Gorgona Neighborhood Watch Update
Progress continues in Gorgona to create a new neighborhood watch program – Vecinos Vigilantes. Led by Gorgona homeowner Jim Rizik, the group is in the process of establishing a board to coordinate and fundraise for the resources necessary to implement the Vecinos Vigilantes program. Additionally, Jim, along with the police, is reaching out to all Gorgona residents, not just the expats. On October 31st, the group held a meeting specifically for the local Panamanians at the community center in Gorgona. More than 20 locals attended, as well as five police officers, including Major Barsallo who had previously led the community meeting at LaRuina. According to Rizik, there are several Panamanians interested in serving on the board.
“The locals are very excited to have a combination of Panamanians and expats to create a joint effort for this project,” explains Rizik. “We’ve made some very positive progress in such a short period of time.”
Moving forward, on Wednesday, November 14 (5p.m.), another meeting is scheduled at the Gorgona community center with everyone invited, including police. Translators will be in attendance, as well as a representative from a local alarm company who will be able to discuss home security issues. Although only Gorgona residents can sit on the board, Rizik is welcoming residents who may not live in Gorgona.
“This is an opportunity for everyone in the area to take part,” he says. “We are actually hoping that residents from Coronado and surrounding areas can work with us to build a bigger and stronger neighborhood watch.”
The key issues to be addressed are the election of a board, potential fundraising opportunities, and other details of organizing the neighborhood watch.
Rizik would like people who are interested in sitting on the board, donating money, or who want to volunteer their time, to contact him directly. He’s already received interest from people and has had preliminary discussions from private parties who want to donate money to the cause.
Next Meeting
When: Wednesday, November 14
Time: 5pm
Where: Gorgona Community Centre (next to the medical clinic, near the football field and basketball courts)
Who: Everyone
Contact Jim Rizik
jwr.2001@msn.com
6590-3308
