DEAR EDITOR:

The Youngstown community lost a massive piece of its heart last week with the passing of Victoria Allen.

I had the privilege, honor and much gratitude for working with Vicki on different neighborhood events.

It was never about accolades with Vicki; it was only about seeing the South Side become better and mentor and guide the youth. Her devotion to each child, like they were her own, showed at every event.

They say a person’s life could be measured by the dash, the little line between birth and death. I would never say that line was little in Vicki’s life. She gave more love and energy to a side of Youngstown that some would write off. I believe we all know that little line is now a massive void in our community.

You will be missed, my friend, but your legacy will carry on.

Thank you for showing the rest of us how to love one another and love our community.

May all our dashes be like Vicki’s.

CHRISTINE SILVESTRI

Youngstown