Teens Against Graffiti joins fight against vandalism
4:06 p.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2008
"Very frustrating... Very frustrating."
That's how Central Park resident Don Gigous describes seeing what vandals have done to a neighborhood marker.
Gigous says, "It's being done by people who don't respect the property. I'm not sure what we can do about it,"
Now Keep America Beautiful is taking up the cause of graffiti removal. The initiative is called TAG or Teens against Graffiti. Director Philicia Mckee says it sends a strong message to vandals.
She says, "It's going to tell the other teens it's not acceptable to paint and make our community ugly."
Graffiti has been a major issue for Topeka neighborhoods and businesses this year.
McKee says, "I heard that there was one guy in code compliance that handles this in the police department, and I wanted to get him some help.
Central Park resident Darren Murray says cleanup crews have a big challenge ahead of them.
"People come in and they go through the neighborhood and pick up trash and the next day it's right back down there," he says.
Fred Martinez is with the Rolling Meadows Neighborhood Association and Citizens Patrol Coalition. He says both organizations are stepping up with donations of money and supplies.
"If you've got a bunch of youth out there that want to volunteer to help us do this, the best way to do this is give them the equipment that they need," says Martinez.
He would like others give of their time and money.
"Any organizations, individuals...We don't care if you donate $5, $10," says Martinez.
Teens Against Graffiti will meet Saturday, October 4th from 1-5 p.m. at the Law Enforcement Center.
The event is not just for teens. If you'd like to get involved, get your contact information here.
Post a comment
(Requires free registration.)