Interview with Rochester Brown, September 25, 2021

Hi. My name is Morgan, and your name is?

Hi, Rochester Brown.

Nice to meet you.

Likewise.

So could you tell me your? Well, you already know your name, could you tell me a little bit about your relationship with the neighborhood of Petworth.

Well, I live on Shepherd Street, the 900 block. We are probably the eighth eldest family of the eldest in the neighborhood. And now we have so many new neighbors. Our eldest, in the neighborhood was a hundred and three. And 80 and 90 and it's dwindling down from there.

Yeah, looking back, what have been some memorable celebrations in the neighborhood?

Block parties, small birthday parties, small gatherings birthdays for the seniors, especially. Barbecues and welcoming the new neighbors.

Has the way you celebrate or other people celebrated in Petworth changed over time?

Yes, it has. There are some who want to be neighbors and some who don't. So they're kind of leery about how to celebrate or if they want to extend themselves.

In ten years, what do you want celebration in Petworth to look like?

More blocks, more people, and without mess,

Do you have anything else you want to add? Any other insights.

I'd like everyone to stay safe. Be responsible for themselves. Look out for their neighbors and their loved ones and stop BSing with this Health crisis.

Thank you so much!

Thank you Morgan. It's been a pleasure.

Nice to meet you.

Likewise.