Page 9 of Jobe

“Hell, that’s about as safe as you can get,” Vinny stated sarcastically, knowing that the typical deadbolt is nothing to someone who really wants entrance.

“So, Jennifer wanted to know if there was anything we could do to make the place more secure. But if we do cameras, I know she would want them to be like at her Elder Center. Something that could be monitored from here and then have security systems in place that would alert the police department.”

Tony nodded thoughtfully. “Are these girls still in danger from the gangs?”

“Probably,” Jobe added. “From what we’ve heard, you don’t leave gangs…at least not without a cost.”

“There’s more,” Gabe said. “Jennifer told me that the director said there had been some drive-bys. Non-violent, but was pissed nonetheless. They’ve called the cops but according to Jennifer, Mac’s not afraid to run out of the door with a baseball bat.”

“Fuck,” said the group collectively.

“Jesus, that’ll get his head smashed in real quick,” Vinny growled.

“If not fucking shot,” added Jobe.

“Looks like we’ve got a job to do,” Tony stated.

“Boss, you need to know that there won’t be any money from the center. It’s run non-profit by a grant.”

“We’ve done pro-bono work before and this is no different,” Tony said. Looking around the table, he asked, “Everyone agree?”

With unanimous nods and “hell yeahs,” the group began organizing the new mission.

“BJ, I want you to take Terrance and Doug with you as you scope the placement of the camera systems for the city lights. Jobe, I’m moving you to this assignment until it’s up and running. Gabe, you call Jennifer and have her get in contact with Mac. We’ll meet ‘em this afternoon if possible at the center and do our initial consultation. You, Vinny, Jobe and I will meet there when you have a specific time.”

* * *

Mackenna walked out of the morning staff meeting, her head aching with all of the negatives.No more grant money for this year. It’ll be tight, but if Jennifer can point me in the direction of some fundraising activities, then maybe we can make it and even have enough for another part-time teacher.

With these thoughts swirling in her mind, she headed down the hall.

“Mac,” came the shout from behind. Recognizing Jennifer’s voice, she turned smiling.

“I’ve talked to Gabe, who’s already talked to Tony, who’s already decided to help out your center.”

Before Mackenna could react to that news, Jennifer rushed on. “And, they want to meet this afternoon to see the center and assess the needs.”

“Wow, they move fast,” Mackenna said, stunned at the quick events.

With a wink, Jennifer agreed. “Oh yeah, all the Alvarez men move fast.”

Rolling her eyes, Mackenna gave Jennifer a shoulder nudge as they walked down the hall together. “You know what I mean. So when do they want to meet?”

“Yes, I do know what you mean and I just wish you’d let someone move fast on you! But as far as this afternoon, Gabe said to give them a time and they’ll be there.”

Mackenna pondered what all she needed to accomplish and replied, “Is three o’clock okay?” She waited as Jennifer pulled out her cell phone and confirmed with Gabe. Receiving her nod, Mackenna continued walking down the hall, grateful to Jennifer, but not wanting to intrude on what was becoming a lovey, personal phone call.I’m glad for her, but I wish…Shaking her head, she stepped into the elevators, knowing she needed to rush to get her list of things to complete so that she could be at the center by three o’clock.

* * *

Arriving an hour early, Mackenna was pleased that she had been able to fly through her appointments. She only went to one high school, but set up a time to talk to all of the high school counselors and social workers at one of their meetings next month to discuss identifying young girls that might be lured into the gang life.

Armed with three bags of groceries, she made her way into the kitchen. Carla and Jenita took them from her and began putting them away.

“Ladies, I’ve got an agreement with one of the churches down the street that we can have some of their food that does not get eaten after they have their Wednesday night meals. That would provide supper for you all for at least a couple of days and stretch our food budget.”

“Perfect,” Carla said, putting away the vegetables that were brought in. “And before you ask, Gabby is doing great. She settled in last night and this morning was eager to start the Microsoft Certification program, so Rose already has her in the education room with the others.”

Sighing in relief, Mackenna smiled. “So how’s the job hunting going for you, Jenita?”

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