NYCHA Western Queens Residents This Issue Get First New Credit Union in 30 Years VOL

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inside NYCHA Western Queens Residents this issue Get First New Credit Union in 30 Years VOL. 40 NO. 2 www.nyc.gov/nycha It’s been a long time coming! For the past five years the collective focus in Western Queens has been on giving public housing residents the opportunity and support to set and reach their financial goals. This vision finally mate- rialized on Monday, April 26th, when under a shower of rain and well wishes the East River Development Alliance (ERDA) JournalFounder and President Bishop Mitchell G. Taylor, joined by new y ork city housing authority Mayor Michael Bloomberg and New York City Housing The Mayor’s Message Authority (NYCHA) Chairman, John B. Rhea, and a multitude new Family Justice center serving of elected officials, community activists, local business owners your needs and NYCHA residents from nearby developments, celebrated » read more on page 2 the opening and ribbon cutting of the ERDA Federal Credit Union (ERDA FCU). (l-r) Bishop Mitchell G. Taylor, resident Theresa Jackson and Chairman Rhea The ERDA FCU is the first credit union to be chartered in are the first shareholders in ERDA’s Federal Credit Union. New York City in a decade, and the first new credit union in residents in Queens who took responsibility for their financial Queens in 30 years. In a neighborhood where the majority well-being.” of residents rely on check cashing establishments for most Mayor Bloomberg, who is a staunch supporter of public of their financial transactions, the ERDA FCU not only aims housing and who has introduced many citywide initiatives to to instituteNew a change York in the way City people do bankingHousing but also helpAuthority New Yorkers become financially self-sufficient, praised promote ownership and savings. ERDA’s efforts and proclaimed that “it is a great day for “This credit union will serve as an anchor in this community people of Western Queens. This is your credit union. You and will give people financial freedom so they can reach their have worked hard for it and now it will work hard for you,” the Chair’s Message dreams,” said Bishop Taylor. “This was built by public housing continued on page 2 as i’ve said many times beFore, NYCHA residents are the Authority’s most important partner.NYCHA » read more on page 3 Federalization Finalized www.nyc.gov/nycha VOL. 40 NO. 2 NYCHA closes n the Rutgers Houses JournalCommunity Center, on an I historic deal, early New York morning, explains plan residents, reporters, community particulars to advocates and city planners filed into the room, each residents readying for the news. The announcement, made the morning of March 15th by NYCHA Chairman John B. NyCha TaleNT show hiTs The Rhea, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Governor David A. ToP 40 » read more on page 9 (l-r) Chairman Rhea, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan, HUD Director of the Paterson, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan, U.S. Senator Office of Public Housing Mirza Negron Morales, and President of the Citywide Charles Schumer, Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, Council of Presidents Reginald Bowman sign federalization agreement. nycha announces its saFety Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and a delegation of preserving all of New York City’s public housing. & security Task Force... New York City and State officials, was for “the single “Today we are finalizing an agreement that will » read more on page 4 most important day for the preservation of public dramatically improve the quality of life for more than housing in New York’s, and maybe even the nation’s, 400,000 residents of public housing,” Mayor Bloomberg fast facts history,” said Secretary Donovan. told the assembled audience. NYCHA’s 21 previously unfunded State and City Since the intense effort to federalize the 21 Queensbridge houses in built developments and their more than 46,000 developments through a Mixed-Finance Modernization Queens are the largest public residents, were they a stand-alone entity, would rank Plan, the largest in American history, began six housing development in the third in size, behind NYCHA and Chicago. By securing months ago, Chairman Rhea has stressed that the on-going federal capital and operating subsidies for accomplishment is a testament to three principles: country. those developments, as well as laying the groundwork Preservation, Innovation, and Collaboration. south beach houses on for additional funding down the road, the Authority “Federalization tells a story of collaboration and staten island were completed stopped the siphoning of funds from NYCHA’s other innovation to ensure public housing endures for the march 20th, 1950. 313 developments and concluded the first phase of a families of New York,” Chairman Rhea said in a recent

major effort toward addressing its budget deficit and address. continued on page 4 2 April / May 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

Message from the Mayor The New Family Justice Center — Serving Your Needs

In a recent address, NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea attributed the Housing by immigration attorneys who can help Authority’s latest successes — such as finding a creative way to attract more victims apply for federal remedies under federal funds — to doing things the “old fashioned, New York way: by work- the Violence Against Women Act. The ing together.” I couldn’t agree more. attorneys have already assisted more than Throughout our City’s history, we New Yorkers have defied the odds and 2,500 victims with immigration concerns accomplished great things by joining forces and doing together what would and applications for visas and permanent be impossible to do alone. That dedication to the power of teamwork has legal status. Clients also have the opportunity to meet with Family Court attor- never been more alive than it is right now. neys who can assist them with child support and custody proceedings. For instance, we are continuing to provide assistance and resources to vic- At the centers, clients can participate in programs that include English as tims of domestic violence. Over the past eight years, our efforts to combat a Second Language, job readiness, résumé preparation, and financial literacy domestic violence have helped cut family related homicides by 20 percent. workshops. The centers also offer: counseling for victims; children’s counsel- But we’re not stopping there. ing for those who witness violence; safety planning; assistance with filing po- Just last month, Commissioner Jimenez of the Mayor’s Office to Com- lice and probation reports; services for the elderly and the disabled, and help bat Domestic Violence and I opened the Bronx Family Justice Center. The with affordable housing and public benefits assistance. The Bronx center’s Bronx center is part of our overall effort to reduce domestic violence and pro- staff offers services in 15 languages while interpretation services are also vide comprehensive services to victims. Created in partnership with Bronx available in over 150 other languages. District Attorney Robert Johnson, the new center brings together dedicated In New York every day we renew our commitment to making ours the saf- domestic violence prosecutors, civil attorneys, and social service providers est, strongest city anywhere in the world. By working together, we can cre- under one roof to help victims of domestic violence and their families. ate a brighter future for our children and our children’s children. The City’s first two Family Justice Centers, in Downtown Brooklyn and Kew Gardens, Queens, have had more than 80,000 visits to date — that’s more than 130 visits a day. These centers provide, among other things, legal services Michael R. Bloomberg

NYCHA Western Queens Residents continued from page 1 Houses resident Theresa Jackson Mayor added before ending his training and financial literacy one who was the very first. congratulatory remarks by saying of the Authority’s major focuses, In addition to offering resi- that just like rain at a wedding proudly smiled and said while dents basic financial services UPDATE means good luck, “I guarantee it looking at the crowd and the to save and borrow, the ERDA y now all NYCHA residents have means a good credit union.” modest store front in front of him Federal Credit Union, a coopera- Breceived the Census form. If you The Mayor also vowed to that now holds the key to a lot of tive financial institution, will give did not complete your Census form and mail it back by April continue fighting in Albany to residents’ future that “this exem- its members ownership stake. 19th, Census takers will come to your door beginning in May, secure $25 million to invest in plifies all that ERDA stands for: “This is a door opener for me,” 2010. They may return up to six times to the same household credit unions for other New York giving resources to families to said Ms. Jackson. “I’m looking to in an attempt to talk with someone in the apartment. They will City neighborhoods. take control of their lives.” open a new salon and this may never ask to enter your home, and they will have an Official NYCHA Chairman Rhea, who Dozens of attendees lined work to my advantage.” Census Bureau I.D. They will ask basic information about each considers enhancing economic up to open their own accounts The ERDA Federal Credit person living in the apartment such as: name, date of birth, sex, prospects for residents by at the ERDA FCU including Union will primarily serve how many people live with you, each person’s ethnicity and race. creating opportunities for jobs, Chairman Rhea and Ravenswood NYCHA residents from Western Census takers will not ask your income or Social Security number, Queens, including residents of or immigration status. When you answer the census form ques- new york city housing authority Astoria, Queensbridge, Ravens- tions for your entire household, the census taker can record the 76years of Public Housing wood and Woodside Houses. results for submission to the Census Bureau. NYCHA in New York City NYCHA Journal Queensbridge Houses alone It is important to inform the Census takers of ALL people who is the largest public housing are living with you, whether or not they are on the lease. Any infor- ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 development in the country with mation you provide on your Census form will in no way affect your

PublishedVOL. 40 NO. 2 monthly by the New York City Housing Authority www.nyc.gov/nycha 3,147 apartments serving a total lease. Remember, all information that is gathered is confidential. Department of Communications 250 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10007 population of 6,731. NYCHA residents received a letter from Chairman John B. JournalTel (212) 306-3322 • Fax (212) 577-1358 new y ork city housing authority The credit union is located Rhea assuring them that the form is strictly confidential and the nyc.gov/nycha across from Queensbridge information in it is NOT shared with any other government entity, Michael R. Bloomberg ...... Mayor Houses at 13-03B 40th Avenue including the New York City Housing Authority. Census informa- John B. Rhea ...... Chair Earl Andrews, Jr...... Vice‑Chair in Long Island City, and will serve tion remains confidential for up to 72 years. All Census Bureau Margarita López ...... BoardNew York City Housing Authority Member approximately 323,000 low- staff take a lifetime oath that they will not share any information Vilma Huertas ...... Secretary Michael Kelly ...... General Manager income residents in the area of they receive with any other entity. If they break this oath, they can Lynn Godfrey ...... Chief Communications Officer NYCHA Western Queens. be fined up to $250,000 and face a five-year prison sentence. Sheila Stainback ...... Communications Officer/Editor www.nyc.gov/nycha JournalVOL. 40 NO. 2 Eric Deutsch……...... Editor ERDA is a non-profit The information you provide on the Census form will deter- Heidi Morales ...... Editor, Spanish Edition organization whose mission is to mine the amount of funding New York City will receive from the Howard Silver ...... Editor, NYCHA Bulletin Tischelle George ...... Online News Editor transform and improve New York federal government for affordable housing, education, health- Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza ...... Photography City public housing neighbor- care, job training, transportation and a host of other critical Christian Nwachukwu ...... Staff Writer hoods by providing residents programs within our community. The Census will also determine If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please call our marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue with the tools and opportunities how many elected representatives New York City will have in Development at (212) 306‑6614. The inclusion of any advertisement in this necessary for self-sufficiency and Congress and in the New York State legislature, as well as the Journal does not constitute any endorsement by the Hwousing Authority of the advertiser or its products or services or any other representation by economic mobility. number and size of City Council districts. the Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. The Housing Authority Journal April / May 2010 3 Message from the Chairman A One-Year Anniversary Over the past year, I have spoken from these of the 21 State and City built developments. It required daring, creativity, dedication, pages about my hopes for the New York City hard work, a lot of faith and a little luck. With a short window of opportunity and Housing Authority (NYCHA), the charges I the necessary coordination of many departments within NYCHA — as well as with received from Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg our partners in City, State and Federal government — we not only obligated the full when I assumed the role of Chairman, and $423 million we received from the 2009 American Reinvestment and Recovery Act the value I place — throughout my career, (Stimulus), but we also met HUD’s requirements to bring the 21 newly federalized but especially now — on partnerships and the developments on-going operating support and capital funding for desperately needed breakthroughs that can occur when people work together. As I’ve said many times modernization work. before, NYCHA residents are the Authority’s most important partner. And true to Federalization was possible because we laid a strong foundation by opening the the vital role you play in helping me, the Board and the 12,000 men and women lines of communication and strengthening existing relationships with our partners who work hard at serving the more than 600,000 people who count on NYCHA, and other key stakeholders, as well as forging new coalitions.But Federalization was you have stayed engaged, involved and invested in the achievements we’ve just the beginning.It will serve as a model for the large-scale collaborative innovations made together. NYCHA will spearhead as we move forward.That’s why I created the Office of I didn’t expect any less. That’s why soon after joining NYCHA I hosted several Public-Private Partnerships and recruited a City Hall veteran, Dawn Walker, to head town hall meetings, as well as a series of conversations with employees, with our effort.Dawn and her team have been working on several exciting initiatives to resident leaders, and with you. I knew that before we could begin to tackle the benefit residents that you’ll be hearing about soon. challenges NYCHA faced, I had to understand the concerns and hear the stories of You’ve already heard about a few of the Authority’s new initiatives.We’re the men and women at every level who are committed to public housing. Our charge launching a Charter School at the St. Nicholas Houses in a partnership with the is not to simply see that public housing in New York City survives — but to see that Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ).HCZ’s President and CEO Geoffrey Canada has been it thrives. That means that our plans for NYCHA, by definition, will be ambitious. hailed by everyone from the New York Times to President Barack Obama who called But it also means that we have the tools to achieve our goals because we will be him an education “pioneer.” able to count on everyone at the table to do their part to ensure NYCHA succeeds. We’ve joined forces with Habitat NYC and Habitat International to help the Nowhere was this commitment more evident than in the successful Federalization continued on page 6

SpeakingLecture Green SerieS YCHA began year emissions that threaten the of NYCHA’s eight VISTA Ntwo of its Speaking health of neighborhoods and volunteers who have orga- Green Lecture Series with the sustainability of the planet. nized Green Committees a lively panel discussion on In opening remarks, at 32 developments, where “Preserving Public Housing Chairman John B. Rhea residents encourage their through Low-Carbon Living,” acknowledged a “debt of neighbors to save energy by attended by public housing gratitude” to Commissioner modifying small daily habits residents, employees and Margarita López, NYCHA’s that can have profound envi- community members at the Environmental Coordinator ronmental consequences. Hudson Guild near Chelsea who, at the behest of Mayor Affirming the collec- Houses on April 22nd, the Michael R. Bloomberg, devel- tive effect that NYCHA’s 40th Anniversary of Earth Day. oped the Authority’s Green 400,000 residents can have Castle Hill residents plant flowers on Green Garden Day. The quarterly forums are Agenda, placing the agency at by “changing the way we designed to enlist resident the forefront of the city’s ambi- live our lives,” Commissioner and community support for tious goal to reduce green- López unveiled a residents’ NYCHA’s concerted efforts to house gases by 30 percent by “green guide” to saving Castle Hill cut spiraling utility costs that year 2030. energy, entitled The Power is deplete public housing funds, Chairman Rhea also recog- in Your Hands. The publica- Green Committee and reduce greenhouse gas nized the important work continued on page 8 Green Garden day

wenty children, teenagers and adults and senior TCastle Hill residents came out to volunteer at the Castle Hill Green Committee Day on April 17. The volunteers planted petunias, begonias, and dusty millers and other flowers. Throughout the day, the children in attendance started seeds with plastic cups and soil. They took the cups home with them and will put the

Chairman John B. Rhea (right) welcomes residents and members of the community to panel discussion moderated by plants in the garden once they sprout. Commissioner Margarita López, seated center, with (from left) YRG Sustainability Principal Lauren Yarmuth and Environmental Defense Fund Director Mary Barber. 4 April / May 2010 The Housing Authority Journal The NYCHA Not Wanted List Safety In this issue we continue publishing the names of individuals who have been permanently excluded from our public housing & developments. The purpose of this list is to keep residents Security Survey informed of the Housing Authority’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 of our facilities. What follows NYCHA Wants to Hear From You is a partial list of the people excluded after hearings were held t the New York City the Authority and the Task on December 30th, 2009 and January 6th and 13th, 2010. “Residents have to stay AHousing Authority, engaged to make sure Force concrete information, the security conversation which we will use to increase Prohibited as of December 30, 2009 our voices influence continues and NYCHA is security in the developments, Pedro Whitehead Case 8530/09 formerly associated with the these very important 5th fl., 1105 Teller Avenue, Claremont Consolidation Houses, determined to keep residents as well as work with members Brooklyn. at the table. As President of discussions.” of the NYPD to improve the John Smith Case 8625/09 formerly associated with the 6th fl, the Citywide Council of Presi- police officer-resident relation- 2925 West 27th Street, Surfside Gardens, Brooklyn. dents Reginald Bowman told resident voices on paper. ship,” Chairman Rhea said. Alton Stanley Case 8605/09 formerly associated with the 4th fl. the Journal, “Residents have The Authority mailed a four- The developments included 151 Jersey Street, Richmond Terrace Houses Staten Island. to stay engaged to make sure page survey developed by in the pilot program are: Brook- Leo Hall Case 8185/09 formerly associated with the 5th fl, 456 our voices influence these the newly formed Safety and lyn’s Van Dyke I, Van Dyke II, Richmond Terrace, Richmond Terrace Houses, Staten Island. very important discussions.” Security Task Force to 10,866 and Marcy Houses; Sedgwick, Sidney Wright Case 8288/09 formerly associated with the 2nd fl. NYCHA Chairman John B. households from 12 devel- West Tremont Avenue Sedgwick 713 E. 108th Street, Breukelen Houses, Brooklyn. Rhea, who has been meeting opments in a pilot program Avenue Area, Morris I, Morris Deborah Jordon Case 186/09 formerly associated with the 5th fl. with residents, resident to gauge resident concern II, and Pelham Parkway, each of 456 Richmond Terrace, Richmond Terrace Houses, Staten Island. leaders, New York Police regarding how safe they feel the Bronx; Manhattan’s Chelsea Tony Brown Case 186/09 formerly associated with the 5th fl. Department (NYPD) leaders in the developments, in the Houses and King Towers; 456 Richmond Terrace, Richmond Terrace Houses, Staten Island. and, importantly, NYPD larger community, and their Astoria Houses of Queens; and Antonio Reyes Case 5021/09 formerly associated with the 9th fl., Commissioner Raymond W. relationship with the NYPD. State Island’s Stapleton Houses. 230 E 102nd Street, Washington Lexington Houses, Manhattan. Kelly since last September, “This survey, and NYCHA The developments were Wasir Gardner Case 8660/09 formerly associated with the 2nd fl. now wants to get those residents’ responses, will give continued on page 8 30 Bush Street, Red Hook West Houses, Brooklyn. Zephaniah Brown Case 8570/09 formerly associated with the 11th fl., 890 E. 6th Street, Wald Houses, Manhattan. Federalization Finalized continued from page 1 The landmark measure approved by HUD The capital work, which NYCHA prioritized Prohibited as of January 6, 2010 brings 20,000 units — 11.3 percent of NYCHA’s and obligated in record time, will begin Hollis Hosear Case 941/07 formerly associated with the 16th Floor, 525 Jackson Avenue, Moore Houses, Bronx. total housing stock — into the federal public immediately and last up to two years, generating housing fold. The one-time opportunity arose almost 400 construction jobs throughout the city. Edward McRae Case 8667/09 formerly associated with the 3rd Floor, 1111 229th Street, Edenwald Houses, Bronx. through a provision in the 2009 American The Chairman, along with Vice Chairman Earl Edward Street Case 8736/09 formerly associated with the 7th Reinvestment and Recovery Act, better known Andrews, Jr., Commissioner Margarita López, Floor, 116-40 Guy R. Brewer, Baisley Park Houses. as the Stimulus Act, to qualify and preserve General Manager Michael Kelly and senior Isreal Guerrido Case 8713/09 formerly associated with the 8th the units as public housing through a mixed- NYCHA staff, has launched a series of town hall Floor, 383 E. 141st Street, Mott Haven Houses, Bronx. finance transaction that deeds them to a meetings to explain the details of federalization Jamel Smith Case 8759/09 formerly associated with the 6th Floor, public-private partnership co-owned and to NYCHA families. Chairman Rhea launched 791 Manor Rd., Berry/Todt Hill, Staten Island. managed by NYCHA. the initiative at Pace University the evening of Toshawn Edwards Case 8787/09 formerly associated with Federalization of 11,743 units immediately March 15th where he assured residents of the the3rd Floor, 553 Kingsborough 5th Walk, Kingsborough Houses, qualifies them for $65 to $75 million in promises NYCHA kept while constructing and Brooklyn. operating and capital subsidies annually from executing the federalization plan. Hector Casanova Case 8681/09 formerly associated with the 3rd Floor, 36 W. 9th Street, Red Hook East Houses, Brooklyn. HUD. NYCHA will work with HUD to secure a The tenants of the 21 newly federalized Kelvin Alford Case 8683/09 formerly associated with the 2nd permanent subsidy for the remaining 6,160 units developments have the same rights, Floor, 465 Columbia Street, Red Hook East Houses, Brooklyn. in the developments within the next two years. protections, and privileges; they will utilize the Steven Arce Case 7045/09 formerly associated with the 2nd Fl. Additionally, NYCHA will receive more same rent schedules, programs and policies; 3-20 27th Avenue, Astoria Houses, Queens. than $400 million in public and private there will be no relocations or displacement Dante Ramirez Case 6332/03formerly associated with the 9th Fl. funding to upgrade the physical structure of during renovations; development staff will 153 Sumner Avenue, Roosevelt Houses, Brooklyn. all the buildings in the 21 newly federalized remain NYCHA employees; federalization developments to meet federal standards. preserves these units as public housing; and Prohibited as of January 13, 2010 These buildings also contain more than 2,000 NYCHA serves as the managing partner Jessie Arriola Case 8753/09 formerly associated with the 3rd Fl. units that had been previously voluntarily and management agent to ensure seamless 1187 226th Drive, Edenwald Houses, Bronx. transferred to Section 8 status. continuity of operation. Raul Acosta Case 4849/09 formerly associated with the 8th Fl. A significant part of the capital funding Several officials, highlighting Chairman Rhea’s 300 E. 158th Street, Morrisania Air Rights, Bronx. was secured through the required sale theme of collaboration, have stressed that Robert Rhodes Case 8956/09 formerly associated with the 8th Fl. of the 21 developments and the lease of federalization was a unique opportunity under 151 Jersey Street, Richmond Terrace Houses, Bronx. their land to a mixed-finance partnership the terms of the 2009 Stimulus Act thanks, in Brian Gillette Case 8948/ 09 formerly associated with the 2nd Fl. 654 Kingsborough 6th Walk, Kingsborough Houses, Brooklyn. between NYCHA, the controlling partner; Citi large part, to the efforts of Senator Schumer, Community Capital, the financial institution; Congresswoman Velázquez and Congressman Davon Thomas Case 8910/09 formerly associated with the 1st Fl. 106 Kramer St., South Beach Houses, Staten Island. and the Housing Partnership Development Jerrold Nadler, who advocated for the inclusion Corporation, as the non-profit partner. of public housing in the Stimulus Act. The Housing Authority Journal April / May 2010 5

Arthur Newcombe, Sr. Dedication

he New York City Housing Authority joined relatives Tand friends of the late Arthur F. Newcombe, Sr. on April 16th to rededicate the corner of Henderson Avenue and Broadway in West Brighton in memory of the longtime community activist and World War II veteran. Mr. Newcombe formed the West Brighton Boys Club, now known as the West Brighton Youth Club. He was the former director of the West Brighton Community Center; a past vice president of the Port Richmond High School Father’s Club; vice commander of the Corporal Lawrence Thompson VFW post; and committee member of the Richmond County Democratic Party. Mr. Newcombe, who served with the Seabees construction battalion in the second World War, worked as a bus driver on Staten Island with the New York City Transit (Center l-r ) Queens-Staten Island Borough Director Carolyn Jasper, Vice Chairman Earl Andrews, Jr., South Beach Houses Authority for 30 years. Manager Leonard Danquah, and South Beach Houses President Scherisce Lewis celebrate the development’s 60th anniversary “Arthur F. Newcombe was an exceptional veteran with resident leaders. and community activist and contributor to the West Brighton community,” said City Councilwoman Debi Rose South Beach Comes Together (D-North Shore), in a statement released prior to the street renaming. “It will be a great honor for me to unveil Arthur F. f there’s one lesson to take and Kids initiative with the of communication,” Mr. Newcombe, Sr. Way.” Ifrom the South Beach Houses 122nd Precinct; karate lessons Richburg said. “(Ms. Lewis) is Mr. Newcombe, Sr. died on March 18, 2009. Community Center, it’s the and full-body workout classes very hands-on. When she has persistent gift of teamwork. for teens and adults; and Build, recommendations, she makes Teamwork gives and gives again. Research, Invent, Design, Grow those recommendations and we “Whatever comes our way, we and Explore (BRIDGES), an after work with her on any program want to bring it to South Beach school science and mathematics she’d like to see in the Center.” for the kids and our seniors,” program. And this summer, Ms. Lewis doesn’t limit her said Tenant Association President South Beach will host a 22-week, recommendations to NYCHA Scherisce Lewis. “We work all-women’s soccer league and a team members. With the help together as a team.” 32-week flag football league. of Assemblywoman Janele By “we,” Ms. Lewis means South Beach is the two-time Hyer-Spencer, the South Beach Borough Director for Queens borough Chess Champions and Community Center is home to a and Staten Island Anthony the defending Flag Football $2 million Advanced Technology Richburg; Borough Administrator borough Champions and Training and Information for Queens and Staten Island runners-up for the citywide Networking (ATTAIN) Lab, (Center) City Councilwoman Debi Rose joins Mrs. Rosetta Newcombe, Michael Cox; Program Manager football title. Resident Jomar which provides computer Borough Director for Staten Island and Queens Carolyn Jasper, West Brighton Houses Manager Jacqueline Gathers, Tenant Association President Beatrice Raymond Diaz; and South Beach Archer is the citywide Sixth literacy and employment skills Everett and family and friends of the late Mr. Arthur F. Newcombe, Sr. Arthur Houses Community Center Grade Spelling Bee Champion. training, as well as a GED prep Newcombe, Jr. appears at the far left. Director Derrick Simpson. “One reason it works so course. The ATTAIN Lab is also “You couldn’t ask for a better well is that the TA president a symbol of a second message administrator than Michael and Board and my staff that can be taken from South Cox,” Ms. Lewis said. “Anthony have a mutual respect for Beach’s success: the power of Richburg and Ray Diaz are always each other and a good line determination. Now is a great time there when we need them. continued on page 7 Always.” to become a And her right arm at the Community Center: Why Do So Many NYCHA Groups Use “Me and Mr. D are a team,” first-time homebuyer. BOB MANN TOURS For Their Tours? she said. “I back him and I back my center, and he does the We Offer: same.” The State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) offers: * Attention To Detail * A Variety of Tour Destinations Their dynamic partnership • 30- or 40- year fixed interest rates that are typically below market; has produced one of NYCHA’s * Low Prices & Great Service * New & Exciting Tours Every Year • Financing up to 97%; most successful, resident focused • Flexible underwriting guidelines; • Down payment assistance (higher of $3,000 or 3% of the loan community centers. Joseph at Sight & Sound Theater Gospel Lobsterfeast in the Poconos amount or up to $10,000); The South Beach Community • No points; Heritage Tours to Baltimore, Philadelphia & Washington Center hosts, among other • No financing add ons. programs, Partners in Reading CALL FOR OUR LATEST 2010 FREE CATALOG for children ages 6 to 8; an after Phone: 718-628-9030 Toll Free: 1-888-745-9897 For more information, call school program for children www.bobmanntours.com 1-800-382-HOME (4663) ages 6 to 12; a music program; or visit www.nyhomes.org THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME chess; flag football; the Cops

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Rutgers Houses “Tonight, we’re honoring Tenant Patrol Awards neighbors looking out

s with any New York City Housing Authority “The for neighbors,” A(NYCHA) initiative, residents are integral Tenant Patrols Speaker Silver to a program’s success; and keeping NYCHA are a vital part said. families safe is no different. On Thursday, April of our overall 29th, NYCHA honored residents’ contribution to strategy for keeping their homes safe at the Rutgers Houses making NYCHA communities safer,” Vice Tenant Patrol Awards Dinner. The event featured Chairman Earl Andrews, Jr. said. “Tonight’s Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver who, along celebration allows the Authority to say how with Assemblyman Vito Lopez, allocated $1.9 much we appreciate the Rutgers Houses Patrol Chairman Rhea proudly displays NYCHA’s award from the New York State million to expand the program. volunteers’ service.” Association for Affordable Housing. “Tonight, we’re honoring neighbors looking With the new funding from Speaker Silver out for neighbors,” Speaker Silver said. and Assemblyman Lopez, the Tenant Patrol will The New York City Organized in July 1968, the Tenant Patrols provide $540 per year in stipends for tenant provide an opportunity for residents to work participants with participants receiving $45 a Housing Authority together to discourage conditions that allow month to provide supportive services in their crime and related problems to flourish. In addi- communities. Rutgers Houses averages 95 resi- Receives Award tion, the Patrols serve to advance the develop- dents that have applied for the program and are ment of good safety habits, elevate the levels of actively sitting in patrol each month. for Excellence communication, increase involvement in commu- Tenant Patrol Captain Miguel Morales was nity activities and promote positive relations also honored, but was not present for the and Innovation between neighbors and visitors. group photograph. he New York City Housing Authority was presented with Tthe New York State Association for Affordable Housing (NYSAFAH) Award for Excellence and Innovation during the 11th Annual New York State Affordable Housing Conference on April 29. The NYSAFAH presents the award each year to individuals, City agencies, and other organizations that employ innovative ideas to build, fund or preserve affordable housing. One recent example of NYCHA’s pioneering thinking was the announcement of its historic Mixed-Finance Moderniza- tion Plan that secures ongoing federal funding for its 21 City and State built developments, allowing for the preservation of more than 20,000 units of affordable housing. The New York State Association for Affordable Housing, (l-r) Tenant Patrol Captain Lourdes Leung, DGM for Operations Gloria Finkelman, Tenant Patrol Captain Aida Rivera, Stanley formed in 1998, is a trade association for private sector Isaacs Houses resident leader Rose Bergin, Secretary Vilma Huertas, GM Michael Kelly, Resident Association President Michael organizations throughout New York State that are involved in Steele, Vice Chairman Earl Andrews, Jr., Tenant Patrol Captain Sarah Situ, Manhattan Borough Director Robert Knapp, Manhattan Community Operations Director Ukah Busgith, and Deputy Director Hector L. Ramos. affordable housing.

Message from the Chairman continued from page 3 long-term rebuilding efforts relationship. After hearing team with proven expertise in for Haiti.We’re in the midst of your concerns, I formed the community renewal through the “Greening of NYCHA,” Safety and Security Taskforce economic growth, including mobilized by Commissioner and staffed it with leaders at experience working with the East López, to reduce the Authority’s NYCHA, resident leaders and River Development Alliance carbon footprint, upgrade our NYPD leadership charged to that recently chartered a federal systems and lower energy costs. design and implement measures credit union for public housing We’ve also continued our work that make residents safer and residents of western Queens with stalwart partners like Union everyone more accountable. (front page). Settlement to provide Head While community enrichment Summer is just around the Start and Day Care services, and services to residents are corner. Traditionally, it is a season enrichment opportunities for important, NYCHA realizes of community celebration. As we children and teens, mental that the most tangible factor in commemorate a year of working health services and programs for improving families’ quality of together, let us keep focused on seniors. life is helping residents receive our goal — making public housing

And we opened a dialogue workforce training and jobs a force for real and lasting good Union Settlement honored Chairman John Rhea and NYCHA on April 28 for with residents and with the with livable wages. That’s why in the lives of NYCHA families. our work with the organization in assisting families in East Harlem. Celebrating NYPD about how we can better I formed the Office of Resident I look forward to working with this award (l-r): Hugh Spence, Dawn Walker, Chairman Rhea, Jenna Lawrence, Lynn Godfrey, Helen Morillo, Madeline Small, Constance Robotham and Earl protect NYCHA families, while Economic Empowerment and you over the next year to ensure Andrews, Jr. simultaneously improving Sustainability (REES) to lead that we live up to that mission the resident-police officer this effort and assembled a together. The Housing Authority Journal April / May 2010 7

South Beach Comes Together continued from page 5 “Ms. Lewis is very, very prescribed a medication that NOTICe involved in the community, as damaged the organ; her second well as in the community center,” had to be removed following New York City Housing Authority Draft Mr. Richburg said. injuries she sustained in a car Ms. Lewis became association accident. “It doesn’t stop me,” Agency Annual Plan for FY 2011 president in 2001 when then Ms. Lewis said. Availability of the Draft Agency Annual Plan for Public Inspection president Edmond Barry handed Now, in addition to working her the reins after Mr. Barry lost to bring back the South Beach The public is advised that the Draft Agency Annual Plan for FY 2011 will be available for public inspection his wife on September 11. Houses childcare center and at NYCHA’s principal office, located at 250 Broadway, New York, NY, from May 7, 2010 through June 30, “I organized a memorial for developing a new program 2010, between the hours of 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please call (212) 306-8202 to make an appointment to him and we hosted 450 people,” aimed at educating young review the Draft Agency Annual Plan for FY 2011 and supporting documents. Ms. Lewis said. “After that, he women and preventing teen The Draft Agency Annual Plan for FY 2011 will also be available at the following locations: saw I could handle the job and pregnancy, Ms. Lewis is focusing • On NYCHA’s webpage, which is located on http://www.nyc.gov/nycha he turned things over to me.” her efforts on her newest project, Now in her third term as the S. Lewis Save a Life and • At the Management Office ofeach NYCHA public housing development during regular president, her work for the South Donate an Organ Foundation. business hours. At the Community Centers/Borough Offices listed below during the hours Beach Community Center is only And she’s developing new of 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.: a part of her service. programs for South Beach’s Ms. Lewis, who works as seniors. First up is Friday Movie Campos Plaza Community Center Bronxdale Community Center Bronxdale Community Center a direct care provider and is Nights. 611 East 13th Street 1000 Rosedale Avenue 1000 Rosedale Avenue completing college, is the “We will be hosting movie New York, New York Bronx, New York Bronx, New York leader of the Staten Island Girl nights for our seniors,” said Ms. King Towers Community Center Hammel Community Center Hammel Community Center Scouts troop; the founder of a Lewis, who has donated a big 2 West 115th Street 81-14 Rockaway Beach Blvd 81-14 Rockaway Beach Blvd mentoring program; developer, screen television to the center. New York, New York Rockaway, New York Rockaway, New York with Assemblywoman Hyer- “We’re like one big happy St. Mary’s Park Community Center Queens Community Operations Queens Community Operations Spencer, of an on-going clothing family here,” she said. “Everyone 595 Trinity Ave Borough Office Borough Office Bronx, New York 70-30 Parsons Blvd 70-30 Parsons Blvd drive that collects clothes for comes together. Our manager, Flushing , New York Flushing , New York donation to women who live Leonard Danquah, I think he’s in shelter, particularly clothing the best manager there is.” Public Comment that the women can wear on Ms. Lewis began her career The public is invited to attend any of the five scheduled Town Hall meetings at which the public job interviews; she serves on the in service to her fellow NYCHA may raise questions regarding the Draft Annual Plan for FY 2011. These meetings will be held Police-Citizens’ Council; and she residents when she worked from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on the dates and locations shown below: and daughter Shanee Lewis lead with the late Mrs. Elizabeth THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2010 MONDAY MAY 17, 2010 THURSDAYHURSDAY,, JJUNEUNE 3, 2010 the Community Center’s dance Stanton, former president of New York City College St. George Theater Fashion Institute programs. the Richmond Terrace Houses of Technology 35 Hyatt Street of Technology

An organ transplant survivor, Tenant Association. Klitgord Auditorium SLAND Staten Island, New York Haft Auditorium I she also serves as an advocate to “I was her secretary on the 285 Jay Street 7th Avenue & 27th Street BRooKLyN at Tillary Street ANHATTAN New York, New York the National Kidney Foundation. Council of Presidents and she Brooklyn, New York MANHATTAN M TATEN Ms. Lewis has undergone two took me around and she taught ISLAND STATEN S kidney transplant operations me how to be a president, how TUESDAYUESDAY,, JUNEJUNE 8, 2010 TUESDAYUESDAY,, JUNEJUNE 15, 2010 and is currently awaiting a third to be a leader,” Ms. Lewis said. Electrical x Classic Center Industry Center N at Melrose donation that she says will “There’s no ‘I’ in team. For me it’s o

67-35 Parsons Blvd at R 286 E. 156th Street at hopefully come from a relative about my community, it’s about BRoNx B QuEENS Jewel Ave Morris Avenue who is a match. She lost her my kids.” Flushing, New York Bronx, New York first donated kidney after being

West Nile Virus The public is also invited to comment on the Draft Annual Agency Plan for FY 2011 at a Mosquito Treatment public hearing to be held on Wednesday, June 30, 2010 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at: FASHIoN INSTITuTE oF TECHNoLoGy The New York City Housing Authority will be treating all of the Haft Auditorium catch basins located on Housing Authority developments to 7th Avenue & 27th Street reduce the mosquito population in an effort to minimize the transmission of the West Nile Virus. These applications will take New York, New York place between May and September of 2010. One or more of the following pesticides will be used: Each location listed above is both handicapped accessible and can be reached using public transportation. For transportation information go to http://tripplanner.mta.info Vectolex cG, EPa Reg. No. 73049-20, toxicity category – “caution” or call the MTA/NYC Transit Travel Information Line (718) 330-1234. summit B.t.i. Briquets, EPa Reg. No. 6218-47, toxicity category – “caution” altosid XR, EPa Reg. No. 2724-421, toxicity category – “caution” Written comments regarding the Draft Annual Agency Plan for FY 2011 are encouraged. contact names and numbers for this application are; To be considered, submissions must be received via united States Postal mail NYc Housing authority: or fax no later than June 23, 2010. Faxed submissions will be accepted at (212) 306-7905. Cal Bruno, Deputy Director, 718-707-5281 available from 9 am — 5 pm Comments may be sent to the following address: Jamal Rashid, Technical Resource Advisor, 718-707-5808 available from NEW yoRK CITy HouSING AuTHoRITy 8:00 am — 4:00 pm Public Housing Agency Plan Comments NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Region 2, Bureau of Pesticide Church Street Station Management — 718-482-4994 P.O. Box 3422 National Pesticide Telecommunications Network–1-800-858-PEST New York, New York 10008-3422 inquiries concerning symptoms of pesticide poisoning should be directed to the Poison control center Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor John B. Rhea, Chairman 1-800-222-1222 8 April / May 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

continued from page 3 continued from page 4 Safety Security &Survey NYCHA Wants to Hear From You SpeakinG Green Lecture Series selected to provide an overall technology to combat crime not tion provides residents with information on Lauren Yarmuth, Co-Founder and Prin- picture of NYCHA — build- only in the developments, but simple, specific steps they can take for cipal of YRG, a green development consul- ings range from the very small also in the larger community. To “low carbon living.” tant, said that many corporations and to the very large; those that that end, the Safety and Secu- Commissioner López conducted a discus- government bodies “recognize their huge include elderly-only develop- rity Task Force brings residents, sion with two distinguished panelists involved responsibility” to mitigate their impact on ments; developments serviced police officers, and NYCHA with energy policy and sustainability issues climate change, citing well-known corpora- by Police Service Areas as officials with broad expertise in by illustrating her questions with charts and tions such as Walmart, Starbucks and others. compared to those served by all areas of housing together to graphs. Most showed sharp increases in However, their measures are not sufficient the local precinct; developments create a comprehensive plan for NYCHA’s energy costs and consumption — unless their customers make wise decisions equipped with closed-circuit making NYCHA homes safer. with a small moderation after 2007 with the about what products they buy, and how television cameras and those The Chairman, working with inception of the Green Agenda. they live at home, eat, and travel. It’s hard without that technology; and Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, has Environmental Defense Fund Campaign to realize the impact of our actions on large developments with historically made resident safety a corner- Director Mary Barber described the poten- things like glaciers, oceans, and weather. high crime rates to those with stone of his plan for improving tial global consequences of unchecked “Without NYCHA’s residents and historically low levels of crime. the quality of life for NYCHA fami- greenhouse gases as “alarming,” citing employees being fully engaged at work and Chairman Rhea held a series lies and he stressed the impor- rising temperatures and sea levels, at home in conservation efforts, NYCHA’s of meetings with residents and tance of getting feedback from increased downpours, droughts, and energy-efficient light bulbs, boilers and resident leaders beginning in residents before implementing declining food production. other technology will not be enough,” said September following a listening any broad changes. “You can’t see rising sea levels and other Ms. Yarmuth. campaign he conducted after “We know that we can count changes but things we do [or don’t do] NYCHA’s new resident’s guide to saving taking the helm of NYCHA. It on NYCHA residents to give us every day have an enormous impact,” she energy “is a tremendously valuable tool,” revealed deep concerns among clear, honest feedback and to said, such as turning off lights and TVs in she noted. Recalling a meeting that morning residents about the role of the commit to working with us to empty rooms, closing doors and windows with children visiting NYCHA on Earth Day, NYPD in protecting families, the make life at the developments when the air conditioner is on, and running Commissioner López remarked, “the children relationship between residents safer for families,” Chairman fewer and fuller washes in the dishwasher told me what needs to be done and that the and police officers, the useful- Rhea said. “But first, we have to and washing machine. problem is the adults.” ness of the Tenant Patrols, and get their responses to the survey. making better use of modern Then the real work begins.”

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CCM PACE has an approved contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and NY State. Addi- tional benefits and restrictions may apply. Members are liable H3329_MKS_2009_011 for the cost of services not authorized by CCM program. The Housing Authority Journal April / May 2010 9 NYCHA Talent Need Help Show in Paying for Prescription Drugs under Medicare? Hits the If you are a single senior whose monthly income is below $1,354.00 or a couple whose monthly income is below $1,822.00, you may qualify for extra help in paying for prescription drugs. Call Social Security at Top 40 1-800-772-1213 and ask for information about "Extra Help". you may also apply online at he New York City Housing www.socialsecurity.gov. TAuthority (NYCHA) has been discovering and Third-place winner Nasiyah Wallace with NYCHA staffers (l-r) Dawn Walker, Jenna Lawrence, Hugh Spence, Deirdre Gilliard and Juan Santiago. developing talent – young FREE 14-week job training program for and old – for 40 years, as a homeless & low-income women part of its annual Talent Search Competition and Talent Show. First Step Program This year NYCHA hosted The winnerS were: Computer Training - Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook the Annual Talent Show at Internet Research • Resume Writing • Interviewing Skills SENIoRS TEENS Job Placement Assistance • Self-Esteem Building Harlem’s legendary Apollo First Place – Ronnie Marks First Place – The Professionals 2 Month Internship • Case Management • Typing Theater on April 10. Second Place – Jose Guevara Second Place – New Legacy Literacy Building • Mentoring • Yoga & Meditation “I’ve been involved with Third Place – Shelia Wheeler Third Place – Exclusive Support Groups • Empowerment the show for over 20 years,” Entertainment GED not required • New class starting soon! said NYCHA’s Deputy General ADuLTS First Place – Keziah Anderson CHILDREN FREE Continental Breakfast & Metrocards Provided Manager of Community Operations, Hugh Spence. Second Place – Christina Prindle First Place – Uptown Green For more information, please call (212) 776-2074 Third Place Venus Sharpe Second Place Tytiana Brown “I’ve seen it evolve to a – – Third Place – Nasiyah Wallace professionally staged show for amateur talent.” 10 April / May 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

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