Movin' to the Barrio..

Ramcharger, i read em all, i mean the post and this has inspired me to voice and share with all some of my vast wisdom. Sounds good already don't it?. About the neighborhood. Before you move in or commit to the rental of the place take your dog over in the area and take him for a walk and just simply shoot the bull with the locals you meet as you pass them on the street. Talk fishing, cars, favorite beer. You get my drift and see whats out there. Talk to the young kids, 10 to 16 and by all means shake their hand when you introduce yourself and if they are small or short ,which ever fits, squat down so as to be on their level. Compliment them on an issue of maybe their appearance. Just look ,you'll find something that is worthy of discussion. I've thought about getting involved in the Big Brother program in my area so as to help the younger people out that might otherwise become one of the ornery type we all dislike. We have in our area a program called "CASA", Court Appointed Special Advocate, to assist the courts as a mediator for young kids that are in the court system because of an abuse situation or foster program. This is a good thing but as for now i have had to opt out because the courts say you cannot get attached. If i can't put my heart in it i'm of virtually no use. I get in whole hog with money, time and all other rescorces. I have been blessed in many ways and i feel much of this has come because i have never felt that i am better than you and am always willing to help when i can no matter how small the help my seem. It may only be GOOD advice. I would like nothing more than to have a young guy or gal that would show a little interest in a mopar to help out in the shop and so as to show my gratitude and to help put a kid on the right track i'd let em pick out a car in the "Field of Dreams" and drag it in and help em fix it up and get her on the road. That's just how i am. Keep an eye out for needs such as in the winter time i always notice a kid in need of a coat. He won't need one long if i see it. If you see a need and don't have the funds, get hold of me and we'll take car of that problem. Ramcharger, there maybe SOMEONE placing you in that situation for a reason. You never know what impact you are going to have on someones life wheather it be for the good or bad. That's the decission you'll have to make. Listen to the song "Takin It To The Streets" Doobie Brothers.
I've found in the right situation a BBQ grill and a pack of hot dogs around a bunch of kids in the front yard can go along ways in finding more allies than a man could ever want. I'm with Fastback on this one. The landlord seems like he's wanting a good renter and is willing to do his part. I think you will work out ok in that situation when you use your wisdom. By the way, that's a greyhound on steroids. Hope i have helped. Just remember, you're one of the good guys looking for more good guys.