RECENT COMMENTS
Dotts officially seeking interim appointment
In an email circulated today and following an announcement that council will not ask candidates to pledge that they won’t seek election in November, Jennie Dotts has publicly declared her interest in the appointment to the interim vacancy created by Delores McQuinn’s likely victory in the special election:
Following todays special election, City Council will appoint a representative from our community to fill the 7th District Council seat to be vacated by Delores McQuinn. I would like to ask you to support my appointment to this interim position. Attached is a letter outlining my qualifications and what I can bring to this important post. Remember, a number of key issues will come before council this year, issues with long-term consequences for the district. It’s crucial we have a strong advocate who fully understands the issues, the players and what’s at stake. While this is a temporary position, it is extremely important that Delores’s successor bring to bear a significant level of influence on decision-making. I believe that in the last 15 years of my civic activism I’ve developed the contacts, relationships, and support to serve our community best.
I email Jennie and asked: “If you got the appointment, would you run in fall?”
Who else is seeking the appointment?
Rumor has it that Ms.McQuinn is working to get Cynthia Newbille the appointment to succeed her on Council.
Newbille supposedly lives in Henrico which would make such an appointment very interesting.
I don’t know Ms. Newbille but have heard good things. But if she lives in the 6th why didn’t she run against Robertson if she wanted to serve? Now she is willing to move to the 7th to get appointed – will she really have our district’s best interests at heart or do as she is told?
I am so sick of the Henry Marsh and Delores McQuinn GANG running the East End. HAVE THEY NO SHAME?
If Newbille moves to the 7th and Council goes along and appoints her, I am going to wonder who paid them to let her play!
I feel strongly that whoever fills the 7th seat needs to come from Church Hill and not an outsider who has not been involved with the neighborhood, knows or understands it’s architectural history, or special needs for preservation. Ms. Dotts does and is actively involved.
While I am sure Ms. Dotts is highly capable, I have to wonder about some of the achievements she cites. She got a contract but didn’t write the book, the Murphy Hotel was demolished months ago, and the teen center buildings have sat empty and vacant for years.
These triumphs seem slightly spun for our benefit.
Cynthia Newbill is the director of the Family Resource Center on Jefferson Ave. I believe she doesn’t currently live in the district, but grew up/spent a lot of time here (?), works here, and still lives in the city.
At least that’s what I’ve heard. Like Tom (#4) I’ve also heard very good things about her.
Cynthia has a health column in the monthly “Key Awareness” publication (motto: turning positives into print). PDF archives are available at their website:
http://keyawarenesspublishing.com/
It’s not just rumor, its reality! Not only is mcquinn working to get newbille appointed to the vacate seat that belongs to the people of the 7th district, by giving her an address in the district. The other reality check we all need to know, theirs an agreement not to appoint anyone other than an African American to the seat. Everyone who lives in the 7th district and in the City of Richmond should be outraged, both BLACKS and WHITES, that mcquinn, marsh and newbille, think they could even have that conversation with Council. If Council even considers such an agreement we should all talk to the justice department. Wake up people; henry has held this district hostage by using some of the same ticks that got Richmond City under the Voting Rights Act!!! (Curtis Holt v. Richmond City Council) We all have invested and worked hard in this community to make it a better place for our families lets not sit back and let this SHIT occur!!! Please call Council and “SAY NO TO newbille and TO THE RACE CARDâ€!!!!!
Ask newbille what precinct she voted in NOV? What address was on her drivers license ,tax return, personal property taxes, real estate taxes and pay check in 2008? She lives in the 6th why didn’t she run against Robertson if she wanted to serve? Now she is willing to move to the 7th to get appointed – will she really have our district’s best interests at heart or do as she is told?
Jennie, I found your letter to be little puzzling, are you trying to imply that you have both Henry Marsh and McQueen support? If not, why did you add Marsh name to the people you wanted contacted? I thought the decision was totally up to council, I was not aware that Marsh played a role, but maybe he does. I always question what was meant by the Marsh Machine. Just thought I would let you know, McQuinn, Marsh and McQuinn’s son is supporting Cynthia Newbille (who was married to a Marsh).
I would like to respond to comments made about the accomplishments/activities cited in my letter seeking Council appointment. 1) Yes, I obtained a contract to produce a book on black architecture in Richmond; I never claimed to have written it. I persuaded Selden Richardson to write it. He is an architectural historian; I am not. Furthermore, he’d done significant research on key black landmarks in Richmond, which I felt qualified him to write knowledgeably and sensitively about the subject. I oversaw editing, photography, production, marketing and distribution.
2) The Murphy Hotel was demolished, but after a lengthy battle to save it. Out of this struggle came the state’s decision to preserve and restore the Richmond Hotel, which was also slated for demolition. Gov. Kaine said that he would not authorize the Murphy’s demolition until funds were available to replace it. That did not happen. While this long, difficult struggle over the Commonwealth of VA’s unchallenged ability to demolish state-owned landmarks in the city failed to save the Murphy, the problem was highlighted and addressed in the new Master Plan as a result. We had high hopes that with Kaine and Wilder in power, the city’s preservation interests would have been better served.
3) As for the Teen Center, yes, the railway terminal has been vacant. The bldg was long neglected until A.C.O.R.N. worked with the city to arrange its purchase for eventual renovation into a much-needed facility for at-risk teens. However, Mayor Wilder refused to release funds secured by Councilwoman McQuinn for the bldg’s renovation. I am hopeful that the new administration will take a different view of the importance of this historic bldg and the needs of our at-risk youth.
I would be pleased to respond to other questions/comments about my commitment to and activites on behalf of our community.
@ Bill
From personal experience, I know that Jennie Dotts tried dilligently to save the Murphy Hotel. Through A.C.O.R.N., she held numerous rallies, gathered petitions, spoke with the media on multiple occasions, interacted with local and state elected officials, etc. It was very frustrating for many of us to see the building torn down after all of that hard work.
Isn’t Cynthia Newbill from the 6th district?
A resident of the 7th district should be appointed to the 7th council seat. Moving right before appointment doesn’t count -it’s cheesy and proves that obtaining a political position is far more important than actually representing constituents.
Matthew, is it okay with you that someone outside the district, is hand picked to represent us in the 7th district? Do you think for one moment this discussion would be happening in any other districts in this city? We have approximately 29,000 residents in the east end, am I to believe that not one of them is capable of representing me? Reggie Malone , John Murden, Sharon or Art Burton, Mary Thompson, Mary Robinson, Keith West, Matt Conrad , Valeria Burrell-Muhammad, Emanuel Morgano, Geneva Walker, Dr. Allison, Kristen Grey, Jennie Dotts, Matthew Freeman, Marilyn Olds, Carl or Mary Ellen Otto, Rose Pollard and Denise Wise. That’s just to name a few; I could go on and on. Oh, let me not leave out myself. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying they want the appointment; I’m just making a point. This district has many great hard working people, don’t hand pick someone for us. I think Lee Young was hand picked by Marsh
I don’t care what anyone says, there has been racial tensions in the 7th (Church Hill) that still continues today and have experienced it first hand. Blacks want a stronghold here so gentrification can be curbed and preservation kept to a minimum as our historic buildings and landmarks are torn down or rot away. I know that the McQuinn team’s heart does NOT follow the interest of preservation. I know Dotts does.
And come on guys, do you think someone would post their credentials for a public office unless they can back them up?
Eric
#10 Jay, you answered your own question “what is meant by the Marsh Machine” in your own comment:
“Just thought I would let you know, McQuinn, Marsh and McQuinn’s son is supporting Cynthia Newbille (who was married to a Marsh).”
Sounds like an old family business to me.
Jeannie.. is your web site down? We can’t get to it or contact you?
VaGirl… similar to the “Good Old Boys” club downtown. Again I reiterate… stronghold.
It could be worse, we could be living in Chicago!
Eric
When the Murphy Hotel (aka Commonwealth Building) was torn down, wasn’t there a promise and guarantee that it wouldn’t unless a plan was in place for immediate replacement on the site? Even had artist sketches of what it was to look like.
What happened?
Eric,The racial tension is not with the majority of the district, just with a selected few who benefit from it. NO gentrification is going on in the district. Gentrification happens when you push one group of people out and replace with another. No one got pushed out, properties were vacant, dilapidated and abandon! Who ever want to buy and invest in the district can. Is something going on in the district I don’t know about?
This is Richmonds version of Chicago’s “pay-to- play” and it totally stinks.
I bet “Mcqueen” wants to have someone who will step aside should Dwight Jones decide to bag the Mayoral gig and ask for his seat back. Hence, their first efforts to put JJ in play to keep the seat warm for his Momma while she keeps Dwight’s warm for him.
No wonder Richmond makes so little progress. It is led by emotional illiterates.
Torey, I hear what you are saying about gentrification but it has been going on for a while – or at least in certain people’s mind. I can point you to various large articles written in the newspaper during the 1980s when there was a LOT of boarded up houses and those left behind were crying RACE and GENTRIFICATION because whites were moving in and restoring old homes. That in turn raised property values and the older folks felt “pushed out”. This mindset still goes on today and though it may not cover all of Church Hill, it covers enough to cause tension and obstruction of preservation and restoration. It is still currently happening with the properties on the corner of N 27th and E Marshall (as an example).
Eric
Eric, yes lots of boarded up houses were restored , families begin to move back into the east end, property values increased, the city got a tax base, crime starting to go down, and businesses are opening up! Now what’s the problem? Oh!! The small minded folks that keep trying to play the race card.
Eric, lets keep reminding them to put the race card down and pick up the education card!
Once we get our schools in the east end where we would like them to be, the east end will truly be the community of choice ïŠ
P.S. Our elderly and disabled homeowners get a tax break on real estate taxes
In response to #17, http://www.oldhouseauthority.com is up, please visit.
In response to #19
You are right about the Murphy Hotel, we were promised it wouldn’t be demolished until funding was secure for its replacement. That did not happen and it was a terrible loss for the city. Quite a few developers expressed interest in purchasing and rehabilitating the old hotel–at their expense. But the state claimed it had to hold onto the property for security reasons.
While at A.C.O.R.N. I participated in meetings about the design of the replacement structure. A good deal of money was spent on design fees. However, the legislature refused to include funding for the new bldg in its budget, which has since eroded. Not sure when the extras millions necesary will become available.
I was disappointed at the architect’s insistence on a modern blockbuster for the all-important stretch of Broad St. between 8th and 9th. An integral part of Capitol Square and abutting those two historic, temple-like churches (St. Peter’s and St. Paul’s), the new construction, in my opinion, should comport with the classically inspired context of Capitol Square. The Murphy Hotel proposed replacement would look fine in Innsbrook, but not in the company of Jefferson’s sublime creation. Can’t say I’m sorry it hasn’t been built, but I am annoyed about being mislead.
The walling off of Capitol Square is one of the colossal planning failures in Richmond history. This Capitol view is lost to history, but once was a landmark view of the city. I’m not sure it can be viewed from any point on the compass now. It’s sort of like a secret garden. You can pass within a block of it and not know it’s there.
Re: 23 Well said Torey.
In response to your question, Jay (#10), Sen. Marsh is on the list of those to contact because I’ve been told by some members of Council that his opinion counts on the matter of this appointment and that it would behoove me to have his support.
How about Matt Conrad?
Torey (#14) – I was not endorsing Newbill, I was simply reporting what I know.
Eric, I find your statement highly problematic:
“Blacks want a stronghold here so gentrification can be curbed and preservation kept to a minimum as our historic buildings and landmarks are torn down or rot away.”
It’s very disappointing to see this kind of stereotyping going on- attributing a negative idea to a whole group of people you are not a part of and for whom you are speaking.
As far as I can tell from working and living in this district, blacks have different ideas from each other about what’s best for this district, as do whites. There are pro-preservation forces and pro-affordable housing forces at work in this district- they can and should work together. But don’t get those confused with the pro-status quo and pro-political gain forces, also at work in our district. They’re not the same. And all 4 of those groups cross racial boundaries.
I agree that the appointment should come from the 7th district.
I would like the McQuinn camp to address the comments that indicate a deal has been to appoint only an african american or only a Marsh supporter.
Torey, how do you approach people who are so dead set against white enterprise and capitalism that they will play games not only with potential investors but with the city just to stay them off from having any involvement in their self labeled “birth right” property and affairs? It’s the old adage about “can’t teach an old dog new tricks”. That in itself affects those surrounding them and does no one any good in the long term scheme of things.
Eric
Jennie, please say it’s not sooo!
Re: 9 Maybe Judith knows what she is talking about. I don’t know why I did not want to believe what she was saying. I guess I was hoping for just a little integrity in the process!
Marsh and McQuinn don’t want smart black or white people, males or females, asking too many question or expecting too much.
The color of the skin doesn’t matter near as much as the content of the brain, or the lack thereof.
Eric, Lets start by not making this a Black against White issue. If you get caught up in that mess, you will never see what is really going on.
People have a way of making stuff up only to cover up what they are really trying to do. I know some people will tell Black not to sell to Whites only to turn around and get the property for a little of nothing. Once they get the property, they will just hold it and do nothing with until they see the opportunity to make $$$.
I still want McQuinn to speak the allegations made in these comments. I have always been a supporter, but the charges make me pause. Please respond, the silence on these issues is getting very loud.
Most of us who elected to move to the East End did so because we enjoy diversity. We like living beside and being with people different from ourselves. This is certainly true for me. Racism has no role in a community built upon such values. I draw strength from those who illuminate areas of unfamiliarity to me.
Let’s keep the focus on what people have to offer and where this community needs to go.
@Torey-whats wrong with the opportunity to make money, its what makes things work,- incentive. Get money
“Please remember that you are talking to your neigbors.”
I sadly find that many commentors on this sight are more concerned with preserving architecture than they are with preservation of the human spirit. If my small voice counts in this electoral process, I am inclined to vote for an individual, regardless of race, whose concern is to preserve the human spirit moreso than buildings that hold no value at all if its inhabitants are poor in spirit.
Blessings, as always, to all…
Cordie, I see this as a good discussion. Could you please point out which comments led you to believe that someone is more concerned with architecture than humans?
I’m grateful for those who have moved into our neighborhood because of their love of history and architecture. When I was born and brought to Church Hill over 40 years ago, our family was surrounded by blight, boarded shells, humans defecating in abandon buildings, and extreme poverty. It has taken this long to get to where we are -a neighborhood with accredited schools, nice shops, descent grocery store selling Mac & Cheese sans worms and without mice scurrying down aisles, well maintained blocks, and a diverse population where children, including my own, don’t see in black and white.
Liberty, nothing wrong with making money, but when you deceitfully block a sale at fair market value to a person who want to fix that property up and put it back into the real estate tax base that’s wrong.
This usually occurs when the property owners are seniors or families with limited income and may have some back taxes due or code violations. Then a whisper campaign starts “You should sale the property, but don’t sale to them. They are trying to take over our community; I’ll take it off your hand†the owners may enter into a deal with that person, because they trust that person. The bottom line is the original owners receives little to nothing, and the person they trust will make the $$$$.
And they turn around and sale the property to the very folks they started the whisper campaign against.
Well first of all there are 6 whites on council. We definitely need some black representation.We also have a white council president. Most of the candidates who want to run don’t even know whats outside their own 2 block radius. I will vote for the person who will do something for all people. Torey Edmonds will never get my vote. She is a loser and only thinks about how she can benefit herself. The hell with Torey Edmonds.
Keith West, Sharon Burton, Reggie Malone and the Ottos, which are the wanna be republican crew will not get my vote either.
@Gray. I see a lot of bickering and white/black talk in this thread. . .I’m delighted about the beautification of a few homes in Churchill by those who can afford such renovations. The majority of the homes in Churchill need no major renovation. Therefore, my main concern in this community is the reduction of violence among the youth and an improved school system. One high school to accomodate the whole of Church Hill, which is infested with gang activity from many areas, including all of the public housing in Church Hill, is much more important discussion to me than preserving architecture. I have children who have to attend Armstrong High School. There are usually no less than 5 major fights in this school on any given day. A child is going to get seriously hurt or killed if something is not done soon. Also, the violence always spill into the neighborhood after school. So, that is the agenda that I’m looking for in the candidate for this seat. Sorry for the interuption. . . Carry on. . .
Henry Marsh or his protege has occupied the 7th District council seat as long as there has been a 7th District council seat. What in the world did he do to earn a lifetime claim to that seat? Will the City Council really appoint someone who isn’t a bona fide resident just to keep Henry happy? It that what the district deserves?
Will City Council not realize they’re being hemmed in by Henry’s forces? His protege sits in the Mayor’s office. He and the Mayor worked to designate the new School Board Chairman. If they don’t wake up we’re going to end up exactly where we were 30 years ago.
Torey… what you state has echoes of a particular situation I heard about but in this case there was comments about birth rights, and selling only to a particular person but not for profit. They would only sell to people they knew that are black and who were resisting cooperating with the city and it still continues. No one in that group mentioned has any dispensable funds to buy and sell to make profits and the buildings are in such poor shape that it would take a Rockefeller to fix them up. Plus not trying to play a “race card” but I have hear personally slurs about the properties with my own ears through those involved.
I agree with “gray”, these individuals had opportunities to get out from under these buildings and make a substantial profit as well and them being restored but turned them down. It doesn’t matter if the new investor does re-sells as long as the end result cleans up and restores the neighborhood.
Eric
Cordie, I understand about the human element but how can “anyone” have pride or hold their head high if they live in or are surrounded by slums or dilapidated buildings? Just that as you fix them up, do it correctly the first time around since this has become a nationally recognized old and historic neighborhood.
One aspect is related to the other through human emotions.
Eric
Historical preservation is an important issue for this neighborhood. But please let’s remember that this is not the only issue. We need a representative that will address crime, gangs, the closing of schools, and a myriad of other social support systems that our community relies on. I would want my representative to be active and involved in historic preservation, however if that was the only thing they accomplished and none of the other items were addressed, I would considered their term a failure.
Cordie, I’m with you on education. You might want to check out the threads with the most comments from the chpn archives.
http://chpn.net/news/2008/10/13/6th-district-school-board-candidate-burton-calls-for-action-on-violence-at-armstrong/
http://chpn.net/news/2008/03/15/style-profiles-pinkney-eppes/
http://chpn.net/news/2008/06/30/goldman-and-west-to-propose-school-uniform-policy/
So true “tiny” and I feel that Jennie is well balanced and not just only about preservation. Just that she has a heightened awareness for it where others have failed in that area.
“Anthony” is by all reports Anthony Dale, a minor city council staffer who is often seen in the company of McQuinn and JJ. It seems his function is to bad mouth anyone who is not in the McQuinn camp, which must be a very small place indeed if they cannot even find a candidate to support in their own district.
You would hope that a city employee would have more discretion that to bash the people who pay his salary. Maybe this is the best we can expect from the Marsh camp.
I feel like McQuinn has done a good job. I understand Eric’s position because she does put the historic preservation issue on the back burner compared to other social issues. What is everyone else’s beef?
Anthony, I don’t think its your vote thats needed, or maybe it is, maybe you are a PHONY !!!!
“tiny”…
I often wonder if those “social issues” involve what is best for her and her clique of friends rather than the community as a whole? And if those “social issues” are tilted heavily towards blacks and not balanced across the board?
I know, race again that that is the impression some come away with about her and the likes who focus on certain things and could care less about others. I am sure you can link some of her (and Sam Patterson) pet projects with race and aggressive support towards blacks and their community – imbalance.
That would be like saying that many blacks voted for Obama only because he too is black and they are trying to personally vindicate a statement about equality rather than his political views… hmmm…
Eric
@torey, unfortunately people use the govt. as a means to an end, political entreprneurs pressure the govt. in various ways, code violations for example, to press homeowners into a distress sale. We shouldnt allow developers to influence code officials to condemn one place and not another, but this is hard ball dirty politics. People desire other peoples property and their are tricks to making it happen.
It is becoming increasing clear that Mrs. Dotts qualification matter not one bit, because she does not have the pigmintation qualification, which is required for this position.
Several members of council have expressed that this will be a “black appointment”.
If this is not disappointing to those of us who supported the election of the first black President and the first black governor before that, I don’t know what is. It looks like Richmond is to be forever mired in the past. It’s the fault of the white gentry who go along with this sort of thing as well as our black “leaders” who are eager to cry race when their personal power is threatened.
The city council needs to think hard if appeasing the power aspirations of an aging politician are worth perpetuating the racial divisions of the city and turning the keys of the city back over to the very people who wrecked in the 70’s and 80’s.
I don’t see what the Mayor and Henry have to offer but, as always, there are plenty of things mere citizens don’t know.
When writers start listing various potential candidates, remember that city Council must choose between the people who have come forward in the applications process. It doesn’t matter how good you might be, or your political/personal affiliations, you must qualify as a candiate. So far, only a couple of people have come forward.
Ron, Of the people that have come forward, do they all reside in the 7th district?
Just so I understand, who are the “couple of people” that have come forward? Currently, who are the official prospects being considered by City Council to fill 7th district vacancy?
Umm…Ron, is there an actual application? I was not aware that council could only consider those who have publicly announced their interest, or filled out an application, so would you please explain? Also, how does one “qualify as a candidate,” Ron? I am aware that council candidates do not declare political affiliation in Richmond, but please explain your meaning as to how one “must qualify as a candidate.” It might help if you would state your sources, too (state or city code, etc.).
And I’ll echo Resident522 in asking again, who are the “couple of people” who have come forward?
It is my understanding that council last Monday night agreed on a process for selection. There will be an advertisement telling people how to express their interest (submission of a letter, resume, etc) then they will be send a questionaire. Council decides how many candidates they wish to interview (perhaps all who apply). Interviews (public and open) will then take place and council will then choose an appointee. If memory serves, council has 45 days from the date of vacancy, which is expected to be next Tuesday, Jan 13.
I have heard three mentioned as possibles…Dotts, Newbill and Squires.
Legal qualifications are established by state law. I think it is Section 24.2-501, Code of Virginia.
I realized I missed Gray’s question about residency. Since no-one has formally applied yet, we don’t know who has qualified by any test.
As of Thursday, Jan. 8, Ms. Newbille continued to be registered in Henrico County. Her listing in the phone book is in the 6th District. Unless the state Board of Elections has it wrong, she did not vote in November’s city elections.
For those who wonder why Mr. Marsh and Ms. McQuinn have influence in this district, one need only look at their election records.
They have consistently had the support of a majority district’s voters. Mr. Marsh has rarely been challenged. Ms. McQuinn has beat those who challenged her.
For those who are disappointed, the way to usher in change is to support and ensure a majority of votes for another candidate.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Keep_Richmond_Honest/signatures.html
I signed the peition and hope you will, too!
Over the past few years, I’ve gotten to know Cynthia Newbile as the Director of the Family Resource Center.
During this time, I’ve never once questioned her “dedication to the citizens of the 7th district” and to all the folks who see assistance at the FRC.
She is a strong leader and a tireless worker (I see this simply as a neighboring business owner who works across the street from her every day.)
Ask anyone who works at, or is served by the FRC, and I wager they’ll tell you the same, if not better.
It wasn’t till now that I learned she didn’t live in the 7th district, and up till now, it didn’t matter.
I admire Cynthia and what she has accomplished for the staff and clients of the Family Resource Center. It pains me to think of her caught in the crossfire of this thread. And I find myself wishing she already lived here in the 7th.
There are lots of qualified folks in this district who could serve as interim council person. If, however, Cynthia were to be selected, and satisfy the requirements for the appointment, I think she could serve us well.
I don’t know if Cynthia Newbile is/isn’t a “pawn in a machevellian political scheme to keep Dwight’s seat warm or to serve as a person of color on-demand in council.” But everything I personally know about her character tells me that’s NOT what she’s about.
The least we (or I) can do is keep an open mind, and wait to see how Cynthia and Delores address the concerns that have been raised by others on this tread. I encourage others to keep an open mind for now, too.
Oh, and in the interest of complete disclosure, I also admire and respect Jennie Dotts, and think she, too, could serve us well should she receive the appointment.
I have heard the names of Betty Squire, John Gerner, Keith West,Torey Edmonds and Matt Conrad mentioned as possible interim appointments as well. All are good, solid citizens who care about the community.
And, I keep hearing good things about John Murden and wish him all good things in his effort to win the seat in the coming election.
I do not think it is too much to expect that a district be represented by someone who actually lives in the district.
Ron, #59, thanks for the info. Most helpful.
chgal – various posts, please keep posting. Sounds to me as if you are very in touch with some grass roots info.
Elaine #63- no disrespect and nothing offensive meant, but I think you are being naive, or perhaps you don’t understand the problem – this is about Henry Marsh’s years-long hold on the east end. He was a major player in the civil rights struggle way back in the 60’s and 70’s but his time has run out, same as Jesse Jackson’s. He’s old guard. Ms. Newbille may care about the area, BUT SHE DOES NOT RESIDE HERE. She may be a caring person and good administrator and of great character, and care for the folks at the FMC, but she doesn’t live here! It’s not about character, it’s about Henry Marsh pulling invisible strings, and busing people into polls on election day to keep his sense of power alive in the east end.
crd —
You nailed it! As someone once pointed out to me, Richmond has long had “Gang” trouble. For far too many years, it has been the “Henry Gang” vs. the “Doug Gang.”
The stuff they pull was “old” when they first pulled it and it has kept our city and region back for far too long. We need CHANGE.
It is my understanding that Ms. Newbille has already moved into the district. I too think that she is a wonderful person and is well qualified. However, it is insulting that Marsh and McQuinn feel that the 7th District does not have qualfied residents to hold that seat. But it is not about being qualified but Marsh/McQuinn keeping control of the district. Remember that this is the same strategy Marsh used when he moved Lee Young in the district and he won the seat. History is repeating.
Ms. Newbille can certainly move into the district if she wants and then run for the seat in the November election. That way, the citizens of the district, not the “power-brokers”, would be the ones passing judgement if the feel her current non-residence in the district is appropriate.
But, it is absolutely wrong for the “power brokers” to decide Ms. Newbille is their choice, have her move into the district, and then hand her the seat with an appointment.
If Ms. Newbille, therefore, wants to represent the district on Council, she should forgo seeking the appointment by the the power brikers and instead, run in the November election and let the district citizens decide if she is worthy of their support.
Lee Young was hand-picked by the Marsh Gang. I understand that JJ Minor (McQuinn’s son) who was mentioned early-on as a possible “interim” appointment for the 7th District seat, will soon have a $$$job$$$ in City Hall, thanks to the generosity of Mayor Dwight Jones and the taxpayers of the City of Richmond.
The more things change, the more they remain the same.
Newbill sounds like a nice person but I don’t want someone who has abandoned the city for the county to represent us. We need someone willing to duke it out and stay put to represent the 7th district.
1.) “Those who do not know their history are doomed to repeat it.”
Follow the link below and note especially the quotation from Oliver W. Hill on page 61 ….
Rise and Decline of the Black Majority Council
2.) “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.
ok, “history lesson” i read the pages you linked to. very instructive. by why is all this stuff coming up now? where were you (and everyone else) earlier this year when we reelected mcquin by a landslide?
if everyone is so pissed off by the status quo, why didn’t folks mobilize and run to oppose the “machine” in 2008? i’m afraid we may be a day late & dollar short, at this juncture.
UnionHill RVA, I’ve worked on three council campaigns in the 7th in the last fifteen years or so (and lived here for at least 25 years). It is not anywhere as easy as you seem to think to unseat the incumbent in the 7th, because there are major blocs of voters who vote as the Marsh camp (or machine) tells them to.
History Lesson, I found the book interesting but saw some major typos that I hope are the result of scanning errors. I didn’t catch who wrote the essay you linked to, either. But thanks for posting it.
Knowledge is power. Trust me, UnionHill, if I had seen the book prior to McQuinn’s “landslide” and Dwight Jones’ election as Mayor, I would most certainly have posted it.
History teaches us that an informed electorate is the best safeguard against demagogues and despots. And, I agree, we may indeed be the proverbial “day late & dollar short.”
However, my sincere hope here is that this information can help inform citizens and the members of City Council why appointing a “bonafide” 7th district resident to McQuinn’s Council seat is so very important.
Re: Crd Post #73 Good eye! I caught two unfortunate typoes: Sa’ad El-Amin and Howard Carwile’s names are spelled incorrectly. Plus, Wilder is referred to as “then-Governor” when I am sure the authors meant to say “future-Governor.”
Errors duly noted, I fact-checked the other points in the article and found them to be accurate. The excerpt is from:
Dimensions of Black Conservatism in the United States: Made in America
By Gayle T. Tate, Lewis A. Randolph
Published by Macmillan, 2002
ISBN 0312293704, 9780312293703
244 pages
Well this goes to JoeRichmond, Chgal, and others who want to continue the crab mentality.Don’t hate on people because they have worked hard in the community. If JJ(McQuinn son) gets a job, he sure damn deserves it. Whether its $60,000,$70,000,$80,000, he has worked harder than some of the potential candidates put together. Folks want to run for office and haven’t been here from 2 to 5 years. Please, this website is a joke and this website will not help anyone win the election because 89% of the district doesn’t have a computer.Torey is a 6 or 7 time loser who is known to be a spoiler in any election. JJ,Jennie Dotts,and Cynthia Newbille are the only candidates that knows the grassroots folk in the community.I got to admit Torey knows folks to but she has burnt her bridges with everyone.What a joke?Newbille lives in the district now, which makes her a qualified resident. She lives near the PP area north of Nne Mile rd.Cynthia is also from the East End and is in contact with alot of folks in the area.She is well known and is more qualified than all of the candidates.I still pray that JJ runs because he can continue progress that has been made.He is definitely a community leader and knows how to win elections. The young people and seniors love him.So this is an introduction of my opinion.Stop the hate and participate.
Tyler,
“If JJ (McQuinn son) gets a job, he sure damn deserves it.”
Why does he deserve it so much? Would you be so kind as to cite specific examples please?
Tyler,
First of all, you have introduced the word “hate.” No one on this — or any other — blog has expressed anything that even remotely resembles “hate.”
So, stop putting words in other people’s mouths, ok?
Cynthia Newbille’s last known address was in the 6th District. If she wanted to serve on Council, she should have run against Ellen. Now, the word is out that she is moving into the 7th in order to be appointed. No matter how you look at this, this is wrong. If she wants to run for the seat in November, fine. But, don’t move to the 7th one week and think that you are therefore entitled to be appointed just because McQuinn, Marsh and Jones want to control the process and pick the person themselves.
And, I respectfully disagree that she is more qualified than anyone currently residing in the 7th. People need to trust the citizens in the 7th District to choose who they think is most qualified.
So, you should consider stopping the hate and condescension — the people in the 7th District are smarter than you might think.
Can anyone list any specific examples of what JJ or McQuinn have done for the community? I keep hearing praise for them yet never any details.
Tyler, When constituents stand up and say they don’t want to be represented by someone who was moved into our district for the appointment, it is a right, it is participation, and it is far from hate.
I for one, support John Murden for 7th district council seat and I certainly would not oppose Dotts being appointed in the meantime. Is that considered “hate” and lack of “participation” because it’s not JJ or Newbill?
Tyler, the real crab mentality is the elected leaders that uses the people in the 7th district community that trust and believe in them and worked hard for them during election time to keep them in office.
Only to have these leaders turn around and spit in our faces by saying “yall just work hard to keep me in the seat, but you aren’t good enough for the seatâ€. See they want the elderly and poor to think they are acting in their best interest and everyone else is against them. I am just walking away, I give up, I can not deal with the crabs any more. Wake up people and see what is really going on. Our children will continue to die in the streets and McQuinn, Marsh, JJ and Newbille will continue to use us to make themselves look good. They will lift their children up on the backs of our children.
Just a few questions people need to ask themselves, if Marsh, McQuinn and Newbille have done so much for the 7th , then why do the youth and families in the east end have the worst outcomes in the city ? This community has had more money pumped in it then any other parts of the city. Along with the money coming in, it has also walked away miserably with no accountability. Who is really representing us in this district? Is it fair to give someone a job just because you help get me elected?
If James Minor bka JJ get a job, everyone who worked on the Campaign should get a job!! Rod and Rosalie Bullock, Marilyn, Delores, Evelyn and everyone else who worked for them, did you all get a job offer? Hell No, as far as they are concern we are just cheap help. We may have gotten a few dollars, but we won’t get $70,000. I once believed in them, but this Newbille thing opened my eyes!
Well said, Ex-supporter. The east end truly has had more money wasted than any other area, but it still has kids being killed in the streets, the highest teen pregnancy rate, the lowest high school graduation rate (or among the lowest), poverty, blighted housing, on and on.
But hey, McQuinn did one thing – she bought tacky Christmas decorations for 25th Street. And she got a million dollars a year for a couple of years there, for her PAYGO account, to dole out. No, that’s truly sad, sorry I’m being so sarcastic about it.
Your post #80 is truly great. Now will you go out in the district to all those who don’t have a computer, or who don’t read this blog, and spread that word? Thanks.
who the hell cares. jj will win
Really? If that happens, then he might just have to quit his 70K job.
I’m still waiting to hear what he and his Momma have done other than what Master Henry Marsh has told them to do.
Joe Richmond, funny how there have been several requests on this thread to cite specific examples of what JJ, McQuinn, Marsh, etc. have done for the community but no one seems to be able to answer the question. In my entire 5 years living in the Union Hill area I have seen McQuinn only a couple (for community cookouts…she came, shook hand, etc.)…oh, and I did see JJ once (at a fundraiser). Quite honestly, I feel there are others in the area (Congrad, Murden, et. al.) that have done a lot more to better the community than the lot of them either seated or being considered for the seat…
tyler,
Instead of saying “stop the hate and participate” I would say “stop the deliberate segregation and participate”
You know it is happening or you cast a blind eye and follow the McQuinn groupies? Most everything she has involved herself with benefits the black community. What has she done specifically to also help the white aspect of Church Hill or Richmond? Examples please.
The reason many of the posters do not know what McQuinn has done for the neighbor is because they are not among the poor, at-risk, elderly, or other people who in need in our community. McQuinn and JJ have reached out to that population in-person and hands-on.
I understand concerns about historically preservation, but I disagree about its priority in our neighborhood. We have so many that are in need. They live here too, and deserve representation.
I read the petition and the names on that list are all exactly who thought would sign it (referring to another thread). I understand where this group is coming from. However, I do not think this group is in touch with the needs of the majority of our residents.
There must be a way of balancing these sometime conflicitn issues without simply taking one side or another. If our representative does not uphold historic preservation standards, our community will suffer from it and its impact will last years. Likewise if our representive does not adequately serve the needs of at risk, working class, and elderly citizens, the impact will be catastrophic. Our representative must be able to make in-roads to rid Church Hill of its gangs, reduce crime, and promote education.
We have to be able to see beyond our own backyards to be able to see the needs for the whole neighborhood.
It is a shame that there is such a fight going on when so many citizens in the 7th district are struggling to survive. I have lived in this district all of mylife. We truly need a change.The same ole people get mentioned all the time because of their association, not their work. Keep it real!
Tiny,
So is that why JJ, Delores, Henry and Dwight are moving Cynthia Newbille into the district?
Giving away free school supplies is not exactly the way I expect an elected official to promote education.
And, now we have the brand-new School Board Chair, who was lobbied for by promoted by McQuinn, Marsh, Jones, allowing the administration to remove 6-8 teachers from MLK.
Yes, you read that right — RPS is trying to remove 6-8 teachers from MLK! In the middle of the school year!
Tiny,
“The reason many of the posters do not know what McQuinn has done for the neighbor is because they are not among the poor, at-risk, elderly, or other people who in need in our community. McQuinn and JJ have reached out to that population in-person and hands-on.”
What about the rest of us Tiny? Shouldn’t she have served EVERYONE in the community not just the poor, at-risk, elderly or other people in need in our community? Part of the community in need is the rest of us who need someone who will represent us as well.
tiny, I’m completely fine with a representative that is hands on with the poor and the elderly -I have experience with that myself- but I do take issue with the possibility of an outsider being appointed. I’m sure there is a qualified candidate who understands the plight of the poor and lives in our district. For example, John Murden isn’t just into preservation and everyday he is working at a school that most of the neighbors run from and refuse to send their children to. If anything John Murden bridges the gaps in this district between the poor and upper middle classes, the working poor and the non-working poor, the young and the old, etc more so than any of the other candidates. He supports small business, public transportation, and he lives what he preaches, for example, he rides his bike to work and frequents local restaurants, etc. No one has promoted local restaurants, schools, lectures, groups, and organizations as much as Murden.
Also you can’t assume people’s income. tiny you don’t know who is and isn’t among the poor.
Regarding education in the 7th district: if in fact McQuinn has done a fabulous job in promoting education, how come our school is practically all out of district students? A miniscule amount of neighbors attend their zoned school.
McQuinn might of done well with the poor like you say and I think it would be great to see the specifics listed but education a) Is not the job of the city council members b) Even so, promoting neighborhood schools has not been McQuinn’s strong suit.
I thought MLK was already short on teachers? That’s a shame!
That is all true… you can’t assume people’s incomes and by chance Church Hill over decades of neglect and abuse became a place for the poor, mainly black, to move. Now it has gained a National Historical status hence the preservation part but that is where the rub comes. If you restore homes up and down a block that in turn raises values and taxes which many can’t pay and you get the “being pushed out” syndrome. So where do you find a balance of providing for the poor and elderly while preserving and restoring at the same time (which can not be allowed to simply stop)?
With McQuinn it was all about what she could do for the black community and some of the recent self acclaimed kudos point that way: “McQuinn’s colleagues and residents praised her leadership on Richmond’s slave trail and Slavery Reconciliation Statue projects, as well as its annual back-to-school rally and parade ” (which were black schools). And I am sure there are other examples. Like several have said here, what did she do for EVERYONE both black and white across the board or was her agenda for selfish reasons?
Which are the neighborhood public schools whether you choose to send your other-pigmented offspring out of district or not, actually.
Forgive me for being a proceduralist, but there are no candidates yet, not until people come forward to Council with an application, resume, etc, and have been found to be qualified. Several people are being mentioned in this message train, and I wish to denigrate none of them. But after the deadline, if you don’t like the potential candidates left, don’t blame Council for its choice; blame the person in the mirror, or across the table.
When is the deadline? And where can someone pick up an application?
Some info in this post:
/2009/01/13/mcquinn-resigns-appointee-to-be-named-on-feb9/
But that address is just an email contact. Is there an official application somewhere?
“john_m”:
“Which are the neighborhood public schools whether you choose to send your other-pigmented offspring out of district or not, actually.”
And there you have it… an off-balanced area of the city that has lent itself to backward self-segregation which has been allowed to continue unopposed by city officials. Maybe because they wanted it that way????
Tiny, #86, did McQuinn do anything to reduce real estate taxes for the elderly? If you take the focus off the historic district designation supposedly increasing property values (when, in fact, the market has done that big time), and you just think about being on fixed income, those real estate taxes take a big bite, no matter what race you are. I for one am getting tired of hearing that poor blacks can’t pay their taxes because of historic district values, but no one thinks about older white folks who may have lived up here for twenty or thirty years, are now retired, and have to pay the same taxes. In other words – the real estate tax issue isn’t about race, it’s about a need to look at relief for the elderly, and it exists all across the city as well as across racial lines.
Did she put forth any initiative for affordable housing? Both issues cut across racial lines, they affect white, black, and any other races. And they affect the entire city, not just the 7th district.
Frankly, I’d like to see the next council person for the 7th put forth initiatives to address both those issues. I happen to know several people who are retired and having problems, and McQuinn did absolutely nothing to help them.
Mr. Murden, #93, as always, thanks for your succinct comment re. neighborhood public schools. Too true.
crd, post #99 regarding real estate property taxes:
There is already Property Tax Relief for the elderly and disabled. Many folks already make use of this, you just have to apply before the tax bills are due.
If your net hh income is less than $50k per year, and you’re either 65 or older/disabled, you qualify. Contact the city Finance office or go to the city website for more info.
Now that property values are dropping and cost of groceries increasing, I’m hoping for realestate taxes to decrease for all, especially the working poor to middle classes regardless of their age. Anyone making less than $65k should get a break.
Overall, citywide property values did not drop . Actually there was a small increase in the value of real estate in the city. There were pockets where values rose and pockets where values fell. The real drops are just starting, and will be reflected in values this year. Gray, it’s my undertstanding that Council reduced the real estate tax rate by something like 20 cents in the past five years. Since RE taxes make up the preponderance of city revenues, if we follow your suggestion, can you advise as to which city service you wish to see reduced or eliminated?
“crd”… “I for one am getting tired of hearing that poor blacks can’t pay their taxes because of historic district values, but no one thinks about older white folks who may have lived up here for twenty or thirty years, are now retired, and have to pay the same taxes.”
That is very true and I wan’t trying to say that it is only the blacks but when you look at the big picture starting from the 1980s onwards when things started to turn around, this makes better sense.
And “gray”, a more realistic picture would be people who make less than $30k per year. I fit into that catagory and if we didn’t have a 2-person income, could not afford to live in Church Hill!
Eric
While Henry Marsh exerts considerable influence, we still ELECT our public officials here in Richmond. I am sure Marsh serves as advisor and often plays a role in local policy decisions, but it is still the voters who decide who is elected to office.
McQuinn has been re-elected over and over again by huge margins. In these elections, she always faced strong opponents, yet the voters continue to vote her back in. Clearly, the majority of voters in this district is satisfied with her service and show up at the ballot box to voice their support. They vote because they think she does a good job, not because they have all been mass-brainwashed by the “Marsh Machineâ€.
I know many people oppose McQuinn and it is certainly their right to express their opposition. I am simply pointing out the fact that McQuinn and her son J.J. enjoy great support by the majority of her constituents.
Also, I am not assuming anything. My comments are directed to a single person, but are broad observations.
I am a little disturbed by some of the racial comments on this thread. I really thought the we as a community had overcome a lot of these racial tensions. I can only hope that by the spotlight this forum sheds on this issue will leading to healing and tolerance in our neighborhood.
Oops – of course I mean “are NOT directed”.
http://books.google.com/books?id=cAMDJoVrzcUC&pg=PA59&l…
Tiny, Read the entire chapter:
“There is no Refuge in Conservatism”
The issue isn’t racial as much as it is how poor and middle class BLACK AND WHITE people have been DOMINATED by CONSERVATIVE politicoes BLACK AND WHITE.
Joe, I am glad you feel like this issue isn’t racially, but it seems that many poster DO think the issue is racial.
#102 Ron, My friends and family members with children making under $65k a year are struggling to support themselves in the city and in the county where, as you know, real estate taxes and sales taxes are significantly less and the public education is better.
High city property taxes and poor public education chases out the lower to middle classes to the county which leaves Richmond with the extremes of upper classes and a huge poor population which hurts the public schools. The rich send their kids to private schools meaning less federal and state dollars flowing into public education and the poor go to school with the poor. To see how bad it can get, just take a look at middle schools in Richmond -that’s what happens when the working class citizens pack up and leave.
Eric, I agree with your number of $30k without children. Maybe there should be some kind of sliding scale for real estate taxes like the one the YMCA uses for memberships. Their monthly fees for family memberships start dropping for those making under $60k.
Ron, Our family is of the educated working class and living in this city in the east end with children is “sleepless nights” stressful. Our taxes are high, our public schools are unsuitable, and private school and college tuition well out of our range; and if we fall ill, we lose our health insurance that we’ve paid monthly for years (I guess that’s what you get for being self-employed). I’ve been talking to a lot of working class citizens and we are tired of paying welfare to the mega wealthy (bailouts, etc) and poor, only to be a hair away from the poor house ourselves. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not against helping the poor, I just don’t believe it’s right to rest the burden on those struggling not to slide into poverty themselves.
Ron, I don’t know what services to cut but if we start attracting the working and middle classes like the counties do, the city will naturally pull in more dollars through sales, services, property/real estate taxes; and the public schools would also see an increase in student population thus an increase in funds. A city with the majority being poor will only increase poverty but maybe the powers at-be want that. Reminds me of my history lessons in Latin American dictatorships.
Gray gets it, Tiny. “A city with the majority being poor will only increase poverty but maybe the powers at-be want that…..”
It is easy to “see” the racial piece. But, please take a moment and “think” it through. If you do, then you will encourage others to “see” beyond the color line.
What do you mean? I merely making an observation that a lot of comments reflect strong racial tensions. Are you suggesting that I should not comment about this?
No. I am suggesting that you “think” it through. Think.
I recently came across this post on Church Hill blog and noticed that my name was smeared and false accusations were made about a posting that was written on January 8th by chgal. Let me first of all say that I am offended that this other individual with my namesake has been mistaken for me. Upon clicking on the posting written by him, the email address of an Anthony Young appears. I would like to clear my name but also comment that chgal your statements are unfounded and inaccurate. I’ve never “bad mouthed” anyone and have great respect for all members of the council. As a professional and involved citizen of the community I am baffled by these statements and accusations and I would like to meet with anyone who would like to discuss ideas, not smear tactics and attacks.
I recently came across the Church Hill blog and noticed that my name was smeared and false accusations were made about a posting that was written on January 8th by chgal. Let me first of all say that I am offended that this other individual with my namesake has been mistaken for me. Upon clicking on the posting written by him, the email address of an Anthony Young appears. I would like to clear my name but also comment that chgal your statements are unfounded and inaccurate. I’ve never “bad mouthed” anyone and have great respect for all members of the council. As a professional and involved citizen of the community I am baffled by these statements and accusations and I would like to meet with anyone who would like to discuss ideas, not smear tactics and attacks.
anthony, welcome to the real world. what is it that qualifies you as a professional? if you have “great” respect for the city council you are either not informed or you are guilty of all unfavorable allegations. talk to the hand.
Appointment Process:
Starting at 4 pm today, city council will begin to interview the 10 candidates who submitted a response to the questionaire propounded by council, and which has previously been posted. During the interview each candidate will have a chance to make a statement, and will be asked to respond to four questions. Based on application, questionaire, interview and question responses, each member of council will score each candidate numerically. There will be three candidates selected as the higest scorers. Those three will then be the subejct of a recalculation; council will think about it, and next Monday make the appointment. Council is attempting to make a political process empirical, which probably will make all advocates mad.
Ron,
You write: “Council is attempting to make a political process empirical, which probably will make all advocates mad.”
The only thing I have heard advocated in this blog has been that the appointment be a bonafide resident of the district. And, now that Newbille has opted to run for the office and not seek the appointment, the discussion has been simply that — a discussion of merits.
Since CC is keeping the public out (we can’ be trusted to be empirical?), where doyou or the members of CC get off talking down to us as if we are a bunch of fools?
BTW, what does Robertson think about the way you outed her e-mail to the players involved with the stadium? Does she know what you did?
Will citizens ever know what the questions were? What the responses were? How the questions were weighted? Or, are we just supposed to sit around like a bunch of little kids waiting to be told what is best for us?
Hey, Joe, I’m glad Ron outted Robertson for the sake of opennnes in government, but sometimes he seems like such a sneaky, stuck-up individual all the time telling us what is “best” for us and how smart he thinks Council is.
Like you, I am tired of being talked down to ……