Saturday morning, February 25, 2017, a dozen mindfulness walkers met at Wesley Methodist Church at Barstow & 6th, seeing the large community garden and Boys & Girls club and new cool playground. Walkers strolled through El Dorado Park neighborhood, with newly renovated apartments, with personal gardens tucked into courtyards and narrow strips. Walkers passed Wolters Elementary and and then headed north of Barstow through Casa Del Rey Apartments, across the lush green Robinson Park, along the fence of Robinson Elementary, and then across the busy campus of Hoover High School.
Garden plots were tucked into small spaces. Rhubarb, cilantro, citrus, and vegetables. Walkers talked about the many inspirational spots on this walk – signs of people living, out and about, living life. Walkers who feel overwhelmed by technology noticed an absence of technology with people working in yards, washing cars, playing in parks, pushing strollers.
One walker talked about living in El Dorado Park apartments in his college days 20 years ago. He recalled that there were not fences back then like there are now. One walker lived in Casa Del Rey aparments 30 years ago and her father managed the complex. Walking through the entrance from Barstow was a new experience, and reminded her of the bygone era.
Walkers commented on how many people were out in these neighborhoods. There was a vibrancy and hopefulness that people are getting on with their lives even in the midst of so much bad news.
Hoover High school was a wonderful surprise for walkers who had not been on the campus – renovated facilities, fabulous aquatic center, impressive gym and sports facilities, new buildings…. The campus was busy with families and student athletes for a boys basketball tournament. A group of high school girls were practicing for an upcoming flag football game.
Walkers met Ali and Patrick who told us the story of the community garden at Barstow & 6th. Neighborhood residents can rent a plot for $4 per month. Ali and Patrick are involved in the El Dorado Park neighborhood revitalization efforts.
I enjoyed this walk. It was interesting seeing the priorities of families living around the area. Whether it be a small piece of land to grow food, solar panels, or just getting by with having enough to survive! Tami
Facebook photo album: https://www.facebook.com/pg/fresnomindfulnesswalks/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1915168255436586
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