Historical February–March 2002 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
The sun is shining today and it’s almost 60 degrees as I write this.
This alone would be enough to make me an optimist. But, as I think about our neighborhood, I have mixed feelings.
I have lived here almost 13 years and can attest to tremendous strides in that period, let alone since 1970. Yet, there are a variety of divisions we have yet to overcome.
The newest one perhaps is between newcomers and oldtimers.
It is what you might expect: oldtimers remember the past and are more sanguine; newcomers may feel the need for more rapid change.
A significant division that has not been made any easier by redistricting is the chasm between Rosedale and Washington Heights. Although Skinker DeBaliviere is everywhere integrated, Rosedale is now majority white and Washington Heights is majority black. Because Rosedale has its own organization, it can more readily take stands on a variety of issues.
I heard recently that some of its residents are examining traffic patterns. That may be a wise idea given the significant construction expected to take place on our north and south boundaries.
However, my immediate response was we’re one neighborhood; we should look at all the traffic patterns together. Perhaps Washington Heights needs to form its own organization or there might need to be an identical formula for council representation on both sides of the neighborhood.
We can extol diversity forever but unless there is real inclusion our diversity is only symbolic and not substantive.
Finally, there is the question of the “naysayers.” Two old and dear friends will refer to this ilk frequently.
The question is how many are afraid of change and want to fight it instead of shape it. Sometimes I wish there could be something we are fighting FOR.
The best example of that is Delmar.
When the Commercial Committee began to look at ways of improving Delmar. many were skeptical. We’ve come a long way since 1989 but there still is distance to travel. Pluck and luck initially moved us forward but there was also a dream and very gifted people who could help us realize it. Let’s keep dreaming. Let’s aim at enhancement. And, let’s make sure everyone is part of the process.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, February–March 2002.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times2002_02.pdf, printed page(s) 2; PDF page(s) 2.
