I heart Candler Park-JoJo Ross

I love Candler Park and I feel most people living here and reading this feel the same way. I think of Candler Park as a haven between "big city" livin' and the small town you watched on Leave it to Beaver. Downtown Little Five Points keeps us funky and fresh (and from saying things like "Golly!") but just a few blocks off the busy square are the patterned sidewalks, stoic trees, and old homes that are signatures of our neighborhood. Even more of a trademark is our beautiful Candler Park on McClendon Avenue.

I am fortunate enough to make it to the park about 5 days a week and while spending time there I started wondering what ways I could get involved in keeping it in its best condition and ensuring it remains a safe place for our community. I contacted Tom Painter, CPNO Environment Officer, and he patiently listened to my long list of ideas for the park. He offered his ideas and then came his question "Well, what do our neighbors think is important for our park?" Tom, you are so good. I proposed we reinvigorate the Friends of Candler Park.

The Friends of Candler Park is an organization aimed at caring for and promoting the use of Candler Park. In recent history, there have been clean ups organized with little attendance and I wonder if it's because people don't think our park needs any cleaning up. We are lucky enough to be living in a time when Candler Park is safe, not heavily inhabited at night, and not used as a general dumping ground. That being said, it is not without needing care. There is a need for not only garbage clean up, but also for landscaping. We need to ensure our park remains one that discourages illegal behavior and remains as safe as possible. I invite all of you to take ownership of our park, make it your backyard and become involved in its care and advocacy. Join us in deciding what the top priorities for the Friends of Candler Park should be Thursday January 14th 7pm at Java Vino.