| Updated: 3/06 9:11 am |
Published: 3/05 10:19 pm
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Marianna Lish knows her place.
"I belong here,” said Lish. “The criminals don't."
Lish also knows how to get your attention. Small in stature, Lish, her fiery red hair, and her husband, Michael make up for size by using whatever is handy. Lately, she’s used signs and a bullhorn.
"Complaining is one thing, doing is another,” said Lish.
Three years ago she had already done enough to get 20 neighbors to join her at a community center. She named the group Turley Alliance Against Crime. They'd talk about what they'd seen around the neighborhood, make suggestions and share fears.
"The juveniles pretty much own Turley," said Lish.
Seems fear killed participation. Anymore, she and her husband are the only two active members.
They’re active online through the crime group's Facebook page. Still few speak up, or feel comfortable dialing 911. Lish is the exception.
"I mean if you want to live as a victim then disregard this. I don't want to be a victim," said Lish.
They don't even feel comfortable leaving a few signs and markers unmanned. A personal run in with danger made them paranoid.
"My husband and I have been face-to-face with criminals,” said Lish.
Someone broke in, and refused to leave.
"So my husband had to shoot him," said Lish.
The gun has stayed with him ever since. If only he could say the same for neighbors.
