Francis Stevens has been working hard to win the VA House 65th seat. Many members of LWCC, Liberal Women of Chesterfield County & Beyond, have been helping him make inroads in a traditionally red district, that is starting to change. They have been busy knocking doors — talking and listening to folks who live in this, both suburban and rural area, to hear what they most need from a representative. Once you meet Francis, you catch his enthusiasm for making the 65th an even better place to work and live.
From the Stevens for Delegate website —
My grandfather told me, “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.” My record as a public servant shows that I care: I am a twelve year veteran police officer for The Commonwealth of Virginia, I have served on the Petersburg City Council, and I have served on the Virginia Asian Advisory Board and The Fair Housing Board, having been appointed by Governor Bob McDonnell.
To find out more about Francis Stevens and his ideas for the VA House 65th District, visit STEVENS4DELEGATE
To donate directly to Francis Stevens’ campaign to turn the 65th from Red to Blue, visit DONATE
Recently, I asked Francis some questions about, both, his childhood and his hopes for his community.
Wright: Who was your favorite superhero when you were a kid?
Francis Stevens: Growing up in the Philippines, I would always watch Batman and Robin. If I remember correctly, the show was in black and white when it first came out.
Wright: Who is your favorite superhero now?
Francis Stevens: Well, I still like Batman, but I think it would have to be my mother. During the People’s Power Revolution in the Philippines, she and millions of Filipinos took to the street to protest Marcos’ dictatorial rule. She, along with others, stood in front of oncoming military vehicles to prevent the loyalist soldiers from advancing to the rebel soldiers’ camp. She, and others, risked their lives for freedom. Her courage amazed me.
Wright: What occupation did you want to be when you grew up?
Francis Stevens: I wanted to be a Naval Officer. Growing up, I had relatives who were in the U.S. Navy.
Wright: What occupation did you actually become?
Francis Stevens: I am 12 year veteran police office, and I work for the State of Virginia. Prior to this I was in retail management for 15 years.
Wright: What is your favorite season in VA and why?
Francis Stevens: I love Spring. I love seeing things come back to life – plants, trees, flowers, birds. It’s a beautiful sight.
Wright: What is your favorite aspect about your community and the people that live there?
Francis Stevens: Since I have lived here, I have seen the county becoming more diverse. I am glad to see this happening – diversity in ethnicity and religion can bring a diverse way of thinking that can be healthy for a vibrant community.
Wright: Who taught you "wrong from right"?
Francis Stevens: My family taught me – my grandparents, aunts and uncles.
Wright: What is your favorite book or poem?
Francis Stevens: I have almost read all the books written by David Badacci and John Grisham.
Wright: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Francis Stevens: Being a father is an accomplishment I am proud of. To see my kids grow and prosper intellectually, spiritually, and have a kind heart towards the least fortunate, is a very satisfying feeling.
Wright: What do you wish to accomplish once you win the House of Delegates seat for District 65?
Francis Stevens: There are a lot of things I would like to accomplish as a Delegate – I will work to expand Medicaid, expand access to broadband, ensure that our infrastructure (water, sewer, roads, and power grids) are up to date. Ensure that our schools continue to be the best, and we have the necessary funding so that our public servants (teachers, first responders, police, state employees, and so on) can do their jobs.