Charlotte, NC

That shot, taken from a Channel 9 chopper, is of a place that’s become all to familiar with our police. Normally, they go there in response to complaints, suspected drug use of domestic violence.
Unfortunately, this morning they were called for the worst of reasons: Four people were found slain in the TreeTop Apartments in south Charlotte.
Now, I’m not gonna sound like a news reporter and give all the details (you can find that on WSOC’s site). But what I am wonderin’ about is … whatever happened to the Neighborhood Watch they once had there?
Years ago, a friend of mine (who lived there) said his neighbors were tryin’ to get one established, and, from what I understood, it was working for awhile. I know that, in many instances, neighbors become fearful of retaliation if they “blow the whistle” on a crime or violent outburst.

And that’s something else that strikes a nerve: In apartment living, there’s more of an inclination toward emotional outburst than in a standard home … and that includes anger! Some studies suggest that it’s due to cramped conditions (especially if there are more than two tenants in a unit), mundane surroundings (face it … ya just don’t have the lovely yards that many houses do) and neighbors who are thisclose to you at all times.

So how do we remedy this anger/outburst situation? As you know, this Relic’s been around the US and our northern neighbors and have picked up a few big hints that many complexes are now using:

• First, consider monthly meetings of management and tenants (or at least the person whose name is on the contract!) to discuss issues … and how to solve them.
• Have a social service worker at the residents’ disposal, to mediate and monitor situations. Now, “social service” includes counselors and ministers as well as state monitors.
• If and when the police have to be called, they meet with the caller only via phone or off-site! That can alleviate the “fear” that a person may feel when he/she reports a crime.
• Consider hiring security patrols for the premises during the more dangerous hours (late night and, according to some researchers, 6 AM, 11 AM and 5 PM).

It doesn’t take much to make even the roughest areas of the Queen City safe again. It’s just a matter of caring enough to make it happen, right?

HORSING AROUND

I can’t think of many people who don’t like horseback riding. For years, I’d go to one of the local stables to ride on the fabulous four-footers (in fact, there was one that was an easy ride … until a bee stung his muzzle! Then, I swear, even Roy Rogers couldn’t've lassoed him! I didn’t worry about that, though … seein’ as I was on the ground way back where he took off. I’d, ummm … welllll, I was feelin’ a little adventurous and … uh, decided to ride him bareback!).

Of course, saddles are important tack to use when riding … and it’s gotta be one that’s comfortable for both you and your horse! Whether it’s for showjumping, close-contact or for kids, the style and contour of the saddle is vital to a good ride!
Now, the best place to find the right saddle for you is just a click away (I’ll have it for ya in a moment). You’ll get the best service and savings for safely saddlin’ up this spring (and summer) … and learn more about the various designs and tack at the same time … by clicking on the best spot for saddles!
While you’re here, why not click on that link now? It’s the best way to comfortably ride into the sunset … or any other time … with your favorite horse!