The NYCHA Journal

The NYCHA Journal has informed and inspired residents since 1970, covering the news, contributions, and uplifting stories of the NYCHA community while providing the latest information on Authority initiatives.

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Playing with PALs

LaToya

A new court at Frederick Samuel Houses will see plenty of action this summer

A new court at Frederick Samuel Houses will see plenty of action this summer

It was close, but the Kids beat the Cops. On June 7, youth from the Frederick E. Samuel Community Center’s basketball team beat NYPD officers 62-52 at the first basketball game held in the center’s newly renovated gymnasium. Earlier, City officials and community members cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the doors to the center’s new gym, which now features a new scoreboard and refinished floors. The gym was renovated with money from drug trafficking proceeds seized during criminal prosecutions – including cases that happened near Frederick Samuel Houses – by New York City’s Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor.

“It is a pleasure to use the proceeds of drug crimes to purchase new athletic equipment for the young people of Frederick E. Samuel Houses and to support fun recreational opportunities,” Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget G. Brennan said. “We are happy to help create better spaces for young people to thrive. We look forward to participating in many future programs that benefit the youth of New York City with the Police Athletic League and all of our partner agencies.”

Joining Brennan at the ribbon-cutting were NYCHA’s Vice President for Public Safety Gerald Nelson; Frederick J. Watts, Executive Director of New York City’s Police Athletic League; Reverend Calvin Butts, Pastor of the Abyssinian Baptist Church; Elijah Brooks, Director of the Frederick E. Samuel Community Center; NYPD officers from the 32nd Precinct and Police Service Area 6; and more.

“This new gymnasium is a powerful example of how collaboration between NYCHA and law enforcement is making neighborhoods safer and more connected,” said Gerald Nelson, NYCHA’s Vice President for Public Safety. “With this major investment, ill-gotten gains have been repurposed for the good of the community. This vibrant public space – an invaluable resource for residents, just in time for summer – will bring people together, encourage positivity, and strengthen the community.”

The gym may also encourage a little healthy competition: Who will win the rematch at the center’s next Kids versus Cops match?