HUD Assistant Secretary Orlando Cabrera recently visited Georgia to kick-off Georgia's Public Housing Week celebration. This first-time event was held at the State Capitol on September 19, 2006. On behalf of Governor Sonny Perdue, Mike Beatty, Commissioner for the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, read a proclamation declaring September 19-26, 2006 Public Housing Week throughout the state. Assistant Secretary Cabrera gave the keynote address. Other presenters included Bob Young, HUD Regional Director, Mark Stalvey, President of the Georgia Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities (GAHRA), and Boyce Norris, Director of the Atlanta Office of Public Housing. Representatives from public housing authorities across Georgia, and HUD Atlanta staff also attended the event.

The theme "Georgia's Public Housing: It's More Than You Think" was selected to celebrate the successes of Georgia's public housing authorities, and the impact HUD and GAHRA have made on residents across the State. Throughout the week, local public housing authorities held numerous events to recognize residents, community partners, homeownership accomplishments, and Congressional representatives. The week culminated with Representative Jack Kingston giving special remarks at GAHRA's Fall Conference.

Mike Beatty, Commissioner Georgia DCA reads Georgia's Public Housing Week Proclamation. Behind him are Assistant Secretary Cabrera, Mike Stalvey, Boyce Norris, Jr., and Bob Young.

Boyce Norris, Jr. addressing the audience at the Georgia capitol.