Conundrum: neighborhood associations are expected to be reflective of the neighbors they serve, but given the diversity of residents, is the objective actually achievable? Answer: not fully, but the expectation can be approximated through a variety of means, one of which is the distribution of a broadly inclusive, purposefully eclectic newsletter, with content and ambience that ring true for the residents. And while there’s no substitute for active participation at general meetings and volunteerism in neighborhood projects, neighbor involvement via newsletter—be it as a reader or contributor—has one distinct advantage: no need to schlep yourself from home!
A few months ago I got a phone call from a former Beaumont-Wilshire resident telling me how much he used to look forward to reading our newsletter from the comfort of his easy chair before moving to Cully. He asked if it would be possible to have the newsletter delivered to his new residence. I responded by directing him to the “Newsletter” link on the BWNA Web site (www.bwna.us) which has access to the color version of each issue and usually is posted a week ahead of hard copy distribution to residences and businesses. He thanked me for the advice, but said that he could no longer use a computer due to a debilitating disease that necessitated his move in the first place. Now dependent on Social Security disability, his new home is an assisted living facility several blocks outside the B-W boundary. In the end, I decided to hand-deliver a copy of the color version to his Cully residence and have continued to do so. It’s a small joy for him and a heartening gratification for our team.
The hope is that each issue of our newsletter will resonate in some way with a wide array of residents. It may be the insights provided on local issues, information about BWNA-sponsored events, opportunities for community volunteer work, human-interest stories—pretty much anything of relevance and interest to those who call Beaumont-Wilshire home. To that end, we welcome your suggestions for topics and new features (e.g., our series on neighborhood gardens and gardeners and, beginning this issue, a focus on businesses that keep us afloat with their ads).
Finally, this newsletter is only as viable as the neighbors who volunteer their time to help produce and distribute it, and right now our greatest need is for additional reporter-writers. If you think you can help, step up to the plate with an email to me at editor@bwna.us. It’s an every-other-month commitment that will go a long way to keeping this newsletter a neighborhood easy chair favorite. Thanks.