New Affordable Housing Options on NYCHA Property to Be Available for Residents

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

NYCHA

Vol. 40 No. 9 www.nyc.gov/nycha November 2010

inside New Affordable Housing Options on NYCHA this issue Property to be Available for Residents t may be the fall, but new residences have begun to Irise on two NYCHA properties. Groundbreakings were held in mid-October for low-income senior housing at Pomonok Houses in Queens and for affordable housing at Elliott-Chelsea Houses in Manhattan. Although the residences will not be operated by NYCHA, some units will be made available to public housing residents. Covering 25,000 square feet of land, what once was a parking lot at Pomonok was transferred to the NYCHA Residents/CUNY JournaMetropolitan Council on Jewish Property (Met Council). l Students Recognized for The land will be the site of Council Towers VI, an eight- Stellar Academics » read more on page 2 story building with 78 one-bedroom units with green NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea (center) prepares to break ground at the features and supportive services for low-income senior site of a former NYCHA parking lot in Queens at Council Towers VI, an eight-story, 78-unit residence for low-income senior citizens run by the citizens who are able to live independently, as part of Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, on October 14, 2010. the federal Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program. For the first time ever in this type of housing New York City’s commitment to stand with our seniors,” development, seniors residing in NYCHA’s public housing said NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea during the ground- will receive preference for 19 of the units. Priority first will breaking ceremony on October 14. “Council Towers be given to Pomonok residents and next to seniors living VI not only will be a new home for several of NYCHA’s in other NYCHA developments. Once the seniors move seniors, but it will allow us to offer the benefit of housing out of public housing and into Council Towers VI, there to another generation of New Yorkers, as well.” will be a ripple effect on NYCHA’s waiting list, particularly Met Council will provide replacement parking spaces Computers, Internet, large families. A number of seniors live in multi-bedroom for Pomonok residents to make up for the ones lost units that can accommodate larger families. to construction. Health Care Highlight Senior Benefit Fair » read more on page 9 “I am so proud to be with you today, as we reaffirm In Manhattan, sections of land from continued on page 2 

Queens Residents Get Assistance Ravenswood and Woodside. Residents will be able to access to Achieve Financial Independence ERDA’s financial counseling and education services, ranging from YCHA, the United Way of New dence Today (FIT) plans to provide short-term financial crisis counseling NYork City and the East River money management services to at and financial education workshops, Development Alliance (ERDA) have least 2,000 households in Western to longer-term one-on-one finan- created a joint program to help pub- Queens during its first two years. cial counseling focused on asset lic housing residents who are behind FIT will operate in six housing building. The initiative also will work NYCHA: A MODEL on rental payments become more developments – Astoria, Baisley to connect un-banked and under- In Green page 3 Partnerships » read more on financially stable. Financial Indepen- Park, Pomonok, Queensbridge, banked residents to mainstream financial services to help them avoid Stay Safe high-priced check cashing compa- This Holiday Season » read more on page 4 nies and predatory lenders. “We believe that what we learn in Western Queens will have citywide and national significance,” fast facts said NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea. “NYCHA is hopeful that not Senior citizens make up only will ERDA succeed in providing more than 18% of financial counseling so residents can NYCHA’s total population. achieve economic independence, but that NYCHA will increase rev- The development with the enue by securing more timely rental most entries in NYCHA’s payments and holding fewer rental th 48 Annual Garden and arrear delinquency proceedings.” Miriam Booth from Astoria Houses discusses financial planning with Jeremy Reiss, Vice Greening Competition was President for Strategy Organizing and External Affairs at the Financial Independence FIT was announced on Beach 41st Street Houses Today (FIT) Center in Queens, on September 27, 2010. September 27 continued on page 2  in Queens with 29 entries. 2 November 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

NYCHA Celebrates 5th Annual Resident Scholarship Winners continued from page 1 Queens Residents that we want the best for you public housing and attended and that we are counting on John Jay College of Criminal Get Assistance you to use your education to Justice. She spent most of to Achieve Financial leave your community better her life in a wheelchair, but Independence than you found it.” that did not stop her from at the grand opening of Joshua Carter, a 20-year old advocating for the rights of ERDA’s Astoria Houses resident of Van Dyke Houses the disabled and from living office, which received in Brooklyn and a student at her life to the fullest. capital support from Medgar Evers College, is a The other 2010 NYCHA/ City Council Member perfect example of a person CUNY Resident Scholarship Peter Vallone, Jr. who has transformed life’s Winners are Lilian Almanzar, “I am so excited to challenges into victories. Mr. Melrose Houses (Bronx); have the FIT program and Carter has Proteus Syndrome, Dioselina Bohorquez-Leon, the ERDA Astoria office The 10 winners of the 2010 NYCHA-CUNY Resident Scholarship stand with NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea (center) at the program’s reception on which enlarges the right side of Marcy Houses (Brooklyn); in my community,” said September 30, 2010. his body causing other illnesses, Bineta Diouf, James Weldon Astoria Houses Tenant By Heidi Morales Resident Scholarship Program, such as cystic lung disease and Johnson Houses (Manhattan); Association President bony Alston always has established in 2005, awards the curving of his spine making Elizabeth Harrison, Breukelen Claudia Coger. “ERDA’s Eloved art. At a young age, scholarships to public housing it difficult to walk. In honor of Houses (Brooklyn); Chanell work truly is innovative her mother encouraged her residents who are enrolled in his will and unwavering strength Johnson, Lillian Wald Houses and I know the work we to develop her artistic talents, a CUNY school, maintain a of character, Mr. Carter was (Manhattan); Maritza Maldo- are doing with the rental and she spent endless hours grade point average of 3.0 or awarded the first Regina nado, Polo Grounds Towers arrears population will in museums and art galleries. higher and major in a variety Figueroa Memorial Scholarship. (Manhattan); Maritza McGinn, have a major impact here, But her dream of getting a of concentrations. Ms. Figueroa was an employee Pelham Parkway Houses and become a model higher education and becom- “I know there is much more of NYCHA’s Department of (Bronx); and Juan Nivelo, which can be replicated ing an artist became difficult work for me to do. I am just Communications for 10 years, Queensbridge South citywide.” when her mother and grand- getting started,” said Ms. and also was a resident of Houses (Queens). mother passed away, leaving Alston. “I know my mom and her to care for her younger grandmother are very proud. brother and support the I nearly cried when my little News from the Office of Public-Private household. However, she brother texted me ‘I love you Partnerships pressed on and now is en- big sis. I am so proud of you.’” rolled in the City University of NYCHA Chairman John B. Access Control Makeover at Mott Haven New York’s (CUNY) New York Rhea encouraged the students ott Haven Houses in the Bronx is getting new building entrance door locks and a new City College of Technology. to keep their dreams alive in Mwireless intercom system to help improve safety and security in the development’s The 25-year-old resident of the face of hardships and dis- eight buildings. The new equipment will come thanks to a $250,000 grant from the federal Morris Houses in the Bronx appointments. “This is just one Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). “Residents are going to be so happy also is one of 10 public hous- of many steps on your road to when they learn about this,” said John Johnson, Mott Haven’s Resident Association President. ing residents awarded $1,000 success,” he said. “With each “We need these improvements so badly.” to continue her studies. step you take, may you be re- The front entrances at Mott Haven repeatedly are vandalized, allowing anyone to enter the The NYCHA-CUNY minded that we believe in you, buildings. But after installation, traditional keys and locks will be obsolete, and residents will

The Inside this Issue: Green Photo is Courtesy of Samuel Lahoz Photography. enter their building with a programmable key card that can be activated or deactivated in an instant. The card readers are Kevlar-coated and bulletproof to prevent tampering. Malfunction- 76 ing components and compromised doors will be monitored electronically – if a door remains years open for an extended period, an alarm will be sent to NYCHA’s security operations center. NYCHA of Public Housing in New York City The wireless intercom system will have the ability to call landline and cell phones, eliminat- ing the reliance on local phone company service. The intercoms will be encased in stainless ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 steel and have a custom protective coating to prevent vandalism. They can be programmed Published monthly by the New York City Housing Authority for multiple languages and will be integrated fully into the closed circuit television system. Department of Communications In 2009, there was an increase in arrests for felonies, misdemeanors and narcotics at Journa250 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10007l Mott Haven of more than 50 percent. The increase in criminal activity was related directly to Tel (212) 306-3322 • Fax (212) 577-1358 nyc.gov/nycha breaches in building security. The equipment that will be installed thanks to the HUD grant Michael R. Bloomberg ��Mayor targets the crucial need for heightened security and safety systems in the development. John B. Rhea �� Chair Earl Andrews, Jr. ��Vice‑Chair Margarita López ��Board Member continued from page 1 Vilma Huertas ��Secretary New Affordable Housing Options to residents of Elliott and Chelsea. The project Michael Kelly ��General Manager will include 30 replacement parking spaces Lynn Godfrey ��Chief Communications Officer on NYCHA Property to be for residents at the developments and NYCHA Sheila Stainback ��Communications Officer Eric Deutsch…….. �� Editor Available for Residents employees, and more than 7,000 square Heidi Morales ��Editor, Spanish Edition Elliott and Chelsea Houses will be home to feet of retail space on the ground level. Tischelle George �� Online News Editor Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza �� Photography a new 22-story rental apartment building. “This exemplifies our commitment to Christian Nwachukwu �� Staff Writer The units will be available to households with facilitate affordable housing production on Brent Grier ��Staff Intern earnings ranging from 40% to 195% of the suitable sites within NYCHA developments,” If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please call our marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue median income of the area. Consisting of 168 said Chairman Rhea at the groundbreaking Development at (212) 306‑6616. The inclusion of any advertisement in this apartments, 34 of the units will be reserved for ceremony on October 26. Both projects are Journal does not constitute any endorsement by the Housing Authority of the advertiser or its products or services or any other representation by income-eligible NYCHA residents, with priority scheduled to be completed by 2012. the Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. The Housing Authority Journal November 2010 3

Message from the Chairman

With an eye toward the future, the New developments. And we will take a long look at how we use our scarce resources. York City Housing Authority is undergoing We need to use our dollars effectively to ensure the highest quality of service. We an ambitious and transformative planning then will look for opportunities to streamline bureaucracy, eliminate unnecessary process to ensure the preservation and paperwork and processes and enhance delivery of frontline services to customers. growth of public and affordable housing One of the most important measures of the success for this Plan will be its in New York City – the Plan to Preserve impact on our residents. We will define what it means to enhance the quality of Public Housing. Through the Plan, we will life of NYCHA residents – securing jobs, enhancing educational outcomes, being address the challenges we face today, clarify our vision and lay the groundwork safe and secure. We will bring the most impactful programs and services to our for future generations in the City. It is the most important initiative the Authority communities, and will measure our efforts so we can determine what works. is undertaking in the coming months. NYCHA will seek to engage both public housing and Section 8 residents The Plan to Preserve Public Housing will set NYCHA’s goals for 2011–2015. throughout the process of creating the Plan to Preserve Public Housing. We It will focus on six priorities – balancing our budget and ensuring long-term cannot do this alone – we need your opinions and ideas. This does not mean that fiscal stability; using our valuable resources to preserve public housing and we can make every idea happen. Not every resident is going to agree with every increase the number of affordable housing units; improving quality of life outcome. But while there may be disagreement on policies, we will have an and enhancing self-sufficiency for public housing residents and Section 8 open process with you. You will know how we made decisions, why we chose participants; promoting environmental sustainability in our workplaces and what we chose, how items will be implemented and the effects they will have communities; increasing safety and security in our communities; and ensuring on your day-to-day life. productive and customer-focused workplaces. The Authority already has begun to collaborate with highly effective external When I was named Chairman in 2009, Mayor Michael Bloomberg gave me partners, including the Harlem Children’s Zone, Robin Hood Foundation and a clear direction to address NYCHA’s financial situation, improve the quality of the United Way to name a few. These collaborations are leading to real results life of residents and make the Authority more transparent and open to partnering. for our residents in education, employment and financial opportunities. By working with our residents, community partners and other stakeholders to If you are interested in finding out more about how you can participate in create this plan, we are doing this in a comprehensive way. the Plan to Preserve Public Housing, please call 212-306-6093 or email If NYCHA cannot fix its financial situation, we cannot preserve public housing. [email protected]. We have to find creative and innovative ways to bring in more money to the You can expect to hear a lot more about the Plan to Preserve Public Housing Authority. We are looking at new funding sources, as well as opportunities to during the coming months. And I look forward to working with you to shape partner with the private sector such as our recent efforts in the federalization of 21 NYCHA for not just the next five years, but the next 75 years.

can lower indoor temperatures Green is Cool! by up to 20 degrees on he New York City Housing hot days. The decrease in T Authority (NYCHA) has temperature reduces the need proven to be a valued partner for air conditioning, lowering in the fight against global electric bills and reducing warming. The Authority energy consumption. The white has helped Mayor Michael reflective coating also can Bloomberg reach a significant extend the life of a roof by five to milestone by participating in 10 years by reducing the stress the coating of the one millionth caused by extreme heat. square foot of rooftop as a Several corporate partners part of the NYC CoolRoofs support NYCHA in their cool Program. On the morning of roof efforts, including Bloomberg October 13, Mayor Bloomberg, LP, Disney, Ernst & Young LLP NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea and Moody’s. Nearly 300 and NYCHA Environmental employees volunteered to coat Coordinator Margarita López NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea (far right) and Commissioner Margarita López (second from right) join Mayor the roofs with materials donated celebrated this accomplishment Michael Bloomberg (center) at Betances Houses in the Bronx to coat the one millionth square foot of rooftop by the companies. white by the NYC Service Cool Roof Initiative. at Dr. Ramon E. Betances NYCHA not only has Houses in the South Bronx, wielding paint rollers and wearing bright been recognized as a valued partner in sustainability efforts, but also for orange t-shirts. promoting its Green Agenda. On October 6, NYCHA was recognized at By adding a white, reflective coating to one million square feet of rooftop, the American Institute for Architects – New York / Center for Architecture’s which includes more than 100,000 square feet of rooftop on NYCHA facilities, Heritage Ball for its achievements in energy efficiency and greening in the NYC CoolRoofs Program is helping landlords reduce cooling costs, energy partnership with the Clinton Climate Initiative, a foundation established usage and curb buildings’ carbon dioxide emissions. The program is one of by former president Bill Clinton. This annual award given by the Center the original initiatives of NYC Service and will support the City’s efforts to for Architecture Foundation recognizes an individual or organization that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2030, a principal goal improves the built environment through education and community of PlaNYC, the City’s comprehensive sustainability plan. involvement. It was presented to the Clinton Climate Initiative for its work As part of the CoolRoofs Program, the roofs of 105 public, private and on energy efficiency in buildings in New York City and around the world. non-profit buildings were coated white. The reflective white coating can NYCHA’s Green Agenda was one of the featured projects, with special reduce rooftop temperatures by up to 60 degrees, which leads to reduced emphasis on the energy improvements at Castle Hill Houses in the Bronx, cooling costs and reduced carbon emissions into the environment. A cool which include new boilers and replacing incandescent light bulbs and roof also absorbs 80 percent less heat than traditional dark colored roofs and existing hot water tanks with instantaneous hot water heaters. 4 November 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

The NYCHA Not Wanted List The Chief’s Corner

In this issue we continue publishing the names of individuals Holiday Safety Tips who have been excluded permanently from our public housing ith the holiday season upon us, most people are preoccupied developments. The purpose of this list is to keep residents informed of the Housing Authority’s ongoing efforts to improve Wwith the details of holiday planning and shopping. Unfortunately, the quality of life for all New Yorkers in public housing and to the safety precautions we normally take can be forgotten as the allow for the peaceful and safe use of our facilities. What follows excitement of the season causes us to let our guard down. The NYPD is a partial list of the people excluded after hearings were held wants this to be a safe holiday season for all, so we remind you to on April 14 and 21, 2010. follow these simple tips. Enjoy the City and the season! Prohibited as of April 14, 2010 Housing Bureau Police Javier Anglin case 2443/10 formerly associated with the 5th fl., ffBe alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Criminals Chief Joanne Jaffe 2926 W. 25th Street, Edenwald Houses, Brooklyn often target people who are distracted. Quintin Lowther case 2484/10 formerly associated with the ffWhether driving, walking or taking public transportation, plan the trip in advance. 4th fl., 1135 E. 229th Street, Edenwald Houses, Bronx Know how to get to your destination by the most direct and safest route. Daren Porter case 2497/10 formerly associated with the 1st fl., 233 Sands Street, Farragut Houses, Brooklyn ffIf possible, stay in designated waiting areas or in view of the station booth clerk while Felix Sanabria case 9047/09 formerly associated with the 8th fl., awaiting your train. Never walk or stand near the edge of the subway platform. 250 Clinton Street, LaGuardia, Manhattan ffTravel on populated, well-lit streets. If possible, travel with a friend. Leon Santiago case 2452/10 formerly associated with the 5th fl., ffWhen driving, keep your doors locked and the windows closed. Make sure the 674 E. 149th Street, St. Mary’s Park Houses, Bronx gas tank is full. Maintain your car in good working order to avoid breakdowns. Ainsley Waddell case 2486/10 formerly associated with the ffAlways lock your car. Before getting into your car, check the back seat to make 9th fl., 393 Dumont Avenue, Van Dyke Houses, Brooklyn sure no one is hiding there. Prohibited as of April 21, 2010 ffAvoid leaving valuables in your car. Whenever pos- IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, Kevin Grant case 2591/10 formerly associated with the 3rd fl., sible, place items out of sight in the trunk of your DIAL 911 11 Lorraine Street, Red Hook West Houses, Brooklyn vehicle prior to reaching your destination. Never Angel Gonzalez case 2597/10 formerly associated with the leave packages in the passenger compartment (NON-EMERGENCY, 2nd fl., 50-41 Newton Road, Woodside House, Brooklyn unattended. DIAL 311) Kevin Harris case 2624/10 formerly associated with the 2nd fl., ffPlan your purchases in advance and carry only the 2-04 Astoria Blvd. Astoria Houses, Long Island City Help us fight terrorism, amount of cash or number of credit cards neces- Jermaine Wright case 2626/10 formerly associated with the report suspicious activity to sary to make the purchase. If you must carry a large 5th fl., 10 Avenue D, Wald Houses, Manhattan the COUNTER TERRORISM Edwin a/k/a Eddie Pedraja case 2733/10 formerly associated sum of money, divide the cash between your purse, with the 2nd fl., 70 Palidino Avenue, Wagner Houses, Manhattan pockets and wallet. HOTLINE: Ronald Rowson case 2040/10 formerly associated with the ffCarry your purse close to your body. Place one end 1-888-NYC-SAFE 10th fl., 2991 8th Avenue, Polo Ground Towers, Manhattan of the purse in the palm of your hand and the other (1-888-692-7233) Aaron Jack case 1875/10 formerly associated with the 5th fl., in the bend of the elbow. Never wrap the strap 2304 West 8th Street, Marlboro Houses, Brooklyn around your body. Tracy Campbell case 1912/10 formerly associated with the f 6th fl., 141 Norway Avenue, South Beach Houses, Staten Island fIf you are carrying a wallet, carry it in the breast pocket of your jacket or in your side pants Mark Netterville case 6579/10 formerly associated with the pocket. The rear pants pocket is the easiest to pick. 5th fl., 2745 Schley Avenue, Throggs Neck Houses, Bronx ffWhen in a restaurant, don’t leave your handbag over the back of your chair or on the floor. Nigel Cooper case 2297/10 formerly associated with the 4th fl., Don’t leave belongings unattended. 80 Paladino Avenue, Wagner Houses, Manhattan ffDon’t wait until you have reached your front door to look for your keys. Have them ready in Sean Brown case 2782/10 formerly associated with the 3rd fl., your hand. If a stranger is standing near your door, it may be a good idea not to go in until 110 East 99th Street, Washington/Lexington Houses, Manhattan the situation feels safer. Joseph Jackson case 2758/10 formerly associated with the ffIf you live in an apartment building, don’t buzz in someone who rings your bell until you 6th fl., 67-31 Kissena Boulevard, Pomonok Houses, Queens have verified who they are. This will help protect both you and your neighbors. Jose Berrios case 2498/10 formerly associated with the 1st fl., 50 Columbia Street, Baruch Houses, Manhattan ffIf you have elderly family members or neighbors, please remember to check in on them. David Shurland case 1158/10 formerly associated with the ffRemind children to be wary of strangers, including those on the internet. 5th fl., 426 West 27th Drive, Elliott Houses, Manhattan ffBe wary of con artists. Con artists use a number of ploys to trick you and steal your property. Emilio Osorio case 2603/10 formerly associated with the 11th fl., Some divert your attention while another picks your pocket, some pose as utility workers or as 296 Delancey Street, Baruch Houses, Manhattan a trades person to gain access to the inside of your home, while others conduct scams that are Anthony Lloyd case 2632/10 formerly associated with the 3rd fl., more elaborate involving several con artists. 3246 Bayview Avenue, Gravesend Houses, Brooklyn David R. Stallings case 2719/10 formerly associated with the 16th fl., 3080 Park Avenue, Jackson Houses, Bronx Help Out Your Neighbors! Akeem King case 2385/10 formerly associated with the 8th fl., 370 Bushwick Avenue, Marcy Houses, Brooklyn re you a resident and a NYCHA employee who also is bilingual? NYCHA needs your A assistance! In last month’s issue of the Journal, we told you about the Language Services Unit, which provides assistance in 37 languages to ensure that residents who are Limited English Proficient have meaningful access to NYCHA’s programs, services and activities. The Authority could not provide this service without the more than 230 employee volunteers who provide oral interpretation and written translation. If you are a NYCHA resident who also works for the Authority, you can join NYCHA’s Language Bank and help your neighbors who are Limited English Proficient. To volunteer or find out more information, please send an email to [email protected].

Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. The Housing Authority Journal November 2010 5 6 November 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

Public Housing Residents Recognize NYCHA NYCHA Social Worker Honored by Mayor Staff for their Outstanding Customer Service As part of Customer Service Week, Mayor Michael Bloomberg recognizes one employee from uring the first week of or evenings where Mr. Diaz is Resident: Reginald Bow- every City agency. NYCHA’s honoree for 2010 was DOctober, the New York City unreachable,” said Ms. Bergin. man, Brooklyn East District Saron Mullings, a Social Worker in Brooklyn in the Housing Authority (NYCHA), Chair and President of the Department of Social Services. Ms. Mullings works along with service providers Staff Citywide Council of Presi- with residents who have a history of mental impair- across the nation, celebrated member: dents, Seth Low Houses ment, and often are not able to advocate for themselves. “A National Customer Service Gloria “Joyce’s dedicated ser- lot of residents value someone taking an interest in them and Week. This annual event is Finkelman, vice as a resident relations understanding what they need,” she said. “I offer a listening devoted to recognizing the Deputy General Manager professional is the founda- ear and assist them by making the necessary referrals.” importance of customer service of Operations tion of smooth coordination excellence. NYCHA spoke Resident: Rosia Wyche, and keeping communications laughed, she called my But she said, ‘Yes, it can be with residents about the staff Brooklyn South District Chair, running between all NYCHA family. She kept my mind off done,’” said Mr. Lee. members who they feel provide Coney Island Houses departments, the Citywide of what was happening,” exemplary service. For more de- “Gloria is hands on and Council of Presidents and said Mr. Johnson. Staff tails, go to the “Residents’ Cor- never says she doesn’t have the resident leadership of member: ner” page on NYCHA’s website enough time. Even if it’s past NYCHA,” said Mr. Bowman. Staff Luis Soler, at www.nyc.gov/nycha. time for her to go home, she member: Deputy stays to work with residents to Staff Carol Director Staff try to address their concerns, member: Tannenbaum, of Bronx member: because she really cares about Diane Assistant Community Operations, Efrain them,” said Ms. Wyche. Lewis- Director, Department of Community Diaz, Hinton, Community Coordina- Risk Finance Division Operations Housing Manager, Isaacs Staff tor, Department of Community Resident: Omari Lee, Resident: Herma Williams, Houses member: Operations Woodside Houses Bronx North District Chair, Resident: Rose Bergin, Joyce Resident: John Johnson, Ms. Tannenbaum helped Pelham Parkway Houses Manhattan South District Harrison, Bronx South District Chair, set up a summer basketball “He helped us when the Chair, Isaacs Houses Deputy for Mott Haven Houses tournament. “Ms. Tannen- Resident Association first “Efrain always is the first to Resident Ms. Lewis-Hinton helped baum handled everything started, and still is instrumental arrive at work and the last to Relations, Department of save his life after a severe food within one week. Everyone in giving his time and talents leave. There are no weekends Community Operations allergy. “Diane joked, she else said it couldn’t be done. to me,” said Ms. Williams.

Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. The Housing Authority Journal November 2010 7 8 November 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

2010 NYCHA Garden and Greening Competition Awards NYCHA Board Meetings Below is a list of all First Prize winners in each category. For the full list that includes otice hereby is given that the New York City Housing Au- Second Prize, Third Prize and Honorable Mention winners, please go to NYCHA’s website Nthority’s (NYCHA) Board Meetings take place every other at www.nyc.gov/nycha. Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Board Room on the 12th floor of 250 Broadway, New York, NY (unless otherwise noted). The FLOWER Morning MANHATTAN BROOKLYN WEST QUEENS VEGETABLE Glory Garden, CHILDREN’S THEME CHILDREN’S THEME Garden of Venus, remaining meetings for Calendar Year 2010 are as follows: Breukelen Houses Mrs. Potts’ Garden, Ebony’s Garden, South Jamaica Houses Isaacs Houses Marcy Houses November 10, 2010 December 8, 2010 VEGETABLE Green QUEENS CHILDREN’S November 24, 2010 December 22, 2010 Thumb #1 Garden, BROOKLYN SOUTH BROOKLYN EAST THEME Grannie Mariner’s Harbor Houses FLOWER Breukelen FLOWER Bundles Bloomers Garden, Any changes to the schedule above will be posted here and Sight Garden, of Love Garden, Astoria Houses on NYCHA’s website at www.wnyc.gov/nycha to the extent CHILDREN’S THEME Breukelen Houses Tilden Houses Twinkle, Twinkle Little STATEN ISLAND practicable at a reasonable time before the meeting. Stars Garden, Union BROOKLYN SOUTH BROOKLYN EAST FLOWER Flowers These meetings are open to the public. Pre-registration of Avenue Consolidation VEGETABLE Paradise VEGETABLE of Happiness, Garden, Marlboro Green Thumb Garden, New Lane Shores speakers is required. Those who wish to register must do so BRONX FLOWER Houses Pink Houses at least forty-five (45) minutes before the scheduled Board Rain Forest Garden, STATEN ISLAND Patterson Houses BROOKLYN WEST BROOKLYN EAST VEGETABLE Dina’s Meeting. Comments are limited to the items on the Calendar. FLOWER Red Rose CHILDREN’S THEME Garden, Berry Houses BRONX VEGETABLE Buster Garden, Walt Lea’s Garden – Speakers will be heard in the order of registration. Speaking Maria’s Garden Whitman Houses Mi Bello Amanecer, STATEN ISLAND time will be limited to three (3) minutes. The public comment Vegetable Mix, Union Hope Gardens CHILDREN’S THEME Avenue Consolidation BROOKLYN WEST Hands in Nature period will conclude upon all speakers being heard or at the VEGETABLE Bengie’s QUEENS FLOWER Garden, Todt Hill expiration of thirty (30) minutes allotted by law for public BRONX CHILDREN’S Vegetable Garden, Garden of Zodiac, Community Center THEME “NAUTICA” Sumner Houses South Jamaica Houses comment, whichever occurs first. Garden, McKinley Copies of the Calendar are available on NYCHA’s website Houses or can be picked up at the Office of the Secretary at 250 MANHATTAN FLOWER Broadway, 12th floor, New York, NY, no earlier than 3:00 p.m. Sweet Success Garden, Manhattanville Houses on the Friday before the upcoming Board Meeting. Copies of MANHATTAN the Disposition also are available on NYCHA’s website or can VEGETABLE Polo be picked up at the Office of the Secretary no earlier than Grounds Senior Center Vegetable Garden, Polo 3:00 p.m. on the Thursday after the Board Meeting. Grounds Senior Center Any person requiring a reasonable accommodation in

Morning Glory Garden order to participate in the Board Meeting, should contact the in Breukelen Houses, the Office of the Secretary at (212) 306-6088 no later than five (5) citywide winner in the Flower business days before the Board Meeting. For additional infor- category, adds vibrant color to the building entrance. mation, please visit NYCHA’s website or call (212) 306-6088. The Housing Authority Journal November 2010 9

Senior Residents “Expand Their World” at Annual Benefit & Entitlement Fair

By Eric Deutsch ore than 1,500 senior Mcitizens living in public housing enjoyed a beautiful day at Riverbank State Park in Manhattan on September 21 A NYCHA senior resident has her at NYCHA’s Sixth Annual Bene- blood pressure checked during fit and Entitlement Fair. Focus- NYCHA’s Sixth NYCHA Benefits from Fete de Swifty Fundraiser Annual Benefit ing on the theme of “Expand and Entitlement Fete de Swifty, the annual fundraiser of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York Your World,” the Authority Fair on September City, took place on September 29, 2010. The event, which grossed more than 21, 2010. $650,000, raises money to support New York City’s Family Justice Center, and for placed special emphasis this the first time, NYCHA also was selected as a recipient. NYCHA’s proceeds will be year on the role new technolo- Manhattanville Houses in mance. “I played Wii bowling. used to enhance educational programs for young residents. From left to right are gies can play in improving the Manhattan, made sure she got But I do feel more relaxed syndicated columnist and event founder Liz Smith, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence Commissioner Yolanda B. Jimenez quality of life for seniors. information about iPads and when playing it at home!” and NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea. Margaret Wells, from iPhones. “When you go to a In addition to providing store, the staff never has pa- access to new technology, tience for novices, so it’s hard there also were workshops on to talk to someone to learn preventing identity theft, using Medicare Part D about these new products,” social networking websites, Open Enrollment Period Begins on Nov. 15 she said. “Elderly people don’t shopping on-line and digital Get Your Flu Shots If you are not satisfied with your current health plan, get out as much, so this fair photography. Other stations at Seasonal flu shots now are available. you may change plans during the Open Enrollment brings information to us and the fair included financial coun- These are the shots that normally Period, which runs from November 15, 2010, to there are people here who can seling, social services, crime are offered each year to prevent the December 31, 2010. If you have Medicare and have answer our questions.” safety, MTA Access-a-Ride, flu. The New York City Department not signed up for the prescription drug coverage Louis Perez, from Pelham Social Security, volunteering of Health recommends all seniors (Part D), we encourage you to do so during the Parkway Houses in the Bronx, and NYCHA’s gardening pro- should get this vaccine. For more Open Enrollment Period. Call 1-800-633-4227 to enjoyed some of the leisure gram. The fair also continued information call your doctor or health sign up, to change your plan or for general informa- computer activities set up its traditional focus on health professional. You also can call 311 to tion. To speak to a live person, say “Agent.” This around the fair, although he services, including screenings find out where flu shots are available. service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. said playing in front of a crowd for blood pressure, glaucoma may have affected his perfor- and glucose and foot care. 10 November 2010 The Housing Authority Journal

NYCHA Domestic Violence Resource Conference Highlights Causes, Prevention By Howard Silver resident Florine Bruce had a executive Steve Stoute that Several dozen organizations site for anyone who needed ublic housing residents specific topic she wanted to works to empower and inspire offered information, such as someone to talk to, easily iden- Pand NYCHA staff recently learn about. “I want to know women. Ms. Nelson-Small the Brain Injury Association and tifiable by bright yellow vests. received an intensive educa- what I can do to help protect frequently had attendees rising local Districts Attorney offices, Residents wanting assis- tion on a chronic problem – older people where I live. I to their feet and responding and 13 workshops offered tance with domestic violence domestic violence. NYCHA’s want to do something better to her moving message. In an topics such as the effects of do- issues may contact NYCHA’s Social Services Department’s for the community,” she said. exercise on self-reflection, she mestic violence on children and Social Services Department at ninth Annual Domestic The Executive Director asked the audience to look how substance abuse affects 212-306-3378, or New York Violence Resource Conference of the Foundation for the at themselves in an imaginary domestic violence. In addition, City’s Domestic Violence Hot- on October 9 provided more Advancement of Women mirror. “Do you see a reflection counselors were available on line at 800-621-HOPE (4673). than 700 attendees with a Now (FFAWN), Madeline worthy of love and respect?” day-long training on how to Nelson-Small, was the keynote she asked. “If not, scrape off recognize, prevent and over- speaker. FFAWN is an organi- impurities until you can see come domestic violence. zation founded by recording them. You must see someone Farragut Houses (Brooklyn) artist Mary J. Blige and record worthy of love.”

NYCHA Seniors Act, Sing & Dance at Annual Talent Show

From left to right, Frances Braxton, Henrietta Bryant, Myna Majors, Lois Credle and Al Jones draw laughs from the crowd during NYCHA’s 33rd Annual Senior Show on September 16 and 17, 2010. The original musical theater production, titled “Show Me The Green!,” focused on the Authority’s commitment to green initiatives and environmental responsibility. To learn more about the Senior Show or to ask about future auditions, call 212-306-2864.