Terry Maloy and Simon Bowler live at opposite ends on the sound wall. They kept watching transients slip in and out of the bushes at varies times of day. Tony Sedeno, our community gardener, reported picking up more litter in recent months. The community began trading similar stories. The WHCA board got involved. Cypress and jacaranda trees were ensnarled in agressive acacia branches. A plan of action was needed to discourage vagrants from increasing their numbers.

On St. Patrick's Day 15 neighbors arrived at 9:00 am carrying gloves, sheers, loppers, saws. They pulled green and black bins to the location.

17 green cans quickly filled with trimmings. 5 black cans swallowed clothing, bedding, copies of Baudelaire and Hemmingway, and empty booze bottles and takeout containers.

Thanks go to Terry Maloy, Simon Bowler, Michael Green, David Purdy, Bart Stevens, Kathy Russell, Tim Balzer, Debbie Belgum, John Gittelsohn, Greg Orson, Suna Kwak, Todd Manion, Brian Siberell, Bill Adelson.

Andy Barak brought Chick-fil-A sandwiches. Brian poured Starbucks coffee. Greg distribed bottled waters. No volunteer went hungry or thirsty. We also enjoyed each other's company.

Determined Michael Green above. Bart Stevens filled can after can and carted them to owners as far away as Watsonia.

Debbie, John, and Greg discuss next plan of attack.

Prior to the actual beautification event Louise Ferro, Susan Harmon, and Terry Maloy created a prototype. They exposed India Hawthorn and birds of paradise being choked by the acacia.

A world of difference. There are fewer places to hide. Whitley Heights is safer and cleaner.