How long have you lived in your neighborhood?
I purchased a lot in 1978, and I have lived in Lakewood East since 1980, so I'm going on 46 years in December.
How did you get involved in your neighborhood?
I started participating in my homeowners association, in Lakewood East. It really took off after Katrina, because everyone was trying to figure out what we were going to do. We decided to come together and do everything we could to make Lakewood East what it was prior to Katrina. I was also a member of ENONAC for about 15 years and I am a graduate of Mayor’s Citizen Academy and also the Police Citizen Academy.
What do you love about your neighborhood?
Lakewood East is a great place to raise children, and when I initially moved here, my children were young. Also, I have great accessibility to the interstate.
What successes have you had in your neighborhood?
I was instrumental in establishing a taxing district in Lakewood East as one of the architects. I also keep my neighborhood signs cleaned and the surrounding grass cut. My neighbors and I also worked with the DOTD to get concrete barriers on I-10 Service Road shoulder from Morrison to around Franklin Ave.
What are you working on right now in your neighborhood?
For the last 10 years I go out on Tuesdays and pick up trash going along I-10 Service Road. Sometimes I have to report mattresses, tree branches and even sofas. I'm also in constant communication with the District E liaison arranging for trash pick ups along the service road.
Any words of advice for other neighborhood leaders and change-makers?
My advice is to just get involved, start now. Everyone who does a little bit makes things better.