Historical February–March 2007 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
As I indicated in our last issue, I have gotten very tired of racially targeted campaign literature and telephone calls.
This is likely not the most effective strategy in an integrated neighborhood.
I hope that our citybased campaigns begin to recognize this. Sometimes it seems as if there are 2 neighborhoods in the area bounded by Skinker and DeBaliviere.
The reasons are historic but perhaps no longer relevant.
In the 1960s, even before the SDCC came into being, there was a Rosedale Neighbors west of Des Peres and a Washington Heights organization east of Des Peres.
In the early 1980s, Washington Heights withdrew from the SDCC in a dispute over the redevelopment of Nina Place. Rosedale continued to function. Atlarge members were later added to the council to give Washington Hieghts some representation.
In 1991, Kingsbury Square, Nina Place, and 585900 De Giverville became members. Rosedale picked representatives from 2 block areas and elected its own president.
These officers became SDCC members. Since 2001, Nina Place has not sent a representative. Large sections of Washington Heights are not represented. Rosedale sponsors activities. Why not the SDCC?
The SDCC is undertaking work on its bylaws. Perhaps this is the time to establish the same representation formula for the whole neighborhood. Let’s get everyone involved and also make sure that there are viable block units everywhere to increase security and conduit information.
The neighborhood has been changing everywhere. Old timers have left. Young couples with kids have arrived.
We are still very diverse. Let’s recognize our communality by having one neighborhood that everyone is a part of.
I may feel this more strongly because I’ve always lived in Washington Heights. But, I have seen the 2 neighborhoods dichotomy in action. What do you think? Write us at the Times or call the SDCC, 862-5122.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, February–March 2007.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Archival transcription note: Printed 585900 De Giverville block reference lacks separator; original retained.
Original source: SD_Times2007_02.pdf, printed page(s) 2; PDF page(s) 2.
