Rhonda, it's been a while since I've sent you anything. I hope you and your family are doing well. I know this is a touchy subject for you and my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family on this issue. If more people had your energy and attention to this subject, our world would be a better place. The issue of youth violence stretches across so many spectrums of our society. From poverty to drugs to education and so on. I hope the gang violence initiative addresses the entire spectrum and not just one aspect. Like a starfish, there are many hands at play. By addressing only one hand, the rest of the creature is left untouched. I give credit to the mayor for addressing the issue, however until the entire issue is addressed, I fear we will continue to go around in the circle we've been on for quite some time. It starts with the community and people like Rhonda who care enough about the issue to make it personal (although her story is personal which is unfortunate). I have my first child on the way and I pray we can provide the tools for him to be a member of society and not one who takes from society as the gangs do to our communities. They are leaches that suck the good from communities. Rhonda, take care and continue your good work.

Actions will speak louder than words

manCaveman, what are the flaws?

So the City gets nothing out of it? If these young professionals use this as "resume padding" and the City get some ideas and help accomplishing those things listed, how is that bad? Isn't it a win-win scenario if that happens?

The mayor has open office hours, email, phone, a mailing address, etc. If locals want to talk to the mayor, there are plenty of ways to do so. Getting "outsiders" point of views isn't necessarily a bad thing. It is easy to get caught up inside of our own box. People from other areas may bring fresh ideas and ways of thinking to get some thiings done.