“Dont push me, cause Im close to the edge, Im trying not to lose my head, Its like a jungle sometimes, it makes me wonder how I keep from going under” - Grrandmaster Flash in “The Message”

I was over at some apartments in Regency Park (which is north of Natomas Park) off Zurlo Way yesterday evening. These are generally low income apartments, and I believe most are Section 8 (like almost all the apartments Fargo and company have piled in North Natomas). There have been a lot of problems here. When I lived in Regency Park there was a ghetto bird hovering over them at least once a week. There was a home invasion there several days ago. What I saw tonight though really got my eyebrows up..

When I pulled into the complex earlier tonight I saw a crowd of kids in the parking lot, and rap music was playing loudly. Kids were throwing a football (which hit my car! and generally having fun. It looked like a block party. There was a huge sign that said “FLIPT” across the front door of the clubhouse . Turns out Gateway Fellowship church in Natomas is hosting their youth group (called FLIPT) at this complex for the next several weeks. They actually took their group around this complex door to door and passed out fliers a week ago to pre-hype the event. And I’m telling you, it was all good in the hood! These kids were THRILLED to “have company.” I could see it in their eyes. Can you imagine if the mayor or council person Tretheway ever came out and talked to these kids? Ok, Neither can I.. (but I can definitely see KJ out there)..

Gateway’s presence where it is needed most tonight was very inspiring to see; although in my opinion, it’s unfortunate citizens have to dedicate their own time and resources to keeping their neighborhoods safe. Sure, from a Christian standpoint one could argue the prevalence of low income housing in Natomas is a hidden blessing as it allows people with resources to spread the good news to those without (and I have promoted this exact ideology to those who have laughed at me for choosing to live here); but let’s face it, that doesn’t erase the fact that the value of my home will always be 20% less than those in other communities due to the public safety issues and lack of desperately needed infrastructure (like a police sub station). The silver lining can always be found in any scenario, but it doesn’t remove the fact that the cloud is hanging overhead. Quote me on that.

Regardless, rants aside, Gateway Fellowship is setting the bar in terms of community involvement and should be applauded heartily for their efforts in North Natomas.

If you have been reading since the start you may recall I stated something about this idea I had early on called GIJOESACRAMENTO. I have been meaning to get around to this but between family and blog and work and doing artwork for blogger friends(!!)–aw forget the excuses. Anyways, I have served as mentor and counseled at risk youth in the past, and I want to get something started in Nomas like Gateway Fellowship is doing, but more on the mono y mono big brother tip–with a nod to scripture-based mentorship (which is the only way in my opinion).

I need help with this.. especially from guys like myself with a lot of sports, coaching, mentoring, etc in their background that won’t back down or be intimidated. You know who you are. I was thinking we could hook up once a week for a minute and brainstorm, then map something out and look to the community for some assistance to go to ball games and things. I have a lot of ideas.

Here’s to people doing something for their communities. I think it’s safe to say we best NOT wait around for the city to help us any longer.

Much love to Gateway Fellowship Church for their work in the community tonight. Very inspiring.