credle, from Pink Houses in of Community Programs and PChelsea-Elliott Houses, passed away on September 12. and socialize, no matter Brooklyn. The senior show is Development. Ms. Gonzalez, (front left) was on hand to celebrate her development’s 65th anniversary earlier this year. Joining her were Resident Association 2nd Vice President Margaret Toole (front right), NYCHA Board Member Victor Gonzalez (rear, third from left) and development and Borough staff.

It’s Heating Season! October 1 – May 31 s required by New York City law, tenants must be provided Awith a minimum level of heat during heating season. Between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., the indoor heat must be at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit whenever the outdoor tempera- ture is less than 55 degrees. NYCHA Seniors Learn About “Money Matters” Between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., the indoor heat must be at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit whenever the outdoor tempera- at Annual Benefit and Entitlement Fair ture is less than 40 degrees. By Heidi Morales Here are some tips to keep your apartment warmer during nder bright sunny skies and a breeze that that changed before March,” said Mrs. Hardy. heating season, and reduce utility costs. Usignaled the beginning of fall, 1,800 senior Other workshops provided useful information ffKeep windows closed NYCHA residents came together at the Authority’s about ways seniors can protect themselves from ffOpen curtains to let the sun provide heat 8th Annual Senior Benefit and Entitlement Fair at identity theft, considered the fastest growing ffKeep radiator areas clear Riverbank State Park in Manhattan on September crime nationwide. The event also included hands- ffSeal leaks (Tenants who think they have an air leak and 20. In addition to its traditional focus on health, on technology demonstrations of computers and do not how to fix it can call the Customer Contact Center this year’s fair placed special emphasis on manag- computer tablets, help with understanding and at 718-707-7771.) ing finances, including preparing for the upcom- enrolling in Medicare savings plans, free flu shots ffUse blankets ing elimination of paper checks for the delivery of and information on food and nutrition. ffDress warm while inside federal benefits such as Social Security. Iraida de la Paz from Gowanus Houses in As part of the theme “Money Matters,” NYCHA Brooklyn made use of the free health screenings and its partners assisted seniors in making the to her benefit. “I got my blood pressure checked switch to electronic payments. Jackson Houses and I thought I was fine because I took my pills, (Bronx) resident Geraldine Hardy, 73 years old, said but it was high and I didn’t know it,” she said. she was excited about the knowledge she gained The goal of the fair is to educate and em- about banking and the changes from the Social power NYCHA seniors to make informed choices Security Administration. “I’m on SSI and I get paper about health care and finances that can improve checks and I learned how important it is to have their quality of life.

NYCHA seniors get nutrition tips at the 8th Annual Senior Benefit and Entitlement Fair at Riverbank State Park in Manhattan on September 20, 2012. 6 October 2012 The Housing Authority Journal

NYCHA Awards 15 Residents NYCHA joins DYCD, DOE and the Brooklyn CUNY Scholarships By Brent Grier Nets for “Dads Take Your Children to his year’s class of NYCHA- College, said she also had TCUNY Resident Scholar- trouble getting started on her School Day” ship winners made the most essay. “It was hard being so By Zodet Negrón of an opportunity to receive open and talking about my par- YCHA Chairman John B. assistance in pursuit of higher ents’ struggles and what they’ve NRhea joined New York education. The program awards been through throughout life,” City Department of Youth and $1,000 scholarships annually she said, noting that they always Community Development to eligible residents who are have been there for her ever Commissioner Jeanne Mull- enrolled at City University of since the family came to the grav, New York City Depart- New York (CUNY) colleges. United States from Bangladesh. ment of Education Chancellor Award recipients can use the aid This year’s scholarships were Dennis Walcott, Brooklyn Nets towards tuition, books or other funded in part by grants from players Deron Williams, Keith education-related expenses. the non-profit organization Bogans and Jerry Stackhouse NYCHA residents have to Women in Housing and Finance, and around 150 dads and their write an essay as part of the ap- Inc., and New York City Coun- kids on their morning walk to plication process, and Mariner’s cil Members Robert Jackson school to celebrate Dads Take Fathers and sons walk to school together in Brooklyn on September 20, 2012, Harbor (Staten Island) resident and Letitia James. City Council Your Children to School Day as part of Dads Take Your Children to School Day. Rodolfo Martinez said writing Member Gale Brewer also con- on September 20. The event, the school. “I didn’t have my fa- “We know that kids who his essay was therapeutic. “At tributed funds to the Scholarship hosted by DYCD and Univer- ther growing up so it’s good that have a dad involved in their first it was hard, but eventually Program, which will be applied sity Settlement Society of New I can take my kids to school,” lives are two times less likely to I decided to write about my ex- next year. “For better or worse, it York, highlighted the impor- said Antonio Hodges, a father drop out of school,” said Chair- periences being homeless,” said takes money to pursue the best tance of fathers being involved of six with two children currently man Rhea. “Today, we actively the City College attendee, who educations this country has to in their children’s lives. going to P.S. 67. “I enjoy taking support fathers in their role and after graduating with a major in offer,” NYCHA Chairman John Dozens of children walked my children to school.” responsibility of seeing their political science, hopes to go to B. Rhea told the scholarship win- along Myrtle Avenue past His daughter, Shaun’ji, a kids off to school – the place law school. “NYCHA gave me a ners. “We want to do our part the Ingersoll Houses – home fourth grader, always looks where a large part of their de- home to live in and now is help- to make it available to you, but to many of them – with their forward to it as well. “I talk to my velopment will take place and ing me pay for school.” you’re doing your part by put- proud dads holding their dad on my way to school. I like where they will begin to build a Misty Daiyan, a Queensbridge ting in the hard work.” hands and leading the way to it,” she said. foundation for future learning.” Houses (Queens) resident who In addition to Mr. Martinez studies accounting at Queens continued on page 7  The Housing Authority Journal October 2012 7

 continued from page 6 NYCHA Awards 15 Resi- For Smith RA VP, Age is Just a Number dents CUNY Scholarships By Heidi Morales and Ms. Daiyan, the 2012 onathan Gardenhire is living proof that being NYCHA-CUNY Resident Scholar- Jyoung or inexperienced does not mean some- ship winners are Tiffany Almonte one cannot make a difference in their community. (Douglass Houses/York College); The 19-year-old is the Vice President of the Smith Alexandria Carr (Armstrong Talha Khan, a resident of Houses (Manhattan) Resident Association (RA). Houses/City College of NY); Eb- Queensbridge Houses and student He was hand-picked by RA President Aixa Torres at City College, stands with his ony Johnson (Ingersoll Houses/ mother at the annual NYCHA-CUNY to run for the spot because of his community in- Hunter College); Talha Khan Resident Scholarship Program Awards volvement, academic accomplishments and knack (Queensbridge Houses/Queens Ceremony on September 20, 2012. for communicating with residents of all ages. College); Danique Love-Billy Justice); Lygia A. Sukie (Malboro At the meeting when Mr. Gardenhire was (Grant Houses/Lehman College); Houses/Borough of Manhattan elected, he spoke about the importance of having Kayla L. Marte (Parkside Houses/ Community College); Melinda representation for the development’s youth on the City College of NY); Tonisha Thompkins-Perez (Park Rock RA Board to address their concerns. “What sur- Reid (Marcus Garvey Houses/ Rehab/Kingsborough Commu- prises me is how surprised people are when they LaGuardia Community College); nity College); Heriberto Vega meet me because I’m so young,” he said. “They Syeda T. Shume (Polo Grounds (Amsterdam Houses/John Jay are surprised to see that I’m 19 and sitting on the Jonathan Gardenhire, Resident Association Vice President at Towers/Hunter College); Jazmyn School for Justice); and Ning Ye Board and that I’m actually interested.” Smith Houses in Manhattan, stands with City Council Member L. Smith (Ravenswood Houses/ (Gowanus Houses/Borough of Mr. Gardenhire credits his mother for his com- Margaret Chin and U.S. Congress Member Nydia Velazquez. John Jay College for Criminal Manhattan Community College). munity activism and overall focus in bettering him- self. “I want to make sure that everyone is taking represents professionals in the fashion industry; advantage of every single facility and opportunity works part-time selling modern housewares and that’s out there, because not everyone has the furniture; and in his spare time, likes to go to the same foundation and family that I have,” he said. beach and hang out with friends. His career goal is “Smith Houses is a community where everyone to be a creative director at an agency that rep- cares about each other and with the community- resents photographers or at a high-end fashion oriented residents, together, we can all create an magazine. But no matter where life will take him, environment that’s welcoming and empowering.” Mr. Gardenhire will stay focused on his neighbors. Serving as Vice President of the RA is just one “Being Vice President, I want to make sure that if of many activities for Mr. Gardenhire. He stud- I get really successful that I can still do the same ies photography on a full scholarship at Parsons community outreach and make sure that there’s School of Design; interns at an agency that still a strong sense of community all over,” he said.

NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea and Kars 4 Kids volunteers pass out backpacks 2012 NYCHA to NYCHA youth at Baisley Park Houses in Queens on August 30, 2012. Garden and Greening NYCHA Joins Council Competition Awards Member Wills and elow is a list of all First Prize winners in Kars4Kids to Help Youth Beach category. For the full list that includes Prepare for the School Year Second Prize, Third Prize and Honorable Mention winners, please go to NYCHA’s “Liberty Garden” at Throggs Neck Houses won the By Ryan Dicovitsky website at www.nyc.gov/nycha. citywide theme category. ust days before the start of the new school year, NYCHA CITYWIDE FLOWER MANHATTAN THEME BROOKLYN EAST JChairman John B. Rhea and Authority staff appeared at the Breukelen Sight Garden, Mrs. Potts’ Garden, VEGETABLE Baisley Park and South Jamaica Houses to provide school sup- Breukelen Houses Isaacs Houses Green Thumb Garden, plies to local children. Partnering with City Council Member CITYWIDE VEGETABLE BROOKLYN SOUTH FLOWER Pink Houses Ruben Wills and the nonprofit Kars4Kids on August 30, more Bright Light Vegetable Morning Glory Garden, QUEENS FLOWER than 3,000 backpacks were distributed. The backpacks were Garden, Gun Hill Houses Breukelen Houses Zodiac Garden, South donated by Kars4Kids. CITYWIDE THEME BROOKLYN SOUTH Jamaica Houses “It’s nice that they are doing this in our community and it’s Liberty Garden, VEGETABLE QUEENS VEGETABLE very helpful at this time for the children going back to school. Throggs Neck Houses Green House Garden, Park Jong Won’s Vegetable Not all parents can afford it,” said Baisley Park Houses resident BRONX FLOWER Marlboro Houses Garden, Beach 41st Street Paula Ellis. Shady Flower Garden, Pelham BROOKLYN SOUTH THEME Houses As Chairman Rhea spoke to residents, he emphasized the Parkway Community Center Woman of God Garden, QUEENS THEME importance of a good education and proper resources. “Our BRONX VEGETABLE Carey Gardens Horizon #1-Horizon #2-Horizon #3 Garden, primary mission at NYCHA is to provide safe, quality, afford- Marie’s Garden, Union BROOKLYN WEST FLOWER Shelton House able housing to New Yorkers. For a student, a backpack serves Avenue Consolidation The Garden of Faith, Roosevelt Houses STATEN ISLAND FLOWER sort of the same purpose as a home – it’s a place to house the BRONX THEME Twinkle, Twinkle Little Stars BROOKLYN WEST VEGETABLE Flowers of Happiness tools needed to achieve, a place to keep dreams and ambi- Garden, New Lane Shores tions,” he said. “This investment goes beyond the material. Garden, Union Avenue Yue Mei Li’s Vegetable Garden, Consolidation Ingersoll Houses STATEN ISLAND It’s more than a backpack. It’s about giving every child the op- VEGETABLE portunity and the tools to succeed.” MANHATTAN FLOWER BROOKLYN WEST THEME Bernadet’s Garden, Ebony’s Garden, Marcy Houses Pacific Lane Garden, Some younger residents were happy to have new supplies. New Lane Shores Elliot Houses BROOKLYN EAST FLOWER Starmel Williams, a young Baisley Park resident, said he would STATEN ISLAND THEME MANHATTAN VEGETABLE Palmetto’s Senior’s Paradise use his backpack to carry fruit before his mother, Patricia Wil- Go Green New York Garden, Garden, Palmetto Gardens Raising the Stakes Garden, liams, quickly interjected. “And homework,” she added. Taft Houses Senior Center New Lane Shores 8 October 2012 The Housing Authority Journal

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Register Your Pet, leading to costly litters of kittens Farragut Houses Residents Celebrate Have Them Examined or puppies. Preventing unwanted and Spayed and litters of animals helps combat Opening of Laundry Facilities Neutered! New York City’s overpopulation By Ryan Dicovitsky of stray animals, and the eutha- s Mary Andrews, President the new laundry room facilities the room also has sinks, tables, hether you are considering nasia that occurs as a result. Aof the Farragut Houses which were about to be unveiled. counters and laundry carts. Wtaking in a new dog or cat Spaying and neutering also Resident Association, stepped Second, Ms. Andrews called for “We’ve been waiting a long or already own one, it is impor- helps your pet. The procedure up to the ribbon obstructing the respect and proper treatment of time. We have a lot of seniors, tant to keep in mind your respon- helps prevent cancer, infections basement entrance at 201 Sands the machines. “This is for you,” and it’s very difficult for them sibilities as a resident of NYCHA. and aggressive behaviors, increas- Street in Brooklyn, she had two Ms. Andrews proclaimed as she to get to a laundromat,” said In order to fulfill the terms of ing your pet’s chances of a long requests for the residents gath- cut the ribbon. resident Sarah Jacocks at the your lease, make sure you are and healthy life. After your pet has ered behind her. First, she asked Ten washing machines and laundry room re-opening cer- following some basic NYCHA undergone the procedure, it will that they enjoy and make use of 10 dryers sit in neat rows, and emony on September 6. guidelines to have your dog or be less likely to spray unpleasant NYCHA Board Member Vic- cat registered with NYCHA and smelling urine in your home or act tor Gonzalez said the room pro- examined by a veterinarian. aggressively toward others. vides a laundry list of benefits First, make sure that your dog NYCHA residents are entitled for residents. “It’s safer. Security or cat is allowed to live with you to assistance with the financial will be better because it’s within in your apartment. Every dog and cost of spaying and neutering. the development,” he said. cats must be registered with your The ASPCA of NYC offers mo- “People know each other, they property management office. All bile clinics in all five boroughs to can come in groups. And it’s dogs registered after February 1, spay and neuter cats and dogs, not just washing your clothes. 2010, must weigh no more than and NYCHA residents pay only It’s also the camaraderie, a little 25 pounds. Several breeds, either $5 with documented proof of ‘let’s get together and talk and full or mixed, are prohibited, public housing residence. Be make plans.’” including Doberman Pincher, Pit sure to take advantage of this The Farragut laundry room Bull and Rottweiler. Every dog program, for the benefit of both re-opening is part of a larger, must wear two tags on a collar you and your pets. Authority-wide effort to pro- around its neck – its NYC De- To learn more about the vide more laundry facilities to partment of Health and Mental ASPCA’s mobile program, call residents as part of the Plan Hygiene metal license tag, and 877-SPAY-NYC or go to www. Farragut Houses resident Mary Wilks does her laundry shortly after the Brooklyn NYCHA goal to make better ef- its NYCHA metal registration tag. aspca.org/aspca-nyc/mobile development’s new laundry room opened on September 6, 2012. forts to meet residents’ needs. Next, make sure your pet is clinic. For other information healthy. Every dog or cat must be about veterinarians, adoptions, examined by a veterinarian who and medical procedures for must certify that the dog has a your pets, contact Animal Care Send Your Special Holiday NYC Department of Health and and Control of New York City at Mental Hygiene license, that the 212-876-7770 x.4303 or go to Greetings – in the Journal! dog or cat has been spayed or www.nycacc.org. eeling joyous about the coming holiday season? Take the opportunity neutered, and that the dog or cat If a resident does not comply Fto show someone you care with Special Thoughts of Holiday Cheer! has a current rabies vaccination. with NYCHA’s pet policy, serious Special thoughts now are being accepted for the December issue of These requirements also apply to consequences can result. An the Journal. To submit Special Holiday Greetings that will appear in the service animals. unregistered cat or dog consti- December issue, please contact NYCHA’s Marketing Agents by phone at Spaying and neutering helps tutes a breach of rules. Failure 212-306-6616 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Pay as little NYCHA. If a dog or cat has not to comply with the pet rules can as $20 for 20 words (four lines); additional lines are $5 each. The Market- been spayed or neutered it is lead to follow-up lease enforce- ing Department reserves the right to edit submissions for clarity, good more likely to seek out a mate, ment action. taste, etc. The deadline for submissions is November 13. Research Study NYCHA Residents Tackle Football Rules, Life The Albert Einstein College of Medicine Challenges Head-On IS NOW RECRUITING FOR A RESEARCH STUDY OF By Ryan Dicovitsky and Brent Grier TREATMENT FOR COCAINE DEPENDENCE or the third year in a row, the NYCHA-NFL FOfficiating Academy trained NYCHA residents We are looking for individuals aged 18-65, who how to be football referees, while also helping are addicted to cocaine and have used opioids them to develop their life skills. Once partici- (such as heroin, codeine, oxycontin, vicodin) in pants graduate, they can take the Public Schools the past year, and would like no-cost treatment. Athletic League certification exam, which would allow them to officiate in youth leagues and high ¾ This study is 8 weeks long; in-clinic visits three times per week school games. “The most interesting thing is be- ¾ Participation is voluntary and of no cost to you ing on the field, actually just learning the things I ¾ Compensation will be provided for your time and travel costs. don’t know,” said Calvin Thompson, a resident of Kingsborough Houses in Brooklyn. The program At the graduation ceremony for the NYCHA-NFL Officiating Please call Andrea or Matthew is a partnership between NYCHA and the Na- Academy on August 29, 2012, participants got to check out For more information. the National Football League’s “Control Room,” where the tional Football League. league records their games so that every single play can be At the graduation ceremony on August 29, reviewed for accuracy. (347) 493-8555 held at the NFL’s offices in Manhattan, Ocean Hill Apartments (Brooklyn) resident Troy Duncan, who for them now. I always used to grill the refs, but plays semi-pro football, expressed sympathy for now I don’t want players doing that to me so now the officials he has maligned in the past. “I feel I tell my teammates to stop,” he said. 10 October 2012 The Housing Authority Journal August Wilson. Photo © Dana Lixenberg.

THE PIANO LESSON

BY AUGUST WILSON

DIRECTED BY RUBEN SANTIAGO- HUDSON

In Pittsburgh’s Hill District in 1936, the Charles family battle each other over their shared legacy – an antique piano.

The fourth play of Wilson’s epic Century Cycle, Pulitzer Prize-winning The Piano Lesson is a August Wilson. Photo by David Cooper. stunning and moving drama of family, history, and survival.

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