Oak Park Community Center Drug Free Zone

I spent a part of Saturday knocking on doors and talking to my neighbors about starting a neighborhood watch group. The response was overwelmingly positive! I collected 26 names, addresses, and phone numbers of those that were interested in participating. In fact, there was only one neighbor I talked to that wasn't interested.

Hopefully many of those I talked to will also attend our next meeting March 10th. I guess this is what grass roots organizing is all about. How many neighbors will you talk to before our next meeting?

Neighborhood Watch signs

I have recieved an order form for Neighborhood Watch signs to post in our neighborhood. If you would like one posted near your home post a message and the location to be considered.

Caring Neighborhoods

At the last Leadership meeting Tracey Gray who is the program coordinator did an overview of Caring Neighborhoods Program. This program ties in nicely and should be incorporated with Neighborhood Watch groups.

Oftentimes, a little help with simple daily tasks such as offering a ride to the grocery store or visiting a lonely senior can mean the difference between an older person remaining in the community or moving from their long-term home.
Caring Neighborhoods Program help to organize neighbors?’ efforts to reach out to neighborhood seniors while staying informed of programs and services available to older adults.

For more information go to www.caringneighborhoods.org

Cranston Way Neighborhood Watch

Hello,
Tonight (March 21) at 7:00 pm, we will be having our first Neighborhood Watch meeting. I have contacted 90% of the street and about 80% say they are coming to the meeting. That's about 16 people. I left a message for Holly Magana so that she knew we were having it, but it was at the last minute and I don't think she will have time to respond.
Matthew - we have been seeing a very sharp increase in auto break-ins and backyard burglaries in our neighborhood. Three residents have had cars broken into recently, and I had someone break in to my back yard last week. They broke the lock on my gate and stole a mower and supplies from my shed. Residents of Stratford have had big potted trees stolen from porches and items taken from garages. One neighbor had his back room completely emptied by burglars. Residents of Cromwell have had fountains and lawn decorations stolen.
The major concern is that some residents know who the culprits are. They belong to the Norteno's and live nearby. Neighbors have seen them breaking in, but have been threatened, so they have not reported it to the police. Norteno tagging has been increasing in the area. This is where we hope Holly can help.
Ron - If you or Matthew have any advice to pass on to us, we'd appreciate it. Many residents are vowing to be at the next Cabrillo N. A. meeting.
If either of you can attend tonight, or send a representative, that would be great. I realize what short notice this is. The address is 7382 Cranston Way (house with the split-rail fence).
Sorry for such a long email. I'll let you know what becomes of our meeting.
Tim Smith