John Munson has a gentle way of expressing the frustration, as well as the hope, of an entire generation of young African-American men in Chestertown. The grandson of the owners of the beloved, but now torn down, Munson grocery store on Calvert Street, John remembers a time, not so long ago, when the black community was actively engaged in commerce and building businesses. Now there is little sign of that wave of entrepreneurship. With record unemployment in his neighborhood, John and his new organization, SEEDZ, wants to recapture that spirit by offering young men and women a resource to develop their business and spiritual skills as well as recreational opportunities.
John is the first to suggest that his community struggles to overcome a “closed mindset” that limits achievement and ambition. At the same time, without real jobs and economic security that mindset is hard to overcome. With the help of the community, like the Chester River Health System he notes, John feels that all of Chestertown’s residents will have a fair chance to gain financial security.
thatguy says
This man has a good head on him, for the average person living in or around town business growth and job growth is what’s important not will the college but the armory or if a new rail trail will be built. catering to the tourist and the retiree is a good idea for the town, and preserving the historic feel of the town is important, but if the town wants to truly succeed it needs to invest some effort into creating long lasting jobs through the promotion of local business for local residents. The Annapolis and Easton models are what we need to strive for.
MBTroup says
There are many things I agree with. Some I do not. Big thinker though. Glad to see he’s making himself part of the conversation.
Oliver Randall says
I was impressed with John’s direction.
Arlivia Howard says
I feel John is right on track!!! This is why many black people born and raised in Chestertown left for better lives. I grew up in this town and it was never a place to be black. To be a success in yourself was not a feat that was encouraged for blacks. Their were never programs after the sixties that would give a hand up to minitories. For years and till today many black pople traveled to other states and comunities to make a living, but still had homes and raising families in the Chestertown area.
Why not invest in your communities and make life better for everyone?
Chestertown has always been a proud little town until you look on the flip side of the haves and have nots. When a person is proud of himself; he/she becomes a better mate, parent, sibling and most a better person to God and those he lives around.
Mr. Munson, keep up the good works. If only one person prevales; this is the one that can help another, know matter what color.