Niagara Carrier - Spring 2016 by Niagara Falls Housing Authority

Niagara carrier

APR. 2016 V19 Issue 2

The Official Magazine of the Niagara Falls Housing Authority

HOUSIN G LLS A F

lit

Pressing Towards the Mark of Excellence

RIT THO Y • AU

• NIAGARA

Embracing Neighborhood Revitalization

P o ssi b i

ANNUAL POVERTY CONFERENCE LET’S TALK CONFERENCE BLACK HISTORY MONTH PROGRAM MALE SUMMIT

on the cover

Spring 2016

contents 2

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

EXECUTIVE BULLETIN

COVER STORY

MY HOME. MY CHOICE.

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

Tulip Corporation Grand Breaking

13 IN THE KNOW 29 A WORD FROM OUR STAFF 49 CALENDAR

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

50 DIRECTORY

We Empower. We Enrich. We Build Strong Communities! Board of Commissioners Jeffrey M. Paterson, Chairman Cynthia A. Bianco, Vice Chairman Vivian M. Watkins, Secretary Rev. Kevin Dobbs, Member Carmelette M. Rotella, Member Owen T. Steed, Member Frank Soda, 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

Cover photo: Tulip Corporation groundbreaking In March we witnessed the impact of community collaboration. The Niagara Carrier is published quarterly by the Niagara Falls Housing Authority, 744 Tenth Street, Niagara Falls, New York 14301. 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.

Motivated by the Love of 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 r e c t o r I am encouraged. I was re-energized by the dedication to make a difference while hearing voices of change at the 2016 Poverty Conference. Committed and well known change agents such as Rev. Joseph L. Levesque opened the conference in a moving call to action prayer. The Keynote Speaker Paul Hogan, Executive Vice President of the John Oishei Foundation, expressed passionately an overview of the overwhelming community need that requires a collective and strategic approach to help eradicate the conditions that create poverty. It was a perfect setting for a meaningful discussion led by some of the region’s change agents. The selection of the venue, the Niagara Falls Housing Authority’s Doris W. Family Resource Building, our gift to the community, had a deeper meaning. Many are not aware that the Family Resource Building,fondly referred to as “The Stream”, was established as a venue to host programs and events that empower Niagara Falls Housing Authority residents as well as the Niagara Falls Community. The building’s mission, etched boldly outside the facility, reminds the community that the building was built to provide residents and those in most need of assistance “access” to empowerment - a tool box of knowledge and care to enable them to become self-sufficient. Poverty – Why We Must Act? Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity, it is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be

great. YOU can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom. -Nelson Mandela It is obvious that 2016 is a year of action. However, we will need to broaden the lifeline to not only strengthen the safety-net but to expand it so we can reach more agents of change. I am encouraged by the rising voices of our talented youth. There is an opportunity for students that attend our colleges to get involved and join the movement. We need their creativity and energy. The mission ahead reminds me of the moving lyrics from the Oscar winning song “Glory” written by the award winning rapper, Common. He wrote that “no one can win the war individually - it takes the wisdom of the elders and young people’s energy. Welcome to the story Victory.” I do believe there will be victories. Together as caring and collaborative community foot soldiers we will push forward to break down more barriers. Too many members of our community are suffering. As agents of change, we have the power to reach hearts and minds to encourage action to help remove as many obstacles as possible. I am inspired. I am thankful. I am blessed. I am honored to be part of the transformation that will take place in our city. Stephanie W. Cowart

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EXECUTIVE BULLETIN

NFHA Designated High Performer Awarded a score of 95 out of 100 points by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC), the Niagara Falls Housing Authority has been designated a HIGH PERFORMER! Nationally, housing authorities scoring 90 points or higher on the assessment are designated as “High Performers” which is an indication of excellence in the overall management and operations of a housing authority. The Niagara Falls Housing Authority was evaluated using four criteria: 1. The physical condition of the public housing properties 2. Financial condition of the agency 3. Management and operations 4. Capital improvements

The Public Housing Assessment System (PHAS) measures the performance of housing agencies (PHAs) that administer the Public Housing program. HUD has put this evaluation system in place to assist in the delivery of services in public housing and to enhance trust in the public housing system among public housing agencies (PHAs), public housing residents, HUD and the general public.

Respect is earned. Honesty is appreciated. Trust is gained. Loyalty is returned.

Stay updated on what’s happening in our community

Like us on Facebook! Search: Niagara Falls Housing Authority

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COVER STORY

Poverty is so Much More Than a Lack of Money 2 0 1 6 Po v e r t y C o n f e r e n c e Fo c u s e d o n Co m m u n i t y Le d S o l u t i o n s “God bless those who will not find food today,” said Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., President Emeritus of Niagara University as he provided the invocation at the 4th Annual Poverty Conference held at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building on March 4, 2016. Levesque added, “This is a call for action to become agents of social change.” Niagara Falls Housing Authority Executive Director, Stephanie W. Cowart, provided a welcome that thanked the community leaders for their dedication to helping to alleviate obstacles that result in poverty and highlighted the need for more community change agents of all ages. Keynote Speaker Paul Hogan, Executive Vice President of the John Oishei Foundation, inspired and motivated the attendees to continue the work collectively and strategically. He stated, “Social challenges cannot be addressed, let alone solved, in isolation from education, employment, transportation and health. They are all interrelated.” I guess it goes without saying that the root causes of poverty are complex and there are no simple solutions. Poverty is so much more than lack of money. The interactive conference focused on the sharing of information and resources to develop solutions. Mr. John Klein-Geltink, Vice President of Operation Sharing of Ontario, discussed how his organization shifted the traditional food pantry paradigm to empower recipients of the community. Instead of collecting and warehousing food and then giving it to people in need, Operation Sharing set up a new program called Food for Friends. People donate at the cash registers of their local grocery stores where cashiers invite them to give a quarter each time they shop. The donations are passed on to those in need as food gifts cards. 5

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Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M. Other breakout sessions addressed the landscape of transportation services in Niagara County, including barriers and challenges, roadblocks to employment, creating pathways out of poverty and financial literacy. The attendees focused on developing concrete strategies and solutions that could help to ease economic distress in our community. Former Hell’s Kitchen contestant Chef Bobby Anderson operates a culinary vocational training program called F-Bites. The program strives to provide exemplary work ethic in children as young as nine. Chef Anderson work strategically to keep the students engaged through high school while offering technical training for one of the region’s workforce

Audience at the 2016 Poverty Conference growth. F-Bites participants took the stage and demonstrated both their soft skill knowledge and culinary talents, preparing a low cost healthy meal for attendees. Chef Anderson stated that, “85% of program graduates are employed or enrolled in higher education.”

What’s Next? While, there is no one simple answer to solving the poverty problem in our community, the conference proved that if we tap into the strengths and resources of our partners, we are closer to finding solutions.

The Region’s Poverty Report Card Niagara Falls is the largest city in Niagara County. The 2010 Census reported 50,193 people; 22,603 households; and 12,495 families resided in the city. A 2014 study between the John R. Oishei Foundation and the University at Buffalo’s Regional Institute stated that roughly 22,425, or nearly one out of every two Niagara Falls residents were “doing poorly or struggling financially.” About 10,900 Niagara Falls residents, or more than 20 percent, live on incomes below federal poverty levels ($23,500 for a family of four). The report also stated that, “Poverty is growing, while Niagara Falls’ population is shrinking.”

We Thank Our Sponsors Major support was provided by sponsors, the Niagara County Coalition for Services to the Homeless Buffalo/Niagara Falls, Erie/Niagara Counties Continuum of Care in partnership with Niagara University and a host of other dedicated sponsors and supporters.

The city’s overall population has declined by 9 percent since 2000 while the number of city residents living in poverty has grown by 2 percent over the same time period.

Team of Collaborative leaders dedicated to community solutions: Legislator Owen Steed; NFHA - Executive Director, Stephanie W. Cowart; Deputy Superintendent Niagara Falls City School District, Mark Laurrie; Amber Dixon; President of Beilein Consulting LLC, Natalie Beilein; Father (Rev.) Joseph L. Levesque, C.M. - President Emeritus, Niagara University; ED of the Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M. Institute for Civic Engagement at Niagara University, Dr. David Taylor

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SPOTLIGHT ON RESIDENTS own apartment for over three years, she moved to a larger apartment to raise her four children. Almost nine years ago to the day, Vicki moved. Now residing at the Authority’s Henry E. Wrobel Towers senior development, she simply said, “I’m home.” What is the best thing about living in Wrobel Towers? “Well, let me first say that I love it, love it, love it and I love the people too. I have made so many wonderful friends. This is where I plan to spend the rest of my life.”

Vicki Waters

My Home. My Choice. “I’m Home” 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 people to learn about public housing in the U.S. The initiative encourages the public to think about how people and families in their own community are served by public housing. By sharing success stories, the initiative hopes to challenge negative perceptions. We Embrace the Diversity of Our Residents Every My Home. My Choice. profile is an educational journey that introduces many surprises and inspirational nuggets. In this issue we feature Vicki Waters. Growing up, Vicki lived in the Niagara Falls Housing Authority’s Center Court development and moved into her own apartment at the age of twenty. She still remembers her apartment number vividly - 18D, because it brings back such wonderful memories. After residing in her

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Tell me about your volunteer activities? “I became Tenant Association President about two years ago. For the past four years I have prepared a Saturday morning breakfast for Wrobel residents. I make just about everything pancakes, eggs and French toast. The cost is nominal and all proceeds go towards Tenant Association activities. The breakfast has become so successful, that I now cook a complete dinner the first Tuesday of every month and I run out of food each time. I also hold a monthly tenant association meeting to keep the residents informed and try to bring in guest speakers. We take trips as much as we can, most recently to Shea’s to see a Tyler Perry play. I have also been a volunteer door monitor for three years, assisting visitors to the building.” Why volunteer? “Somebody has to do the work and I like to keep busy. It’s what keeps me going. I like to make everyone happy and I like to be friendly.” Where did you work before moving into Wrobel Towers? “ I worked as a cashier at both Beech Avenue and Hyde Park schools for the Niagara Falls Board of Education for 13 years. I always made sure the kids ate, even if they had no money. No child where I worked did not eat. I also worked at the Elks Lodge on Highland Avenue for over ten years.” Do you have any hobbies? “I love to cook and when I was younger, I loved to dance. I enjoy all types of music. I am also a member of Covenant of Grace Church on Main Street.” Tell me about your family? “You will be surprised, but I have four children (three boys and one girl), 18 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.” Do you have a favorite quote, motto or scripture? “Not really, but again, someone has to do it.”

EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

Get Out and Vote! Voting Matters Vote because every election matters. Vote because the choices you make matter. Your vote is your voice as an American citizen. It’s your opportunity to be heard, to hold elected officials accountable for their decisions and to have a say in important issues that affect your community. On Election Day, every vote matters.

VOTING DATES TO REMEMBER

TIME OFF FOR VOTING: YES!

District Budget Vote and Board of Education Election: Tuesday, May 17, 2016.

Employees who do not have 4 consecutive non-working hours between polls opening and closing, and who do not have “sufficient” non-working time to vote, are entitled to up to 2 hours paid leave to vote. Employees must request the leave between 2 and 10 days before Election Day. The employer can specify whether it be taken at beginning or end of shift.

Polls will be open from noon – 9pm. Presidential Primary Election: April 19, 2016 Presidential Election: Tuesday, November 8, 2016 Primary Elections: Polls open at 12 noon and close at 9pm. General Elections: Polls open at 6 am and close at 9pm.

2016 Registration and Absentee Ballot Dates and Deadlines April 1, 2016 – Presidential Primary Election Day Last day to register Last day to request absentee ballot Last day to return absentee ballot

March 25, 2016 April 12, 2016 April 18, 2016

June 28, 2016 – Primary Election Day Last day to register Last day to request an absentee ballot Last day to return absentee ballot

June 3, 2016 June 21, 2016 June 27, 2016

November 8, 2016 – General Election Day Last day to register October 14, 2016 Last day to request absentee ballot November 1, 2016 Last day to return absentee ballot November 7, 2016

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Come and enjoy a fun-filled family evening! A h e a l t h y n e i g h b o r h o o d s t a r t s w i t h a h e a l t h y f a m i l y. A healthy family starts here. The 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! WHEN: From 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 pm Thursday, May 19, 2016 Thursday, August 25, 2016 Thursday, October 20, 2016 WHERE: Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

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. For more information please call Nicole Bass at (716) 285-5374.

The Independent Health Foundation’s Fitness for Kids challenge encourages elementary-aged children to become more physically active and make healthier eating decisions. 9

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EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

NFHA Goes “BLUE” for Colon Cancer During the month of March, the Niagara Falls Housing Authority went “BLUE” to bring awareness to Colorectal Cancer. The event supported the efforts of the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center’s Niagara County Cancer Services Program. What is Colorectal Cancer? Colorectal (Colon) cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus. It’s the Second Leading Cancer Killer BUT it Can be Prevented Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States, but it doesn’t have to be. If everyone aged 50 years or older had regular screening tests, at least 60% of deaths from this cancer could be avoided. So, if you are 50 or older, start getting screened now.

Screening Saves Lives If you’re 50 or older, getting a colorectal cancer screening test could save your life. Here’s how: • Colorectal cancer usually starts from polyps in the colon or rectum. A polyp is a growth that shouldn’t be there. • Over time, some polyps can turn into cancer. • Screening tests can find polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. • Screening tests also can find colorectal cancer early. When the cancer is found early, the chance of being cured is good.

Who Gets Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal Cancer Can Start With No Symptoms Precancerous polyps and early-stage colorectal cancer do not always cause symptoms. This means that someone could have polyps or colorectal cancer and not know it. That is why having a screening test is so important.

• Both men and women can develop Colon cancer

-www.cdc.gov/screenforlife

• It is most often found in people 50 or older. • The risk increases with age. Are You at High Risk? Your risk for colorectal cancer may be higher than average if: • You or a close relative have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer. • You have inflammatory bowel disease. • You have a genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer. People at high risk for colorectal cancer may need earlier or more frequent tests. Talk to your doctor about when to begin screening and how often you should be tested.

NFHA Staff Going Blue for colon cancer.

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EMPOWERING OUR RESIDENTS

Scholarship Deadlines Approaching D e l t a S i g m a T h e t a S o r o r i t y, I n c . B u f f a l o A l u m n a e C h a p t e r Applicant must be a graduating high school senior and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, community service and financial need. Applicant must reside in the Buffalo/Niagara region. Deadline: April 1, 2016

D e a c o n s Fe l l o w s h i p o f N i a g a ra A r t h u r B. Ra y, S r. Me m o r i a l S c h o l a r s h i p Applicant must be a graduating senior in high school or a full-time freshman or sophomore currently enrolled in an accredited college or university. Must have a 2.8 GPA in college or a high school average of 80% (B). Must reside in Niagara County. Preference will be given to students who are an active member of a local church. Deadline: April 15, 2016

N i a g a ra Fa l l s H o u s i n g Au t h o r i t y D o r i s W. J o n e s $ 1 , 0 0 0 Me m o r i a l S c h o l a r s h i p Applicant must be a high school senior. Residents of the Niagara Falls Housing Authority are given preferred status in the process. Student must have at least a “C”average during his/her senior year. Deadline: April 29, 2016

N i a g a ra Fa l l s H o u s i n g Au t h o r i t y N a t h a n i e l S m i t h $ 1 , 0 0 0 Me m o r i a l Scholarship Competition is open to all high school seniors or high school graduates who are not already attending a college, university or certified trade school and who met all of the eligibility requirements. Student must be a resident of the City of Niagara Falls. Student must have maintained at least a 2.5 grade point average (C+) during junior or senior years to be considered for the scholarship or must show a sustained marked improvement over their junior year grades. Deadline: April 29, 2016

C H W S c h o l a r s h i p Fu n d The 2016 Cannon Heyman & Weiss Scholarship Fund will make scholarship awards for full and part time study at approved colleges, junior colleges, technical schools, and other post secondary institutions leading to a degree, diploma or certificate. The Scholarship Fund is an extension of the CHW mission and reflective of the firm’s commitment to the affordable housing industry and community development. Graduate studies are not included. For an application or more information visit www.chwattys.com. Deadline: May 17, 2016

H o u s i n g Au t h o r i t y I n s u ra n c e , I n c . Re s i d e n t S c h o l a r s h i p P r o g ra m Applicant must be a resident of public housing. Apply for a chance to receive one of 50 scholarships awarded each year. Each scholarship amount is $2,500. This year, $125,000 in scholarships will be awarded. Since the program began, HAI Group has invested over $800,000 to provide educational opportunities to more than 320 public housing residents. Deadline: April 30, 2016 For applications on any of the scholarships listed, please contact Kelly Mariano, Tenant Services Coordinator, at (716) 285-6961 or visit your high school guidance office. Applications are available at all Niagara Falls Housing Authority communities, the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building and Packard Court Community Center. For more information, please contact Kelly Mariano at (716) 285-6961.

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Summer Employment N i a g a ra Co u n t y Yo u t h B e t w e e n t h e A g e s o f 1 4 – 2 0 Are you looking for Summer Employment Opportunities? A p p l i ca t i o n s a r e n o w b e i n g a c c e p t e d f o r N i a g a ra Co u n t y E m p l o y m e n t & Tra i n i n g ’s S u m m e r Yo u t h E m p l o y m e n t P r o g ra m . TO QUALIFY YOUTH MUST: • Be a Niagara County resident • Be 14 – 20 years old (Must turn 14 by May 13, 2016 and cannot be older than 20 on August 12, 2016). • Meet income guidelines APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT: • High School Guidance Offices • www.worksource1.com • Niagara County Employment & Training, 1001 Eleventh Street, Niagara Falls • Make sure you sign and date the application. • If under 18, a parent or guardian MUST sign the application. • A school official MUST sign and complete the Attendance & Suspension Section of the application if you are in-school.

Applications and all documents must be received at 1001 Eleventh Street by Friday, May 13, 2016.

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.

WHEN: Tuesdays from 5:30 pm –7:30 pm. WHERE: Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls. For more information, please call (716) 285-5374.

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IN THE KNOW

Celebrating Black History... Creating Awareness for All People Gerald R. Ford expanded African American week into a full month. The Mt. Erie Male Choir and the Bethany Male Choir performed mesmerizing musical selections and the NFHA Youth Choir stole the show with their creative skits and dance moves. Original poetry was recited by Earline Jenkins Smith and liturgical dances were performed by youth from Tammi’s Dance Studio.

Earline Jenkins Smith “Let us all be colorblind,” said Rev. Karen Hardaway, Trinity Baptist Church, during the opening prayer at Legislator Owen Steed’s Annual Black History Month program. “There is no difference between black and white.” Held on February 20, 2016 at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, the event celebrated the important contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout our nation’s history. The event was co-sponsored by the Niagara Falls Housing Authority (NFHA) in collaboration with Niagara Falls Redevelopment, Inc. “Celebrating Black History creates awareness for all people,” said NFHA Executive Director Stephanie W. Cowart. “It is important that we engage the community by reliving and remembering.” NFHA Senior Housing Manager Angela L. Smith served as Master of Ceremonies and shared some important facts. Carter G. Woodson created African American Week in Washington, D.C., in February 1926. Woodson chose the second week of February in order to celebrate the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. In 1976, the bicentennial of the United States, President

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NFHA Youth Choir performs with energy. Three awards were presented acknowledging an individual from the past, present and future who inspired the community through acts of volunteerism, commitment and service. Recipient of the Past Award was the O.G. Cruisers Car Club, Present Award went to the Prince Hall Masons, 7th Masonic District and the Future Award was presented to Niagara Falls High School student Kayshawanti Taylor. Rev. Harvey L. Kelley, Pastor, New Hope Baptist Church served as guest speaker and encouraged attendees to document their own personal stories. “There are so many other individuals who made lasting contributions to our progress. These individuals are never recognized, but there contributions are just as important to our race and our culture. It is important for us to remember.” The celebration culminated with a traditional African American meal consisting of soul food favorites such as chicken, string beans and sweet potato pie.

IN THE KNOW

Mayor Bryon W. Brown 2016 Buffalo State of the City Address “The strength of the city of Buffalo determines the strength of the region,” said Buffalo Mayor Bryon W. Brown at his Tenth Annual State of the City Address held at the Buffalo Convention Center on February 5, 2016. Buffalo State of the City Address Key Points: • In 2015, Buffalo’s unemployment rate hit 7%, which is lower than Los Angeles and Washington D.C. • Buffalo is ranked as the hottest construction market in the Northeast, ahead of New York, Philadelphia and Boston. • Investment in the City is higher than it’s been in decades. Since 2012, Buffalo has experienced $5.5 billion in economic development activity.

Additionally, nearly 3,000 students enrolled in college and post-secondary programs over the past three years. • Buffalo’s crime rate has dropped 32 percent. In 2015, Buffalo had the lowest crime rate in the city’s recorded history. “When I think about great cities across the United States, I think about all of the things that bring quality of life to city living. The culture and the communities. The arts and entertainment. The sports and recreation. The history and architecture. The beauty and vibrancy of our natural and man-made wonders. These are the heartbeat of a great City. And if there is anything that is undeniable, the HEARTBEAT OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO has never been stronger.” -Mayor Byron W. Brown

• Last year, the buffalo public schools graduation rate increased to 61%, a 10 year high for Buffalo.

Lamont Glover, Beloved Community Supportive Services Coordinator Lamont Glover, NFHA Executive Director Stephanie W. Cowart, Open Buffalo Executive Director Franchelle Hart and Niagara Falls City Councilman Ezra P. Scott.

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IN THE KNOW

Give Peace a Chance Re v. D r. Ma r t i n L u t h e r K i n g , J r. Co m m u n i t y C e l e b ra t i o n Putting an original spin on John Lennon’s “Give Peace A Chance” melody, the Niagara Falls Housing Authority Youth Choir brought the enthusiastic crowd to their feet at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration held on January 14, 2016 at Niagara Falls High School. The heartfelt performance left attendees cheering for more as the choir paid tribute to the life and works of Dr. King in song.

Guest Speaker Lulu Westbrook-Griffin Other highlights included powerful performance and remarks by guest speaker, Lulu Westbrook-Griffin, who took to the stage singing the freedom song “Keep On Walking”(Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Round). You could have heard a pin drop as she began to tell her story. On a sweltering July day in 1963, when she was only 13 years old, Lulu was one of 32 girls (ages 10 – 16) from Leesburg, Georgia held in an old Civil War prison in Americus, Georgia. Lulu was participating in a non-violent protest at a local theater that required African Americans to sit in the back of the theater. After only a short time of protest, the police moved in to break it up. Lulu

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was clubbed over the head and thrown into a police car with several other protesters. Badly bruised and beaten, the young girls were jailed for 45 days. “We were forced to go to the bathroom in shower drains, drink water from the shower faucets, and sleep on the hard floor. We were fed raw hamburgers on stale rolls and denied medical treatment. It was extremely hot and the smell was horrendous. The police taunted us and shouted racial slurs. Our parents did not know where we were located or if we were even alive,” said Westbrook-Griffin. To her surprise, a young photographer named Danny Lyon would sneak up to the prison windows and take photographs of the girls and the horrible conditions. Those photos eventually ended up in the hands of President John F. Kennedy who ordered the young protester’s immediate release. Mr. Lyons went on to become a very well-known civil rights photographer. Niagara Falls Mayor Paul Dyster presented WestbrookGriffin with the key to the city for having the courage to share her story. The celebration also honored two individuals from the community who exemplify the beliefs of Dr. King. The Spirit of Dr. King Award was presented to Joseph Lowery. Just as Dr. King taught us the value of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity and the importance of service, these same characteristics shine radiantly through the spirit of Mr. Lowery. Mr. Lowery has touched the lives of many through his numerous

IN THE KNOW

Niagara Falls Housing Authority Youth Choir performing. volunteer years with the Christian Basketball League and the work of his very successful anti-bullying program. The Civil Right Achievement Award was presented posthumously to Niagara Falls City Councilmember Robert Anderson Jr. Anderson was elected to the Niagara Falls City Council in 2003, where he served for three consecutive terms. He had a great love for his city and served with numerous civil and civic organizations. He cared deeply about people and about improving quality of life. Niagara Falls Deputy Police Chief Carlton Cain presented the Department’s Community Law Enforcement Partner Award to Diane Quarantello, Executive Director, Niagara Falls Boys and Girls Club. Quarantello was instrumental in the success of the “Game Changers” basketball and character building program that aims to build strong mentoring relationships between youth and police. The evening ended as it began with a moving musical selection by the Niagara Falls Housing Authority Youth Choir. Under the direction of Diana M. Reeves, choir participants took to the stage to perform “We Shall

Overcome.” Committee members and both past and current award recipients joined the ensemble, holding hands and proudly belting out the beautiful AfricanAmerican Civil Rights anthem. Yes, all we are saying is let’s give peace a chance!

Donna D. Owens, City Administrator; Stephanie W. Cowart, NFHA Executive Director; Lulu Westbrook-Griffin; and Khaleelah Shareef, Director, Packard Court Community Center

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IN THE KNOW

Heart, Love & Soul Food Pantry & Dining Room Office: 716-282-5687 Food Pantry: 716-282-5681 www.heartloveandsoul.org MISSION: Heart, Love & Soul is dedicated to feeding those in need – body, mind and soul. VISION: Heart, Love & Soul is open and available to enrich the lives of the people we serve.

Services Provided Food Pantry 1

10:00 – 1:00 weekdays

Breakfast 2

9:00 – 10:00 weekdays

Lunch 2

11:30 – 12:30 weekdays

Lunch last two weekends of the month 2

12:00 – 1:00 Saturday & Sunday

Food Express (3rd Monday of the Month, except Nov., Dec., & Jan.) 3

9:00: Doors open and sign up starts. No breakfast; bagged lunch

Case Worker

8:30 – 4:00 weekdays

Community Care Outreach Worker

8:30 – 1:00 weekdays

Haircuts

11:00 – 1:00 Mondays

Hand-on Cooking Classes

As scheduled

Fitness/Exercise

As scheduled

Summer programs for children

As scheduled

Bible Study

Wednesday, 9:30

To receive food from pantry, new registration is from 9:00 – 9:45 AM weekdays with Sr. Marygrace. Documentation needed; proof of residency, proof of income, ID for all in household. Registered clients may receive supplemental groceries once every 30 days. 1

Anyone is eligible to come in and receive a meal, regardless of residency or income.

Must bring ID and cart, bags, or box to carry items home from Food Express.

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IN THE KNOW

Operation Job Search Offers Young Adults a Chance to EARN while they LEARN Niagara County Employment and Training has been assisting young adults in Niagara County for over 20 years. Their program, Operation Job Search, provides one-on-one assistance to eligible Niagara County young adults ages 16-24 years old with job search, job placement, resume writing and interview techniques. Operation Job Search goals are to assist participants with: obtaining and maintaining unsubsidized employment, enrolling in TASC class or post secondary education, attaining a degree or certificate, and increasing literacy and numeracy gains. Participants of Operation Job Search gain confidence, self worth and most importantly, build a foundation for success in the workforce! Through a workbook and individualized activities participants focus on: skills employers look for, job search techniques, how to stand out during interviews and money management skills once they obtain employment. Eligible participants are offered paid work experiences where they can work up to 200 hours and earn up to $1,750! These paid employment opportunities provide hands-on experience, can lead to permanent employment and are added to a resume. Often times, this may be the first instance a participant has worked or been in a work environment. Cash incentives up to $350 are also awarded for monthly job search, obtaining employment, enrolling in college or the armed forces, increasing literacy levels and obtaining workplace certifications. Have you been thinking about continuing your education? Looking for work and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know where to start?

Niagara County Employment and Training can help! They are located in the Trott Access Building, 1001 Eleventh Street, Niagara Falls, New York 14301. Stop by and fill out an application! Applications can also be found at www.worksource1.com under the Young Adults tab. If you have questions or want to know if you are eligible, please contact Kerrie, Out-ofSchool Employment Counselor, at (716) 278-8233. You may be eligible for Niagara County Employment and Training, Operation Job Search, if you are a Niagara County resident, ages 16-24 years old and are NOT attending high school or college, OR if you ARE attending Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) classes (formerly GED).

Niagara County Employment and Training is also looking for worksites. They provide the participant at NO cost to the employer! If your organization is interested in becoming a worksite, more information can be found at www.worksource1.com or by contacting Kathy at (716) 278-8582.

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IN THE KNOW

A Tulip Grows Tulip Corporation CEO Craig Kellogg said, “Today is a milestone for Tulip. As we grow, we are going to grow our people.” For 114 years the molded products and capital equipment manufacturer, Tulip Corporation, has operated in the city of Niagara Falls. A short time ago, representatives were looking at the possibility of moving the Highland Avenue facility because as Kellogg put it, “The facility has outgrown its useful life.” On March 10, 2016 shovels entered the ground on a new $11.7 million facility that will be constructed adjacent to it’s current home. The new facility, located at 3123 Highland Avenue, will be constructed on a brownfield site that was home to a former Honeywell manufacturing plant. This new expansion would not be possible if not for the vision of Jon Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the OSC Group in collaboration with Honeywell through the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s brownfield cleanup program. “Tulip can stay in Niagara Falls and be a leader in their industry,” said Williams. The project also includes six acres of public park space as part of the OSC Group’s commitment to improving the Niagara Falls community. Senator Robert Ortt, Congressman Brian Higgins, Assemblyman John Ceretto, Niagara County Legislator Owen Steed, Anthony Vilardo representing Mayor Paul Dyster, Regional President of Empire State Development

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NF Department of Economic Development, Renewal Community Coordinator, Tom Tedesco, NF Legislator, Owen Steed; NFHA Board Member, Carmelette M. Rotella; NFHA, Willie Dunn; and NFHA Executive Director, Stephanie W. Cowart Sam Hoyt, Councilman Charles Walker, Niagara Falls Housing Authority (NFHA) Board member Frank Soda as well as Tulip Corporation employees were all on hand to celebrate the historic event. NFHA Chairman Jeff Paterson said, “Many of you might be interested in why the Housing Authority is so interested in this project. It’s because a home is not just a building where you lay your head.” Williams thanked NFHA Executive Director for her diligence with regards to the project stating, “Stephanie acted as our liaison and welcomed us into this community.” The expansion will bring 10 new jobs to the City.

IN THE KNOW

Water Donation During the month of February, the Niagara Falls Housing Authority (NFHA) and Damascus Baptist Church teamed-up to assist the residents of Flint, Michigan. NFHA employees were asked to take part in the donation of bottled water for the Flint community where poor water quality prompted a major health crisis after high levels of lead were detected in the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water supply.

Pictured: Rev. Joseph Jones, Pastor, Damascus Baptist Church and NFHA Employee Yolanda Walker.

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IN THE KNOW

2016 Playground Safety Poster Contest Explore your Universe: Be a Playground Safety Astronaut The playground is a place to discover “out of this world” fun with your friends. It’s important to keep it safe and clean so that space travelers can continue to explore their galaxy. To celebrate National Playground Safety Week (April 18 – 22, 2016), Housing Authority Insurance Group in collaboration with the Niagara Falls Housing Authority will hold their annual Playground Safety Poster Contest. The theme this year is Explore your Universe: Be a Playground Safety Astronaut! We are asking all our young astronauts to look for dangers at their playground and report to an adult if they find anything suspicious. This will keep everyone, and our planet, safe.

Contest Rules 1. Participants must be a resident of the Niagara Falls Housing Authority. Children ages 6-14 years of age may enter. Three age categories have been created: 6-8 years, 9-11 years, and 12-14 years. There will be one winner for each category. 2. All posters should be on the topic of playground safety. The theme for this year is Explore your Universe: Be a Playground Safety Astronaut! 3. Judging will take place the week of April 18, 2016, which is National Playground Safety Week. All participants will receive recognition certificates for their contributions to promoting playground safety from HAI Group. 4. Winning posters from each age category will be submitted for national judging. Submissions will not be returned. National winners will receive a $100 gift certificate for 1st place, a $40 gift certificate for 2nd place, and a $25 gift certificate for 3rd place from Walmart or Barnes and Noble. 5. Posters must have the following information written clearly on the back: first and last name, age and address. It is recommended that standard 22” x 28” poster board or smaller is used. 6. Posters must be received at your site office no later than Friday, April 15, 2016 –4:30 pm.

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IN THE KNOW

The Premier Midwinter’s Night Scene Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center’s Marquee Event January 16, 2016 Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino NFHA Leadership and Staff extend support and congratulations to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center.

Stephanie W. Cowart with NYS Senator Robert Ortt and Mrs. Ortt.

Kathleen Haugabook and Stephanie W. Cowart enjoying the Premiere. Niagara carrier APRIL 2016

IN THE KNOW

New Surgeries at Memorial Keep Patients Close to Care Kevin Howey of Niagara Falls couldn’t eat any of the goods he delivered as a snack food merchandiser because he suffered from a disease called gastroparesis. At age 28, he suffered debilitating nausea and pain and was a frequent patient in the emergency room. Gastroparesis, or stomach paralysis, is a disease that causes the stomach to contract less frequently to empty itself of food and liquid. The stomach thus fails to empty as it should. That all changed when Memorial Medical Center surgeon Dr. Bala Thatigotla (pictured) implanted a gastric electrical stimulator, also called a gastric pacemaker, in Kevin’s abdomen. This minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery made him feel 100 percent better – the best that he has felt in a very long time. Until now, patients had to travel to the Cleveland Clinic to receive this life-changing procedure. Now they can have it done right here in Niagara Falls. Memorial surgeons are also implementing a second new procedure, one that will provide relief to patients suffering chronic acid reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD. Called the LINX procedure, it consists of implanting a small flexible band of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores just above the stomach. This magnetic attraction between the beads prevents reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. To learn more about these procedures, phone 278-4400 or visit nfmmc.org.

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Dr. Hannah Bailey to Join Memorial’s OB/GYN Center The OB/GYN Center at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center is pleased to announce that obstetrician/ gynecologist Hannah Bailey, M.D., will soon join the staff as a full-time provider. Dr. Bailey is a graduate of Miami Dade College and St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. She is completing her post-graduate work in gynecology and obstetrics at Barnabas Health in New Jersey, where she is the chief administrative resident.

Dr. Gil Farkash Joins Memorial Medical Staff Gil Farkash, M.D, F.A.C.O.G., has joined the medical staff at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center as a laborist in the Women’s Services Department. Dr. Farkash is a graduate of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Buffalo. He serves as chief of obstetrics and gynecology at Kaleida Health and is the site director at Women and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo. He holds board certification from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

IN THE KNOW

NFHA Community TV Show is All About People and Possibilities

Co-hosts Angela L. Smith and Jennifer J. Parker joined by Tomorrow R. Allen-Collins, General Manager, Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building. The Today Show, Live! With Kelly and Michael, Good Morning America, The Wendy Williams Show and People and Possibilities are all about entertaining and empowering people. Talk shows are a great way to learn about events, programs and new trends. People and Possibilities features information on upcoming community events, program initiatives,

youth programs, job training and employment opportunities right here at home. The show also features a variety of local guest speakers and promotes the many positive attributes of affordable housing through our resident success stories. People and Possibilities focuses on topics directly related to your lives. It is a show hosted by the Niagara Falls Housing Authority for NFHA residents and the Niagara Falls community.

Be sure to tune in weekly on Channel 21 and follow us on Facebook. Day

Air Times

Mondays

6:00 pm

Tuesdays

12:00 pm

Wednesdays

8:00 pm

Thursdays

4:00 pm

Fridays

10:00 pm

Saturdays

8:00 am and 3:00 pm

Sundays

12:00 pm and 8:00 pm Co-hosts Angela L. Smith and Jennifer J. Parker joined by Ebone Rose (NF District Wide Counselor) Niagara carrier APRIL 2016

IN THE KNOW

Let’s Talk Conference Teaches Many Life Lessons 1 0 Ye a r s o f E m p o w e r i n g Te e n G i r l s

Keynote Speaker, Crystal J. Rodriguez, Esq. She was a teenage runaway who thought she knew it all. Living in the streets on the East side of Buffalo, she was tough. She was known as a fighter. Her friends were violent drug dealers. She witnessed a double homicide. She was beaten, pistol-whipped and left for dead at the hands of her much older boyfriend – and although she didn’t know it, she was pregnant. Today, she is a Buffalo attorney with two law degrees and the first Chief Diversity Officer for the City of Buffalo. She is Crystal J. Rodriguez, Esq. Rodriguez was the keynote speaker at the Niagara Falls Housing Authority’s Let’s Talk Conference held a t the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building on March 7, 2016.

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The Let’s Talk Conference is an interactive educational event where young females, ages 12-19, are encouraged to discuss and learn about relative issues regarding their emotional, physical, and Mental Health. “The event is designed to empower young women to dream and know that they are worthy of success,” said Stephanie W. Cowart, Executive Director, Niagara Falls Housing Authority.” Speaking to the 200 young women in attendance, mostly from area middle and high schools, Rodriguez said, “If I can overcome those obstacles, then there’s nothing that you can’t overcome.” Rodriguez went on to get her GED and join the Navy for eight years. Those years provided the change she

IN THE KNOW so desperately needed. She learned the importance of self-discipline, hard work and determination. “The Navy gave me a new perspective and I was determined to overcome,” said Rodriguez. While in the Navy, she obtained her undergraduate degree from California State University, San Marcos in Social Sciences with concentrations in Political Science, History and Sociology. She then returned to her roots to attend Law School at the University at Buffalo where she received her J.D. and LL.M. degrees. Receiving a standing ovation, Rodriguez ended by saying, “Learn from your mistakes and whatever you do, always get up!” “Wow, I can’t believe all she went through,” said Niagara Falls High School Freshman Capri Peay. “She taught me that anything is possible.”

Students take part in a Leadership Workshop.

Following the presentation was an engaging question and answer session. A number of hands flew into the air. “Where is your ex-boyfriend now?”“Do you have internships available?”“Are you married and how many children do you have?” Well, the former boyfriend is in jail and yes – she provides internships/mentoring opportunities, she is now in a committed relationship and is the mother of four children. The event also featured a series of workshops conducted by extraordinary women community leaders including Brittni Smallwood, WIVB reporter; Dr. Keli Koran-Luchey, founder of Lucid Pathways; Samika Sullivan, NFHA STYA Coordinator; Chayointe Scott from the Community Health Center of Niagara; Ashley Dolson and Nina Price, Executives from General Motors; Morgan WilliamsBryant, Senior Vice President of the Girl Scouts of WNY and owner of Williams-Bryant Consulting/ Business Services; Lecia Parmer from Roswell Park Cancer Institute; and Natasia Johson and Kartike Carr of Niagara University’s Black Student Union. Cowart added, “We are proud of the 10 years of impact. I am pleased to hear the stories about girls who have reached out to Let’s Talk role models long after the event to ask for resume assistance or career advice. It’s encouraging to know that the community connection was made at the Let’s Talk Conference.”

Student listens carefully to Teen Summit speakers.

Dr. Catherine Collins, NYS Regent at Let’s Talk Conference Niagara carrier APRIL 2016

IN THE KNOW

Male Summit Tu r n i n g Yo u n g Me n i n t o Re s p o n s i b l e Ad u l t s Currently, he is the Assistant Director of Engagement and Team Chaplin for the Buffalo Bills. “You have to build yourself for the long race,” said Trapp. “If you want to win, make good choices and educated decisions. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t.” Designed for males ages 12 and older, the empowering and interactive event provides workshops and hands-on activities to assist youth in becoming responsible men. Presentations were conducted by male role models from the Niagara Falls community and addressed issues prevalent with teens in today’s society.

Keynote Speaker James Trapp He talked about the 3 D’s. Direction– knowing the path you want to go down, decision– making the right choices and dedication– giving it your all.

Workshop presenter and Niagara Falls Housing Authority employee Willie Dunn’s session “Unwrapping Your Creative Gifts,” discussed youth employment opportunities and how to put your talents to work. Dunn explained how your hobbies and talents can look great on a resume even if you have no prior job experience. “Learn how to be creative - babysitting jobs, coaching a little league team, volunteering at a local hospital, helping with a spring clean-up...all these things

He is James Trapp. Giving the keynote speech at the Niagara Falls Housing Authority’s Male Summit on March 18, 2016, Trapp is one of only 10 people to have earned both an Olympic medal and a Super Bowl ring. In 1993, Trapp won gold for the U.S.A. in the 200m at the Toronto Indoor World Championship and was the U.S.A. Track and Field Champion of the year in the 200m. Trapp was also a member of the 2000 record sitting Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl Team and a 2001 inductee into the Clemson Hall of Fame. In 2005, and after playing in the NFL for 12 years, Trapp retired and became a consultant and life coach in the NFL.

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Bro. Sylvester George, member of Bethany Missionary Baptist Church

IN THE KNOW will give the employer a better understanding of who they are hiring.” Workshop presenters included NFHA SUNY ATTAIN Lab Coordinator, Joseph Brown; Alphonso Carter; Rev. Stacey Robinson from St. Mark Open Door Baptist Church; Former Buffalo City Councilman and Director of Buffalo Employment and Traning Center, Demone Smith; Coach at Buffalo State College, Iman Fajri Anmsari; Buffalo Bills Assistant Director of Customer Service, Pat Mathews; Brother Sylvester George; Niagara Falls Fire Department, Earl Bass and NFHA STYA Employee, Saladin Allah. Juan Cox, a 13-year old Gaskill student said, “Today was a fun day. I learned that it’s important to have a positive attitude, to work hard and have a plan.”

Davion Adams, NFHS, senior year; James Trapp and Eric Fields

Demone Smith, Former Buffalo City Councilman and Director of Buffalo Employment and Training Center

NFHA employee Willie Dunn presenting his workshop.

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A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Teach your teens the ABC’s of Early Money Management Pa t r i c i a L . B a r o n e , D e p u t y E xe c u t i v e D i r e c t o r

a budget based on their income. This income may be based on an allowance or part time job. Next project how much money they will need for such things as school supplies or clothing. Make sure expenses are separated by the wants and the needs. More income may be needed so they can either work extra hours or cut their expenses.

Many teens know a lot about spending money, but do they know how to save money? It is important to teach our teens basic money management skills so that they will grow to be fiscally responsible adults. Here are some guidelines to get you started: A is for accounts. Help your teens to select a bank and open a checking account. They must remember to record every purchase and withdrawal so that the account is accurate. They should balance their checking account with the statement that they receive each month. Discuss the importance of pin numbers and debit cards. Also, opening a savings

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account is key. Teens should be cognizant of the value of a dollar and how difficult it can be to earn this money. Starting out young with good financial habits most likely means that they will continue these good habits into adulthood. B is for budgeting. Help your son or daughter set up

C is for credit. Credit cards are very popular these days but can be very dangerous. Explain how interest rates and late fees work. Ideally, credit cards should be paid in full each month – and if this cannot be done – then the purchase should have never taken place. Repaying debt in a timely manner should be stressed to young people. Not paying bills on time, not making more than the minimum payment due and making late payments is all a recipe for disaster. This can ruin a potentially good credit score.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Niagara Falls Housing Authority - Beloved Community

Modernization and Maintenance Updates Nancy Haley, Director of Maintenance and Modernization MAINTENANCE We had a long and cold winter and I want to thank all our residents for being so cooperative with keeping your main sidewalks free of ice and snow. 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. Please notify the work order line as soon as you think you may have a problem. Doing so, will allow us to correct the problem as quickly as possible and eliminate the potential for damage caused by waiting and most importantly prevent any inconvenience or discomfort to you. WE APPRECIATE YOUR PROMPT CALL TO THE WORK ORDER LINE FOR YOUR MAINTENANCE NEEDS – DIAL CAREFULLY 284-WORK (9675)

in your NFHA mailbox. We cannot make special accommodations with regard to our grass cutting service contract – the Authority pays for a consistent, Authority wide cut and that is how we must administer this service contract as well.

Grass Care This is the time of year when our Maintenance, Modernization and Purchasing Departments work hard to prepare our annual service contracts to ensure that we provide you, our residents, the best services around. With the coming of the warmer spring temperatures, it will be necessary to address our grass cutting needs. We will look for your assistance to keep your yards as free as possible of all summer items (i.e. bikes, wading pools, chairs, etc.) on the day your grass is being cut. As soon as the mowing schedule is available, you will receive a notice

Storing Seasonable Items Just a quick reminder from the NFHA’s Insurance provider: You are responsible to properly store your seasonal items such as barbecue grills and propane tanks. These items must be safely stored away from your porches and entry doors. There should be no indoor storage of any flammable or combustible items. The NFHA’s Tenant Lease notes, “The tenant shall be obligated to keep the premises, adjacent grounds and other such areas as may be assigned to the tenant’s use, in a clean, orderly, and safe condition.” We thank you in advance for your cooperation and

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understanding with regard to the storage of your seasonal items. Look for Exterior Damage Now that the snow has melted away, our grounds need attention. We look for your assistance and immediate advisement should you see any exterior damage in and around your home. Roof shingles, gutters, downspouts, siding, etc. do experience damage from the wind and cold temperatures. Just call the work order line and we will be happy to pass on this information to your site maintenance team. MODERNIZATION Once our service contracts are in place, it will be time to work on the individual site modernization projects. Please watch for updates regarding future construction planned for the NFHA developments. AFTER HOURS - EMERGENCY Should you have a need for emergency services after 4:30 p.m. you are required to call our emergency answering service number at 285-6961. Our answering service will ask you your name, address, phone number and the nature of your emergency. This information is then turned immediately over to the NFHA emergency on call staff member. You will receive a call back to the number you provided the answering service very timely. The on call staff member will assess your call and advise you as to whether someone will be dispatched out immediately or if the necessary maintenance

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will be provided on the next working day. You must be home to grant the maintenance staff access into your home to make the needed emergency repairs. Also, for your own safety and security – should you lock yourself out of your apartment, you should be prepared to show identification to the maintenance staff dispatched that not only lists your name but, your address as well. Please understand that the on call staff member WILL NOT send anyone out without first talking to the resident. AIR CONDITIONER INSTALLATION With the anticipation of warmer weather around the corner – please remember to call in a work order to have your air conditioner installed. Please be prepared to assist the work order line attendant with answering a few necessary questions such as what window and room will the a/c be installed in? Do you have more than one A/C? Where is you’re A/C stored? Where is the platform stored? Where do you wish to store your window screen? Please

understand that these questions assist our Maintenance Team. 2016 REAC Thank you to our residents at Packard Court and our friends at the Beloved Community for your cooperation and patience when we visited your homes during our March 2016 REAC inspections. Please know that your cooperation was very much appreciated. As always, if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the Maintenance/Modernization Department at 285-6961. I would like to take this opportunity to SINCERELY THANK my valued TEAM MEMBERS in the Maintenance, Modernization and Purchasing Departments. We could not do what we do without each other’s help. Remember to take the time to say thank you to your Maintenance team.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Helping Children Adjust To Moving Melissa A. Matsulavage, Director of Occupancy For children, a move may mean leaving known friends and loved ones behind. They’ll leave behind familiar sounds, scents and sights of home. A move requires children to develop new relationships with peers and adults in a different child care program or school. Even though a household move temporarily interrupts a child’s predictable routines and comfort, a move in itself isn’t necessarily bad. A move can help children learn to be adaptable, flexible, resilient, selfconfident and capable of making new friends. Moves can broaden children’s experiences and introduce them to greater diversity. How children adjust to a move will vary according to age, temperament, personality and family harmony. The first supportive

neighborhood prior to moving is always a good idea. Point out the positive things about the move to get children excited.

step parents can take is to communicate honestly with children and then encourage positive coping skills. Explain things in simple, matter-of-fact language and allow them to ask questions. Give them as much notice as possible to get used to the idea of moving. There are many good children’s books about moving. Consider reading them to your children or having them read themselves when possible. Giving the children a tour of the new home and

Be sure to include children in the moving preparations so they feel as though they are contributing. Ask them to give input regarding their rooms such as paint color and placement of furniture. This will give them a sense of control and reduce anxiety. Moving to a new home and neighborhood will be one of your child’s first major life transitions. With your sensitive and responsive support, children will successfully meet the challenge. It is a lesson that will serve them well for a lifetime.

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A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Are You Prepared? Angela L. Smith, Senior Housing Manager How prepared are you for emergencies that will affect your home and your livelihood? Do you have an emergency basic kit in case of a fire or other emergency? I remember when my daughter was very young and she prepared her emergency kit containing her most valuable items - just in case of a fire or a situation that would force us to leave our home. I recently came across a brochure from Homeland Security that was very helpful with the following tips in preparing for citizen preparedness. 1. Get a kit of emergency supplies: Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own for at least 3 days, maybe longer. While there are many things that might make you more uncomfortable think first about free water, food and clean air. Consider two kits. In one, put everything you will need to stay where you are and make it on your own. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you have to get away. 2. Make A Plan for What You Will Do in an Emergency: Plan in advance what you will do in an emergency. Be prepared to assess the situation. Use common sense and whatever you have on hand to take care of yourself and your loved ones. a. Develop a Family Communications Plan. Your family

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Recommended Supplies to Include in a Basic Kit: • Water – one gallon per person per day, for drinking and sanitation • Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will contact one another and review what you will do in different situations. Consider a plan where each member calls or e-mails the same friend or relative in the event of an emergency. b. Create a plan to shelter-inplace. There are circumstances when staying put and creating a barrier between yourself and other obstacles are necessary. c. Create a plan to get away. Plan in advance how you will assemble your family and anticipate where you will go. Choose several destinations indifferent directions and become familiar with alternative routes as well as other means of transportation. Be sure to take your emergency supply kit. d. Know your emergency plans at school and work. Think about the places where your family spends time: school, work and other places your family frequents. Talk to your child’s school and your employer about emergency plans. Talk to your neighbors about how you can work together.

• Battery powered radio and extra batteries • Flashlight and extra batteries • First Aid kit • Whistle to signal for help • Filter mask or cotton t-shirt, to help filter the air • Moist towelettes for sanitation • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities • Manual can opener for food (if your kit contains canned food) • Unique family needs such as daily prescription medications, infant formula or diapers and important family documents It is important to be prepared at all times to make sure you and your family will be safe and secure in times of emergencies.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Clean Out the Clutter! Ma r c i a E . Ma s s a r o , Ma n a g e r , H e n r y E . Wr o b e l To w e r s Clutter is the collection or keeping of large amounts of various items in the home. Sometimes the clutter is confined to one room in the home and sometimes there can be extreme clutter littered throughout the entire home or apartment. Sometimes, there are so many items that it makes many of the rooms or living areas of the home, unusable. There are so many possessions that the resident can no longer use the room or living area and the home is so overloaded with things that everyday living is compromised. Excessive clutter can create many problems in a house or apartment: • Blocked or semi-blocked doors and windows can make it difficult for emergency services to access the resident. • Fire hazards – when possessions are piled next to a heater, stove, or electrical cords get tangled under and around things. • If a fire were to occur, it would burn faster with the many items that could fuel the fire and rescue services may be blocked from helping. • It creates tripping hazards in the home, especially for older adults. Falls could occur trying to walk around or step over items. • Falling objects from unsafe storage or too many things on a shelf or cupboard.

• Start in one room and in the farthest corner working your way to the doorway. • Handle each item once and decide whether to keep it, donate it or throw it away.

• Unable to properly clean the home, which causes sanitation issues. • Difficult to spot insect infestations such as bedbugs and is much harder to get rid of infestations. • Hard to find needed mail or paperwork – missed appointments. • Maintenance repairs become tough to complete. Besides health and safety issues, filling a house or apartment with too many things may cause a resident to be in violation of their lease. Excessive clutter makes it difficult to check windows, electrical outlets, and door operations during the yearly maintenance inspection. It is almost impossible to meet the housekeeping standards. Some suggestions to de-clutter your home: • Have either garbage bags or boxes ready for keeping, giving away or garbage.

• Work a short period each time, but have a goal on what you want to complete. • Go through drawer, shelves, cupboards, and closets – this will make it easier to organize the items you want keep. • Store seasonal items in boxes or bins and label what is in them. • If there are medications, try putting them into a plastic bin to keep them organized. • Check the expiration date and throw out expired medications, food, and health care products. • Paper and mail can be the worst. Go through mail at least once per week. Separate and throw away junk mail. Keep mail that you need. Put bills in one place where they will be accessible when it is time to pay them. A shoebox works great for putting paperwork such as bank statement, medical documents, or other papers that you may need to keep. • A good motivator may be to pretend you are moving.

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A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Getting Ready for the Summer Job Market Wi l l i e C . D u n n , S e r v i c e Co o r d i n a t o r Spring is a great time of the year to freshen up your resume. This is especially true if you are job hunting. Spring starts the area tourism season. Many companies are looking for individuals with great people skills. Good customer service skills are very important to any industry, but especially for tourism. It takes special training to help individuals to be able to handle the thousands of tourists that visit the magnificent Niagara Falls throughout the year, but especially during the summer months at the height of the season. This is especially true for hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, shopping malls, and other tourism centered service providers.

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Summer/Tourist Season Employment Many people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always think about the ancillary jobs that are related to the tourist industry such as lawn care providers, window washers, food trucks, tour guides, entertainers, performers, artists, bus drivers, just to name a few of the many employment opportunities that are needed for the height of the tourist season. If you are interested in any of these employment opportunities, updating your resume, increasing your computer skills or just want to discover what other employment and/or training opportunities are available, please contact either myself or Antoniette Polito at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building (716) 285-5374.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Taking Care of Our Financial Business Financial Awareness Event May 12 La m o n t L . G l o v e r , Co m m u n i t y a n d S u p p o r t i v e S e r v i c e s Co o r d i n a t o r , B e l o v e d Co m m u n i t y After years of working in the financial business, I have learned many helpful budgeting tips that I wanted to share with the residents of the Beloved Community. I have held several successful Financial Awareness events, providing information on general banking, understanding credit and dealing with collections. To continue the financial learning process, I will host another Financial Awareness event on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at the Beloved Community Event Center from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. I encourage all residents to attend and bring a friend!

7 tips that could be useful in balancing the household budget

and pre-shop. Make use of that time walking around the store to comparison shop and plan meals ahead of time. That way, you spend the money on paper before you spend it in person so when it comes time to buy what you’ve planned, you’re not wasting cash on last minute, impulse purchases. Remember: If it didn’t make the list, it doesn’t make it in the cart.

1. Pre-shop & Plan How many times have you gone to the grocery store for one thing and ended up walking around the store for an hour buying other items that you didn’t really need. I suggest that you make a grocery list and then go to the grocery store

2. Eat-in Stay away from restaurants and ordering takeout. The average household spends about $300 a month on fast food and restaurants. If you stick to the grocery plan then you can create meals and do things like make

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simple meals that you can freeze and pop in the oven or microwave. Packing a lunch instead of buying lunch everyday allows you to save as well. Take into account the simple things that come with eating at home such as saving money and more quality family time.

carpooling and/or taking public transportation to work and school. It allows you to continue to save the money that you were saving during the high gas price times. This will create a small cash surplus in your wallet as well. Less at the pump means more in your account.

3. Go Basic! Now this one will make your eyes bug out but it could save a household anywhere from $50 -$100 a month. The tip is to cut the channels and go with BASIC CABLE! Currently basic cable (which includes the first 99 channels) is discounted for residents of the Beloved Community, which is a great deal. Ask yourself, what could you use that extra cash on right now? How many times have you watched the same reruns of that old reality show? Which would you rather see in your home the cash or that show?

5. Say No to Credit Cards Do your best to avoid using credit cards. Studies have shown that most individuals will spend 15% more on average if they use a credit card. Especially when, they get the bill at the end of the month and they don’t have the funds to pay the bill in full so they make the minimum payment. Depending on the interest rate, it could take almost five years to pay off that outfit you just bought for one night. The rule of thumb should be: If you can’t buy it now, then you can’t get it now.

4. Walk, Carpool, Bus I know with gas prices being so low, everyone thinks it’s time to fill up and go. I suggest walking,

6. Second Hand You can find a lot of great deals on second hand items. I know we live in the time where new and shiny always seems best, but what

glitters is not always gold. You’d be surprise the deals that you can find at your local consignment store for electronic items such as televisions, microwaves and even computers. The local Goodwill or thrift store has everything from clothing and dining room sets to those end tables you’ve waiting to go sale. Check the paper for estate sales. When people have to move out of town in a hurry or there’s an unfortunate death in the family, there are tons of items that must be sold right away. You can walk in and get things at bargain rate prices. 7. Turn time into money Finding one job is already an uphill battle, but if you’re looking for extra cash for the holidays - start now! Most people wait until later in the year to look for that holiday cash. The benefits of getting those seasonal jobs now are: the money will already be placed into your holiday account so you won’t be stressed. You’ll also have seniority over those new hires that come in late October. That means you’ve been able to establish shifts you can work and get an advantage when requesting a day off because you’ve been there for longer period of time. If you use these 7 tips, I’m sure you will be well on your way to a better financial future.

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A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Spring is Here! A Time of Renewal and Rejuvenation I da P. Se r ight , Ma na g e r , Pa c ka r d Co ur t Co mmuni t y Spring is finally here, with a gentle push from our long winter slump. Springtime is a time for renewal and rejuvenation. The days are getting longer and the trees are beginning to blossom. We feel the excitement of knowing it’s going to be warm again. Spring is a time for planting –both literally and figuratively. It is a time that we, along with the earth, change. Spring is a time that encourages us to get rid of what has become worn to strive for a greater sense of purpose. We are motivated to clean house and get rid of the clutter that has accumulated during the winter. It feels good to go into an organized closet or drawer or feel the comforts of a clean smelling car.

normal-but letting those feelings take up residence can cause permanent damage and frustrations. • If you feel badly about something you said or have done to someone, rectify it by offering an apology (whether it was intentional or not). • Forgive you own faults. Sometimes it is easier to overlook the faults of others than to let go of our own shortcomings. Dwelling on past mistakes clutters the present and leads to being self-critical. • Re-enforce good habits.

As much as it is comforting to enjoy a clean house or car, it is just as important that we enjoy a clean mind by performing an emotional springcleaning. Let’s gather our cleaning supplies!

Spring is an excellent time for cleansing the mind. This empowers us to make those positive changes in our lives that may have seemed to challenging. This spring, just like every other one before, offers us a new opportunity to plant new seeds of health and happiness in our lives.

• Replace any negative thoughts with positivity.

It is a time of renewal and rejuvenation. It is a

• Take an inventory of the people who surround you. If they do not positively contribute or impact your life – then separate yourself. Positive people will help you grow. • Stay focused. Focus on the future. Don’t look to the past for success. • Make a list of all the things you wish to accomplish... and go after them. • Give up a grudge. This can free you to gear that energy to a more positive area of your life. • Emotions like hurt or anger are

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Packard Court Community

time to release the old and worn thoughts and beliefs. We can renew and rejuvenate our thought life, change our attitude, improve our surroundings, be more kind and compassionate, spend more time with family and friends, improve out diet, commit to more exercise, and lose weight. Let’s begin anew this spring! RESIDENT ADVICE– Let’s Review I would like to encourage all residents of the Packard Court community to do “spring cleaning.” We can now do a physical cleanup in addition to a mental.

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Let’s stay on the right track. Communication with the manager is of the utmost importance. Sometimes unforeseen events take place in our life and we may fall on difficult times. If there is a problem with paying rent, or some other issue relative to occupancy, please communicate with the manager immediately and most of all, be honest. It is recommended that we pull out our lease agreement and refresh our minds of just what

is expected as a resident. Your cooperation is needed and appreciated. Note: As always if you observe any criminal, drug or suspicious activity contact the NFPD or Site Administration Office. We solicit your involvement in the Tenant Association. Look for notices of upcoming Resident Chats. Your input is encouraged. Help to make the Packard Court Development “A Good Place to Call Home.”

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Time to Focus on You and Your Home M . A n n e S m i t h , Ma n a g e r , A n t h o n y S p a l l i n o To w e r s

Spring is upon us and many of you are looking to enjoy the warm, sunny days. As the days get longer, it makes for more time to spend with family and friends. We begin to feel rejuvenated by the hint of warm weather. Spring offers a wealth of opportunities. There is no need to reinvent the wheel. Think through the things you love most or that you’ve always dreamed of doing. This will give you a good starting point in finding the best activities for your lifestyle. Outdoor Activities • Enjoy the fresh air and the bright blue sky as you take a walk in the community. • Read your local newspaper or community newsletter regarding upcoming “free”outdoor concerts and events that may be just a bus ride away. • Get back to nature – try fishing. • Always seek doctor’s approval on any outdoor sports and exercise interest. If you are looking for some down time or simply need something to do on a rainy day, try some of these indoor activities: • Get a group together for scrapbooking or Book Club. • What is your favorite hobby? That special skill or talent of arts and crafts, quilting, knitting,

butts on the ground. Residents are to use designated trash containers to dispose of trash. 4. No alcoholic beverages are to be consumed anywhere in the common areas of the property. There should not be “open bottles” carried outside a resident’s apartment door. dancing, jewelry making or baking can be shared or taught to others. • Take a computer class. • Join a breakfast, lunch, or dinner club. Gather a group of friends and meet on a regular basis for meals and good conversation. These are just a few suggestions of activities to keep one busy the entire day. You have worked and cared for your family your entire life, so, now it’s time for you to enjoy and have fun!! Also, here are a few “House Rules” to be mindful of: 1. No loitering in the lobby, vestibule or sitting in the front entrance area. People should be able to enter and exit the building without obstruction.

5. No feeding the pigeons. Please do not place food anywhere on the grounds or windowsills at Spallino Towers. 6. Remind your guests and invitees of designated parking areas. Unauthorized vehicles will be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. 7. Be sure to double bag for proper disposal of any cat litter, solid dog waste, adult diapers and protection pads taken to the dumpster located in the rear of the building. 8. Respect the property and/or decorations placed on each floor. Do not remove or tamper with items. 9. Always be courteous, considerate and respectful to your neighbors. It is expected of residents not to infringe on the peaceful enjoyment of others.

2. Please do not smoke by the front doors or along the building. Smokers must be at least 100 feet from the entrance. 3. Littering is not permitted and this includes throwing cigarette

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A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Are You A Good Neighbor? J o n D ’ A m i c o , Ma n a g e r , B e l o v e d Co m m u n i t y

Invest Your Time. Invest your time in getting to know your neighbors. You may find that you have similar interests and hobbies or better yet, maybe you will learn something new.

A few basic steps of neighborly etiquette can go a long way when promoting a harmonious atmosphere for both you and the person next door. Say Hello. This can go a long way towards creating a peaceful environment. Smile. Let’s face it...a smiling face puts everyone in a better mood. Extend Yourself. Invite a neighbor over for dinner or a backyard barbecue. Reach Out. If you see your neighbor struggling

with all those groceries, offer a helping hand. Take Pride in Your Neighborhood. If you see trash or debris, pick it up. Be Respectful. Keep your music down. If you’re having a party or celebration, let your neighbors know ahead of time.

Be a Good Driver. Drive with caution and care. Always be mindful that there are kids, animals, walkers and bikers out on the street Don’t Leave Toys in the Front Yard. Whether its toys, car parts or lawn equipment, put them away when you’re done with them.

HAVE AN ADVANTAGE! The Advantage After-School Program for middle and high school students is accepting applications for the 2015-2016 school year.

ooking for that all around after-school program for your child? One that provides not only homework assistance and tutoring, but introduces your child to a variety of fun activities… well, we have the answer—the Advantage After-School Program! Sponsored by People and Possibilities, Inc. in collaboration with the Niagara Falls Housing Authority and the Niagara Falls City School District, the program offers cooking classes, yoga instruction,

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fitness classes, dance, karate classes, self-esteem building classes, SAT Prep, volunteer opportunities and much, much, more! The Advantage After-School Program program operates October– June and is held Monday–Friday at Niagara Falls High School (3:00 pm– 6:00 pm) and at LaSalle Preparatory School (2:30 pm–5:30 pm). Applications are available at all Niagara Falls Housing Authority communities, Niagara Falls High

School and LaSalle Preparatory School. For additional information, please contact Khaleelah Shareef at (716) 278-0228.

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Information To Help: Special Transportation for Persons with Disabilities S t e v e H a e f n e r , S e n i o r S e r v i c e s Co o r d i n a t o r The Paratransit Access Line (PAL) is a service offered through the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) that provides curb-to-curb, lift equipped van service to persons with disabilities who qualify. To qualify for PAL you must be unable to: Board, ride or disembark from a metro bus or rail vehicle or travel to and from a bus stop. Eligibility is determined by fillingout an application and getting certification through a qualified health care professional. A list of qualified health care professionals are listed on the application. After qualifying, trips may be scheduled up to 14 days in advance by calling the PAL reservation line. For further information or to obtain an application call PAL at 855-7268 (voice) or 855-7337(TDD), or call the Senior Services Department at 285-7812. Don’t Pay Your Medical Bills Without Reading Closely You go to your mailbox and get your mail. You sit down at your kitchen table and start reading it. Among the junk mail is a bill from a local hospital. As you read through the bill, you come to the bottom and see a very large dollar amount, which states that you owe this balance.

met. Your insurance carrier may believe the medical procedure is a duplication of services you’ve already received.

Do not panic. Do not reach for your checkbook and pen. Rather, draw your attention to the other information on this same bill. There should be a telephone number and an account number. Use this information and call the entity that generated this bill. Be sure to have your health insurance card(s), a notepad and pen, and the bill with you when you call. Doctor’s offices and large medical practices generate their billing using computers. Sometimes these groups may even use a third party to do their billing. Bills are sent out on a regular basis. There may be a number of reasons why a bill does not reflect that all or part of the bill is being covered by your insurance. The bill may have been generated before someone had the time to input the payment from your insurance provider. Your insurance provider may not have been billed because the medical provider does not have your current insurance information. You may have a deductible, which you’ve not yet

There are a great number of reasons “why” you may be billed by a medical provider. Whether or not you are responsible for paying the provider can be unraveled with a simple phone call. Individuals in billing departments can be very helpful. They can direct you on how to proceed. They will also mark your file to note that you are not ignoring the bill and did call. When you do speak to someone, either in the medical provider’s office or with your insurance carrier, do make note of it in your notes. Do include the date, time, and telephone number of the person you spoke with. Also, make note of their name and what you were told. If you find this process too difficult to do on your own, please contact the Senior Services Department for guidance and assistance. When you receive a bill for medical services, don’t just pay it. That is, don’t pay a bill until you are sure you are responsible for paying that bill. That can be done by taking a few simple steps.

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A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Saving Money on Transportation Costs Evelyn Buffone, Director of Finance Since the Great Recession, there have been many blogs and articles about budgeting, saving, and reducing your debt. The most common bits of advice tell you that you should add up what you spend every day, categorize it, and then examine the data so that you can find those items that aren’t necessary - but cost plenty over time. These usually wind up being things like your coffee habit, or eating out, or lottery tickets. When you add the items these things can add up to more than you think. However, there may be another item on the list that costs you a lot more than you realize – your vehicle. Costs of owning and driving include the monthly payment, gasoline, registration, taxes, and insurance, tires, and finance charges. The average cost per month for Americans is $725 (who own a typical mid-sized sedan) and more than $880 per month for an SUV. Transportation is a household’s second-largest expense after housing. Dealers know tricks to get you to spend more than you know you should. The most common is that they focus on the monthly payment – which is the worst way to decide if you can afford a vehicle. By focusing on just the monthly payment, you may not consider how many years you will pay, or the depreciation (which went up 4.10% in 2015), insurance (have

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you compared what the insurance rates are from one model to another), tires, taxes, and of course, gasoline. When you focus only on the monthly payment, you aren’t likely to notice that there’s an extra year’s worth of payments tacked on the life of the loan. Consider alternatives to buying a new vehicle. A used vehicle – 2 or 3 years old –has already had the most of the depreciation costs paid by the original owner. The average depreciation on a vehicle is $3,654 per year. If you buy a three-year old vehicle, you will have saved, on average, $10,962 from the cost of a new vehicle. Depreciation is the biggest cost of owning a new vehicle, so this is really an important consideration if you’re trying to find ways to save money on your transportation costs. Do you like to lease your vehicle? You can often drive a car that you would never be able to afford if you had to actually buy the same car. However, dealerships often give really low lease rates to brand new lease customers. Then,

customers find that in the next term of the lease, their next monthly lease payment is much higher than the original payment. There are also hidden costs such as being charged for being going over the mileage (between $0.15 and $0.25 per mile), costs to return the vehicle in prime condition (every little ding in the paint costs money), and new tires. Basically, the dealerships charge you (the lessee) the costs to get that car into prime condition to sell it to someone else. And, of course, you never own a vehicle that you can sell for money in case you’re strapped for cash and need to raise money fast. Working to raise your credit score will also lower your costs when buying a car. If your credit is poor, you may have no choice where to buy a vehicle, and may get stuck with higher interest rates and oversized loans. Insurance companies typically charge more for people with lower credit scores. Get your financing in order before you visit a car lot, preferably with a credit union. If you go to the dealer and their rates are better, you can always choose to do business with the dealer’s financing company – just remember that they will earn even more money on that vehicle. Reference: www.newsroom.aaa.com

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Lulu Westbrook-Griffin

Activist...Freedom Fighter...Prisoner...Educator K h a l e e l a h S h a r e e f , D i r e c t o r , Pa c k a r d C o u r t Co m m u n i t y C e n t e r When I heard that Lulu WestbrookGriffin was going to be the guest speaker at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at Niagara Falls High School on January 14, 2016, I was excited. I told Executive Director, Stephanie W. Cowart, about my connection to Lulu and she became very instrumental in providing me the opportunity to share a dynamic, informative and beautiful day and a half of listening and learning. You see, both Lulu and I are from Americus, Georgia. We both moved from that city almost 50 years ago. While we did not know each other back then, we attended the same schools, talked about the same streets and had visited the same Martins Theater that Lulu and many others tried to desegregate. We talked and laughed as if we had known each other all of our lives. Let me tell you a little bit about Lulu. In the summer of 1963, Lulu was behind bars, not because she had committed a criminal act, but because she and several other young girls stood up for justice. They were arrested for protesting at a whites-only movie theater in Americus, Georgia for trying to enter into the front entrance. Lulu and 32 other young girls were transported 25 miles away and imprisoned in a Civil War stockade near Leesburg,

Georgia for 45 days. The young girls endured horrible conditions. They didn’t have any blankets or mattresses and, therefore, had to sleep on the cold concrete floor, the single toilet was broken, the only running water was from a rusty shower head that dripped warm water, the meals were a daily ration of four undercooked hamburgers that made them very sick once eaten. After several weeks of imprisonment, a young photographer by the name of Danny Lyon risked his own life by sneaking into the Stockade and taking photographs of the young girls and the horrible conditions imposed on them. The pictures found their way into the hands of the Attorney General and the girls were released. Danny Lyon later became a well-known civil rights photographer.

days in Leesburg, Georgia. If you allow yourself to think about your life at the age of 10-12 years old, I don’t believe forced imprisonment for 45 days would come to mind. The opportunity to meet and talk with Lulu was an experience that I will never forget. Who knew at the age of 10 that Lulu and many other young girls would take a stand against racism in this country and thus become a part of the Civil Rights Movement. We truly thank Lulu WestbrookGriffin and all the other young girls who were forcibly imprisoned at such a young age and who endured horrible conditions to take a stand against injustice. “A Threat to Justice Anywhere is a Threat to Justice Everywhere” – Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. THANK YOU TO ALL WHO CONTINUE TO FIGHT AND STAND UP FOR INJUSTICES EVERYWHERE!

When Lulu came across a book that Danny Lyon had written, she made contact with him. That’s when she began to publicly tell her story about the horror of being locked away in a Stockade for 45

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A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

REST To m o r r o w R . A l l e n - Co l l i n s , G e n e ra l Ma n a g e r , D o r i s W. J o n e s Fa m i l y Re s o u r c e B u i l d i n g As we head into spring, we think of all the wonderful things that we can do. In as much as life is about great moments, we cannot forget to balance those moments with rest so that we can be our best selves at home, work, and play. We must value rest enough to proactively establish the habit structures that reinforce restoration through sleep and reflection. Our long-term success depends on it. Our present success is enhanced by it. Here are a few “best practices”to keep in mind when planning your approach to rest: Manage Your Time & Make Time For Sleep – Time is not a renewable resource - once spent, it is never recovered (this makes it more valuable than currency). Every one of us has 24 hours in a day with which to work and manage. Purposefully rethink how you use it (e.g. to whom and to what you give your energy). Make every effort to line up the use of this time with your values. Protect your days off. Work Smarter, Not Harder – To state it in a positive sense, rest makes us smarter. When you don’t get enough rest you are more liable to make costly mistakes that require re-work and create stress. Proper rest will help you make the most effective use of the time that you do work. Invest in Hobbies & Your Support System – Set time aside each day for activities and people you enjoy. Use them to unwind from the stress of your day and to renew your enthusiasm. Don’t spend all of your 45

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home and work, thus putting your mind to rest. Plan Time for Reflection – Find or create a quiet place for thinking, reviewing, censuring, and prioritizing the day. This will maximize your capacity for learning and planning.

energy at work – intentionally leave some for those at home. Take Micro-Breaks – During your workday, take a minute or two to break away from your work and reward yourself with a stretch, a walk, a snack, or friendly conversation; it works wonders! Define Your Availability – Protect your time off from interruptions and distractions. If you have a lunch break, take it! Make these times of availability a habit and publicize them so that those who depend on you know what to expect. You have to use the “off switch” during these times and turn off your cell phone and other electronic leashes. You don’t owe anyone an excuse for protecting your source of vitality and effectiveness. Develop Others Through Delegation – Involve and engage others with opportunities to learn and take on new responsibilities. Every task they can successfully take on is potentially an investment in your ability to rest while you are out. There is nothing like processes and people that can fulfill the mission of the organization in your absence; at

Make Time for Solitude – Some psychiatrists believe that if the brain is to function at its best, the individual has a need for solitude. Solitude simply means to set time aside to be alone. Spiritual Engagement – It only makes sense that if we are to attend to the body and mind, we should also attend to our spiritual component. Utilize reading and fellowship to renew yourself spiritually. This recommendation may surpass all the others, as it concerns itself with the very source of our life and energy. Avoid the Guilt – Rest is not inactivity. Its purpose is to increase your effectiveness and this is in the best interest of your reputation and the needs of your family and co-workers. Conclusions While rest is counter-culture to the 24/7 global economy that never sleeps, it is an essential characteristic of effectiveness. While we all know we need to rest, many of us sabotage our own success when we fail to leverage it in our lifestyles. Rest well.

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A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

Learning, Making and Becoming History S a m i k a S u l l i va n , ST YA C o o r d i n a t o r “Who sells Girl Scout cookies in the ghetto, shouldn’t we be at Walmart or something?” That was one child’s question as we discussed the idea of setting up cookie booths in the neighborhood.

contributions to the country and the world.

My response to her was, “We do, and why shouldn’t we?” Why should the people in our neighborhoods not have access to cookies like the people who can get to Walmart? There is so much to be learned through these interactions with our youth. Specifically, as we work to open their eyes to new opportunities.

goals. In doing such, we are remiss if we do not learn our history and how it relates to our current and future lives and examine everything in its historic context. As we spent the month of February focused on Black History, we embrace the honor of sharing

We enjoyed a lively Black History Program at the Lockport High School Performing Arts Center, in which the youth saw African dancers and drummers, an amazing Black History art exhibit, African American puppeteers. In addition, the students had the opportunity to interact with a variety of people including a well-known radio personality. A few weeks later the youth enjoyed the experience of learning African dances and drums at the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center,

NFHA residents selling Girl Scout cookies. As a New Year dawns, we are excited about all of the possibilities that “newness” brings. It is also a time to reflect on ourselves, our lives and our future

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this great African and American history with our youth through a series of experiences that teach the importance of celebrating and highlighting all citizen’s

from the very people they were so fond to watch on stage at the previous event. They also learned the great history of African Americans in the Western New York

A WORD FROM OUR STAFF

area from historian Eva Doyle. Several youth participated in a Black History program at the Beloved Community Center, hosted by a Beloved Community resident, in which they chose pieces of history that they wanted to share with the community, including the story of Crispus Attucks and a flier for a slave auction. The smiles on their faces showed pride in their history, but most importantly pride in themselves. The youth attended the University at Buffalo Distinguished speaker series where they had an opportunity to listen to internationally renowned legal theorist Charles J. Ogletree.

Learning African dances and drums at the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center

We crashed, Canvas Crashers to enjoy a painting class. “But I can’t do it Miss Samika I can’t draw...I don’t know how to paint, I’m not creative” they all chimed as we entered the painting studio. What emerged from the studio was a unique work of art in the hand of each and every child and adult, who discovered a “can” in front of their “can’t.” As a result, becoming history. Each day, each session, each youth and each family will strive to put their energy into developing a world in which our youth are proud to live and show it with their contributions, whether it be selling Girl Scout cookies, creating a masterpiece for their living room, or becoming the next Charles Olgetree. Our goal is to assist them as they create and become our history!

Showing off their paintings at Canvas Crashers

Our goal is to assist them as they create and become our history!

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Calendar of Events TUESDAYS Free line dancing lessons 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

SEPTEMBER 14, 2015 – JUNE 3, 2016 Livin’ Large and I Can Read After School Tutorial Programs 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm (Tuesdays 2:30 pm—6:00 pm) For children and youth in grades K-12 Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building, 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls Packard Court Community Center, 4300 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls

SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 – JUNE 3, 2016

JULY 5, 2016 – AUGUST 6, 2016

Advantage After School Program 3:00 pm–6:00 pm For middle and high schoolers Niagara Falls High School, 4455 Porter Road, Niagara Falls LaSalle Preparatory School, 7436 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls

Summer Enrichment Program Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

MAY 19, 2016 Good for the Neighborhood Program 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm 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 and more! Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

AUGUST 8 – 9, 2016 Honeywell Adventures in Environmental Leadership Program Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

OCTOBER 21, 2016 NFHA GOES PINK EVENT 5:00 pm Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 Ninth Street, Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls Housing Authority 2016 Holiday Schedule Our offices will be closed on the following dates: May

November

30 – Memorial Day

11 – Veteran’s Day 24 – Thanksgiving Day 25 – Day after Thanksgiving

July 4 – Independence Day

September 5 – Labor Day

October 10 – Columbus Day

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December 25 – Christmas Day

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