Photos By John HoffThere was both chaos and calmness at today's 2 PM press conference at the JACC office. Chaos came from shouted questions, arguments, and something that almost turned into an altercation. Police were called, but apparently nobody was arrested. (Still trying to confirm this information)
Calmness was evident in the demeanor of Michael Browne, chair of the "New Majority" group which has been recognized by city officials (and, reportedly, NRP) as the official leadership of the Jordan Neighborhood. The board composition recognized by city officials includes the faction I have called the "Old Majority," led by--it appears--Ben Myers, though statements are being issued in the name of E.B. Brown, the former chair. (Which the "Old Majority" views as still the current chair instead of Michael Browne, according to their statement distributed at the same press conference)
Calmness was also evident in the personality of Ben Myers who apparently played a role in smoothing out the situation when police arrived to deal with a man--reportedly named Al Flowers, still trying to confirm this--who heckled and harangued Michael Browne during the press conference, at various points shouting "questions" (more like long statements) at the top of his lungs.
There was much shouting, much loud talk about who was or was not being "respectful," and even pointed accusations from more than one party about how a "coup" had taken place in the ouster of board members from their executive positions of chair, vice-chair, etc.
It was revealed that, in addition to office equipment and files going back to the beginning of 2007, the checkbooks for the JACC organization are also missing.
It was tough for any of the press who were there--mostly bloggers, it seemed--to get in questions edgewise. The "press conference" turned into a loud community meeting with folks shouting accusations at each other. And yet, even in this colorful chaos, there was evidence of a community aligning itself and dealing with its issues. On the steps, a young man talked to State Rep Linda Higgins about the need for more money for youth programs.
Michael Browne, forced to speak to press from inside an office as loud discussions took place in the central community room, stated his commitment to "livability" issues and emphasized that boarded, vacant houses impact the neighborhood residents the same, regardless of the color of their skin, and a neighborhood organization must focus on livability issues.
Much more to follow.
(Do not click "Read More")
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