Niagara Carrier - Fall 2014 by Niagara Falls Housing Authority

Niagara carrier The Official Magazine of the Niagara Falls Housing Authority

HOUSIN G LLS FA

Pressing Towards the Mark of Excellence

RIT THO Y • AU

• NIAGARA

OCT 2014 V17 Issue 4

le & P o s s i b ili REUNIONS PROMOTE A SENSE OF BELONGING MY HOME, MY CHOICE STYA: A KALEIDOSCOPE OF OPPORTUNITIES

Fall 2014

contents 2

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

COVER STORY: REUNIONS

SPOTLIGHT ON RESIDENTS

11 EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS 18 A WORD FROM OUR STAFF 32 IN THE KNOW 43 ADVANTAGE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM 45 CALENDAR 46 DIRECTORY

on the cover Center Court Reunion pictured: Bishop Stephan Booze (left) and LaVerne Morgan (right). Story Page 3.

N I A G A R A FA L L S H O U S I N G A U T H O R I T Y

Photo: Dan Cappellazzo

We Empower. We Enrich. We Build Strong Communities! Board of Commissioners Rev. Kevin Dobbs, Chairman Cynthia A. Bianco, Vice Chairman Vivian M. Watkins, Secretary Carmelette M. Rotella, Member Owen T. Steed, Member Jeff M. Paterson, Member Stephanie W. Cowart, Executive Director Jason J. Cafarella, Counsel

Anonymous Tip Line You can report suspicious or criminal activity anonymously by calling the NFPDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anonymous Tip Line at (716) 286-4711. For emergencies (716) 285-6961 Place a work order request (716) 284-9675 Visit our website www.nfha.org Email us nfha@nfha.org

The Niagara Carrier is published quarterly by the Niagara Falls Housing Authority, 744 Tenth Street, Niagara Falls, New York 14305 If you have any articles or announcements, please contact Kelly Mariano at (716) 285-6961. Contributors: Thank you to our staff for your articles and photos. Editorial management and creative design provided by Jackson Parker Communications LLC.

We are family. We are community. S t e p h a n i e W. C o w a r t , E x e c u t i v e D i re c t o r

Residents come together to reconnect and elevate heritage and life accomplishments.

s we see the close of another summer and enter into the fall season, I often reflect upon the family reunions and other gatherings that occur during these warm months. This summer the Niagara Falls Housing Authority witnessed two residential reunions that created a season of bonding as the committee members worked hard to plan the perfect reunion for former neighbors and friends that had become an extended family. I watched the warm embraces and lively conversations of current and former residents – often generations of families that came together to reflect and celebrate life accomplishments. Our staff looks forward to these gatherings and feels honored that the former residents, many who have moved on to successful careers, would take the time to return home to reminisce and celebrate life. Yes, the residents view themselves as part of an extended family and the NFHA housing as home. These residential families created

a community that was connected by their common struggles, hopes and dreams. The reunions are about family and community. They are built upon the same emotional blocks that draw family members to family reunions. Residents come together to reconnect and elevate heritage and life accomplishments.

“...the family is the corner stone of our society.” — Former U.S. President Lyndon Baines Johnson

stated, “the family is the corner stone of our society.” However, the words that strongly resonate and provide a deeper look into the importance of family and reunions are the words of Dr. Maya Angelou, “The love of the family, the love of a person can heal. It heals the scars left by a large society. A massive, powerful society.” To come home again to the warmth and security of family is inspiring and sends a message of a “job well done.” We dedicate this fall issue to the power of family and community.

My parents always taught my siblings and I that the power of family is the best foundation for life one can have. A family that loves, cares, and supports us provides a safety net that enables us to embrace life with confidence. Former U.S. President and master planner of the “War on Poverty,” Lyndon Baines Johnson, understood the importance of family when he

Stephanie W. C owart’s parent s, James L. Willia ms and Ada Lu cille Williams. Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

COVER STORY

Reunions Promote

a Sense of Belonging Two very important reunions took place in July and August: The Center Court Reunion (July 25 - 27) and the Griffon Manor Reunion (August 16) It’s all about the love of Community. Former Center Court residents and current Spallino Towers resident, Vivian Watkins, expresses the shared feelings of community the best. She states, “It’s so much more than a building, it’s a community.” 3

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

What actually defines a community? For some it’s just geography – the neighborhood in which they grew up. But for reunion attendees it is so much more. It’s an extended family that evokes a feeling of unity, identity and harmony. Sharing warm hugs, laughter and heartfelt memories, these reunions highlighted the importance of

COVER STORY community. For many, the Center Court and Griffon Manor communities served a vital role in offering camaraderie and acting as a support system. After all, the home is where we gather to create memories with family and friends and to find solace and comfort for ourselves. That’s just what these reunions did. The residents shared the importance of home and what it meant to their lives. Many believe today that obtaining a sense of community is harder and harder to obtain due to hectic schedules, people moving out of the city, and even technology. However, we are pleased to see that the feeling of community is alive and well in Niagara Falls. These reunions served to strengthen the family bond, provide a platform where residents can share traditions, get reacquainted with old friends, and pass along gems of wisdom and life lessons learned.

Ladies enjoying the Center Court reunion.

“It’s all about the people and coming together. It’s where our hearts are. Even though many have moved, they still come back. Center Court will always be our home,” — Center Court Reunion Committee President LaVerne Morgan A strong community benefits everyone, creating a more stable and supportive society. Tyrone Stewart, who organized the Griffon Manor Reunion, was a resident for over ten years. “The best thing about the reunion for me was seeing the generations. You see people that still live here, people from out-of-town, people you went to school with and people who helped shape who you are

Generations of families were represented at the Reunions.

today. You get to interact with their children and grandchildren. It makes you feel good and provides encouragement to see that everyone is doing good,” said Stewart. The Center Court Reunion was held over a three-day period, consisting of a meet-and-greet, Family Reunion Fun Day and Sunday Worship Services. People traveled from all over the country just to take part in the event. The event was free, as the committee held various fundraisers to make sure that everyone could attend. “I could not have done this without the hard work and dedication of my committee and I can’t thank them enough,” Morgan said. Niagara Falls Housing Authority Executive Director Stephanie W. Cowart provided an excellent summary, “These reunions prove that a strong community benefits everyone, it promotes unity, togetherness and create a sense of belonging.”

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

SPOTLIGHT ON RESIDENTS

H AT S OFF TO OUR GRADS! The Niagara Falls Housing Authority congratulates our 2014 High School Graduates:

Packard Court Kazian Mims Iman Mitchell Jasmine Sims

Jordan Gardens Quadree Ollison Tahisha Pryor Uniqua Briggs

We applaud your accomplishments and wish you continued success!

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

SPOTLIGHT ON RESIDENTS

We Recycle! This is the response you will receive if you ask the Niagara Falls Housing Authority residential managers, M. Anne Smith (Anthony Spallino Towers) and Marcia Massaro (Henry E. Wrobel Towers). “Our residents have been model examples for recycling. They embrace the opportunity to make a difference,” stated M. Anne Smith, manager, Anthony Spallino Towers. Smith added, “Spallino Towers has had a recycling program in place for years.” Spallino residents are informed about the recycling policy at orientation upon moving into the

be disposed. Each floor has a garbage closet that includes labeled containers for the recycled items.

apartments and during the monthly residential chats. Residents are provided flyers that list an array of garbage items that should be recycled and are directed where the various garbage items should

Marcia Massaro, manager of Henry E. Wrobel Towers, was also proud to share information about their plans to expand current recycling efforts. “We have introduced recycling to our residents in phases. Currently we have a shelf in our main garbage room where residents place newspapers and magazines,” stated Massaro. Wrobel Towers is now in the process of implementing a more comprehensive recycling program that will include an educational campaign.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

SPOTLIGHT ON RESIDENTS

My Home. My Choice. We continue our series of articles that tell the stories and experiences of Niagara Falls Housing Authority residents. This series is inspired by the national initiative, ReThink: Public Housing, created to build awareness, educate and inspire others about public housing in the U.S. The initiative encourages the public to consider the people and families in their own community who could be served by public housing. By sharing success stories,the initiative hopes to challenge negative perceptions. ABOVE; Bill Schultz points to Spallinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flower garden. 7

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

SPOTLIGHT ON RESIDENTS

In this issue, we profile Ms. Faron Travis and Mr. Bill Schultz. One word can describe both residents: motivated! However, that motivation is rooted by very different experiences and goals. Faron Travis Niagara Carrier readers were first introduced to Faron in our January 2014 column entitled “My Dream Wish List.” We were impressed and inspired by her vision for the future. What stood out was that many items on her wish list were goals to assist others.

How she contributes to the community Faron shared that she was also an ordained minister. She serves as an assistant to the Youth Pastor and Superintendent of Christian Education at the World Missions International Church. Her primary focus is to assist youth in finding their path to success and purpose in life.

Faron currently resides with her “I assist with training workshops and mother, who has lived in Niagara outreach. As a motivational speaker Falls Housing various times during I like to help youth determine how her life. Faron’s grandmother was a they fit into our world.” resident of Packard Court as a child after migrating with her family from Career and life goals the south. Faron is motivated by her impact on the lives of our future generations. After graduating from college, she worked with high school students in the Upward Bound program. She Faron Travis stated that she missed working Resident: with youth in an educational Packard Court setting. With joy in her voice, Faron Age: 27 explained that her ultimate goal is Employment: to become a licensed clinical social Substance Abuse worker and therapist; she’d like to Counselor own a Health and Human Services Education: business. BA Psychology (SUNY at “When working with youth I Buffalo); have observed that there are so Associate many social dynamics that kept in Theology the students from focusing and (Tabernacle Bible attaining their goals.” College) Faron’s next step is to obtain

additional professional credentials. She would like to complete the Joint MSW/MBA Program at the University at Buffalo. A family legacy of entrepreneurship Faron’s discussion about entrepreneurship revealed not only a current small business but the foundations of her entrepreneurial spirit. Her grandfather was her inspiration. She explained, “My grandfather always had a small business venture. He always told me that as long as you had a skill you have a way to make money.” In 2013, this entrepreneurial spirit provided her the courage to develop Slick Gal, a natural hair and body product brand. The name of her beauty business is in honor of her grandfather whose nickname was Slick. “My grandfather was always a man who took pride in his grooming and looks.” What do you like about living in the Niagara Falls Housing Authority community? I like the comfort and convenience the community provides. It’s nice to live in the city but at the same time be disconnected from many of the problems [of] living in an urban city.” What do you believe is the major misconception people

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

SPOTLIGHT ON RESIDENTS have about living in public housing? Faron’s voice became very serious as she answered this question. She stated that the biggest misconception is that some people assume if you live in affordable housing you are uneducated and unemployed, and do not have a purpose or talent. “I believe that people who come from humble beginnings possess the care and knowledge to make a contribution to help change the conditions of poverty. However, many just do not know how to make this happen.”

Bill Schultz The reason for his move to Niagara Falls Housing Authority Housing: Bill and his wife moved to Spallino Towers in 1998 because of his wife’s disability. He stated that from the beginning they knew that they could make Spallino their home.

Bill Schultz Resident: Anthony Spallino Towers (1998 – present) Employment: Retired Expertise: Residential gardener

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

What do you like about living in your residential community? Bill could not hold back his excitement when answering this question. He began by saying it starts at the top. “Anne, the residential manager, is great! She listens to people and is concerned about the residents.”

he was doing. Taking care of the residential flower gardens has expanded into a type of therapy for Bill and other residents as well. He told another story about David Clifford, a Spallino Towers resident, who helps him maintain the rose garden despite his disability as a dialysis patient.

“I really love it here.” Bill stated that he liked living in a secure, clean and well maintained building. He thinks it is very important that the rent and other expenses are affordable for seniors living on a fixed income. He also stated that he liked helping his neighbors who he described as family. How do you help build your community? From the front lawn to the entrance of Spallino Towers, one can see the floral beauty that Bill helped create. He has taken the lead in making sure the flowers around Spallino provide the beauty for residents and visitors. He not only volunteers his time, but also takes pride in purchasing flower plants and organic maintenance supplies for the area. Why flowers? “I try to bring a little beauty in the lives of people and hope it lifts their spirits.” Bill shared a story about Ellen, a 100-year-old former resident, who had watched him work the flower garden from her window. One day she told him that he was her entertainment. At this moment, Bill realized the importance of what

“The work is our gift to our residential family; it makes us feel useful.” If gardening was not enough, Bill has also taken on the responsibility of maintaining the main halls of two residential floors. “I buy all of my own cleaning materials. Anne keeps trying to reimburse me, but I refuse the reimbursement.” Bill stated, “I try to be independent and I like my own choice of cleaning products that produce the perfect floor shine.” What do you believe is the major misconception people have about living in public housing? Bill with a concerned face stated, “Sadly people believe everyone who lives in public housing are “degenerates”, “hasbeens”, and are on welfare.” “These beliefs are not true.” What people must realize is that everyone needs help sometimes.”

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

Students paddle their way to Environmental Leadership

Honeywell Adventures in Environmental Leadership

“I had so much fun learning to kayak, but I chickened out when they wanted me to hold a crayfish,” laughed participant Christa Fiori. Christa was just one of 60 students who participated in the Honeywell Adventures in Environmental Leadership summer program. This unique learning experience provided students the opportunity to explore our local waterways while learning about the environment. The two-day program was a successful collaboration

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

between the Niagara Falls Housing Authority (NFHA), Honeywell and Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper. “The Niagara Falls Housing Authority takes great pride in this collaboration,” said NFHA Executive Director Stephanie W. Cowart. “This is a unique learning experience designed to prepare today’s middle and high school students to become tomorrow’s environmental leaders. It opens the doors to environmental careers and employment opportunities while teaching participants the rich history and an appreciation for our waterways.”

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS Students paddled kayaks through Hyde Park Lake, Little River and Cayuga Creek with certified Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper instructors while learning kayak navigation such as the forward, sweep and draw strokes. Students were also introduced to bird biology and learned identification skills on nature hikes. Participants learned the importance of watersheds and environmental stewardship. Niagara Falls High School science teachers supported the outdoor, interactive, hands-on curriculum with classroom lessons and science experiments. Teacher Katherine Canterbury said, “It was wonderful to watch the students learn and grow and experience something new. I can safely say that every participant now has a greater appreciation and understanding of nature and environmental resources.”

a kayak and a canoe and it is something that my entire family and me love to do. In fact, kayaking is the fastest growing recreational activity in our area. My administration opened up Hyde Park Lake to kayaking. I congratulate each participant for taking the time to learn about our environment and all that our waterways have to offer.” We thank Honeywell and Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper for their vision, advocacy and work in protecting and restoring our valuable waterways.

The program concluded with a graduation ceremony celebrating each student’s achievement. Participants received certificates of completion, backpacks, notebooks, binoculars, water bottles and a Target gift card to be used to continue their learning experience. Niagara Falls Mayor Paul Dyster said, “We are so blessed to live here on the Niagara River. I have both

PHOTOS: Dan Cappellazzo Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Kayakers exploring the waterway. (photo Dan Cappellazzo); Avery T. Bates, Community Outreach Representative; Mayor Paul A. Dyster, Mayor of Niagara Falls, NY; ABOVE: 2014 Honeywell Adventures in Environmental Leadership Program Graduation. Students pose for graduation photo.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

Is your job search off to a slow start or getting stuck? Here are some quick, timesaving job search tips that will help your hunt for a new job go smoothly. BE PREPARED Have a voicemail system in place on your home phone and/or cell phone, and sign up for a professional email address. You can obtain a free email address through Gmail or Yahoo and use your first and last name (or some variation) so it sounds professional. Consider getting a separate email account to use for your job search, so you can stay organized. Put your cell phone number on your resume so you can be easily reached for a potential interview. BE MORE THAN PREPARED Always have an up-to-date resume ready to send – even if you are not currently looking for work. You never know when an opportunity that is too good to pass up might come along. If you’re not on LinkedIn yet, create a LinkedIn Profile and start making connections that can help you on your job search. DON’T WAIT If you are laid-off, file for unemployment benefits right away. You will most likely be able to file online or by phone. Waiting could delay your benefits check.

GET HELP Utilize free services that provide career counseling and job search assistance such as our SUNY ATTAIN Lab, college career offices, state Department of Labor offices or your local public library. CREATE YOUR OWN TEMPLATES Have copies of your resume and cover letter ready to edit. That way you can change the content to match the requirements of the job you’re applying for. Don’t send the exact same cover letter and resume to each job application; every position will require personalization. Microsoft Word users can download free templates for resumes, cover letters and email messages, which can be personalized for your own correspondence. REVIEW SAMPLES It’s always a good idea to look at sample letters and resumes to get ideas for your own job search materials. USE JOB SEARCH ENGINES Use job search engines, employment classifieds,

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS company sites, associations, and other sites with job postings for you. Utilize every resource available to ensure job search success. EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS Let the jobs come to you. Use job alerts on search engine sites to sign up and receive job listings via email. You can select what types of jobs you’re looking for and receive information on new listings. Once you receive these notifications, apply as soon as you can. REFERENCES READY Have a list of three references prepared at all time. This list should include their name, job title, company, phone number and email address. Be ready to provide

this for job applications and be sure to print a copy of your reference list and bring it with you to interviews. USE YOUR NETWORK Be cognizant of the fact that many, if not most, job openings aren’t advertised. Tell everyone you know that you are looking for work. Ask if they can help. GET SOCIAL Social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter can be a good way to find job listings before they are listed elsewhere. Plus, you can promote your candidacy using the social media tools that are readily available for free for job seekers and companies who are increasingly using social media for recruiting. – excerpt About.com

Looking for a career change? Need additional training? Looking for employment opportunities?

HELP IS AVAILABLE! CALL TODAY: (716) 285-5374

Whether you’re looking to complete your GED, striving to improve your skills, or looking for employment opportunities or a career change, Willie Dunn can help! Willie is the Niagara Falls Housing Authority coordinator for the Resident Opportunity and Self Sufficiency program, and he heads up many of the employment and job training resources that the NFHA has to offer. Give Willie a call at (716) 285-5374 to inquire about how you can get involved with professional development, job training, and career guidance.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

Get Microsoft Certified and Get Ahead!

J o s e p h B r o w n , I n s t r u c t i o n a l Te c h n o l o g y C o o r d i n a t o r, S U N Y AT TA I N L a b

If Microsoft certification is your goal, yet you lack even the basic etting ahead these computer knowledge, then we have days couldn’t be more ongoing classes for you. We use challenging. Finding the right Microsoft Digital Literacy to train opportunity can feel like an impossible even the most novice computer task. Employers seem to always look user. This is a 10-15 hour online for just a little more than what you course that you can take here in have to offer. If you’ve been looking the lab or in the comfort of your at the job classifieds, you probably own home. Digital Literacy covers notice that a lot of them seek people topics such as computer basics, who are skilled in Microsoft Word, GET AHEAD! the Internet and an introduction to Excel or PowerPoint. Seeing that The SUNY ATTAIN Word and Excel. At the end of the might make your stomach turn Computer Lab has been course is an assessment that you and make you think that you’ll in Niagara Falls since take at the lab and when you pass never be able to get a job like you get a certificate to take home that. So what do you do? Don’t 2004 and has helped with you that day. Digital Literacy abandon all hope. The SUNY many people just like gives you the foundation that you ATTAIN Computer Lab in the Doris yourself get the training need to build your Microsoft skills. W. Jones Family Resource building they need to find jobs Helping people attain their is here to help. We offer ongoing requiring Microsoft trained Microsoft certification is why we courses in Microsoft Word, employees. exist. Usually, professionals can Excel and PowerPoint. These are pay up to $1,000 for training and generally month-long courses that certification. We bring all of this to your area for free. take you from the basics all the way up to Microsoft We want to see you succeed and get those jobs that a certification. 91% of hiring managers consider require knowledge of Microsoft products. certification as part of their hiring criteria.

DON’T WAIT ANYMORE. The right opportunity is certainly possible. Accept the challenge and get ahead today. Call us at (716) 285-5374 and ask for Joe or Antoinette.

SUNY Attain Lab Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 9th Street Niagara Falls, NY 14305 Hours: Monday-Friday, 9AM-5PM

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

It’s Back-to-School Time! Here are some back-to-school safety tips: • Be sure your children know their phone number and address. • Make sure your children know who is picking them up from school or at the bus stop. • Tell your children to never talk to strangers. • Teach your children to obey all traffic signals whether walking or biking. • Remind your children to stay seated on the school bus at all times. • Teach your children proper playground behavior. • Help your children pack their backpack and pick out their clothes the night before school. • Teach your children to select healthy food in the cafeteria for lunch. • Help your children keep up with schoolwork. • Make a healthy breakfast for your children each morning. • Set a bedtime so your children get a good night’s rest. • Make full stops at stop signs and red lights before turning. • Be alert for students and pedestrians when driving near a crosswalk. • Obey crossing guards. • Have your foot covering the brake pedal and your eyes scanning the road when entering a marked school zone. • Obey the school zone speed limit. • When a school bus stops with its red brake lights flashing and/or its stop sign raised, you must stop until all kids are safely across the street and the bus lights stop flashing (unless the school bus is stopped on the other side of a multilane or divided highway). • Don’t tailgate a school bus. We wish all our children and youth a successful and safe school year!

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

Words of Wisdom from a Friend of the Niagara Falls Housing Authority Always believe in yourself until you convince yourself that you are wrong and headed in the wrong direction. It’s important that you convince yourself not some other person. All of your development and growth will lead to success if you do the right things, play by the rules and have good judgment and common sense. Remember, you will be able to do whatever you want to do in life with the help of Almighty God. Your Friend, Charles Torrence

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Holiday Money Saving Tips Patricia L. Barone, Deputy Executive Director With the holidays just around the corner, we all need to implement as many money saving tips as we can. Here are a few ideas to not only save on your pocketbook, but to share the warm spirit of the season. • If it’s not in your budget to send Christmas cards, don’t. A simple phone call can do the trick. Another idea is to cut old Christmas cards in half and send the pretty side as a postcard. Postcards require less postage than a regular card. • Use your children’s artwork or create your own to wrap gifts. The comic section of your newspaper can also make a nice decorative wrap. Use plain paper and cut out images from magazines. • When it comes to decorating, do it the old fashioned way.

Pop some popcorn and string it up all over the house. Bring in the great outdoors - use pine cones and acorns. Have your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews create holiday crafts and artwork. Not only does this make the children feel special, you can save the artwork and display it year after year. This is a great way to start a family tradition. • Read the sales ads and look for coupons. Take advantage of online deals.

• Entertain inexpensively. Get out the board games; the kids will love it! Borrow a new game from a neighbor. Get the family together and go Christmas caroling. Choose a holiday movie and watch it as a family. Make hot cocoa. Invite friends over to share stories, traditions and memories. • Bake cookies – make it a family affair. Wrap them and give them as gifts. Family and friends will love that you took the time and effort. • Check out holiday books from the library and read them together as a family. • Remember that the holidays are not about gifts. Make the effort to share your time and talents with someone in need. Happy Holidays!

Make an old-fashioned popcorn and cranberry garland STEP 1: GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES • Popped popcorn: You may want to pop your popcorn the day before you plan on making your garland so that it is less prone to crumble. • Cranberries: Look in the fruit aisle at the store, not in the frozen section. • Sewing thread • Scissors • Needle STEP 2: CUT YOUR STRING Decide how long you want your garland to be. Add 6 or so inches and double it. Cut

the thread. Thread your needle, then knot the two ends of the thread together. STEP 3: START THREADING Start threading your cranberries and popcorn on the string! If you come across a cranberry that is soft, save it for cooking. Keep adding cranberries, popcorn, and anything else you are using until you get near the end of your string. Remove your needle and tie another knot so everything is secure. Source: instructables.com

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Packard Court

Modernization and Maintenance Updates N a n c y H a l e y, D i r e c t o r o f M a i n t e n a n c e a n d M o d e r n i z a t i o n MAINTENANCE The chill is in the air and unfortunately it is time to say goodbye to summer. Our sincere thank you for keeping your lawns free of clutter to allow our lawn cutting services to complete their work. Please make sure that you secure your personal items that cannot be stored inside so they do not get blown around the development and possibly create damage to the exterior of the buildings and siding. Please remember to properly store your seasonal items; no grills, propane, etc. should be stored within your home.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

development. Another reminder: if your walk is not clean, your mail carrier may not deliver your mail. We urge you to do your part to assist us during the winter months.

We have just a couple maintenance reminders with the winter and snow on the way. Please remember that our maintenance staff strives to do an excellent job in keeping your streets and main walks clear from snow and ice. Also, remember that it is your responsibility to clear the snow from the main walk to your door if you live in a family

Further, please remember to be patient and understanding of our staff during these cold months and again do your part to assist with the snow removal and keeping your sidewalks clear. Please understand that during a snowfall, the maintenance crew must also complete their regular daily maintenance and therefore, we request that you do not call the work order line to request snow removal or a snow removal update.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF We will do our best as quickly as possible to accommodate everyone. We ask that when you hear our plow trucks in your area, be mindful to move your vehicle to allow for uniform and complete snow removal. If you are unable to shovel your walk due to a medical condition, it is your responsibility to provide a doctor’s note to your site manager in order for your apartment to be added and/or remain on the snowshoveling list. These notes must be updated quarterly and provided to your site office. NFHA policy states that if your family has a teenager, male or female, age 13 or older, they will be expected to remove the snow from your walk. Please present your notes and/or questions to your Site Manager. The work order line attendant will not verify nor arrange snow removal for you. Each site office provides a list of those approved for snow removal by the NFHA staff and/or the removal from the list as well. If you live in a family development, remember it is important in the very cold weather to keep your faucets cracked open slightly to keep water running to prevent the pipes from freezing. Make sure that all your windows are in the tracks properly, locked and kept closed as well. As always, please remember that if you have a problem during the day that needs the attention of maintenance, it is best to notify the office prior to 4:30 pm, so it can be taken care of promptly. For example, many times a resident will call emergency service and

state they have been without water since noon. We want to take care of a problem right away and certainly do not want anyone to suffer discomfort. So please notify the office as soon as you think you may have a problem. Doing so will allow us to correct the problem immediately, eliminate potential damage caused by waiting and most importantly prevent any inconvenience or discomfort to you.

IMPORTANT! CALL IN YOUR WORK ORDERS We greatly appreciate all work orders to be called into our work order line at 284-WORK (9675). PACKARD COURT EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS Please continue to report any and all problems you may have encountered with your windows, doors, siding, etc. Please call the work order line and make sure that your need for repair is documented. On some of the buildings, we are experiencing stones coming loose, so please continue to report these occurrences to us as soon as you are aware of their existence. Not all work will be deemed contractor-related and premature damage found to be caused by mistreatment will be repaired by our maintenance staff – and the resident of record will be charged accordingly. The annual HUD mandated UPCS inspections have been completed at Packard Court for this year and if there were necessary work orders generated for needed repairs within your

home – you will receive a notice in your NFHA mailbox requesting entry by our maintenance team. Please make sure that your furnace room is kept clutter free. The area around your hot water tank and furnace must be accessible at all times. Please watch for any NFHA announcements for site work coming within the next few weeks. We will be repairing asphalt, concrete sidewalks and conducting landscaping improvements to the Packard Court grounds. AIR CONDITIONER REMOVAL All air conditioners should be removed from your windows and stored with your platform until next spring. As a suggestion, you may want to write a reminder on your April 2015 calendar to put your name on the installation list. All billing questions are to be directed to your Site Manager and not to the work order line. CENTER COURT – HOPE VI PHASE 1 AND PHASE II RENTAL HOMES Our NFHA Occupancy Department (285-6961) or the Beloved Community Office (285-8050) can provide information regarding these 215 beautiful homes. REAC INSPECTIONS – JORDAN GARDENS AND DORIS W. JONES FAMILY RESOURCE BUILDING The Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building (DWJ) and Harry S. Jordan Gardens units will be REAC inspected this fall. The actual dates for this mandatory inspection have not been determined yet. Apartments to be inspected will be randomly selected on the morning of the inspection. If your

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF apartment is among those selected, a NFHA management staff member will accompany the inspector to your unit. All selected residences must be entered, whether you are home or not. You will receive more information with a detailed checklist of HUD’s inspection requirements. Although the Housing Authority staff inspects all apartments annually, we ask that you please take a moment to review the items listed below and check your apartment: Refrigerator must be totally clean and door must close properly. No mildew buildup on the gaskets. Stove Top/Oven/Hood Fan: ALL burners and oven MUST WORK and light completely. All areas must be clean and grease free. Please have stove burners and pans in place. If your stove top or oven are found to be dirty and inoperable – you will be charged $25.00. All light fixtures must work and there must be NO EMPTY LIGHT BULB SOCKETS. All electrical outlets and light switches must be in good working order, with cover plates in place. NO missing covers or cracked outlets. All smoke detectors must be in proper working order. A “chirping” sound is an indicator that the battery needs to be replaced. Call for Aid Emergency Pulls MUST be accessible. Do NOT tie cords up. Bedroom, bathroom, and entry doors must be able to close completely. Please remove any obstacles stopping the doors from closing and latching. There should be no cords running across the floors that may create a tripping hazard including cable wires, telephone cords, or electrical cords. 21

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

Bathroom – fixtures, walls and ceilings must be free of mildew and soap scum. Bathroom exhaust fans must be in working order. Good Housekeeping Standards must be observed – your apartment should be clean throughout. Please remove clutter or excessive storage so all of the rooms, closets and windows are accessible for the inspection. All dryers must be vented to the outside. In addition, all appliances that are not in use must be removed from the apartment (not just unplugged and pushed aside). Screens and Windows – ALL SCREENS must be in good repair (not torn or damaged). SCREENS must be in the windows. WINDOWS must be clean, closed securely and able to lock. All sink and tub stoppers need to be seen. Make sure sink traps are not leaking, and faucets in the bathroom and kitchen shut off completely. Basement laundry tubs and faucets must be in good working order as well. Window and doors in your living areas and bedrooms MUST NOT BE BLOCKED by furniture (headboards, dressers, entertainment centers, etc.) Rooms must have at least two (2) means of egress. FOR EVERY BLOCKED EGRESS, YOU WILL BE CHARGED A FEE OF $25.00. All rooms and staircases must be free and clear of any tripping hazards, including cables cords running upstairs and crossing at top of stairs, in front of doorways or in hall. Cords should be secured out of the walking path or removed. All wall repairs, such as cracks, must be reported, patched and repainted. Furnace room – stored items should be organized neatly, with no clutter on the floor in front of

the hot water tank or furnace. NO COMBUSTIBLE ITEMS, INCLUDING CLEANING SUPPLIES, SHOULD BE STORED NEAR FURNACE AND/OR HOT WATER TANK. Yard and garbage areas must be cleaned up. Remove any items that are no longer needed from yards (i.e. rusty and/or broken barbecue grills) and place them in the dumpster. Stack outdoor items neatly in the rear of your unit. If you have a ceiling fan that was not installed by a licensed electrician – it must be removed immediately. If a licensed electrician installed your fan, proof of such installation must be submitted to the office immediately.

WORK ORDERS CALL IMMEDIATELY FOR ANY/ ALL ITEMS IN YOUR HOME THAT ARE IN NEED OF REPAIR. Dial carefully: 284-WORK (9675) Please cooperate with our service contractors that are working in and around your homes to ensure that they can complete their assignments efficiently. There will be asphalt paving upgrades, concrete sidewalk and trip hazard upgrades, tree trimming, top soil and seed placed throughout our developments to name only a few enhancements to ensure that we maintain excellent curb appeal. CONTACT US In closing, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Maintenance/ Modernization Department at 2856961. Thank you for your help to achieve our mission of providing the best housing possible in our community.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Your Responsibility as a Resident Angela L. Smith, Senior Housing Manager

Dear Residents: Your lease is your agreement with the Niagara Falls Housing Authority. Do you know what’s in your lease and the statement of policy?

part of the premises or of the development.

Below are a few sections from the lease that you should know: SECTION 12: Resident Obligations: The resident shall be obligated: • Not to assign the lease or to sublease or transfer possession of the premises. • Not to provide accommodations for boarders or lodgers. • To comply with all obligations imposed upon residents by applicable provisions of Federal, State or local law, building codes and housing codes materially affecting health and safety or otherwise. • To keep the premises, adjacent ground and other such areas as may be assigned to resident’s use, in a clean, orderly, and safe condition. This includes keeping front and rear entrances, walkways and yards free of debris and litter. • To act and cause household members and guests (whether or not such person’s presence on the premises is then known

Please read your lease and the sections of the statement of policy that were given to you during your orientation. by the resident or the resident is aware of the conduct of such persons) to act in a manner which is legal, orderly and which will not disturb the neighbors’ peaceful enjoyment of their accommodations and will be conducive to maintaining the development in a decent, safe and sanitary condition. • To refrain from and to cause the household guests to refrain from, destroying, defacing, damaging, or removing any

SECTION 14: NFHA Obligations: The NFHA shall: • Maintain the buildings and common areas and grounds of the development, not otherwise assigned to residents, in a clean, decent and safe and sanitary condition in conformity with the requirements of local building and housing codes and applicable regulations of guidelines of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. • Make necessary repairs to the dwelling unit with reasonable promptness. • Post schedules of fees for services, repairs and utilities and pose rules and regulations in the NFHA offices, which are incorporates by reference into the lease and to furnish such documents to residents and applicants upon request. Please make sure that your household members and visitors understand the rules and regulations. If there is a section of the lease that you do not understand, please do not hesitate to contact me at (716) 285-5381.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

STYA: A Kaleidoscope of Opportunities The STYA program provides our future leaders with the opportunity to thrive and transition to adolescence successfully.

erspective is everything, and oftentimes looking at things through a different lens can make all the difference. Despite the startling rates of violence and pregnancy among teens, there is a definitive bright side. This bright side comes in the form of the Niagara Falls Housing Authorityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYA program. STYA stands for Successfully Transitioning Youth to

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

Adolescence, and it focuses primarily on delaying the onset of adolescent pregnancy and childhood. The STYA program is relatively new. It launched in 2013 and the initiative is being run in almost 20 programs across New York State. STYA heavily focuses on populations with adolescents ages 9 to 12 that have high rates of adolescent pregnancy.

isn’t to promote abstinence, per se. But its purpose is to promote responsible sexuality. The high risk of adolescent pregnancy within the area makes STYA’s involvement with local youth so important. By engaging kids in positive experiences and teaching them life skills through learning and playing, children become less likely to engage in the risky behavior that is often caused by low self-esteem.

LEFT: STYA students proudly showing their award badges; STYA students, facilitators, and volunteers at the Youth Power Summit; Making homemade pizzas at the culinary institute. ABOVE: Breakdancing class with Marcelo Lopez. Through education, activity, and community activism, the STYA program is working its magic right here in Niagara Falls. The program is open not only to children in the Niagara Falls Housing Authority, but also to students in the Niagara Falls community. In the past year, the NFHA’s STYA programming has included a trip to the Strong Museum of Play, a community garden experience with the Cornell Cooperative Extension’s nutrition program, and participation in the Beautify Niagara program to clean up the local area like empty lots and pocket parks. Lens of education STYA members may not be inside of a classroom, but they’re definitely doing their fair share of learning. Whether taking a break dancing class with Marcelo Lopez or learning how to cook a pizza at The Culinary Institute, STYA provides an out-ofthe-box educational experience for

local youth. These programs promote developmental assets through creative activities that inspire the children to live successful, healthy lives at home and at home. Lens of community involvement STYA participants get involved with their community in a variety of ways. STYA students, volunteers, and facilitators attended the Youth Power Summit, which was their first field trip as a group. The Summit was at Bennett High School in Buffalo, NY and allowed youth to gain knowledge about goal setting, financial literacy, peer pressure, and career development. In addition, STYA programming has included recycling efforts throughout the city of Niagara Falls, encouraging local youth to take pride in the area that they call home.

The STYA program is relatively new so there aren’t many statistics on how successful the program is in and of itself. But if you look at the statistics of the thousands of children who benefit from out-of-school programs, it is reasonable to believe that STYA will help participants avoid teen pregnancy, violence, and common vices like smoking and underage drinking. Through positive programming, great role models, and building friendships with peers, the STYA kids get to experience Niagara Falls through a kaleidoscope of opportunities that they may not have otherwise.

FIND OUT MORE For an overview of the STYA summer program’s experiences, please visit the July 2014 edition of the Niagara Carrier (print or online) on pages 21, 22.

Lens of responsible sexuality The purpose of the STYA program

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Health Insurance Changes for 2015 Every year, Medicare makes changes to their medical coverage and what that coverage will cost. 2015 will be no exception.

Steve Haefner

edicare does not cover everything. Therefore it is necessary to have additional medical insurance to supplement Medicare coverage. With very few exceptions, the only time you may add or change supplemental coverage to your Medicare coverage is during the annual open enrollment period. Open enrollment for choosing a new plan for 2014 is from October 15th through December 7th, 2014. This is the time when you may review the offerings from various insurance providers, including your current provider and make a change in your coverage. Your new plan selection will take effect January 1. If you make no changes, your plan will remain the same. There exists a wide variety of insurance companies that provide supplemental Medicare coverage. Within each of these companies, there is an assortment of plans to cover the costs over and above the coverage Medicare provides. Included among these are the Medicare Advantage plans many people are familiar with such as Community Blue, Encompass65, and Senior Blue. Another part of Medicare that changes each year is Medicare 25

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

Part D. This is the part of Medicare that covers prescription drugs. Your Part D plan may be part of your Medicare Advantage plan or may be a stand alone program. If you currently have a Part D plan, you may find that your current plan will not cover you for 2014 or your plan will not pay for all the medications your physicians may have prescribed. Be aware and be an educated medical consumer. It is important to carefully review all information you receive in the mail. You do not want to be caught without coverage if your current plan will not be covering you for 2014. At the same time, you need to be wary of telephone and mail solicitations from insurance providers who will try to sell you a Medicare Advantage and/or Medicare Part D plan which will not meet your needs, cover the medications you take, or be accepted by your physician or the hospital you use.

Need more information? Meet with the experts. Sorting out all the medical information and all the changes that occur every year can be very daunting. Representatives from the Niagara County Office For The Aging, New York Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC), and The Medicare Advantage Plans will be at Spallino Towers on Monday, November 3 at 1:00 p.m. and at Wrobel Towers on Thursday, November 6 at 12:30 p.m. Make sure you are there to learn about health insurance, prescription coverage and to take this great opportunity to ask questions. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns about any information you receive in the mail, do not hesitate to call Steve Haefner at 285-7812 or Sam Pulliam at 286-9248.

GET HELP SORTING IT OUT WHERE AND WHEN: Spallino Towers on Monday, November 3 at 1:00 p.m., and Wrobel Towers on Thursday, November 6 at 12:30 p.m.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Let’s Focus on the Positive Feelings of Fall M . Anne Smith , Ma n a g e r, A n th o n y S p a llin o To w e rs

all has officially arrived! The autumn foliage is absolutely beautiful as the colors are changing and leaves are falling. We also get to enjoy the fruits of our labor as we reap the plantings of spring and summer. In celebrating this wonderful time of harvest, we are now preparing for Thanksgiving and the December holiday season. Therefore, we will soon be entertaining and enjoying the company of friends and family, while being a “good neighbor” to our residential community. However, despite your best efforts at maintaining diplomacy, the time may arise when you feel it is necessary to approach your neighbor(s) with a sensitive matter – such as making a polite request to respect others. If their response is not cooperative, contact your site manager. Remember: everyone has the right to the peaceful enjoyment of their home.

“If it’s very painful for you to criticize your friends — you’re safe in doing it. But if you take the slightest pleasure in it, that’s the time to hold your tongue.” – Alice Duer Miller

• The bench in the lobby is for pick up and drop off only. Residents are more than welcome to meet in the Recreation Room for social conversation. • Smoking is only allowed in your apartment and/or 100 feet from the front entrance of your residence. • Remind your guests of the NFHA’s designated parking areas. Unauthorized vehicles will be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. • Be conscientious about noise that might disturb your neighbors, such as music, very loud talking, etc. • Remember Laundry Room rules: wipe out machines after use, remove lint from dryer trap, and never leave clothing unattended for hours at a time. • Respect your neighbor’s property and privacy.

Listed below are a few “house rules” that should encourage courteous and considerate behavior, as well as respect for your neighbors: • No loitering in the lobby and vestibule; people should be able to enter and exit the building without obstruction.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Energy Conservation Tips for Renters J o n D ’ A m i c o , M a n a g e r, B e l o v e d C o m m u n i t y

s we start to think about the onset of yet another winter in WNY, you can use some of these tips to help you be more energy efficient. Ultimately saving energy = saving money. Not to mention the global effects of reducing our carbon footprint.

Lighting is one of the easiest places to start saving energy. • Replacing your five most frequently used light fixtures or the bulbs in them with ENERGY STAR qualified lights can save more than $65 a year in energy costs. ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) provide high-quality light output, use 75% less energy, and last 6–10 times longer than standard incandescent light bulbs, saving money on energy bills and replacement costs. • Remember to always turn off your lights when leaving a room. Turning off just one 60-watt incandescent bulb that would otherwise burn eight hours a day can save about $15 per year! Use your programmable thermostats to automatically adjust your home’s temperature settings when you’re away or sleeping. 27

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

• When used properly, a programmable thermostat with its four temperature settings can save up to $150 a year in energy costs. Proper use means setting the thermostat at energy-saving temperatures without overriding that setting. You should also set the “hold” button at a constant energy-saving temperature when you’re away or on vacation.

Consumer electronics play an increasingly larger role in your home’s energy consumption, accounting for 15 percent of household electricity use. • Many consumer electronics products use energy even when switched off. Electronics equipment that has earned the ENERGY STAR helps save energy when off, while maintaining features like clock displays, channel settings, and remotecontrol functions.

• Unplug any battery chargers or power adapters when not in use (like your cell phone charger!). • Use a power strip as a central “turn off” point when you are done using equipment. • Even when turned off, electronic and IT equipment often use a small amount of electricity. For home office equipment, this stand-by or “phantom” power load can range from a few watts to as much as 20 or even 40 watts for each piece of equipment. Using a power strip for your computer and all peripheral equipment allows you to completely disconnect the power supply from the power source, eliminating standby power consumption. A ten minute shower can use less water than a full bath. • With a new 2.5 gallon-perminute (low-flow) shower head, a 10-minute shower will use about 25 gallons of water, saving you five gallons of water over a typical bath. A new shower head also will save energy — up to $145 each year on electricity — beating out both the bath and an oldfashioned shower head. • To avoid moisture problems, control humidity in your bathroom by running your ventilating fan during and 15 minutes after showers and baths. Make sure all air registers are clear of furniture so that air can circulate freely.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF • If your home has radiators, place heat-resistant reflectors between radiators and walls. In the winter, this will help heat the room instead of the wall. During cold weather, take advantage of the sun’s warmth by keeping drapes open during daylight hours. To keep out the heat of the summer sun, close window shades and drapes in warm weather. Wash your laundry with cold water whenever possible. • To save water, try to wash full loads or, if you must wash a partial load, reduce the level of water appropriately. • Hot water heating accounts for about 90 percent of the energy your machine uses to wash clothes — only 10 percent goes to electricity used by the

washer motor. Depending on the clothes and local water quality (hardness), many homeowners can effectively do laundry exclusively with cold water, using cold water laundry detergents. Switching to cold water can save the average household more than $40 annually (with an electric water heater) and more than $30 annually (with a gas water heater). Don’t over dry your clothes. If your dryer has a moisture sensor that will automatically turn the machine off when clothes are done, use it to avoid over drying. Remember to clean the lint trap before every load. Dry full loads, or reduce drying time for partial loads. Try to dry loads made up of similar fabrics, so the entire load dries just as the cycle ends. Many dryers

come with energy-saving moisture or humidity sensors that shut off the heat when the clothes are dry. If you don’t have this feature, try to match the cycle length to the size and weight of the load. A dryer operating an extra 15 minutes per load can cost you up to $34 every year. The lint trap is an important energy saver. Dryers work by moving heated air through wet clothes, evaporating and then venting water vapor outside. If the dryer cannot provide enough heat, or move air sufficiently through the clothes, they will take longer to dry, and may not dry at all. One of the easiest things you can do to increase drying efficiency is to clean the lint trap before each and every load. This step also can save you up to $34 each year.

Saving Energy = Dollars & $ense SAVING ENERGY TIP

ANNUAL SAVINGS

Purchase ENERGY STAR qualified lights.

$65

Turn off just one 60-watt incandescent bulb that would otherwise burn eight hours a day.

$15

Use a programmable thermostat with 4 temperature settings.

$150

Purchase a new shower head.

$145

Switch to cold water for laundry purposes.

$40

Clean the lint trap on the dryer before every load.

$34

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Emotional Spending Evelyn Buffone, Junior Accountant

Do you find yourself without any money by the end of the week? Do you wonder where all your money went? Do you find that you don’t seem able to maintain the budget you worked so hard to set up? You may be falling into the trap of emotional spending. Shopping has become our country’s favorite pastime. We are told over and over again that we deserve that new flat screen TV, or new furniture, or a new car through commercial advertising. And, we are subjected to commercials more than ever. Marketers do research to find out how many times you need to see or hear the commercial before you will buy, and studies have shown that consumers will buy after three to five times of seeing the same message. It’s a lot like memorizing: If the message is repeated enough times, the consumer will buy. Because of advertising, it is important that we keep our defenses up against those advertisers, who wish to get our money for themselves. Otherwise, our own human nature will push us toward spending more than we should. Here are a few techniques to help you resist emotional spending and the marketer’s advertising:

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

Avoid impulse buys. This doesn’t just mean ‘don’t buy that candy bar at the checkout.’ It also means taking the time to think very clearly about the purchase you’re going to make. Wait 24 hours before making a purchase. If, after 24 hours, your mind is still telling you that you really ‘need’ this purchase and you know you really can’t afford it, try to wait a week or even a month before making the purchase. Limit the amount of commercials you watch. As mentioned above, studies have shown that people will buy after enough times of hearing the same message over and over. If you think you might be prone to temptation, limit your exposure to advertising messages – don’t listen, watch, or surf as much. Recognize your own behavior. Some people get an emotional ‘high’ out of shopping or may be trying to escape negative feelings in another area of their lives. You may end up with a case of buyer’s remorse – and still have to deal with the situation that prompted you to buy in the first place.

Don’t try to keep up with the Joneses. Watching other people’s purchases can lead to envy and can make us feel bad about ourselves when we don’t have the ‘stuff’ that others have. Envy is a negative emotion, not to mention you may not have any real idea of the financial picture of the person you are envying. Unless you can see the financial position of others, you may be envious of an empty bank account and relationship struggles. Don’t assume you know the truth – you probably don’t, and you cannot buy happiness anyways! Stop putting a value on STUFF. Instead, focus on all the good in your life. Don’t rely on financial bailouts from family and friends. A one-time bailout is okay, but if you’re finding that you need more than one, you need to look at the choices you make when you’re making purchases. If you are in a relationship, don’t play the game of spending because your partner spent. This will only lead to disaster and unhappiness within the relationship. If you find that your partner is spending beyond the means of the relationship, ask your partner to consider financial counseling or consider if the relationship is worth your future financial security.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month Let us all light a candle, keep in our memories, and lift our voices for the many, men, women and children who have lost their lives to domestic violence. Khaleelah Shareef WHAT IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE? Domestic violence is a repeated pattern of behavior that an abuser uses to gain power and control over the victim through physical, sexual, emotional, verbal and/or financial abuse. The abuse is ongoing and usually escalates. Domestic violence occurs in families and/ or intimate relationships in which people are living separately or in the same household and between people in present or former relationships. Domestic violence is

perpetrated regardless of age, income, education, religion, sexual orientation, culture or race. -Domestic Violence Network

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence created Domestic Violence Awareness Day in October 1981 to bring together advocates working to end violence against women and children. The first observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month took place in 1987 and was subsequently endorsed by Congress in 1989. Every October the issue of domestic violence is highlighted in local and national venues all over the country.

Recognizing the Red Flags Emotional and Economic Attacks: Destructive Criticism/ Verbal Abuse: Name-calling, mocking, accusing, blaming, yelling, screaming, making humiliating remarks or gestures. Pressure tactics: Emotional, guilt tripping, manipulation, and telling you what to do. Disrespect: Putting you down in front of other people, attacking your character or the character of those you care about. Abusing Trust: Lying, withholding

information, cheating, and being overly jealous. Breaking Promises: Having a pattern of not following through. Emotional Withholding: Not respecting feelings, rights or opinions. Minimizing, Denying, and Blaming: Making light of your concerns, saying the abuse didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen, saying you or someone else were the cause for their behavior. Economic Control: Not letting you work, refusing to give you money or

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF taking it from you. Self –Destructive Behavior: Abusing alcohol or drugs, threatening forms of self-harm, deliberately saying or doing things that will have negative consequences. Isolation: Preventing you from seeing friends or relatives, monitoring phone calls, telling you where you can and cannot go. Harassment: Making uninvited visits or calls, following you, embarrassing you in public, refusing to leave when asked. Intimidation: Making angry or threatening gestures, use of physical size to intimidate.

Destruction: Destroying your possessions, punching walls, throwing and/or breaking things. Threats: Making and/or carrying out threats to hurt you or others. Sexual Violence: Degrading treatment based on your sex or sexual orientation, or using force or coercion. Physical Violence: Being violent to you, your children, household pets or others, slapping, punching, grabbing, kicking, choking, pushing, biting, and/or burning. Weapons: Use of weapons, keeping weapons around which frighten you, threatening to harm you or those you love.

HELP IS AVAILABLE If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, seek help. You are not alone! • Niagara Falls Police

Department, Domestic Violence Unit: (716) 286-4570 • Emergency Shelter Information: (716) 286-6894 • Family and Children’s Services: (716) 285-6984 • Family Justice Center: (716) 558-7233

WE HAVE A LOT TO CELEBRATE! The Niagara Falls Housing Authority celebrated its 72nd Anniversary on September 2, 2014!

We Empower. We Enrich. We Build Strong Communities!

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

IN THE KNOW IN THE KNOW is “All About You”; Keeping you informed about NFHA and community news, training opportunities, job information, and events that will entertain and inform.

Your Safety is a Priority Electrical cords can be a hazard in your home In addition to needing to be kept out of sight, electrical cords need to be kept out from underfoot (to prevent tripping). And perhaps most importantly, electrical cords should be kept in good condition so they don’t become fire hazards. Here are some tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Electrical Safety Foundation International: • Keep unprotected cords out of the path of foot traffic and furniture to prevent fraying, overheating and tripping. • Never run a cord under a rug. It prevents the cord from releasing its heat and could lead to a fire. • Don’t leave cords dangling anywhere where they can be

pulled down and tripped over. • Make sure there is no crimping or pressure on cords, and don’t force them into small spaces or behind furniture. Over time this could lead to a breakdown of the cord’s insulation. When using cord-bundling devices, such as Cable Turtles or plastic spiral wire wrap, avoid cramming too many cords together. Keep the bundle loose. • Never use staples or nails to attach cords or cord bundlers to a surface, such as a baseboard or a wall. They could puncture the insulation and create a shock or fire hazard. • Don’t overload outlets or extension cords with too many

•

appliances or appliances that have too much wattage (like space heaters, microwave ovens). Check the maximum capacity of an extension cord and make absolutely sure you don’t exceed it. Don’t use an adapter to get an extension cord with a threeprong plug into a two-prong outlet. Don’t plug extension cords together. Instead use one long enough for your purpose. Don’t use an extension cord to plug in a power strip. Instead buy a strip with a longer cord. If a cord is hot to the touch, don’t use it.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

IN THE KNOW

The Niagara Falls Housing Authority strives to enrich, empower and build strong communities. The following initiatives are a few community projects in which we participate.

HICCup: Creating a Healthier Niagara Falls

he Niagara Falls Housing Authority is a key partner in the Create a Healthier Niagara Falls Collaborative’s application to become a Health Initiative Coordinating Council (HICCUP) community. The organization is hosting a national competition to identify five communities to compete over five years for the greatest improvement in five measures of health. Niagara Falls was selected as one of the five contenders from a highly competitive field of 42 applications received from 24 states.

HICCup, a nonprofit founded by angel investor Esther Dyson to encourage community led innovation that results in healthier people and places. Earning a spot in the five-year contest, the Collaborative will receive support from HICCup and a network of partners in the areas of health data/measurement, consumer- and community-based health solutions, and innovative health financing strategies. This research project will measure the impact of coordinated, community-wide initiatives, while creating new models and markets for the production of health.

The initiative is sponsored by

“The idea behind the program is not

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

just to make a measurable difference in five places, but to design and deliver a comprehensive approach to health that can be replicated broadly,” said Rick Brush, CEO of HICCup. “Together with our partners, five communities will point the way to better health and financial sustainability.” In addition to the charitable support provided by Esther Dyson the project receives support from the New Venture Fund, in-kind resources, and extensive field research and development among a growing group of guiding organizations, partners and communities.

IN THE KNOW

One Region Forward Promoting more Sustainable Forms of Development

he Niagara Falls Housing Authority is a partner in the One Region Forward initiative. One Region Forward is a broad-based, collaborative effort to promote more sustainable forms of development in Erie and Niagara counties – the Buffalo Niagara Region – in land use, transportation, housing, energy and climate, access to food, and more. It combines research and public engagement with planning and action to help us meet the combined economic, environmental, and social challenges of the 21st century. The primary deliverable of One Region Forward will be a Regional Plan for Sustainable Development, a federally recognized document that will give our region priority status for funding opportunities today and into the future. This will serve as a practical roadmap for improving

Please continue to follow new developments on the NFHA’s Facebook page, the website (nfha.org) or check with your residential manager. mobility, promoting more efficient land use patterns, strengthening our basic infrastructure, growing a 21st century economy, ensuring broad access to healthy food, protecting housing and neighborhoods, and mounting our region’s response to the challenge of global climate change. But this is more than just a plan. One Region Forward will push implementation by bringing together

key factors to advance community priority projects that will produce lasting benefits for both our economy and quality of life. It will prepare our civic and business leaders to make smart decisions by providing online tools and technical assistance to show how sustainability can work here. Most importantly, this effort is about empowering the people of Buffalo Niagara to be a part of the process in driving positive, sustainable change for their communities. Residents of the Niagara Falls Housing Authority Community were invited to share concerns and ideas at a community meeting in March 2014. Please continue to follow new developments on the NFHA’s Facebook page, the website (nfha. org) or check with your residential manager.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

IN THE KNOW

Come and enjoy a free, fun-filled, family evening! A healthy neighborhood starts with a healthy family. A healthy family starts here.

he Independent Health Foundation’s Good for the Neighborhood program features free health screenings, information on health insurance, ask the expert, free fruits and vegetables, health and wellness information, fun activities for kids, healthy cooking demonstrations, hands-on activities, games, raffles and much, much, more! The Niagara Falls Housing Authority teamed-up with the Independent Health Foundation in 2006 to provide the Niagara Falls community with access to health information and wellness resources. The program is FREE and helps individuals and families make better healthcare choices through a variety of wellness initiatives.

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 23, 2013 5:00 pm–6:30 pm WHERE: Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls For more information and/or to register, please call the Independent Health Foundation at (716) 635-4959.

4th District Legislator Owen T. Steed, Sr. and the Mental Health Association of Niagara County Present

Youth Suicide Prevention Crisis Response Training TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2 10:30 AM–NOON Niagara Falls Housing Authority, Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls. For questions and/ or to register, please call Legislator Steed at (716) 990-6518.

A free, 90-minute informational program offering tools, resources and guidance for school administrators, teachers, parent groups, youth leaders and resident councils. We offer positive ways to assist others on self-love, self-worth and suicide prevention. Suicide is happening all over the world to both young and old, rich and poor. Join us as we learn ways to help overcome mental illness and help our youth and our community!

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

“One of the secrets of life is to make stepping stones out of stumbling blocks.”

IN THE KNOW

Renters Insurance: Big Benefits, Small Price Without renters insurance, you have no coverage for personal property loss or damage.

he first time most people think about insurance is with their first car or home. Usually, this is because the law or bank requires us to do so. Although renter’s insurance is usually not required, it is just as necessary to have.

have enough property to make a renters insurance policy worthwhile. But, take a minute to think about what you own and what you have to lose, including: clothing, furniture, televisions, entertainment systems, computers, iPods, jewelry, phones, sporting equipment, etc.

Renters insurance is a type of insurance that protects the renter as well as their property. Just like other forms of insurance, customers will choose their amount of coverage and deductible, and then be required to pay a monthly premium based on these, as well as a few other factors. The amount of coverage that a renter should choose should account for the value of their belongings and offer enough coverage that they are adequately protected in case of an emergency.

Renters insurance provides protection if your personal property is damaged, stolen or destroyed.

Many renters think that they don’t need insurance because the landlord already has insurance on the building…right? But, what they might not realize is that the landlord’s policy doesn’t cover any of your personal property. Just think what would happen if: • Your apartment burned down? • A thief broke into your house? • A guest slipped and injured himself in your kitchen? • The home you’re renting suffered water damage? Too often, people think they don’t

Don’t make the mistake that many people do and think that the person who owns your apartment will have insurance and that you are automatically taken care of. Fact is, their insurance will cover the physical home but not your belongings or liability. Also, do not make the mistake of thinking you don’t need renters insurance because your stuff isn’t valuable. Unless you have enough money put away to cover theft or liability costs, you need to make sure you are covered. Renters insurance is a fraction of the cost of homeowner’s insurance and depending on the coverage you need, you may find the cost is pretty low (could be about $100 a year, depending on your needs). With many insurance companies, if you bundle your renter’s insurance with something like automobile insurance, you may even get a discount.

Five Reasons Why You Should Protect Yourself with Renters Insurance: 1. Renters insurance will cover the cost of belongings lost in a fire, due to lightning, a windstorm or hailstorm. 2. Renters insurance can protect you from theft. Some policies even cover you if your identity is stolen (identity theft). 3. If your home is damaged and uninhabitable, renters insurance can cover the cost of other living arrangements. Most people don’t have the money to pay for a hotel while their home is being repaired. Luckily, renters insurance will cover the cost of a customer’s living arrangements until their home is again inhabitable. 4. Renters insurance covers the costs of accidents that occur on a renter’s property. If a person is hurt while on your property, you may be held liable, even if you aren’t necessarily to blame. The liability coverage in a customer’s policy will protect them from being sued for medical bills or other costs. 5. If a person loses important items while traveling, renter’s insurance can cover that too.

Excerpts from Geico & freefrombroke.com. Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

IN THE KNOW

Niagara Falls... GET OUT AND General Election: Tuesday, November 4, 2014 6 AM – 9 PM NOT REGISTERED TO VOTE? IT’S NOT TOO LATE! Voter registration forms are available at all Niagara Falls Housing Authority communities, including the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building and the Packard Court Community Center. Your voter registration form must be postmarked by Friday, October 10, 2014 to be eligible to vote in this year’s General Election.

To register you must: • Be a U.S. Citizen. • Be 18 years old by December 31 of the year in which you file the form. • Note: You must be 18 years old by the date of the general, primary or other election in which you want to vote. • Not be in jail or on parole for a felony conviction. • Not claim the right to vote elsewhere.

Every vote counts! Have your voice heard!

Summer Enrichment Program Receives Boost from Key Bank On July 2, Kyle Health from Keybank presented Stephanie W. Cowart, Executive Director of Niagara Falls Housing Authority, with a check towards the Summer Enrichment Program.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

IN THE KNOW

Tract I and Tract II Update Submitted by Jon M. Williams, Brightfields Corporation

Brightfields Corporation, owner of Tract I & II, has completed the remediation and restoration of Tract I. We are pleased to report that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Department of Health are reviewing the final reports for the Tract I parcel. The remediation of Tract II should be completed by November 2014, and the final grading and site restoration will be done by early spring of 2015. Brightfields is working closely with the City of Niagara Falls and community leaders on the development of the park. TOP: Brightfields Corporationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development plan ABOVE: Site remediation

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

IN THE KNOW

Memorial Awarded County Cancer Services Program

iagara Falls Memorial Medical Center has been selected by the New York State Department of Health to administer the Niagara County Cancer Services Program. The program, which previously operated under the auspices of the Niagara County Department of Public Health, oversees the delivery of breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening and diagnostic services to eligible uninsured and under-insured residents. Memorial will work with other Niagara County hospitals, health care providers and communitybased organizations to conduct community outreach and provide screening, diagnostic and case management services along with public education. Working together, providers will also help eligible individuals diagnosed with breast, cervical, colorectal or prostate cancer obtain prompt, comprehensive treatment. “The Niagara County Health Department did an exemplary job of overseeing this program for the past several years,” said Memorial Program Administrator Anne Passalugo, MPH. “We will look to build on their efforts to help uninsured and under-insured individuals by working with our partners to promote education,

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

early intervention and screening on a countywide basis.”

and outreach events and assist in promoting program goals.

“We are very pleased that our colleagues at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center are going to be continuing this very important and essential service for all of the communities of Niagara County. Our partnerships over the years have shown us how committed Memorial is to high quality care for everyone that they serve,” Niagara County Public Health Director Daniel J. Stapleton said.

For information and screening referrals or other information about the Cancer Services Program of Niagara, individuals can call the Cancer Services Program State Call Center at 1-866-442-CANCER (2262).

Niagara Falls resident and former Niagara County Legislator Renae Kimble will serve as program coordinator and case manager. Cassandra Jackson, a former medical center community health worker, has been appointed outreach coordinator while Darlene Muehlbauer, who has been with Niagara County Cancer Services since 2006, will continue as data/ intake manager. The Niagara County Cancer Services Program will reach out to all current Cancer Services Program partners as well as Memorial’s 50 Niagara Health Home partners, local businesses and the medical center’s countywide network of 10 New York State of Health insurance navigator sites. Partners will distribute educational materials, sponsor or host screening

Dr. Mangat joins Memorial’s primary care team Simmanjeet Mangat, M.D., has joined the growing team of primary care providers at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. A graduate of Government Medical College in Patiala, India, Dr. Mangat subsequently completed residency training in Medical Biochemistry and Genetics. She recently completed a second residency in Internal Medicine at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where she was chief resident. She is a member of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Mangat is accepting new patients at the Niagara Falls Memorial Primary Care Center, 620 10th St., Suite 704, Niagara Falls. To schedule an appointment, call (716) 278-4499.

IN THE KNOW

Free, Universal Pre-Kindergarten Extended Program at the Niagara Falls Housing Authority

Openings are available! ABOUT THE PROGRAM

LOCATIONS

• Child must turn 4 years old on or before December 1, 2014. • It is a full-time program, Monday through Friday. There is a 2:00p.m. dismissal on Tuesdays. • This is a literacy rich program that is designed to help young children enter school ready to learn and succeed. • Transportation is NOT provided. The child’s parent(s) are responsible to get the child to and from school. • Children must be toilet trained, unless documentation of a medical condition is presented.

HOW TO APPLY: Applications may be obtained at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth St., Packard Court Community Center, 4300 Pine Avenue, and the Niagara Falls Board of Education, 630 66th St. For questions please call (716) 285-5374.

The Niagara Falls Housing Authority operates two Universal Pre-Kindergarten programs in collaboration with the Niagara Falls City School District. Locations are as follows: • Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14305 • Harry F. Abate Elementary School, 1625 Lockport Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14305

Public Housing Champions

LEFT: NFHA Executive Director Stephanie W. Cowart speaks with housing champion, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, D-Calf. CENTER: Housing champion Congresswoman Joyce Beaty, D-OH. RIGHT: Housing champion Congressman Keith Ellison D-MN.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

IN THE KNOW

You’re Invited… 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Feast The Niagara Falls Housing Authority in collaboration with Niagara County Legislator Owen T. Steed will sponsor the 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Feast on Monday, November 24, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls. Come and enjoy an old fashioned Thanksgiving feast complete with all the trimmings-turkey, stuffing, green beans, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, collard greens, salad,

rolls and an assortment of homemade cookies, pies and cakes. The event will also feature musical selections, poetry readings, skits and liturgical dances from some of our area’s top performers. This event is FREE and open to all Niagara Falls Housing Authority residents and to any individual or family in need.

WHEN: Monday, November 24, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. WHERE: Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls.

How much do you know about Thanksgiving? Take this fun quiz. 1. According to the Butterball corporation, it is recommended that you thaw a wrapped turkey in the refrigerator how long per 4 pounds of bird? a. One hour per 4 lbs. b. 8 hours per 4 lbs. c. One day per 4 lbs. d. 4 hours per 4 lbs. 2. Thanksgiving is celebrated only in the United States. a. True b. False 3. What was the first department store to hold a Thanksgiving parade? a. Montgomery Ward b. J.C. Penney’s c. Gimbel’s d. Macy’s 4. Which President was the first to establish Thanksgiving as a legal national holiday to be held the 4th

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

Thursday in November? a. Abraham Lincoln b. Franklin D. Roosevelt c. Thomas Jefferson d. James Madison 5. The term “cornucopia” means what? a. Tall corn b. Greek God of Corn c. Horn of Plenty d. A traditional thanksgiving feast 6. What was the original name for the pilgrims? a. Puritans or Separatists b. Partisans or Dividians c. Settlers or Colonists d. Journeymen or Seekers 7. The Indians who were invited to the Thanksgiving Feast were of the Wampanoag tribe. Who was their chief? a. Massasoit b. Pemaquid

c. Samoset d. Squanto 8. How fast can a turkey run? a. 7 mph b. 11 mph c. 18 mph d. 25 mph 9. How many pilgrims were on the Mayflower? a. 92 b. 102 c. 122 10. The first Thanksgiving in 1621 was believed to have lasted how many days? a. 1 day b. 3 days c. 7 days

Answer Key: 1.c 2.False 3.c 4.b 5.c 6.a 7.a 8.d 9.b 10.b

IN THE KNOW

Niagara Falls Housing Authority Insurance Group

2014 Fire Prevention Week Fire Safety Poster Contest:

“Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives – Test Yours Every Month!”

he Niagara Falls Housing Authority – in collaboration with the Housing Authority Insurance Group, National Fire Protection Association and local fire departments – is sponsoring its annual Fire Safety Poster Contest. Fire Prevention Week 2014 takes place October 5 – 11, 2014 and the theme is “Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives – Test Yours Every Month!”. Fire departments in the U.S. respond to thousands of home fires every year. It’s important to have a plan in place to keep families safe. Young residents are asked to become the Family Fire Marshall for their home and put together a Family Action Plan to help keep their family safe. An important part of the plan is testing all smoke alarms on a regular basis since having working smoke alarms gives families time to escape a fire. The Family Fire Marshall’s plan could also include outlining an escape route or determining a family meeting spot. It’s time to sound the alarm! Get your family involved! Everyone has a role in creating a Family Action Plan. We are asking each Family Fire Marshall to create a poster about their Family Action Plan, with a special focus on testing their smoke alarms.

Contest Rules • All posters must reflect the theme – “Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives – Test Yours Every Month!” • Only the following materials may be used: markers, paints, crayons and colored pencils. • Posters must be original artwork. No tracing or stenciling is allowed. • Standard size poster board/paper (22” x 28”) should be used. • You must be a Niagara Falls Housing Authority resident between the ages of 6–18. Please print your name, address, telephone number and age on the back of your poster. Posters may be submitted to your site office, the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street or the Packard Court Community Center, 4300 Pine Avenue. Cash prizes will be awarded in three age categories: 6–9, 10–14, 15–18 $50 for first place, $30 for second and $20 for third! Deadline is Friday, October 10, 2014.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

ADVANTAGE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Unique After School Program A Karate expert A local celebrity chef A motivational speaker reminding students “No Dream is Impossible” This is a partial list of the abundance of talent and experiences open to students who attend the weekly after school program operated by People and Possibilities, Inc. in collaboration with the Niagara Falls Housing Authority and the Niagara Falls City School District The interactive program offers cooking classes, yoga instruction, fitness classes, dance, karate classes, selfesteem building classes, SAT Prep, volunteer opportunities and much, much, more! A REVIEW OF THE 2014 – 2015 INSTRUCTORS – a wealth of information and experiences: Life Coach Marsha McWilson instructs Youth Empowerment Training providing motivational speaking, etiquette classes, career building, self-esteem building and community service opportunities. NYS certified teacher Allen Q. Cowart instructs Civic Engagement. He engages new

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

Student cooking lesson under Chef Bobby Anderson’s direction. PHOTO: Niagara Gazette

SIGN UP YOUR STUDENT! The program operates from October through June and is held Monday – Friday at Niagara Falls High School (2:45 pm – 5:45 pm) and at LaSalle Preparatory School (2:30 pm – 5:30 pm). Applications for the 2014 – 2015 school year are available at all Niagara Falls Housing Authority communities, Niagara Falls High School and LaSalle Preparatory School. Please contact Khaleelah Shareef at (716) 278-0228. OR CALL 716-285-5374 for a list of classes and programs.

leaders to pursue success, while addressing educational, social and economic equality in the electoral process. In addition, Mr. Cowart teaches participants on how to be engaged in the democratic process and guides students on how to have a voice in the problems and solutions of our society.

Elanda Harris instructs “drill team” dance instruction and teaches how music moves the mind, body and soul. Willie Price instructs the “No Dream Is Impossible” program to help students develop their own road map to building self-esteem

and self-awareness. The program uses a unique approach (the 4 W’s – Who, What, Where and Why), which takes the students through a series of exercises that enables them to know, understand and recognize the reality of their life goals. NYS Certified Teacher Summer Chapman instructs the “My Personal Best” program. This is a personal development program with age appropriate lesson plans on the subject matters of selfesteem, personal hygiene, healthy choices, healthy living, healthy eating habits, the importance of education and positive decision-making.

Chef Bobby Anderson who appeared on the show “Hell’s Kitchen” and who has had several segments on the Food Network provides cooking classes, introducing students to different foods, teaching students how to read food labels, understand the food pyramid and explaining why we need a variety and balance of foods to stay healthy. Robert Heisner, a certified 8th degree black belt provides martial arts instruction. This program demonstrates how the practice and attitude of traditional martial arts applications can be related to many problems associated with teens today.

FREE LINE DANCING CLASSES The Niagara Falls Housing Authority is offering FREE Line-Dancing classes at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building. All ages are welcome to participate. For more information, please call (716) 285-5374.

WHEN: Wednesdays from 5:30 pm–7:30 pm.

In Loving Memory Henry T. Beaman December 11, 1957 – September 5, 2014

WHERE: Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls.

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

Calendar of Events WEDNESDAYS

OCTOBER 1–JUNE 5

OCTOBER 23

Free line dancing lessons 5:30 pm–7:30 pm. Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

Advantage After School Program for middle and high schoolers 2:45 pm–5:45 pm. Niagara Falls High School, 4455 Porter Road, Niagara Falls & LaSalle Preparatory School, 7436 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls

“Good for the Neighborhood” Wellness Program 5:00 pm–6:30 pm. Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

SEPTEMBER 8–JUNE 5 Living Large and I Can Read After School Tutorial Programs For children and youth in grades K-12. 3:00 pm–6:00 pm (Tues. 2:30 pm–6:00 pm). Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls & Packard Court Community Center, 4300 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls

OCTOBER 2 Youth Suicide Prevention Crisis Response Training 10:30 am–12 noon. Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

NOVEMBER 4 Get out and vote! General Election 6 am–9 pm.

NOVEMBER 24 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Feast 6:00 pm. Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls Housing Authority 2014 Holiday Schedule Our offices will be closed on the following dates: October

December

13 – Columbus Day

25 – Christmas

November 11 – Veterans Day 27 – Thanksgiving Day 28 – Day After Thanksgiving

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

EMERGENCY SERVICES Should you have a need for emergency services, you are required to call our emergency answering service at (716) 285-6961.

Directory (716) 285-5374 General Manager: Annie Fields-Chapman Packard Court Community Center 4300 Pine Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14301 (716) 278-0228 Director: Khaleelah Shareef Senior Services Program (located at Anthony Spallino Towers & Henry E. Wrobel Towers) (716) 285-7812 Coordinator: Steve Haefner NFHA SUNY ATTAIN LAB (Located in the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building) Site Supervisor: Joseph Brown (716) 285-5374

HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US

Executive Offices 744 Tenth Street Niagara Falls, NY 14301 (716) 285-6961 Anthony Spallino Towers 720 Tenth Street Niagara Falls, NY 14301 (716) 285-5505 Manager: Margaret Anne Smith Henry E. Wrobel Towers 800 Niagara Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14305 (716) 284-9129 Manager: Marcia Massaro Packard Court 4200 Pine Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14301 (716) 285-6111 Manager: Ida Seright Beloved Community 1710 Calumet Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14305 (716) 285-8050 Manager: Jon D’Amico Harry S. Jordan Gardens 2910 Highland Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14305 (716) 285-5381 Senior Public Housing Manager: Angela L. Smith Doris W. Jones Family Resource Bldg. 3001 Ninth Street Niagara Falls, NY 14305

For emergencies (716) 285-6961 Place a work order request (716) 284-9675 Visit our website www.nfha.org Email us nfha@nfha.org

Anonymous Tip Line You can report suspicious or criminal activity anonymously by calling the NFPD’s Anonymous Tip Line at (716) 286-4711.

Let’s Chat 2014 Resident/Management Chat Schedule Anthony Spallino Towers Meeting to be held in the Rec. Room, 6:00 p.m. Dec. 16, 2014

Packard Court Meeting to be held at the Packard Court Community Center, 6:00 p.m. Dec. 18, 2014

Henry E. Wrobel Towers Meeting to be held in the Rec. Room, 6:00 p.m. Dec. 16, 2014

Beloved Community Meeting to be held at 1710 Calumet Avenue at 6:00 p.m. October 29, 2014

Harry S. Jordan Gardens Meeting to be held at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 6:00 p.m. Oct. 23, 2014

Niagara carrier OCTOBER 2014

We Empower. We Enrich. We Build Strong Communities.

Connect with us! KEEP IN TOUCH WITH US on facebook. WATCH OUR WEEKLY TV SHOW, “People and Possibilities” on Channel 21 (Our Schools Channel).

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Young girls preparing to step dance; Family members enjoying time together; Center Court Reunion attendees; The joy of sharing a meal with family and friends; BOTTOM LEFT: Griffin Manor Reunion attendees.