The Youngstown Kidd

Kudos per usual to Angie Schmitt for telling the stories that should be told. I have been drowning in work and extracurricular projects lately and thoroughly inadequately activizing. Yet ironman, Energizer Bunny, Phil “Mr. Defend Youngstown” Kidd keeps the faith through it all.

Local activist Phil Kidd is leading the charge to improve the historic park that once served as the focal point of one of the city’s wealthiest neighborhoods.

So far, Kidd has enlisted the help of Leadership Mahoning Valley, Treez Please, First Unitarian Church and Wick Neighbors. And the 28-year-old creator of the Defend Youngstown Web site has only begun his appeals for assistance.

Kidd hopes to convene the groups in mid-January to begin planning improvements and organizing a fund-raising campaign.

Initial plans include creating an urban garden, replacing brick entrance ways, mending park benches, and repairing the park’s now-defunct fountain. In addition, Kidd hopes to add landscaping, install playground equipment and secure donated artwork from local artists.

Though I’m flush with activities right now, if anyone is forming an admiration society devoted to Phil, sign me up for its Board.

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