There is this place

that does not consist of race.

Where we care about our sea

that is not full of debris.

Where there is understanding

in everything being demanding.

Where we are not concern

but eager to learn.

Where we are the changers

and not the strangers.

Where buses do not pollute

and cars are at a mute.

This is a place for me

where we all ought to be.

Damien Newton from LA Streetsblog announced a Parking Day Ride on the blog on July 27th, 09. Park(ing) Day LA is an annual event in which people ‘rent’ parking spots throughout the city and create open space and temporary parks. The 2009 day will take place on Friday, Sept 18th. The Park(ing) Day LA Website explains something all Angelinos know too well:

Los Angeles significantly lacks adequate & accessible open space, urban parks, plazas and civic centers.

On Park(ing) Day,  LA residents will see how much space we use for our cars instead of for recreational areas like parks that could promote physical and community health and reduce heat island and global warming effects, reminding us of the impact that our car addiction has on our environmental and social welfare.

Please consider joining Damien Newton on Sept. 18th – more people, more impact! If you would like to create an open space, click here for instructions, and spread the word about Park(ing) Day LA!

I-5 Freeway

The American Academy of Pediatrics released a policy statement about how children’s health is influenced by the built environment:

An estimated 32% of American children are overweight, and physical inactivity contributes to this high prevalence of overweight. This policy statement highlights how the built environment of a community affects children’s opportunities for physical activity. Neighborhoods and communities can provide opportunities for recreational physical activity with parks and open spaces, and policies must support this capacity.

It’s great to see doctors supporting the need for more safe, accessible parks.

[via Streetsblog]