Weekly Credit Series: What's in Your Report?

"What’s in your credit report?Although each credit reporting agency formats and reports this information differently, all credit reports contain basically the same categories of information. Your social security number, date of birth and employment information are used to identify you. These factors are not used in credit scoring. Updates to this information come from information you supply to lenders.


Identifying Information.

Your name, address, Social Security number, date of birth and employment information are used to identify you. These factors are not used in credit scoring. Updates to this information come from information you supply to lenders.

Trade Lines.

These are your credit accounts. Lenders report on each account you have established with them. They report the type of account (bankcard, auto loan, mortgage, etc), the date you opened the account, your credit limit or loan amount, the account balance and your payment history.

Credit Inquiries.

When you apply for a loan, you authorize your lender to ask for a copy of your credit report. This is how inquiries appear on your credit report. The inquiries section contains a list of everyone who accessed your credit report within the last two years. The report you see lists both "voluntary" inquiries, spurred by your own requests for credit, and "involuntary" inquires, such as when lenders order your report so as to make you a pre-approved credit offer in the mail.

Public Record and Collection Items.

Credit reporting agencies also collect public record information from state and county courts, and information on overdue debt from collection agencies. Public record information includes bankruptcies, foreclosures, suits, wage attachments, liens and judgments."

Information taken from http://www.myfico.com/

Want to live in one of the top 10 neighborhoods in the nation?

You can, in one of Jacksonville's very own neighborhoods!

In case you haven't heard, the historic neighborhood of Riverside and Avondale was named one of the top ten neighborhoods to live in  2010 by the APA (American Planning Association) and is the first neighborhood in Florida to win this honor!

Needless to say everyone in this neighborhood is very honored. We at the Riverside Avondale Development Organization are also  very privileged to  take part in the upkeep of this prestigious title.

RADO has provided over 20 affordable homes in the Riverside neighborhood.  These homes have either been masterfully renovated to their original grandeur or are historically-accurate, newly built homes. The new construction homes we provide offer historic exterior features, with modern day amenities in the interior.We are honored to say that once built, one would think that one of our new homes was one of our renovations!

RADO is very determined to keep the overall livability of the neighborhood first rate. We are dedicated to reinforcing historic preservation , creating and preserving attainable quality housing for low to moderate income families, increasing public safety,  and much more. We understand and appreciate how enjoyable and diverse this neighborhood is and how out of reach it may be for some families. We feel that everyone should have a chance at owning their own home in the neighborhood they desire.

For the past year we have been working under the city's Neighborhood Stabilization Program which allowed us to branch out beyond Riverside, but starting in 2011 we will go back to our roots and once again be  able build and renovate in the historic neighborhoods of Riverside and Murray Hill.

If you have any questions about how to purchase a home through us please e-mail Melody or call us at 904.381.0950.

Free seminar! Come learn how to receive up to 40k towards your home.

This free event will be on November 15 at 6:00 pm. at the RADO office (881 Stockton St 32204)


Those who come to this event will learn about the many assistance programs that are available to homeowners. We will be spending most of our time learning about the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. This is a city launched program where eligible buyers can receive up to $40,000 in assistance towards the purchase of their new home.

We will have food, fun and door prizes!! Please call for more information 904.381.0950. or msbyrd@radocdc.org

An RSVP is requested but not required :)

When : November 15, 2010
Time: 6:00 pm
Where: 881 Stockton Street
Who: You!!!


The Riverside Avondale Development Organization is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization who specializes in quality, affordable housing.

Play Golf for $5!!! Serioulsy ?

Yup! That's right. The Riverside Avondale Development Organization is hosting our first Golf Tournament. It costs $55 per player or $200 per foursome but, every person who signs up will receive a $50 gift card to an online golf store! That makes a $5 entrance fee.

There are plenty of other incentives as well. The fee includes a hamburger buffet, a free golf club, an awards reception and a chance to win a Mustang Convertible from Duval Ford.

The best part about our event is that 100% of the proceeds will go towards RADO's many community outreach programs. This includes rentals for seminar venues, awards, materials for cleanups etc.

Here are the details...

When: October 5th
Registration Time: 8:00am
Tee Time: 9:00am
Where: Bent Creek Golf Club
How to sign up? Call 381.0950 or sign on to http://www.radogolf.com
Cost: $55 per person $200 per foursome

Incentives to put in NEW Cooling and Heating Systems!

There is a recently announced Florida HVAC $1,500 rebate.

As of August 30, 2010 until December 30, 2010 (OR until the $15 million runs out which will be VERY quick – few expect it to last beyond October), you could get up to $3,000 for installing a new HVAC system. The new $1,500 rebate from the "Florida Energy Star Residential HVAC Rebate Program" (http://www.rebates.com/floridahvac/) is in addition to the already offered $1,500 federal tax credit when existing primary household homeowners replace their old heating and cooling system with a properly-sized energy efficient system and ensure that your duct system has minimal leakage.

This is a performance-based rebate which means it requires two tests after the HVAC installation and some documentation to meet its criteria. The two tests are: "Manual J" calculations and "CFM25 Air Distribution System Leakage" (aka "duct blaster" test) which required trained professionals, like a Florida Class 1 energy rater. Make sure to review the full list of requirements to qualify for the rebate at: http://www.rebates.com/floridahvac/.

If you want to use and support Florida Class 1 energy raters who are USGBC North Florida Chapter members or at a minimum are geographically in your Chapter’s region (keep it local), please see the list below. Current Chapter members are highlighted in GREEN, of course! For a full Florida list of qualified Class 1 energy raters, visit the following link:

http://securedb.fsec.ucf.edu/engauge/search_rater?state=&county=duval&class=R1&l_name=&zip=&rater_type=all

Certified Raters In USGBC North Florida Region
(11 counties in NE Florida)

Aouil, BassamIdeal Tech Limited IncCLASS: R1
Email: baouil@yahoo.comBusiness: 904/910-0092Fax:
3211 Glendyne Dr EJacksonville FL 32216County: Duval

Armel IV, William HArmel EnterprisesCLASS: R1
Email: warmeliv@hotmail.comBusiness: 386/538-1840Fax:
2835 Hilsdale Harbor WayJacksonville FL 32216County: Duval

Atkinson, David EPro Home Energy Audits LLCCLASS: R1
Email: prohomeenergyaudits@gmail.comBusiness: 904/757-7666Fax:
1218 Eagle Bend CtJacksonville FL 32226County: Duval

Beane, Ruen MCLASS: R1
Email: ruen.beane@gmail.comBusiness: 386/538-6288Fax: 866/234-6101
PO Box 1155St Augustine FL 32805-1155County: Alachua

Boggs, Donald AGreen Building DesignCLASS: R1
Email: donboggs@bellsouth.netBusiness: 904/389-3062Fax: 904/389-3064
3564 St Johns AveJacksonville FL 32205County: Duval

Bolden, Rondra DISTA North AmericaCLASS: R1
Email: rbolden@ISTA-na.comBusiness: 904/333-3571Fax: 904/807-3588
13925 Wild Hammock TrJacksonville FL 32226County: Duval

Conway, Wallace JHomePro InspectionsCLASS: R1
Email: wally@gohomepro.comBusiness: 904/268-8211Fax: 904/268-8213
2950 Halcyon LnJacksonville FL 32223County: Duval

Copeland, DanHome Energy ServicesCLASS: R1
Email: dancopeland@homebuildingstore.comBusiness: 904-327-0981Fax:
2080 Davis RdJacksonville FL 32218County: Duval

Crossley, Steven FEEM ConsultingCLASS: R1
Email: scrossley@genesisinsulation.comBusiness: 904/312-2906Fax:
12602 Old St Augustine RdJacksonville FL 32258County: Duval

De Werth, HenryUSA HERSCLASS: R1
Email: henry@usahers.comBusiness: 904/233-7299 cellFax: 904/471-7625
888 Ocean Palm WaySt Augustine FL 32080County: Flagler

Dolley, RoyCLASS: R1
Email: redolley@aol.comBusiness: 407/927-0263Fax:
12292 Raintree Lake CtJacksonville FL 32246County: Duval

Doueck, BruceJEACLASS: R1
Email: douenb@jea.comBusiness: 904/665-6231Fax: 904/665-7386
21 W Church StJacksonville FL 32202County: Duval

Dutta, SamratSkyeTecCLASS: R1
Email: sdutta@skyetec.comBusiness: 904/755-6108Fax: 904/482-4299
9570 Regency Sq Blvd, Ste 410Jacksonville FL 32225County: Duval

Ferrentino, Frank ASkyeTecCLASS: R1
Email: fferrentino@SkyeTec.comBusiness: 904-482-4272Fax:
9570 Regency Square Blvd Ste 410Jacksonville FL 32225County: Duval

Hawkins, Ronald AHome Energy ServicesCLASS: R1
Email: jimwilliams@homebuildingstore.comBusiness: 904/226-2251Fax: 904/757-7104
2080 Davis RdJacksonville FL 32218County: Duval

Howard, Joshua SAir to Air IncCLASS: R1
Email: airtoair4@bellsouth.netBusiness: 904/262-4279Fax: 904/262-0772
11578 Davis Creek CtJacksonville FL 32256County: Duval

Mago, WilliamairEnalasysCLASS: R1
Email: bmago@airenalasys.comBusiness: 877/437-7728Fax:
10668 Quail Ridge DrPonte Vedra FL 32081County: Duval

Mc Cracken, Ryan DSkyeTecCLASS: R1
Email: rmccracken@skyetec.comBusiness: 813/317-3010Fax: 904/482-4299
9570 Regency Sq Blvd, Ste 410Jacksonville FL 32225County: Duval

O'Donoughue, Michael SJacksonville Building Science LLCCLASS: R1
Email: mod@jaxbuildingscience.comBusiness: 904/807-3540Fax: 866/678-6204
450-106 SR 13N, Ste 132St Johns FL 32259-3863County: Duval

Pippin, Brian CJEACLASS: R1
Email: pippbc@jea.comBusiness: 904/665-7051Fax: 94/665-7386
21 W Church StJacksonville FL 32202County: Duval

Reed, David MJEACLASS: R1
Email: reeddm@jea.comBusiness: 904/294-0692Fax: 904/665-7386
10541 Anders BlvdJacksonville FL 32246County: Duval

Velez, Luis GSkyeTecCLASS: R1
Email: lvelez@skyetec.comBusiness: 904/662-3285Fax:
9570 Regency Sq Blvd, Ste 410Jacksonville FL 32225County: Duval

White, Sharon FNatureTek, IncCLASS: R1
Email: naturetekinc@gmail.comBusiness: 904/718/7518Fax: 904/239-3073
101 Century 21 Dr, #106jacksonville FL 32216County: Duval

Williams, James RHome Energy ServicesCLASS: R1,PNC
Email: jimwilliams@homebuildingstore.comBusiness: 904/757-3569Fax: 904/757-7104
2080 Davis RdJacksonville FL 32218County: Duval

Finally, for information on other residential incentives, please visit and bookmark our Residential Green Building webpage: www.usgbcnf.org/page/rgb

Happy Conserving!

FIRE SAFETY Class

This free class is open for everyone to attend. This educational class will focus on how to prevent fire and fire safety. It will be presented by Danny Foote who works for the Jacksonville Fire Department. It's organized by RADO (Riverside Avondale Development Organization) and the R2 section of the RAP Assisted Neighborhood Watch.

Everyone one is welcome including children. Invite everyone you know! :)

Call Melody at 381.0950 with any questions.


What : Free Fire Safety Class
When: Tuesday August 31st
Time: 6:00 pm
Where: 2519 Phyllis Street 32204 (Firefighter Hall)
Who: YOU!!!!

Green Initiatives : It's HOT!!! Save on you electric bill

Cooling your home during the hottest part of the year

-Install set-back digital thermostats on your A/C system or heat pump. Every degree of set “up” for air conditioning may save up to 6% on central A/C electric usage. These devices can also “turn off” A/C when you are not home.

-Close windows and doors during the hottest parts of the day, and when outdoor conditions are humid. Humidity can build up in home furnishings and may cause your A/C to run longer.

-Close draperies and window shades on sunny warm days, especially on south and western facing windows.

-Reduce oven, stove, indoor lights, and TV use since appliances release considerable by-product heat indoors resulting from electrical use.

-Accentuate natural lighting in your home, this will reduce the need for lighting.

-Use “solar tube” skylights where spaces have no windows.

-Install ceiling fans in your most frequently occupied rooms, such as family rooms and bedrooms – fans can make 80 degrees seem like 75 degrees.

-When outdoor conditions are mild – open your windows in all rooms of the home for natural ventilation.

-Choose energy-efficient windows for replacements – look for the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) rating or have and equivalent energy performance warranty from the manufacturer or builder.

-Plant drought tolerant shade trees around your home, but remember to provide good “solar” access to south-facing windows during winter.

-Select the lightest colors when painting your home or putting on a new roof.

These tips should help you save a little energy and money during these incredibly hot months In Florida!

Weekly Series: Green Initiatives , The many uses of baking soda

How can Baking soda be green? Well , if you think about it rather than buying , toilet bowl cleaner, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, jewelry cleaner, cat litter deodorizer (the list goes on and on) you could buy baking soda in bulk and use this ONE item for all of these! It's amazing! Just think of all of the emissions , plastic and energy would you be saving buy not buying more products than you need.

Here a just a FEW tips on how to use baking soda.

- Water stains on wooden floors can be removed with a sponge dampened in a solution of baking soda dissolved in water.
-Baking soda can deter ants - pour a solid line in areas of activity and they won't cross it.
- Sprinkling baking soda in the bottom of rubbish bags will help to control odors as you add trash.
- To give your dishwasher a good clean, run it through a cycle and use baking soda instead of detergent.
- Baking soda can be thrown on stove fires to extinguish the flames. The carbon dioxide generated when the powder burns starves the fire of oxygen.
- To clean jewelry, use a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water, apply the mixture the piece, allow to sit for a couple of minutes, rinse off and then polish with a soft cloth.
- make toothpaste with 70% Coconut oil and 30% Bicarb both are good for teeth and gums , just watch the stains from tea tannins on your teeth fade.
- Sprinkle baking soda on rugs and carpets before vacuuming as a deodorising treatment. Most carpet powders you buy are baking soda based! Just a brief note on this - not recommended for areas that are very humid as the baking soda may stay in the carpet
- Sprinkle some in your veggies crisper and cover with a cloth or paper towel for crisper veggies that last longer.
- Crayon or text marks on walls? Try applying baking soda/water paste on an old toothbrush and lightly brush the affected area.
- Stains on porcelain sinks, toilets and plastics can be removed by applying a layer of baking soda and then using a damp sponge . I found this to work particularly well on a water stain in a sink that couldn't be shifted otherwise without the use of heavy duty chemicals and scratching the surface.

These are just a few household items that can be used with baking soda. Make your very own concoction today!

Weekly Credit Series : Options for Investing

There are many different ways to save and invest your money nowadays. Here are just 3 examples.

Banks and Credit Unions: You can put your savings in an account at a bank or credit union. In return, they pay you interest for you keeping your money at their institution. The plus side of this is the longer you save , the more money you earn. Shop around for the best interest rate.

Mutual Funds: When you invest in a mutual fund , the mutual fund company then uses your money to buy shares of stocks and bonds of many different companies. However this can be risky. When the market goes down the value of the mutual fund goes down.

Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) : This is a program where for every dollar you save, the funds are matched by an IDA sponsor. It varies form $1 -4$. These are usually available to low income people but they are not available everywhere. Check out www.iadanetwork.org to find a location near you.

Green Intittiaves : "Greening" your coffee?

"The greenest way of preparing coffee at home is the French press, which reduces the amount of energy, water and disposable product required.

Unlike most countertop coffee machines, French presses are manual. They are much better than the electronic options that are left plugged in and consume a steady stream of energy to keep water continuously hot. They also don't require paper filters or plastic pods, one-time-use items that fill up your trash bin and add to our landfills.

You also save water and energy. Just boil the amount of water you need for your cup in an electric kettle. Many models now on the market are more energy-efficient, and they automatically shut-off when your water is ready.

Just add one spoonful of coarsely ground coffee grains to the French press for every cup of coffee. Let it sit in the hot water for four minutes, while the flavor and the oils are released for the much-desired morning coffee kick. And voila!

Even the French press itself can be green, like the one by Bodum made with 30% post-consumer material called CREMA. And if you're composting or gardening, the used coffee grounds are also a good source of nitrogen."
Information courtesy of the daily green

Featured Contractor (and previous NASA employee) : John Kinstle

We have used John Kinstle with one of our NSP homes and he's just now starting another one of ours. I spoke with him briefly today and let me just say , this man's resume has go to be a mile long!

John is 63 years young. He is one of four children and he himself has had 3 children with one surviving. He is also blessed with 2 grandchildren.

He's an avid surfer (has been for forty years!) and has once had a black belt. His previous jobs include, (wait for this) Self Defense Instructor, working for NASA in the System Range Safety division. Which were in charge of the launch system safety element. He has worked for Pentagon and even the White House. During his term at the White House he served on the Task force for Recycling under President Clinton. He has a degree in engineering and oh, by the way he became a General Contractor in 2007! Whew! In his new role as a GC he has built 5 NSP homes, 1 custom, 1 addition, and 1 demolition.

He one of the most thorough and nicest contractors I have ever met.

If you are interested in John doing some work for you , you can contact him at

John Kinstle Homes, Inc.

Address: 1123 Girvin Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32225

Phone number: 904-220-5474

Fax number: 904-221-3567

Weekly Credit Series : Checking and Savings Accounts

Why are Checking and Savings accounts important? Well, with a checking account at a bank or credit union, you can use your monthly statement to show creditors that you do a good job at paying your bills on time. It also usually cost less to have a checking account than it would be to purchase a money order to pay bills.



If you don't have a checking account you might want to consider setting one up, but first shop around. Call several banks and ask what they charge and what services they provide. It might be wise to use a bank or credit union that is nearest you or has the most convenient locations.



Savings accounts are equally important. One of the best ways to improve your overall financial status is to save money every month. Even if it is only a small amount. An easy way to start is to take 10% of your check and deposit that into savings every pay period. Another simple way is once you have paid off a debt, continue paying the same "bill" but put that money in savings. Something else simple, put $1 a day in jar and any other loose change at the end of every month deposit that into your savings.



These techniques sound easy but most people still don't do them! I assure you that once you get into the habit of saving you will be hooked!

FREE !!! Common Sense Self Defense Class.

RADO , along with RAP and the R2 section of the RAP Assisted Neighborhood Watch , is hosting a free self-defense class. This class will teach you fun and easy techniques to protect yourself. Officer Sam Rodriguez will be teaching the course. It will be on Monday , July 19th at 6:00 pm. Seating is limited. Please RSVP to Melody at 904.381.0950 or msbyrd@radocdc.org

Green Intitaitves: Use Vodka in between Laundering Clothes ?

There are many other uses for vodka. Here's one that can reduce energy and water!

Use a spritz or two of vodka to freshen up clothes in between laundry loads. You can reduce the amount of laundry you end up doing, saving time, energy, water and cleaning chemicals.

We all need clean clothes, but actually doing the laundry uses a lot of resources and cuts into our free time. Many times, an item worn once doesn't really need a full washing. So instead of lugging it to a laundromat or down to your basement machines, spritz your duds with a little vodka, then hang to dry in a well-ventilated area. (Do a spot-test first to be safe.)

Vodka kills odor-causing bacteria, but doesn't leave a scent when dry.

Weekly Credit Series: Cuting expenses and increasing income

Here are a few ideas for cutting expenses:

-Buy only things you really need.

-make a shopping list BEFORE you go to the store and stick to it. Pay with cash! This will ensure that you will not go over.

-Eat at Home, take your lunch to work and scour restaurants for "kids eat free" and "half off coupons".

-look for sales and off-season bargains.

-Always compare prices and amount of food if it's groceries you are comparing. It may be cheaper but it has 5 oz. less than the other!

-Share driving and use public transportation.

-Buy a used car preferabley with cash.

-Shop at thrift stores, garage sales and flea markets.

-Discontinue services you don't really need, cable tv, internet (can use library's), cell phone and pager.

-Avoid cash checking stores, pawnshop loans, and rent-to-own stores. They have incredibly high interest charges.



Tips to increase your Income

-Get a part time job.

-Work overtime hours at your current job.

-Sell items that you make or no longer need at flea markets and garage sales.



There are possibly hundreds more ways to make more and spend less. It really just depends on your lifestyle but if you are able to use some of these tips , it will get you and your budget going in the right direction.

Weekly Credit Series:Budgeting

So you may ask ," How can a budget improve my credit?" Well, there are many ways. Think of a budget as a financial plan or a spending plan. It helps YOU, not someone else, plan how and where you will spend your money. And most importantly, how you will save it. Another plus for having a budget is when you are applying for a mortgage loan you can show the lender how much income you have and what your expenses are.



Here are the basic 4 steps to creating a budget.



1. List your income.

2. List your expenses.

3. Compare income and expenses.

4. Set Priorities and make changes so that your income will be greater than your expenses.



It sounds easy but step 4 can be a doozy! This is the step that will take the most time and research. Let's say you don't want to get rid of a few pricey items. You may want to consider researching some cheaper options.



For a budget to work , it MUST be accurate. A safe way to do that is to save a month's worth of expenses and bills. This will give you a better understanding of how you are spending your money.



Another great tool is the online FREE budgeting tool at



http://www.mint.com/



This site hooks up to your banking and will e-mail if your exceed your budget. It's an excellent way to keep track of things!



The most important thing I would say to do is to START! Until you start a budget it will be impossible to track your spending and get your credit back under control or to keep it right where it is.

Reunited and it feels so good!

Our Internet and phone lines have been down for a week and a half and BOY does it feel good to be back!

And with so much going on!

This Saturday I will have a table at the Riverside Arts Market. I will be promoting our first ever golf tournament that will be coming this October. Then on Monday , along with RAP we will be hosting our second organizational meeting for the R-2 Section of the RAP Assisted Neighborhood Watch. This will be at the firefighters hall at 2519 phyllis street. If any of you may be interested in attending , feel free to contact Melody at 904.381.0950 or emial riversidenwr2@gmail.com.

Weekly Credit Series: Creating Credit History

Maybe you buy everything with cash. Or possibly have recently divorced or have never taken out a loan. You are not in debt and should be happy about it. The only problem with that is you may not have any credit history. This can be a problem when you are ready to buy a home. For such a hefty purchase, the mortgage lender will want to see that you can pay your bills AND manage credit.
There are ways to gain credit even if you don't have credit cards or loans. This is called non-traditional credit.
Here are a few examples of how to gain that.

-Keep copies of bills you pay, including your rent, telephone, electricity , cable, gas and insurance.

-Keep copies of the canceled checks used to pay your bills

-Ask your landlord , and all other major bills (gas, telephone etc) to write a letter of recommendation. In the letter they should describe how long you have been a customer and how you have paid your bills every month.

-Show your bills, payments and letters to lenders to prove that you pay your bills on time every month . A record that shows 2 years of regular payments is ideal .

-Consider one credit card. A good way to start a credit card is through your bank with a "secured" credit card. This is backed by your savings account to help you establish your credit without having you spending frivolously . Make sure to use it a couple times a month a pay it off right away.

-If you are married make sure some credit accounts are in both of your names.

-Ask a nonprofit credit counseling agency for help in preparing non traditional credit history.

By following these tips you should be able to gain good credit without ever really needing a major credit card.

Green Initiatives : JEA Topics

The Jacksonville Electric Authority holds radio seminars and Q & A sessions on Saturday afternoons at 1 pm. You can tune into these at 690 AM or 106.5 FM

Here is the rest of May and June's line-up

5/15
Increase your irrigation IQ with helpful watering tips.

5/22
Are you thinking about investing in solar? Jea will speak on their solar programs.

5/29
Jea plans electric needs up to 30 years in advance! Today they will discuss their plans to meet future demand.

6/5
Are you prepared for hurricane season?

6/12
The step by step process of electric, water and sewage restoration following a storm.

6/29
Fresh water shortages: discussing the pressure that environmental regulations are placing on water costs.

6/26
How to go green when remodeling.

Weekly Credit Series: Bankruptcy , Foreclosures and Repossessions

Quite a few people I come in contact with have had either a foreclosure, bankruptcy or repossession at one point in their life. This definitely has effected their ability to acquire new credit, for the information about these can stay on your credit report for up to 7 - 10 years.
If you happen to be in one of these situations and want to apply for a new loan there are a few things you can do. The easiest thing to do is to perhaps write a letter explaining how and why the problem occurred, perhaps you fell ill or lost your job.
But, the best thing for you may be to wait. The length of time you may want to wait will depend on the amount of the loan and the lender's rules. During the waiting period make it your priority to pay all of your bills on time. You want the lender to see you are taking steps to improve your credit score.
If you need a little extra help in this department there are quite a few organizations that can assist you.

Here are a few in the Jacksonville area:

Family Foundations 396.4846

Jacksonville Urban League 356.8336

Wealth Watchers 380.4292

The Housing Partnership
of Northeast Florida 398.4424

Green Initiatives: Shower Tips

Here's an easy tip to try. Take a Navy Shower. My father used to take them all the time and tried to make us do them too. Now as an adult, I see the importance.



So try this:

1. When you first get in the shower get completely wet

2. Turn off the water

3. Wash your body and hair

4. Then turn the water back on to rinse off!



It might take some getting used to but once you are doing it consistently it'll be like you have always showered this way.

If you're having trouble with this here are a couple things you could try. Try turning off the water when you shampoo only or maybe just take a very short shower (5-7 minutes).

For some motivation and to see how much water you really use during a shower, close the plug. You'll be amazed at how much water accumulates. Remember this , a typical shower uses 5 gallons per minute!!! That is crazy!!!

Now ladies may wonder how in the world are they going to shave their legs. Try this. Once you are completed with a shower just fill a cup or the tub with a "little" water and shave that way. You do not need a constant stream of water when shaving.

if you would like to find more great tips on showering and other ways to conserve water check out this great site!



http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/naturalresources/components/DD6946r.html

Weekly Credit Series: Caution "credit repair " Agencies

There are many legitimate , non-profit and community based counseling organizations that provide much -needed service to those who are having credit issues. These are not "credit-repair" companies and are definitely not to be confused with those who promise to wipe your credit clean for a fee. That is not possible. The only one who can repair your credit is you. These reputable organizations help you do that and only fee is a very minimal fee to pull your credit report. If you are hesitant, contact the better Business Bureau to check on the company.

Here's is a list of some local, reputable organizations

Housing Partnership of N.E. Florida 398.4424

Family Foundations 396.4846

Jacksonville Urban League 356.8336

Second Chance Help Center 616.3113

Wealth Watchers 380.4292

RADO is parterning on RAP's "RAP Assisted Neighborhood Watch"

I am pretty excited! We , RADO , have been able to partner with The Riverside Avondale Preservation Society's neighborhood watch. They have been researching, setting up boundaries and working diligently on this program for the past year to make sure it will run as smoothly as possible! Now that all of the hard work is done, it's time for me to step in!!!

They have already started R-1 (which stands for Riverside -1) of the phase and now RADO is stepping in to help with R-2 and R-3. Again, pretty excited! This is allowing RADO to focus on an area where the majority of our homes are and where we already hold community activities , like clean-ups. It just makes sense!

RADO will officially begin working on this right away! The first official meeting for R-2 will be in about 3 weeks.

The set boundaries for R-2 are Phyllis St. to College St. and Stockton Street to King street. Now, if you aren't familiar with Riverside this probably makes no sense to you, but just know, it is quite a large area with many residents!

RADO will initially be the coordinator for these boundaries and will also hold clean-ups, seminars and many others types of community programs all under the Neighborhood Watch umbrella. This is a program that is taking a holistic approach to "watching" a neighborhood. It's about getting to know your neighbors first, then if necessary reporting to the authorities. It's about holding block parties and making everyone know they are welcome. It's about taking pride and standing up for the things your believe in.

I am really looking forward to this opportunity for RADO and RAP to work together and I know many great things are to come!

If you know anyone who may live in this area or has any other questions please have them call Melody at 904.381.0950 or e-mail at msbyrd@radocdc.org

Green Initiatives Post : REDUCE The easiest way to conserve of all!!!

Reduce
This has got to be the easiest step you can take towards "living green" and doing your part to conserve.

Here are a few examples of what you can do, some of them on a daily basis:
Turn off the lights when leaving a room.
Use both sides of the paper when printing and copying.
Walk or bike instead of driving.
Take short showers.
Drink tap water instead of bottled water.
Remove unnecessary items from your car to reduce weight.
Regularly replace the filter on your HVAC system.
Install faucet aerators.
Use cold water to wash clothes.
Stop junk mail.
Install a programmable thermostat in your home.

If you would like any other tips of conserving check out
http://www.jea.com/community/conservcenter/index.asp

Weekly Credit Series: It may be time for an Expert

If you owe money to many different businesses, it may be time for go to go to the experts. Consider going to a non-profit organization, like the Housing Partnership of Northeast Florida (904.398.4424). This organization and others like it can work with you and your creditors to set up a repayment plan. Most organizations are free or only require little cost. Other places to look for credit counselors include universities, military bases, credit unions, banks and housing authorities.

www.thehousingpartnershipofnortheastflorida.com

Green Initiatives: Buy Local Produce

Food travels an average of 1,200 miles before it reaches your plate, so buy locally produced items. This will in return save energy and prevent emissions from going into the air. Visit USDA.gov to find a farmers market in your area or if you live right here in Jacksonville, visit http://www.jaxfarmersmarket.com/ for information about Jacksonville's Farmers Market. This Market boasts as being a "Treasured Tradition since 1938". It is located at 1780 West Beaver Street and is the oldest Farmer's Market in Florida. It's open 7 days a week.

You could also check out the Riverside Arts Market http://www.riversideartsmarket.com/ which hosts food, produce, art and entertainment every Saturday until December.

Another good tip is to choose fresh foods instead of frozen, since frozen foods require 10 times more energy to produce. Finally, organic foods are both good for the environment and good for your health since synthetic hormones, most conventional pesticides, as well as other potentially hazardous practices are not used. (Source: U.S. EPA)

Weekly Credit Series: Steps for Getting Help

Step #1 Call your creditors if you are having difficulties paying your debts BEFORE you miss a payment: This may be a difficult step for you to take, but it will be much easier and less embarrassing if you do this now. Also, consider your options. If you are really struggling to make a car payment for example, it may be better for you to sell the vehicle and pay off the loan rather than creditor repossessing it. A repossession is a definite way to hurt your credit rating and even once it is fixed it will show for some time.

All Things CITY!!!!

Over here at RADO we are big fans of the City of Jacksonville. We work with the all of the time to accomplish our goals but they have many services, MANY services, for regular ol' people to use. I decided to let you guys know about just a couple of tools that will help make your lives much easier.
First, E-care. This is an excellent tool if you would like to request a service , register a complaint, and then check the status of your complaint or request. I love this site because it is so easy. I am going to register a complaint and walk you through it.
First, you can pick from a number of categories. They include items such as pollution, flood zone, code enforcement, vandalism to employee behaviour. For my example I picked "drainage". Then you add an "issue description". I used "misc. inquiries about street and drainage" After you pick an issue description they give you an example what that entails.
The next step is for you to add in your own words what you complaint is. The next step is to give more detailed information. They ask you questions like "is this complaint at an intersection" You are then asked if you would like to contacted by phone, email, or to not be contacted at all. Once you submit , you are done!
It actually took longer to write this than it did to file my complaint. Also, if it is an issue that also affects your neighbors, ask them to file a complaint too. The more the city hears about it, the faster it will get taken care of.
Here is the link:
http://ecare.coj.net/

The next very cool tool keeps you posted about everything you could possibly want to know about the city. Like, events and legislative happenings. The most recent post was "City Presents Updated Preliminary Flood Maps to Jacksonville Property Owners". The site is called "nixle". The way you set it up is like most any networking site. They ask for you email ,a login name and then a password. If you like you can enter more specific information so the information you receive will be more specific towards your interests.You can subscribe to different agencies/groups and either have the information sent to you by email or your phone. Plus, you don't have to stop at local agencies. You can subscribe to practically any group or agency from anywhere. This tool is an excellent way for you to know about the interesting or important things that are going on in your community .
Here is the link:
http://www.nixle.com/

I hope you use these tools because there really is a lot that the city provides for it's citizens. If you have any questions, about ANYTHING, call 630.CITY. They will direct you to the right department.

Green Initiatives Post: Properly Dispose of Hazardous Waste

Properly Dispose of Hazardous Waste Electronics, CFLs, certain batteries, and other household hazardous wastes contain toxic materials so they should not be sent to landfills. If they are they can pollute the surrounding land and water. One computer monitor may contain 4 pounds of lead as well as other toxic heavy metals. Many companies including Home depot , Sam's Club and Ikea will take your used CFL's.

Jacksonville's hazardous waste center is at 2675 Commonwealth avenue. The types of things they take is paint, paint thinners, fertilizers, rechargeable batteries, acids, gun powder and CFL s just to name a few. The city also collects "e-waste" throughout the year through with mobile collections. Televisions, computers, telephones, and small kitchen appliances are just a few examples of e-waste that is collected on the mobile collections. For more information when and where the next e-waste collection will be call 387-8847 or check out this link : http://www.coj.net/Departments/Public+Works/Solid+Waste/Household+Hazardous+Wastes.htmIf

If you have any more questions call 630-CITY and ask about "hazardous wastes" or check out this link : http://www.coj.net/Departments/Public+Works/Solid+Waste/Household+Hazardous+Wastes.htm

Weekly Credit Series : Keeping Track of Bills

Just because you have stopped receiving notices and bills does not mean that your debt has disappeared. For example, doctors or hospitals sometimes stop sending bills to patients after several months but then turn it over to a collection agency. This will ultimately end up on your credit report. Unpaid student loans will also end up on your credit report and prevent you from getting a loan. Check your credit report now, before you try to get a loan and make sure there is nothing on your report that needs to be paid or disputed.

Free Movies in the Treaty Oak Park are back!!!

Downtown Vision is hosting four PG movies this spring. It is held on the lawn at Treaty Oak Park at 1123 prudential drive. Most of you may know this park. It is very near The Museum of Science and History and hosts the oldest Oak Tree in Jacksonville.


This is a free event! Everyone is welcome to attend. Feel free to bring a lawn chair, picnic blanket and/or dinner. There will some vendors there if you want to go that route. Well behaved pets are welcome and alcoholic beverages are not! There is free parking available in the Suddath garage located across from the Hampton Inn on Flagler Street. The garage opens at 5:30 pm but the movie won't start until dusk (around 8pm).

Here's this year's Friday Night "Movies in the park" line-up:



Shrek April 16th

Sixteen
Candles April 23rd

Back to
the Future April 30th

Breakfast
at Tiffany's May 7th


If you would like to know any more information about this or any other Downtown Vision events visit http://www.downtowjacksonville.org/ or call 904.451.3344

The Riverside Arts Market was Super Fun

I had a good time at the arts market this past Saturday. This excellent market has an area specifically for non-profits to set up that is offered for free. It was great. I was able to meet new poeple and spread the word about what RADO has to offer.
I have always enjoyed visiting the arts Market on my own, but it was really nice to be on the other side of the table. RADO will be attending the market the second Saturday of every month , so if you missed us this time you can come back and see me on may the 8th!

http://www.riversideartsmarket.com/index.html

Green Initiatives Post: Computer Power Management

Computer Power Management: "Enable low-power sleep modes and turn off computers and monitors at night. General Electric implemented power management features on 75,000 of its computers, annually saving the company $2.5 million dollars and preventing 20,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. For step-by-step instructions on how to optimize the settings on your computer, visit ENERGY STAR. Network administrators can also set system wide power management settings by using EZ GPO, a free software tool from ENERGY STAR. (Source: ENERGY STAR)"
courtesy of www.ourearth.org

Weekly Credit Series

Step #9 Look for ways to cut your expenses or increase your income: Okay, I know increasing your income is IDEAL but hey, it could happen. Want to know how to cut your expense? Use a budget! This is how I do it:

Add up all of your monthly bills , the most important, HAVE TO GET PAID ones first (mortgage, rent , utilitiies etc.) then all of the others that aren't really needed (cable, gym membership etc.) and combine.

Then add up your monthly income. I usually do 4 1/2 weeks just to be safe. Then subtract the two. You shouldn't come up in the negatives.

This is where you can see what isn't neccessary and then cut it out, or at least cut back.

Do you really need HBO? Why don't you try renting from the library? Are you actually going to the gym? Maybe you could workout at home.

This way you will have more money to pay off your debts and then , SAVE.

Fifth Annual " JAXParks...Get out There" Event

It's official. Spring is finally here. The pollen is out. The birds are chirping and the weather is absolutely gorgeous! Another way to signify spring, the Fifth Annual "Get Out There Celebration". This is a free city event to help persuade people to visit one or many of Jacksonville's gorgeous parks.

In case you didn't know, Jacksonville is home to the nation's LARGEST urban park system. The city launched this event five years ago to offer a taste to all ages of Jacksonville's abundant park system.

The event starts today from 10 am. to 10 pm at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park and at 500 Wonderwood drive, Atlantic beach.

Friday the 9th
9am -3pm Environmental Education: Beach Walk and Talk
10-4pm Trailing though the woods: Bicycle rides
10:30-2pm Fishing Clinics with Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission
11am-4pm 85th annual Kite Festival
1-2pm Surf and sand: Surfing demonstrations and sand castle building
6-10pm Star gazing
6-10pm Movies in the Park

Saturday the 10th
The old mandarin biatholon 7:30-9am at Walter Jones Historical Park 11964 Mandarin Road

Kids Kampus Survivor 10 am -2pm 1410 Gator Bowl Blvd. 630-CITY for more information

River Celebration Day 11am-4pm Walter Jones Historical Park

Call 630-CITY with any questions.

First Hand RADO Home-Buying Experience

My name is Melody Byrd, RADO's Client Specialist / Communications Director, and I bought a RADO home with my fiance 2 and a half years ago! So I know first hand how this process works. We were really excited to get our home but let me back up a little and tell it from the beginning...
About 4 years ago my fiance and I just found out we were pregnant. Even though we were incredibly excited , we knew we had to find a home very soon. We didn't even consider Riverside because we KNEW it was way out of our price range.
My love for Riverside started in middle school when my school bus went through the area twice a day. I always dreamed of living in the very eclectic and beautiful neighborhood but didn't think that I would ever be able to. My fiance had grown up on the Westside like me, and had always rented in Riverside but also thought it was out of his price range.
Fast forward many years back to our new pregnancy. We began looking for a home in the areas where we could afford, which were no where near Riverside mind you. One day we were driving home from his aunt's home in Gilmore Street and right next to it we saw 2628 Gilmore Street and it was UGGGLy but, it had a RADO sign out front so I decided to call. Once I called they said that it once a renovation project but it was unfortunately already under contract.They then explained to me the process and it was pretty simple : fall into the income bracket and you could qualify for down payment and closing cost assistance. We met all of the criteria, filled out an application and met with the lender. We were pre-approved and then all we had to do was wait on a home we liked. Well, we waited one year until we finally found a lot that we really liked and I'm glad we did because RADO was planning on putting my favorite ground plan on it , the Benin. To make an already way too long story , short. We ended up getting the home of our dreams and without the inflated price. RADO only sells their homes at the approved value so you don't ever have to worry about paying extra. Many times I have sat back and said "I love my house" because I truly do. I feel great knowing that now with my position I am able to help people acquire a RADO home. So don't hesitate. Call today and we will get you there so you too can look back and admire your home!

(The Pictures above are BEFORE and AFTER on 2628 Gilmore Street, the home next door to my aunt's house)

Weekly Credit Series

Tip# 8 Use your credit card to establish good credit. This may seem confusing and contradictory but, if you can use your credit card wisely you can actually acquire good credit. Don't overuse a credit card and be sure to pay them off every month or keep the balances very low.

Come out to the Neighborhood Stablization Workshop!

The city is hosting a two -day workshop for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. These workshops are designed to help educate interested home buyers about NSP. Lenders and developers will be there to help with eligibility requirements and to showcase homes that are available through the program.

Tuesday, March 30 the event is scheduled for 6:30-8 p.m. at St. Pius V Catholic Church at 2110 Blue Ave. On Wednesday, the March 31 event is also scheduled from 6:30-8 p.m. but it will be held at the Main Library at 303 N. Laura St. The event will be the same on both days so you do not have to attend both.

The Neighborhood Stabilization Program is a $26 million program utilizing Housing and Urban Development (HUD) money to buy foreclosed houses. Developers purchase the homes and renovate them to strict standards. The homes are then sold to qualified home buyers.

Homes are available in the 32206, 32208, 32209, 32244 and 32254 zip codes. Prospective buyers must make their NSP home their primary residence and complete a mandatory eight-hour credit counseling program.

Families and individuals with an adjusted family income of up to 120 percent of the area household median income are eligible to participate. A family of four can earn as much as $78,000 and qualify for an NSP home. Buyers can own for as little as $500 down and may qualify for purchase assistance.

There are currently over 70 homes in the rehabilitation phase, soon to be available for purchase. All homes are renovated to include Energy Star-rated appliances to lower electric bills. For more information about the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, go to http://www.nspjax.com/ or call 904-398-HOME (4663).

RADO will be there among many others. Come check it out!

Green Initiatives Post: Buy Energy Star Rated Appliances

"Look For The ENERGY STAR Label If a product has the ENERGY STAR seal, it meets certain energy efficiency standards. Home appliances, electronics, windows, and roofing are just a few of the products that can qualify, so check a product’s box or manual, or speak to a salesperson to see if it is ENERGY STAR compliant. In 2006, ENERGY STAR products helped US consumers save an estimated $14 billion on their utility bills. In addition to energy savings, there are rebates and federal tax credits available for some ENERGY STAR products. Visit ENERGYSTAR.gov or our energy section for more information. (Source: ENERGY STAR)"
-information from http://www.ourearth.org/

Green Iniatives Post: Buy Recycled Products

Step #3 "Buy Recycled. Look for the words "postconsumer" or "recycled" when shopping. There are over 4,500 recycled-content products available including paper towels, printer paper, note pads, packing boxes, sleeping bags, laundry detergent bottles, glass containers, nails, carpeting, trash cans, and trash bags. The amount of postconsumer content can vary from a small percentage to 100 percent, so look for labels that indicate the highest percentage. (Source: U.S. EPA)"

-courtesy of http://www.ourearth.org/

Weekly Credit Series

Credit Tip #7 Try to pay more than the minimum amount due each month When paying only the minimum balance due every month, you end up paying a lot more in the end. For example, let's say you buy a sofa for $1,000 and their is an 18% interest rate. If you only make the minimum payment of 2% (about $20 ) a month, it would take you 7 1/2 years and $800 more to pay of that couch. That's why you always pay more than the minimum or better yet, save up and buy in cash!

Free Energy and Water Conservation Seminar

Free Energy and Water Conservation Seminar

Featured Home : 8384 Chessman Court

Home for Sale! This is a home under the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. A city launched program where you could get up to $40,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. These NSP Homes are completely renovated to "like new" condition. Like new means the home gets whatever it needs to be updated . This may include new roof, new hot water heater... whatever it may need to pass many inspections. These homes always include fresh paint and new carpet, new energy-star rated stainless steel applainces and light fixtures. This program is an awesome way to become a homeowner.

Call to learn more information about this home today!


8384 Chessman Court 32244

3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms

1,359 square feet

Mc Girts Creek Regional Park located directly behind the home

Green Initiaves Post

Step #2 Recycle "By recycling materials such as aluminum cans, newspapers, and glass jars, you can save energy and landfill space, conserve natural resources, and also prevent pollution. Recycling one ton of paper saves 17 mature trees, 7,000 gallons of water, three cubic yards of landfill space, two barrels of oil, and 4,100 kilowatt-hours of electricity – enough energy to power the average US home for five months. "
information from www.ourearth.org

Weekly Credit Series

Credit Tip #6 If you feel you can wisely use a credit card , choose one with a low interest rate and no (or little ) annual fees. Usually credit cards issued by department stores or other stores, charge higher interest rates than bank credit cards but, you can always do your research on the internet. Don't pay an upront fee to get a lower rate on a credit card! An upfront fee is different from an annual fee and is most likely a scam.

Working on my next Seminar!

I'm really excite about this upcoming seminar. It is called
"SAVINGS WITHOUT SACRIFICE" (When I make it big like that it seems more important huh? ) and will feature a speaker from the Jacksonville Electric Authority (J.E.A.).
When speaking to Brian Pippin ,who will be the guest speaker , he listed a whole slew of seminars that I could do! I am pretty exited because each and every one of them sound incredibly useful for anyone to attend. Well, and because I'm going to make my significant other attend on the behalf of our little household! So, I recommend each and every one of you attend. It'll be on March 27th. So pencil it in and I will let you know when the date and venue is decided!

Green Initiatives Weekly Series

Here at the Riverside Avondale Development Organization we try to do our part when it comes to building green. For example, we always install energy-star and water-star rated appliances and always use non-invasive plants when landscaping. We initiate clean-ups as well as hosting informational seminars about "going green". Soooooo, that's why it just seems right to have a weekly series on green initiatives. This will be starting today (!) and will continue every Friday until I run out of things to talk about!

*Ten Easy Steps to Conserve*

Step #1 Unplug Unused Electronics.

Did you know that a lamp still consumes electricity even when it isn't turned on? Twenty five percent of the electricity used in an average home is used to power home electronics while the products are turned off. To stop these wasteful and expensive "phantom loads" from happening in your home, unplug or connect them to power strips, which can then be turned off. (Source: U.S.DOE)

Weekly Credit Series

Tip #5 Only apply for the Credit you need Every time you apply for credit, it appears on your credit report. If you apply often, creditors may be concerned that you are using too much credit. Even if you do not open the charge account, your application may raise a flag that you may be having cash flow problems. Avoid applying for credit cards just for fun , a "free" gift , or to receive a discount on a purchase.

RADO's 1st Golf Tournament!

Well, it is all set up and ready to go! Now we just need people! The Riverside Avondale Development Organization is having our first ever golf tournament this October! It feels like a long way off but it'll be here before we know it. It is going to be a super fun day and 100% of the proceeds will go to the Green Street Infrastructure Community Project. Here's the goods...



Greater RADO Open

~ Bent Creek Golf and Country Club

~ Wednesday October 5th

~ 8:00 a.m. Check -in

~ Sign-Up Deadline September 15th

~individual $55
twosome $110
foursome $220
(Price includes lunch, cart and ticket to award ceremony)

~ Sponsorship Opportunities ranging from $100-$500

~ Many prizes and raffles including the Hole in One prize: a 2010 Ford Mustang Convertible!

If you need additional information go to http://www.radogolf.com/ or you can e-mail radocdc@radogolf.com

RADO is working on a Neighborhood Crime Watch.

While I was at our clean-up last weekend it was brought to my attention by those who live in the area between Post and I-10, that there have been a lot of burglaries lately. So, I am in the midst of working on a Neighborhood Crime Watch! RADO actually initiated one a couple years back when Jenny McCharen was working here and it was very successful. Unfortunately, when she left the crime watch did too.

My goals are to get another successful group up and running by April. I have a lot of interested people and we are in the process of working with the Riverside Avondale Preservation Society. They are starting a crime watch as well and hopefully we will be able to combine forces!

If any of you are interested feel free to call me. Our number is 904.381.0950 and my e-mail address is msbyrd@radocdc.org.

Weekly Credit Series

Tip #4: Charge less than the maximum amount available on your credit card. Even if you make payments on time, creditors may think that you are too much in debt.

Pictures From RADO, Harpoon Louie's and Florida Bank Clean-Up

Some people enjoying some vittle yum-yums!

Some Volunteers!

The $30 Harpoon Louie's Gift Card winner!

The Florida Bank Crew

Some Clean-er Uppers!

The clean-up was super AWESOME!!!

The title says it all! Our clean-up this past Saturday was excellent!!! I have so many to thank ! Harpoon Louie's and Florida Bank were our sponsors and provided lots!! Tee shirts , gift cards, food, drinks and people! And I can't forget Jacksonville's Clean-it-up Grean it up team who provided the bags, reflective vests and grabbers. Also Bill Loehle from Wood & Laminate Fine Custom furniture graciously let us use their dumpster.
I could not have asked for a more beautiful day. That must have put everyone in a very productive spirit because we accomplished a lot!

Here's the list...

-38 adults and 4 children came out out to help. Some living as far away as San Pablo Road!

-98 bags gathered (just 2 shy from my goal!)

-A whole line of trees and shrubbery were cleared on a very dangerous curb by Alphonso Madison. He lives on Gilmore Street and said there is no visibility on that corner. I think he had to have been our hardest worker. He wouldn't even stop to eat!

-Garfield Cooper RADO'S next door neighbor rode up on his very spiffy bicycle (he does own a bike shop you know) to help out before he went to work. Now that's dedication!

-Maria Cooper from the Times Union was there and we even had a volunteer , Nancy Beecher there just to take pictures for me! She is an excellent photographer and you will see her handy work soon!

We had so many caring people come out that I definitley could not name them all . Well, I mean I COULD but no one would want to read all of that! So I will just mention a few
Rachonda Grover, Ivelisse Torres, Rachel Fender, Harriett Hollinger, Alexis Thraen and Howard Caroway!

So again thank you to

Harpoon Louie's Pub & Grill http://www.harpoonlouies.net/

Florida Bank http://www.flbank.com/

Clean it Up Green it Up of Jacksonville http://www.coj.net/Departments/Environmental+and+Compliance/Dont+Trash+Jacksonville/Clean+It+Up.htm
ZenCog http://www.zencog.com/

the H.I.R.E Group (Hispanic Internal Revenue Employees)

Wood & Laminate Fine Custom Furniture.

Weekly Credit Series

Tip #3 Remind yourself that credit cards are loans. Before you pull out your credit card for a purchase it helps if think of as taking out a loan. Try asking yourself next time,
" Would I really take out a loan to buy this? ".

"I'm SO excited, and I just can't hide it" :)

I can't help it! I am pretty excited about tomorrow's meeting. What meeting might you ask, well, The LISC AmeriCorps meeting of COURSE! The Riverside Avondale Development Organization is very proud to have their very own AmeriCorps member and tommorow RADO is hosting the monthly meeting.

~Wait a minute, AmeriCorps? Is that like Peace Corps?

~Well sort of, a domesticated version I guess. Let me me try to summarize it for you. It is Federally funded though, so beware of wordiness!

LISC AmeriCorps is part of the National Service Network.

~Okay ,that sounds easy.

It was established by an act of Congress in 1993 and re-authorized as the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act. In 1994 LISC , which stands for Local Initiaves Support Corporation, began it's sponsorship of an AmeriCorps program. There are LISC offices all over the country with a total of over 200 hundred AmeriCorps Members for the 09/10 year! Americorps members are set-up to serve with partner organizations by promoting volunteerism and civil engagement. They do this by helping with home ownership counseling /education to prospective buyers and participating & engaging the community with events such as clean-ups and seminars. Forming crime watches and neighborhood groups are also common for an AmeriCorps member but, positions can vary. I know AmeriCorps Members who workin re-entry programs for ex-offenders.

To be quite frank, the role of a LISC AmeriCorps Member is vital to keeping Communities Sustainable.

~That wasn't too bad right? So, these 14 wonderful Jacksonville AmeriCorps will be in our office tomorrow to have lunch and their monthly meeting. So like I said , I'm pretty excited!

P.S. It is pronounced " Amer-a-Cor". There are no corpses involved!

We have a little write up in the Florida Times Union Westside Sun. Check it Out!

http://jacksonville.com/community/riverside/2010-02-13/story/the_sun_notebook_ortega_student_a_contest_winner_plus_a_clean_u

Credit Help : Weekly Series

TIP #2 : Pay off credit cards every month. If this is too difficult, cut up the card so you can't use it. For a less drastic approach, put it away until it is completely paid off. Then only use the card if you have an emergency or know you can pay the balance every month. For all other purchases, write checks or pay with cash. This will help you stay on budget.

HandsOn Jacksonville

Just in time for Valentine's day, the Riverside Avondale Development Organization wants to share their LOVE for the not-for-profit organization , HandsOn Jacksonville. Their organization matches volunteers with a variety activities, for free!!! I definitely love FREE. With just two steps of becoming a member and then choosing a project, you are able to choose from a number of volunteer events. They range in type of activity from volunteering at MOSH to helping with a street Clean-Up.Their mission is clearly stated on their website , "Our Mission is to inspire , equip and mobilize people to take action that changes the world." That pretty much says it all!

For more information you can visit their website at http://www.handsonjacksonville.org/ or call them at 904.332.6767

Our beloved Riverside Avondale neighborhood, or neighbourhood if your British, is featured in the London's Financial times!!!

This is a really well written article and NO I am not just saying that because our wonderful neighborhood is featured in it! Well, maybe a little... But I am so proud to have read this article from across the pond, and to know that the Riverside Avondale Development Organization has done our part in preserving this incredibly beautiful and eclectic neighborhood that we live and work in!
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/0b3639c0-111e-11df-a6d6-00144feab49a.html

Credit Help: A new weekly series

Unfortunately a lot of people I come into contact with for my job have had difficulties with their credit. I have also found that a lot of people never received a proper education on how to acquire and maintain good credit. Apparently, they did not have an oh so caring mother like mine to nag you over and over again with, "It'll go on your credit. " Ahh...I can hear her sing-song nagging now....But, back to the present! So, due to my recent findings, I have decided to post tips on how to acquire credit, improve your credit or maintain the good credit you may already have.

Steps that you can take on your own.

Tip #1 Pay Loans First. Pay them before you spend money on extracurricular activities i.e.
dinner movies etc. Missed payments hurt your credit rating.

Our Featured Clean-Up sponsor, Harpoon Louie's American Pub and Grill

I thought it would be nice to feature one our gracious sponsors for our upcoming clean-up. Drum roll please!!!! Harpoon Louie's has been around for close to 20 years now , so they must be doing something right. Over the years it has evolved from a dive bar, to a late night hangout, now to a very family friendly neighborhood pub. It's owners are three best friends by the names Justin Watkins, David Witt and Gary Kuehner. Justin Watkins works for JEA and is a previous restaurant owner. David Witt has worked at Harpoon Louie's for many years in the past before attending culinary school and opening a restaurant with Justin in 2003 and Gary Kuehner is a captain for The Jacksonville Fire Department. They have been owners for over three years now and have made a few changes while keeping the tried and true. One change is their farmer's market specials they have every weekend. They also have live music on the weekends and are trying to branch out with community efforts. They are known for their wings, burgers and pasta salad to name a few! If you'd like to try out one of their famous "Blackened Bad Boys" or "Fish Nuggets" stop by today! Their number is 389-5631 . They open at 11:00 am everyday. If you would like more information go to their website http://www.harpoonlouies.net/ You can visit them on FaceBook as well.

STREET Clean-Up Scheduled for FEBRUARY 20th!

Hello all! Do any of you need volunteer hours, or have you been meaning to do something for the betterment of the community for this new year? Well, this is the perfect event for you! The Riverside Avondale Development Organization is planning a clean-up with their partners Harpoon Louie's American Pub, Florida Bank and LISC AmeriCorps. This street cleanup will improve the area in the Northwest quadrant of Riverside. It will include the streets of Stockton , Gilmore and Ernest! And of course all of those in between! If you or anyone you know is interested in attending this event please RSVP. with Melody at 904.381.0950
P.S. There will be lunch provided for those who attend!

R.A.D.O. is a CDC. Isn't that the center for disease control?

If you were not aware of it , RADO is a CDC. Now you may ask yourself " I thought that was the center for disease control". Well , so did I before I got this job! In regards to the Riverside Avondale Development Organization , it stands for Community Development Corporation. What in the world does that mean?! Well...

a Community Development Corporation or CDC, is a not-for-profit organization that provides services and programs with the sole purpose of promoting and supporting a community or neighborhood. CDCs can serve a small location such as a neighborhood (Springfield or Riverside) or an entire city.

But CDCs do more than develop projects. As a community developer, we are able to bring in leaders in business, civic organizations, nonprofit organizations, and public agencies together to increase neighborhood vitality and provide group investment. This will eventually drive the community’s self sustainability, improve neighborhood conditions and create new opportunities for families. Overtime ,this will create a truly successful community.

So there you have it. If anyone ever asks you what a CDC is , you will have an answer for them, and a good one at that! :)

Clean-Up

RADO is the midst of organizing a clean-up! It will be on February 20th and I am not quite sure about the time yet. It'll be in the morning at either 9 or 10 . But, I digress!!! It'll be good CLEANIN' - UP FUN!!! We are going to either focus on the Gilmore, Acosta and Ralph area or we will do the Post Street and College area. Either way, we will have a great time with lunch provided afterwards. I will let you know about any updates on times etc. Please put it on your calenders! 904.381.0950 for more information. :)

Featured Home!

439 Smith Street 32204

This home is brand new and is only $118,000. It has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with 1458 square feet. There is an open floor plan with hardwood floors, ceramic tile in bathrooms and kitchen and carpet in the bedrooms. There is a spacious master suite with a garden tub & walk-in closet. It is located on a quiet tree-lined street!

Call about receiving up to $20,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.

*Melody S. Byrd 904.381.0950 or msbyrd@radocdc.org*

RADO's Annual Retreat

This past Saturday , RADO had their annual retreat. It was very inspirational and informative. Kevin Monahan was our facilitator. He works for the Small Business Development Center at the University of North Florida. They offer many classes and workshops for small businesses that range from their "Girls Going Places Entrepreneurial Conference" to their "Non-Profit Social Networking Class" . They even have free workshops. With the help from Kevin, I truly believe he helped ignite the RADO staff and Board. I have a much clearer vision of what needs to be done in order to help spread the good word about what RADO does and has to offer.

Our Origin

RADO was initiated in 1998 by a few dedicated individuals from the Riverside Avondale Preservation Society (RAP). The initial goal was small: rebuilding a home destroyed by a fire in a marginal part of the neighborhood. The task proved to be more complex than imagined for an all volunteer group and in 2001, RADO sought LISC Jacksonville's support to prepare for the next round of projects. RADO continues to pursue new development opportunities in Riverside Avondale and surrounding neighborhoods. To date, RADO has developed and sold over 20 single -family homes.

Upcoming Seminar

RADO is hosting another free NSP Seminar On January 25th, 2010. I know I said I was working on having the next one on a Saturday, but that didn't work out! Sorry! This is on a Monday night at 7:00pm. Everyone who is interested in learning how to receive up to $40,000 in down payment and closing costs assistance towards the purchase of your new home, is welcome to attend!
Location: 881 Stockton St.
Jax., Fl. 32204

RSVP Please. 904.381.0950