Richmond Free Press August 12-14, 2021 edition by Richmond Free Press

VOL. 30 NO. 33

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA

www.richmondfreepress.com

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Meet board chair of Voices for Virginia’s Children B1

AUGUST 12-14, 2021

Jury still out After a year on the job, Richmond Police Chief Gerald Smith has not won over many officers or residents either through style or substance By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Police Chief Gerald Smith consoles the mother of one of the victims injured in gun violence April 27 at the Belt Atlantic Apartments in South Side. Sharnez Hill, 30, and her 3-month-old daughter were killed in the shooting and three others, ages 29, 15 and 11, were wounded. Chief Smith marched with scores of people attending a rally sponsored by Men in Action on May 1 calling for an end to the violence. The group marched from George Wythe High School to the apartment complex, where Chief Smith tried to comfort the mother.

A year ago, Gerald M. Smith was introduced to the city as an “innovator” and a “reform-minded change agent” as Mayor Levar M. Stoney introduced him as Richmond’s new police chief. “Gerald Smith is who Richmond needs right now — a reform-minded leader with deep experience in community policing and de-escalation,” said Mayor Stoney, who tapped him on the recommendation of Rodney Monroe, a former police chief in Richmond and Charlotte, N.C. A year later, there are few signs of reform being accomplished in the department or in its relationship with the community. Just before he started on July 1, 2020, Chief Smith said, “We’re looking for this community to be deeply involved in the police department, and we’re looking to be deeply involved in the community.” As best as can be determined, that hasn’t happened either. Currently, his biggest challenge is fielding enough officers as violence spikes. Homicides and other shooting

crimes are happening almost nightly, and robberies and assaults also are on the rise. It’s a far different scene from when Chief Smith arrived. At the time, the big focus for police was on racial justice protests and preventing further

violence He came just as Richmond began taking down its Confederate statues and demonstrators were nightly clashing with officers. Chief Smith, 52, brought plenty Please turn to A4

Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Chief Gerald Smith walks outside Richmond Police headquarters on Grace Street in Downtown to a news conference on July 27, 2020, following two nights of uprisings in the city. The building had been boarded up and barricaded by a city dump truck, which was burned by demonstrators protesting police abuse and racial injustice. The chief had been on the job less than a month.

State mandates COVID-19 vaccinations for state workers; Richmond School Board to follow suit By George Copeland Jr., Ronald E. Carrington and Jeremy M. Lazarus

First came the universities. Then came the City of Richmond. Then Gov. Ralph S. Northam followed their lead in imposing a mandate on most state employees to get vaccinated against coronavirus. And next Monday, Aug. 16, the Richmond School Board is anticipated to be the first school system in the state to mandate vaccinations for faculty and staff. The new mandate would be on top of a requirement that anyone entering a school building in the city be masked. Ignoring critics, Mayor Levar M. Stoney called it “the right and proper step at a critical moment” on Aug. 4 when he made Richmond the first jurisdiction in the state to require city employees to be vaccinated. While most government entities have yet to follow, these initial mandates reflect growing frustration among officials that millions in Virginia and across the country are refusing to join the fight by getting vaccinated as the new delta variant of the virus spreads like chicken pox. Worries are growing over the increase in new cases and the renewed threat of overcrowding hospitals with unvaccinated people needing ventilators and specialized care. With colleges and universi-

ties set to open in-person classes for the first time in more than a year and public schools to follow, the risk of disease spread are projected to increase. That risk was highlighted this week at Richmond’s charter elementary school. On Monday,

the entire fourth grade at the Patrick Henry School of Science & Arts — 53 students — was sent home to quarantine for 14 days after two classmates tested positive. Please turn to A4

Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Fraternal twins Aniyah Rawl, left, and her brother, Xavier Rawl, 14, pause for a portrait through the frame of the Dodge Daytona Coupe 500 R that they are helping to build under the tutelage of pioneering aviator Barrington Irving with The Flying Classroom project and Richmond Public Schools. The hands-on work is taking place at Richmond Raceway.

Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Tracey Avery-Geter, a nurse practitioner supervisor with the Richmond and Henrico health districts, receiving one of the first two vaccinations given in Richmond of the Moderna vaccine on Dec. 23. Administering the shot is Sara Noble, a clinical nurse manager. Health care workers were among the first group of people eligible for the vaccine under state rules.

Free COVID-19 testing, vaccines Free community testing for COVID-19 continues. The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations: • Thursday, Aug. 12, 10 to 11 a.m., Southwood Resource Center, 1742 Clarkson Road, Apt. A. • Thursday, Aug. 17, 1 to 2 p.m., Hillside Resource Center, 1615 Glenfield Ave. Appointments are not necessary, but can be made by calling the Richmond and Henrico COVID-19 Hotline at (804) 205-3501 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or by registering online at https://bit.ly/RHHDCOVID.

Please turn to A4

Building a race car from the wheels up revs up learning process for RPS students By Ronald E. Carrington

Vroom…. Vroom…Vroom. That’s the sound Armstrong High School students yearn to hear as they build the interior of a Dodge Daytona 500R STEM car in a summer program at Richmond Raceway. For three weeks in July and August, students from after-school learning centers at Armstrong High School, Lucille Brown and River City Middle schools in Richmond and Wilder Middle School in Henrico County have risen to the challenge to help construct the vehicle designed by Factory Five Racing Inc. The project by The Flying Classroom is designed for hands-on learning with a goal to improve student attendance and engage-

ment while introducing them to careers in the automotive industry. The Flying Classroom is a supplemental Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathplus curriculum started by aviator Barrington Irving, who, in 2007 at age 24, became the youngest person and first African-American to fly solo around the world. He turned down football scholarships to follow his dream of becoming an aviator. He had the plane built from the ground up. In 2014, he started The Flying Classroom using his global aeronautic and technical experience to introduce students to STEM career possibilities. This summer’s end game proved exciting Please turn to A4

VSU changes names of 4 buildings to honor history of women at university By Ronald E. Carrington

Virginia State University has taken a monumental step honoring the achievements of African-American women with ties to the school. The university has renamed four of its buildings after women who, since the late 1800s, have made remarkable contributions to the school—Lucretia Campbell, Johnnella Jackson, Otelia S. Howard and Lula Johnson. The VSU Board of Visitors voted to drop the buildings’ previous names because they honored individuals “whose past beliefs were not consistent with the beliefs and legacy of Virginia State University,” officials said. They were white men who were linked to the Confederacy or Jim Crow. The new names are a major change for the university that was founded March 6, 1882, when the state legislature passed a bill to charter Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute. “This is a fantastic thing,” VSU President Makola M. Abdullah said shortly before the unveiling ceremony on campus Aug. 6. “The university had an opportunity to name the buildings after

giants that helped in building Virginia State. As students return to campus, they may not initially appreciate the new names’ relevance today, but they will as they learn more about the legacy of Virginia State.” The buildings and their new names: Lula Johnson Hall, formerly Vawter Hall, is named for the first Black woman to graduate from the university when it was Otelia Shields Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute. Ms. Howard, from a Johnson is believed to be the first woman 1921 graduation to graduate from a Virginia public college. photograph in She attended Virginia Normal and Collegiate “The Crisis.” Institute in the 1890s and became a teacher in Southampton County. Lucretia Campbell Hall, formerly Eggleston Hall, a dormitory, is named for the first Black woman to serve on the university’s faculty. A Petersburg resident, she graduated from VSU in 1896. After returning to the university, she trained future teachers. Johnnella Jackson Hall, formerly Trinkle Hall, is named for

the musician and civil rights activist who penned the music for the university’s alma mater, “Hail Virginia State.” Otelia S. Howard Hall, formerly Byrd Hall, is named for the Petersburg native who served for more than two decades as a professor, adviser and a charter member of two organizations on campus. She taught at Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute, then attended Fisk University, where she earned a bachelor’s in English with high honors in 1921 followed by a master’s from Columbia University in 1926. She was a charter member of VSU’s graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and founded the school’s newspaper, the Virginia Statesman. Dr. Abdullah said alumnae, in particularly, will be proud when they return to campus and see the new names. The renaming, which started five months ago, was approved by the VSU board after a submission by a committee made up of faculty, staff and the university historian Lucious Edwards. They said renaming the buildings would help ensure the campus environment reflects the institution and is a source of pride for Please turn to A4

Richmond Free Press

A10 August 12-14, 2021

Brighter days and bigger smiles are ahead.

$11 billion to Virginia’s K-12 public schools since 1999.

Stories by Fred Jeter

‘Golden girls’

Sydney McLaughlin

Athing Mu

Ashleigh Johnson

U.S. women bring home top medals from the Olympics Red, white and blue added up to a treasure chest of gold at the Tokyo Olympics. Let’s meet the “Golden girls.” Here are a few who shined most on the world’s brightest athletic stage: Runs in the family: Sydney McLaughlin received her gift of speed honestly. Her father, Willie McLaughlin, reached the 1984 U.S. Olympic Trials in the 400 meters and her older brother, Taylor, was an All-American hurdler at the University of Michigan. Also her mother, Mary, who is Caucasian, ran sprints in high school. Sydney first made the U.S. Olympic team in 2016 when she was in high school. While she finished 16th overall then, she cashed in on the biggest prize in the Tokyo Olympics, capturing the gold medal in the 400-meter hurdles in a world record time of 51.46 seconds. She added another gold medal on her 22nd birthday, Aug. 7, by racing the lead-off leg in the 4x400 relay. McLaughlin was on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 2017 and has signed a $1.5 million endorsement with New Balance. She has an “Instagram Official” relationship with Andre Levrone, a former University of Virginia wide receiver who played in the NFL with Baltimore and Jacksonville. Magic on the mats: Tamyra Mensah-Stock became the first

Randolph Ross

Trevor Stewart

Michael Cherry

Black woman to win a wrestling gold medal by mining the 68 kg (150 pound) weight category title in Tokyo. She is just the second U.S. woman to strike Olympic gold in wrestling, following Helen Maroulis in 2016. There were plenty of tears on the podium and in the post-win interview as the 28-year-old Mensah-Stock reminisced about her father, Prince Mensah, a native of Ghana, who died in a 2009 car accident. At the time, he was driving home from watching Tamyra and her twin sister, Tarkyia, in a wrestling match. “He would have been the loudest one here,” Mensah-Stock told the media. “He would have been so proud.” Long time coming: U.S. women had gone 53 years and 12 Olympics since striking gold in the 800 meters. Stretching out her long legs with grace and power, Athing Mu ended the drought. Pronounced “Uh-thing Moe,” the 19year-old from Trenton, N.J., prevailed with Tamyra Mensahan American record of 1:55.21. She became Stock first American to be first to the finish since Madeline Manning in 1968. Mu added another gold medal running the anchor leg of the 4x400 relay. The second of seven children, Mu is of South Sudan ancestry. Mu won both the 400- and 800-meter NCAA titles for Texas A&M University this past spring and has since signed a professional contract with Nike. She appears to have the immense talent to win multiple Olympic titles in the future. What’s different here? In a sport that is overwhelmingly white, Princeton graduate Ashleigh Johnson is widely considered the best water polo goalkeeper in the world. In the 2016 Olympics as the first Black woman to represent the United States in water polo, she helped the Americans win the gold. In 2016, she was also the only woman on the team who wasn’t from California. The 26-year-old, long-armed, 6-foot-1

MVP Tyrese Rice commands Boeheim’s Army to $1M win of TBT

N.C. A&T track stars help U.S. win gold The U.S. Olympic team’s gold medal in the men’s 4x400 relay had a strong Virginia and North Carolina A&T State University flavor. The American men finished first in the competition in a sizzling 2:55.7, with teams from The Netherlands coming in second and Botswana third. North Carolina A&T athletes Randolph Ross of Raleigh, N.C., and Trevor Stewart, who went to South County High School in Lorton, Va., ran legs in the victorious semifinals, earning the Americans the inside pole position in the Olympic finals in the 4x400. The finals lineup, however, was changed to include Michael Cherry of Chesapeake, Michael Norman, Rai Benjamin and Bryce Deadmond. Despite the substitution, Ross and Stewart also received gold medals and $37,500 each for helping the team win the event. Stewart also received $15,000 for running a leg on the U.S. team’s bronze medal showing in the mixed 4x400 relay.

Cherry, 26, starred at Oscar Smith High School in Chesapeake before going on to an All-American career at Louisiana State University. Cherry was fourth in the open 400 in Tokyo, just missing the podium. His time in that race was a personal best 44.21. The only other U.S. gold medal for the men’s track and field went to shot put champion Ryan Crouser.

athlete hails from Miami, where she is part of a family of water polo enthusiasts. Johnson and the U.S. team struck gold again in Tokyo, defeating Spain 14-5 for the crown. “Grayt-ness:” That’s Allisha Gray’s Twitter handle and it fits. Her latest achievement is helping the U.S. women’s team win the inaugural 3x3 basketball title, ranking with team leaders in all statistical categories. The 26-year-old, 6-foot Gray, who plays for the WNBA Dallas Wings, is no stranger to cutting down the nets. In 2017, she led the University of South Carolina to the NCAA crown under Coach Dawn Staley. Gray stood out on the court for her scoring, rebounding, ball handling and defense, Allyson Felix Allisha Gray and also for wearing protective goggles, the result of being poked in the eye. For that, she gave herself a new nickname, “Goggle-lish.” Saving the best for last: Allyson Felix, 35, settled for a bronze in the 400 meters with a time of 49.46, but deserves “Golden Girl Captain” status. The Los Angeles native finishes her brilliant career with 11 Olympic medals — seven gold, three silver, one bronze. The final — a gold medal — came on her leg of the 4x400 relay team in Tokyo. She is now the most decorated American track and field athlete in Olympic history. Felix has represented the United States in five Olympics — 2004 in Athens, 2008 in Beijing, 2012 in London, 2016 in Rio and, finally, Tokyo. Since Rio, she and her husband, Kenneth Ferguson, added a super fan, 2-year-old daughter, Cammy. Could another Golden Girl be in the making?

Tyrese Rice

Tyrese Rice didn’t attend Syracuse University, but the New York institution might consider awarding him an honorary degree. Rice was the leading scorer and named MVP in helping Boeheim’s Army—with many former Syracuse stars—win The Basketball Tournament, or TBT. With longtime Syracuse Coach Jim Boeheim at courtside, the orange and white-clad Army defeated Team 23 for the title 69-67 in Dayton, Ohio, on July 6. The Army went 6-0 overall. The winning team won $1 million, with Rice receiving an $80,000 share. Not every player was compensated equally. Minus an NBA resume, Rice is among the

most celebrated basketball players coming from the Richmond area. A 6-foot-1, left-handed guard with a signature white headband, Rice scored 2,328 points at Chesterfield’s L.C. Bird High School from 2001 to 2005, and 2,099 points at Boston College from 2005 t0 2009. Now 34, Rice has become a legend playing for various countries in the European leagues for the past 12 years. He signed in August 2020 with AEK Athens based in Greece. Rice has remained active in the Richmond area conducting clinics and is always a fan favorite at the annual Summer League at Big Ben’s Home Court.

Former Houston Astros pitcher James Rodney ‘J.R.’ Richard dies at 71 James Rodney “J.R.” Richard was arguably the greatest pitcher of the 1970s and might have been the greatest ever if not for one harrowing event that turned his career, and life, upside down. Mr. Richard, who died at age 71 on Wednesday, Aug. 4, in Houston of complications from COVID-19, suffered a stroke caused by a blood clot in his neck on July 30, 1980. The tragedy occurred prior to a game at the Astrodome in which the Houston Astros pitcher was casually warming up

with a teammate. He was only 30 at the time and as dominant as any pitcher in the big leagues. The 6-foot-8, right-hander attempted a comeback but was never really the same, and his personal life spiraled downward. Prior to the stroke, Mr. Richard posted a 107-71 career mark with a 3.15 earned run average and 1,493 strikeouts. He posted 76 career complete games including 19 in 1976. A native of Louisiana, Mr. Richard

fanned 303 batters in 1978 and 313 in 1979. In 1980, he was 10-4, with a 1.90 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 113 frames. After leaving baseball, Mr. Richard suffered through two divorces and some failed business ventures. At one time, he was living on Houston’s streets. Mr. Richard found religion in his later years and became a minister. He was a member of the Astros Hall of Fame and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum “Hall of Game.”

James Rodney Richard

Richmond Free Press

A2 August 12-14, 2021

Local News

Tax dollars at work By Jeremy M. Lazarus

John Williams, center, a 13-year veteran of the city Department of Public Works, is part of a crew replacing sidewalks in the 3800 block of McGuire Drive in South Side. This is just one of the dozens of sidewalk projects planned or underway in Richmond. One of the largest has involved the replacement of brick sidewalks on 1st Street in Gilpin Court. Mayor Levar M. Stoney has announced that eight miles of sidewalks would be replaced or repaired now through June 30, 2022, the most in decades. In previous years, Richmond budgeted funds to do only a little more than a mile of sidewalk replacement, making only a small dent in the sixyear backlog of citizen requests. In the 2020-2021 fiscal year that ended June 30, “we managed to replace two miles of sidewalks,” Mayor Stoney said, which exceeded the average. He credited new funding from the Central Virginia Transportation Authority, which is collecting and distributing the additional sales and

gas taxes that people pay to support GRTC and transportation projects in Richmond, seven counties and the town of Ashland. Richmond Public Works Director Bobby Vincent Jr. said the city is investing $2.4 million this year in sidewalk work, enabling him to triple the workforce involved with sidewalks from 10 people to 30. He said he already has hired 10 new people. With the CVTA funding projected to continue, he said he expects within two years to have sharply reduced the 2,000 citizen requests for sidewalk replacement and anticipates city residents would need to wait no more than a year to have the work done. The city manages 832 miles of sidewalk, with most rated in good shape. A 2013 city audit indicated at least 40 miles of sidewalk needed replacement. That included locations, mostly in South Side, that needed to have sidewalks installed for the first time. Officials said Wednesday that the city’s share of the CVTA funding is $16.7 million. Along with sidewalks, the new source of funding is enabling the

city to step up street repaving to reduce potholes. According to city figures, between July 1, 2020, and June 30, 2022, the city will have repaved more than 600 lane miles of streets, or nearly 25 percent of the 2,626 lane miles it maintains. During the next five years, funding projections suggest between 1,200 to 1,500 more lane miles of roadway would be repaved, virtually eliminating potholes. As of August 2020, only 1,077

Cityscape Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

lane miles were rated in good to excellent condition or about 41 percent, but that appears to be changing rapidly. A lane mile is one mile of a single lane of a road. Mr. Vincent also has noted that DPW has stepped up its work on alley improvement and is using the new funding to install hundreds of new curb ramps to make it easier for those in wheelchairs to cross streets. “I want to make certain that we stay on top of those things,” he said.

Jeremy M. Lazarus/Richmond Free Press

Doris H. Causey among four African-Americans named to Virginia Court of Appeals By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Quandarius Wilburn

VUU freshman football player collapses during practice and dies Free Press staff report

Virginia Union University is mourning the death of freshman football player Quandarius Wilburn, who collapsed and died Sunday afternoon as the team worked out. According to those present, the 18-year-old from Wadley, Ga., was participating in conditioning drills when he collapsed. He was rushed to VCU Medical Center but could not be revived. Family members said they were told he suffered an inexplicable and sudden cardiac arrest. They are awaiting more definitive information from an autopsy. Deaths among young athletes, while rare, have occurred on many college campuses and even in high schools in a variety of mostly outdoor sports. It is unknown whether Quandarius’ case relates to high heat and poor hydration, as has been too often the cause in cases elsewhere. Quandarius had cleared physical exams before joining the team and had no reported health problems, team officials said. He was recruited to play defensive end from Jefferson County High School in Louisville, Ga. The team listed him at 6-foot-2 and 230 pounds. Earlier on Sunday, the team attended church services and had lunch together before beginning the workout, the school noted in a letter to the campus community. There was no hint of an impending health emergency. The team resumed its pre-season workouts Tuesday dressed in uniforms but without pads. The VUU Panthers’ season starts Saturday, Sept. 4. In January, he posted on his Twitter page: “Blessed to receive an offer from Virginia Union University!” He posted last November that he had received his first offer to play college ball from Reinhardt University, a private, four-year institution in Waleska, Ga. His funeral will be held Saturday, Aug. 14, in the gymnasium of his former high school to accommodate the expected crowd. In its only public statement, VUU officials wrote: “The Virginia Union University family is heartbroken about the passing of a freshman student and football player …Our primary concern is the well-being of the family and fellow students impacted by this tragedy. Virginia Union stands ready to provide support in any way necessary and available as families and students work to process this devastating loss.”

Richmond casino referendum approved for fall ballot A Richmond judge has signed an order putting the casino referendum on the Richmond ballot, ensuring city voters will have the final say on whether Virginia’s capital city adds a gambling mecca to its attractions. Senior Circuit Court Judge Margaret P. Spencer signed the order Aug. 4 to put the issue before the voters in the upcoming general election. Early in-person voting is to begin Friday, Sept. 17, in the election that will conclude on Tuesday, Nov. 2. Interim City Attorney Haskell C. Brown submitted the paperwork that Judge Spencer signed. Mayor Levar M. Stoney and the Richmond City Council have selected a subsidiary of Urban One, a Black-owned broadcast media company, to develop ONE Casino + Resort on about 100 acres of property at Commerce Road and Walmsley Boulevard, which directly faces the Bells Road interchange of Interstate 95. At this point, Urban One is campaigning for support through advertising on TV, in print media and on its Richmond radio outlets. So far, little organized opposition to the casino has surfaced. Social media sites for those who oppose a casino development have attracted fewer than 3,000 people. Last November, residents of Norfolk, Portsmouth, Danville and Bristol approved casino proposals for their cities. Mayor Stoney has expressed confidence that Richmond voters will do the same. – JEREMY M. LAZARUS

In a historic first, the Virginia Court of Appeals will have five Black members reviewing lower court decisions. Doris Henderson Causey, the managing attorney for Central Virginia Legal Aid Society’s Richmond office, is among the eight new jurists the General Assembly elected this week to the appeals court that examines circuit court decisions to determine if any errors were made in trials. The new jurists also include two other Black women attorneys and a Black judge from Norfolk. The General Assembly also elected two Black attorneys to the courts in Chesterfield County and filled a seat on the Richmond Circuit Court bench. Currently, the Virginia Court of Appeals has 11 judges, though there is an existing vacancy. Of the 10 sitting judges listed on the court’s website, nine are white and only three are women, including the lone African-American, Judge Mary B. Malveaux of Henrico County. The court is being expanded to 17 members as a result of legislative action earlier this year. The new judges will fill six new slots and two vacancies, including the existing one and one to come. The General Assembly changed the rules and passed legislation that for the first time grants parties in criminal and civil cases an automatic right of appeal to this court. That opened the door to a potential flood of new cases and prompted the court’s expansion. To the dismay of Republicans, Democratic majorities in the state Senate and House of Delegates gathered behind closed doors to interview and vet proposed candidates, with the results announced Monday. Mrs. Causey, a Henrico resident, is the lone pick from the Richmond area. In 2017, she was the first African-American and

first legal aid lawyer to become president of the Virginia State Bar, the agency that regulates the legal profession in Virginia. She held the post for a year. The other new Mrs. Causey Black judges on the appeals court include Norfolk Circuit Court Judge Junius P. Fulton III, who led the development of the Norfolk Drug and Re-entry courts, and two other women attorneys, Dominique A. Callins of Front Royal and Vernida R. Chaney of Alexandria. Other new members of the court are Lisa M. Lorish of Charlottesville, an assistant federal public defender; Fairfax Circuit Court Judge Daniel E. Ortiz; and Stuart A. Raphael of Arlington, a former Virginia solicitor general who handled appellate cases and is now with Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP. The final new judge is Frank K. Friedman, a Roanoke attorney who has specialized in filing appeals in state and federal courts. House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn hailed the choices that she noted stem from “the unprecedented review and coordination between the House and the Senate that has resulted in the selection of the most diverse and qualified candidates to be elected to the Court of Appeals.” Sen. Majority Leader Richard Saslaw and Senate Democratic Caucus Chair Mamie Locke also were bullish on the choices. In a joint statement, they noted, “Expanding the Court of Appeals was a major victory for justice in the Commonwealth,” and stated those selected will ensure the court has the “experienced, diverse, knowledgeable and forwardthinking” jurists to ensure that trials in the state are conducted fairly.

Virginia Legislative Black Caucus members called the election of the new judges “a historic step forward in making our legal system more equitable.” Sen. L. Louise Lucas of Portsmouth, the president pro tempore of the state Senate, said the court’s current makeup of mostly white men and former prosecutors was not reflective of the Commonwealth. “We elected an unprecedented level of diversity to the bench,” said House Majority Leader Charniele Herring of Alexandria. “This process engaged the public, experts, and members from both chambers, and I think we have a great deal to be excited about as the justice landscape in Virginia continues to tilt toward inclusion. …I look forward to the work ahead to make our justice system one that works for all Virginians.” Delegate Don Scott of Portsmouth said more than 20 African-American judges have been appointed or reappointed to the bench by the General Assembly in the last two years. In Chesterfield County, months of debate among the county’s General Assembly delegation over filling judicial vacancies was finally settled, with two Black attorneys gaining judicial posts. One is Curtis E. Hairston Jr. of The Gee Law Firm. He was elected to fill the Chesterfield General District Court vacancy that resulted from the removal of the county’s longest-serving Black judge, Pamela O’Berry, earlier this year. The other is Travis R. Williams of the Daniels, Williams, Tuck & Ritter law firm. He was elected to the county’s Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court to replace Judge Jayne Ann Pemberton who was elected to fill a vacancy on the Chesterfield Circuit Court. In Richmond, General District Court Judge Claire G. Cardwell was elected to succeed retiring Circuit Court Judge Beverly W. Snukals. Judge Cardwell’s replacement on the lower court has not been selected.

UR and ODU welcome new presidents The new president of the University of Richmond will be on campus when the school’s first Black president, Dr. Ronald A. Crutcher, waves goodbye this week. Dr. Kevin F. Hallock, dean of Cornell University’s College of Business and an economics professor in the field of compensation and labor markets, has been chosen by the UR Board of Trustees to succeed Dr. Crutcher. Dr. Hallock is expected to start also as an economics professor in the School of Business with affiliated appointments with the Jepson School of Leadership and the School of Arts & Sciences. Dr. Crutcher will serve as a consultant this academic year and in fall 2023 will return to a former role as professor teaching music and leadership. A former president of Wheaton College as well as a renowned cellist, Dr. Crutcher announced last year that he would step down in early 2022. UR Rector Paul B. Queally, described the incoming 11th president as a “dynamic and hard-working leader with a strong track record of building consensus and bringing people together around a shared vision.” Dr. Hallock said that based on what he

already has learned about UR, he will arrive “confident of a bright future” for the school. Dr. Hallock earned a bachelor’s in economics from the University of MassachuDr. Hallock setts at Amherst, and his master’s and Ph.D. in economics from Princeton University. Meanwhile, Dr. Brian O. Hemphill is holding meetings around the state with Old Dominion University alumni after taking over as the ninth president — and first African-American leader — at the Norfolk institution. Dr. Hemphill succeeded Dr. John R. Broderick, who stepped down this summer after 13 years at the helm of ODU. Dr. Hemphill had served as president of Radford University in western Virginia since 2016, where he was known as an innovative and forward-focused leader helping boost enrollment to record levels in fall 2019 and establishing an Academic Success Center to improve student reten-

tion and graduation rates. Radford added 19 degrees in health sciences to its curriculum during Dr. Hemphill’s tenue. Previously, Dr. Hemphill held the top position at West VirDr. Hemphill ginia State University for four years and was vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Northern Illinois University for eight years. He takes over at ODU as the institution works to launch a School of Public Health in conjunction with Norfolk State University and Eastern Virginia Medical School, expand telehealth efforts at its Virginia Beach Center and begins construction on a new Health Sciences Building. He earned his bachelor’s in organizational communication from St. Augustine’s University in Raleigh, N.C., a master’s in journalism and mass communication from Iowa State University, and his doctorate in higher education administration and policy studies from the University of Iowa.

CAHN to host block party Aug. 14 in South Side Music, dancing and community health will be the focus of a block party hosted by the Capital Area Health Network, or CAHN, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, outside the Manchester Medical Building,

101 Cowardin Ave. in South Side. The event is being held on the final day of National Health Center Week and is designed to celebrate health and wellness, organizers stated.

The event is open to the public without charge. CAHN, a nonprofit, operates seven, lowcost health clinics in the area, including one in the Manchester building.

Richmond Free Press

August 12-14, 2021 A3

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Richmond Free Press

A4 August 12-14, 2021

News

Jury still out on Richmond Police Chief Gerald Smith after one year Continued from A1

of experience. Before assuming command of the largest department in Richmond’s government and becoming one of the city’s highest paid officials at a salary of $185,000 a year, he had spent 30 years on the Charlotte police force where he had risen through the ranks from patrol officer to deputy chief commanding investigations. A big man with a bald head and a football player’s brawny physique, the city’s 20th police chief almost appears to have come out of central casting. But a year later, he remains little known. Unlike previous chiefs Rodney Monroe and Alfred Durham, he does not mingle easily with the public or with those he commands. Most who have met him consider him personable and easy to talk with. When a reporter at a public event asked him a question about stolen guns, he delivered a two-minute monologue about the department’s efforts to encourage the public to lock up weapons. His schedule is tightly controlled. He told one reporter who had been seeking an interview

for six weeks that “I have been willing, but my staff had other ideas.” He also is known to bristle at criticism. Insiders said he went to one precinct roll call, left abruptly when the officers began questioning him and has never attended another. Mayor Stoney, though, remains bullish on the chief. “Chief Smith is leading the Richmond Police Department in the right direction,” Mayor Stoney stated in an email to the Free Press. “Under his leadership, the department has emerged from an unprecedented year more engaged and accountable, with a renewed focus on community partnerships geared toward prevention and intervention. “Chief’s Smith’s job going forward,” the mayor added, “is to continue to build” relationships within the community and involve the public in assisting with public safety. That’s “the key to a safer city, and I know it’s a goal to which he is fully committed. Public safety is not one person’s job, but a shared responsibility between our residents and the officers sworn to protect them,” the mayor stated.

Even so, as violence spiked, the mayor had no problem not providing funding for 39 vacant officer positions, ensuring they couldn’t be filled. Chief Smith acknowledges the department is struggling to recruit new officers and currently has at least 75 total vacancies in the sworn force. He has a total of 675 sworn officers, including 19 recruits who will graduate in September, according to the department. With other officers out on family leave, performing National Guard service, dealing with health issues or awaiting results of disciplinary action, only about 630 officers are available, forcing Chief Smith to use mandatory overtime to ensure there are a few officers available per shift in each precinct. Some blame the decline on the city’s salary scale, which now provides officers with less pay than Henrico and Chesterfield counties. City Council has authorized a study to determine what pay increases might be needed in the next budget amid worries about a potential $12 million cost to upgrade both police and firefighter pay. Still, the rise in shootings,

robberies and assaults also is arousing concern. Department figures show that 87 homicides have occurred since the chief arrived. Since the beginning of the 2021-22 fiscal year on July 1, there have been 12 killings. Chief Smith’s ability to motivate his force and deal with the situation is complicated by his management style. Inside the department, he is generally getting a thumbs down. Based on Free Press interviews, the chief is viewed as distant and, as one person put it, “not a good fit.” He has been dinged for passing by officers and not speaking and in general has made little effort to meet officers in the lower ranks. Evidence of his stand offish approach to his officers was visible at the National Night Out kickoff event on Aug. 3. He spoke with the mayor and members of the media, but it was noticeable that he kept his distance from lower-ranking police officers. He has stamped his mark on the command staff. In a bid to show he was serious about reform, he set up an Office of Professional Accountability and

State mandates COVID-19 vaccinations for state workers Continued from A1

Virginia Commonwealth, Virginia State and Virginia Union universities, along with the University of Richmond and other state colleges and universities, have led the way on vaccine mandates. All are requiring faculty, staff and students who want to be in-person to be vaccinated. Most are offering vaccination clinics on their campuses. VSU also has added a financial incentive. Students with proof of vaccination are to get $500 each, while faculty and staff with proof of inoculation would get $1,000 each. “Our mandate to require the vaccine is guided by our commitment to the health and wellness of our VSU community,” VSU President Makola M. Abdullah stated in a letter to the campus community explaining the mandate and spelling out the incentive to be awarded to those who have proof of vaccination by Sept. 20. On the government front, Mayor Stoney, who fully recovered from his own bout with COVID-19, acted after learning that only about 1,800 of the city’s 3,600 full-time employees have been vaccinated. Under the rules he imposed, employees must have a first shot by Wednesday, Aug. 18, and cannot simply wear masks and get regular tests for the coronavirus to avoid vaccination. Firefighters, police officers,

social workers and others are among those under the mandate. One day later, on Aug. 5, Gov. Northam announced that state employees and state contractors also would need to be vaccinated under a mandate that would become effective Wednesday, Sept 1. Unlike Richmond, though, the governor would allow employees entering state offices to wear masks and get weekly tests for the virus to avoid the shot. “The arrival of the delta variant, combined with the number of people who are not vaccinated, is driving our case count back up,” Gov. Northam noted to reporters in announcing the mandate. “I am directing this measure to keep state employees safe and to keep the people that we serve safe,” he continued. “And I really encourage local governments and private companies to do the same thing.” The action is directed toward the nearly 30 percent of state employees who have not gotten shots, officials said later. At this point about 73 percent of state employees have been vaccinated, they said, a far higher percentage than is the case in Richmond and other localities. More than 50 percent of Richmond’s population has had at least one shot, but as of last week, only about 45 percent were fully vaccinated as of Tuesday, the mayor reported this week in pleading again for people to get vaccinated.

Richmond schools Superintendent Jason Kamras also announced on Aug. 5 his decision to seek board approval of a vaccine mandate. In his view, RPS needs “to do everything humanly possible to protect the health and safety of our students and staff” with the start of in-person classes nearing. State law and state Board of Education regulations require RPS and every public school district to impose vaccine mandates on students for diseases ranging from mumps and measles to meningitis and human papilloma virus. Still, at least one Richmond School Board member, Jonathan Young, 4th District, is differentiating the coronavirus. “Vaccinated since I was first afforded the opportunity this spring, I encourage everyone to get the shot, but to adopt a big brother government mandate constitutes a gross abuse of persons’ civil liberties,” Mr. Young stated in spelling out his position Asked directly, he could not explain why the existing “big brother” approach to other diseases for which students must get vaccines to attend public schools should not apply to the coronavirus. Board Chair Cheryl L. Burke, 7th District, appears confident that RPS will go beyond a mask mandate to require faculty and staff to be vaccinated. “I am in agreement with keeping our children safe and keeping our faculty and staff safe.”

Building a race car revs up learning process for RPS students Continued from A1

for high school and middle school students — building a sports car and — hopefully — seeing it run. On a recent weekday, Richmond students were driven to the Laburnum Avenue raceway’s NASCAR pit bay #25, right across from the oval track, where all kinds of tools were waiting—professional wrenches and pliers, screw drivers and assorted metal drills, key sets and dead blow hammers and more. Sitting on the floor of the workshop was the red fabricated body frame of the Daytona Coupe 500 R. The sight alone was an emotional rush for Armstrong High students and 14-year-old fraternal twins Aniyah and Xavier Rawl. The rising sophomores are interested in STEM and their reaction to the car parts was as different as their personalities. Aniyah is gregarious, an outgoing thinker and coder, while Xavier is a quiet tinkerer who, starting at a very young age, began taking apart toys and household appliances and putting them back together, sometimes to the horror of his mother.

“I have a chance to build a car. I’ve never built a car before,” Aniyah told the Free Press before putting on her goggles and going into the bay to work with the drill one on one with Mr. Irving. “We don’t have all of the parts, so sometimes we have to go back and redo things,” she said, adding that she loves the work. “This is exciting,” Aniyah said. “Someone will drive it. It’s a race car.” Seth Knight, Richmond Public Schools’ manager for the project, said students are enjoying the hands-on learning. “For the students, it is cool for them to be in a different space, in the track infield and in the bay. It’s a whole different experience than driving by or seeing the bay from the stands. This experience puts the project in context for them,” he said. Xavier said he decided to participate because he was at home and bored this summer. He said he also was excited about working side by side with Mr. Irving and learning new techniques using different tools. “I had some experience when I helped my cousin build a four-wheeler vehicle,” Xavier said. While attending Elkhardt-Thompson

Middle School, he said he learned how to take computers apart and rebuild them. “I’m breaking the computer in a nice way while discovering parts and pieces of it,” he said, adding he wants to become a gaming designer. The Flying Classroom’s car building is being done in stages. All of the pieces are there, literally, on the floor ready to be assembled. Henrico County students came for three weeks in July to kick off the project and worked on car’s frame. In August, RPS students picked up the next stage, drilling door parts and putting hinges in place. The car may not be finished by the end of August, officials said, but the students’ experience will be invaluable. The Virginia Department of Education is supporting the initiative with $250,000 from the Commonwealth’s 21st Century Learning Centers’ federal grant. Other partners include Virginia Commonwealth University, the Wendell Scott Foundation, Richmond Raceway, Henrico County Public Schools, the Henrico Education Foundation, NextUp RVA and Richmond Public Schools.

brought back a former department lawyer, Victoria Pearson, to lead it. Officers tell the Free Press, he has proven indecisive on discipline, leaving investigative reports from internal affairs stacked on his desk and not acted on for weeks and even months, in a few cases without a decision. Since he arrived, though, Richmond has not experienced any highly publicized police shootings or other incidents. Seven months in, he swept from the command staff three respected officers with more than 90 years combined experience with the force, including an officer who had served as interim chief before his appointment. It took nearly six months for Chief Smith to fill one of the vacant slots in the command staff. In doing so, Chief Smith did not promote from within but went 3,000 miles away to select a veteran captain from the Seattle police force, John F. Hayes Jr., to become deputy chief of patrol. Strikingly, the chief did not publicly announce the hire or send out an internal tweet or email to notify his officers, the

Free Press was told. Outside assessments of Chief Smith’s job performance have proved harder to come by. Representatives of a police watchdog group, the Richmond Transparency and Accountability Project, did not respond to a request for comment. Nor did eight members of City Council. The only person to respond to a request for comment, 8th District Councilwoman Reva M. Trammell, chair of council’s Public Safety Committee, did so only after a reporter caught up to her at a public event. She provided a tepid endorsement. “I think he’s doing a good job,” Ms. Trammell said, adding that “he lacks the resources. He has 100 vacancies. He doesn’t have the manpower.” For now, Chief Smith is here to stay. This summer, he scotched rumors that he had applied for the vacant chief’s position in Durham, N.C. And for now, his focus is on the current challenges — gun violence, calls for service and training needs. Even if unseen, he noted in a published statement, “we are taking active steps to mitigate these issues.”

Free COVID-19 vaccines Continued from A1

Testing will be offered while test supplies last. COVID-19 testing also is available at various drug stores, clinics and urgent care centers throughout the area for people with and without health insurance. Several offer tests with no out-of-pocket costs. A list of area COVID-19 testing sites is online at https://www.vdh. virginia.gov/richmond-city/richmond-and-henrico-area-covid-19testing-sites/ The Virginia Department of Health also has a list of COVID-19 testing locations around the state at www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/ covid-19-testing/covid-19-testing-sites/.

Want a COVID-19 vaccine?

The Richmond and Henrico health districts are offering free walk-up COVID-19 vaccines at the following locations: • Thursday, Aug. 12, 2 to 4 p.m. – Meriel Salon, 505 Hull St., Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. • Friday, Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to noon – Henrico West Health Department Clinic, 8600 Dixon Powers Drive, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. • Saturday, Aug. 14, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – RVA Clippers, 914 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. • Sunday, Aug. 15, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Sacred Heart Center, 1400 Perry St., Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. • Tuesday, Aug. 17, 9 to 11 a.m. – Cedar Street Baptist Church of God, 2301 Cedar St., Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. • Wednesday, Aug. 18, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Third Street Bethel AME Church Food Pantry, 614 N. 3rd St., Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. • Thursday, Aug. 19, 2 to 4 p.m. – Brookland Middle School, 9200 Lydell Drive. • Friday, Aug. 20, 9 a.m. to noon – Henrico West Health Department Clinic, 8600 Dixon Powers Drive, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson; 10 a.m. to noon – Deering Manor Apartments’ Back-to-School Event, 2720 Hopkins Road, Pfizer and Johnson and Johnson; 3 to 5 p.m. – East End Branch Richmond Public Library, 1200 N. 25th St., Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. Children ages 12 to 15 may only receive the Pfizer vaccine. Appointments are not required, but individuals can schedule an appointment online at vax.rchd.com or by calling (804) 205-3501. VaccineFinder.org and vaccines.gov also allow people to find nearby pharmacies and clinics that offer the COVID-19 vaccine. Virginia continues to see a steady climb in cases of COVID-19, which has led to vaccine mandates for state employees and in some localities and school systems. Officials said the surge is being driven largely by the spread of the delta variant of the virus, which is so contagious that even people who are fully vaccinated can pass it along to others without showing symptoms themselves. As a result, health officials are stressing the importance of all age groups wearing a mask, regardless of vaccination status. In Richmond, the vast majority of its rising number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are among the unvaccinated, local health officials said this week. They promised further community outreach and collaboration efforts to get people age 12 and older vaccinated at easy-to-reach vaccine clinics and neighborhood sites. Plans are underway to set up vaccination sites at barbershops, beauty salons and other places. More than 2,100 new cases of COVID-19 were reported Wednesday by the state Department of Health, contributing to a total of 713,195 cases statewide. There have been 31,966 hospitalizations and 11,581 deaths statewide to date. Virginia’s seven-day positivity rate continues to rise at 7.5 percent. Last week, it was 6.5 percent. According to state health department data, 54.8 percent of the population has been fully vaccinated, while 61.6 percent of the population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. State data also show that African-Americans comprised 22.6 percent of cases statewide and 25.1 percent of deaths for which ethnic and racial data is available, while Latinos made up 15.7 percent of cases and 6.4 percent of deaths.

Reported COVID-19 data as of Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2021 Cases Hospitalizations Deaths Richmond 18,173 832 281 Henrico County 27,289 1,120 643 Chesterfield County 29,970 1,070 455 Hanover County 8,929 331 169

VSU changes names of 4 buildings to honor history of women at university Continued from A1

all who live and work inside those buildings. Dr. Edwards said the original names were the footprints of systemic racism and a male-dominated society. The new names reflect the history and mission of VSU. Vawter Hall was named for Confederate Capt. Charles E. Vawter of West Virginia, a rector at VSU and a state legislator. The structure, built in 1908, is the second oldest on the campus in Ettrick and has served as a residential facility and now is used for academics.

Eggleston Hall was named for Dr. Joseph D. Eggleston, a former member of the VSU Board of Visitors who served as Virginia’s first state superintendent of public instruction, but he did little to advance the education of Black students during his tenure. Trinkle Hall, a dorm-turned-administration building, was named for former Virginia Gov. E. Lee Trinkle. He was known for signing the Racial Integrity Act of 1924, which prohibited interracial marriage and promoted the purity of the white race. Byrd Hall was named for former Harry F. Byrd Sr., a former Virginia

Photos courtesy of Virginia State University

Lucretia Campbell, top row second from left, was part of the first class at Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute in 1886. Others are, top row from left, James Shields, Susie Douglass, Fannie Walker, Carrie Bragg, Willie Davis, Jerry Lucas and Robert Green. Bottom row, from left, President John Mercer Langston, Professor James M. Colson and Mrs. Ida R. Harris.

governor, U.S. senator and leader of the infamous Byrd Machine than ruled state politics for much of the 20th century. He championed Massive Resistance against the landmark 1954 U.S. Supreme Court decision ordering the desegregating of public schools. Under a blue VSU canopy fronting the newly named Johnson Hall, Dr. Abdullah told the crowd of more than 30 people, “As a historically Black university, VSU has always set the tone of celebrating those who came before us to create the legacy that we have today. Greater happens here.”

Richmond Free Press

August 12-14, 2021 A5

Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors, but make sure you stay safe. Extreme temperatures increase the likelihood that people may experience heat-related illness — particularly older adults and young children.

Sun and Heat safety • Wear your sunscreen — use SPF 30 or higher and apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside • Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or excessive sweating • Wear UV-blocking clothing and UV-blocking sunglasses • Keep infants out of direct sunlight • Stay hydrated — be sure to drink plenty of water

Water safety • Swim in designated areas with a lifeguard present • Assess beach conditions — avoid areas with waves or rip currents • Take a partner — do not go into the water alone • Know your swim skill — do not exceed your swimming or ﬁtness capabilities

COVID-19 safety • Get vaccinated! • If you or your family are not vaccinated, follow safety precautions such as wearing a mask and social distancing • Even if you are vaccinated, it is important to follow all federal, state and local health guidelines • Stay informed and aware — new variants are on the rise

We care about the health and safety of our communities. To learn more, visit vcuhealth.org.

Richmond Free Press

A6 August 12-14, 2021

News

Afghanistan

To go, to stay; either way, many are likely to pay By Richard Dickerson Special to the Richmond Free Press

President Biden has announced that all U.S. troops will be withdrawn from Afghanistan by Aug. 31. The president’s decision has been met with mixed responses. There was a collective feeling held by many that the United States never should have gone to war in Afghanistan and many are relieved that the United States is finally bringing the troops home. And then there are people who believe that the 2,372 Americans killed and the 20,320 injured are being disrespected by the withdrawal. The withdrawal will likely accelerate Taliban control over large areas of the country and will enable the Taliban to gain control of the border with Pakistan. Control of the border could easily translate into more terrorists entering into Pakistan with a goal of destabilizing that country. Pakistan, often a reluctant ally of the United States, has nuclear weapons, so the prospect of a failed government in Pakistan is cause for concern. I served in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from 2010 to 2011 as an employee of USAID, the U.S. Agency for International Development, which is responsible for delivering economic and humanitarian assistance abroad. When I arrived at Kandahar Airfield on Aug. 1, 2010, where I would be based for the next year, the sun, the smell and the noise were almost overwhelming. The noise was from the constant takeoff and landing of military aircraft that occurred 24 hours a day, except during “ramp ceremonies” to escort the bodies of dead soldiers onto aircraft for their final flight home. The smell, I learned, was from hundreds of Porta-Pottys around the airfield and an open pond where waste was dumped. I traveled almost daily, visiting places where the war was a constant reality for the Afghan people, the Afghan government, American diplomats and U.S. soldiers. I visited Kandahar City, birthplace of the Taliban, and many of the districts in the Kandahar Province and other southern provinces, including Helmand, Uruzgan and Zabul. I was a regular visitor at many of the outposts with names I had difficulty pronouncing, working with local Afghan elected officials and their staffs including mayors and governors. I also worked with village elders and religious leaders, officials of other international organizations, members of the U.S. military, the U.S. State Department and other USAID staff, and a British imam who was tasked with outreach to Afghan religious leaders. My work was varied. It included helping train Afghan officials, including mayors, governors and their staffs, to be more effective leaders. I also worked to mediate disputes and to gain the support of tribal leaders. I served as a guide for international media and was part of the briefing team when members of Congress visited Kandahar. I want to believe that my work made a difference. I think many mistakes were made by the U.S. government

Photos courtesy of Richard Dickerson

Richard Dickerson, center, meets with local Afghans before a ceremony at Shah Agha Shrine, one of the most holy Islamic sites in the nation, located in the Khakrez District in southern Afghanistan. USAID had worked with U.S. Special Forces and local leaders and villagers to restore the shrine in 2011. Below, Afghan workers at Kandahar Airfield pause to participate in an Eid ceremony at the airfield in 2011.

in Afghanistan. Far too often, State Department and USAID employees were more focused on their next assignment instead of being committed to making a difference in Afghanistan. For others, the pay, the perks and the prestige of being assigned to Afghanistan far outweighed any commitment to helping the people and solving the problems while there. Too often, success was measured by the amount of money spent on road, school and construction projects, or the burn rate, rather than the sustainability of the projects. There was too often the wrongful thinking that the Americans had all the answers. We did not. Often, we failed to listen. We also failed to establish a consistent long-term program to reach Afghan religious leaders who have a substantial influence on the Afghan people. For example, mayors could tell people living in villages and towns to boil their water to prevent disease.

First wave of Afghan evacuees arrive at Fort Lee Free Press wire, staff report

It has been nearly two weeks since the first flight evacuating Afghans who worked alongside Americans in Afghanistan brought more than 200 people, including scores of children and babies in arms, to resettlement in the United States, and officials at Fort Lee are calling the operation a success so far. Efforts to welcome and screen the Afghan evacuees before they are relocated elsewhere across the nation are described in articles by Task Force Eagle posted on Fort Lee’s social media site. Task Force Eagle is a joint organization consisting of service members, government civilians and contractors from across the Department of Defense that are helping with Operation Allies Refuge as the evacuee resettlement is called. U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Rabener, deputy commander of the 321st Air Expeditionary Group, talked about his team working nearly non-stop to turn a vacant barracks on the Prince George County post into a medical screening facility. Now that evacuees have arrived, his team is responsible for completing medical examinations that are required for special visas to be issued to the Afghans and processing the applicants. “We see each individual over the course of two days for roughly two hours total, and complete a variety of laboratory screenings, medical exams and required vaccinations,” Lt. Col. Rabener said. Another article described how Fort Lee’s Joint Culinary Center of Excellence on short notice put together food service for the evacuees that meets halal standards for preparation and dietary allowance under Islamic law. “We had to ensure our suppliers had the appropriate food products available in sufficient quantities to supply the Afghans with three hot meals a day for the duration of their stay,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Zachary T. Brubaker. The team put together “grab and go” stations that operate 24 hours, allowing Afghans to get something to eat as soon as they arrive at Fort Lee, which is often in the pre-dawn hours. Regular meal service is provided in four-hour blocks three times a day, with interpreters on hand because of the language differences. People around the country also have asked how they can help the evacuees. “There are many opportunities to be involved in welcoming Afghan special immigrant applicants and refugees and helping them to rebuild their lives in the U.S.,” Fort Lee officials posted on Facebook. “We encourage people who

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Christopher Rodrigo

Buses transporting Afghan special immigrant applicants from Dulles International Airport arrive at Fort Lee outside of Petersburg on July 30. The military post is providing temporary housing, health screenings and initial services to what is expected to be about 3,500 Afghan evacuees who are being relocated to the United States. They helped U.S. troops during the war in Afghanistan and their lives, and those of their families, would be in danger by the Taliban if they remain.

are interested in assisting … to reach out to their local refugee resettlement agency for information about how they can support them in their communities.” The evacuation flights, bringing out former interpreters and others who fear retaliation from the Taliban for having worked with American service members and civilians, highlight American uncertainty about how Afghanistan’s government and military will fare after the last U.S. combat forces leave that country in the coming weeks. Family members are accompanying the interpreters, translators and others on the flights out. The first group of 221 Afghans in the special visa program, including 57 children and 15 babies, arrived around 2 a.m. July 30 at Dulles International Airport in Northern Virginia on a commercial carrier. They were put on buses and taken about 150 miles south to Fort Lee, where they are staying at a Holiday Inn Express on the post that normally hosts soldiers on temporary assignment at For Lee. Those service members were relocated to other hotels — some moved 60 miles away — which was causing some consternation, according to one military publication, because some of service members didn’t have cars or access to grocery stores. The first arrivals were screened for the coronavirus and received vaccines if they wanted them, said Tracey Jacobson, the U.S. diplomat running the effort. They were expected to stay at Fort Lee, Virginia, for about seven days, completing medical exams and other final steps, Ms. Jacobson said. Resettlement organizations will help them as they travel to communities

around the United States, with some bound for family members already here, she said. The newly arrived Afghan people will join 70,000 others who have resettled in the United States since 2008 under the special visa program. Subsequent flights are due to bring more of the roughly 700 applicants who are farthest along in the process of getting visas, having already won approval and cleared security screening. In late July, Congress overwhelmingly approved legislation that would allow an additional 8,000 visas and $500 million in funding for the Afghan visa program. President Biden announced earlier this year that the United States would withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan by Sept. 11, honoring a withdrawal agreement struck by former President Trump. He later said the U.S. military operation would end on Aug. 31, calling it “overdue.” Some administration officials have expressed surprise at the extent and speed of Taliban gains of territory in the countryside since then. President Biden called the first flight of evacuees “an important milestone as we continue to fulfill our promise to the thousands of Afghan nationals who served shoulder-to-shoulder with American troops and diplomats over the last 20 years in Afghanistan.” He said he wanted to honor the military veterans, diplomats and others in the U.S. who have advocated for the Afghans. “Most of all,” the president said in a statement, “I want to thank these brave Afghans for standing with the United States, and today, I am proud to say to them: ‘Welcome home.’ ”

However, more people would follow that advice if the message was delivered by the mullah during Friday prayers. Villagers looked to the mullah for guidance in most aspects of their lives. Complicating the matter, Americans were labeled as nonbelievers. And by failing to aggressively respond to this myth, we too often were viewed as being anti-Islam. Additionally, the lack of diversity within both the State Department and USAID contributed to a “group think” mentality and helped to hinder progress. Few people were willing to speak out against the non-productive policies in place. On a positive note, I observed during my time in Afghanistan how the U.S. military Special Forces were daily difference makers. They helped provide hope and order for thousands of Afghans by getting rid of the Taliban and implementing successful village stabilization programs, including securing clean water sources, clearing rubbish and setting up basic medical treatment. Equally important, the Special Forces were able to establish strong, lasting relationships with village elders and leaders. This led to village leaders taking a direct role in providing security for their village and helping establish a level of order. Unfortunately, many of the people who helped U.S. forces as interpreters, office workers and in many other jobs are now in jeopardy, as are their family members, with the resurgence of the Taliban. The backlog of applicants from Afghanistan for a special immigrant visa program set up by Congress is estimated at about 17,000, with another 50,000 immediate family members. The ability of the United States and its allies to accurately identify every Afghan who helped during our 20-year war there is daunting and maybe impossible. While the first of an estimated 3,500 Afghan evacuees began arriving July 30 at Fort Lee to begin the resettlement process, it is unclear if all who want to leave will be able to before the full withdrawal of U.S. troops. Those who remain in Afghanistan may be targets as the Taliban moves back into power. Even under the best of circumstances, there may be instances of some Afghans fabricating stories — with deadly consequences for neighbors and others — in order to gain the good grace and favor of the newly installed Taliban leadership. Because the Taliban has never been a proponent of education, the existing problems of limited education and lack of schools and teachers will persist in the nation, with a high illiteracy rate continually impeding the opportunities for the country to grow. In areas coming under Taliban control, the impact on young girls and women will be devastating. I learned while there that many young girls suffered from forced marriages and there was rampant sexual abuse of young boys, a fact that few acknowledged but was a common occurrence. Life under the Taliban likely will exacerbate these issues. The Taliban was heavily involved in the production of poppy plants, the key ingredient for heroin. It was the cash crop, promoted by the barrel of Taliban guns. It is easy to see a significant increase in poppy production in Afghanistan in the near future, which likely will translate to more heroin on the streets of the United States. The early signs are not promising. In the past several weeks as U.S. troops have left, we have seen the execution of Afghan soldiers, the looting of a former U.S. military base and more. And this may be just the beginning. In the best of circumstances, Afghanistan is a very difficult and challenging place. The geography is not kind to man or machine. The lack of infrastructure — roads, bridges, schools, medical clinics, doctors and teachers — will make it increasingly difficult to have a government that functions properly and takes care of its people. It is easy to see Afghanistan splintering into a series of states controlled by powerful warlords who will get rich from the sale of drugs, extortion, kidnappings and other criminal activities. Life was hard for many in Afghanistan, and the withdrawal will make life much harder and more dangerous. The writer, a Charlottesville native and former Richmond resident who served as deputy state director for former U.S. Sen. Chuck Robb, is president of RAD Communications, a government and community-relations consulting firm.

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The Conservation Fund

This map shows the area along Dock Street along the riverfront that would be used for the planned $5 million environmental education center, the James River Center. This rendering of the planned James River Center shows the river access to the environmental education center.

Plans call for $5M James River Center on newly purchased conservation site By Jeremy M. Lazarus

A $5 million center is being envisioned that would provide Richmond youths with hands-on learning experiences on the shores of the James River. The nonprofit James River Association, a mostly volunteer guardian of the river since 1976, announced the proposal Tuesday as a major element of its James Changer campaign that is seeking to raise $20 million for river improvement. The plan for the center emerged after Arlington-based The Conservation Fund completed the purchase of the last big piece of privately owned riverfront property along the south side of Dock Street between Belle Island at 2nd Street and the Intermediate Terminal and Rocketts Landing in Fulton. Completed last week, the purchase of the 5.2-acre property in the 3000 block of Dock Street consummated a deal that former City Councilman Parker C. Agelasto engineered in his current role as executive director of the nonprofit Capital Region Land Conservancy. Mr. Agelasto announced the purchase plan in April and arranged for The Conservation Fund, a national nonprofit with deeper pockets, to take on the purchase while the CRLC raised the $4.87 million purchase price.

“The ability to help our partners purchase and secure key properties like this one quickly and effectively is what The Conservation Fund was built for,” said Heather Richards, the fund’s Mid-Atlantic regional director. Mr. Agelasto has reported that the Capital Region Land Conservancy has raised more than $3.6 million and is continuing to seek funds. Meanwhile, the national fund, with the approval of the city and other parties, has agreed to sell 1 acre to the James River Association as the site for its new center. If all goes well, the center could be operational in 2024, the organization noted. “Our goal is to ensure that every child growing up in ‘America’s Best River Town’ is introduced to the James River and enjoys a lifetime of benefits that the river can provide,” said Bill Street, chief executive officer of the James River Association, in outlining the vision for the center. “Building a leading-edge education center on Richmond’s riverfront would expand our ability to engage local youths, particularly in the historically underserved East End,” Mr. Street stated. Such a center would aid Richmond Public Schools in its efforts to provide place-based science learning, according to Josh Bearman, who oversees science instruction in city schools.

“The James River Center would represent a great opportunity for our students to take part in meaningful environmental science education that focuses on the issues and resources within their city,” Mr. Bearman noted. Mr. Agelasto has said the plan is to transfer the remaining 4.2 acres to the city to become a publicly accessible portion of the James River Park System and a link in the walking and biking Capital Trail that links Richmond and Williamsburg. The city has secured matching grants from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Virginia Land Conservation Foundation to assist the city in reimbursing The Conservation Fund and providing for improvements and continued maintenance. Mayor Levar M. Stoney applauded the work of the nonprofits in securing this property for parkland “that would benefit Richmonders for generations to come.” City Council President Cynthia I. Newbille, 7th District, and Council Vice President Ellen F. Robertson, 6th District, also expressed appreciation for the work of the nonprofits in securing the property. “The plans slated for this area are transformational in nature and will continue to make our city a better place to live, love, work, learn, play, visit, enjoy and raise a family,” Ms. Robertson stated.

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF AN APPLICATION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY D/B/A DOMINION ENERGY VIRGINIA FOR REVISION OF A RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE: RIDER U, NEW UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION FACILITIES, FOR THE RATE YEAR COMMENCING APRIL 1, 2022 CASE NO. PUR-2021-00110

Mr. Herring

Herring named managing partner at McGuireWoods Michael N. Herring, former Richmond commonwealth’s attorney, is now the managing partner at the Richmond office of McGuireWoods, one of the state’s largest law firms. The firm announced Monday that Mr. Herring has succeeded George K. Martin in the management post, which Mr. Martin held for more than 12 years. Mr. Martin, the first AfricanAmerican in that role, is now a senior partner at the firm. M r. H e r r i n g j o i n e d McGuireWoods in 2019 after stepping down as the city’s top prosecutor. He was elected three times and served for 13 years in the city’s leadership role overseeing a large staff of attorneys. Mr. Herring is a trial lawyer with experience resolving commercial litigation, government investigations and white-collar criminal defense matters.

Richmond Free Press

on social media.

•Virginia Electric and Power Company d/b/a Dominion Energy Virginia (“Dominion”) has applied for approval to revise its rate adjustment clause, Rider U. •In this case, Dominion has asked the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) to approve Rider U for the rate year beginning April 1, 2022, and ending March 31, 2023 (“2022 Rate Year”). •For the 2022 Rate Year, Dominion requests a revenue requirement of $95.879 million, which would increase the bill of a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month by $0.39. •A Hearing Examiner appointed by the Commission will hold a telephonic hearing in this case on January 19, 2022, at 10 a.m., for the receipt of public witness testimony. $Q HYLGHQWLDU\ KHDULQJ ZLOO EH KHOG RQ -DQXDU\ DW D P HLWKHU LQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V VHFRQG ÀRRU FRXUWURRP ORFDWHG LQ WKH 7\OHU %XLOGLQJ (DVW 0DLQ 6WUHHW 5LFKPRQG 9LUJLQLD RU by electronic means. Further details on this hearing will be provided by subsequent Commission Order or Hearing Examiner’s Ruling. •Further information about this case is available on the SCC website at: scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information. 2Q -XQH 9LUJLQLD (OHFWULF DQG 3RZHU &RPSDQ\ ³'RPLQLRQ´ RU ³&RPSDQ\´ ¿OHG ZLWK WKH 6WDWH &RUSRUDWLRQ &RPPLVVLRQ ³&RPPLVVLRQ´ DQ DQQXDO XSGDWH RI WKH &RPSDQ\¶V UDWH DGMXVWPHQW clause, Rider U (“Application”) pursuant to § 56 -85.1 A 6 (“Subsection A 6”) of the Code of Virginia. Through its Application, the Company seeks to recover costs associated with its Strategic Undergrounding Program (“SUP”). The Company asserts that Subsection A 6 provides that the replacement of any subset of a utility’s existing overhead distribution tap lines that have, in the aggregate, an average of nine or more total unplanned outage events-per-mile over a preceding 10-year period with new underground facilities in order to improve electric service reliability is in the public interest. The Company further states that 6XEVHFWLRQ $ SURYLGHV WKDW WKHVH FRQYHUVLRQV DUH GHHPHG WR SURYLGH ORFDO DQG V\VWHP ZLGH EHQH¿WV DQG WR EH FRVW EHQH¿FLDO DQG WKDW WKH FRVWV DVVRFLDWHG ZLWK VXFK QHZ XQGHUJURXQG IDFLOLWLHV DUH GHHPHG to be reasonably and prudently incurred. Moreover, the Company asserts Subsection A 6 mandates that the Commission approve recovery of such costs so long as the aggregated costs associated with the replacement of overhead distribution tap lines with underground facilities do not exceed an average cost per customer undergrounded of $20,000, including customers served directly by or down line of the WDS OLQHV SURSRVHG IRU FRQYHUVLRQ H[FOXVLYH RI ¿QDQFLQJ FRVWV DQG DQ DYHUDJH FRVW SHU PLOH RI H[FOXVLYH RI ¿QDQFLQJ FRVWV In addition to an annual update associated with the previously approved phases of the SUP, the Company seeks cost recovery for phase six (“Phase Six”) of the SUP, designed to convert an additional 295 miles of overhead tap lines to underground at a capital investment of approximately $173 million, with an average cost per mile of $586,326 and an average cost per customer undergrounded of $7,068. Dominion states that its actual expenditures for Phase Six incurred through March 31, 2021, are $57.5 million, and projected expenditures for the period April 1, 2021, through March 31, 2022, are approximately $115.4 million. The Company is requesting to recover the costs of Phase Six through Rider U for only those projects that will be completed prior to April 1, 2022. In this proceeding, Dominion has asked the Commission to approve Rider U for the rate year beginning April 1, 2022, and ending March 31, 2023 (“2022 Rate Year”). The two components of the proposed total revenue requirement for the 2022 Rate Year are the Projected Cost Recovery Factor and the Actual Cost True Up Factor. The Company states that the revenue requirement associated with the costs of the previously approved SUP phases totals $61.181 million, which includes a Projected Cost Recovery Factor of $59.637 million, and an Actual Cost True-up Factor of $1.545 million. The Company also states that the Projected Cost Recovery Factor revenue requirement for Phase Six costs totals $34.698 million. In total, the Company seeks approval of revised Rider U with an associated revenue requirement in the amount of $95.879 million for the 2022 Rate Year. For purposes of calculating the revenue requirements in this case, Dominion utilized a rate of return on common equity of 9.2%, approved by the Commission in Case No. PUR-2019-00050. If the proposed Rider U revenue requirement for the 2022 Rate Year is approved, the impact on customer bills would depend on the customer’s rate schedule and usage. According to Dominion, implementation of its proposed Rider U on April 1, 2022, would increase the bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month by approximately $0.39. Dominion indicates it has calculated the proposed Rider U rates in accordance with the same methodology as used for rates approved by the Commission in the most recent Rider U proceeding, Case No. PUR-2020-00096. 7KLV $SSOLFDWLRQ LV RQH RI VL[ ¿OLQJV 'RPLQLRQ PDGH RQ RU DERXW -XQH IRU UHFRYHU\ RI IXQGV UHODWHG WR FDSLWDO SURMHFWV ,I WKH UHYHQXH UHTXLUHPHQWV LQ WKHVH ¿OLQJV DUH DSSURYHG DV SURSRVHG WKH cumulative impact would be a monthly increase of approximately $0.41 for a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month. Interested persons are encouraged to review Dominion’s Application and supporting documents in full for details about these and other proposals. 7$.( 127,&( WKDW WKH &RPPLVVLRQ PD\ DSSRUWLRQ UHYHQXHV DPRQJ FXVWRPHU FODVVHV DQG RU GHVLJQ UDWHV LQ D PDQQHU GL൵HULQJ IURP WKDW VKRZQ LQ WKH $SSOLFDWLRQ DQG VXSSRUWLQJ GRFXPHQWV DQG WKXV PD\ DGRSW UDWHV WKDW GL൵HU IURP WKRVH DSSHDULQJ LQ WKH &RPSDQ\¶V $SSOLFDWLRQ DQG VXSSRUWLQJ GRFXPHQWV The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing that, among other things, scheduled public hearings on Dominion’s Application. On January 19, 2022, at 10 a.m., a Hearing Examiner appointed by the Commission will hold a telephonic hearing for the purpose of receiving the testimony of public witnesses, with no public witness present in the Commission’s courtroom. On or before January 14, DQ\ SHUVRQ GHVLULQJ WR R൵HU WHVWLPRQ\ DV D SXEOLF ZLWQHVV VKDOO SURYLGH WR WKH &RPPLVVLRQ D \RXU QDPH DQG E WKH WHOHSKRQH QXPEHU WKDW \RX ZLVK WKH &RPPLVVLRQ WR FDOO GXULQJ WKH KHDULQJ WR UHFHLYH \RXU WHVWLPRQ\ 7KLV LQIRUPDWLRQ PD\ EH SURYLGHG WR WKH &RPPLVVLRQ LQ WKUHH ZD\V L E\ ¿OOLQJ RXW D IRUP RQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V ZHEVLWH DW scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting; (ii) by completing and emailing the PDF version of this form to SCCInfo@scc.virginia.gov; or (iii) by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting. 2Q -DQXDU\ DW D P HLWKHU LQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V VHFRQG ÀRRU FRXUWURRP ORFDWHG LQ WKH 7\OHU %XLOGLQJ (DVW 0DLQ 6WUHHW 5LFKPRQG 9LUJLQLD RU E\ HOHFWURQLF PHDQV D +HDULQJ ([DPLQHU DSSRLQWHG E\ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ ZLOO FRQYHQH D KHDULQJ WR UHFHLYH WHVWLPRQ\ DQG HYLGHQFH R൵HUHG E\ WKH &RPSDQ\ DQ\ UHVSRQGHQWV DQG WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 6WD൵ RQ WKH &RPSDQ\¶V $SSOLFDWLRQ Further details on this hearing will be provided by subsequent Commission Order or Hearing Examiner’s Ruling. The Commission has taken judicial notice of the ongoing public health emergency related to the spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, and the declarations of emergency issued at both the state and federal levels. In accordance therewith, all pleadings, briefs, or other documents required to be served in this matter should be submitted electronically to the extent authorized by 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format RI WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH DQG 3URFHGXUH ³5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH´ &RQ¿GHQWLDO DQG ([WUDRUGLQDULO\ 6HQVLWLYH ,QIRUPDWLRQ VKDOO QRW EH VXEPLWWHG HOHFWURQLFDOO\ DQG VKRXOG FRPSO\ with 5 VAC 5-20-170, &RQ¿GHQWLDO LQIRUPDWLRQ RI WKH 5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH $Q\ SHUVRQ VHHNLQJ WR KDQG GHOLYHU DQG SK\VLFDOO\ ¿OH RU VXEPLW DQ\ SOHDGLQJ RU RWKHU GRFXPHQW VKDOO FRQWDFW WKH &OHUN¶V 2൶FH Document Control Center at (804) 371-9838 to arrange the delivery. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-140, )LOLQJ DQG VHUYLFH RI WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH WKH &RPPLVVLRQ KDV GLUHFWHG WKDW VHUYLFH RQ SDUWLHV DQG WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 6WD൵ LQ WKLV PDWWHU VKDOO EH DFFRPSOLVKHG E\ HOHFWURQLF PHDQV 3OHDVH UHIHU WR WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 2UGHU IRU 1RWLFH DQG +HDULQJ IRU IXUWKHU LQVWUXFWLRQV FRQFHUQLQJ &RQ¿GHQWLDO RU ([WUDRUGLQDULO\ 6HQVLWLYH ,QIRUPDWLRQ An electronic copy of the public version of the Company’s Application may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company, Lisa R. Crabtree, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or lcrabtree@mcguirewoods.com. 2Q RU EHIRUH -DQXDU\ DQ\ LQWHUHVWHG SHUVRQ PD\ ¿OH FRPPHQWV RQ WKH $SSOLFDWLRQ E\ IROORZLQJ WKH LQVWUXFWLRQV RQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V ZHEVLWH scc.virginia.gov/casecomments/Submit-Public-Comments RU E\ ¿OLQJ VXFK FRPPHQWV ZLWK WKH &OHUN RI WKH 6WDWH &RUSRUDWLRQ &RPPLVVLRQ F R 'RFXPHQW &RQWURO &HQWHU 3 2 %R[ 5LFKPRQG 9LUJLQLD 23218-2118. All comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2021-00110.

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Richmond Free Press

Downtown annuals

Editorial Page

August 12-14, 2021

Mask up, vax up Count us in when it comes to supporting the COVID-19 vaccine mandates issued last week by Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney and Gov. Ralph S. Northam. One only has to look at the alarming rise in the number of positive COVID-19 cases in the city and statewide to understand that only vaccines, mask wearing and social distancing will prevent a sequel to last year’s coronavirus horror show. This virus is no joke. The numbers we publish each week in the “Free COVID-19 testing and vaccines” box on Page A1 of the Free Press detailing the numbers of cases, hospitalizations and deaths statewide and the percentage of deaths and hospitalizations among African-Americans and people of color are there for a purpose. We want readers to be informed about the community’s progress in battling a virus that shows no pity. And we want people to see how, as the numbers of people fully vaccinated has stalled just above 50 percent, it has given COVID-19 an opportunity to creep back in and claim more lives and sicken more of our fellow Richmonders. In the city of Richmond alone, more than 18,100 people have tested positive for the virus, with an average of 50 new cases reported daily during the last week. To date, 281 of our fellow Richmonders have died since the pandemic began early last year, according to the state Health Department data. Digging a little deeper into the data the state updates daily on the COVID-19 dashboard that is available to the public on www.vdh.virginia.gov, only 55.8 percent of Richmonders age 12 and older have been vaccinated. Broken down by race, only 39 percent of the city’s Black residents who are eligible to get the vaccine have gotten inoculated. We don’t understand why these percentages are so low when our community has been disproportionately hit by the number of deaths and cases. As COVID-19 numbers rise across the country, it is no wonder that communities have started to turn from the carrot to the stick in approaching vaccines. Instead of offering free ice cream and doughnuts, states, localities, school divisions and companies are beginning to require that their employees and students get vaccinated if they want to continue to work or study where they are. Battling COVID-19 is a matter of public health, and making schools and workplaces safe for students and workers and those they come in contact with must be given priority over politics. So we applaud Mayor Stoney for announcing on Aug. 4 that all city employees must be fully vaccinated by Oct. 1. And we applaud Gov. Northam for announcing on Aug. 5 that starting Sept. 1, all 122,000 state employees must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or undergo regular testing for the virus. Jason Kamras, superintendent of Richmond Public Schools, which is set to welcome back more than 20,000 students in less than four weeks, also wants to mandate that all school employees be fully vaccinated. A large number of city students are under age 12 and aren’t eligible to receive the vaccine. But we urge the families of those who are age 12 and older to have their children vaccinated. It will be crucial to protecting children and parents and others in the household from this super-contagious delta variant. According to news reports, Pfizer plans to seek emergency authorization in September or October for its vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. That gives us hope. Already, we are hearing warnings from well-placed sources that another lockdown may be imminent in the next six weeks if the numbers of vaccines don’t go up and the number of cases continue to rise. We do not, however, go as far as some who believe that unvaccinated people should sign away their right to hospital treatment for COVID-19 because they refused to get the life-saving vaccine. We don’t want another lockdown and we don’t want treatment to be withheld from the unvaccinated. We must continue to show compassion, even to those who seem to have no compassion for those they may infect by remaining unvaccinated. The best course of action for all people is for those who are eligible to step up, roll up their sleeves and get a shot. It may save your life or that of someone you love.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Redistricting Commission ‘more focused on political outcome’ During the campaign to pass Virginia Constitutional Amendment #1 to create a redistricting commission, some of the strongest opposition came from members of the Virginia Black Legislative Caucus. Black representatives were concerned about whether a commission could or would adequately protect the interests of Black and minority voters in Virginia. These concerns were not limited solely to the composition of the commission, but as to whether the commission would include Black and minority voices as part of the process. Black Virginians have been the repeated victims of racial and political gerrymandering. Rather than go into detail, there are several exceptionally good books on this topic, including “Gerrymanders: How Redistricting Has Protected Slavery, White Supremacy, and Partisan Minorities in Virginia” by Brian Tarter. As a result of racial and political gerrymandering, every

single Virginia redistricting law during the last 30 years was challenged in court. Supporters of Constitutional Amendment #1 argued that a commission would better serve the public interest and help forestall future partisan and racial gerrymandering. To date the Redistricting

Phillip E. Thompson Commission has seemed more focused on a political outcome as evidenced by its decision to hire Republican and Democratic legal counsel rather than develop a clear strategy to break away from the mistakes of Virginia’s redistricting past. A tremendous amount of effort and treasure went into bringing the Virginia Redistricting Commission into existence. Black and minority voters bucked their political leadership to help pass the constitutional amendment. More than anyone, they knew the impact of partisan and racial gerrymandering on their voting power and their ability to fully participate in this democracy in Virginia. Their anticipation was that the commission would steer

clear of maps associated with past gerrymandering, which focused more on protecting incumbent politicians than the interests of minority and poor voters. They fully assumed that past legislative district maps tainted by political deal making would not serve as the basis for new maps being drawn in 2021. In addition, there was an expectation that the commission also would focus outreach efforts on those communities victimized by past political and racial gerrymandering. Instead, we have watched as the Redistricting Commission conducted a seemingly halfhearted community outreach program designed more as a “check in the box” rather than a true consultation and outreach effort designed to focus on and obtain information on minority and poor communities of interest. There is still time for this commission to conduct a more targeted public outreach program to communities historically impacted by partisan and racial gerrymandering. The commission also must look to divorce itself from the gerrymandering sins of Virginia’s past and de-

Protect democracy: Fix U.S. Supreme Court It has been six months since the Biden-Harris administration began, ushering in an era of hope after four bitter and disheartening years. We have much to celebrate. At the same time, there are ways in which our future is wavering on a knife’s edge: Will we fulfill the promise of a more inclusive democracy, or be dragged backward by the same forces that tried to reverse the presidential election on Jan. 6? Will our federal government step up to protect voting rights, or will more and more states suppress them? Can we protect and expand health care? I am proud of the commitment of advocates who are pushing the Biden-Harris administration and the new leadership in Congress to be their best. But there is another critically important step we have to take if we want voting rights, or health care, or workers’ rights, reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, or any of the rights we are fighting for to survive. We have to fix our Supreme Court. For decades now, the same far-right forces that are fighting justice and equal rights for all of our citizens have been working to pack our federal courts. Their crowning achievement has been the capture of the U.S. Supreme Court, now dominated by ultraconservatives. The Supreme Court has dealt devastating blows to the federal Voting Rights Act. The court has made it easier for

companies to violate the rights of working people. It opened our elections to unlimited spending by corporate interests. And it is undermining health and safety regulations. This matters greatly because, even as we welcome the opportunities for change that we voted for in electing the Biden-Harris administration and Democratic leadership in Congress, there is

Ben Jealous a real risk that laws passed now — for progress that real people want — could be eviscerated by a far right Supreme Court. We can’t let that happen. Fortunately, there are solutions on the table. President Biden has formed a Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court of the United States to study ideas for reforming the court. They include a first-ever code of ethics for U.S. Supreme Court justices — a good idea in any era. They also include proposals that would address the unique moment we are in now, when the court has been so politicized and distorted by partisan interests. One idea is to set term limits for justices. Another is to add more seats to the court, which would have a direct impact in easing the current crisis of a “captured court.” There will be lively debate over these proposals, including pushback from traditionalists who think we should not mess with the makeup of the court. But the number of seats on the court has been changed before — not once, but half a dozen times. It’s also important to remember that we didn’t get here though a traditional or normal

course of events. The current court makeup was achieved by cynical political machinations of U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, the former Senate Majority Leader. Sen. McConnell refused to hold hearings for President Obama’s SCOTUS nominee Merrick Garland, thereby stealing the seat for Neil Gorsuch. He did this on the flimsy pretext that it was too close to a presidential election. Then, proving conclusively that he has no shame, Sen. McConnell forced through Amy Coney Barrett’s confirmation for the late Justice Ginsburg’s seat even though voting had already begun in the next presidential election. So there are clear wrongs to be remedied. The Roberts Supreme Court is losing the confidence of the American people, if it hasn’t lost it already. In its current form, it is becoming a political body incapable of protecting the rights of all, interested only in those of the privileged and powerful. And that means Supreme Court reform needs to be an integral part of our campaigns for justice and equity on all fronts. We are fighting too hard for justice to see progress wrecked on the shoals of a rock-solid conservative court. Let’s raise our voices for term limits and more Supreme Court seats at the same time we’re calling for the For the People Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, the Equality Act, immigration reform, reproductive rights, health care and fair pay. Let’s not trust our future to a captured court. The writer is president of People for the American Way and the People for the American Way Foundation.

The Free Press welcomes letters The Richmond Free Press respects the opinions of its readers. We want to hear from you. We invite you to write the editor. All letters will be considered for publication. Concise, typewritten letters related to public matters are preferred. Also include your telephone number(s). Letters should be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, Richmond Free Press, P.O. Box 27709, 422 East Franklin Street, Richmond, VA 23261, or faxed to: (804) 643-7519 or e-mail: letters@richmondfreepress.com.

velop new maps not tied to old political deal making. The National Black Nonpartisan Redistricting Organization will continue its effort to bring data and voices from marginalized voters and communities before this commission. But the commission must do its part by not tying itself to the sins of Virginia’s gerrymandering past and listen to those most impacted by past legislative backroom deals on redistricting. If not, this commission, too, will see its maps suffer the same judicial rebukes and redrafting as the gerrymandered maps of Virginia’s past, and that will not represent any of the change we all worked for and anticipated over the last three-plus years. The writer, an attorney and former president of the Loudoun County Branch NAACP, is executive director of the National Black Nonpartisan Redistricting Organization.

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Richmond Free Press

August 12-14, 2021 A9

Letters to the Editor

GOP candidate a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ I was disgusted when I saw the Republican candidate for governor, Glenn Youngkin, surrounded by Black folks at a recent news conference at Virginia Union University. Do these Black folks not know that he had a commercial on TV where he was surrounded by a large group of white men in black suits with two token Negroes and two token Asians in the background with the implication that we will be taking over? Do these Negroes know that he is a follower of former President Trump, who calls white supremacists good men?

Do they not know that Donald Trump is behind the movement to suppress Black votes? Do they not know that Donald Trump was behind the January insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, yet this candidate is endorsed by Trump? Glenn Youngkin is a wolf in sheep’s clothing, using his money to lure Black votes. Wake up, Virginia Union. Do not be deceived. God is not mocked. We do not need a Trumpkin in the Governor’s Mansion. Mr. Youngkin’s words seem nice, but he is trying to buy this election. Former Gov. McAuliffe, the Democratic

candidate for governor, get your act together. Black people, get your act together before it’s too late and we have a Trumpkin in the mansion. Black preachers, Black politicians, white folks,

Asian folks, young folks, all folks — wake up and support Terry McAuliffe for governor. STEPHEN FORD Glen Allen

Send A.P. Hill’s remains ‘back to his hometown’ Re “ ‘From monument desecration to grave robbing,’ ” Letter to the Editor, Free Press July 29-31 edition: I want to thank Mr. H.V. Traywick for yet another enlightening and amusing letter to the Free Press. Enlightening, because I appreciate knowing what’s going on in the 1890s. Amusing, because he refers to the Richmond government as “grave robbers” when it comes to plans to remove the A.P. Hill statue at the intersection of Hermitage Road and Laburnum Avenue. Without getting into the politics of Confederate Gen. A.P. Hill and what his monument represents, Mr. Traywick may be interested to know that when it comes to A.P. Hill, the original grave robbers were in fact the Lost Cause folks he loves so much. Confederate Gen. A.P. Hill was killed at Petersburg a few days before Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee’s surrender in 1865. In 1867, his remains were moved to Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond. In 1892, his remains were moved again — or grave-robbed as Mr. Traywick might put it — to where they currently are, under the monument at a busy intersection in Richmond. Who moved his body twice? Well, I can assure it wasn’t youthful left wing agitators. And when he was moved to his current location, there were no cars, trucks or other vehicles flying through at a regular clip to get to Interstate 64 and elsewhere. One can only assume Mr. Traywick does not have to pass

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this monument just about every time he drives into the city. I do; I live in Lakeside. The Hermitage/Laburnum intersection is a traffic nightmare. Just the other day, I saw an accident there. Every time someone must pass this monument, you come within inches of hitting its base. The monument could not be more obtrusive. While Mr. Traywick no doubt doesn’t want to pay for expensive improvements to RVA’s infrastructure, removing this monument and modernizing the intersection

is a great idea. Well worth the expense. What to do with the Hill monument and the general’s remains? Well, A.P. Hill was not a Richmonder—not born here and didn’t go to school or die here. He was from Culpeper. Hopefully, his remains can be sent back to his hometown, where he can at last rest in peace. And I hope they’ll let Mr. Traywick visit the statue whenever he wants to.

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NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF AN APPLICATION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY D/B/A DOMINION ENERGY VIRGINIA FOR APPROVAL OF A RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE: RIDER R, BEAR GARDEN GENERATING STATION CASE NO. PUR-2021-00113 •Virginia Electric and Power Company d/b/a Dominion Energy Virginia (“Dominion”) has applied for approval to revise its rate adjustment clause, Rider R. •In this case, Dominion has asked the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) to approve a biennial update procedure for Rider R with two consecutive rate years. The proposed rate years for this proceeding are April 1, 2022, through March 31, 2023 (“Rate Year 1”), and April 1, 2023, through March 31, 2024 (“Rate Year 2”). •For Rate Year 1, Dominion requests a revenue requirement of $59,159,000, which would increase the bill of a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month by $0.07. •For Rate Year 2, Dominion requests a revenue requirement of $54,940,000, which would decrease the bill of a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month by $0.07 as compared to Rate Year 1. •A Hearing Examiner appointed by the Commission will hold a telephonic hearing in this case on January 26, 2022, at 10 a.m., for the receipt of public witness testimony. $Q HYLGHQWLDU\ KHDULQJ ZLOO EH KHOG RQ -DQXDU\ DW D P HLWKHU LQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V VHFRQG ÀRRU FRXUWURRP ORFDWHG LQ WKH 7\OHU %XLOGLQJ (DVW 0DLQ 6WUHHW 5LFKPRQG 9LUJLQLD RU by electronic means. Further details on this hearing will be provided by subsequent Commission Order or Hearing Examiner’s Ruling. •Further information about this case is available on the SCC website at: scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information. 2Q -XQH 9LUJLQLD (OHFWULF DQG 3RZHU &RPSDQ\ ³'RPLQLRQ´ RU ³&RPSDQ\´ ¿OHG ZLWK WKH 6WDWH &RUSRUDWLRQ &RPPLVVLRQ ³&RPPLVVLRQ´ D ELHQQLDO XSGDWH RI WKH &RPSDQ\¶V UDWH DGMXVWPHQW clause, Rider R (“Application”) pursuant to § 56 585.1 A 6 of the Code of Virginia. Through its Application, the Company seeks to recover costs associated with the Bear Garden Generating Station (“Bear *DUGHQ´ RU ³3URMHFW´ D QDWXUDO JDV DQG RLO ¿UHG FRPELQHG F\FOH HOHFWULF JHQHUDWLQJ IDFLOLW\ DQG DVVRFLDWHG WUDQVPLVVLRQ LQWHUFRQQHFWLRQ IDFLOLWLHV ORFDWHG LQ %XFNLQJKDP &RXQW\ 9LUJLQLD In Case No. PUE-2008-00014, the Commission approved Dominion’s construction and operation of Bear Garden. In Case No. PUE-2009-00017, the Commission approved a rate adjustment clause, designated Rider R, for Dominion to recover costs associated with the development of the Project. Bear Garden became fully operational in 2011. In this proceeding, Dominion has asked the Commission to approve a biennial update procedure for Rider R with two consecutive rate years. The proposed rate years for this proceeding are April 1, 2022, through March 31, 2023 (“Rate Year 1”), and April 1, 2023, through March 31, 2024 (“Rate Year 2”). The two components of the proposed total revenue requirement for Rate Year 1 are the Projected Cost Recovery Factor and the Actual Cost True-Up Factor. For Rate Year 1, the Company is requesting a Projected Cost Recovery Factor revenue requirement of $54,374,000 and an Actual Cost True-Up Factor revenue requirement of $4,785,000. Thus, the Company is requesting a total revenue requirement of $59,159,000 for service rendered during Rate Year 1. The total revenue requirement for Rate Year 2 is comprised only of a Projected Cost Recovery Factor. For Rate Year 2, Dominion seeks approval of a total revenue requirement of $54,940,000. For purposes of calculating the revenue requirements in this case, Dominion used a rate of return on common equity (“ROE”) of 9.2%. This ROE was approved by the Commission in Case No. PUR 201900050. If the proposed Rider R revenue requirements for Rate Year 1 and Rate Year 2 are approved, the impact on customer bills would depend on the customer’s rate schedule and usage. According to Dominion, for Rate Year 1, implementation of its proposed Rider R on April 1, 2022, would increase the bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month by approximately $0.07. The Company states that, for Rate Year 2, implementation of its proposed Rider R on April 1, 2023, would decrease the bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month by approximately $0.07 as compared to Rate Year 1. Dominion indicates it has calculated the proposed Rider R rates in accordance with the same methodology as used for rates approved by the Commission in the most recent Rider R proceeding, Case No. PUR-2020-00101. 7KLV $SSOLFDWLRQ LV RQH RI VL[ ¿OLQJV 'RPLQLRQ PDGH RQ RU DERXW -XQH IRU UHFRYHU\ RI IXQGV UHODWHG WR FDSLWDO SURMHFWV ,I WKH UHYHQXH UHTXLUHPHQWV LQ WKHVH ¿OLQJV DUH DSSURYHG DV SURSRVHG WKH cumulative impact would be a monthly increase of approximately $0.41 for a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month for the period April 1, 2022, through March 31, 2023. Interested persons are encouraged to review Dominion’s Application and supporting documents in full for details about these and other proposals. 7$.( 127,&( WKDW WKH &RPPLVVLRQ PD\ DSSRUWLRQ UHYHQXHV DPRQJ FXVWRPHU FODVVHV DQG RU GHVLJQ UDWHV LQ D PDQQHU GL൵HULQJ IURP WKDW VKRZQ LQ WKH $SSOLFDWLRQ DQG VXSSRUWLQJ GRFXPHQWV DQG WKXV PD\ DGRSW UDWHV WKDW GL൵HU IURP WKRVH DSSHDULQJ LQ WKH &RPSDQ\¶V $SSOLFDWLRQ DQG VXSSRUWLQJ GRFXPHQWV The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing that, among other things, scheduled public hearings on Dominion’s Application. On January 26, 2022, at 10 a.m., a Hearing Examiner appointed by the Commission will hold a telephonic hearing for the purpose of receiving the testimony of public witnesses, with no public witness present in the Commission’s courtroom. On or before January 21, DQ\ SHUVRQ GHVLULQJ WR R൵HU WHVWLPRQ\ DV D SXEOLF ZLWQHVV VKDOO SURYLGH WR WKH &RPPLVVLRQ D \RXU QDPH DQG E WKH WHOHSKRQH QXPEHU WKDW \RX ZLVK WKH &RPPLVVLRQ WR FDOO GXULQJ WKH KHDULQJ WR UHFHLYH \RXU WHVWLPRQ\ 7KLV LQIRUPDWLRQ PD\ EH SURYLGHG WR WKH &RPPLVVLRQ LQ WKUHH ZD\V L E\ ¿OOLQJ RXW D IRUP RQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V ZHEVLWH DW scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting; (ii) by completing and emailing the PDF version of this form to SCCInfo@scc.virginia.gov; or (iii) by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting. 2Q -DQXDU\ DW D P HLWKHU LQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V VHFRQG ÀRRU FRXUWURRP ORFDWHG LQ WKH 7\OHU %XLOGLQJ (DVW 0DLQ 6WUHHW 5LFKPRQG 9LUJLQLD RU E\ HOHFWURQLF PHDQV D +HDULQJ ([DPLQHU DSSRLQWHG E\ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ ZLOO FRQYHQH D KHDULQJ WR UHFHLYH WHVWLPRQ\ DQG HYLGHQFH R൵HUHG E\ WKH &RPSDQ\ DQ\ UHVSRQGHQWV DQG WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 6WD൵ RQ WKH &RPSDQ\¶V $SSOLFDWLRQ Further details on this hearing will be provided by subsequent Commission Order or Hearing Examiner’s Ruling. The Commission has taken judicial notice of the ongoing public health emergency related to the spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, and the declarations of emergency issued at both the state and federal levels. In accordance therewith, all pleadings, briefs, or other documents required to be served in this matter should be submitted electronically to the extent authorized by 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format RI WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH DQG 3URFHGXUH ³5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH´ &RQ¿GHQWLDO DQG ([WUDRUGLQDULO\ 6HQVLWLYH ,QIRUPDWLRQ VKDOO QRW EH VXEPLWWHG HOHFWURQLFDOO\ DQG VKRXOG FRPSO\ with 5 VAC 5-20-170, &RQ¿GHQWLDO LQIRUPDWLRQ RI WKH 5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH $Q\ SHUVRQ VHHNLQJ WR KDQG GHOLYHU DQG SK\VLFDOO\ ¿OH RU VXEPLW DQ\ SOHDGLQJ RU RWKHU GRFXPHQW VKDOO FRQWDFW WKH &OHUN¶V 2൶FH Document Control Center at (804) 371-9838 to arrange the delivery. 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Call Rudy McCollum at (804)218-3614 24-7. Talk to an attorney for free

and get legal restrictions, fees, costs and payment terms.

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Mail to: P.O. Box 4595, Richmond, VA 23220 422 E. Franklin St., Suite 301, Richmond, VA 23219 (Franklin & 5th Sts.) We are a federally designated Debt Relief Agency under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and we help people file for bankruptcy.

Web Address: McCollumatLaw.com E-mail: rudy@mccollumatlaw.com

2Q RU EHIRUH -DQXDU\ DQ\ LQWHUHVWHG SHUVRQ PD\ ¿OH FRPPHQWV RQ WKH $SSOLFDWLRQ E\ IROORZLQJ WKH LQVWUXFWLRQV RQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V ZHEVLWH scc.virginia.gov/casecomments/Submit-Public-Comments RU E\ ¿OLQJ VXFK FRPPHQWV ZLWK WKH &OHUN RI WKH 6WDWH &RUSRUDWLRQ &RPPLVVLRQ F R 'RFXPHQW &RQWURO &HQWHU 3 2 %R[ 5LFKPRQG 9LUJLQLD 23218-2118. All comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2021-00113. 2Q RU EHIRUH 1RYHPEHU DQ\ SHUVRQ RU HQWLW\ ZLVKLQJ WR SDUWLFLSDWH DV D UHVSRQGHQW LQ WKLV SURFHHGLQJ PD\ GR VR E\ ¿OLQJ D QRWLFH RI SDUWLFLSDWLRQ ZLWK WKH &OHUN RI WKH &RPPLVVLRQ DW WKH DGGUHVV above or at VFF YLUJLQLD JRY FON H¿OLQJ. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel. The respondent simultaneously shall serve a copy of the notice of participation on counsel to the Company. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, 3DUWLFLSDWLRQ DV D UHVSRQGHQW, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice, any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement RI WKH LQWHUHVW RI WKH UHVSRQGHQW LL D VWDWHPHQW RI WKH VSHFL¿F DFWLRQ VRXJKW WR WKH H[WHQW WKHQ NQRZQ DQG LLL WKH IDFWXDO DQG OHJDO EDVLV IRU WKH DFWLRQ $Q\ RUJDQL]DWLRQ FRUSRUDWLRQ RU JRYHUQPHQW ERG\ participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by 5 VAC 5-20-30, &RXQVHO RI WKH 5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH $OO ¿OLQJV VKDOO UHIHU WR &DVH 1R 385 2Q RU EHIRUH 1RYHPEHU HDFK UHVSRQGHQW PD\ ¿OH ZLWK WKH &OHUN RI WKH &RPPLVVLRQ DW WKH DGGUHVV DERYH RU DW VFF YLUJLQLD JRY FON H¿OLQJ DQG VHUYH RQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 6WD൵ WKH &RPSDQ\ DQG DOO RWKHU UHVSRQGHQWV DQ\ WHVWLPRQ\ DQG H[KLELWV E\ ZKLFK WKH UHVSRQGHQW H[SHFWV WR HVWDEOLVK LWV FDVH DQG HDFK ZLWQHVV¶V WHVWLPRQ\ VKDOO LQFOXGH D VXPPDU\ QRW WR H[FHHG RQH SDJH ,Q DOO ¿OLQJV respondents shall comply with the Commission’s Rules of Practice, including 5 VAC 5-20-140, )LOLQJ DQG VHUYLFH, and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits $OO ¿OLQJV VKDOO UHIHU WR &DVH 1R PUR-2021-00113. $Q\ GRFXPHQWV ¿OHG LQ SDSHU IRUP ZLWK WKH 2൶FH RI WKH &OHUN RI WKH &RPPLVVLRQ LQ WKLV GRFNHW PD\ XVH ERWK VLGHV RI WKH SDSHU ,Q DOO RWKHU UHVSHFWV H[FHSW DV PRGL¿HG E\ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 2UGHU IRU 1RWLFH DQG +HDULQJ DOO ¿OLQJV VKDOO FRPSO\ IXOO\ ZLWK WKH UHTXLUHPHQWV RI 9$& Copies and format, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice. 7KH SXEOLF YHUVLRQ RI WKH &RPSDQ\¶V $SSOLFDWLRQ DQG RWKHU GRFXPHQWV ¿OHG LQ WKLV FDVH WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 5XOHV RI 3UDFWLFH DQG WKH &RPPLVVLRQ¶V 2UGHU IRU 1RWLFH DQG +HDULQJ PD\ EH YLHZHG DW scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information. VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY D/B/A DOMINION ENERGY VIRGINIA

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August 12-14, 2021 B1

Richmond Free Press

Section

Happenings

Personality: Dr. Cyrillene ‘C.C.’ Clark Spotlight on board chair of Voices for Virginia’s Children With school about to begin for many of Virginia’s youths, and the COVID-19 pandemic still posing a danger to public health, the work of Voices for Virginia’s Children and its board chair, Dr. Cyrillene “C.C.” Clark, is more important than ever. The Northern Virginia resident has been leading the Henrico County-based nonprofit since January, and she is fully aware of the value the organization brings to Virginia’s children at this moment in time. She is more than happy to do her part. “I’m grateful to be able to do it,” Dr. Clark says. “I can’t imagine a more important thing than to have the opportunity to help lots of kids by impacting laws and systems.” The mission of Voices for Virginia’s Children is quite simple: To champion public policies that improve the lives of Virginia’s children. The organization collects and analyzes state data through its Kids Count Data Center and uses that information to address issues in education, health and mental health, economic security, foster care and adoption, and racial disparities that impact children. Their efforts are all centered on building a comprehensive policy agenda they can take to legislators and ensure a better environment for Virginia’s children. “What happens in childhood, what happens to children, creates who we are as adults and affects our entire society,” Dr. Clark says. “There is no more important lever than a good childhood for a thriving, equitable, peaceful society.” In its 27-year history, Voices has been instrumental in ensuring 4-year-olds have access to pre-kindergarten classes; that broader access to mental health treatment is available for Virginia’s children; that children in foster care have greater opportunities to establish permanent family connections; and that appropriate day care is available for children from low-income families. From Aug. 22 through 28, Voices for Virginia’s Children is hosting its second annual Racial Truth and Reconciliation Week, featuring a series of virtual seminars and sessions on a variety of topics, including disparities in COVID-19 and its impact on Virginia’s children and families to diversity and representation in literature. The week culminates with a rally 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 28, at the Bell Tower in Capital Square in Downtown where children’s advocates and allies can show their support for social justice, racial healing and policy priorities to help children. A schedule of events is available at https://vakids.org/ rtrw-2021-full-schedule The week will “bring people together to have honest and forthright conversations about race with the aim of promoting healing, reconciliation and justice,” Dr. Clark says. It also will allow the nonprofit to further improve their work through a focus on the issues and needs children are facing. Dr. Clark first joined the board of Voices for Virginia’s Children in 2018, at the recommendation of a former boss already serving with the group. In her current role as chair, she ensures their efforts to lobby for public policies that

improve children’s lives are run efficiently and properly. Voices has had to adopt a number of virtual methods during COVID-19 to maintain their work, which includes collaborations with partner organizations and grassroots groups. They also have had to adjust their advocacy with the advent of new resources, like those from the federal American Rescue Plan, to ensure its best use in the long term. Dr. Clark says the organization’s staff has been quick to seize the moment. With a goal of spreading greater awareness of Voices for Virginia’s Children, and an ongoing goal of helping children in the state thrive, Dr. Clark is clearly committed to the nonprofit’s mission. And she’s hopeful that the work being done to promote the group and spread its efforts will bring others into the fold. “I’m proud of Voices,” Dr. Clark says. “We’re the preeminent organization in Virginia speaking for children. Regardless of the strange circumstances right now of the world, I just feel really thankful that they can do that.” Meet a leading voice for Virginia’s children and this week’s Personality, Dr. Cyrillene “C.C.” Clark: No. 1 volunteer position: Chair of the Board of Directors, Voices for Virginia’s Children. Date and place of birth: Jan. 31 in New York. Where I live now: Arlington. Education: Ph.D., Industrial & Organizational Psychology. Occupation: Talent management consultant. Family: Fantastic husband and two, equally fantastic, recently grown-up kids. Mission of Voices for Virginia’s Children: To champion public policies that improve the lives of Virginia’s children. When and why Voices for Virginia’s Children was founded: Ever notice that there are lobbyists for practically every industry, business and association you can think of? Ever wonder who speaks for kids? That’s us! Voices began 27 years ago as “The Action Alliance for Virginia’s Children and Youth.” From the beginning, we were about taking an active role on behalf of children. Important role Voices plays: The one thing all adults have in common is that they were once a child. What happens in childhood, what happens to children, creates who we are as adults and affects our

entire society. There is no more important lever than a good childhood for a thriving, equitable, peaceful society. Therefore, we are staunch and unapologetic advocates for children in Virginia. Voices’ relationship to state government: We are a nonprofit. We are independent. We are strictly nonpartisan. Through our Kids Count Data Center, we provide information to legislators and others in our Commonwealth’s government so that they have the facts they need to make decisions that impact children. In addition to providing data, our policy team forges relationships with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to discuss the needs of children, help them think through how best to serve those needs, and to advocate for new laws benefiting children and their families or caregivers. How Voices’ legislative agenda is developed: We start with data. Our Kids Count Data Center identifies trends and exposes disparities. We reach out to people in impacted communities and partner organizations to understand needs. Then our policy team defines issues and crafts a clear agenda. How Voices influenced the establishment of the Marcus Alert: While we did not take a lead in the establishment of the Marcus Alert, we actively served on the Equity at Intercept 0 workgroup that provided input to the Marcus Alert draft plan for the state. Also, we supported a survey that focused on best practices for children and youths and presented the results to all of those involved. When elected chair of the board: January 2021. Length of term: Two years.

Why I accepted position: Why not! I can’t imagine a more important thing than to have the opportunity to help lots of kids by impacting laws and systems. No. 1 goal or project as chair: Enable a very intentional approach to spreading awareness about Voices so that we can better serve children in every part of the Commonwealth. Strategy for achieving goal: This spotlight helps! Thank you! We’re becoming better known, and we’re better understanding needs throughout the Commonwealth by bringing on fantastic board members from all over Virginia. Our board members will become more visible in our communities. We also have a new CEO who brings years of nonprofit leadership experience and new ideas to propel us forward. Declaring racism as a public health crisis in Virginia: Delegate Lashrecse Aird, who represents a district that includes Petersburg and parts of Chesterfield, Prince George, Dinwiddie and Hopewell, introduced and championed the House Joint Resolution that passed in February. The resolution defined racism as a social system that unfairly disadvantages some and advantages others. Voices supported this resolution as racial inequities substantially contribute to adverse outcomes for Virginia’s children. Allies of Voices: Voices’ allies consists of anyone who cares about kids and is willing to act on their behalf or fund action on their behalf. We value the lived experiences of children, youth and their parents and encourage their engagement, participation and advocacy in creating more impactful opportunities. What is Racial Truth and Reconciliation Week: RTRW is in its second year and was the brainchild of Voices staff member Chlo’e Edwards. It is a campaign to bring people together to have honest and forthright conversations about race with the aim of promoting healing, reconciliation and justice. Voices’ focus as it relates to RTRW is squarely on children — highlighting their needs and bringing a more informed lens to our advocacy work. This year’s RTR Week will be Aug. 22 through 28. Role the grassroots community plays with Voices: Voices connects with grassroots orga-

nizations as well as individuals with lived experience related to the issues about which we advocate. We listen, mobilize and sometimes provide training. We use what we learn from the community to inform our policy agenda. How I start the day: John McQuiston II writes in “Always We Begin Again,” “Each day carries the potential to bring the experience of heaven; have the courage to expect good from it.” I hadn’t always thought of expecting good as a courageous act, but I do think it requires faith and courage. I try to embrace that outlook. Three words that best describe me: Attentive, determined and focused. Best late-night snack: Homemade pound cake. How I unwind: Taking a walk. What I am learning about myself during the pandemic: There are so many new things I’d like to try. I didn’t have time to think about that when life was busier. Something I love to do that

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most people would never imagine: Ice skate. Quote that I am most inspired by: “Reacting in anger or annoyance will not advance one’s ability to persuade.” — Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. At the top of my “to-do” list: Making sure my kids are successfully launched. Best thing my parents ever taught me: The importance of education. Person who influenced me the most: Of course, my parents were enormously influential. In addition, I “adopted” a neighbor to be my grandmother since my grandma was in Barbados. There is nothing like the wisdom, perspective and calm temperament of older people to help children as they grow up. Book that influenced me the most: “Coming of Age in Mississippi” by Anne Moody. What I’m reading now: “The Emancipation of Evan Walls” by Jeffrey Blount. Next goal: My ongoing goal is to help kids thrive.

Richmond Free Press

B2 August 12-14, 2021

Happenings Unveiling history

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Scores of people turned out Aug. 6 for the official unveiling of the mural honoring the first Black firefighters hired by the City of Richmond. The 10 trailblazers were hired July 1, 1950, and were stationed at Engine Company No. 9 at 5th and Duval streets in Jackson Ward. The commemorative

mural was done by local artists Sir James Thornhill, Jason Ford and Kevin Orlosky, and is situated on the side of the Mocha Temple No. 7 Shrine building at 613 N. 2nd St. in Jackson Ward. Below, members of Mocha Temple step to the sounds of “Fire” by the Ohio Players after the ceremony and pose for a group photo with, at center, Mayor Levar M. Stoney; Mr. Thornhill; and Fire Chief Melvin D. Carter. The unveiling was the kickoff of a weekend of activities sponsored by Engine Company #9 and Associates remembering and honoring the original firefighters.

Bright Minds RVA Chess Classes, Tournament to start Aug. 16 Richmond youths ages 14 to 16 will have the opportunity to learn chess and compete in a tournament this month through Bright Minds RVA Chess Classes and Tournament, a pilot program set up by the Bernice E. Travers Foundation. Students will learn the game in two weeks through classes taught Ms. Travers 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Aug. 16, through Thursday, Aug. 19, and again, Monday, Aug. 23, through Thursday, Aug. 26. The classes will lead to a tournament to be held 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 27. The classes and tournament will be held at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, 122 W. Leigh St. in Jackson Ward. Lunch and snacks will be provided daily, along with Black history education and museum tours. Instructors are Fleming E. Samuels, a retired Richmond Public Schools administrator, who also will serve as tournament director, and Dr. Theodore Andrews of Hampton University. Monetary prizes and awards will be presented to the three top winners of the tournament, while all participants will receive framed certificates and membership in the Bright Minds RVA Chess Club. The pilot program is the brainchild of Mr. Fleming and Bernice Travers of the foundation. Other partners include the Black History Museum, Richmond Public Schools, GRTC, Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority and other community leaders. Students can ride GRTC free to the museum to participate in the program. Participation is limited to 40 students. To enroll, contact brightmindschessclub@gmail.com or call Ms. Travers at (804) 814-4434.

‘Respect:’ A musical masterpiece that captures Aretha Franklin’s essence By Dwight Brown NNPA News Wire Film Critic

“They want to hear you sing,” says the Rev. C.L. Franklin (played by actor Forest Whitaker) to his 10year-old daughter, Aretha (played by Skye Dakota Turner). And she did—eventually singAretha ing herself into 25 Grammys, a posthumously awarded Pulitzer Prize Special Citation and the history books. How Ms. Franklin became the “Queen of Soul” and loved by millions is the subject of “Respect,” a fairly detailed and very entertaining biopic that charts her rise from childhood to 1972 and her making of the classic, live-recorded album, “Amazing Grace.” This film, which opens in theaters on Friday, Aug. 13, stars Jennifer Hudson, the singer who was hand-picked by Ms. Franklin to play her. Like a queen anointing a princess, Ms. Franklin said, “I’ve made my decision, and it is you, young lady, who I want to play me.” That endorsement makes this film the quintessential Franklin biodrama and any others, not so much. Detroit, 1952, and 10-year-old Aretha is a precocious musical prodigy lauded by her dad, loved by her grandmother (played by Kimberly Scott, “The Abyss”) and envied by her siblings. Years later as a young adult in the 1960s, Ms. Franklin tours churches with her father who watches her like a hawk, warding off suitors. Rev. Franklin helps his daughter land a recording contract with Columbia Records in 1960, and Ms. Franklin releases jazz/pop-orientated albums to little success. When she hooks up with hustler-turned-manager Ted White (played by Marlon Wayans), Rev. Franklin is peeved: “You are not leaving this family for that piece of trash!” Yet this is when Aretha finds her stride. She develops her own brand of soul music, which starts with the gospel/blues tinged, “I Never Loved a Man,” recorded with the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Band on Atlantic records in 1967. The rest is soul music history. Director Liesl Tommy and the film’s producers made a smart decision when they had the entire cast sing live. It’s a strategy that worked wonders for “Les Misérables,” and that directive gives the performances and recreated recording sessions an authenticity that enhances the artistry.

Mr. Whitaker, Ms. Hudson, young Skye and Audra MacDonald as the mother belt out songs. Titus Burgess as the Rev. James Cleveland, Ms. Franklin’s musical mentor; Saycon Sengbloh as the adult sister, Erma; Hailey Kilgore as sister, Carolyn; and Brenda Nicole Moorer as Brenda harmonize well. Franklin Their voices are heavenly, making the songs feel richer. Classics like “Dr. Feelgood,” “Think,” “Ain’t No Way,” “Chain of Fools” and “Sweet Sweet Baby (Since You’ve Been Gone)” resonate so much the music carries the film over any rough spots. The script, by playwright-turned-screenwriter Tracey Scott Wilson, doesn’t miss much in the star’s formative years—Ms. Franklin’s often strained relationship with her domineering dad, tween and teenage pregnancies, Mr. White’s notorious spousal abuse and the singer’s bouts with alcoholism. The latter two plot points provide some of the film’s highest drama, moments when

Ms. Franklin was scared for her life, humiliated in public and facing inner demons that put her on a path of self-destruction. That human frailty is balanced by the exhilarating moments (recording her first hit), shows of courage (civil rights activism with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and supporting activist Angela Davis) and creative breakthroughs (watching the scenes where she arranges songs with the band is magic).

Jennifer Hudson stars as Aretha Franklin in “Respect,” a film about the life of the late “Queen of Soul,” who chose Ms. Hudson to play her in the movie. Below, young Skye Dakota Turner plays a young musical prodigy Aretha in the film, while Audra McDonald stars as Ms. Franklin’s mother, Barbara.

Photos by Quantrell D. Colbert

The characters, large and small, are well drawn with depth and dimension. The dialogue floats safely above a soap opera-ish feel. Mom to her daughter: “Your daddy does not own your voice.” For two hours and 25 minutes, tight editing (Avril Beukes, “Queen Sugar”), a constant influx of historical moments, rousing concert performances, interactions with famous people (Dinah Washington played by Mary J. Blige, Clara Ward by Heather Headley and Smokey Robinson by Lodric D. Collins) and Ms. Franklin’s life journey will keep you entranced. The production design (Ina Mayhew, “Queen Sugar”) aptly recreates the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s. The eyecatching clothes (Clint Ramos, “Lingua Franca”) suit the characters and the times. Their only imperfection is that they often look too new, not lived in. Most of the ensemble performances are strong, with Ms. Hudson as the anchor and her singing as her strongest asset. While her acting cannot match that of a trained thespian (Viola Davis, Angela Basset) and her accent seems to waver at times, she does convey the emotional trauma the star experienced in some very impressive scenes. Her interpretation of Ms. Franklin, when she sings, mimics her walk and gestures and displays that bad-ass attitude, captures the aura

just right. Scenes in which Ms. Hudson wears an Afro wig and revels in her militant “Young, Gifted and Black” phase are the ones when she looks most like Ms. Franklin. Mr. Whitaker as the overbearing father who tests his daughter is appropriately irascible. Everyone who plays the sisters, young and old, sings and acts well. Marc Maron as the legendary record producer Jerry Wexler is sufficiently animated while Mr. Burgess, as the musical director Rev. Cleveland, shows just the right sensibility as Ms. Franklin’s emotional foundation. If there is a weak link, it is Mr. Wayans as the troubled and abusive husband, Mr. White. His performance is tepid and shallow. A real pro, like the late Chadwick Boseman, would have taken this opportunity to turn Mr. White, a pivotal character, into a memorable, menacing persona. Mr. Wayans does not. What’s on view is so fascinating and the storyline so involving and consequential that when the film ends at Ms. Franklin’s famous church concert, you wish there was more. This is where a traditional theatrical film format is lacking. The “Queen of Soul” had a life so rich and long it could fill a miniseries and still not touch all the breakthroughs, influential moments and endearing times that made her such an icon. Still, her legacy has been captured in her records, a bio book “Respect: The Life of Aretha Franklin” and now in a film that captures her essence and dispenses it through the vocal pipes and the acting prowess of the one woman Ms. Franklin herself deemed worthy of telling her story. The entire production is reverential, but Ms. Hudson should be particularly proud. She has done her job. She should take a bow. The “Queen of Soul” knew what she was doing. To watch the trailer, go to https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=qTtxoz3OIlU

Kool & the Gang co-founder Dennis Thomas dies at 70 Free Press wire report

Mr. Thomas

NEW YORK Dennis “Dee Tee” Thomas, a founding member of the long-running, Grammy Awardwinning soul-funk band Kool & the Gang, has died. He was 70. Mr. Thomas died peacefully in his sleep Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021, in New Jersey, where he was a resident of Montclair, according to a statement from his representative.

Mr. Thomas was the alto sax player, flutist and percussionist for the group known for dance hits such as “Celebration” and “Get Down On It.” He served as master of ceremonies at the band’s shows. His last appearance with the group was the Fourth of July at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Born Feb. 9, 1951, in Orlando, Fla., Mr. Thomas was known for his prologue on the band’s 1971 hit, “Who’s Gonna Take the Weight.” Known for

his hip clothes and hats, he was also the group’s wardrobe stylist. In the early days, he served as their “budget hawk,” carrying their earnings in a paper bag stuffed into the bell of his horn, the statement said. In 1964, seven teen friends created the group’s unique blend of jazz, soul and funk, at first calling themselves the Jazziacs. They went through several iterations before settling on Kool & the Gang in 1969. The group’s other founders are

brothers Ronald and Robert Bell, Spike Mickens, Ricky Westfield, George Brown and Charles Smith. Ronald Bell, who played the tenor saxophone, died Sept. 9, 2020, at home in the U.S. Virgin Islands at age 68. Spike Mickens, who played the trumpet, died in 2010; Ricky Westfield, the original keyboardist, died in 1985 after leaving in 1976 to form his own group; and Charles Smith, who played guitar, died in 2006.

The band has earned two Grammy Awards and seven American Music Awards. They were honored in 2014 with a Soul Train Lifetime Achievement Award. Their music is heavily sampled and featured on film sound tracks, including those for “Rocky,” “Saturday Night Fever” and “Pulp Fiction.” Mr. Thomas is survived by his wife, Phynjuar Saunders Thomas; a daughter, Tuesday Rankin; and two sons, David Thomas and Devin Thomas.

Riverview

Moore Street Missionary

Baptist Church

1408 W. Leigh Street · Richmond, Va. 23220 (804) 358—6403

Dr. Alonza L. Lawrence, Pastor

Sunday School – 9:30 AM Sunday Services – 11:00 AM Via Conference Call (515) 606-5187 Pin 572890#

All church ac�vi�es are canceled un�l further no�ce. Follow us on Facebook for “A Word from Moore Street’s Pastor” and weekly Zoom worship info. Drive-thru giving will be available the 1st and 3rd Saturday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the church. (Bowe Street side) You also may give through Givelify. Be safe. Be blessed.

Also Visit Us On Facebook Sunday Service – 11:00 AM 2604 Idlewood Avenue Richmond, Va. 23220 (804) 353-6135 www.riverviewbaptistch.org

Rev. Dr. Stephen L. Hewlett, Pastor

7M\XL &ETXMWX 'LYVGL 8LIQI JSV 1SFMPM^MRK *SV 1MRMWXV] 6IJVIWLMRK 8LI 3PH ERH )QIVKMRK 8LI 2I[ A 21st Century Church With Ministry For Everyone

We Embrace Diversity — Love For All! Come worship with us! Sunday Service will not be held in our sanctuary. Join us for 11:00 AM Worship by going to our website www.sixthbaptistchurch.org

Twitter sixthbaptistrva

400 South Addison Street Richmond, Va. 23220

(near Byrd Park)

(804) 359-1691 or 359-3498 Facebook Fax (804) 359-3798 sixthbaptistrva www.sixthbaptistchurch.org

Rev. Dr. Yvonne Jones Bibbs, Pastor

“The Church With A Welcome”

Sharon Baptist Church

Richmond Free Press

Faith News/Directory Praise, doubts as Facebook rolls out new prayer tool Free Press wire report

Facebook already asks for your thoughts. Now it wants your prayers. The social media giant has rolled out a new prayer request feature, a tool embraced by some religious leaders as a cutting-edge way to engage the faithful online. Others are eyeing it warily as they weigh its usefulness against the privacy and security concerns they have with Facebook. In Facebook Groups employing the feature, members can use it to rally prayer power for upcoming job interviews, illnesses and other personal challenges big and small. After they create a post, other users can tap an “I prayed” button, respond with a “like” or other reaction, leave a comment or send a direct message. Facebook began testing it in the United States in December as part of an ongoing effort to support faith communities, according to a statement attributed to a company spokesperson. “During the COVID-19 pan-

demic we’ve seen many faith and spirituality communities using our services to connect, so we’re starting to explore new tools to support them,” it said. The Rev. Robert Jeffress of First Baptist Church in Dallas, a Southern Baptist megachurch, was among the pastors enthusiastically welcoming of the prayer feature. “Facebook and other social media platforms continue to be tremendous tools to spread the Gospel of Christ and connect believers with one another — especially during this pandemic,” he said. “While any tool can be misused, I support any effort like this that encourages people to turn to the one true God in our time of need.” Adeel Zeb, a Muslim chaplain at The Claremont Colleges in California, also was upbeat. “As long as these companies initiate proper precautions and protocols to ensure the safety of religiously marginalized communities, people of faith should jump on board supporting this vital initiative,” he said.

500 E. Laburnum Avenue, Richmond, VA 23222 www.sharonbaptistchurchrichmond.org (804) 643-3825 Rev. Dr. Paul A. Coles, Pastor

Sundays Morning Worship 10:00 A.M.

August 12-14, 2021 B3

Back Inside

Broad Rock Baptist Church 5106 Walmsley Blvd., Richmond, VA 23224 804-276-2740 • 804-276-6535 (fax) www.BRBCONLINE.org

“Due to the Corona Virus Pandemic, Services Are Cancelled, until further notice; but, please join us, by visiting BRBCOnline.org or YouTube (Broad Rock Baptist Church).”

“MAKE IT HAPPEN” Pastor Kevin Cook

Triumphant

Baptist Church 2003 Lamb Avenue Richmond, VA 23222 Dr. Arthur M. Jones, Sr., Pastor (804) 321-7622

Under its data policy, Facebook uses the information it gathers in a variety of ways, including to personalize advertisements. But the company says advertisers are not able to use a person’s prayer posts to target ads. The Rev. Bob Stec, pastor of St. Ambrose Catholic Parish in Brunswick, Ohio, said via email that, on one hand, he sees the new feature as a positive affirmation of people’s need for an “authentic community” of prayer, support and worship. But “even while this is a ‘good thing,’ it is not necessary the deeply authentic community that we need,” he said. “We need to join our voices and hands in prayer. We need to stand shoulder to shoulder with each other and walk through great moments and challenges together.” Rev. Stec also worried about privacy concerns surrounding the sharing of deeply personal traumas. “Is it wise to post everything about everyone for the whole world to see?” he said.

“On a good day we would all be reflective and make wise choices. When we are under stress or distress or in a difficult moment, it’s almost too easy to reach out on Facebook to everyone.” Rabbi Rick Jacobs, president of the Union of Reform Judaism, said he understood why some people would view the initiative skeptically. “But in the moment we’re in, I don’t know many people who don’t have a big part of their prayer life online,” he said. “We’ve all been using the chat function for something like this — sharing who we are praying for.” Crossroads Community Church, a nondenominational congregation in Vancouver, Wash., saw the function go live about 10 weeks ago in its Facebook Group, which has roughly 2,500 members. About 20 to 30 prayer requests are posted each day, eliciting 30 to 40 responses apiece, according to the Rev. Gabe Moreno, executive pastor of ministries. Each time someone responds, the initial poster gets a notification. Deniece Flippen, a moderator for the group, turns off the alerts for her posts, knowing that when she checks back she will be greeted with a flood of support. Ms. Flippen said that unlike with in-person group prayer, she doesn’t feel the Holy Spirit or the physical manifestations she calls the “holy goosebumps.” But the virtual experience is fulfilling nonetheless. “It’s comforting to see that they’re always there for me and we’re always there for each other,” she said. Members are asked on Fridays to share which requests got answered, and some get shoutouts in the Sunday morning livestreamed services. Rev. Moreno said he knows Facebook is not acting out of purely selfless motivation — it wants more user engagement with the platform. But his church’s approach to it is theologically based, and they are trying to follow Jesus’ example. “We should go where the people are,” Rev. Moreno said. “The people are on Facebook. So we’re going to go there.”

Good Shepherd Baptist Church

“Due to the Corona Virus all services at Triumphant Baptist Church are suspended until further notice.”

1127 North 28th St., Richmond, VA 23223 s Office: (804) 644-1402 Dr. Sylvester T. Smith, Pastor “There’s A Place for You”

Join us on Sundays at 12 noon via Conference Call: 1(503)300-6860 Code:273149#

Worship With Us This Week!

g 151 years of Christian Se ratin rvic b e l e Ce

Due to the COVID-19 Corona Virus All regular activities have been suspended until further notice. Visit https://youtu.be/qqzhnIEQyQc for inspirational messages from Pastor Smith

Ebenezer Baptist Church 1858

±4HE 0EOPLE´S #HURCH²

216 W. Leigh St. • Richmond, Va. 23220 Tel: 804-643-3366 • Fax: 804-643-3367 Email: ebcofﬁce1@yahoo.com • web: www.richmondebenezer.com

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. (Jeremiah 29:11, NRSV)

2901 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 648-2472 ~ www.mmbcrva.org Dr. Price London Davis, Senior Pastor

Thirty-first Street Baptist Church

e with Reverence elevanc R g in Rev. Dr. Joshua Mitchell, Senior Pastor bin ❖ om

Please visit our website Ebenezer Baptist Church Richmond, VA for updates http://www.richmondebenezer.com Dr. Wallace J. Cook, Pastor Emeritus Rev. Dr. Adam L. Bond, Pastor

Antioch Baptist Church

Weekly Worship: Sundays @ 10:30 A.M. Church School: Sundays 9:00 A.M. “Redeeming God’s@People for Gods Purpose” Bible Study: Wednesdays @ Noon & 1384 New Market Road, 6:30 P.M.Richmond, Virginia 23231 | 804-222-8835

SERVICES

SUNDAY WORSHIP HOUR – 10:00 A.M. The doors of the church CHILDREN’S CHURCH & BUS MINISTRY AVAILABLE are open for worship! SUNDAY SCHOOL (FOR ALL AGES) – 9:00 A.M. No registration required. Join us in person or online on TUESDAY Facebook or YouTube Weekly Worship: Sundays @ 10:30 A.M. MID-DAY@B9:00 IBLE A.M. STUDY – 12 NOON Church School: Sundays 10:30 a.m. Sundays Bible Study: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 P.M. WEDNESDAY MID-WEEK PRAYER & BIBLE STUDY – 7:00 P.M.

ing for a welcoming place o worship this week?

top by & see what God is up to at MMBC.

A MISSION BASED CHURCH FAMILY EXCITING MINISTRIES FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH, “I refuse to accept the view that Amankind is so tragically YOUNG DULTS & SENIOR ADULTS bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the BIBLE REVELATION TEACHING bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never DIVERSE MUSIC MINISTRY become a reality…. I believe that unarmed truth and L OVING , C ARING E NVIRONMENT 823 North 31st Street unconditional love will have the final word.”

Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 226-0150 Office

—Martin Luther King, Jr.

DR. JAMES L. SAILES PASTOR

“Working For You In This Difficult Hour”

k Joseph Jenkins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. 2011-2049 Grayland Avenue Richmond, Virginia 23220 (804) 358-9177

Joseph Jenkins, Jr., Founder (Dec. 19, 1938 - Dec. 9, 2006) Joseph Jenkins, III. • Jason K. Jenkins • Maxine T. Jenkins

Richmond Free Press

B4 August 12-14, 2021

Legal Notices/Employment Opportunities City of Richmond, Virginia CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Council of the City of Richmond has scheduled a public hearing, open to all interested citizens, on Monday, September 13, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber on the Second Floor of City Hall, located at 900 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia, to consider the following ordinances: Ordinance No. 2021-201 To install an appropriate number of speed tables to be determined by the Department of Public Wo r k s i n S e m i n a r y Avenue between North Lombardy Street and West Brookland Park Boulevard. (COMMITTEE: Land Use, Housing and Transportation, Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 12:00 p.m.) Ordinance No. 2021-211 To p r o v i d e f o r t h e granting by the City of Richmond to the person, firm or corporation to be ascertained in the manner prescribed by law of a non-exclusive easement over, under, through, upon, and across certain portions of the property located at 6120 Warwick Road for the laying, construction, operation, and maintenance of one or more lines of underground conduits and cables and all equipment, accessories, and appurtenances necessary in connection therewith to provide electrical service to the City’s E911 communications tower in accordance with a certain Right of Way Agreement. (COMMITTEE: Land Use, Housing and Transportation, Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 12:00 p.m.) Ordinance No. 2021-212 To designate the 100 and 200 blocks of Carnation Street in honor of the late Maybell Fountain. (COMMITTEE: Land Use, Housing and Transportation, Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 12:00 p.m.) Interested citizens who wish to speak will be given an opportunity to do so by following the instructions referenced in the September 13, 2021 Richmond City Council Formal meeting agenda. Copies of the full text of all ordinances are available by visiting the City Clerk’s page on the City’s Website at https:// www.rva.gov/office-cityclerk, and in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 900 East Broad Street, Suite 200, Richmond, VA 23219, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Candice D. Reid City Clerk

Divorce VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER JEANNE MOORE, Plaintiff v. TERRY MOORE, Defendant. Case No.: CL20004805-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, who has been served with the Complaint by posted service appear here on or before the 21st day of September, 2021 at 9:00 AM, and protect his interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure, Plaintiff’s Counsel VSB# 27724 The Law Office of Dorothy M. Eure, P.C. 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

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Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER BONNIE BUTLER, Plaintiff v. CLIFFORD BUTLER, III, Defendant. Case No.: CL21002471-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 17th day of September, 2021 at 9:00 AM and protect his interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Law Office of Dorothy M. Eure, P.C. Dorothy M. Eure, Plaintiff’s Attorney VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HENRICO ODELIZA DEL CARMEN GUZMAN RODRIGUEZ V. JOHN CAQUIAS GARCIA PLAINTIFF DEFENDANT CL21-4173 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of the above-styled suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the Defendant on the grounds that the parties have lived separate and apart, without any cohabitation and without any interruption, for a period of more than one year, It appearing by affidavit filed according to law that the Defendant, JOHN CAQUIAS GARCIA, cannot be located within the State of Virginia and that his last known address is unknown, it is therefore ORDERED that Defendant, JOHN CAQUIAS GARCIA appear before this Court on or before the 13th day of September, 2021, and do what is necessary to protect his interests in this suit. Entered: July 12, 2021 An Extract Teste Heidi S. Barshinger, Clerk VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE CITY OF RICHMOND ROSA H. MARROQUIN LUNA, Plaintiff v. MARIO DAVILA PAZ Defendant, CL21-2949 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of the abovestyled suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the Defendant on the grounds that the parties have lived separate and apart, without any cohabitation and without any interruption, for a period of more than one year, It appearing by affidavit filed according to law that the Defendant, MARIO DAVILA PAZ, is not a resident of the State of Virginia and that his last known address is unknown, it is therefore ORDERED that Defendant, MARIO DAVILA PAZ, appear before this Court on or before the 6th day of October, 2021, and do what is necessary to protect his interests in this suit. A Copy Teste: EDWARD F. JEWETT, Clerk I ask for this: Mary P. Adams, Esq. VSB No. 24551 Hairfield Morton. PLC 2800 Buford Road, Suite 201 Richmond, Virginia 23235 (804) 320-6600 - telephone (804) 320-8040 - facsimile madams@hmalaw.com Counsel for the Plaintiff

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER BERNARD STRONG, JR, Plaintiff v. SUSAN STRONG, Defendant. Case No.: CL20002491-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 17th day of September, 2021 at 9:00 AM and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure, Esquire Law Office of Dorothy M. Eure, P.C. VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING LYNETTE EILEEN STREATER-HENDERSON, Plaintiff v. JEFFERY HENDERSON, Defendant. Civil Law No.: CL21-2608 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of the abovestyled suit is to obtain a divorce from the bonds of matrimony from the defendant on the grounds that the parties haved lived separate and apart without interruption and without cohabitation for a period of more than one year, since April 22, 2019. And it appearing by Affidavit filed according to law that Jeffery Henderson, the above-named defendant, is not a resident of this state and that due diligence has been used by or in behalf of plaintiff to ascertain in what county or city the defendant is, without effect. It is therefore ORDERED that the said Jeffery Henderson, do appear in the Clerk’s Office of the Law Division of the Circuit Court of City of Richmond, John Marshall Courts Building, 400 North 9th Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, on or before 8/30/2021 and do whatever necessary to protect their interests in this suit. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk

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VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER NATHANIEL LEWIS, Plaintiff v. DEBORAH LEWIS, Defendant. Case No.: CL21002401-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 10th day of September, 2021 at 9:00 AM and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Law Office of Dorothy M. Eure, P.C. Dorothy M. Eure, Plaintiff’s Attorney VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER MICHAEL PROKOPUK, Plaintiff v. CATHERINE PROKOPUK, Defendant. Case No.: CL21001516-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, who has been served with the Complaint by posted service appear here on or before the 10th day of September, 2021 at 9:00 AM, and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure, Plaintiff’s Counsel VSB# 27724 The Law Office of Dorothy M. Eure, P.C. 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

PROPERTY Notice Judicial Sale of Real Estate Notice is hereby given that at least thirty days from the date of this notice the City of Richmond will commence judicial proceedings under the authority of Virginia Code Section 58.1-3965 et seq. to sell the following real estate for payment of delinquent taxes: 2 1/2 N 18th Street E0000108022 1424 N 19th Street E0000771016 5 1/2 W 20th Street S0000295029 1719 N 21st Street E0000938022 1609 N 23rd Street E0000860005 1420 N 25th Street E0000710001 1325 N 30th Street E0000625032 1400 N 30th Street E0000717017 1315 N 31st Street E0000720021 244 Arcadia Street C0050986022 1515 Chamberlayne Pkwy N0000361020 2401 Clearfield Street C0080615042 3359 Dill Avenue N0051182036 402 Dobson Street W0000328032 1322 Drewry Street S0071134031 2200 Fairmount Avenue E0000616018 2327 Grove Avenue W0001039001 1610 Grove Ave U7 W0000664061 106 N Harrison Street W0000453015 2208 Harwood Street S0071179003 3612 Hawthorne Avenue N0001630004 1919 Hull Street S0000295026 616 Idlewood Avenue W0000169026 618 Idlewood Avenue W0000169027 1834 Keswick Avenue S0071032001 2118 Keswick Avenue S0071081006 1618 Kingswood Street C0060469044 1317 Minefee Street S0071134051 3409 Monument Avenue W0001622005 4305 New Kent Avenue S0002485008 22 W Roanoke Street S0002915019 4024 Sharon Court S0002923025 1320 Stockton Street S0000147021 3601 Stockton Street S0002761014 2313 Venable Street E0000427007 2432 Venable Street E0000471028 2434 Venable Street E0000471027 2436 Venable Street E0000471026 2438 Venable Street E0000471020 2308 Warwick Avenue S0071679006 The owners may redeem this real estate before the date of a sale by paying all accumulated taxes, penalties, Continued on next column

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interest and costs. Gregory A. Lukanuski, Deputy City Attorney Office of the City Attorney for the City of Richmond 900 East Broad Street, Room 400 Richmond, Virginia (804) 646-7949 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. HYBERNIA HOCKER WOOD, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-2985 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 450 East Ladies Mile Road, Tax Map Number N000-1664/014, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Hybernia Hocker Wood. An Affidavit having been filed that HYBERNIA HOCKER WOOD, upon information and belief deceased, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that HYBERNIA HOCKER WOOD, upon information and belief deceased, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. WILLIAM A. JOYNER, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-3052 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 1610 North 35th Street, Tax Map Number E000-1542/022, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owners of record, William A. Joyner and Dorothy B. Joyner. An Affidavit having been filed that said owners, WILLIAM A. JOYNER, upon information and belief deceased, or his heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest, and DOROTHY B. JOYNER, upon information and belief deceased, or her heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that WILLIAM A. JOYNER, upon information and belief deceased, or his heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest, DOROTHY B. JOYNER, upon information and belief deceased, or her heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949

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a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that CURTIS MOORE, Registered Agent for C & T GROUP, LLC, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949

of Trust filed in the records of the Richmond Circuit Court at Instrument Number 12-11118 on June 8, 2012, who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to her last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that SPECIALTY SUPPORTIVE HOUSING CORP, an entity listed as inactive in the records of the Virginia State Corporation Commission, NANCY ANN ROGERS, Registered Agent for 39 FOREVER, LLC, Beneficiary of a Deed of Trust filed in the records of the Richmond Circuit Court at Instrument Number 12-11118 on June 8, 2012, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. ROBERT L. ACUFF, III, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-2100 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 2312 East Marshall Street, Tax Map Number E000-0296/017, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owners of record, Robert L. Acuff, III and Nathaniel J. Acuff. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, ROBERT L. ACUFF, III, who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to his last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; that said owner, NATHANIEL J. ACUFF, who is not a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that THOMAS P. BAKER, upon information and belief deceased, TRUSTEE of a Deed of Trust filed in the records of the Richmond Circuit Court at Deed Book 114 page 1379 on March 2, 1987, or his successor/s in title, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that ROBERT L. ACUFF, III, NATHANIEL J. ACUFF, THOMAS P. BAKER, upon information and belief deceased, TRUSTEE of a Deed of Trust filed in the records of the Richmond Circuit Court at Deed Book 114 page 1379 on March 2, 1987, or his successor/s in title, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949

IT IS ORDERED that VERNON CROCKETT, JR, upon information and belief deceased, or his heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest, DOROTHY B. CROCKETT, upon information and belief deceased, or her heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. LOTTIE F. WADE, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-1012 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 3112 Garland Avenue, Tax Map Number N000-1038/007, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Lottie F. Wade. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, LOTTIE F. WADE, who is not a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia, has not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that LOTTIE F. WADE, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. TERRY K. COUSINS, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-2621 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 3408 Hazelhurst Avenue, Tax Map Number N000-1351/008, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Terry K. Cousins. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, TERRY K. COUSINS, who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to her last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that TERRY K. COUSINS, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. C & T GROUP, LLC, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-2620 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 2122 Royall Avenue, Tax Map Number S007-1582/001, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, C & T Group, LLC. An Affidavit having been filed that CURTIS MOORE, Registered Agent for C & T GROUP, LLC, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. SPECIALTY SUPPORTIVE HOUSING CORP, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-2662 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 4711 Castlewood Road, Tax Map Number S009-0459/024, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Specialty Supportive Housing Corp. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, SPECIALTY SUPPORTIVE HOUSING CORP, an entity listed as inactive in the records of the Virginia State Corporation Commission, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that NANCY ANN ROGERS, Registered Agent for 39 FOREVER, LLC, Beneficiary of a Deed

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VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. SHERYL TAYLOR SIMMONS, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-2363 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 2119 Broad Rock Boulevard, Tax Map Number C009-0420/014, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owners of record, Sheryl Taylor Simmons and Allison J. Taylor. An Affidavit having been filed that said owners, SHERYL TAYLOR SIMMONS and ALLISON J. TAYLOR, who have been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to their last known address, have not been personally located and have not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED t h a t S H E RY L TAY L O R SIMMONS, ALLISON J. TAY L O R , a n d P a r t i e s Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. ASSET PROPERTIES, LLC, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-3054 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 2304 4th Avenue, Tax Map Number N000-0610/007, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Asset Properties, LLC. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, ASSET PROPERTIES, LLC, an entity listed as inactive in the records of the Virginia State Corporation Commission, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that ASSET PROPERTIES, LLC, an entity listed as inactive in the records of the Virginia State Corporation Commission, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949 Continued on next column

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. VERNON CROCKETT, JR, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-2628 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 3928 Stockton Street, Tax Map Number C006-0159/038, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owners of record, Vernon Crockett, Jr. and Dorothy B. Crockett. An Affidavit having been filed that said owners, VERNON CROCKETT, JR, upon information and belief deceased, or his heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest, and DOROTHY B. CROCKETT, upon information and belief deceased, or her heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” Continued on next column

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. DEVON L. MORRISON, et al, Defendants. Case No.: CL21-2618 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 4416 Pusey Lane, Tax Map Number C008-0831/022, Richmond, Virginia, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Devon L. Morrison. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, DEVON L. MORRISON, who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to his last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that DEVON L. MORRISON, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7949

LICENSE CDJ of Chester VA LLC Trading as: Crab Du Jour 2301 W Hundred Rd Chester, VA 23831 The above establishment is applying to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Wine & Beer, Mixed Beverage On Premises license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www. abc.virginia.gov or 800-5523200. Timberly LLC Trading as: Timberly LLC 7225 Hull St Rd Ste D North Chesterfield, VA 23235-5803 The above establishment is applying to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Wine & Beer On Premises license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Hoang Duong, Owner NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www. abc.virginia.gov or 800-5523200.

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