Julie Dent

At that time, in the early 1970’s, people still cleaned in front of their homes and buildings. If an adult in the community saw you doing something wrong, as simple as sitting on your next door friend’s garbage can, you were firmly asked not to do so in fear that you would damage the garbage can! This behavior was shared with your parents for reinforcement.

Until the “all hands fire” of 1977 and the “black-out of 1977.” people were crying and holding on to each other! I recall my late and great mother Elaine King and other community leaders and residents trying to help the families.

So many, many, many people lost their homes! They lost everything, but there was hope… they still had each other. 

I am so pleased and proud to say because of my mother Elaine King, I do understand what it means to love and care about one’s community! I understand what giving back means.