Neighbors are invited for a walk this evening with the Melrose Village Neighborhood Alliance. Organized by local resident Shelby Blecker, the walks have been gaining more walkers each week.
“We had a fabulous turnout last week with 15 total people walking, including Serapia Kim from the Mayor’s Office, Jarrett Thompson from Paul Koretz’s office, and Zach Sokoloff from TVC2050. The conversations were great and never stopped!” Blecker told the Buzz.
“We walked for about 70 minutes with our Senior Lead Officer Dantzler and his partner, who had their share of questions and answers for us too,” said Blecker. “We all got a chance to learn from Office Dantzler on just exactly what constitutes jay-walking and what does not. Those that stayed with us to eat didn’t get home until almost 11 p.m.”
Tonight’s walk meets at the corner of Spaulding and Waring Avenues. The group usually starts walking by 6:30 p.m., so everyone is encouraged to arrive a few minutes early. Following the walk, those who want to stay go to a local restaurant for dinner. Tonight they are planning to meet at Ta-eem Grill, a local Kosher restaurant with outdoor dining.
“We will be spread out as much as possible,” said Blecker. Masks are optional.
The effort started after a spike in crime last year as way for residents to connect with LAPD and each other and promote  more vigilance among neighbors.
“Always something to discuss and something new to learn at these walks and it seems like we’re getting noticed in the neighborhood too!” said Blecker.
