[from David Jannarone]
Peron,
I’m not sure how we begin to pick up where you left off. We lost a commissioner, an activist, a role model, and a dear friend. Our community will not be the same without you. I never got the chance to thank you for everything. There is so much to say, I’m not sure where to begin.
I think about all the new people moving into the neighborhood. How so much has changed in the 6 years I’ve known you. How a lot of those new neighbors will never have the chance to meet you or understand how important you have been to the success of our community. And the positive changes are just beginning, we have a long way to go before we have coffee at the new Mocha Hut at the metro station, or a basketball game with the neighborhood kids at the new Raymond Rec. But we are on our way, and it wouldn’t be happening without you.
You embraced everyone in the community and accepted them with open arms, regardless of race, regardless of how long they lived in Petworth. You risked your life to get the drug dealers away from the kids at Raymond Rec. You were a role model for the kids and gave them options. From the fishing program to the football team to your tireless efforts to get a new Raymond Recreation Center for our neighborhood that would truly serve the kids. You always put the community first and set an example for us all.
I can’t help but think about who’s going to fill your many roles. Is it even possible? Who’s going to care about the kids the way you did? What would happen if all of us took your lead and were as dedicated to these kids the way you were? What if all of us in the neighborhood spent more time helping the people who need it, the way you did? How would that impact our neighborhood, our kids, our future? How much better off would everyone in the community be? I hope we all embrace what you stand for and honor you by doing more for our community.
Much love,
Dave
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