Commentary

Editor’s Notebook — What Can I Do To Help?

By Lana Stein

May 1995

Historical May 1995 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.

These are a few words meant for those readers who sometimes ask ‘What can I do to help?” Here are my recommendations.

First, the neighborhood could be made a great deal more safe if there were increased light in the nighttime hours.

For only a few cents a day, you can increase safety in our environs by turning your porchlight on throughout the evening and night.

This step certainly won’t eliminate all crime but it helps. So, please light up the night. Second, not everyone has the time or inclination to volunteer hours for the neighborhood. That’s understandable.

However, you can also support your neighborhood institutions with a small contribution.

The Times, Friends of Skinker DeBaliviere, or the West End Arts Council could always use a little extra to help them carry out their mission. Any donation, regardless of amount, is useful.

If you happen to have a little extra time, get involved.

This paper can always use writers, people to sell ads, those who can help with layout.

The Skinker DeBaliviere Community Council has committees dealing with beautification, recreation, and other areas. Extra hands are always appreciated.

There is method to these things I advocate.

I sometimes walk in the evening with a canine friend and notice the lack of light on some of our blocks and in Parkview. Second, I know money and helping hands would be greatly appreciated by the paper and the council. But, even more importantly, I know that I have become friends with some very special people because of shared involvement in neighborhood activities.

These were opportunities not available in previous places of residence. So . . . think about it. And give us a call.

Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, May 1995.

Read this article in the original newspaper issue.