9.  WEST CHURCH

Stretching from 47^th street down to Xavier Drive, West Chruch is the name given to the area around the south end of Churchend Avenue.  This area, as well as Hell’s Point to the south, are defended by Hard 8 out of the Bitter Sea bar.  While Hard 8 keeps the gangs from encroaching into the territory, they lack the resources to keep petty crime and small groups in check. So while the area is mostly neutral, it is also very dangerous.  West Church is so named for Saint Helena’s church, which sits at the south corner of Churchend and 60^th.

Most of Churchend, and Hell’s Point, is made up of small businesses and housing, and together they make up the largest area in the Zone not directly controlled by gang influence.   Hard 8 does charge protection fees to businesses and homes, and does require apartment complexes under their protection to set aside 20 percent of their space for members, but other than that Hard 8 keeps out of the peoples affairs and doesn’t sell drugs or sex.  Not to say these things can’t be found in abundance here, just that the ones providing it are not affiliated with any major gang.  It is one of the few places in the Zone where you can be truly free.

Written By Deric Bernier

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