Before going to the inbox, here are a couple of "in-case-you-missed-it" items:
Editorial cartoonist Rob Rogers summarized the Pitt report on racial disparities in Pittsburgh with a single image yesterday.
A young Homewood artist named Kyle Holbrook is working on a project that encompasses a big chunk of the city and will be viewed by countless thousands of people. Colleague Ann Belser wrote about Holbrook here.
And here is some of what you have to say:
I knew when I bought the home in the 'hood last year, it was one of the boldest moves of my young life. For a white family to move to Homewood, I can only imagine the talk behind closed doors. I truly believe with everything that I have that Homewood will once again shine. I am doing my part in rennovations, upkeep, common sense, respect and most of all responsibility. I am looking forward to the day where I can let my children play outside, and walk leisurely down the streets to chat with strangers. Let's all come together as one community and get it together, and show pride for a once beautiful haven. -- Veronica of Homewood
It would be nice if there was equal opportunities for our young youth and graduates especially at these construction sites all over pittsburgh. why do i only see white faces, no minorites? it's sad every once in a while in the "hood" i'll see one or two but come on now, help our young people get ahead. they need jobs. i'm postitively sure that our children would rather be working if they had that opportunity than to be out there in them streets like nobody gives a damn -- Mrs. Neika L. Lunsford-Williams, Sheraden
I would like to respond to the black man in a suit. When I see any man in a suit it shows me that he is a good dresser and he has some type of style. but the inside most definitely, must match the outside. Just because he has a suit on does not mean he does not have any character defects. just remember someone can get robbed from a man with a flower in his lapel. When a black man in a suit is on the job he probably is an intelligent man who is providing for his family. -- Natalie Horton of Swissvale
Veronica's email inspires this question for Homewood ex-patriates, those who have moved out and moved on, who say, "Part of me wishes I could return home to Homewood."
What would it take?
More precisely, what would need to happen in Homewood in order for you to return to Homewood?
Understand, the question is not about what would need to happen in your life. Obviously, you would need to get a job in Pittsburgh and do all of the stuff that goes with moving. The question is about the neighborhood.
What changes in Homewood would bring you back?
Of course, the first thing most people will say is something like, "A big reduction in the crime rate." So let's assume that there has been a dramatic drop in the use of both drugs and guns and that Homewood's crime rate is similar to, say, Shadyside's.
What else would it take?
Would there need to be more new housing? More commercial development?
Would you need to hear about unique and exciting programs in the schools?
What if you saw that property values were rising?
Would you need to see other people returning to Homewood, so that you feel like you are part of a trend?
What would it take?
First Published: July 24, 2007, 7:45 p.m.
