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Updated: 7:23 PM Jul 15, 2009
New Neighborhood Association Fights Back
Fighting crime, cleaning trash, building a safer neighborhood one step at a time -- that's what folks in one tiny community are doing.
Posted: 6:30 PM Jul 15, 2009Reporter: Carrie Cline Email Address: carrie.cline@wsaz.com |
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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Fighting crime, cleaning trash, building a safer neighborhood one step at a time -- that's what folks in one tiny community are doing.
They didn't belong to one of Huntington's larger neighborhood associations, so they created their own. It was the brainchild of one woman who said enough -- and rallied her neighbors to join the fight.
“It’s so nice to be able to walk down the alley and not have to worry about trash or flies,” Mary Clayborn said.
She has herself to thank for the newfound peace and community pride. Clayborn is a one-woman change machine and she has big plans.
“It’s nice to see people taking pride and trying again. They think about it and realize they can make a difference” she said.
Talk to her for just five minutes and you're inspired to do something to improve your surroundings. It wasn't that long ago that drugs and trash were overrunning the neighborhood, which is sandwiched between Cabell Huntington Hospital and Spring Hill Elementary School. So, in April, the 32-year-resident decided it was time to start the Spring Hill Neighborhood Association.
“It’s important to me to preserve that community connection and it’s important to me that the children feel safe,” Clayborn said.
“The law can’t do everything. If we want to take back our neighborhoods, we have to pitch in,” fellow resident Merrille Harrison said.
“The neighbor boy damaged my car. I called the law on him and now he’s awaiting a court date,” she added.
Clayborn admits it’s a process that takes one step at a time. First, she’s inspired others to clean up. A junior neighborhood association of children with litter sticks help.
She's also spearheaded new signs in the neighborhood -- warning of children playing and posting slower speed limits. The evidence is there -- manicured lawns, reduced public criminal activity and the quiet, peaceful neighborhood Clayborn remembers.
“People are painting their houses now, “ she said.
It’s a place where families can live and grow without worry, thanks to a renewed sense of community ownership.
Latest Comments
my children went to spring hill elementary that neighborhood is SCAAARY to say the least!! good luck and god bless
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Thank you, thank you, thank you. If only one person follows in your footsteps it will make a difference.
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Mary is a remarkable person.I Recently moved to huntington with my mentally challenged son. After a couple months i wasn't sure about my move until i met Mary. She helped me find a house, get me in it and made sure my son and i was ok. Not once did she ask anything in return. She is an inspiration. Everyday she is doing something to help others not because she has too but because she wants too. We love you Mary.
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