Volunteers dig in

By Bob Stuart

Published: September 27, 2008

Virginia’s top lawyer got hands, and feet, dirty Saturday helping Staunton residents beautify the Johnson Street area near the Booker T. Washington Community Center and to remind gangs they are not welcome.

Virginia Attorney General Bob McDonnell joined community leaders and others as part of a special day to show renewed pride in the neighborhood.

There was also music, food, free eye and blood-pressure exams and other activities as part of the community day.

Before he planted bushes and plants in a park next to the community center, McDonnell explained how a special regional gang prosecutor, Assistant Attorney General Phil Figura, has helped slow what was a growing gang problem in Staunton.

McDonnell said several members of the 9 Trey Bloods, a local version of the West Coast Bloods, were indicted in the past couple of years.

“I would have never thought you would have to deal with the Bloods,” said McDonnell during a brief speech to the crowd. “But you have stood up and said you won’t take that.”

McDonnell said showing community spirit was one way of deterring gangs from spending further time in Staunton. He said Saturday was a positive day.

“It’s a community day. The community and business leaders and law enforcement are coming together,” said McDonnell, who said tremendous progress has been made in fighting the Valley’s gang problem.

Figura said Saturday was about “sustainable change” in Staunton.

In addition to plants, a new swing set was being assembled in the park with materials donated by area businesses such as Blue Ridge Lumber of Fishersville.

Staunton Mayor Lacy King said McDonnell’s presence sent a message to the community.

“To have the attorney general spend time here shows his commitment,” King said.