Dec 10, 2017 2 min read

I was coming through California the other day and I stopped at Rotary Park, once an area for partygoers. It is a scenic area now for bird lovers, walkers, runners and those seeking a quiet day.

A clearing of invasive Johnson grass and overgrowth had been removed to better see the beautiful Pike Run Creek which had been recently restored by a team of workers and volunteers. What a remarkable change to the area. I admired the gazebo and unique large clock in the park, and then drove slowly through the town, taking in what had changed in the 30 years since I lived in nearby Coal Center.

Main Street has elegant black lampposts, new buildings, breathtaking architecture and fountains at California University of Pennsylvania. The greatest asset to the area is the Monongahela River, located right next door to Main Street. The river is the true heart of the town.

I would have loved to have seen a mural or two. A town without art is a town without expression, but I was very happy to see the unique coloring boards that were posted on wood for people to color their stress away.

California is much more attractive than it used to be. There is always more that a town can do to make itself more beautiful. We all want brand new houses, good-paying jobs, grocery stores, booming business districts and family areas, but the reality is every town is not going to bloom, and maybe some never will again. But we have every right to want an ideal town.

I have visited many small towns over the years, and hear residents complain they are suffering or their community is a lost cause. We can’t blame a few people for that when we are all part of the fabric of a place, and we can each make a huge impact on helping obtain the changes we want to see. At least we can achieve healthier and more scenic communities, with more things to do.

Lisa Scherer

Marianna