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Bridging the Gap Between Recognition and Reality: Turning Symbolism into True Progress

Updated: Feb 6

Lake Como’s 2023 Neighborhood of the Year Award from the City of Fort Worth and Neighborhoods USA (NUSA) is a shining moment for our community—a recognition of social revitalization and neighborly pride. Yet, as I stand in front of one of the award signs at 5700 Curzon, I can’t help but feel the dissonance between what the sign proclaims and what surrounds it. Overgrown weeds, code violations, and a community still battling long-standing challenges highlight the gap between recognition and reality.

It’s a bittersweet contradiction. On one hand, the award is a testament to our community’s potential. On the other, it’s a stark reminder of the work left to be done. But, why am I the only one who sees this disconnect?




The Source of the Disconnect


Symbolism vs. Reality

For many, the sign and award represent a long-overdue acknowledgment of Lake Como’s resilience. The Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) views it as a victory, a public symbol of progress. But symbolism without substance risks becoming an empty gesture. A sign cannot mask the sight of unkept lots, broken fences, and the lingering presence of crime.


An Awareness Gap

Some may not see the visible issues—because they’ve lived alongside them for so long that these problems have faded into the background. Others may compartmentalize, viewing the award as separate from the community’s physical state, focusing solely on its intent: recognition for neighborly efforts.


Comfort with Small Wins

The signs offer a moment of celebration, a chance to feel proud of Lake Como amid decades of struggle. But settling for symbolic wins can inadvertently delay meaningful action. For those who have fought hard for progress, the idea of challenging the status quo might feel like risking the little progress that has been achieved.


Why I Feel Alone in This


A Critical Perspective

It’s not that others don’t care; it’s that my lens as a leader in Keep Lake Como Beautiful (KLCB) compels me to look deeper. I see the sign not just as a symbol of what we’ve achieved, but as a call to action for what we still need to accomplish.


Frustration with Inaction

The overgrown grass and junk cars near the sign aren’t minor oversights—they’re symptoms of barriers to progress that have held our neighborhood back for too long: neglect, institutional disinvestment, and a lack of accountability. The disconnect frustrates me because I know we’re capable of better.


A Commitment to Authentic Change

Through the On My Block (OMB) program, I’ve witnessed the power of residents uniting to take back their streets. My frustration stems from wanting every corner of Lake Como to reflect the pride and potential we know exists within this community—not just in award ceremonies, but in everyday life.


Why This Perspective Matters


An Opportunity for Growth

Recognizing the disconnect doesn’t diminish the award; it strengthens its meaning. The contrast between the sign’s message and the surrounding reality can serve as a catalyst for change, motivating us to align our physical environment with the recognition we’ve received.


Building True Pride

Real pride isn’t rooted in awards or symbols—it’s built on lived experiences. When we tackle crime, litter, and code violations, we’re creating a neighborhood where residents can genuinely feel proud.


Leadership in Action

As a community leader, I’m committed to bridging this gap—not with criticism, but with collaboration. Lake Como deserves to be a place where the award’s values are visible in every street, block, and corner.


Turning Frustration into Action


Here’s how we can move from recognition to reality:


1. Highlight the Disconnect Thoughtfully

We need to talk about this—not as a critique, but as a challenge to do better. Platforms like Office Hours: A Vlogcast by Keep Lake Como Beautiful will be a space to explore how recognition can inspire action instead of complacency.


2. Engage Stakeholders

I’ll invite neighborhood associations, city officials, and residents to take a closer look at the areas around the award signs. Together, we can address issues like vacant lots, code violations, and crime hotspots that detract from the neighborhood’s true potential.


3. Promote KLCB’s On My Block (OMB) Program

The OMB program is our blueprint for change. By uniting neighbors to tackle challenges block by block, we can create the kind of transformation that aligns with the spirit of the award.


Bridging the Gap Between Recognition and Reality


The sign at 5700 Curzon is more than a marker of recognition—it’s a mirror reflecting both our progress and our challenges. By acknowledging the disconnect and committing to action, we can transform Lake Como into a neighborhood where pride isn’t just written on a sign, but felt in every home, every street, and every heart.



Let’s make that vision a reality. 💜🦁💛


 

See It. Own It. Solve It. Do It—Together,

Shavina "Miss Peacock" Taylor 🦚

Founder and Program Director


Keep Lake Como Beautiful (KLCB)

 📞 682.382.1224




Get Involved:

  • SHARE your ideas or feedback in the comments or join Office Hours, KLCB's LIVE weekly vlog—we want to hear from you.

  • FOLLOW @KeepLakeComoBeautiful on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube. 

  • SUBSCRIBE to The Pride Newsletter for updates on community transformation and upcoming events.

  • ATTEND a KLCB event or workshop and get involved in local initiatives.

  • EXPLORE On My Block (OMB and help lead the charge for positive change.

  • SUPPORT US Keep Lake Como Beautiful (KLCB) operates under the governance and oversight of Proof of Life Community Development Corporation (PLCDC), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers and creating pathways for sustainable community progress.. As a registered Redevelopment Organization with the City of Fort Worth, KLCB plays an active role in shaping the future of Lake Como by aligning neighborhood revitalization efforts with city initiatives. DONATE TODAY!


We’re grateful to have you as part of the KLCB community. Together, we’re transforming Lake Como—one block, one step at a time. 💛🦁💜



Disclaimer: The views expressed in this blog are those of Keep Lake Como Beautiful (KLCB) and its contributors. All content is for informational purposes only and reflects KLCB's mission to empower and revitalize the community. Reproduction or distribution of this content is permitted with proper credit to KLCB. For questions about permissions or terms, please contact info@KeepLakeComoBeautiful.org.


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