@Zadi - I know, right? The park is lit, but only until 9:30pm. After that, it’s shady - in all senses of the word.

In the end, though, we’re not too whiffed by this whole episode. It’s sad, but I don’t see it as a reflection of our neighborhood as a whole. There is so much great energy here, and we’re certainly going to continue looking for the bright spots. We’re no fear mongers.

Is the park lit at night? I remember in my old neighborhood shady things would go down in the park across the street until they installed bright lights… then people felt safe using it to jog on the track and play ball.

But I can definitely say that O.R.C.A. (in my limited experience with them during their existence) was really great. They managed to get a lot accomplished in a short period of time. I know that the FNA had a police representative that came to their civic meetings to update the community on crime, and he also handed out a card to people with a number to call to report stuff. He basically put it in terms of the squeaky wheel getting the grease. The police patrolled more where they were aware of issues. I’m not sure if O.R.C.A. has this, but it might be worth mentioning or checking into if you’re going to their meetings. I’m still getting their email updates if you want me to forward you the notices of when they’re having meetings….

Let me know!

I’ve been recalling that season in The Wire lately about how one theory is if you solve the small stuff first, maybe the bigger stuff will become more manageable. I wonder where that starts? In my neighborhood it’s probably by seeing to it that kids use the playground for basketball and not for drug deals. I hope it can.