Hello Downey,

Now that school is back in session, it is essential to remember all back-to-school safety precautions. While our schools continue to take preventive measures against COVID-19, we must also do our part to keep our kids safe. With more students returning to on-campus learning, children will be walking on our city streets, and keeping their safety in mind should be our top priority. Here are a few reminders.

• Yellow flashing lights on a school bus mean the bus is slowing down and getting ready to pull over to the side. Children are waiting to get on the bus, or parents are waiting to pick up their children.

• Red flashing lights mean to stop and wait for at least 20 feet behind the bus because children are getting on or off the school bus.

• When a bus is present, always watch for children, especially in the morning or mid-afternoon.

• It is important to be alert when backing out of a driveway, or driving through residential streets, school zones, and bus stops.

• Besides walking, children may be on their bicycles, scooters, or skateboards to travel to school.

• Parents should talk to their children about safety and remind them to be aware of their surroundings when traveling to school. Everyone should watch the road, not their phones.

While we all continue getting used to the new normal, our kids continue to be resilient and make strides in school. We are responsible for keeping them safe outside of school by being alert and driving responsibly.

Local organization Gangs Out Of Downey once again demonstrated their undying support for our community. They graciously donated to the City and Downey Unified School District with a grant for $12,500 to provide funding for a school resource officer at Columbus High School. Their generosity and commitment to our city’s youth are examples of what continues to make Downey great. Thank you to all the members and volunteers of G.O.O.D. for all they do to keep our children safe.

Our local shelter continues to be full of pets needing forever homes. Besides dogs and cats, SEAACA also has rabbits and birds available for adoption. To view all animals and for information about adopting a new friend, please visit seaaca.org.

The highly anticipated International Food and Music Festival is coming to Downtown Downey this September 10th. Join us for great food from local restaurants and live music on two stages. There will also be face painting, balloon artists, and a photo booth. The Downey City Library will host the Beyond the Book event on September 17th. This is the library’s annual celebration of all the fantastic resources they offer and the artists, makers, crafters, and creative explorers that make and enliven our city.

While summer is winding down, high temperatures remain. Older adults, children, and individuals who are sick or overweight are at greater risk from extreme heat.

To cool off, visit our newly remodeled Downey City Library to catch up on summer reading or check out a city laptop. The Barbara J. Riley Community and Senior Center also offer various programs and activities to participate in while getting to know your neighbors and making new friends. Or you can visit the Columbia Memorial Space Center.

For more information, please visit downeylibrary.org, downeyca.org, and columbiaspacescience.org.

For any questions, ideas, or concerns regarding our city please call my council colleagues and I at 562-904-7274 or email bpacheco@downeyca.org.

Stay safe, and most importantly, be kind to one another.

Blanca Pacheco
Mayor