Winter 2016

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Opelika Housing Authority (OHA) is to provide drug-free, decent, safe, and sanitary housing for eligible families, to provide opportunities and to promote self-

sufficiency and economic independence for residents.

The Opelika Housing Authority Warriors 12 and under team.

Coach Jerome Pollard

The Opelika Housing Authority Warriors 15 and under team.

Coach Maurice Johnson

The Opelika Housing Authority Warriors 18 and under team.

Coach Willie Payne

NEW HORIZONSNEW HORIZONSthe opelika housing authority

warriors basketball teams

Looking back, the year 2015 was one with its unique successes and challenges. The highlight of the year for the Opelika Housing Authority has to be transitioning from Low Rent Public Housing Program to the Section 8 Multi Family’s Project Based Rental Assistant (PBRA) Program under the Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Rental Assistance Demonstration Program (RAD). We are the first Housing Authority in the state of Alabama to completely convert its Public Housing portfolio with the RAD program. Nothing felt as good as participating in a program that will better address our capital needs backlog with private debt and equity investments. With RAD we will have a predictable source of funding with a 20 year (long term) Section 8 contract.

In 2016, our plan is to begin/complete the modernization efforts at our properties in the Raintree Street area. Two thirds of the units in the Raintree area have been modernized. The modernization efforts of the remaining units will include, but is not limited to, installing central heat/air condition, washer and dryer connections, cable connection in all the rooms, ceiling fans in the master bedrooms and living rooms, telephone connections in every room and the kitchen, holding bars in all the bathtubs and brand new parking lots in front of some of the units just to name a few. In short, we intend to modernize the units with all the amenities of a conventional rental unit as reflected in other modernized units in the area. Our architects have been working diligently with us to achieve this goal.

We plan to start meeting the Raintree residents that will be affected by the modernization efforts as soon as the construction bid is awarded. Allow me this opportunity to express our sincere thanks and appreciation for your patience and cooperation during the construction of the units. Please call your property manager if you require further details or information regarding the modernization period.

Allow me this opportunity to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone who participated in the 2016 SERC-NAHRO Martin Luther King Basketball Tournament. Special thanks to the players, parents, coaches, staff, commissioners, OHA Resident Advisory Board members, City of Opelika Parks and Recreation representatives, Opelika Schools and others including our sponsors. There aren’t enough words to express our gratitude.

I wish you enough hope to keep you looking always beyond the problems to the solutions, courage to endure all the adversities, love to reach out and care for those struggling, defeated and broken. Do not feel defeated in 2016. I know that if you follow your dreams you could never lose for long. Please make 2016 your greatest year yet. Above all, I wish you excellent health, wealth, peace, everlasting joy and happiness.

As always, I look forward to seeing you at the next Resident Advisory Board meeting. I want to hear what you have to say and know how we are doing. Until then, I wish you all the joy the New Year brings.

Akinola PopoolaExecutive Director

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF

OPELIKA, ALABAMA

MAYOR OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, AL

The Honorable Gary Fuller

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

Mrs. Henrietta Snipes, ChairpersonMr. Sam R. Huling, Vice Chair

Mr. John Pruitt,Sr. CommissionerDr. William Whatley,III, Commissioner

Ms. Tasha Fuller, Commissioner

Executive DirectorMr. Akinola Popoola

“NEW HORIZONS”

IS PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY

OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA

AKINOLA POPOOLA,

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

POST OFFICE BOX 786

OPELIKA, ALABAMA 36803-0786

The Housing Authority Board of Commissioners meet on the 3rd Monday of each month.

Editor: Karen Reese

Printing by: Craftmaster Printers, INC.Auburn, Alabama

Cover photo: The Opelika Housing Authority Warriors Basketball Team

Martin Luther King Basketball Tournament Opelika, AL

For over two decades the Annual Southeastern Regional Council of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials Martin Luther King Basketball Tournament has taken place in a variety of cities and states in the southeastern United States. It has been impacting the lives of youth participating in housing authority programs. For these youth this annual event is a weekend of cultural experiences, learning, comradery and some great basketball by tremendous athletes. This event impacts our youth served by our programs throughout the year by connecting them

with coaches and mentors who provide them with positive role models. As the teams practice for each year’s tournament, they are being coached not only in the sport of basketball, but also in life. By setting educational standards in order to compete, these youth are striving to maintain GPAs that make them eligible to travel each January. For the youth and their chaperons and coaches, this annual weekend event is life changing. Celebrating the life and legacy of Martin L. King, Jr., this annual event also captures the philosophy of service to others.

This year the Opelika Housing Authority sponsored the tournament with assistance from the City of Opelika’s Parks and Recreation Department and the Opelika City Schools. It was a great opportunity for the young people, their family members, chaperons and coaches to see what the Opelika-Auburn area had to offer. In addition to playing basketball the Opelika Housing Authority provided an opportunity for the teams, parents, chaperons and coaches to visit Auburn University where they had an opportunity to listen to basketball/track student athletes tell their life stories. The student athletes encouraged the youth to stay in school, reach their goals, and obtain a college education. All attendees were able to tour the football and basketball complexes which was the highlight of this educational event.

On Friday evening January 16, 2016, all teams were invited to a beautiful banquet hosted by the Opelika Housing Authority that was held at Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church. The teams arrived looking very handsome and the cheer leaders were elegantly dressed. A wide variety of food was served and enjoyed by all attendees. Akinola Popoola, Executive Director of the Opelika Housing Authority served as the master of ceremony for this event. Henrietta Snipes, Chair of the OHA Board of Commissioners gave greetings and introductions. Mayor Gary Fuller of the City of Opelika gave a great welcome to all present. A highlight of the evening was the guest speakers, Mrs. Mae Washington

2016 Serc-Nahro

Continued on next page...

and Mayor Eddie Lowe of Phenix City, Alabama, both gave inspirational messages to all present. The evening ended with an “Opening Ceremony” for the tournament and the recognition of all teams present. Tommy Agee, Assistant Director of Opelika Parks and Recreation gave the rallying charge for the 2016 Martin Luther King Basketball Tournament games to begin!

The tournament style elimination games took place on January 17, 2016. The teams were divided into three age categories: 12 years of age and under, 15 years of age under and 18 years of age and under. The championship game for the 18 years of age and under was held on January 18, 2016 at the Opelika Sportsplex.

The Opelika Housing Authority teams coached by Maurice Johnson, Willie Payne and Jerome Pollard won two games and the 3 point shoot-out. Although they did not compete in any of the championship games, the OHA Warriors were winners and conducted themselves appropriately. The members of the Warriors are: Jadavian Kelly, Rodney Parker, Malek Lockhart, Jarquarvious Greathouse, Montavious Dawson, Jadarrel Kelley, Jalynn Kelly, Jaquez Jones, Ronald Hughley, Kendrick Stinson, Nicholas Carlise, Donquavious Hill, Tolelonda Menefield, LeJamius Core, Raheem Menefield, Trese Mitchell, Keyon Black, DeShazeion Johnson,

Quinderion Preston, Malik Wilson, Ja’Quavia Ross, Da’Quan Spratling, Arthur Crittenden, Typaris Story, Tyquavious Tolefree, Demon Marshall, Bryon Greathouse, Marquavious Daniel, Quin Oliver, Tyshaaon Cooper, Zion Curry, Izayrius Ray, Tre Lockhart, Hosea Brown, Tori Roberts, Ty Roberson, Tay Hardnett, Keshawn Tolefree, Anthony McGuire and Dearious Jointer.

The following housing authorities in the state of Alabama had teams participating in the tournament; Birmingham, Eufaula, Huntsville, Opp, Andalusia, Montgomery, Tuskegee, Alexander City and Phenix City. The following housing authorities in the state of Georgia had teams participating; Thomson, Hinesville and Camilla. The following housing authorities in the state of North Carolina had teams participating: Greensboro and Statesville. From the state of Mississippi we had one team from Laurel Housing Authority. There were also some beautiful cheerleaders from North Carolina who did a great job cheering for their teams. On Monday, January 18, 2016, everyone was afforded the opportunity to participate in the Opelika Annual MLK March from Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church to Opelika High School where the MLK Program was held.

Congratulations to Jason Stephens of the Opelika Housing Authority! The winner of the Martin Luther King Tournament 15 and Under 3 Point Shoot Out. Coach Maurice Johnson and Opelika Housing Authority’s Executive

Director Akinola Popoola shared his victory! The Opelika Housing Authority is so very

proud of this young man.

Martin Luther King Basketball Tournament Winners

2016 Serc-Nahro

18 and under Statesville Housing Authority

Statesville, NC

15 and under Laurel Housing Authority

Laurel, MS

12 and under Eufaula Housing Authority

Eufaula , AL

ATTENTION OHA RESIDENTS! IF YOU NEED MONEY TO FURTHER YOUR EDUCATION, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY FOR 2016!!

Highlights of the AHAEEF/AAHRA Education Scholarship Awards for 2016

If you are entering college, trade school or technical school for the first time, you must expect to receive a Diploma or General Education Development (GED) Certificate by July 5, 2016. Any applicant continuing their college careers, regardless of age is eligible. Prior year applicants and recipients are eligible to apply again for this scholarship.

The applications from high school students will be judged primarily on academic achievement; however, extracurricular school and community activities and achievement will also be considered. Success in core curriculum courses will have a bearing on the weight given to academic achievements.The applications from adult applicants will be judged primarily on grades/volunteer services, resume, personal essays and recommendations.

Remember! There are two separate application forms; one is for high school seniors or recent high school graduates, and the other is for adult applicants seeking post-secondary education.

Applications and general information are available on the AAHRA website at www.AAHRA.org. All applications must be completed on-line, and then printed out for signatures. You also need a letter of sponsorship from OHA Executive Director, Akinola Popoola. You may use the OHA Computer Lab to complete your application. Call to schedule a day/time to come in.

Please turn in all applications with supporting documentation by March 9, 2016, to Keren Reese, Director of Resident Services. My office is located in the Samford Housing Management Office at 1202 Samford Way, Opelika, AL 36803.

If you have any questions or need any assistance, please contact the OHA Resident Services Department at (334)749-5468. We are available to assist you every step of the way!

Remember to submit all information by March 9, 2016

so we can review it to make sure that you have all the needed documentation. We will submit

your AHAEEF application and all other needed

documentation on your behalf.

TAX TIMETax time is here and many people already have plans for their money. This is a time of celebration and splurging on buying a big ticket item. Here are some recommendations for anyone expecting a refund this year.

Save first. Put some money aside in a savings account. It is ideal to save 10%, but even if you can save a little bit that could be a big help later on.

Make plans for your money before you receive it. Without making preparations, it can be harder to set aside and to spend wisely.

You must decide what is a “need” versus what is a “want” when it comes to spending money.

Learn how to prepare your taxes yourself to save money instead of paying a tax preparer to do them for you. File your taxes as early as possible in order to lessen the chance of you becoming a victim of identity theft.

A GREAT RESOURCE

There is a great resource at the Raintree Community Center that is available to all residents. The Computer Lab is available to ALL residents! Check your monthly Resident Calendar for the dates/times the Computer Lab is open. Residents may search for jobs, update resumes or practice your computer skills for your job. If you have any questions, contact Karen Reese, Director of Resident Services at (334) 749-5468.

PROJECT UPLIFT

Could your child benefit from having a positive role model in his/her life? If so, Project Uplift has a program that could provide that opportunity. As a little brother/sister, your child will be paired with an adult volunteer mentor. This mentor would offer your child support, friendship, and one-on-one time attention for several hours each month. If you have any questions or are interested in enrolling or referring a child, please contact Project Uplift at (334) 844-4430.

JOIN OUR SASSY SENIOR CLUB

Calling all OHA residents! If you are 62 years of age and older, we have an activity just right for you! Our young-at-heart residents meet at least once every month to spend time together having fun! We have various presenters come in and provide training and useful information that is specifically geared toward seniors, such as avoiding trips and falls, living wills, health insurance information and health screenings. We also provide a once a month bill paying and shopping trip to area businesses and stores. Transportation is provided by the OHA. So if you are interested in joining us, please call the Resident Services Department at (334) 749-5468. We look forward to seeing you real soon!!!

SOCIAL SECURITY INFORMATION

Social Security benefit letters can be retrieved on the Social Security website by registering with my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.org or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

NOTES FROM MAINTENANCE

In effort to control costs to our residents and to the OHA, listed below are some reminders:

• Please do not put anything other than toilet paper in the toilet. This includes diapers and sanitary napkins.

• If you need batteries for your smoke detectors please call your Property Managers.

DO NOT REMOVE YOUR SMOKE DETECTOR!

These items are considered emergencies: No lights or electricity in your unit, no heat in your unit, water flooding your unit and the only toilet in your unit is stopped up.

OPELIKA HOUSING AUTHORITY EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

MAURICE JOHNSON

All of us at the Opelika Housing Authority would like to congratulate Maurice Johnson, Maintenance Mechanic Pleasant Circle

Property for being selected Employee of the Year. Maurice has proven he is a dedicated worker and goes the extra mile to get his job completed. He shows genuine concern for our residents and offers a ready smile. He was presented with a plaque, a check and a day off with pay.

CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S JOB CORPS

Christian Women’s Job Corp (CWJC) is more than just a program for women. It is a unique way of helping women to discover their potential. Christian Women’s Job Corp was lunched in the spring of 2007, since that time they have worked with dozens of women who wanted to change their lives. CWJC offers one on one mentoring, new life skills, job readiness preparation, bible study and internships at area businesses. During

2015, three OHA residents graduated from CWJC: Iris Pinkard, Brenda Davis and Raven Wallace. CWJC is currently interviewing prospective candidates for their upcoming classes, to be held beginning February 22, 2016. If you are interested, please contact Neely Caldwell at(334) 821-0591 or by email at Neeley@cwjclc.com

HAPPY RETIREMENT LINDA SUMMERS, JAMES MCSWAIN AND RICKY STRINGER

December was a sad and happy month for the Opelika Housing Authority. Three of our long term employees recently retired. They were Linda Summers, Intake Coordinator; James McSwain, HCV Inspector; and Rick Stringer, Maintenance Mechanic. Linda, James and Rick all worked at the OHA for many years. Their first priority was always to our residents; they set their standards high and did great jobs. We wish them well in their retirement.

ON THE REPORTING YOUR INCOME PAGE

Reporting your correct income is extremely important. All income has to be reported whether it is Child Support, Social Security, wages from a job, unemployment, or TANF. This includes income from all heads of household and adults (18 and over) household members. HUD has a system in place called EIV (Enterprise Income Verification System) that can pull all income sources. It is important to us that you understand these policies. If you have any questions, please contact your Property Managers.

Reducing residents’ risks in winter is especially important because of the cold weather issues. To assist us we ask that anytime you see a potential unsafe condition; you should inform your Property Managers, so that the maintenance crew can address the situation. Conditions such as ice on the walkways, security lights being out, trip hazards in paths of travel and any other situation that may be creating an unsafe condition should be called in, so that OHA can take corrective action. With your assistance we can make our properties as safe as possible.

SIMPLE THINGS TO DO FOR A SAFE AND CLEAN COMMUNITY

TRA’SHAY RODGERS

The OHA would like for all our residents to live in a safe and clean environment. Please take the time to do a few simple things so you won’t have to pay any fines. The trash truck runs weekly in your neighborhood. If maintenance puts the trash can out for you, you will be fined $35.00. If maintenance has to return your trash can back to your unit, you will also be fined $35.00. Make sure you put your trash can back after the trash is picked up.

Please pick up the trash and cigarette butts in the front, side and rear of your unit. This is a $35.00 fine. If you or your guests dispose of trash in the parking lots, you will be fined $35.00. If the trash is in between two units, both units will each receive a $35.00 fine.

Please keep your children away from the windows and cars as they play with balls and do not allow them to throw items on the roof. If there

are any balls, toys, trash etc., on your roof, you will be charged a $35.00 fine.

If maintenance replaces your smoke detector because you removed it from the wall or if the batteries have been removed, you will be fined $50.00.

ALWAYS REMEMBER! The City of Opelika Boom Truck runs as follows: every Monday morning in the Cherry, North and South Antioch, W. E. Morton and Toomer areas; every Thursday morning in the Pleasant Circle area and every Tuesday morning in the Samford/Raintree and Plum areas. The OHA Boom truck runs Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. If you have any large items, make sure you put them out on these days. If you should have any questions please feel free to contact your Property Managers.

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT YOU ARE ON CAMERA!

Please be advised Opelika Housing Authority has 24 hour surveillance in most of our properties. The Opelika Housing Authority Security officers, Roosevelt Finley and Marcus Colquitt patrol the Opelika Housing Authority communities on a daily basis.

The Opelika Housing Authority also on a yearly basis publishes a booklet called the TRESSPASS/BAN LIST. Persons listed on the trespass/ban list are banned from all properties managed by the Opelika Housing Authority. Residents are asked to contact the local police and Opelika Housing Authority Security officers, if anyone listed in the Trespass/Ban List is seen on Opelika Housing Authority property. If someone is on the Trespass/Ban list and they

are caught in your unit, you may be subject to eviction.

Some safety tips to always remember are: Don’t allow strangers into your home, even if they are hurt or need help. Keep the door locked and call the police for them. Don’t leave notes on your door announcing when you will not be home. Keep outdoor lights on at night. If you arrive home and your door is open or things appear to be out of place, don’t go in. Leave and call 911. Use good judgement when faced with problems of illegal drug use or sales or other criminal activity in your neighborhood. It is important to report, but it is equally important to report it safely. Contact names/numbers are listed below:

OPELIKA

Opelika Police Department: 911 (FOR ALL EMERGENCIES)

Opelika Police: (334) 705-5200

Officer Roosevelt Finley: (334) 319-3611

Officer Marcus Colquitt: (334) 319-2307

Opelika Resident Hotline: (334) 704-0072

CAMP HILL

Camp Hill Police Department: (256) 896-4411 Camp Hill Resident Hotline: (256) 896-0158

It takes all of us working together to make our communities a safe place to live!

IMPORTANT NUMBERSIMPORTANT NUMBERS

The Housing Authorityof the City of OpelikaPost Office Box 786Opelika, Alabama 36803-0786

The Opelika Housing Authority does not discriminate against any person in employment or resident services because of race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or familial status.

EMERGENCY CALLS........................................................................................................... 911

Central Office and Toomer Office........................................................................................ (334) 745-4171

Samford Office..................................................................................................................... (334) 745-7537

Pleasant Office......................................................................................................................(334) 741-7466

Camp Hill Office................................................................................................................... (256) 896-4138

Resident Services Department ........................................................................................... (334) 749-5468

Opelika Police Department.................................................................................................. (334) 705-5200

Camp Hill Police Department............................................................................................... (256) 896-4411

RESIDENT HOT-LINE............................................................................................................(334) 704-0072