New Neighbors Ann and Maya Garcia!

Neighbors gathered the first night Ann & Maya were in their new home to celebrate! From left to right: Susanna Kuo (also a new neighbor), Derrith & Michael Schmidt, Ann Garcia, Melba Hattie, Maya Garcia

I suspect everyone in Old Town neighborhood knows Ann Garcia and her daughter Maya. They've lived in our neighborhood for 29 years, renting a home on Durham Street with a gorgeous front and back yard. Ann's often out working in the yard or helping neighbors. Maya takes several walks around the neighborhood every day so she is well known too.

The big news is that Ann bought a home on Wilbur Street that she's remodeled and just moved into. She's also redesigned the front and back gardens as well and gives credit for inspiration to her friend and neighbor Rachael who has the gorgeous garden on Furnace Street between Church and Leonard Streets. Rachel's husband Rick is an architect and he also helped Ann during the inspections. Neighbor Melba has also done a lot to help Ann with her move. We're all so happy for Ann and Maya!

When Ann's offer was accepted, neighbor Barbara Carter ordered a beautiful and oh-so-delicious cake to celebrate!

We're also very happy to announce that Ann Garcia was nominated to the Old Town Neighborhood Association Board in December and also nominated and accepted the role as our Treasurer.

Laurie Carlson served on our Board for 15 years and was our Treasurer before she resigned this fall because of an upcoming move to Arizona. We're grateful for both these wonderful women and the excellent job Laurie did in transitioning all the information to Ann. Board VP Jim Perris (who is a retired CFO/COO) has also been helping out with working with the City on how funding for Neighborhood Association works.

Ann has been demonstrating her creative skills on our neighborhood kiosk at the corner of Durham and Wilbur. She changes out the information regularly. She took over this role from another board member Jeannie McGuire who managed the kiosk so thoughtfully for many years. You can thank Peggy Shaeffer for refreshing the planters in the spring/summer next to the bench and keeping water in the dog bowl. Also thanks to neighbors who donate books in our Little Library.

It's a wonderful village of neighbors and friends here in Old Town.