April 2019 Newletter

O

RV A

TH A SS

CI

L IL

E

URCH H CH

AT I O N O F

NEWSLETTER • April 2019

IN THIS ISSUE PG. 05

Letter from the President

PG. 07

Church Hill: The Gem of Richmond

PG. 11

Committee Reports

PG. 19

Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators

PG. 28

“Holding Space for Community”

Cover Photo By: Annie Sprat

[2] April 2019

MEETINGS & NOTICES Historic Preservation and Land Use Committee Meeting

Generally held on the Tuesday before the board meeting at the Patrick Henry Pub, 2300 E. Broad St. at 6:00pm Upcoming Meeting: April 2 Upcoming Meeting: April 30

CHA of RVA Board Meeting

Generally held on the first Thursday of every month at Patrick Henry Pub, 2300 East Broad St. at 6:00pm Upcoming Meeting: April 4 Upcoming Meeting: May 2

Membership Meeting

Generally held on the third Tuesday of every month in St.John’s Parish Hall, 2401 East Broad St. at 7:00pm Upcoming Meeting: April 16 Upcoming Meeting: May 21 If any member wishes to attend any zoning or board meeting they are most welcome, but please check with Debra Melisi at president@churchhill.org for updated meeting times and dates.

What does Church Hill Look like to you?

Send images to: Newsletter@churchhill.org

CHA Mission

The purpose of this organization shall be to promote a sense of unity and common endeavor among all the residents of the St.John’s CHurch, Church Hill North, and Chimborazo Old and Historic Districs, other residents of the East District, and other interested persons, in order to develop a stable, desirable urban neighborhood.

[3] Church Hill Association

CHA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Debra Melisi President@churchhill.org

Vice President: Alli Alligood vp@churchhill.org

Secretary: Audrey Auyeung secretary@churchhill.org Treasurer: Pam Lipscomb treasurer@churchhill.org

Assistant Secretary: Jon Woods asstsecretary@churchhill.org Assistant Treasurer: Vacant Position assistanttreasurer@churchhill.org

DIRECTORS AT LARGE Reshma Gola

Bill Martin

Chloe Rote

Diana Burkett Historic Preservation and Land Use Chair: Barbra Cotter (804) 677-7647

Past President: Genni Sasnett

VOLUNTEERS Layout & Graphics: Arthur Olivarez arthurolivarezjr@gmail.com

Content Editor/ Ad Sales Coordinator: Celeste Deal newsletter@churchhill.org Phone: (804)644-2862

Church Hill Planters: Marion Macdonald Phone: (804)644-1347

Lead Newsletter Distribution: South: Tom & Eileen Sanders Phone: (804)343-7157

Transportation Committee: Eddie Fendley eddiefendley@gmail.com

North: Sandra Horton Phone: (804)780-1641

Membership Coordinator: Jason Hageman membership@churchhill.org Phone: (804)344-7157

Parks Committee: Barbara Cotter 804-677-7647

For more information on joining the CHA, please see our website at: churchhill.org or fill our the application included in this publication [4] April 2019

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Greetings All, As we look forward to the beauty of Richmond in springtime, family celebrations at Passover and Easter and the promise of April showers bringing May flowers, I wanted to reflect on some things that I am looking forward to in Church Hill.

I look forward to working with new partners to bring a better-than-ever Hogtober to our community in the fall. We are hoping to revive some old traditions and combine them with neighborhood newcomers, to produce a spectacular event for our capital city. Please consider volunteering for this wonderful event…we need beer truck workers…more info to come in the upcoming months.

I also look forward to partnering with Frazier Armstrong at Capital Trees, in the revitalization and beautification of the low line linear gardens along the Capital Trail. She and her team are creating a spectacular canal side green-space setting for all of us to enjoy. Please step forward and help Capital Trees by donating your time and/or resources to this amazing project.

I look forward to working in tandem with the wonderful staff at Richmond Hill. As our neighbors, they are interested in partnering with the CHA to enrich the lives of those in greater Church Hill .

After touring their lovely and tranquil site at last year’s Holiday House Tour, I am excited to share their vision for the future of Church Hill.

I especially look forward to seeing the great work coming out of our CHA committees. These hardworking volunteers are making strides in improving the everyday lives of our residents.

From our Transportation Committee representing our interests at the Shockhoe Valley Streets Improvement meetings to our Community Outreach Committee organizing an event to promote tolerance and understanding, to our Youth & Education Committee meeting with school board members and other officials, to our HPLU Committee striving to strike a balance between promoting growth and protecting history, to our Parks Committee’s dedication to the beautification of our many parks and finally to our new Viewshed Advocacy Committee launching a campaign to remind us of the rich and important history of Church Hill. There is so much happening in our community. Please volunteer to assist on these vital committees and help these dedicated neighbors to help you!!

So in my quest of looking forward to the upcoming year in Church Hill, I implore each of you to find a tiny bit of time to help one of these worthy causes or committees. Together we can make a difference.Happy spring!

All the best,

Debra Melisi, President, CHA of RVA 2019

[5] Church Hill Association

[6] April 2019

Editor’s Note: We have a submission from Peter Lyon Huff, a fourteen-year old Church Hill resident, who is an eighth grade student at Central Montessori Middle School. He hopes to send us other articles in future.

Church Hill: The Gem of Richmond

By Peter Lyon Huff

Ah, Church Hill! With its leafy streets, charming parks, friendly people and personal culture, what’s not to like? Yet many people in the city of Richmond will assert that our fellow Richmonders who live in The Fan, Scott’s Addition, and more will challenge the stance that our neighborhood is truly the “gem” of the city. But what makes it so special?

I believe that there is something that resonates throughout the neighborhood. Whether it is the glowing of a gas lamp in the night, the moss growing between the cracks of worn bricks, the distant sounds of an ethereal wind chime, the lonesome train whistle echoing throughout the skies - there is something that this neighborhood has that can be found nowhere else in this city.

The calling of a bird, the light reflecting off of the spires of a church tower, the smell of freshly baked goods floating through the morning air - what do these have to do in common with Church Hill and its uniqueness?

All of these sounds, sights, experiences and more are tied together in one being - that they all have stories. For me, Church Hill is unique not just for the architecture, or the views, or the delicious food - but the stories that can be found wherever you look. They may call out to you at random times, and you may even forget that they are there. But if you look, you will find them in abundance. Every brick, every tree, every alleyway calls out to one with a certain aura. “I have a story,” they say.

But it is not just the fact that this neighborhood has these stories wherever you look - it is that some, if not most are like watercolor paintings - they fade, the colors mix, and the end result is not one of preciseness. But what it lacks in this category it makes up for in wonder - for some, if not most of these stories have been lost. And yet it is not saddening. It is provoking. For if one can imagine, it adds wonder to living in this neighborhood - that even if you do not know every story, every event - the fact that they are there, waiting, and that they have been for decades - just for somebody to find out.

This neighborhood is a place of stories, those lost and found, touched and untouched, seen and unseen. And that is why Church Hill is so wonderful - from the largest house to the tiniest brick, everything is waiting for you to wonder, to explore, to find its story.

[7] Church Hill Association

[8] April 2019

[9] Church Hill Association

2401 E. Broad St. Richmond, Va. 23223 804.649.7938

Come, Lift Your Spirit!

www.saintjohnsrichmond.org The Rev. Amelie Wilmer, Rector In the Episcopal Diocese of Virrginia

Sundays at St. John‘s Church Holy Communion (no music) Adult Forum, Parish Hall Holy Communion Children’s Chapel, Keeper’s Cottage 11:45 a.m.. Coffee Hour, Parish Hall Nursery available 8:15– 11:45 a.m.

8:15 a.m.

9:15 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

Second Saturday Contemplative Service Eucharist & Rite of Healing Contemplative Music, Quiet, Candlelight, The Second Saturday of Each Month, 5:30 p.m.

We are a caring, spiritual community joyfully embracing and nurturing all, serving God, each other, and the community.

Wednesday Evening Formation During Lent Beloved Community

Each Wednesday March 13-April 10 in the Parish Hall 6:00 p.m. Simple Supper 6:40 p.m. Discussion and Study

Holy Week April 14, 10:00 a.m.—Palm Sunday Procession & Eucharist April 18, 7:00 p.m.—Maundy Thursday Eucharist & Foot Washing April 19, 7:00 p.m.—Good Friday Liturgy with Reserved Sacrament April 20, 7:00 p.m.—The Great Vigil of Easter

Thursday Evening Prayer, Rite II 5:30 p.m. in the Parish House (2319 E. Broad St.)

O God, creator of life and giver of gladness, let us be your Beacon on the Hill, shining your light so brightly that others may come to know you, to love, and to be loved.

Help us to reach out to those around us, bearing fruit through acts of kindness,

Easter Day April 21, 8:15 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.—Holy Eucharist 12:00 p.m.—Easter Egg Hunt & Coffee Hour

[ 10 ] April 2019

Committee Reports MEETING SUMMARY VIEWSHED COMMITTEE The second meeting of the CHA’s Viewshed Advocacy Committee was held at the Parish House of St. John’s Church on March 4th with a dozen committee members in attendance.

Discussion on a number of on-going topics included: •Creating a new ‘History’ file on the CHA website to house the many documents written over the years that establish the significance of the Libby Hill Park viewshed.

•Staying in contact with the City website for the Richmond 300 Master Plan, with the idea of joining as subcommittees with citizen input are formed.

•Monitoring the Pulse Corridor Plan as it moves closer to Shockoe Bottom, (The Scotts Edition rezoning is complete and the Monroe Ward area is currently in process).

•Continuing close contact by our subgroup with City Planning and also with interested developers to push for a TOD-H zoning designation for the Main St. corridor.

The VAC will maintain a list of local and statewide entities such as Scenic Virginia, Preservation Virginia, the Route #5 Corridor Coalition, the Capital Region Land Conservancy, neighborhood groups, and many others that support our vision for appropriate development. We think it critical to our success to seek and to exchange information for mutual support whenever appropriate.

We are charged with establishing a definitive method for identifying critical viewsheds to be shared with the City - likely with the help of an engaged land surveyor.

In summary, protecting historic views from the many vantages of Church Hill can be of benefit to all her citizens. To help spread the word, we’ll be providing information for display at the new Market @ 25th Our next scheduled meeting will be Monday, May 6th.

Submitted by Eugenia Anderson-Ellis

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE UPDATE Help make Church Hill’s streets and sidewalks safer!

The Church Hill Association Transportation Committee welcomes you and your ideas at any of our spring meetings: Thursday March 21, Thursday April 18, and Thursday May 16 at 7:00 p.m. at Patrick Henry Pub. The Committee continues to engage with the city on planned improvements for Williamsburg Road at East Main Street, Jefferson Avenue, East Broad Street by Chimborazo Park, and North 29th Street In addition, we are now working with city staff toward three new neighborhood safety improvements: South 21st Street & East Dock Street; East Franklin Street east of North 29th Street; and the restoration of the historic staircase between East Main Street and North 27th Street & Franklin Street. [ 11 ] Church Hill Association

At our spring meetings, the committee will also consider new issues, including e-scooters and bikeshare, Church Hill transit service, on-street parking, and sidewalk maintenance.

Submitted by Ed Fendley

CHA HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND LAND USE COMMITTEE (HPLUC) MARCH MEETING: 2/5/2019 REPORT Following action items were recommended for presentation to CHA’s full membership Both are projects of Enoch Pou, Jr., developer.

1. 3629 & 3631 East Broad Street – Special Use Permit (SUP) Application. The owner has the eastern duplex -- 3629 E Broad St -- and its adjoining land is where this new property will be built, the last lot on East Broad Street (south side) will be divided so that a new home (infill) can be constructed on the proposed 3631 site.

The SUP request has several components: • a zoning variance on the width of the front property line.

• approval to have two parking spots on the property in front of the residence (CAR did not approve such but recommended seeking a waiver on the parking requirement and other approaches).

2. 411 N 22nd Street – He is asking for our support for the BZA application: request for a setback variance to build a new, detached, single-family home on the vacant lot at the referenced address. The lot rests at the alley between East Marshall St and Jefferson AvenueCAR has scheduled the conceptual review for 3/26, with final review, tentatively planned for 4/23. BZA has tentatively scheduled this for the May meeting.

Conservation Easement/Triangular Site at Peach & E Main Streets: Louis Salomonsky will be getting a permit to begin the work very shortly and has now added a sprinkler system to the plans that will help with the long-term maintenance and protection of the trees. The documents for the conservation easement are being completed. The transfer to Guy Blundon, purchaser of Pear Street properties will occur after the full implementation of the conservation easement.

Future of St. Paul’s Church on Marshall: David Lynch, a local resident, noticed that St. Paul’s Church on 26th and Marshall and its associated lots are for sale. He believes that the church could both be maintained as a historic property and repurposed into Church Hill’s own brewery. The plan would be to create a vibrant local business in the church’s unique historical setting, one that would reflect the neighborhood’s character and continue to be a gathering space for the local community. He and others would not want to undertake this initiative if the community or association had objections. HPLUC provided some general feedback: we would be opposed to changing the zoning to light industrial, but could possibly consider this if approved through an SUP, given the neighborhood focus and that several restaurants and food places are within that and the next block. More detailed feedback can be provided when a specific plan is in place that defines the project fully and identifies the uses of all lots.

Viewshed: Eugenia Anderson-Ellis and/or Genni Sasnett gave an update their first meeting.

Pear Street Project: Barbara Cotter showed the revised drawing with the latest changes on the part of Guy Blundon. Two major points raised were the depth of the windows and the type of material used within the “indent” (brick or aluminum?) and the balconies’ prominent position [rather than being (partially) recessed within the building].

The changes at this point are: • No drive-through but middle part is set back as proposed. [ 12 ] April 2019

• Use of steel-based structure. Pre-fab external wall panels will be of thin brick (secured mechanically) and will include windows, wiring, etc.

• This use of steel will permit having an additional floor at the south end of the building.

• The rooftop on south end will include two outside terrace with a type of clubhouse between them.

• HVAC will be in the parking area and on roof where the mechanicals will be screened by 5’ panels (higher if needed).

• This end will have office and fitness center in levels one and two.

• Five curb cuts have been reduced from 5 to 2 that will allow for more parking and a more continuous and safer sidewalk. All inside parking will be accessed from just two points.

• Changes permit more parking and some additional apartments.

• Stone will be used as the base of the building along Pear Street.

• City has requested a sculpture facing end of Cary Street.

(Note: We need to review changes to issue the final letter of approval on the exterior features.)

Submitted by Barbara Cotter

PARKS AND BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE – March 2019 Newsletter Report Last meeting was February 25.

Chimborazo Friends had their volunteer clean-up day on March 2nd and had great support with 50+ volunteers. Gill Frank, President of the group, organized and led the effort. They also cleaned up Chimborazo Playground.

For the first week of April, we are planning events, for Libby Hill Park and Taylor’s Hill (behind Richmond Hill). The last day, April 6th, will be our Libby Hill Park mulching date; we are collaborating with Planters and Friends of Libby Hill Park on this. More specific information will be out t as we solicit volunteers.

We added Taylor’s Hill Park to our list as Melinda Skinner shared her extensive list of concerns. Hopefully, Richmond Hill will work closely with us on this endeavor.

Christopher McQuale committed to look at Patrick Henry Park to see what is needed to protect the old trees during a special event -- specifically the Irish festival at the end of March as they use this park for various activities.

Submitted by Barbara Cotter

[ 13 ] Church Hill Association

GREAT DOCTORS — RIGHT DOWN THE HILL Close, convenient care is nearby at Bon Secours Canal Crossing Internal Medicine.

Vicki Latham, MD

Bon Secours Canal Crossing Internal Medicine offers adult primary care, senior care, annual physicals, women’s services, immunizations, checkups and more.

Compassionate care for all adults, at all stages of life, is right next door to Church Hill.

Offering same-day appointments and accepting new patients—call (804) 298-3460.

Katie Skiff, NP

Canal Crossing Internal Medicine 115 South 15th Street Suite 501 Richmond, VA 23219

bonsecours.com/richmond

Sarah Meyers, PA

IS IT TIME TO MAKE A MOVE…

MAKE IT WITH AMY BEEM AND THE RIGHT MOVE REAL ESTATE INC.

BE SURE TO ASK ABOUT MY RESIDENTIAL LISTING PACKAGES AND UNIQUE MARKETING STRATEGIES.

Amy is not just another Real Estate Agent. She has called Church Hill home since 2005.

Call or Text Today 804-516-1007

[ 14 ] April 2019

[ 15 ] Church Hill Association

Hello Church Hill.

Indow window inserts are historic review board approved.

Here’s why: they can’t be seen from the outside and they don’t damage original windows. They simply press into the interior of your windows to make them perform better than new, blocking drafts and quieting noise.

They fit most shapes and sizes. No disruptive construction, no ugly modifications.

Just your original windows, but without the drafts.

For local consultation, estimates, measurement and installation. Call Curt today at 804.364.1965 curt.nuenighoff@supergreensolutions.com Mention this ad and get $50 OFF your first purchase. Offer expires 5/15/19.

See video demos and performance data at www.indowwindows.com

churchill-Full Pg-5-15-19-bw-Indow Ad-03-07-19.indd 1

[ 16 ] April 2019

3/7/19 11:07 AM

Great balls of fire!

IT’S TIME FOR THE

GARGANTUAN AND ALL OVERSHADOWING

HYSTERIC ALL CHURCH HILL

YARD SALE 2800 BLOCK OF EAST FRANKLIN STREET

LIBBY HILL PARK

Sunday, June 2

nd

FROM 9 AM / OPEN TO EVERYONE ALL ARE ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE No spaces assigned - Set up as early as you like.

The shade tree spots in the park go fast.

Come early - Turn your trash into cash.

Wholesome fun for the entire family!

For more details contact: Chuck Wrenn 512-5286 or Marilyn Stroh 648-2109

[ 17 ] Church Hill Association

[ 18 ] April 2019

Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators It is spring, and we may see all sorts of wildlife around us. If you see an injured animal, this list might help – reach out to help the animal by calling someone who can help and is licensed to do so. The following is a list of licensed rehabilitators in Richmond from the Virginia Dept. of Game and Inland Fisheries.`For more information please go to https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/.

There are licensed rehabilitators in all counties and most cities in Virginia.

Please remember it is illegal to keep or care for orphaned, sick, or injured wildlife unless you are a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

Please be mindful that rehabilitators are private citizens. Telephone calls to thet rehabilitators should be limited to daytime hours only if at all possible.

Name

City

Phone

Species

Carolyn Clay

Richmond

(804)378-2000

Any High risk rabies species

Lucy Kilgore

Richmond

(540)942-9453

Amphibians Birds Fawns High risk rabies species Mammals Raptors

Christopher Patterson

Richmond

(804)378-2000

April Rice

Richmond

(804)378-2000

Any High risk rabies species

Barbara Slatcher

Richmond

(804)447-1198

Birds Raptors

Melissa Stanley

Richmond

(804)378-2000

Any High risk rabies species

Any

GARDEN SWAP MEET By: Melissa, Pomona Plants and Coffee

Having a business in and near Church Hill has led me to understand just how generous our neighbors are. When my shop was on Marshall Street, plant enthusiasts were dropping by to share a clipping, a bundle of seeds, a retired pot, some bulbs. It occurred to me that I must find a way to share the wealth!

Last year we held our first “Garden Swap Meet” and raised money for the Enrichmond Foundation to purchase tools for their efforts to clean up Evergreen Cemetery. It was so much fun to see neighbors trading dug up shrubs for a bird bath, or a gardening book for seeds,that we decided to do it again.

On May 5th we will host our second “Garden Swap Meet” and donate raised monies towards efforts to revitalize lower Chimborazo Park. So while you clean your sheds and yards between now and then, save any plants, bulbs, pots, or tools that no longer serve you. We will give each item a $2, $5, $10, or $20 value. You will receive a coupon that will allow you to “purchase” items that equal your donation value.

Other shoppers without donations can purchase items at assigned value and the proceeds go to the cause! It is a great way to trade plants and tips, meet neighbors, and give new life to useful items.

See you May 5th, 12pm-5pm at Pomona Plants and Coffee/2025 Venable Street. If you have any questions call the shop at 804 269-5395 or email pomonaplants@gmail.com

[ 19 ] Church Hill Association

322 N. 25th St.

644-8200

www.ChurchHillAnimalHospital.com Our Treatment Specialties Include: · General medicine · Routine dental cleaning · Surgical extractions using advanced dental equipment · Soft tissue surgery

On-Site Specialized Equipment Includes: · Digital · Dental equipment radiography · ECG · In-house lab · Pulse oximetry

We treat Dogs & Cats

Thank you for letting us care for your pets! [ 20 ] April 2019

Church Hill, It’s never easy to start a revolution.

Presenting Patrick Henry Square 313 North 24th Street Richmond VA 23223

17 Apartments 6500 square feet of Commercial Space 2 Bedroom\2bathroom Live work Now leasing for August 2016 Occupancy Contact Joshua Bilder for more information 804.306.3089 Mobile 804-359-5018 Office (Website under construction) www.patrickhenrysquare.com Another quality Sterling Bilder LLC Development [ 21 ] Church Hill Association

[ 22 ] April 2019

No CAR Restrictions on this one...

Paint it whatever color you want!

Send it in for extra credit (or call us to sell your CAR-approved beauty)

Linchpin Real Estate Group was formed in 2011 by Amy Tesauro & Catherine Gilmer, who have over 25 years combined experience selling real estate in the Richmond Area.

(Left to Right) Amy Tesauro, Associate Broker and Church Hill resident Erin King, Director of Operations; Catherine Gilmer, REALTOR ÂŽ 804.292.0852 linchpin@linchpinrealestate.com linchpin.kw.com [ 23 ] Church Hill Association

ARE YOU A SIDEWALK ENVIRONMENTALLIST? It is spring, and our brick sidewalks have grass growing in between the bricks Many people try using various herbicides to kill the grass; this can harm pets as well as adding chemicals to rain water runoff. Here is a safer tip to use for controlling the grass and weeds, if you don’t want to get down and pull them out from between the bricks.

Just boil some water and pour it on the grass beginning to show itself between the bricks. It will kill the grass but not harm the soil and there will be no toxic runoff. It works really well if it is done early before the grass grows too long.

It still kills the grass if done later but is a little more work.

You will have to do it periodically during the growing season but it takes little time, is effective and environmentally friendly.

-Tip sent in by concerned neighbor with brick sidewalks

[ 24 ] April 2019

[ 25 ] Church Hill Association

Casual & family-friendly dining located at the heart of Church Hill in the Historic East End Theatre Building

HAPPY HOUR EVERYDAY 3PM - 7PM

BURGER NIGHT jjjjjjjjjjjj

BRUNCH

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

9am - 2pm

mondays 5–10pm house burger $7 specialty burgers & drink specials

TACO TUESDAY taco specials all day

WINGS-DAY 5 wings for $5 all day Specialty flavors available

Mon-Wed: 11am-10pm Thurs-Fri: 11am-11pm Sat: 9am-11pm Sun: 9am-10pm

@thelibertyrva

804.225.8275 • www.thelibertyrva.com • 418a N. 25th Street [ 26 ] April 2019

details matter

[ 27 ] Church Hill Association

“Holding Space for Community�

By Jabriel M. Hasan

As the first snow of the season mounted up on cars and covered the walkways leading up to our entrances, a steady stream of locals on the Church Hill Holiday Tour flowed through the hallways until nightfall.

As residents, we were amazed at the many visitors who trod through deep snowfall to experience the neighborhood attractions, and we pondered that oh, so common sense of surprise expressed by those who lived in the neighborhood but, until that moment, had yet to encounter what lay behind the postbellum bricks and iron.

We are Richmond Hill. We are an ecumenical community of residents, volunteers, activists, and clergy working to transform Metropolitan Richmond into a more loving, just, and inclusive city one prayer at a time and striving to be a place of refreshment and oasis amidst the noise of urban life and current events.

The story goes like this: In August of 1866, the Sisters of the Visitation of Monte Maria were called to this hill to pray for the city in the aftermath of The Civil War. After operating a school, a bakery, and a printing press, they put the property up for sale when they decided they wanted to relocate to Rockville, Va. to be cloistered. A real estate developer, admiring the views afforded by such a location, was first in line to purchase the property. Nevertheless, by grace, a group of Christians from various denominations, spearheaded by the Rev. Ben Campbell, closed the sale.

Since 1987, the residential community has been praying for the city at 7 a.m., noon, and 6 p.m. each day in a commitment to the healing of Metropolitan Richmond through prayer, hospitality, [ 28 ] April 2019

spiritual development and racial reconciliation. We currently house thirteen residents, but, on weekends when we offer space for retreats, it seems like more. It is then that the gate opens at 7 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m. to allow for the constant movement of retreatants and other visitors.

As I near the end of my two year commitment here as an Urban Service Corps Intern, after all the dishes I’ve cleaned, the toilets I’ve wiped, and the social media I’ve managed, what continues to astound me is just how much time we devote to opening doors--especially considering that a relatively private group of nuns occupied the space for 120 years.

Over the course of my time here, I’ve seen doors open to masses of joyous, angsty teenagers from the Armstrong Leadership Program, a leadership academy operating out of Richmond Hill for area youth attending Armstrong High School. I’ve seen clergy, representing over 60 local faith communities of various denominations, breaking bread around the refectory tables at our annual Clergy Convocation. As an intern, I’ve been afforded the opportunity to comfort the sick at Richmond Community Hospital, Church Hill’s neighborhood healthcare provider. I’ve heard truth spoken to power when we’ve exercised the commitment to healing and racial reconciliation at seminars like our Koinonia School of Race & Justice, as downtown power brokers and the descendants of “Old Richmond” families gathered with the descendants of the enslaved to study school districting inequities and walk The Trail of Enslaved People. I’ve been immersed in the calls for justice as a monk chanted affirmations in the chapel by candlelight for the people of Buckingham County in their fight against the construction of a compressor that would affect quality of life. I’ve recalled the tension that soaked the undersleeves of my shirt while sitting in a heated session of the Community Trust Building Fellowship facing two women, one Black and one White, who could both trace their ancestry to Robert E. Lee. It all happens here, where every end and side of the city collide and connect. An afternoon stroll away from the landmark monument to Confederate Sailors and Soldiers, up the hill from the river that capped John Smith’s journey into what was, for him, a new world, we engage the tedious work of repairing the breach. At the highest hill in the city, as the native people did for millenia, we continue to pray. We continue to hold the space for healing to happen.

[ 29 ] Church Hill Association

CHURCH HILL CONTACTS Delegate Jeffery Bourne Virginia House of Delegates (804)698-1071 Mayor Levar Stoney City of Richmond 900 E.Broad St.,2nd Floor (804)646-7970 7th District Richmond City Council Member Cynthia Newbille (804)646-3012 cburke2@rvaschool.net 7th District Richmond City School Board Member Cheryl Burke (804)929-6894 Richmond City School Board: (804)780-7716

POLICE AND SAFETY

Emergencies: 911 Non-Emergency Police: (804)646-5100 1st Precinct Station Front Desk, staffed most hours: (804)646-3602 Fire Station #1: (804)646-4229 Church Hill Crime Watch: (804)343-3628 Commonwealth’s Attorney/Sector Prosecutor: Colette McEachin: (804)646-4845 Lt. Minton: (804)646-0574, cell (804)240-9158 Daniel.Minton@richmondgov.com Lt. Jeremy Sayles: Cell (804)283-0856 Sector Lieutenant Lt. Ken Roane: (804)646-0574, Ken.Roane@richmondgov.com

NEIGHBORHOOD MAINTENANCE

Citizen’s Assistance: (804)646-7000 Citizen’s Request Service Online: http://eservices.ci.richmond.va.us/applications/ citizensrequest/frmNewEntryType.asp# City of Richmond Public Utilities: (804)646-3000 Code Violations Related to Historic Preservation: (804)646-7550 carey.jones@richmondgov.com Commission of Architectural Review: (804)646-7550 Zoning Administration: (804)646-6340 Housing Code Enforcement: (804)646-6419 Environmental Control: (804)646-7448 Graffiti Hotline: (804)646-1406 Truancy Hotline: (804)646-ABCD Northeast District Parks Maintenance: (804)646-6419

STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Governor Ralph Northam Virginia State Capitol, 3rd Floor (804)786-2211 Senator Rosalyn R. Dance Virginia Senate District 16, Capitol Office (804)698-7516 district16@senate.virginia.gov Delegate Delores L. McQuinn Virginia House of Delegates 70th District General Assembly Building (804)698-1070 Senator Jennifer L. McClellan Virginia Senate (804)698-7509 delkmcclellan@house.state.va.us

EAST DISTRICT AGENCIES

East District Families First: (804)646-4508 EDI-W.I.C: (804)646-0775 Health Center: (804)780-0840 Social Services: (804)646-7212 VA. Cooperative Extension: (804)786-4150

RICHMOND RESOURCES

Animal Control: (804)646-5573 (804)646-0546 Better Housing Coalition: (804)644-0546 Black History Museum: (804)780-9093 Richmond CenterStage: (804)225-9000 Children’s Museum of Richmond: (804)474-7000 Edgar Allan Poe Museum: (804)648-5523 Historic Richmond Foundation: (804)643-7407 James RIver Association: (804)788-8811 Library of Virginia: (804)692-3500 Museum of the Confederacy: (804)6491886 Richmond Ballet: (804)344-0906 Richmond Coliseum: (804)262-8100 Richmond National Battlefield Park: (804)771-2148 Richmond Symphony: (804)788-1212 Science Museum of Virginia: (804)367-6552 St. John’s Church Visitor Center: (804)648-5015 Valentine Richmond History Center: (804)649-0711 Venture Richmond: (804)788-6466 Virginia Historical Society: (804)358-4901 Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: (804)340-1400 Virginia Opera: (804)643-6000 Virginia War Memorial: (804)786-2060

[ 30 ] April 2019

2019 MEMBERSHIP IN THE CHURCH HILL ASSOCIATION (CHA) Join and enjoy discounts at many restaurants and local businesses by showing your card!!! CHA of RVA Members receive one-time discounts at local businesses plus 5% all year at Alexander’s Cleaners: RESTAURANTS & OTHER EATERIES 8-1/2 on Church Hill – 10% (excludes groceries and alcohol)) 2709 E Marshall St - 804-788-0812 23rd & Main Taproom - 15% 2302 E Main St - 804.788.7077 Alamo Barbecue – 10%

2202 Jefferson Ave - 804.592.3138 Dutch & Company – 15% (excludes alcohol and prix fixe menu) 400 N 27th St - 804.643.8824 Liberty Public House – 15% 418A N 25th St - 804.225.8275 Metzger Bar & Butchery – 15% 801 N 23rd St – 804.325.3147 Millie’s Diner - 15% 2603 E Main St - 804.643.5512 Nile (Ethiopian Bistro & Café) – 10% 306 N 29th St – 804.648.0791 Nota Bene restaurant and lounge – 15% 2110 E Main St - (804) 477-3355 Patrick Henry’s Pub & Grille – 15% 2300 E Broad St – 804.644.4242 Poe’s Pub - 15% 2706 E Main St - 804.648.2120 Proper Pie – 10% 2505 E Broad St – 804.343.7437 Sub Rosa Bakery – 10% 620 N 25th St - 804.788.7672 The Hill Café - 15% 2800 E Broad St - 804.648.0360 Union Market – 15% (prepared food/meals, excludes groceries) 2306 Jefferson Ave - 804.716.7233 WPA Bakery – 10% 2707 E Marshall St - 804.716.9797 OTHER BUSINESSES C. Alexander’s Cleaners – 5% off ALL cleaning orders 2007 Venable St -- 804.658.4466 Eric Schindler Gallery – 10% off up to 3 art works 2305 E Broad St - 804.644.5005 Luminary Hair Company – 20% off service/treatment 402 N 25th Street – 804.344.7072 Antione Shaw - 10% off first lawncare and landscaping service 804-833-0667 Antioneshaw1255.as@gmail.com Pets at Play - 5% off service 319 N 25th St - 804.343.7387 Richmond Balance – free 1-hour personal training session 1806 E Main St- 804.225.7130 Seven Hills Studio – 20% discount to new clients

501 N 25th St – 804.344.0620

CHA MEMBERSHIP FORM

Sign up through the website, email, or in person at CHA meetings: 1. For the website, go to: http://www.churchhill.org/membership/ 2. Mail the form below to PO Box 8031 Richmond, VA 23223 or 3. Bring the form to the next membership meeting or CHA event.

Membership is Individual (not by household) and is valid one year from date of joining. Note: Email is used only for communicating information to members.

New Member ( )

Renewing Member ( )

Date:

MEMBER NAME #1 ________________________________ Email: ____________________________________ MEMBER NAME # 2 ________________________________ Email: ____________________________________ ADDRESS, street, city, zip: ___________________________________________________________________________ Member # 1 Phone: ______________________________ Member # 2 phone: _________________________

Cash: _______Check: ______ (Make check payable to the CHA) $30 per person x ____ For office use: Membership card ( )

List ( ) [ 31 ] Church Hill Association

CC ( )

members = $ ______

[ 32 ] April 2019