Linda Murray: West Side Story

Historic City News reader Linda Murray reminds residents that a new regulation, the “West Augustine Nuisance Ordinance”, is able to address complaints of blight, open-air drug sales, loitering, and unclaimed or unchained animals, through an anonymous complaint line.

Code enforcement actions like these are complaint driven. This is not about “snitching”, but about standing up for what is right and just for everyone. Keep in mind that change starts at home. If West Augustine is to see improvement, then we, the residents, must take the first steps — call 904-209-0734 to report violations that you see.

The monthly King Street Prayer Walk will be held on May 26; beginning at 9:00 a.m. at Chase Funeral Home and ending at Collier Blocker Park. The prayer focus includes revitalization, economic development, schools, neighborhood safety and stabilization of West King Street. Improvements in water and sewer services and a better environment for the children and adults are being prayed for during this walk. This event is sponsored by Pastors United and will be held on the 4th Saturday of each month. Transportation will be provided from Collier Blocker Puryear Park back to Chase Funeral Home.

Gail Blattenberger of Princeton NJ came to St Augustine for a six-week tutorial program to teach mathematics to black students; but she became the victim of an attempted firebombing. Forty-seven years later, this Smith College student will return to be honored by the 40th ACCORD. On July 2 the sixth Annual Freedom Trail Luncheon will be held at the historic Ponce De Leon Dining Hall on the campus of Flagler College. For more information and tickets, call Audrey Willis at 829-3996.

And, when you are in town, check out the Black Heritage Xperience (BHX); specializing in unique, enriching journeys through the African Americans in St Johns County, being introduced to the community on May 20th at the Lincolnville Music Festival. This event is being held at Eddie Vickers Park behind the Willie Galimore Center on South Riberia Street.