In the cozy town of Porterville, California, tucked inside the small gated community of Lone Oak, Ron’s house feels like the heart of the neighborhood. As a photographer for GRID CV, I visited Ron’s place to take photos of a new rooftop solar setup, part of a project with Kern Community School District. The day was cloudy but nice, and it was great for capturing the work. When I stepped inside Ron’s home, a bright fish tank glowed in the corner, giving off a warm vibe that told me this was a special place.
Ron greeted me with a big smile, a friendly man whose kindness made everyone feel at home. He wasn’t just getting free solar panels—he was like the glue holding his community together. His house was a spot where neighbors gathered, like the bar in the TV show Cheers, where everyone knows each other. Neighbors like Rich, who helped Ron join our program and acts like the neighborhood’s leader, and Lillian, who was also getting solar, stopped by to check on things and chat.
Ron’s generosity made the day unforgettable. He shared stories and cooked a tasty Filipino dish called Pancit noodles for the workers, filling the air with a savory smell. His yard had fruit trees, and he let neighbors pick fruit whenever they wanted, showing how much he cared about sharing. At the end of the day, Ron gave the crew a dozen fresh eggs and a freshly slaughtered chicken to thank them, a kind gesture that showed who he really was.
Even though Ron had to retire early because of an injury, he stayed devoted to his wife, kids, and grandkids, some of whom still live with him. In Lone Oak, Ron is a hero, not just for using solar power to help the environment, but for bringing people together. His home, with its glowing fish tank and shared meals, feels like a warm gathering place, reminding us how special it is when people connect and care for each other.
