The civic association was real democracy in action. This is how it must have been in colonial times when neighbors got together to address the problems of the times.
I remember meetings where, in her inimitable fashion, she told developers or politicians to go pound sand. She'd fight them in public and in court with her "Legion of Somertonians" and other Northeast Philly residents.
I remember testifying at the PUC Philadelphia Gas Works meeting with her and other Northeast residents at George Washington High School three years ago.
But, what I'll remember the most is the challenge that she faced about eight years ago to her presidency. Mary Jane knew it would be a close race. Unlike others who in similar situations often do not permit their opposition to appear or speak, Mary Jane Hazell offered both. This included criticism aimed at her. She was a true believer in democracy. And, as it turned out, she was re-elected.
To honor her memory, the best thing Northeast Philadelphia residents can do is to follow her example by getting up off our couches and turning off our televisions and computers.
Get active in town watch, schools and civic associations. Become a political activist or committeeperson.
Take control of your life and community like Mary Jane Hazell did a long time ago.
Myles Gordon, Philadelphia
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