By Annie Eichman | LIRA News

Finally, the sun has found its way back to us and the drought is over … at least that’s what we’re hearing.

Luckily, there was no rain at our latest LIRA general meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 25. We had a terrific turnout that almost filled the room.

All three of our guest speakers, Herb Johnson, Deacon Jim Vargas and Stacie Spector, along with San Diego Police Department Lt. Adam Sharki, did terrific jobs informing us, listening to us and providing us with action steps over the two hours they were with us.

I, for one, left with a much better understanding of how the Rescue Mission, Father Joe’s Villages and myriad of other facilities work to help get the Homeless off the streets and the role we play in the equation.

Yes, we need to be respectful and cautious when we’re out and about, but we are not to give out money or food to the homeless.

It enables them and they are less likely to go to one of the many facilities available to them that can provide long-term help.

I have greater respect for our Police Department, how the system works and my responsibilities as a tax-paying citizen.

A big “thank you” to Ed Franqui, a Little Italy resident who was at the meeting. He not only took great notes, he also posted them on Nextdoor.com. Check them out.

The list of councilmembers in the Central Division Resource Phone List Directory has not been updated. Make sure you make these replacements:

Todd Gloria with Chris Ward ([email protected]); Sherri Lightner with Barbara Bry ([email protected]); and Marti Emerald with Georgette Gomez ([email protected]).

Thinking ahead: Ferragosto is scheduled for Aug. 19. You can save money on the cost of tickets if you purchase them now. Ferragosto is Little Italy’s night to shine. And this year’s theme, “The Wild West” will shine brighter than ever before with all kinds of fun and food, dancing and cash jackpots, raffles and a drawing for a trip to Italy!

Proceeds benefit Our Lady and the Rosary Church, Washington Elementary School and the Little Italy Association. Check out ferragosto.org for all the details and take advantage of the savings.

—Annie Eichman is the president of the Little Italy Resident’s Association. Reach her at [email protected].