Historical letter from Marie McReynolds. Opinions and allegations about Washington Heights Neighbors meetings remain attributed to the original writer.
It seems a pity that letters of condemnation would come from the same board members that vote- against everything beneficial to Washington Heights Neighbors and against our president, Council Smith.
Every meeting regarding the proposed Community Center was announced, every board member knew of such meetings, every board member was asked to participate in the selection of a site for the center. All the meetings were open to all residents, thereby making it impossible to have secret meetings. I attended them all.
None of the meetings had a “Gag Rule” in effect or any overtones of wanting WHN to pull out of SDCC but rather, a geniune concern for the area of Washington Heights and its residents.
At this point in time, Mr. President, I am sure most of our residents would not want you to resign because it would look like you were taking your ball and bat home.” I am sure you know there are always some who will not agree on anything, anytime, because they are so misinformed even when it comes to such things as our “Freedom of Speech.”
Mr. Smith, I would like to compliment you and Mr. Mike Magrath for the long hours you both so diligently put forth for the proposal for the Community Center.
I am also glad that many city officials are willing to work with us in trying to make this Center a reality for Washington Heights.
And while some of you politicians are “politiching” I can only say we will remember them at the ballot box!
Sincerely, Marie McReynolds, Board Member and Resident
Originally published in The Paper, November 1977.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Archival transcription note: The printed spellings “geniune” and “politiching” are retained.
Original source: SD_Times1977_11.pdf, printed page(s) 2; PDF page(s) 2.
