Rose Park residents Cody Lusby, Eric Copeland, and Kim and William King gathered in their alleyway on Orizaba and 6th street to discuss the best place for the solar powered motion detection light that was donated to them by Rose Park Neighborhood Association (RPNA).
The residents missed the deadline for the previous light installation on Saturday, February 3rd, so RPNA agreed to donate a light for them to install.
Cody, an artist and Rose Park resident for 8 years commented on why he loves Rose Park Neighborhood stating, “We are six blocks from the ocean, I love the community and the walkability.”
This impromptu meeting gave neighbors an opportunity to talk about safety and why they love living in Rose Park. Homeowner of 24 years and recipient of the light, Kim King commented, “The light will make pedestrians and kids feel safe walking. We are thrilled the opportunity arose to receive a light.”
Being a teen is tough. Although some may report everything is ‘fine’ those of us that have past that obstacle course can still remember days that weren’t. As a neighborhood we just had our annual BIG heART an event to support our at-risk youth in the neighborhood. It was successful. We will have funds to support art events with youth in the neighborhood.
But it is more than that. It is a commitment to the groups that work with our neighborhood youth. The Luther Burbank School and its after school program and Power 4 Youth for its weekly mentoring. There are programs at our faith based institutions. We’ve facilitated a youth empowerment initiative at our Rose Park each Spring – we are looking for a group to help in this effort (info@rpna.org).
So “how was your day“? A day can seem endless when you are 15. Is there someone to look forward to sharing your day with? A friend? A grandparent? A mentor? Can you help?
The historic Rose Park neighborhood is located in the City of Long Beach, California
