Kirkwood rallies one week after resident shot mowing lawn

By Christian Boone

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

For the first time in a week, Kirkwood’s Bessie Branham Park buzzed with activity.

Last Friday, less than a block away, a homeowner was robbed and shot three times while mowing his lawn. Since then, the park has been eerily quiet  – a significant blow to a community that takes pride in its resilience.

“It’s shaken this community to its core,” said Mike Shelton, vice president of the Kirkwood Neighbor’s Organization. “It’s made me think twice about doing things I used to take for granted.”

Resident Maria Azuri, worried about the psychological impact of the shooting, quickly organized a community response. More than 200 of her neighbors attended Friday’s rally, along with mayoral candidates Lisa Borders, Mary Norwood and Jesse Spikes.

It was not an unfamiliar scene – Atlantans shaken by yet another sensational crime. But Kirkwood residents made it clear they weren’t going to accept any stock answers.

“We’re going to be watching,” Azuri repeatedly told the crowd. “It’s no longer an option to guillotine off police officers and firefighters and other essential city services.”

And for those seeking to replace Mayor Shirley Franklin, touting statistics that indicate a decrease in violent crime is also seemingly no longer an option.

“People are afraid, and this is unacceptable,” Norwood said. “This city is broken, and we need to fix it.”

Touting her endorsement by the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Borders said criminals have capitalized on the city’s cuts to public safety.

“Communication has clearly been an issue,” she said when asked if city leaders have responded adequately to their constituents’ concerns. “People are outraged, and they have every right to be.”

Spikes noted his lack of governmental experience, saying the city needs someone from outside the municipal establishment.

“Yes, we will be watching,” he said, borrowing what became the rally’s theme.

Candidate Kasim Reed was also invited but did not attend, organizers say.

Meanwhile, Kirkwood residents plan a literal spin on grass roots mobilization.

“Tomorrow I’ll be cutting my grass, and I hope all of you will too,” Azuri said to loud cheers.

Their seriously wounded neighbor, Kenneth Hagen, remains in intensive care at Grady Memorial Hospital. Those responsible for putting him there remain at large.