There is nothing more important to me than spending time with my two daughters Ann and Leah. I would like to fully enjoy the local parks and playgrounds here  in the neighborhood. I quess I have been spoiled by growing up in a small town where you did not have to worry about shootings or gang activity. We have not had any problems, but I feel a little nervous walking the kids over to Gateway Park. You never know what can happen in just a few seconds.

I have been knocking on alot of doors and getting tremendous feedback from area residents. One factor  we all have in common is crime. There is alot of concern with burglary and drug traffic. Each area in the  Ward 11 has its own specific problems. It appears that alot of residents are in a lock down state of mind. We go in and secure our homes from the outside world, and stay in all night. I feel this way of living has to change if we are going to be successful at fighting crime. I have learned very quickly that the police are not going to solve the crime rates. We as residents must learn to defend our selves and our property if we do not want to be a victim. A few of my qualifications: BA in Management and Leadership from Judson University. Over 20 years experience owning a small business in Rockford. Ten years at my current address, and 25 years total living in Rockford. Founder and President of  The 4th Street Neighborhood Preservation Alliance.

Take a look at this old crack house. It had been left vacant for 13 years. With a lot of hard work and some help from the city, me and my wife Christina brought back to life a turn of the century jewel. I think alot of great homes need to be filled with families and concerned parents. I would like to see more abandoned properties given to people who can renovate them.
 

Next month we will highlight more exciting things that are going on in our neighborhood. Until then remember, it's not over when people have hope.