The SERCulator by Douglas Freeman

N E W S L E T T E R

W i n t e r

Southeastern Regional Council of Housing and CD Professionals National Association of Housing Redevelopment Officials

2 0 1 7

Winter 2017

Editorial Staff

Managing Editor/Photography Paula Robertson, PR Designs Contributing Editors Alabama................... Beverly Barber Florida ............................Lisa Landers ..................................... Lillian Stringer Georgia........................Reta Thomas ........................................ Ella Murphy Kentucky......................Robin Wilden Mississippi.....................Rita McKissick North Carolina.......... Shaunte Evans South Carolina........... Pancea Lewis Virginia..................... Madelyn Peavy

SERC REGION: Alabama Florida

COVER PHOTO: Fireplace at the Omni Grove Park Inn.

Georgia

TABLE of CONTENTS:

Kentucky

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s message.......................................... 3

Mississippi

SERC officers....................................................... 4

North Carolina

SERC committees............................................... 5

South Carolina Tennessee

SERC committee meetings............................ 6-7

Virginia

State news..................................................... 8-16

West Virginia

SERC-NAHRO Annual Conference............ 18-23 Legislative update........................................... 24

The SERCulator is the official publication of the Southeastern Regional Council of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. The SERCulator is published quarterly. Comments, suggestions, articles, features and photographs are solicited in interest of the members of Southeastern Regional Council of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. Although all submissions are subject to approval and editing, every effort will be made to publish submissions based on available space. Photos cannot be returned. Send submissions to: Paula Robertson, 662-268-8402, email: pauladesigns22@gmail. com or Reta Thomas, email: rthomas@augustapha.org

2017 SERC Annual Conference...................... 26 Request for silent auction items...................... 28 2017 poster contest ........................................ 29 SERCulator ad insertion................................... 31 Recognitions..................................................... 32 HUD update...................................................... 33 SERCulator subscription order......................... 34 SERC upcoming events................................... 36

The SERCulator 2

A message from your SERC President Greetings Serc Colleagues: The elections are over; the 115th Congress is in place; HUD Secretary-elect Ben Carson has been through his Senate confirmation hearing; and by the time you read this, we will have inaugurated a new United States President. The peaceful transition in government that is inherent in our democratic process has occurred. If the candidates, now our elected officials, are true to their words, change can be expected over the next months and years. How far-reaching these changes may be remains Dave Baldwin to be seen. SERC-NAHRO President Those of us who have been involved in the affordable housing industry for a good while have seen the cycle of policies changing with different administrations. There is no doubt that the “politics” of the party in power has an impact on the types of changes that occur. As the power swings like a pendulum from one party to the other, we see policies shift from one pointof-view to a different, if not opposite, point-of-view. So, yes, change is coming. Some of it may be welcome, and some of it notso-much. Together we will continue to advocate for policies and budgets that support families, seniors and disabled individuals who need affordable housing. We will thank the powers-that-be when change is favorable; and we will redouble our advocacy efforts when change is not headed where we want it. This is not an insurmountable task; it is just a continuous one. It’s part of our democratic process. No matter what our personal politics may be, or who is in power at the national level, we “housers” share a common purpose. We, with boots on the ground, tend to live in a reality that is somewhere in between the endpoints of the pendulum swings in D.C., and we are doing what needs to be done to serve the needs of our residents and our communities. An effective democracy is built upon the participation of the people. We, the people, have an excellent opportunity to participate in our democracy and to impact the direction of change in our industry by visiting our legislators during the NAHRO Washington Conference, March 26-28. I hope you can be there. Over the course of the decades, there tends to be a certain rhythm to the swings of power and policy in our federal government. In this year of electoral transition, the theme for our 2017 SERC-NAHRO Annual Conference, “Moving to the Rhythm of Change,” is particularly appropriate. By summer we may have a better idea of how the new administration might want to move our industry. Join us in Nashville June 25-28, where we can discuss the most up-to-date news and information available, and manage our future…together. “Everyone needs and deserves a place to call home.” That’s what we do, as best we can, within the framework of our democracy. Nobody ever said it was going to be easy. Dave Baldwin, SERC President

SERC-NAHRO Executive Committee Meeting ~ Destin Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa `~ Destin, Florida

March 10th ~ 11th

Make your reservations NOW at the Hilton. Last Date: Tuesday, February 7

No matter what our personal politics may be, or who is in power at the national level, we “housers” share a common purpose. We, with boots on the ground, tend to live in a reality that is somewhere in between the endpoints of the pendulum swings in D.C., and we are doing what needs to be done to serve the needs of our residents and our communities.

SERC OFFICERS I 2015-2017 President Dave Baldwin Bristol Redevelopment & Housing Authority 809 Edmond Street Bristol, VA 24201-4385 Phone:(276) 821-6255 Fax:(276) 642-2009 dbaldwin@brha.com Senior Vice President Sean Gilbert Knoxville Community Development Corp. 901 N Broadway Street Knoxville, TN 37917 Phone:(865) 403-1209 Fax:(865) 594-0266 sgilbert@kcdc.org Secretary Jeanette Henderson Albany Housing Authority PO Box 485 Albany, GA 31702 Phone:(229) 434-4505 Fax:(229) 434-4509 jhenderson@albanyhousingauthority.com Treasurer Mark Taylor Charleston Housing Authority PO Box 86 Charleston, WV 25321 Phone:(304) 348-6451 Fax:(304) 348-6455 mtaylor@charlestonhousing.com VP of Housing Shaundra Clark Tifton Housing Authority PO Box 12 Tifton, GA 31794 Phone: (229) 382-5434 Fax: (229) 382-1327 thasclark@bellsouth.net VP of Professional Development Cindy Preast Harrington Bluefield Housing Authority PO Box 1475 Bluefield, WV 24701 Phone: (304) 325-9653 Fax: (304) 325-9539 cindybha@comcast.net VP of Member Services Anthony Goodson, Jr. Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro 700 N. Jefferson Ave Goldsboro, NC 27530 Phone: (919) 735-4226 Fax: (919) 731-4402 agoodson@hacg.org VP of CR&D Michael Wong Harrisonburg Redevelopment & Housing Authority

PO Box 1071 Harrisonburg, VA 22803 Phone: (540) 434-7386 Fax: (540) 432-1113 wongway@harrisonburgrha.com VP of Commissioners Johnny Johnson Mississippi Regional Housing Authority IV PO Box 1051 Columbus, MS 39703 Phone: (662) 327-8986 jbj.aphia@yahoo.com

David E. Baldwin is the executive director/CEO of the Bristol Redevelopment and Housing Authority in Bristol, VA. He has been employed in the public and assisted housing industry since 1977, serving at three public housing agencies. Dave has been at Bristol since 2003. He is a past-president of the Virginia Association of Housing and Community Development Officials. He has served as senior vice president, treasurer, and vice president with portfolio, and is the current president of the Southeast Regional Council of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (SERC-NAHRO). Sean Gilbert is the senior vice president of housing for the Knoxville Community Development Corporation in Knoxville, TN where he has been for the past two years. Sean has his bachelor’s degree in urban planning from Virginia Tech. He was the executive director of Housing Authority of Pikeville, August 1995–February 2014. Sean serves as the senior vice president for SERC. Jeanette Henderson is the deputy director of housing services for the Albany Housing Authority in Albany, GA. She has a bachelor’s degree in sociology and has 30 years experience in public housing management. Jeanette is a former president of GAHRA, and she currently serves as chairperson of the commissioner’s committee and as a member of the scholarship committee. Jeanette also serves as secretary for SERC and is a member of NAHRO’s housing committee. Mark E. Taylor is the CEO of the Charleston-Kenawha Housing Authority. He has over 16 years experience in public housing and holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Mark is a district two board member for WVAHA. He is the current treasurer for SERC and is a past vice president for housing and for CR&D. Shaundra Clark of Tifton, GA is the current vice president of housing for SERC. Shaundra serves as executive director at the Tifton, GA housing authority and has over 21 years experience in public housing. She holds a business administration degree as well as a master’s in public policy and administration. Shaundra is chairperson of the convention committee and past president for GAHRA, and has served on numerous SERC committees in the past. Cindy Peast Harrington is the Executive Director of Bluefield Housing Authority in Bluefield, WV. Cindy has over 31 years of experience working with Public Housing Agencies, with the last 26 serving in the position of Executive Director at Bluefield. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Marshall University and Master’s Degree from Mountain State University. She has served as Board Member, Secretary, Vice President and President of the West Virginia Association of Housing Agencies, as well as on numerous committees. She is currently serving as Chair of the WVAHA Professional Development Committee. Cindy has also served on several SERC committees, including Rental Assistance (Chair), Nominating, History and Archival (Chair), and Professional Development. She served as Program Chair for the 2015 Annual Conference and is serving as Annual Conference Chair for the 2017 Annual Conference. Anthony Goodson, Jr is the chief executive officer of the Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro in Goldsboro, NC. He has approximately 12 years service in public housing and serves as the board secretary for CCHRCO. Anthony is vice president of member services for SERC and serves as a member of the 40 under 40 committee and the rental assistance committee. Michael Wong is the executive director of the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority. He has 15 years service in public housing and is past president of VAHCDO. Michael serves as vice president of CR&D for SERC and as a member of the legislative committee. He has a bachelor’s degree in economics from James Madison University. Johnny Johnson of Houston, MS has served as president of Regional Housing Authority IV Board for the past 21 years. He also currently serves as the president of commissioners for the South Eastern Regional Housing Authority. He received “Commissioner of the Year” for the National Association of Housing for the year 2013. Johnny is retired from the military where he was a bronze star recipient, and is a retired educator having taught in both the Mississippi and Alabama public school systems. His other community service includes serving as the grand senior warden for the M.W. Stringer Grand Lodge for the State of Mississippi. He is the worshipful master for McIntosh Lodge #80, in Houston, MS. He served on the State of Mississippi Personnel Board as president, Hospital Auxiliary Board, Chamber of Commerce Board, United Way Education Chairman, and the CAFB Community Council.

SERC COMMITTEES I CHAIRS I 2015-2017 Executive Committee Steering Committee

President Sr. VP Secretary Treasurer VP Commissioners VP Professional Development VP CR&D VP Member Services VP Housing

Dave Baldwin Sean Gilbert Jeanette Henderson Mark Taylor Johnny Johnson Susan Lillis Michael Wong Anthony Goodson, Jr. Shaundra Clark

State Representatives AL FL GA KY MS NC TN SC VA WV

Lance Armstrong Miguell Del Campillo Angela Strickland Shauna Boom Judy Mellard Bobbi Warmack 2016 / Burne Jim Payne Donna Lamer Lisa Porter Vickie Lester

Past Presidents Immediate PP Second PP Third PP

Ailrick Young Thomas Rowe Tina Akers-Brown

President’s Portfolio

Dave Baldwin

Small Agency Task Force Youth Leadership Development Executive Committee Coordinator Strategic Plan Coordinator

VA TN GA WV MS KY VA NC GA

Senior Vice President’s Portfolio

Secretary’s Portfolio

History/Archival Committee Resolutions

Treasurer’s Portfolio

Shannon Biggs (Chair) Donna Lamer Connie Howard Jake Oglesby Angie Strickland Judy Mellard Angela Childers Antonio Williams Charlie Harrington Tom Wachs

2017—Nashville, TN Conference Chair Program Chairperson Exhibits Chairperson Registration Opening Ceremony Ushers Awards Ceremony Flag Ceremony Golf Tournament Hospitality Emerging Leaders

Cindy Preast (Chair) WV Royal Ann Spencer MS Connie Howard SC Jake Oglesby GA Angie Strickland GA Joyce Floyd TN Angela Childers SC Shaunte Evans NC Charlie Harrington VA Tom Wachs AL Jan Piersol (Chair) SC Sonia Meredith (Chair) WV Mentors: The NAHRO Fellows

Sean Gilbert

Budget Committee Clifton Clark (Chair) WV BC member: Dannie Walker AL BC member: Gail Sansbury FL BC member: All Steering Comm Members Legislative Committee Mike Sweet (Chair) AL Policy Advisory Committee Thomas Rowe (Chair) TN PA member: Tina Akers-Brown NC PA member: Austin Simms KY PA member: Don Cameron SC PA member: Ailrick Young MS Nominating Committee Ailrick Young (Chair) MS NC member: Thomas Rowe SC NC member: Tina Akers-Brown NC NC member: Wanda Stevens-Ruckman VA NC member: Edwina Burnett SC Intern’l Research & Global Exchange Miguell Del Campillo (Chair) FL Site Selection Committee Thomas Rowe, Co-Chair TN Shannon Biggs, Co-Chair KY

MS TN NC

Annual Conference Committee 2016—Biloxi, MS Conference Chair Program Chairperson Exhibits Chairperson Registration Opening Ceremony Ushers Awards Ceremony Flag Ceremony Golf Tournament

Lisa Porter (Chair) VA Tom Wachs, Co-Chair AL Abraham Williams, Co-Chair KY Marilyn Medley TN TN Joyce Floyd

KY SC SC GA GA MS SC AL VA AL

Jeanette Henderson

Antonio Williams (Chair) Dannie Walker (Chair)

Mark Taylor

Becky Holmes

VP Housing’s Portfolio

Shaundra Clark

Housing Committee Rental Assistance Committee

VP CR&D’s Portfolio C R & D Committee

Ginger Ming (Chair) Sheryl Fortune (Chair)

Michael Wong

Brenda Willis (Chair)

AL AL SC MS NC VA

VP Professional Development’s Portfolio Cindy Preast Professional Development (Fall Workshop) Administrative Practice Education and Training

Buddy Oldfield (Chair) GA Douglas Freeman (Chair) Becky Hartman (Chair)

GA GA

VP Member Services’ Portfolio Anthony Goodson, Jr.

Public Affairs/SERCulator Member Services Scholarship Insurance-Housing Benefits Plan Retirement-HART

VP Commissioners’ Portfolio Commissioners

*Denotes chair person

Reta Thomas (Chair) GA Latonia Simmons (Chair) GA Madelyn Dotson, Co-Chair WV Johnny Black, Co-Chair VA Don Alexander TN Ed Johnston KY

Johnny Johnson

John Austin (Chair)

SERC COMMITTEE I ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Housing

Commissoners

Public Affairs

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE I ANNUAL CONFERENCE

AAHRA

Housing Professionals Servicing the State

ALABAMA l NEWS

A L A B A M A

OPP—Opp Housing Authority presents home buyer seminar Opp Housing Authority hosted a seminar on home-ownership in December for interested residents. A representative from the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Office explained the process of determining eligibility for home buying. The goal was to make sure that public housing residents knew the right path when trying to purchase a home. The seminar was well-attended by Opp Housing Authority residents.

Residents attend seminar on purchasing a home.

Alabama leads the way in youth development through basketball Inspired by the story of a young man whose life was changed by sports, four men came together to create a sports tournament for housing authority youth. It began in Alabama in 1993 and expanded to include the entire Southeastern Regional Conference. “When we first started this,” said Tom Wachs, executive director for Eufaula, Alabama’s housing authority, “we didn’t realize that some of these kids had never been out of their hometowns, to right: Abraham Williams–Bowling Green, KY, Tom Wachs–Eufaula, AL, attended a sit-down banquet, or Left Donald Belle–Mobile, AL, and David Meachem–Stateville, NC (retired). stayed in a hotel.” Basketball is the hook, but the real goal of the annual tournament is education. The weekend generally begins with an educational tour. Most recently, the teams toured the campus of Auburn University. Willie George Williams, coach of the Huntsville Warriors (Alabama) said the kids were “blown away” and called incorporating a college-campus tour into the weekend-long event a very positive move. “This whole weekend is about changing lives,” explained Wachs. “It’s about providing these kids with opportunities to do things they’ve never done before. Basketball is the vehicle we use to do that.” An occasion to dress up for a banquet, sit down to dinner and use manners is viewed by the coaches as a chance to model gentlemanly behavior. Devonte Moore of the Montgomery Heat (Alabama) explained, ”Some of us have never really had father figures…our coaches become those figures.” The dress code is shirt and tie, and the event sets the standard for the weekend’s behavior expectations. Honorable Eddie Lowe, mayor of Phenix City, Alabama spoke at the 2016 banquet. He told the youth, “Each one of you is meant to be a winner. Don’t ever let society condition you to be a loser.” The basketball tournament targets young men, so a leadership program was designed to target young ladies. The girls also serve as the cheering squads for their home teams. Conference sessions introduce the youth to topics like money management, public speaking, and citizenship. “These kids are destined for greatness,” Jadonna Johnson, housing services manager for Tifton, Georgia’s authority. “We see this in them when they come in,” she continued, “and before they leave, they see it in themselves.” Teams spend their free time visiting local attractions. The most recent group toured the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site and learned about the first black pilots in the United States military. Jakobi Graham, a player from the Alexander City Lakers (Alabama), says that the tournament weekend inspires him to greatness. For more than twenty years, with its focus on leadership, mentoring, citizenship and experience, the SERC Youth Development Program has been changing lives by inspiring young men and women to achieve success.

CCHRCO

CAROLINA l NEWS

Carolinas Council of Housing Redevelopment & Codes Officials

GOLDSBORO— First annual HACG Jobs Plus banquet held

CAROLINAS

The Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro (HACG) hosted its first annual Jobs Plus Awards Banquet on Thursday, December 15. HACG is one of only 24 PHAs in the country that has been awarded a Jobs Plus grant from HUD. Self-sufficiency and skill attainment are key, and the HACG staff wanted to recognize the efforts and accomplishments of its participants and employer partners. The banquet was a special night filled with awards, music, a keynote address, raffles, and fun for all attendees. Community partners, residents, staff, and local employers gathered to celebrate success. Each resident who completed all mandatory Jobs Plus classes received a certificate and a star-shaped trophy. Special awards of $25 gift cards donated were given by Pride in NC to these awardees for a job well done! The nine individuals who gained jobs since their enrollment in the program received certificates and $100 gift cards from HACG.

GREENSBORO— Hard-working GHA resident receives car from Wheels4Hope

Smith Homes resident Mavis Devorce is described as hard-working, dedicated and goaloriented by her Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) case manager Sabrina Abney, “Mavis is someone I call to find out all the good things in life,” says Abney, “Mavis is a positive thinker. Because of her hard work, Abney referred Devorce to Wheels4Hope with a recommendation that she be selected to receive one of the donated, refurbished cars offered by the non-profit agency. Wheels4Hope selected Devorce to be their 22nd recipient of a car in Greensboro this year. Wheels4Hope is a faith-based program that turns donated cars into local blessings. Since its inception in 2012, the agency has donated 144 cars to Greensboro families. She has used ride services and depended on family and friends to get to and from work, and anywhere else she needed to go. “I’m excited that I can pursue training and education now that I have a car,” states Devorce. “Having a car means everything.” Since receiving her car, Devorce has continued to excel and has graduated from GHA’s FSS program.

HICKORY—It takes a village and partnerships to make life work

Department. These officers worked tirelessly, seeking donations to try to bring a little happiness, if only for a few moments, to the children of this community. Toys and other items are wrapped by the little “Blue Elves” to help brighten a child’s spirit during one of “the most wonderful times of the year.” This year, the group added another partner; Target employees went the extra mile not only to provide special goodies for the children, but also by giving of their time to join us for our annual party to do crafts, share stories, and watch movies with the kids.

We’ve all heard the statement, “It takes a village to raise a child”…and most of us can’t help but wonder what that truly means. Does everyone have to take your child into their home and raise him/her with an endless array of rules, discipline and the like? No…but what it does mean is that in order for us to rear our young ones to be the best they can be, we have to set aside differences and look at the bigger picture. Here at the Hickory Public Housing Authority, we were able to see this first hand with our annual Christmas party, co-sponsored with one of our most devoted supporters, the Hickory Police

COLUMBIA—2016 summer youth programs

CHA program hires Youth

The CHA Summer Youth Employment Program began in June and employed approximately 20 rising high school seniors through July 29. The students worked in every department of the agency and participated in life skills training classes throughout their employment. Tours

of local universities gave students an idea of options available to them after graduation. “Being prepared for becoming an adult is the primary focus of this program,” said Gilbert Walker, executive director, “learning how to be a good employee, balance a checkbook, and plan for the future are all skills we know will benefit these young people later in life.”

Second annual CHA golf tournament

Columbia Housing Authority Developments, Inc. held its Second Annual CHAD Scholarship Golf Tournament in May, at the Cobblestone Park Golf Course. The tournament raises funds to support the Columbia Housing Authority’s Scholarship Program. Last June CHAD, in partnership with the Columbia Housing Authority, awarded academic scholarships to nine deserving high school seniors – all residents of public housing or Section 8 and accepted to fully-accredited institutions of higher education.

FLORIDA l NEWS DEFUNIAK SPRINGS—celebrates affordable housing month

F L O R I D A

During Affordable Housing Month in October, The Defuniak Springs Housing Authority Commissioner Christopher Mitchell and Executive Director Pamela Brewster, along with Mrs. Brewster’s husband and grandson, attended the Chautauqua Festival in Plains Georgia. Commissioner Mitchell previously worked for President Carter. The group was honored to attend two suppers with President and Mrs. Carter, and to meet Bill and Melinda Gates at one of the functions. They visited the housing authority of the City of Americus Georgia where President and Mrs. Carter lived when they first returned to Plains after they were married.

Left photo: Commissioner Christopher Mitchell. Above: Executive Director of The Defuniak Springs Housing Authority, Pamela Brewster.

The weekend ended with a Sunday school class taught by President Carter at Maranatha Baptist Church.

PINELLAS COUNTY—“Honor Flight” presentation at Magnolia Gardens Magnolia Gardens, an assisted living residence for seniors age 60 and older, hosted a special “Honor Flight” presentation on November 30, 2016. Founded in 2010, “Honor Flight” recognizes and rewards war-era veterans with an allexpenses-paid flight to the memorials in Washington, D.C., that are dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices. Mr. Mark Welsh, of Honor Flight West Central Florida, was the guest speaker on this exciting topic. Welsh has been a volunteer with Honor Flight Veterans gather at the Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial). since April 2012. He has flown on 14 missions: four as a guardian, and ten as a bus captain. guardian ad litem with the 6th Circuit Court of He has been a member of the speakers bureau Florida since 2007. since 2013, and is a member of the Honor Flight The public was invited to attend this special West Central Florida board of directors. Mark is presentation to learn how to assist with the Honor also on the board of directors for Enterprise High Flights and/or how to apply for an Honor Flight on School in Clearwater Florida, volunteers with USO behalf of a veteran. Central Florida, and has been a and has been a

GEORGIA l NEWS AUGUSTA—Breaks ground on senior-living community

G E O R G I A

The Augusta Housing Authority held a groundbreaking ceremony on November 17 for the Legacy at Walton Green. This community will offer 80 apartment homes designed exclusively for active adults, age 55+. The community will offer a blend of both market-rate and affordable housing programs in partnership with Walton Communities of Marietta, Georgia. The Legacy at Walton Green is a Breathe Easy community and is the first phase of a four phase redevelopment of the 30 acre former Cherry Tree Crossing public housing development. The project is funded through nine percent low income housing tax credits, replacement housing factor funds and demolition/disposition transitional funds. A development plan is currently underway for an additional 250 family units utilizing four percent LIHTCs. Mayor Hardie Davis, Jr. said, “So many great Augustans have grown up here in the inner city.” He praised the partnerships between the Augusta Housing Authority, Walton Communities and the city of Augusta that have made this new project possible. Dr. Rodger Murchison, board chairman of the Augusta Housing Authority said, “We are proudto be part of this redevelopment project.” Residents are expected to begin leasing the units in late 2017.

HADC—About our housing authority

In December 1955, the Housing Authority of DeKalb County (HADC) was established in accordance with state and federal law. The HADC operates a wide variety of programs that are designed to provide affordable housing solutions to DeKalb County residents, and to promote community and economic development. The HADC is a committed partner in the community’s effort to revitalize neighborhoods and foster economic development, as well as to provide quality, affordable housing. Although affordable housing is its primary mission, the authority knows that housing cannot function in an environment that is not viable, nor can those we serve reach their full potential if our community’s economic condition does not continue to improve. Programs and services administered by the authority include the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Program, veterans housing assistance, resident support services, and multi-family tax exempt bonds. In addition, the housing authority has established partnerships with local agencies and affiliates in order to provide support services to our residents and the DeKalb community at large.

NOTE: HADC was the 2016 recipient of the SERC extra large newsletter of the year.

Ashford Landing Apartments

KENTUCKY l NEWS KHA—2016 scholarship awards

K E N T U C K Y

Kentucky Housing Association scholarships are awarded to deserving high school seniors or college students living in public or assisted housing. The scholarship committee selected the following individuals to receive a scholarship award. Bra’Shyia Peyton received a one year scholarship totaling $2,500. This scholarship was being funded by Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Group, an insurance company for the authorities of the Kentucky Housing Association. Bra’Shyia is a resident of the Madisonville Housing Authority and a graduate of Madisonville-North Hopkins High School. She graduated with a cumulative GPA of 3.7. She currently attends University of Kentucky where she is pursuing a degree in nursing. Audreanna West received a four year scholarship totaling $3,000. This scholarship was sponsored by the Kentucky Housing Association. Audreanna is a resident of the Mayfield Housing Authority and a graduate of Graves County High School. She graduated with a cumulative GPA of 3.6. She attends Freed-Hardeman University. Krista Mills received a four year scholarship totaling $3,000. This scholarship was sponsored by the Kentucky Housing Association. Krista has been a resident of the Newport Housing Authority for 18 years. She graduated from Newport High School with a cumulative GPA of 4.43 and was ranked third in her class She is now enrolled at the University of Louisville. Jessica Watkins received a four year scholarship totaling $3,000. This scholarship was sponsored by the Kentucky Housing Association. Jessica is a resident of the Irvine Housing Authority and a graduate of Estill County High School. Jessica graduated with a cumulative GPA of 4.0. She achieved this milestone despite the fact that she has worked outside the home since she was 15 years old, often helping to support her family. Jessica is enrolled at Eastern Kentucky University, where she plans to major in special education. Destiny Paige Manns received the John Crabb Memorial Scholarship totaling $20,000. The John Crabb Memorial Scholarship is a four-year scholarship given in memory of John Crabb, former maintenance director of the Housing Authority of Newport, KY, who dedicated his life to providing safe and affordable housing for low-income families. Destiny is a resident of the Salyersville-Magoffin County Joint Housing Authority. She graduated from Magoffin County High School with a cumulative GPA of 4.0. She attends the University of Pikeville.

Top left clockwise: Bra’Shyia Peyton, Audreanna West, Krista Mills, Jessica Watkins and Destiny Paige Manns.

HOPKINSVILLE—Camp Hope 2016

There is no better way to spend the summer than with our youth! We are so thankful to parents for allowing their children to attend our free, six-week summer camp. It was truly an amazing experience to watch the campers build self-confidence. We went on some exciting field trips such as Russell Sims Aquatic Park; WK Cinemas where we saw “Finding Dory” & “Secret Life of Pets;” First Frame Bowling; Kentucky Down Under- where we got to roam with kangaroos; and Tie Breaker Aquatic Park. Our fun did not end there! We were blessed to attend VBS at Henderson Memorial Baptist Church. We hosted the Hopkinsville Police Department for “Cookout with the Cops;” and ended the camp session with a BBQ & car wash fundraiser.

Facts indicate that about 70% of inner city youth across America cannot swim. This is why the Housing Authority of Hopkinsville and Hopkinsville Family YMCA were committed to making sure that all children in our community learn to swim and have the necessary skills to be safe in and around water. The Learn to Swim Camp provided water safety knowledge and taught skills that help save lives. Of 65 students participated in the camp with 30 participants passing the YMCA swim at the end of camp.

MISSISSIPPI l NEWS COLUMBUS— Thanksgiving 2016 Annually, volunteers from the Columbus School District, local law enforcement, fire department, elected officials, civic organizations, churches, businesses, banks, and other organizations join Columbus-Lowndes Recreation Authority to plan and prepare a Thanksgiving feast for local residents. The groups worked together last November to solicit and collect donations that allowed them to purchase the food-items needed to prepare hot Thanksgiving meals. The volunteers then delivered the meals to elderly, disabled or needy residents throughout the community.

Bank encourages home ownership for residents

Bancorp South workshop at Starkville Housing Authority.

STARKVILLE— Residents share Thanksgiving dinner Starkville Housing Authority (SHA) residents received a special treat when SHA held its first Tenant Thanksgiving Breakfast. Residents from all five communities were invited to share a full course breakfast free of charge. The SHA staff, resident council, and other tenants volunteered to serve the residents of the housing authority. Jennifer Robertson and Brenda Anderson prepared the food. Donations were given by Vowell’s Grocery and Shipley Donuts.

In the past, the housing authority has provided a Thanksgiving dinner for elderly and disabled residents. With breakfast being the most important meal of the day, Executive Director Amy Bishop decided to switch things up and host a breakfast instead. Approximately 25 residents attended and door prizes were given. SHA looks forward to making the breakfast an annual event.

MIS-

Bancorp South workshop at Columbus Housing Authority.

Bancorp South provided a workshopfor residents of the Starkville Housing Authority. The program called Right At Home was held at the housing authority’s Literacy Center, and was designed to help low to moderate income families identify the steps necessary to buy their own home. The workshop covered all the details of the home ownership program and tips on how to repair one’s credit, as well as tips on how to save money. Bancorp South also provided Columbus Housing Authority with a workshop for residents.

TENNESSEE l NEWS

TENNESSEE

McMINNVILLE— Hamilton residents celebrate the holidays

The Hamilton Street Resident Activity Center of the McMinnville Housing Authority had a Thanksgiving dinner and program for 55 children. Lisa Harvey organized the event which included turkey with all the trimmings. At the program, Mayor Jimmy Haley spoke at the Thanksgiving dinner and Father John Melcher offered the blessing prior to the meal. The children also worked hard on the Christmas program which is their biggest fund raiser. The special program was presented at the downtown Park Theater on December 22.

JCHA— Health fair for seniors at JCHA Twice a year, the Johnson City Housing Authority hosts a health fair for the senior adults of the community. This event serves an important role in promoting wellness among JCHA residents and connecting them to the many beneficial services available. The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” has never been truer. Making strides toward a healthy lifestyle helps residents improve their quality of life and serve as positive role models in their community. The Fall Health Fair was held in October at the Keystone Community Recreation Center. At the event, informational booths were set up by area agencies including the Johnson City Community Health Center, JCCHC/JCHA Partners for Health Medical Clinic, Salvation Army, First Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability, ETSU College of Pharmacy, Johnson City Health Department, Keystone Dental, Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union, Health Resource Center, Aid and Assist at Home, and the JCHA Department of Pest Control. Residents also enjoyed a healthy lunch, door prizes, and participated in a scavenger hunt which led them to meet with representatives from each booth. Thank you to the JCHA Department of Residents Services and their tireless efforts to serve the tenants of JCHA!

VIRGINIA l NEWS DUFFIELD—

New playground

V I R G I N I A

Through a partnership with Appalachian Community Action Agency, a new playground was officially unveiled for the residents of Whippoorwill Hills Housing Development in Duffield Virginia. The playground was made possible through two grants that the agencies received. The Uniting in Play grant comes through the United Way of Southwest Virginia. A second grant, the Points of Light grant, helped offset expenses and allowed for a larger playground structure. The playground was built by over 40 volunteers from the community, with the oversight of

a playground consultant. Many businesses and residents - including several veterans - came out to help with this project.

BRISTOL—BRHA helps residents find a way to own a home

Find A Way, operated by BRHA since 2006, is a voluntary, self-sufficiency program designed to help families and individuals become independent. As participants increase their skill sets and earn additional income they may find that their higher wages result in a rent increase. Find A Way allows participating residents to deposit the difference between the old and new rent payments into an escrow account. When participants graduate from the program, the money from the escrow account may be used to purchase a home or vehicle, or toward additional education. Donna Boardwine is an example of the Finda-Way success story. She used her escrow money to purchase a home where she enjoys spending time with her granddaughter. She credits the program for her success. Donna’s journey through the program, which leads participating BRHA residents through a step-by-step process to self-sufficiency, began eight years ago, when she found a Find A Way flier in her mailbox. Thinking it was a flier promoting a job opening, she investigated and learned the program afforded opportunities well beyond just a possible occupation. With her new home, Donna is looking forward to beginning some remodeling projects on her new home soon. The program is open to all BRHA residents. It’s about changing lives by helping residents reach self-sufficiency and build successful futures. Donna is proof that the program works in helping BRHA residents find a way!

WEST VIRGINIA l NEWS CHARLESTON/KANAWA—

Manager provides snacks to school children

WEST VIRGINIA

Dawn Fujita has been the manager at Little Page Terrace for more than a year now. Dawn is energetic, and she quickly learned to manage the site of both public housing units and tax credit units. Little Page has been a troubled site and has a history of being difficult to manage. The housing authority is presently redeveloping this site with new LIHTC units. In the past, it was plagued with drugs, crime and shootings, but the area is progressing quickly toward less criminal activity and being a more positive, family-friendly area. During her year there, Dawn has come to know the tenants and their children. While chatting with the kids during a school break, she gave them candy. Every day after that, they would come to visit her, and she would give them whatever she had, including what was in her own lunch. In the beginning they would throw the wrappers on the ground, and she would have to clean up after them. She began to talk with them about cleaning up and having pride in where they lived. At first they picked up only to get candy, now they do it because it is the right thing to do. When school resumed, Dawn just happened to be outside her office when the bus stopped; off came the neighborhood kids, and they were hungry! As the mother of two boys, she remembered that kids are always hungry when they get home from school. At that moment, she decided that she would do her best to make sure every child got a snack each day when they got off that bus. Initially she used her own resources. She spoke to her director about the need for kid-friendly snacks, and now she receives donations from other staff members. Dawn and her husband own a Japanese restaurant in town, Fuji’s, where she has placed a “Little Page snacks” donation jar, so their patrons can contribute. Now she is able to give double snacks on Fridays so the kids will have something extra to eat on the weekends. She meets the bus daily, and the kids are happy to see her. She greets them with a snack and with love.

HUNINGTON— Annual senior fun day The Huntington Housing Authority held its annual Senior Fun Day on October 28. The theme for this year’s event was “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dreams.” Nearly 100 residents attended. Representatives from local agencies such as Southwestern Community Action Council, Cabell County Community Service Organization, and Cabell Huntington Hospital set up information tables and administered flu shots. Ricky G. Fox gave a wonderful performance of 1950’s music and even had several residents up dancing. Door prizes (donated by local businesses) were given to everyone there. Both the senior residents and staff members enjoyed the plethora of food, which included hot dogs and hamburgers, potato salad, slaw, green beans and desserts. Everyone had a great time and is looking forward to next year’s event.

Dawn Fujita, manager at Little Page Terrace, hands out snacks to children after school.

2 016 l SERC Fall Workshop Ashe v ille

Solutions that work

the highest quality training for 2017. It takes time and resources to stay abreast of an everchanging industry that is tasked with providing safe housing in our communities.

It was indeed a treat for SERC to hold its 2016 fall workshop at the Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC. Situated in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with its perfectly beautiful mountain views, it was the place to be as we pursued our theme of “Solutions That Work!” The Omni Grove Park Inn has been serving guests for over 102 years, providing service laced with “southern hospitality” and breathtaking views that automatically lower stress levels.

Cindy Preast, vice president for professional development, presided over the opening general session. Lisa Porter, deputy director of the Marion Housing Authority (VA), gave the invocation, followed by Burnetta Smith, senior vice president of the Carolina Council, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.

SERC officers and executive committee members gathered for committee meetings prior to the conference to explore, strategize and prepare to provide

Asheville Housing Authority’s CEO Gene Bell introduced the mayor of Asheville, the Honorable Esther E. Manheimer. Donna Lamer, president of the Carolina Council, welcomed everyone to North Carolina. continued on next page.

MAHRO President Dave Baldwin welcomes members to the conference.

201 6 l SERC Fall Workshop Opening Session Newsletter of the year awards were presented by Reta Thomas, chairperson SERC public affairs/SERCulator, along with committee members Ella Murphy and Madelyn Peavy. Awards citing journalist excellency were given to small, medium, large and extra-large housing agencies. SERC President Dave Baldwin and Chairperson for Professional Development Harden A. Oldfield, III delivered remarks and provided general conference information. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Read 2 Succeedâ&#x20AC;? organization in Asheville was chosen as the recipient of the SERC Cares Initiative and they provided an overview during this session. The program is aimed at increasing the number of children who are reading proficiently by the end of the third grade. To find out more about the agency and how to contribute, visit the website at: www.r2asheville. org/serc-caresinitiative.html. continued on next page

2 016 l SERC Fall Workshop S e s s ions Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training topics included HCV Task and Program Updates; Commissioner Policies and Practices; Affordable Housing Finance and Development Boot Camp; and Drug Awareness. Sessions available all day were HUD Hot Topics in Accounting and Funding; Streamlining Rules; Small PHAsBig Difference; and other current issues in public housing. Small PHAs-Big Difference was a very popular session because so many small housing agencies have unique needs as opposed to the larger agencies. continued on next page

2 01 6 l SERC Fall Workshop Reception On Tuesday, John Bohm, CEO of NAHRO, presented the legislative update. Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training sessions continued in addition to new topics being introduced, such as the HUD VASH program, pest control issues, and how agencies are addressing reading levels to promote success in school and life.

continued on next page 23 continued on next page

2 016 l SERC Fall Workshop Dinner

2 01 6 l SERC Fall Workshop D inner The banquet on Monday night featured Michael Hulett, a jazz and contemporary musician. Michael recently appeared in Las Vegas and Palm Desert, CA. THANK YOU to all the committee members who worked tirelessly to provide a successful workshop! We would also like to sincerely thank our sponsors and contributors for having caring, giving hearts and for lending their helping hands. n

LEGISLATIVE l Update

A new day The historic 2016 elections are over. Mr. Donald Trump is the President-Elect, and the Republicans retained majority control in both the House of Representatives and Senate. With one vacancy on the Supreme Court, and probably more to come, Republican appointments will most likely continue to hold sway over Mike Sweet the Judicial Branch. Without a doubt, it is a new day, and I do not believe that business at the Department of Housing and Urban Development will be “as usual.” So what can we make of all this? Part of President Trump’s campaign platform focused on his outsider status - a business man, not a politician. Sticking with this theme, he named Dr. Ben Carson as his nominee for HUD Secretary. From a regulatory standpoint, I believe this may end up being a good development. Over the past decade, I have often argued with colleagues that much of HUD’s policy does not make good business sense, only to have my arguments countered that our industry can make no headway with common sense reform because of politics. Now I believe that we may begin to see policy steered away from the social engineering that, in my opinion, has permeated much of the cur-

rent HUD administration, and towards economic and efficient housing operations. From an appropriations standpoint, I do not think we will see any improvement and will likely see further erosion of our funding. If you would like a forecast of the changes that I believe are on the way, I suggest that you read Speaker of the House Paul Ryan’s “A Better Way/Our Vision for a Confident America” poverty plan (https://abetterway.speaker.gov/_assets/pdf/ABetterWay-PovertyPolicyPaper.pdf). The document is short at 35 pages and only briefly mentions public housing programs on page 12. However, I believe you will come away with a flavor of things to come. If I could sum up the overriding message of this document in one sentence it would be that able bodied welfare recipients will be expected to work. Recently, I met with the congressman representing our district, Mr. Bradley Byrne. Congressman Byrne has been a big advocate for “A Better Way” and I took the opportunity to discuss it with him. I informed him that our industry wants a seat at the bargaining table if and when Speaker Ryan’s vision becomes a reality. I encourage you make the same clear to your congressional representatives. As always, please keep up your advocacy efforts. Alerts are posted at the NAHRO Advocacy Action Center (http://www.nahro.org/nahro-advocacy) and are a very easy way for you to be involved. Moving forward, I believe our philosophy must be “Carpe Diem” (seize the day).

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Bet you didn’t know: Valentine’s Each year on February 14th, many people exchange cards, candy, gifts or flowers with their special “valentine.” In fact, Americans are expected to spend about $20-billion dollars on the holiday this year, with over 62% giving cards, candy, flowers and romantic dinners as gifts to those they love. So, how did this holiday become associated with love and romance? Valentine’s Day is named for a Christian martyr, but it dates back to the 5th century with its origins in the Roman fertility festival called Lupercalia. Later, the Christian church chose mid-February for honoring St. Valentine. Not much is known about the holiday’s namesake. For example there was more than one cleric named Valentine. One was sentenced to death for performing marriages in secret after young roman males were banned from marriage by the emperor. In the 15th century, the first written Valentine’s Day greetings were sent; by the 17th century, Great Britain was celebrating February 14th as a day of love. It soon caught on in the United

day

States, and in the 1840’s the first mass-produced Valentine’s Day cards were sold. Valentine’s Day soon exploded into a major consumer-holiday! Over $1-Billion is expected to be spent this year on cards; approximately 35-million heart –shaped boxed of chocolates will be sold, and 220-million roses will be produced for the holiday. Many people will give jewelry and share long, romantic dinners. It is estimated that six-million couples will become engaged on Valentine’s Day this year, continuing the long, romantic history that you probably didn’t know.

SERC-NAHRO Executive Committee Meeting March 10th ~ 11th

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Destin, Florida

The SERC-NAHRO Scholarship Committee will be hosting a large fund raising event at our 2017 Annual Conference in Nashville, TN. The funds will go 100 percent to the SERCNAHRO Scholarship Fund. This fund provides scholarships for residents of assisted housing programs in the 10 Southeastern States that participate in SERC:

Help SERC make this Auction a Success!

Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. The event, a silent auction, will take place at the Opryland Hotel and Resort on Tuesday, June 27. Our SERC Annual Conference is expected to draw over 500 members who work with affordable housing agencies. We hope you will be there to exhibit your products and/or services to these members!! Can you help us with a donation of a gift basket or special item that we may include in our auction? Your donation can be something as simple as a gift card, or as elaborate as use of a vacation home! Anything you can provide to benefit the scholarship fund would be greatly appreciated!!!

If you will provide an item, please contact Madelyn Dotson at mdotson@southcharlestonhousing.org or call 304-768-9315 x202. to let her know what you are willing to donate. We would like to advertise the items well before the event, via email and paper mail. Credit for the donated item will be given to your business/organization/group. Thank you for your consideration of our request to help low-income students achieve their academic and personal goals through education!!

What Home Means to Me As part of NAHRO’s Housing America campaign, a poster contest is held each year for children living in affordable housing owned or administered by NAHRO member agencies. Posters reflect the national theme “What Home Means to Me.” The contest is a collaborative effort of NAHRO’s local and state chapters, regional chapters and the national organization. Each state will select three winners and send to the regional council and SERC will judge them at the SERC Annual Conference in Nashville June 25-27. The regional winners will be forward for the national poster contest competition. For additional details visit www.nahro.org under the Housing America tab. Calendars are available for $7 which includes shipping charges.

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NEWSLETTER AWARDS

PHAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Newsletter Winners for 2016 Small PHA Newsletter Winner Franklin Housing Authority The Porchlight

Goldboro Housing Authority The Community Connect

McMinnville Housing Authority Neighborhood News

X-Large PHA Newsletter Winner

Housing Authority of Dekalb County Focus Magazine

RECOGNTIONS

Large PHA Newsletter Winner

Medium PHA Newsletter Winner

HUD l Update

HUD ANNOUNCES $10 MILLION IN “SWEAT EQUITY” GRANTS (Reprinted from press release on HUD website with tense revisions)

The former secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Julián Castro recently awarded $10 million in “sweat equity” grants to four non-profit self-help housing organizations through HUD’s Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP). This funding will create at least 539 affordable homes and significantly lower their purchase price for low-income buyers, who will contribute their own labor toward the construction or rehabilitation of these units. “Our SHOP grants help advance a fundamental ideal: that every American deserves the chance to build a brighter future by combining opportunity with their own hard work,” said then Secretary Castro. “We’re proud to help hundreds of families secure an enduring cornerstone of the American Dream.” The following organizations will receive SHOP funds:

Organization Grant Amount Community Frameworks $1,676,280 Habitat for Humanity International $5,898,895 Housing Assistance Council $1,145,625 Tierra del Sol (Western States Housing Consortium) $1,279,200 Total $10,000,000 The SHOP program provides federal grants on a competitive basis to national and regional non-profit organizations and consortia that have experience in administering self-help homeownership housing programs. Many SHOP homebuyers are first-time homeowners and come from underserved communities. Homebuyers will provide significant sweat equity toward the development of their units and/or the units of other homebuyers. Sweat equity and volunteer labor may include, but are not limited to, landscaping, foundation work, painting, carpentry, trim work, and installing drywall, roofing or siding. A minimum of 50 sweat equity hours is required from a household of one person, while a minimum of 100 hours is required from a household of two or more. Community participation consisting of volunteer labor contributions is also PEOPLE - PURPOSE - PASSION required, and reasonable accommodations Candidate for Senior Vice President must be made for persons with disabilities. Grantees may carry out activities directly and/or distribute SHOP funds to local non-profit affiliates that will develop the SHOP units, seNAHRO Experience: Board lect homebuyers, coordinate the homebuyer of Governors, Professional sweat equity and volunteer efforts, and assist Development Committee, in the arrangement of interim and permaLegislative Network, Housing & nent financing for the homebuyers. Grantees Education Task Force, Housing ensure that new homebuyers can afford their America Task Force, PNRC homes at the time of purchase and for the President, Regional Sr. VP, long term. Sunny Shaw SHOP grants must be used toCandidate for Senior Vice President purchase land Regional VP with Portfolio, Idaho State Chapter President, PEOPLE- PURPOSE- PASSION and make necessary infrastructure improveIdaho State Chapter Sr. VP, Regional Commissioners NAHRO Experience: Board of Governors, Professional ments, which together may not exceed an Development Committee, Legislative Network, Housing & Trainer Education Task Force, Housing America Task Force, PNRC average SHOP investment of $15,000 per President, Regional Sr. VP, Regional VP with Portfolio, Idaho State Chapter President, Idaho State Chapter Sr. VP, dwelling unit. Leveraged funds must be used Regional Commissioners Trainer for the construction or rehabilitation of these “Having a lasting impact is one of the challenges all leaders “Having a lasting impact is one of the challenges all homeownership units. All struggle with. We all want to make a difference but Sunny has a newly constructed unique way of giving selflessly with the mission of helping leaders struggle with. We all want to make a difference units will receive certification as ENERGY STAR others as a true goal. She has a leadership style that supports others, giving them the opportunity to grow. Her strength is to but Sunny has a unique way of giving selflessly with qualified units. All appliances, products or bring people, organizations, communities and gifts to the same features that are installedtable, to work together for a common purpose. She connects or replaced will be the mission of helping others as a true goal. She has a people, passion, tools, and strengths to better us all as we ENERGY STAR qualified. Water usage products strive to change lives for the better.” leadership style that supports others, giving them the will bear the WaterSense DeeAnna Peterson label. Many units will NAHRO B&A Chair opportunity to grow. Her strength is to bring people, also have “Green,” “Healthy Homes,” and organizations, communities and gifts to the same table, “Universal Design” features. to work together for a common purpose. She connects Since 1996, when Congress first appropriated SHOP funds, the SHOP program has propeople, passion, tools and strengths to better us all as we vided more than $396 million in federal grants strive to change lives for the better.” that, together with significant leveraged funds DeeAnna Peterson and numerous volunteer hours, are transformNAHRO B&A Chair ing lives and neighborhoods through the production of more than 28,500 units of affordable housing.

Sunny Shaw

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SERC EVENTS I Around the region 2017 SERCulator Deadlines Spring...................... April 1

What’s on the agenda around SERC FEBRUARY 2017

Winter Workshop— February 12 to 14 Embassy Suites (Downtown) – Charleston February 12, Board Meeting at 2:00 p.m. MAHRO Maintenance Workshop—February 22-24 Gold Strike Resort and Casino Tunica, MS

MARCH 2017

SERC Committee Meeting—March 10-11 Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Destin, FL Washington Conference—March 26-28 Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel, Arlington, Virginia.

APRIL 2017

TAHRA Spring Workshop—April 10-12 Franklin Marriot Cool Springs, TN KHA Maintenance Workshop—April 10-13 Holiday Inn Bowling Green Bowling Green, KY

AAHRA Spring Workshop—Apr 17-19 Hyatt Regency-Wynfrey Birmington, AL MAHRO Commissioner’s Conference—April 23-25 Montgomery Renaissance Hotel Montgomery, AL

JUNE 2017

SERC-NAHRO Annual Conference—June 25-27 Gaylord Opryland Convention Center Nashville, TN

Summer............... June 25 Fall............... September 1 Winter........December 23

SERCulator Newsletter Copies Each SERC member receives one FREE copy of the SERCulator. Additional copies: $7.50 each Discounted yearly rate: $25.00 subscription Please complete and return the subscription form on page 34 of this issue of the SERCulator!

Archive issues for 2016 also available.