On Mother's Day I like many residents I'm sure visited the grave sites of grandmas, moms, and aunties to commemorate this special day. Only upon entering the grounds of Pleasant Shade Cemetery it was anything but a commemorative experience. The grounds were generally poorly maintained with overgrown grass and debris. It was depressing to say the least and it in no way honors the lives of those buried there. Thos who call Pleasant Shade Cemetery their final resting place include the first African American major of Newport News, Mayor Jessie M. Rattley and attorney and civic leader C. Thomas Newsome.
I contacted the City Manager's office and the dept. Of Codes and Compliance, spoke with Louis Roman, who was very helpful but unable to provide valuable information on the oversight of the property. You see, Pleasant Shade Cemetery, is located partly in Hampton and partly in Newport News, so who bears the responsibility for code violations. Each agency has passed the buck.
On Saturday, May 28, a community forum is being held at the Newsome House to shed light on the restoration and upkeep of cemeteries in the Commonwealth. I'd say the timing couldn't be better.in the meantime, I would like more accountability on the part of the business and oversight by the Codes and Compliance departments in both Hampton and Newport News.
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