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VOL. 24 NO. 1

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• 2014 Year in Pictures

DECEMBER 31, 2014-JAnuary 3, 2015

Celebrating with angels Testing HIV positive was not her end, but a new beginning to give hope to others By Joey Matthews

Five months after Theresa Delores Cosby learned she had tested positive for HIV, she tried to end her life. She locked herself in a bathroom, climbed into a bathtub of running water and swallowed a handful of Motrin chased by beer. That was in May 1998. Ms. Cosby said she lived only because God sent her “an angel” in the nick of time. Her 7-year-old daughter, TayQuana, walked into the bathroom and thwarted her suicide attempt. “I would have been gone in a few more minutes if she hadn’t come in,” Ms. Cosby told the Free Press. “It was only by the grace of God that I’m still here. I remember thinking God must have sent her in to save me and that he must have a plan for my life. “It was the beginning of a new beginning for me,” she added, breaking into a mile-wide smile and wiping away tears of joy. Nearly 17 years later, and now fueled with a renewed hope and purpose, Ms. Cosby commits herself every day to serving as “an angel” to others with HIV/AIDS. And there are many others in need. Currently, more than 2,500 individuals are living with HIV/AIDS in Richmond, according to George Jones, a spokesman for the Richmond City Health District. The majority of those are African-Americans, he added. Ms. Cosby, a 50-year-old East End resident, accompanies patients to support group meetings at VCU Medical Center’s Infectious Disease Clinic and the Fan Free Clinic, two places she said God sent her “more angels” in the form of doctors, nurses, counselors, volunteers and support group members to help her through “my toughest times.” She serves as a volunteer at both clinics. She also rides with anxious new patients to their doctors’ appointments and helps them keep track of the medicines they need to take. When they’re short on cash for medicines, she sometimes helps pay for them. “Theresa has been a tremendous support to other people in the community who are diagnosed and have tested positive,” said Patty Whanger, who has been Ms. Cosby’s case manager for 13 years at the MCV clinic. “She’s genuine and wants to help, no matter the circumstances someone faces.” Ms. Whanger said it’s important to have someone in your corner when you’re

Theresa Delores Cosby, who volunteers at the VCU Medical Center, is celebrating her 17th year of living with HIV. She now dedicates herself to helping others at clinics that have helped her.

Please turn to A4

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Candidates ready for special elections Stories by Jeremy M. Lazarus

Mr. Jones

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Christmas racers Cousins Amari Allen, front, and Khalib Johnson, both 3, happily race their Christmas toys around the neighborhood Saturday. Location: The 700 block of Oak Park Avenue in Washington Park on North Side.

Mr. Preston

Mr. Morrissey

Mr. Sullivan

Voters to decide Tuesday on 63rd House seat

Legislative Black Caucus backs Sullivan for 74th seat

Will it be attorney Joseph E. Preston or businessman William H. “Mouse” Jones Jr.? Next week, voters in the 63rd House District will decide which of the two will represent them in the General Assembly. The special election is Tuesday, Jan. 6, for the district that includes Petersburg and parts of Hopewell and Chesterfield, Dinwiddie and Prince George counties. The election is being held to replace Rosalyn R. Dance, who is now a state senator. She won a special election in November to replace Henry L. Marsh III in the 16th Senate District. The winner in this House election would need to run again in November 2015 to gain a full two-year term. Mr. Jones, 59, is running as an independent against Mr. Preston, 58, who is favored since he secured the Democratic nomination. No Republicans are in the race. A Petersburg native, Mr. Jones believes his name recognition

The Virginia Legislative Black Caucus is backing Democratic candidate Kevin J. Sullivan in his bid to oust embattled Delegate Joseph D. “Joe” Morrissey from the legislature. In a statement Tuesday, Hampton Sen. Mamie E. Locke, chair of the 17-member caucus, announced the group’s position in the Jan. 13 special election that has been called in the majority-black 74th House District that Delegate Morrissey has represented since 2008. In her statement, Sen. Locke blasted Delegate Morrissey, who was sentenced Dec. 12 to a three-month jail term for contributing to the delinquency of a minor. “Mr. Morrissey’s reprehensible conduct and subsequent misdemeanor conviction involving an underage African-American girl disqualifies him from serving in the General Assembly,” Sen. Locke stated on behalf of the caucus. “We strongly endorse Kevin Sullivan, … whom we know will

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VCU researchers: Viagra cocktail may cure cancer By Jeremy M. Lazarus

The drugs that can wake up a man’s sex life and help with arthritis hold real promise for creating treatments for cancer, Ebola, hepatitis, influenza and a host of other scourges, including brain-eating amoeba. Thanks to Viagra and drugs like it, as well as a drug derived from the painkiller Celebrex, mankind’s battle against disease could take a big leap forward. This is no joke, according to Dr. Paul Dent, a research scientist at Virginia Commonwealth University, who is at the center of the breakthrough. In papers published with other scientists during the past two years, Dr. Dent and his colleagues have developed a new, universal approach to attacking the cancers, viruses and bacteria that plague human beings.

A drug cocktail that includes chemicals that make up Viagra and Cialis and an offshoot of Celebrex can disrupt or halt the ability of cancer and other disease cells to reproduce, according to the research. Essentially, Dr. Dent said, the drug cocktail prevents cancer cells and other diseasecausing organisms from forming protein into new diseased cells. “The protein becomes a useless blob,” he said in an interview. Dr. Dent By targeting certain proteins called “chaperones,” which are essential to cell development, “we can hurt cancer cells, we can inhibit the ability of viruses to infect and reproduce and we can kill superbug, antibiotic-resistant bacteria,” he explained. At the same time, he said, the drug cocktail, at least in mice, “does not harm normal tissues like the liver and the heart.”

Even Dr. Dent is pretty amazed at the results. And he is frustrated that the research is not generating more excitement and funding to move it from the lab to clinical trials. The idea that Viagra has potential as a disease treatment is not new. Numerous researchers in the United States and abroad have published papers on findings related to cancer. Dr. Dent’s pioneering work already has led him and Dr. Rakesh C. Kukreja at VCU to publish research that shows Viagra drug combinations are beneficial in the treatment of breast cancer. In the past two years, Dr. Dent’s group has developed data showing Viagra improved conventional chemotherapy in the treatment of bladder, pancreatic and pediatric cancers, findings that will be used in a clinical trial at VCU in 2015. Dr. Dent said the new findings on disease treatment take the Please turn to A4

Richmond Free Press

December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

Local News

New Year’s schedule In observance of New Year’s, please note the following: City and county public schools: Winter Break continues. Schools reopen Monday, Jan. 5.

Henrico County libraries close 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, and are closed Thursday, Jan. 1.

Government: Richmond city, Chesterfield County and federal offices: Closed Thursday Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2.

Banks, credit unions and other financial institutions: Closed Thursday, Jan. 1.

State offices: Close at noon Wednesday, Dec. 31. Reopen Monday, Jan. 5.

Trash and recycling: No pick-ups Thursday, Jan. 1; all are pushed back one day.

Henrico County offices: Closed Thursday, Jan. 1. State and federal courts: Close at noon Wednesday, Dec. 31; closed Thursday Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2. Libraries: Richmond libraries close 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31. Closed Thursday, Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2. Broad Rock branch, which has Sunday hours, will be closed Sunday, Jan. 4 Chesterfield County libraries close 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, and are closed Thursday, Jan. 1 through Saturday, Jan. 3.

U.S. Postal Service: No delivery Thursday, Jan. 1.

Department of Motor Vehicles customer service centers: Closed Thursday, Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2. Virginia ABC stores: Some stores have extended hours Wednesday, Dec. 31, so check specific locations. Closed Thursday, Jan. 1.

Cityscape

Malls, major retailers, movie theaters: Varies; inquire at specific locations. GRTC: Buses operate on a Sunday/holiday schedule Thursday, Jan. 1.

More than 164,800 Virginians have enrolled in health care coverage that starts Jan. 1 through the Health Insurance Marketplace, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Of those enrollees, 83 percent were deemed eligible for financial assistance to lower their monthly premiums, compared to 74 percent over a similar period in 2013. Open enrollment for health care under the federal Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, continues through Feb. 15. Open enrollment allows consumers to sign up for health care for the first time or to change or renew their current coverage. The latest enrollment period began Nov. 15, with consumers enrolling by Dec. 15 having coverage take effect Jan. 1. Virginians who enroll by Jan. 15 will be covered beginning Feb. 1. Coverage for those who enroll between Jan. 16 and Feb. 15 begins March 1. Expanding health care coverage to the uninsured, and making it affordable for others, has been a hallmark of President Obama’s administration. Nationwide, more than 4 million people signed up for health coverage in the most recent month of enrollment, according to federal officials. “Interest in the Marketplace has been strong during the first month of enrollment,” said HHS Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell. In Virginia, 54 percent of the 164,884 people who selected a plan from the marketplace by Dec. 15 were enrolling for the first time, while 46 percent re-enrolled in health plans. Anyone lacking health coverage in 2015 may have to pay a penalty. To enroll in health care coverage, visit www.healthcare.gov or call (800) 318-2596.

Craig Miller takes advantage of the sunny, weekend weather by ﬁshing in Fountain Lake at Byrd Park in Richmond’s West End. On Saturday and Sunday, it felt like spring had returned, with daytime temperatures soaring into the mid-60s. Winter’s chill is returning, however. Through New Year’s Day, the forecast calls for highs in the 40s and lows in the mid-20s.

Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

Z18

Free Press offices: Closed Wednesday, Dec. 31, and Thursday, Jan. 1.

Enrollment continues until Feb. 15 through Obamacare

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

December 31, 2014 – January 06, 2015

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Downtown detours start Jan. 5 for bridge work Warning to motorists: Two bridges that span Leigh Street beside the Richmond Coliseum are about to be replaced. The result: Months of trafﬁc disruption for commuters and others who use North 7th and North 5th streets near the city’s big arena. The $3.6 million project will be done in two phases, according to Thomas Westbrook of the city Department of Public Works. First up: The bridge on 7th Street — a favorite artery for commuters seeking on-ramps for interstates 64 and 95. That work will last from January to mid-May. Then, it will be 5th Street’s turn — the main entry from I-64 into Downtown. The bridge work will go on from mid-May to mid-August. Warning signs already have been placed to prepare motorists for the changes. The changes will go into effect Monday, Jan. 5, when the 7th Street phase of the work is scheduled to begin, Mr. Westbrook stated. From then until mid-May, 7th Street will be blocked off between Clay and Jackson streets, he stated, except for those using the Coliseum Parking Garage. Most trafﬁc heading north on 7th Street will be detoured east on Clay Street. Drivers then will be able to use 8th or 9th streets to go north to get around the bridge work, Mr. Westbrook stated. To help, 8th Street temporarily will become two-way between Clay and Jackson streets, enabling drivers to use either Jackson or Duval streets to return to 7th for access to the interstates, to travel into North Side or the East End or to park in the lots for J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College. Access to the Coliseum Parking Garage is being kept open because the garage has a side street exit to 8th Street. After the 7th Street bridge is completed, southbound 5th Street will be closed between Jackson and Clay streets. Then, 3rd Street will become the detour street to get around the bridge work. For questions or other details, contact Mr. Westbrook at thomas. westbrook@richmondgov.com or (804) 646-3421.

Correction Charles McLeod, a Matoaca High School graduate and transfer student from Virginia State University, was one of the first AfricanAmericans to play basketball for the Virginia Commonwealth University Rams. He and Donald Gordon, from Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk, debuted for VCU in the 1966-67 season. A sports article published in the Dec. 24-27 edition of the Free Press contained an incorrect first name for Dr. McLeod. The Free Press regrets the error.

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Richmond Free Press

December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

From our home to yours... Happy holidays The holidays are a time to reflect upon the people who have touched our lives throughout the year. To all our friends and family near and far, we hope you have a joyous season and a prosperous New Year.

Richmond Free Press

A4 December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

News

Gov. eases burdens on ex-felons seeking voting rights By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Gov. Terry McAuliffe continues to make history in restoring voting rights to released prisoners. Just before Christmas, Gov. McAuliffe announced he had restored the rights of 5,100 people, the most for any governor in his first year in office. It also is the largest number of people to have their rights restored in a single year. More than two-thirds of them are now registered to vote. Gov. McAuliffe also announced reforms aimed at speeding up the restoration of rights process for people who served time for violent crimes. The changes will bring the process closer in line to the almost automatic process for nonviolent offenders to get their rights back. Among other things, his administration is reducing the amount of paperwork former violent offenders must file — reducing the application from 13 pages to one. Former prisoners also no longer will have to get their application notarized or provide letters of reference. “I have always believed that people who have served their time and paid their debts to society should have the opportunity to be contributing

members of society again,” Gov. McAuliffe said in announcing the changes at a Dec. 18 press conference at First Baptist Church of South Richmond. “By providing Virginia’s former offenders with a second chance, we can reduce recidivism, increase participation in our Gov. McAuliffe democratic processes and build a new Virginia economy,” he said as he personally restored the voting and civil rights of three ex-offenders. With their rights restored, former offenders can vote, serve on juries and run for public office. At the current pace, more than 25,000 people will have their rights restored before Gov. McAuliffe leaves office in January 2018. However, he already is signaling that he could go further. Currently, felons who get their rights restored must have paid all court-imposed fines and debts. Behind the scenes, administration officials are looking at ways to ease or eliminate that debt burden — the biggest barrier to quickly restoring a person’s rights.

Levar Stony, the governor’s secretary of the commonwealth, is proud of the expansion in restoring voting rights. “Virginia has traditionally been one of the most restrictive states in restoring ex-offenders’ civil and voting rights,” he noted. Mr. Stony said the paperwork reforms “build upon the progress our administration made earlier this year in streamlining the restoration of rights process.” Gov. McAuliffe began stepping up the process in May when he moved all drug-related offenses into the nonviolent category and reduced the waiting period for more serious offenders from five to three years. Virginia is one of a handful of states that ban felons from regaining voting and civil rights without the approval of the governor. Until this century, governors rarely restored rights of felons. That began changing dramatically under former Gov. and now Sen. Mark R. Warner, who restored the rights of more than 3,000 people. His successor as governor, Tim Kaine, continued to ease conditions and to increase restoration of rights. Former Gov. Bob McDonnell went even further on behalf of nonviolent felons — making rights restoration almost automatic for nonvio-

lent felons who had paid their court fines and restitution. Before he left office in January, he restored the rights of more than 8,000 people in four years, including more than 3,200 people in 2013, his final year in office. Gov. McAuliffe is receiving bipartisan praise for going beyond Gov. McDonnell’s efforts. Republican Delegate Peter Farrell of Henrico, for example, said Gov. McAuliffe is right to ensure restoration of rights “remains a strong focus of the administration. This is important work for our commonwealth. We want people to rejoin society and participate in a positive manner and this step can help in that process.” The chairwoman of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, Sen. Mamie E. Locke, D-Hampton, also is delighted that Gov. McAuliffe is keeping his pledge to push this issue. For years, the caucus has unsuccessfully supported a constitutional amendment that would make restoration of rights almost automatic for people who complete their prison terms. “I commend Gov. McAuliffe for his hard work, dedication and leadership on this issue,” Sen. Locke said. “Once you’ve paid your debt to society, you should be able to vote and participate in the civic process.”

Viagra cocktail Candidates ready for elections may cure cancer Voters to decide Tuesday on 63rd House seat Continued from A1

in that city as a civic activist, concert promoter and former club manager will help him overcome Mr. Preston’s advantage as the Democratic Party’s nominee in a predominantly Democratic district. This week, Mr. Jones also began questioning whether Mr. Preston lives in the district. Mr. Preston changed his voter registration Nov. 17 and is now listed on the voter rolls at 1551A Berkeley Ave. in Petersburg, a duplex he owns. He previously was registered as living outside the district at 10465 Jordan Parkway, a large home in the Jordan on the James subdivision in Prince George County. According to Mr. Jones, Mr. Preston is not receiving his mail at the Berkeley Avenue address and still spends nights at his Prince George residence. “I am totally in compliance,” Mr. Preston responded. “I moved back into Petersburg in order to run. For him to raise this issue shows that Mr. Jones is not qualified to serve in the House of Delegates. I have made no secret that I own several properties, including the one on Jordan Parkway. But I now live at the Berkeley address.” Candidates for the General Assembly must live in and be registered to vote in the district in which they are running. Voter registrars are empowered to hold a hearing on the matter if three registered voters file a complaint about a candidate’s or officeholder’s residency. The commonwealth’s attorney also is empowered to investigate the question. In his campaign, Mr. Jones is emphasizing the need to grow jobs and development in the district to fight unemployment and poverty.

He said he would push for ways to boost tourism and increase regional cooperation to attract more businesses to the area. Meanwhile, Mr. Preston, 58, is emphasizing his record of serving the community as an attorney and through his volunteer work on the boards of the YMCA, Legal Aid, the Petersburg Public Library Foundation and Richard Bland College. If elected, the Omaha, Neb., native said he would advocate for more African-American judges in area courts, for a training center to assist youths in developing needed job skills and for tax incentives to attract more businesses to the area. Election 63rd House District Date: Tuesday, Jan. 6. Polls open: 6 a.m. Polls close: 7 p.m. At stake: A seat in the Virginia House of Delegates, representing Petersburg and parts of Hopewell and Chesterfield, Dinwiddie and Prince George counties. Who can vote: Registered voters in all seven Petersburg wards and those living in precincts 301 and 303 in Chesterfield County; precincts 101, 102, 103, 201, 202, 302, 303, 401, 402, 501 and 502 in Dinwiddie County; precincts 201, 601 and 701 in Hopewell; and precincts 104, 204 and 205 in Prince George County. To check your precinct: State Board of Elections website, www.sbe.Virginia.gov, or call your local voter registrar’s office. Where to vote: At your precinct. ID requirement to vote: Voters must show a valid photo ID such as a driver’s license, a student ID or a federal, state or local government ID.

Legislative Black Caucus backs Sullivan for 74th seat Continued from A1

stand up for our Democratic values, stand by our president and behave in the dignified, honorable way that we expect of our leaders.” The VLBC previously called on Delegate Morrissey to resign from the House of Delegates and not stand for election, accusing him of abusing his authority and asserting that his continued service in the House represented a stain on the General Assembly. Delegate Morrissey, who has been entangled in controversy

through much of his career, has been on the hot seat for months after he was indicted for having an illegal sexual relationship with a underage receptionist who briefly worked for him in 2013. On Dec. 12, he entered an Alford plea to the misdemeanor, which allowed him to maintain his innocence while acknowledging the prosecution had enough evidence to convict him. A week later, he announced he would resign his seat effective Jan. 13, but also would run for re-election. He is running as an independent after the Democratic Party blocked him from seeking the party’s nomination.

City shelters open through Friday The city’s emergency overflow shelter for homeless people will be open through Friday, Jan. 2, according to a city spokesperson. Eligible persons are allowed to enter the shelter at 7 p.m. The shelter is open

when temperatures are forecast to be at 40 degrees or below that night. Concurrently, the day warming shelter also will be open Thursday, Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2, from 6:30 a.m. until noon, according to city spokesperson Michael Wallace.

The overflow and day warming shelters are in the Public Safety Building, 501 N. 9th St. in Downtown. Persons seeking shelter must first register at Commonwealth Catholic Charities, 511 W. Grace St.

Continued from A1

research to the next level. In his view, the real value of the VCU-led research has been the discovery of how the drug cocktail works. The story begins in 2005 when Dr. Dent, a biochemist and molecular biologist, began trying to figure out why a new drug killed cancer cells. Researcher Ching-Shih Chen developed the drug — dubbed OSU-03012 — at Ohio State University. The drug is a more potent offshoot of the main ingredient in Celebrex. Initial excitement over the OSU drug’s potential faded as the explanation for how it worked proved wrong, and funding dried up for clinical trials, even for the company that licensed it, Arno Therapeutics Inc. “It was supposed to inhibit a particular enzyme,” Dr. Dent said, “but that idea was knocked down.” However, “I kept beavering away,” he said. He started seeing results when his VCU lab combined the chemicals from Celebrex and Viagra and “found that enhanced the killing power” when used against brain cancer cells. Then he found that OSU “was 10 times better in killing cancer cells than Celebrex.” Most importantly, he said, was the finding that an OSUViagra/Cialis combination prevented viruses from gaining entry to healthy cells and suppressed protein “chaperones” involved in virus and bacteria reproduction. “Chaperones snuggle up to enzymes,” he said, and are responsible for helping to shape chains of amino acids into new, properly shaped cells. One of the most important chaperones is called GRP78. “If there is no GRP78, the enzyme is clueless on how to proceed,” Dr. Dent said. According to Dr. Dent’s paper published this month in the Journal of Cellular Physiology, the drug cocktail worked on a wide array of unrelated disease cells, including cancer, mumps, measles, E.coli, Ebola, hepatitis, Adenovirus, Coxsackie virus, MRSA and drug-resistant gonorrhea. Dr. Dent, through VCU, has applied for a patent on the drug cocktail. If the patent is approved, the native of England said that any proceeds he might receive would be donated to support the work of London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children. Dr. Dent said that one of the very first successful tests of the cocktail was conducted on brain-eating amoeba, which VCU scientist Francine Marciano-Cabral has been studying for more than 30 years. Dr. Marciano-Cabral is seeking a grant for clinical trials. When it came to antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea and other superbugs, Dr. Dent said that “at low doses, OSU re-sensitized the superbug to antibiotics, and, at higher doses, it killed the sucker.” He worked with Dr. Cynthia Cornelissen, a VCU researcher who has been seeking to develop vaccines for gonorrhea. Now his hope is that other scientists and major funders, including the government and drug companies, will take advantage of the groundbreaking research.

Testing HIV positive was not her end, but a new beginning Continued from A1

newly diagnosed with the virus that causes AIDS. “People are frightened when they get diagnosed, and they need someone to reassure them that they can live with this and do well. She is paying back to others what was given to her.” According to the Virginia Department of Health, 72 percent of the 6,152 people with HIV in the region that includes the Metro Richmond and Petersburg areas are African-American. Ms. Cosby said she tries to “pay it forward” by giving her phone number to other HIV/AIDS patients. “I tell them to call me anytime if they need someone to talk to,” she said. Ms. Cosby also loves to cook — Southern style — and serve meals at her residence in the Fairfield Court public housing community on holidays for new friends she calls “positive people.” She plans to invite guests to her home Sunday, Jan. 4, for one of her delectable meals. Among her culinary specialties: Barbecued chicken, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, greens and corn bread. “I’ll be celebrating that I’m here and celebrating a new year with my family

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Theresa Delores Cosby hugs the first “angel” God sent her way, her daughter TayQuana, who prevented her suicide in 1998.

and friends,” Ms. Cosby said. At such gatherings, Ms. Cosby freely shares “my story to give them hope,” she said. She tells others of the obstacles she faced upon first learning she was HIV positive just days before Christmas in 1997. She also talks about the overwhelming feelings of abandonment she felt from some family members and friends. Initially, she had to take 25 pills in the morning and 25 more every

evening to treat the disease. That was in addition to medications she took for diabetes and high blood pressure. “I was a walking pharmacy,” she said. “Today, I take only three pills a day for HIV. Like the old Virginia Slims commercial says, ‘I’ve come a long way, baby.’ ” Ms. Cosby said after narrowly escaping suicide, she began researching HIV and going to support groups to

help her cope with it. “I met some awesome people who gave so much of their time to help me,” Ms. Cosby said. “They were all there for me and I’ll be eternally grateful to them all.” She said she and other women at the VCU Medical Center’s Sister’s Keeper support group discussed their ups and downs, the medicines they took, their children and their families and planned social activities. “We did a lot of talking, crying and laughing … and we did lots of hugging. Through the hugs, they made you feel like you were someone special. To have somebody to give you a hug, that’s awesome.” She began attending support groups and taking classes at the Fan Free Clinic ranging from karate for stimulation and relaxation to nutrition and yoga. “I met a lot of positive people, right many who are no longer here,” Ms. Cosby said. From those experiences and over a period of time, she said, “I learned how to first like myself, then how to love myself. “That was a hard thing, but it slowly happened.” Today, Ms. Cosby declares, “I’m still here, and I’m doing wonderful.

“My T-cells are great and my viral load is not detectable, meaning the virus is not messing with me, and that is a wonderful thing.” She boldly states, “I don’t have a disease, I have a situation. And the only person that can correct that situation is my heavenly father. God is good all the time because I’m still standing.” Armed with a new lease on life, Ms. Cosby spends much of her spare time caring for her two grandchildren — 2-year-old Tay-Ziah, the daughter of TayQuana, now 24, and 6-monthold Jae-Ceon, the son of her other daughter, Devin, 21. She said she plans to write a book about her experiences to inspire others and to let them know there is hope. At a recent open mic event at the Fan Free Clinic, she summed up her journey from despair to hope: “In the beginning, I was a lonely bud. And from all the things I’ve gone through, now, I’m a lovely, tall rose. “I grew a lot. As long as I water the flower and feed it, it continues to grow tall and beautiful.” For details about HIV care services, the Richmond City Health District recommends contacting Pamela Price at pamela.price@vdh.virginia.gov or Suzanne Roberts, (804) 205-3751.

Richmond Free Press

December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

Local News

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

The old Oak Grove and Summer Hill elementary schools on South Side.

City eyeing reopening old school buildings By Jeremy M. Lazarus

The city’s public school system is running out of class space for its youngest students. At least seven elementary schools have more students than they were built for, including the two newest, figures for Richmond Public Schools show. That’s why the School Board could be asked to reopen at least two previously shuttered school buildings, according to Assistant Superintendent Thomas E. Kranz, who oversees facilities. Those buildings: The old Oak Grove and Summer Hill elementary schools, both on South Side. Mr. Kranz told the Free Press that Richmond Public Schools is experiencing overcrowding in pre-kindergarten through third grade, particularly on South Side, where the Latino population is rapidly increasing. Enrollment figures show why. According to reported fall figures from RPS, total enrollment in preschool and elementary grades is up 7 percent in just five school years. This year, RPS reported 13,755 children were enrolled in prekindergarten through fifth grade, about 900 more children than were reported in fall 2010. That growth contrasts with enrollment at

the secondary level — middle school and high school — which is down 3.7 percent from 2010. This year, RPS reported 10,202 middle and high school students, or about 400 fewer than the 10,600 reported enrolled in 2010. When it comes to space, Mr. Kranz said the most acute need is in preschool, which includes Head Start and the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI), a state-funded version of Head Start. Both programs aim to ensure kids from low-income families are ready for kindergarten. This fall, Richmond reported enrolling a total of 1,713 students in both preschool programs. Mr. Kranz said Richmond has had to return money to the state for failing to provide enough VPI classes and might have to do so again if more space is not found. He said the money to be returned could amount to $1.2 million. The school system reported enrolling 882 students in VPI classes this fall. Mr. Kranz said that RPS needs classrooms for up to 300 more children. He said RPS would be able to provide 183 more spaces once new preschool space opens at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in the coming weeks. “But that still leaves us short,” he said. That’s why he is now looking at the old Oak

Grove Elementary building — a structure left at 2200 Ingram Ave. when the new Oak Grove/ Bellemeade Elementary School opened. He said that old building would need some renovation, but would provide needed space for preschool classes for at least 100 children, and possibly more. Another option would involve renting space in private preschool programs that meet certain standards. Richmond has to be prepared to expand pre-kindergarten further now that the state has received a federal grant of $17.4 million to expand programs. The grant could be repeated for four years. RPS has been notified it could receive $2 million a year to cut the number of students per VPI class from 18 to 16 and to increase the number of students in the VPI program by 240 children. Mr. Kranz indicated he also could propose the reopening of the Summer Hill building at 2717 Alexander Ave., which closed when the new Broad Rock and Oak Grove/Bellemeade Elementary schools opened in January 2013. Summer Hill might be needed to ease overcrowding in kindergarten through third grades in the new elementary schools, as well as at

E.S.H. Greene, he indicated. Broad Rock has far more students than anticipated as a result of a spurt in the numbers of Latino students enrolling. The school reported enrolling 827 students in the fall, or 177 more than the 650 students it was built to serve. Oak Grove reported enrolling 692 students, or 42 above its functional capacity of 650, while Greene reported an enrollment of 533 students, or 139 more than its functional capacity of 394. Three other South Side elementary schools, J.L. Francis, Miles Jones and G.H. Reid, are nearly at 100 percent capacity. Dr. Derik E. Jones, 8th District School Board member, has advised his colleagues that something needs to be done following a recent visit to Broad Rock Elementary School. Among other things, he wants his colleagues to consider “creating designated overflow schools for schools that are over capacity.” He also stated that the board must address “the population boom on South Side,” adding that a new elementary school is on “my wish list.” Because he sees little chance of gaining a new building any time soon, he stated that he would encourage his colleagues to look at reopening the old Oak Grove and Summer Hill buildings to provide more space.

Attorney Robert J. Grey Jr. to receive national award By Christian Finkbeiner

A Richmond attorney’s efforts promoting diversity have earned him a prestigious award from the American Bar Association. Robert J. Grey Jr., a partner at Hunton & Williams, is one of four recipients of the 2015 Spirit of Excellence Award. “I was definitely pleasantly surprised,” Mr. Grey told the Free Press of his reaction to the honor. “This is a recognition by my peers of the work I’ve been doing in the field, so it’s especially gratifying.” Mr. Grey, 64, received the award largely because of his work with the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity. He has served as the organization’s executive director since 2010, but he also represents it as a lawyer and lobbyist. The LCLD consists of more than 200 top corporate officers and managing partners from law firms around the country who work toward increasing diversity in the legal profession.

“These are leaders in the field,” Mr. Grey said. “So that requires me to perform at a high level. They’re able to get things done.” The award will be presented during a ceremony at the ABA’s midyear meeting in Houston Mr. Grey in February. The other honorees are Kim J. Askew, a partner with K&L Gates LLP in Dallas, Judge Jacqueline H. Nguyen of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in California, and Kevin K. Washburn, assistant secretary for Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior. In announcing the honorees, F. John Garza, chair of the ABA’s Commission on Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession, said, “Diversity is the most valuable asset among us as inclusion of different ideas and perspectives unites and

strengthens us. “The Commission is privileged to present the award to these honorees who have expanded opportunities for so many while distinguishing themselves as legal professionals who bring unique and innovative solutions for their clients, communities and the profession.” Mr. Grey, who served as the ABA’s president from 2004 to 2005, said he spends about 40 percent of his time on the road representing the LCLD and other clients. His practice focuses on regulatory, administrative and government relations matters. He also is vice chairman of Hunton & Williams’ Community Service Committee, seeking opportunities for the law firm to do pro bono work. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and the Washington & Lee University School of Law, Mr. Grey is a member of Washington & Lee’s board of trustees and received VCU’s Alumni Star Award in 1995.

Kemba Smith Pradia appointed to state sentencing commission By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Kemba Smith Pradia has come a long way from the federal prison where she once served time for conspiracy to traffic crack cocaine, money laundering and making false statement to federal agents. Now a prison reform advocate, Ms. Pradia just became a member of the Virginia Criminal Sentencing Commission. Gov. Terry McAuliffe named the Virginia Beach resident to the 17-member body. It develops, implements and administers the sentencing guidelines that state circuit court judges use in deciding prison terms for people convicted of felonies. The commission also conducts research on topics ranging from offender risk assessment to the re-arrest and violation of probation by released offenders. It also performs analyses of the cost of proposed criminal justice legislation.

Ms. Pradia is the “poster woman” for unfair sentences. She is the former Hampton University student who got involved with a drug dealer and was sentenced to 24½ years in federal prison for her links to her boyfriend, Ms. Pradia who federal authorities described as a drug kingpin. The Richmond area native received national attention because of the shocking sentence for a first-time and non-violent offender. She ultimately was released in 2000 after President Clinton granted her clemency, ending her prison term, following a six-year effort by her parents, the NAACP and other groups. Since then, Ms. Pradia has continued

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Stepping out, stepping down Judge Richard D. Taylor Jr. shares a family moment at a celebration of his retirement from the Richmond Circuit Court. With him, from left, are three relatives, Theresa Hayes, Barbara Fleming and Sharon Fleming. Below, Dr. Arvat McClain and Harry Watkins hosted the Dec. 19 retirement party for Judge Taylor at their residence in Downtown. Judge Taylor officially retires Dec. 31 after more than 20 years on the bench. He was named to the Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court in 1993 and became a Circuit Court judge in 2002. His successor, W. Reilly Marchant, was selected in November by the General Assembly. Judge Marchant’s eight-year term on the bench begins New Year’s Day.

to crusade for fair sentencing as the head of her own foundation that also seeks to raise awareness on social issues ranging from domestic violence to drug abuse, AIDS and teen pregnancy. Ms. Pradia is among advocates who helped usher in changes in federal sentencing guidelines and pushed the passage of the Fair Sentencing Act in 2010 that makes sentences for crack cocaine users similar to the shorter terms for those convicted with powder cocaine. The law also eliminated mandatory minimum sentencing for crack cocaine offenders. She is continuing the work, speaking more than 100 times a year at venues across the country and overseas according to her father, Gus Smith. Ms. Pradia addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council on issues involving U.S. sentencing and the loss of voting rights in March.

Community groups bolster spirits, hope at jail By Joey Matthews

Community members stepped up to make the holiday season brighter for the nearly 1,200 inmates at the Richmond Justice Center. Multiple organizations and churches provided donations of items and money so jail staff could deliver care packages to all of the male and female inmates, according to a news release from Richmond Sheriff C.T. Woody Jr. Chief among those giving: Club 533 in Jackson Ward. Members of the board of the men’s club adopted the Justice Center inmates this Christmas and donated thousands of dollars worth

of toiletries. Club President Larry Everette and other members delivered the items to Sheriff Woody two days before Christmas. Under the direction of jail chaplain Col. Alonzo Pruitt, Richmond-area churches Temple of Judah, New Hanover Presbyterian and Concord Fellowship Baptist Church also donated care packages, cookies and soap, underwear, lotion and toothpaste. The Richmond Public Defender’s Office adopted the REAL program, which stands for Recovery from Everyday Addictive Lifestyles, and donated several hundred dollars, as well as toiletries, paper, reading glasses, books and undergarments.

The Homeward organization that oversees services for homeless people in Richmond donated 300 indigent hygiene packs for program participants as well. Additionally, more than 200 inmates were treated to a Christmas program Dec. 23. Several ex-offenders shared their personal stories of incarceration and redemption. Comic Micah “Bam Bamm” White merrily emceed the holiday show. “The tremendous outpouring of support has been heartwarming, and it is greatly appreciated,” Sheriff Woody concluded. “The showing of love from the community builds esteem and provides hope for a better future.”

Richmond Free Press

City skyline from Shockoe Slip

Editorial Page

December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

wish

New Year’s

May your eyes and ears be open in 2015 and your heart and spirit lead you to action. Best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

From the

Richmond Free Press

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Creating a global blueprint for the future As we begin 2015, millions of people throughout the world will make their annual New Year’s resolutions. But for 42.7 million black Americans, 2015 hopefully will be a year of socioeconomic, political, cultural and spiritual progress. But achieving these goals will require more than just making a seasonal resolution. I believe that black America’s national leadership should immediately convene a summit to devise a “global” action agenda for the next year that will address the economic and political interests of African descendants around the world. The call for a national or international summit devoted to the sons and daughters of Africa is not a new idea. In fact, there have been numerous efforts to present action agendas for black people in America, Africa, Asia, Europe, and in the Caribbean. So what will be different this time? First, the “world order” has changed and will continue to change, as we already have seen in the case of the Soviet

Union and, more recently, Cuba. Consequently, people in Asia and in Africa will continue to exhibit a larger percentage of the world population and this major demographic shift

Benjamin F. Chavis will afford an unprecedented opportunity for new global strategic alliances. Secondly, global economies that are now growing rapidly in Asia and Africa will provide a tremendous stage for the exchange of stronger business and trade relationships between Africans and other people of color throughout the world. In particular, 2015 can be and should become a time for Black American entrepreneurs and business leaders to secure stronger sustainable economic relationships. Thirdly, the results of President Obama’s U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit last summer have been encouraging thus far. More than $33 billion has been committed to economic development in Africa through the African Union. President Obama said at the time, “Even as the continent faces significant challenges, I

believe a new Africa is emerging. With some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, a growing middle class, and the youngest and fastest-growing population on Earth, Africa will help shape the world as never before.” To help assure this happens, national Black leaders from a broad spectrum of organizations, including the Congressional Black Caucus, should gather to plan, develop and present a global agenda for equal justice, economic empowerment, youth leadership and mentorship, and spiritual revitalization. Naturally, the recurring crisis and devastating impact of racially motivated police violence has to be addressed in this setting. But the issue of police brutality and use of deadly police force should be viewed within the larger context of inequity and injustice. For starters, here is my short list of priority concerns that should be addressed at the summit: • Reaffirming and encouraging the emergence of young, committed, gifted and talented youth leaders; • Rededicating support for historically black colleges and universities;

• Strengthening Black-owned businesses with an emphasis on global economic development; • Establishing strategic alliances with the African Union; Organizing Black American trade delegations to China, Africa, the Caribbean, Brazil and Indonesia; • Participating in the planning for the execution of the 2020 U.S. Census; • Supporting and investing in expansion of black-owned media; • Prioritizing legislative and public policy issues; • Focusing on how we spend $1.3 trillion annually; • Advancing the cause of freedom, justice and equality and inspiring a moral and spiritual transformation of American society. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. is the president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association.

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Prayers for the new year After all the shopping and preparation for celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa, I hope we will stop and sit and think more deeply about their meaning in our over-commercialized, trivialized, mass-selling mania for and to children and deeply stressful time for so many. The poor baby in a manger is lost, along with the poor babies crying out all over America for food, shelter, safety and education in the jingle of cash registers. The Christian belief that God entered history as a poor child is drowned out in the jungle of commerce and advertising. Something is deeply awry in our nation with the world’s biggest economy that lets its children be the poorest group. And the younger they are, the poorer they are during their years of greatest brain development. The Prince of Peace is mocked as we let a child be injured or killed by guns every 30 minutes. The growing boy Jesus who pondered and studied his Heavenly Father’s word would worry about the millions of children around America and the

world growing up without an education — unable to read and compute — sentenced to social and economic death in a competitive and globalizing economy. In America, children are growing up to a mass incarceration system that will

Marian Wright Edelman turn back the clock of racial progress unless dismantled. Who are we and who do we want to be as Americans? What do we value? What values do we want to stand for and transmit to our children in our warring polarized world where the violence of poverty and guns snuffs out the lives and dims the eyes and spirits of children and adults? I share here a few prayers for us to ponder as we enjoy our turkey and roast beef and prepare for a new year that I hope is joyful and fulfilling for all, including those left behind. God, please stop injustice, the killing of innocent children by violence and poverty at home and abroad. God, please stop injustice, so our children may live and love and laugh and play again. O God, forgive and transform our rich nation where small children suffer from hun-

ger and toddlers and  schoolchildren die from guns sold quite legally. O God, forgive and transform our rich nation that lets the rich continue to get more at the expense of the poor quite legally. O God, forgive and transform our rich nation that thinks security rests in missiles and bombs rather than in mothers and babies. O God, forgive and transform our rich nation for not giving You sufficient thanks by giving to others their daily bread. O God, help us never to confuse what is quite legal with what is just and right in Your sight. God, is America’s dream big enough for me? For the little black boy born the wrong color in the wrong place to the wrong parents in some folks’ sight? God, is America’s justice fair enough for me? For the little brown or white girl labeled from birth as second best? God, is America’s economy open to us? For the many children who have to stay poor on the bottom so too few can stay rich on top? God, does America, the land of plenty, have enough for me? God, is America’s dream large enough for me?

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Richmond Free Press

December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

Letters to the Editor

We don’t have permanent friends, just permanent interests Re “Joe fights back,” Dec. 24-27 edition: African-Americans in the 74th House District and across the commonwealth and the nation may just need to re-examine their relationship with the Democratic Party. The party’s most loyal, dedicated voting constituents are and have been African-Americans. Oftentimes, it appears that our loyalty is taken for granted. Recently, in the 74th House District, a majority African-American district that contains parts of Richmond and Henrico and Charles City counties, African-American voters in particular were treated disparately by the party they overwhelmingly support. In an effort to get rid of Delegate Joseph D.

Morrissey, the party decided that the nominating committee would hold an unassembled caucus (firehouse primary) to nominate the party’s candidate for the special election on Tuesday, Jan. 13. The party estimated that about 100 registered local committee members would be allowed to vote. The district has more than 80,000 people. African-Americans must re-evaluate our relationship with any entity that openly disenfranchises us. We must assume the position that we don’t have permanent friends. We have permanent interests. What are we receiving for our loyalty and votes? Are our platforms pushed and advocated for on the local, state and national levels? Or

are we taken for granted and disrespected with drive-by visits at churches from politicians at election time? When the money is spent for campaigns, where does it go? Who addresses our issues unashamedly and unapologetically? In the commonwealth of Virginia, one who I have witnessed advocating and proposing legislation in that regard is Delegate Morrissey. Not once, not twice, but time after time

after time. As we prepare for the 2016 state and national elections, let’s not allow ourselves to be treated as stepchildren. Let’s reward our friends and punish our enemies! Black lives matter! Black voters matter, too! KING SALIM KHALFANI Richmond

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Councilman Chris A. Hilbert’s

2015 Richmond Northside 3rd Voter District Meetings 6:00-8:00 p.m.

DR. CARROLL W. ROBB Henrico Interested in strengthening our Local Workforce System for Businesses and Job Seekers? Attend the Title 1 Adult/Dislocated Worker Information Session hosted by the Capital Region Workforce Partnership’s On Thursday, January 8, 2015, the Capital Region Workforce Partnership is hosting an information session about the new provisions in the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title 1 Adult/Dislocated Worker Fund-ing Stream. This session serves as an opportunity to educate workforce preparation organizations about the changes to our funding streams, priorities and expectations and the potential innovations, alignments and collabo-rations that can change service delivery for citizens residing in the Capital Region. This event is free and open to all interested parties. If you would like to at-tend, register before January 6, 2015 at http://wiawioa-adultdw.eventbrite.com. Location: Henrico Training Center 7701 East Parham Road Henrico, VA 23294. Time: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm. Questions can be directed to: resourceva@henrico. us. This event is primarily funded through the Capital Region Workforce Partnership, Resource and the U.S. Department of Labor through the federal Workforce Investment Act (WIA). The CRWP/Resource are equal opportunity programs/employers (EOE). Paid Political Advertisement

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I am absolutely outraged over the recent nominating process used in the 74th House District. As a resident of eastern Henrico County for more than four decades, I can state with utter certitude that I have never seen such shameful behavior by certain Democratic leaders and the Democratic Party. In an effort to deny Delegate Joseph D. Morrissey a position on the Democratic ballot, party leaders such as state Sen. Donald McEachin, for whom I previously voted, and others created a nominating process that denied thousands of African-Americans the ability to nominate the candidate of their choice. Specifically, in order to participate in the process, one had to have prepaid a fee — a poll tax — and been a member of the local Democratic Party. Sen. McEachin knows better than anybody that denying citizens — particularly African-Americans — the inalienable right to cast their vote of choice is simply wrong. It is abundantly clear to me and most of my neighbors that the process used was done deliberately. Unfortunately, the nominating process used by the Democratic Party has tainted the party’s brand and reduced our heretofore noble position on voting rights to mere rhetoric. What a shame. As for me, I intend to exercise my right to vote on Jan. 13 and vote for the person of my choice.

The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert

CONTACT

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804.646.6055 (tel)

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Stories by Fred Jeter

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You can toss the statistics “Nate is very versatile and sheet out the window. has come into his own,” White Numbers alone don’t begin says. “He can defend taller playto reveal the full contributions ers and he stretches defenses of Nathan Williams Jr. to the with the ability to knock down John Marshall High School jumpers. basketball team. “He’s a nice, laid-back kid There are numerous areas with a lot of talent.” where Williams sparkles. Williams isn’t concerned He strives to be a squad about his own lack of point leader in “intangibles” — setand/or rebound totals, or all-star ting screens, scrapping for accolades. loose balls, intimidating with All-State junior Jeremy a condor-like wingspan and Carter-Sheppard, the “Babyjust keeping wheels turning faced Bomber,” leads in scoring smoothly with his know-how. (16 per game) while 6-foot-6 Don’t let his modest fourjunior Greg Jones is the team’s point, four-rebound averagtop rebounder (11 per game). es give the wrong impression. “I’d rather score two points The 6-foot-8, 190-pound and win than 22 points and lose,” senior forward is a third-year Williams said. “My job is to starter, the tallest on the team be an all-around player … be and already has two Division disruptive defensively … be a I scholarship offers — from leader with my experience.” Hampton University and CampWilliams’ father, Nathan Sr., bell University. played basketball and football in What’s more, he’s an inspirKing George County and made ing comeback story, having the football team at Norfolk rebounded from double knee State University. surgery to start for a squad with His older sister, Kiara Wilback-to-back state titles in its liams, is a former basketball crosshairs. starter at Varina High School. John Marshall High won the Actually, soccer was Nate state 3A crown a year ago and Jr.’s first athletic love. is off to a 6-1 mark this season, He was a long-stemmed, rec with wins over defending 6A league goalie before drifting champ Colonial Forge and 5A indoors to the gym. Williams kingpin I.C. Norcom. spent his freshman season at The school on Richmond’s Franklin Military Academy, North Side hopes to become which has no sports teams, James Haskins/Richmond Free Press the latest area school to win before transferring to John Nathan Williams Jr., the 6-foot-8, 190-pound senior forward who led John Marshall High School to a state championship consecutive state public school last season, has offers from two Division I schools. Marshall as a sophomore. round ball titles. Considering his delayed Previous back-to-back champs were John Marshall (1936 and 5-inch surgical scars on the inside of both knees, resulting from start, there is ample room for continued upward mobility regard1937), Petersburg High (1973 and 1974) and Marshall-Walker what Nathan Jr. calls “growing pains.” ing skill set and even physical growth. High (1982 and 1983). Williams won’t turn 18 until May 17, so it’s reasonable he To correct dislocations, likely stemming from rapid growth, No area team has ever won three straight titles. he was operated on during his eighth grade year by Dr. Geoffrey could sprout another inch or so. The John Marshall Justices launch a post-holidays slate on Sat- B. Higgs of Advanced Orthopedic Center. He figures to fill out physically and continue to gain traction urday, Jan. 3, against Landstown High in Virginia Beach, last year’s “I was bed-bound for six weeks and had to start all over as his knees gain strength and flexibility. State 6A runner-up, at Virginia Wesleyan College in Norfolk. More scholarship offers are possible as the Justices continue their quest athletically,” Williams recalls. “I didn’t play any basketball in Williams has been a mainstay in coach Ty White’s lineup eighth grade, and I was out most of ninth.” for a second straight state title and third straight trip to the state finals. since early in his sophomore season, when he was still hobbling The uplifting news is that the knees, while scarred, are nearly John Marshall lost to Henrico High School in the 2013 finals. a bit from the knee surgery. “When I look back on my high school career,” Williams says, 100 percent now as he competes for the Justices and offseason The son of Nathan Sr. and Monica Williams has matching for White’s Team Loaded 804 travel team. “I want to think I was part of a dynasty.”

Senior Nathan Williams wants to be part of dynasty

Graham surges in rankings with Rams’ latest win Virginia Commonwealth University keeps winning games and Treveon Graham keeps moving past exemplary former Rams on an all-time scoring chart. Delighting the 57th straight sellout crowd Monday night, VCU (10-3, with five straight wins) drubbed visiting Cleveland State University, 72-63. Graham scored a team-high total of 20 points and nine rebounds. He scored eight points in the first three minutes of the game. Graham’s career point accumulation enabled the 6-foot-6 senior from Temple Hills, Md., to slip past No. 11 Nick George

Fundraiser features Justices, Vikings basketball alumni It’s throwback time for city basketball. On Saturday, Jan. 10, former players from John Marshall and Thomas Jefferson high schools will compete in an inaugural Alumni Basketball Classic. Tipoff at Big Ben’s Home Court, 2206 Westwood Ave., will be 1 p.m. Doors will open at 11 a.m., with introductions and a photo shoot at noon. Admission is $10 for adults. Children under 10 will be admitted free. The event is being organized by Friends of John Marshall and TLC Investment Group, with major sponsorship by Shoe City. There will be raffles and giveaways, according to organizer Timothy C. Robinson, John Marshall Class of 1979. The event is a fundraiser to benefit both city schools. “But more importantly, it is an event to raise awareness among alumni of the schools’ needs,” Robinson said. “We’re hoping for a little bit from a lot of people.” Among former All-Metro Justices and Vikings agreeing to play are LaMar Taylor, Willie Jennings, Milton Bell, Warren Peebles and Ronnie Wade from John Marshall and Kendrick Warren, Duan Crockett and Thomas Meredith from Thomas Jefferson. “We’ve had tremendous response from athletes from decades past,” said Robinson. “In fact, we’ve had so many saying they will play that now we’ve had to turn some down.” Coaches will be former Vikings player-now coach Irvin Carter for Thomas Jefferson and Fred Bibby, a longtime coach and physical education teacher at John Marshall.

and No. 10 Monty Knight on the Rams’ alltime scoring list. Also since the season’s start, Graham has passed Joey Rodriguez, Willie Taylor, Michael Brown, Bernard Harris, Tyron McCoy, B.A. Walker and Gerald Henderson in total career points. Graham’s next target is eighth all-time scorer Jesse Dark, 1970-74 — the first-ever Ram to be drafted by the NBA. Treveon Graham The Rams will begin play in the Atlantic 10 conference 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 4, at Fordham University in Bronx, N.Y., and then host conference newcomer Davidson College on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at the Siegel Center. The Fordham game will be televised on CBS-SN; Davidson on MASN. These are scintillating times for Rams hoops. VCU began the week with the stunning No. 2 spot overall in the Ratings Percentage Index (RPI) out of 351 Division I programs. The Rams’ .7056 trailed only Kentucky, with .7287. The Rams started this week ranked No. 1 in strength of schedule on RPI. On the attendance front, VCU’s 57 consecutive sellouts ranks fifth in the nation behind only Duke, Kansas, Michigan State and Gonzaga.

VCU all-time scorers Here are Virginia Commonwealth University’s all-time basketball scorers: Player Years Games Points

Eric Maynor 2005-08 Kendrick Warren 1990-94 Charles Wilkins 1968-71 Bradford Burgess 2008-12 Phil Stinnie 1984-88 Calvin Duncan 1981-85 Domonic Jones 2000-04 Jesse Dark 1970-74 Treveon Graham 2011-active Monty Knight 1978-82 Nick George 2002-06 Gerald Henderson 1974-78

130 106 72 146 119 120 120 88 120 112 120 103

1,953 1,858 1,716 1,684 1,645 1,630 1,616 1,586 1,565 1,549 1,546 1,542

Per Game Average

15.0 17.5 23.8 11.5 13.8 12.7 13.7 18.0 13.0 13.8 12.9 15.0

Note: Len Creech scored 2,019 points in 92 games (21.9 average) for Richmond Professional Institute/VCU combined, 1964-1969. Creech played three seasons under the RPI banner and one season for VCU. Source: VCU Reference Guide

VUU, VSU head back on the court Jan. 3 As CIAA conference basketball begins in earnest, Virginia Union and Virginia State universities both can stake a claim to having the CIAA’s top freshmen. VUU Coach Tony Sheals’ Panthers (4-7 overall, 0-1 CIAA) boast guard Robert Valentine from Richmond’s Armstrong High School. For VSU (7-3 overall, 1-0 CIAA), Coach Lonnie Blow’s freshman front runner is Tyler Peterson from Tallwood High School in Virginia Beach. The 6-foot-1 Valentine, in 21 minutes of floor time a night, averages 10 points and three rebounds per game, while hitting .494 from the field. He is 14-36 (39 percent) on threepointers and 12-17 (71 percent) at the foul line. Wearing jersey No. 0, Valentine’s top

Games Jan. 3: Livingstone College at Virginia Union University, 4 p.m. Barco-Stevens Hall; Fayetteville State University at Virginia State University, 5:30 p.m. Daniel Gymnasium

output was 19 points against Notre Dame College in Ohio. Armstrong High School’s record was 40-10 in Valentine’s junior and senior seasons. Peterson, the 6-foot-2 Conference 9 Player of the Year last season, is averaging 27 minutes of court time as a college newcomer. His production includes eight points, four assists and three rebounds per game, along with a team-high 17 steals. Peterson was named CIAA Rookie of

the Week Dec. 14-20 after scoring 15 points in VSU’s loss to University of Charleston. The Panthers and the Trojans were scheduled to play games Dec. 19 and 20 in a tournament in Albany, Ga. Because the event was canceled, neither team has played since Dec. 16. VUU’s Jan. 3 foe, Livingstone College, is the defending CIAA tournament champ. The Blue Bears, 6-3, are led in scoring by junior Eric Dubose (16.3) and senior Hakeem Jackson (15.8). Fayetteville State University, which is 6-4 and averaging about 88 points per game, brings its ominous center, 7-foottall Gatluak Thiep, to VSU’s Ettrick campus. A junior from London, England, Thiep leads the CIAA with 41 blocked shots.

December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015 B1

Section

Richmond Free Press

Looking for a

Happenings

They’re Playing

Spring Fling?

Personality: Diane R. Coleman

BaskeTBall February 20, 2015 Game Friday 8pm Washington D.C.

Richmond

804.745.9080

Primary volunteer position: District II president, Garden Clubs of Virginia. When elected: 2012. Length of term: Two years. Number of garden clubs in District II: Four located in the metro Richmond area. Occupation: Supervisor, Defense Supply Center Richmond. Date and place of birth: Sept. 15, in Prince George County. Place of residence: Sutherland in Dinwiddie County. Alma mater: Regent University. Family: Husband, John F. Coleman; son, Johnathan D. Coleman, 34; and two grandsons, DaiJon, 13, and Tyler, 5. The Garden Clubs of Virginia was founded: April 22, 1932, in Hampton, by William M. Cooper, Asa Sims and P. J. Chesson. These three men were the organizers of the first recorded all-black garden club in the state of Virginia. They gave their time, interest and energy to setting up a plan for the organization of a state

garden club. Number of districts in Virginia: Three. How your district compares to other Virginia districts: There really is no comparison because we all love flowers and we enjoy one another’s company. We like getting together and just talking about what God created and what we can do to make things better for our children, to help each other and to bring in new members. Why I wanted to serve as District II president: Serving as the president was not my idea. The other members thought I would be a good president. I just pray that I have lived up to their expectations. I like being in the background, helping out wherever I can, and not out front. But after being in this position for a few years, I learned that it is not about me but what each of us brings together as a whole. It is so good working with a lot of beautiful women who have a lot of knowledge that can always help you. What I like to grow: Daylilies, tulips, daisies, black-eyed Susans and roses. Flower shows are: Held annually at our state convention, but sometimes clubs from our district get together and have a smaller show. Advice to people of all ages considering gardening: If you do not love flowers or getting your hands or clothes dirty, don’t do it, because you will need to get on your knees and pull a lot of grass and make sure all the weeds are gone. Hobbies: Planting flowers, reading and sewing. Prized possession: My family. Nobody knows I’m: Shy.

How I unwind: I meditate. Best late-night snack: Butter pecan ice cream. Quality I most admire in another person: Honesty. A perfect day: A beautiful sunny day when everything is done and I can just sit back and enjoy watching it all. Greatest source of inspiration: Watching others enjoy their lives. When I get restless, I: Read. If I’ve learned one thing in life, it is: That life is short and unpredictable, and you have to believe in what you are doing. Next goal: Retirement.

(John Wall)

Versus

Spotlight on district president of Garden Clubs of Virginia Gardening is a tradition in Diane R. Coleman’s family. “My great-grandmother always had gladioli in her garden when I was growing up, and I loved them so much,” Mrs. Coleman says. “I thought they were the most beautiful flowers in the world.” Today, Mrs. Coleman keeps her love for flowers alive as District II president of the Garden Clubs of Virginia, a position she has held for two years. The statewide organization aids in the protection and conservation of the state’s natural resources and encourages civic beauty and roadside beautification. Mrs. Coleman also is president of the Rose Garden Club in Chesterfield County, one of four clubs in District II. Community service also is a large part of the clubs’ activities. Some of the clubs have small garden plots at schools and nursing homes that they beautify every year. “They go in and weed, pull the grass and plant seeds for beautiful flowers to grow throughout the year,” Mrs. Coleman says. “There have been times that we have gone to the oldest member of the club or a member that is sick, and we’ve worked in their yard.” The organization also provides “lectures and demonstrations about beautification of your home, church grounds and other places.” Community service also extends beyond the realm of gardening, with clubs donating to food banks and other charitable organizations. “I love being outside and just enjoying planting and seeing something beautiful come out of what you put in the ground,” she says. And the gladiolus still is her favorite flower. Meet this week’s Personality, Diane R. Coleman:

Washington Wizards Cleveland Cavaliers (LeBron James)

USE FREE CODE 3271

30 Tickets Available (limited seats)

for other local numbers call

SOLD OUT GAME Ticket plus bus fare

$139/package Contact: Jackie Baskerville 804-307-9970

Virginia Union University In Partnership With

Dominion Resources Invites You To Attend

The 37th Annual

Community Leaders Breakfast

“A Celebration In Memory of the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”

Friday, January 16, 2015 • 7:30 a.m. Virginia Union University Living and Learning Center 1500 North Lombardy Street, Richmond, Virginia 23220

Keynote Speaker: George Keith Martin, Esquire Richmond Office Managing Partner of McGuire Woods LLP Rector, Board of Visitors, University of Virginia Photos by Paulette Singleton/Richmond Free Press

Celebrating Kwanzaa

Hundreds of people attended the 24th Annual Capital City Kwanzaa Festival last Saturday at the Altria Theater. The event featured an ancestral libation and candlelighting ceremony, lectures, food, music and a marketplace. Top, Ine Saka Wolfe, holding her 3-month-old daughter, Azadeh Wolfe, lights a candle held by Ron Fleming. Below left, dancer Casy Jones with Elegba Folklore Society leaps to the rhythmic African beat of

drummers, and right, a masked stilt walker hugs 9-year-old Jadin Whitaker. The sevenday holiday of Kwanzaa ends Thursday, Jan. 1. The celebration is rooted in African traditions and encourages year-round discipline and adherence to the seven principles of Kwanzaa — unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith — known collectively as Nguzo Saba.

Tickets: $50 each (Advance Purchase Required) Tickets may be purchased at Virginia Union University CD King Hall; Division of Institutional Advancement; Room 208 (Located on the corner of Lombardy and Leigh Street)

For Additional Information Contact: Ms. Lisa Winn (804) 342-3938 Tickets available until sold out.

Richmond Free Press

B2 December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Grieving children console each other at a vigil honoring Marty Cobb, 8, who was killed while defending his 11-year-old sister in May.

Virginia Union University student Romance Simpson joins hundreds outside the John Marshall Courts Building Downtown in November protesting a Missouri grand jury’s decision not to indict the police officer involved in the August slaying of teenager Michael Brown Jr. in Ferguson, Mo.

Richmond Free Press

Year in Pictures 2014

For the last 12 months, the Free Press has documented the news and lives of the Richmond community. We have captured through our lenses the ups and downs of 2014 — cries for justice and health care for all; a teen leading the charge to save her mobile home community; gubernatorial celebrations and scandals; weather highs and lows; Virginia embracing marriage equality; children shaken by the death of a friend; and sports triumphs. Here are some of the highlights in images. Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Dr. Susan A. Miller gives emergency treatment to a woman who collapsed on the Capitol grounds at a March rally urging the General Assembly to approve expansion of Medicaid. Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Gov. Terry McAuliffe gives a thumbs-up as he and his wife, Dorothy, enjoy the celebration at his inauguration in January, with friends Hillary and Bill Clinton behind them.

Paulette Singleton/Richmond Free Press

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell exits the federal courthouse in Richmond after being found guilty of corruption charges in September.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Nicole Pries, left, and Lindsey Oliver kiss after they married in October, becoming the first same-sex couple to wed in Richmond.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

City workers Steve Washington and Clarence Mickins clean off the walkways outside City Hall during a March snowstorm.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

High school student Olivia Leon-Vitervo stands outside her home in Rudd’s Trailer Park, where she helped neighbors facing eviction in July.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

John Morris revels in a cooling outdoor fountain as temperatures spike near 100 degrees in July.

James Haskins/Richmond Free Press

Jubilant John Marshall High School players celebrate after beating crosstown rival George Wythe to win the state 3A basketball championship in March.

Virginia State University receiver Jaivon Smallwood aids the Trojans in a 33-12 victory over Virginia Union University to clinch the CIAA Northern Division title. VSU would go on to become CIAA champs and compete in the NCAA playoffs.

Richmond Free Press

December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

Happenings

Foremost wishes

2015 for

Dr. Pamela V. Hammond Interim president, Virginia State University

s 2014 comes to an end, I must express my gratitude for all of the blessings that were bestowed upon my family and me throughout the year. My wish for Virginia State University for 2015 is that it builds on its 133-year-old tradition of educating outstanding students. Therefore in 2015, I wish our students the greatest success! I desire for you the great joy that comes with an appreciation of the lessons and opportunities that you are receiving. To our seniors who will graduate in 2015, I wish you the greatest success on whatever pathway you choose, be it professional opportunities in the marketplace or continuing your education in institutions of higher learning. May you use your skills and talents to Build a Better World for all. To our ROTC cadets who will earn their commissions this year, I wish you safety wherever your deployments may lead you in service to protect us. To our faculty and staff, I wish you a 2015 in which you continue to serve Virginia State University with the excellence and dedication for which you are known. To our alumni, I wish you a prosperous year and invite each of you — enjoined as the collective voice of your alma mater — to encourage others to support the Trojan Nation in educating and protecting generations globally. To all, I wish you a new year filled with hope — the hope for a world filled with health and happiness and the hope that all are educated for the good of humankind.

With the start of 2015, the Free Press invited several new officials to share their foremost wishes for the new year. Here are their responses. Edward F. Jewett Clerk of Richmond Circuit Court

he holiday season has always been a special time for me and my family. Growing up in Richmond, I have many treasured memories, as I am sure do many of your readers. As we all look forward to the new year, each of us has our own wish for positive change to come. This past year, I had the privilege to get out and meet with many citizens. I was struck by how many of our Richmond city residents are in the community every day working for a better city. My wish for the new year is that the efforts of our leaders and of our everyday citizens to make Richmond a healthy and whole community will come to pass. Many of us are working in our neighborhoods to help with the expansion and restoration of civil rights, to increase cooperation between the police and the citizens they serve, and to take back our neighborhoods from the threat of crime and violence. I know that if we all work together, developing bonds of trust and friendship, we as a city will overcome these problems. And together we will build a safe and vibrant city — a city we are all proud to call “home.” Wishing you all a blessed holiday season.

Dr. Dana T. Bedden Superintendent of Richmond Public Schools

Sen. Rosalyn R. Dance Virginia’s 16th Senate District

rust and positive encouragement for our students, teachers, parents, school leaders and community are important factors in school success and improvement. My wish for 2015 is that we speak more positively about public education, Richmond Public Schools and our children, and commit to doing whatever it takes to provide students a high quality education. Michelle R. Mosby 9th District representative, Richmond City Council and projected 2015 council president

y No. 1 wish for the new year would be for compromise as it relates to city initiatives that lead to coordinated efforts that bring about the absolute best Richmond. We, as elected officials and public servants, have been given a golden opportunity to help facilitate change. Though we sometimes experience many diverse perspectives, our end goal — the best Richmond possible — should be the same. My hope would be for City Council, the mayoral administration, the School Board, the business community and the constituents alike to come together, merging great ideas and resources to tackle some of the city’s greatest problems — from poverty, to public education, to historic barriers relating to social inequity. If each one of us singularly can commit to collective success, even if our specific route to success is not chosen, then 2015 will be a year to behold for all Richmonders!

y wish for 2015 is that we ensure that all our children have the opportunity for a quality, fulfilling education and that we take the first step of ensuring that all public schools in the Commonwealth, and particularly in my Senate District, are fully accredited. The educational success of our children is the critical element needed to improve the quality of life for all Virginians. I know the governor, the state secretary of education, many of my legislative colleagues and the state and local chambers of commerce recognize the importance of providing a top-notch education for our children and, working together, we can succeed. The education of all our children should not be a divisive or polarizing issue. The changes we need, in many ways, have already begun. Steps have been taken to reduce the number of SOLs so teachers are not teaching to the test. No budgetary cuts have been made in kindergarten through grade 12, ensuring the necessary resources exist. And members of schools boards are ever more focused. We are seeing the introduction of year-round schools to ensure our students don’t forget over the long summer break and that they have increased opportunities for remediation, if needed. Mentoring programs, such as Communities in Schools, are on the increase. Children need safe shelter, nourishing food and adults who love them. But, just as importantly, they need the opportunity to succeed. For this to happen, they must have appropriate learning materials, teachers who believe in them, communities and families that support education and programs that foster learning and encourage creativity. My wish for 2015 is that we work together to ensure that every Virginia child has the opportunity to succeed academically in a strong quality educational program that will prepare him or her to be a productive, happy and constructive citizen.

New Year’s Eve party on Brown’s Island for adults only Picture more than 10,000 people partying and bringing in the New Year along the banks of the James River on Brown’s Island. Add a 2014 and a 2015 New Year’s Eve ball, live music, drinks, dancing, laser lights and fire dancers. And throw in lots of hugs, kisses and well wishes. That’s what organizers of the free community New Year’s Eve celebration on Brown’s Island are anticipating. The party, called RVA NYE 2015, is open only to those age 18 and older. The revelry starts 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31,

and ends 12:15 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 1, according to R. Anthony Harris, one of the event organizers. The Brown’s Island location is the latest iteration of the event, which was created by Mr. Harris in Carytown in 2006. That event, which drew thousands of New Year’s Eve partygoers annually, stayed in Carytown until last year, when it was moved to Hardywood Park Craft Brewery on Ownby Lane at Overbrook Road in North Side. RVA New Year’s 2015 is renting Brown’s Island from Venture

Richmond for this year’s event. Local talent will perform on multiple stages, including soulfunk band Soul Power, hip-hop from Trill Bill, DJ Michael Nighttime and many others. VIP tickets, which include seating in a heated tent, are $75 and up. Details: http://rvanye.co. Plans to return to Carytown for a separate ball drop near the Byrd Theater were scuttled Tuesday when organizers did not receive a permit for the event. — JOEY MATTHEWS

Figure skating exhibition and competition in Downtown Interested in watching or learning how to figure skate? The Richmond Figure Skating Club is hosting two events in January to pique the public interest as it gears up to host a major championship competition in 2016. At noon Saturday, Jan. 3, all are welcome at RVA on Ice, 6th and Broad streets Downtown, for an exhibition, meet-and-greet and open house. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about figure skating and join the skaters on the ice for instruction and fun. The event is free and open to the public. The second event will feature 32 synchronized skating teams

competing in the South Atlantic Synchro Open from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11, at the Richmond Coliseum. This non-qualifying competition allows skaters to prepare for the Eastern Synchronized Skating Sectional Championship. The 2015 sectionals are in Lake Placid, N.Y., but the 2016 event will be held in Richmond. According to a news release, the sectionals are expected to bring more than 2,500 skaters from about 165 teams to the Richmond Coliseum and the Greater Richmond Convention Center for four to five days of competition. The top four teams will go on to the nationals.

The Richmond Figure Skating Club, which will host the event, expects more than 10,000 people to attend the sectionals in Richmond. Tickets for the South Atlantic Synchro Open on Jan. 11 are $12 for people ages 13 to 54; $10 for those 55 and older; and $8 for children ages 6 to 12. Admission is free for children 5 and younger. Tickets are available at the Ford Box Office at the Richmond Coliseum. Information: www.richmondfsc.com or www.richmondsynchro. com. — CHRISTIAN FINKBEINER

Richmond Free Press

B4 December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

Obituary/Faith News/Directory

Dorothy B. Lee, 85, retired teacher By Joey Matthews

Dorothy Bess Lee loved children. And she loved mathematics. So it was only fitting that she combined her two passions by becoming a mathematics teacher. “She was probably the most dedicated teacher I’ve ever known,” said her son, Nathaniel. “She was the consummate professional. “She just loved trying to help children. And mathematics was her way of doing so.” Mrs. Lee taught for 30 years, most of that time in Richmond Public Schools. She was widely recognized for her dedication to teaching and was loved by her students. Her son said Arthur Ashe Jr., the late tennis great and human rights advocate, called Mrs. Lee his favorite teacher in a memoir and Ebony magazine interview in talking about his days as a student at Benjamin A. Graves Middle School. Mrs. Lee’s final professional assignment came when she was

one of 12 teachers hired to work at the Northside Middle School Project, the forerunner to Henderson Middle School, in the fall of 1970. The program was housed in the John Marshall High School building and later moved to its current site as Henderson in January 1974. Mrs. Lee is being remembered following her death Dec. 19, 2014, in Richmond. She was 85. Her life was celebrated Monday, Dec. 29, in a funeral at Wesley Memorial United Mrs. Lee Methodist Church. Born in Richmond in 1929, Mrs. Lee graduated from Armstrong High School in 1944. She then earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Virginia Union University in 1948. She continued her studies at the University of Michigan and received a master’s degree from Virginia State University. Mrs. Lee was initiated into the Beta Epsilon Chapter of

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority in 1945 and was a member of the Richmond Alumnae Chapter. She met her future husband, Nathaniel Lee Sr., when she attended a church in Jackson Ward where he was the minister of music. They married in 1951 and raised two sons, Nathaniel and Todd, before Mr. Lee’s death in 1991. “She was just such a loving, caring mother,” Nathaniel recalled. Mrs. Lee began her teaching career in Goochland County, then took a job at Elkhardt Middle School in Richmond. She moved to Graves Middle School in Richmond, then later to Henderson, where she remained until her retirement. Mrs. Lee was an active parishioner at Wesley Memorial Church and was active with the United Methodist Women’s organization and many other committees. She also was active in Jack and Jill of America and the National Tots and Teens family organizations. She is survived by her two sons and a host of other relatives.

Black churches no longer ground zero for civil rights activism By Adelle M. Banks

The Rev. Delman Coates approached his pulpit on a recent Sunday with a straightforward sermon: “Black Lives Matter.” The Facebook page of his Mount Ennon Baptist Church in Clinton, Md., featured photos of a congregation of thousands dressed in black, with their hands held up. The church also announced plans for a “March on Annapolis” on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to push state lawmakers on police brutality, foreclosure and African-American businesses and colleges. Fifty years after Civil Rights Movement activists marched across the South, the black church is finding new ways for activism. But often, its clergy admit, they are not the leaders, and their sanctuaries are no longer ground zero for the Civil Rights Movement. On Dec. 14, the day some churches dubbed “Black Lives Matter” Sunday, many people in the pews found themselves playing catchup with the people who already had been on the streets. Thousands of black churches — prompted initially by leaders of three historically black denominations and later joined by officials of mostly white and Hispanic faith groups — marked the day with black suits and dresses, litanies and prayers to be counted among the throngs of Americans decrying recent grand jury

decisions not to indict white police officers in the killings of unarmed black men. “I hope that we can build the sentiment … to really reclaim this tradition of activism and social justice advocacy, which is really at the heart of the black church,” said Rev. Coates, who spearheaded the first conference of the progressive Black Church Center for Justice and Equality earlier in December. Rev. Coates and others say the black church — which he defines as a movement committed to freedom, not just a group of African-American worshippers — is being challenged by a number of factors, including young people who are not drawn to their pews and pro-gay activists who are pushing for more welcoming attitudes in their sanctuaries. In a statement responding to the “Black Lives Matter” campaign, young adults of the African Methodist Episcopal Church urged its members to “find ways to connect with young adults who are not in our churches” and address their needs. “Let us not become comfortable in places or spaces of privilege as our privilege is only of worth if it serves as a platform to challenge the status quo,” they wrote. African-American churches also struggle with whether to focus on only black concerns or on a broader range of issues. When some said they were going to focus specifically on praying for

black males on that Sunday, women and gay activists called for more inclusivity. “Black LGBT bodies must matter, too!” said a statement from Many Voices, a pro-LGBT church group. “It really makes for some of our congregations to be betwixt and between,” said Alton B. Pollard III, dean of Howard University’s School of Divinity. Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker, director of the AME Church’s Social Justice Commission, said the challenges reflect a generational divide and a wider disconnect that needs to be bridged. “We’ve become aware that the -isms that the young people want to approach are broader than the -isms that the historic black church is focused on,” she said. As the new movie “Selma” depicts the Alabama voting rights marches led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other clergy, today’s ministers acknowledge they now have a different role. “I think what history is going to record is that this is the first movement in black history that’s not been led by the church or by a religious figure,” said the Rev. Jamal-Harrison Bryant, pastor of Baltimore’s Empowerment Temple, whose members marched to a nearby mall after Sunday services for a “die-in” protest. “The church is jumping in to lend its support — not to lead it — which is a different

place from where the black church has been historically.” Even as leaders of the black church grapple with their roles and plan activism around updated legislation and police policies, new LifeWay Research surveys show that black clergy may have to lead the charge themselves. Two-thirds of U.S. adults say religious leaders offer a positive role in the country’s race relations. The vast majority of African-American pastors, 93 percent, said their churches were involved in racial reconciliation, compared with 71 percent of white pastors. After the Sunday demonstrations, leaders of the AME, AME Zion and Christian Methodist Episcopal churches plan to meet to discuss strategy to carve out their place in the latest cries for equal treatment. “To assume we are at the forefront is erroneous,” said Senior Bishop Lawrence Reddick, of the CME Church. “We certainly should participate. And if people call us to leadership, we certainly should take the role of leadership. But leadership, has to be earned by people who look at us and want to follow.” And, he added, for some black clergy, this may take some adjustment: “It may be a change we don’t all want to accept.” Religion News Service

New Years Eve Worship Service December 31, 2014 10:30PM

Meadowbrook High School 4901 Cogbill Road  North Chesterfield, VA

2705 Hartman Street ~ Richmond, VA 23223 www.risingmtzion.org ~ Phone: (804) 643-0715

Spread the Word To advertise your church: Worship Service Gospel Concert Vacation Bible School Homecoming Revival call

804-644-0496 Richmond Free Press The People's Paper.

Riverview

Baptist Church 2604 Idlewood Avenue Richmond, Va. 23220 (804) 353-6135 www.riverviewbaptistch.org Rev. Dr. Stephen L. Hewlett, Pastor Rev. Dr. Ralph Reavis, Sr. Pastor Emeritus

SUNDAY SCHOOL - 9:45 A.M. SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE 11:00 A.M.

Mount Olive Baptist Church Rev. Darryl G. Thompson, Pastor

2014 Theme:

The Year of Increase



New Year’s Eve Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Join us for Jubilant Praise on the Mount 12 Noon Worship Service Guest Soloist Cora Harvey Armstrong 10 PM Watch Night Service Mt. Olive’s own Mass Choir Face 2 Face Mime Ministry and Praise Dancers

You do not want to miss this spirit-filled evening at the Mount. We hope to see you here.



8775 Mount Olive Ave., Glen Allen, Va. 23060 (804) 262-9614 Phone (804) 262-2397 Fax www.mobcva.org

Richmond Free Press

December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

Faith News/Directory

2nd First Baptist worship center in Chesterfield By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Mayor Dwight C. Jones soon will have a new pulpit to preach from — in Chesterfield County. The South Side church where the mayor is senior pastor, First Baptist Church of South Richmond, is building its long-planned worship center on a 23-acre site in the 6200 block of Iron Bridge Road, just a few miles west of the city line. According to Dr. Derik E. Jones, First Baptist’s pastor and the mayor’s son, “Construction has been going on since the beginning of 2014.” “It will be a brick building with a capacity to hold 1,400 worshipers,” Dr. Jones, who also is a member of the Richmond School Board, stated in an email. “It will be completed in late spring of 2015.” At this point, the two-story, steel-frame building is clad mostly in corrugated metal. The interior is far from finished, with a high ceiling space on the inside and a wide-open front. The cost of the second sanctuary is uncertain. Dr. Jones described the new worship center as a “multimillion-dollar facility,” but the only building permit found on record with Chesterfield County puts the construction amount at $494,435. The church’s website shows a rendering of the building, but offers no information about the development or when it might be completed in seeking contributions. There is no mention that construction has begun on the page that requests donations to support the development. But the project is no surprise. First Baptist bought the land for $475,000 in 2004, according to county land records, and has been holding a Sunday morning service since 2005 in schools in Chesterfield while planning for the new sanctuary. Currently, the church uses Meadowbrook High School as its temporary home for the 400 to 500 worshippers First Baptist states meet weekly in Chesterfield. First Baptist, with a theme of “One Church, Two Locations, Two Ministries, One Heartbeat,” is based at 1501 Decatur St. What comes as a surprise is that First Baptist does not appear to be involving any black contractors in its project. As the city’s chief executive, Mayor Jones has made inclusion of black-owned and minority-owned construction companies part and parcel of Richmond’s development of new schools, the new jail and other projects, setting a goal

Moore Street

Union

Missionary

Baptist Church

1813 Everett Street Richmond, Virginia 23224 804-231-5884

1408 W. Leigh Street • 358-6403

Dr. Alonza Lawrence

Rev. Robert C. Davis, Pastor

Pastor

Sundays

Early Morning Worship 8:00 A.M. Church School 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship 11:00 A.M.

Watchnight Service

Sunday, Jan. 18, 2015 at 9:30 A.M.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

This sign stands in front of the construction site of the new worship center of First Baptist Church of South Richmond. Location: 6201 Iron Bridge Road in Chesterfield County. Church officials hope to hold services in the building by June.

of 40 percent participation. But for the Chesterfield project, the church, born in 1821 in what was then the separate community of Manchester, went far outside Virginia to find its contractor. The company doing the work is Joplin Construction Design and Management Inc. of Joplin, Mo., which has built plenty of churches, but is not a minority firm. There also does not appear to be evidence at the site of any

Good Shepherd Baptist Church 1127 North 28th St., Richmond, VA 23223-6624 • Office: (804) 644-1402 Dr. Sylvester T. Smith, Pastor “There’s A Place for You” Tuesday Sunday 10:30 AM Bible Study 9:30 AM Church School 6:30 PM Church-wide Bible Study 11:00 AM Worship Service 6:30 PM Men's Bible Study (Each 2nd and 4th) (Holy Communion Thursday each 2nd Sunday) Wednesday (Following 2nd Sunday) 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting

11:00 AM Mid-day Meditation

black-owned subcontracting firms working on the project. For example, Richard L. Crowder Construction Inc. of Petersburg, a non-minority company, is doing the site work and developing the parking area. The company involved in installing electrical and heating and air conditioning also is a non-minority firm. Dr. Jones did not respond to a query about the participation of black contractors in the church project. Mission Statement: People of God developing Disciples for Jesus Christ through Preaching and Teaching of God’s Holy Word reaching the people of the Church and the Community. “The Church With A Welcome”

Sharon Baptist Church

22 E. Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23219 • 643-3825 thesharonbaptistchurch.com • Rev. Dr. Paul A. Coles, Pastor

Sunday, Janary 4, 2015 NO 8:00 a.m. Service 9:30 a.m. ...... Church School 11:15 a.m. ..Morning Worship Holy Communion

Thursdays Bible Study 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014 10:30PM Rev. Dr. Grace Tolliver Preaching Pastor, Greater Brook Road Baptist Church

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Program Speaker: Dr. Cavell Phillips

Ebenezer Baptist Church 1858

“The People’s Church”

216 W. Leigh St. • Richmond, Va. 23220 • Tel: 804-643-3366 Fax: 804-643-3367 • Email: ebcofﬁce1@comcast.net • web: ebcrichmond.org

FirstM iBaptist Church dlothian

13800 Westfield Dr., Midlothian,VA 23113 804-794-5583 • www.fbcm1846.com

Service Times Sunday

Church School 9:45AM Worship 11:00AM

Tuesday

Bible Study 12 Noon

2300 Cool Lane, Richmond, Virginia 23223 804-795-5784 (Armstrong High School Auditorium)

Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Youth & Adult Bible Study 7:00PM Prayer & Praise 8:15PM

Van Transportation Available, Call 804-794-5583

Come Join Us! Rev. Pernell J. Johnson, Pastor

Reverend Dr. Lester D. Frye Pastor and Founder

Sunday Worship Sunday Church School Service of Holy Communion Service of Baptism Life Application Bible Class Mid-Week Senior Adult Fellowship Wednesday Meditation & Bible Study Homework & Tutoring Scouting Program Thursday Bible Study



Wednesdays Prayer Service 6:00 p.m. Bible Study 6:30p.m.

11:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Every 3rd Sunday 2nd Sunday, 11 a.m. Mon. 6:30 p.m. Tues. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Wed. 7:45 p.m. Wed. 4:30 p.m. Wed. 6:00 p.m. Thurs., 11:45 a.m.

… and Listen to our Radio Broadcast Sundays at 10:15 a.m. on WCLM 1450 AM

To empower people of God spiritually, mentally and emotionally for successful living.

Jesus went throughout Galilee teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness among the people. - Matthew 4:23

Dr. Levy M. Armwood, Pastor  Dr. Wallace J. Cook, Pastor Emeritus

New Deliverance Evangelistic Church

St. Peter Baptist Church

Dr. Kirkland R. Walton, Pastor

1701 Turner Road, North Chesterfield, Virginia 23225 (804) 276-0791 fax (804)276-5272 www.ndec.net

New Year’s Unity Worship Service

Watch Night Service

Sunday, December 28th at 10:00 a.m.

Watch Night Service

Wednesday, December 31st at 10:30 p.m.

Bible Study is now on Winter Break. We will reconvene on January 8th. 2040 Mountain Road • Glen Allen, Virginia 23060 Ofﬁce 804-262-0230 • Fax 804-262-4651 • www.stpeterbaptist.net

Sixth Baptist Church Theme for 2015: Becoming a Five-Star Church of Excellence We Are Growing In The Kingdom As We Grow The Kingdom with Word, Worship and Witness

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Phil. 4:13

Rev. Dr. Yvonne Jones Bibbs, Pastor Twitter sixthbaptistrva

Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Watch Night Service 9:00 P.M. New Year’s Chew and Chat 10:00 P.M. Worship Through Prayer 10:30 P.M. Worship Through Praise In Concert: The Fabulous Soldiers of Vision 11:40 P.M. Worship Through The Word Midnight Prayer Sunday, January 5, 2015 Happy New Year 11:00 A.M. Worship Service Message by: Pastor Bibbs Installation of Church Officers and Re-Dedication of Church Members Save the Date: January 17th Church Retreat: 9:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M. Seminar: Pastor Bibbs and Dr. John Kinney Open to the public from 12:00-1:30 P.M. 400 South Addison Street, Richmond, Va. 23220

(near Byrd Park)

Facebook sixthbaptistrva

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

Thirty-first Street Baptist Church ance with Relev

everence

ing Dr. Morris Henderson, Senior Pastor bin m o ❖ C SUNDAYS Church School 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. ❖

WEDNESDAYS Bible Study 12:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. ❖

MONDAY-FRIDAY Nutrition Center and Clothes Closet 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. 823 North 31st Street Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 226-0150 Office www.31sbc.org

Wednesday, December 31, 2014 9:00 p.m. Doors open at 8:00 p.m.

Bishop G. O. Glenn D. Min., Founder Mother Marcietia S. Glenn First Lady

Sunday 8 a.m. Sunday School 9:00 a.m. Worship Service

Wednesday Services Senior Citizens Noonday Bible Study Every Wed. 12noon-1pm Sanctuary - All Are Welcome! 7:00 p.m. Prayer 7:30 p.m. Mid-Week Revival/ Bible Study Count

Saturday

8:30 a.m. Intercessory Prayer

19th NDEC Founders & Church Anniversary January 18, 2015 9:00 a.m. & January 25, 2014 - 9:00 a.m. Theme:

“The Good Hand of Our God Has Been Upon Us” – Nehemiah 2:8, 18

Tune in on sunday morning to wTvr - channel 6 - 8:30 a.m. sunday Tv Broadcast wTvZ 9 a.m. Norfolk/Tidewater Thursday & Friday radio Broadcast wrEJ 1540 am radio - 8:15 a.m.- 8:30 a.m.

THE NEw DElivEraNcE cHrisTiaN acaDEmy (NDca)

ENROLL NOW!!! Accepting applications for children 2 yrs. old to 3rd Grade

You can now view Our NDCA curriculum also consists Sunday Morning Service of a Before and After program. “AS IT HAPPENS” online! Now Enrolling for our Nursery Ages 6 weeks - 2yrs. old. Also, for your convenience, For more information we now offer Please call (804) 276-4433 “full online giving.” Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Visit www.ndec.net.

B6 December 31, 2014-January 3, 2015

Richmond Free Press

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, January 12, 2015 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. 2014-249 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept a donation of services and materials valued at approximately $90,000 from the James River Association for the installation of a stormwater management project along the race route of the UCI 2015 Road World Championships in Richmond in the form of the redevelopment of the 21st Street Tower entrance to James River Park. Ordinance No. 2014-250 To declare that a public necessity exists and to authorize the acquisition of temporary construction easements for the public purpose of constructing multimodal transportation and drainage improvements along Forest Hill Avenue between its intersection with Hathaway Road and its intersection with the Powhite Parkway. Ordinance No. 2014-251 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to accept eight solar powered LED lights and installation services valued at approximately $85,000 from ExxonMobil Oil Corporation for use at the Ancarrow’s Landing site, at no cost to the City. Ordinance No. 2014-252 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a VDOT Project Administration Agreement between the City of Richmond and the Virginia Department of Transportation for the inspection and load rating of the Robert E. Lee Bridge by the Virginia Department of Transportation. Ordinance No. 2014-253 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to accept funds in the amount of $84,000 from the Duffield Family Foundation, doing business as Maddie’s Fund, and to appropriate the increase to the Fiscal Year 2014-2015 Special Fund Budget by increasing estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to the Office of Animal Care and Control by $84,000 for the purpose of providing medical care and treatment for homeless animals in the city of Richmond. Ordinance No. 2014-254 To amend Ord. No. 2014237-210, adopted November 10, 2014, which authorized the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Stone Brewery Cooperation Agreement between the City of Richmond and the Economic Development Authority of the City of Richmond for the purpose of facilitating the construction of Authority facilities that will house the operations of KoochenVagner’s Brewing Co., doing business as Stone Brewing Co., for the purpose of adding certain restrictions for the use of revenues derived from the Development. Ordinance No. 2014-255 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to accept funds in the amount of $420,000 from the Curbside Value Partnership, Inc., and to appropriate the increase to the Fiscal Year 2014-2015 Special Fund Budget by increasing estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to the Department of Public Works by $420,000 for the purpose of enhancing the City’s residential recycling services. Ordinance No. 2014-256 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept a gift of services valued at approximately $139,000 from the Curbside Value Partnership, Inc. for the purpose of enhancing the City’s residential recycling services. Ordinance No. 2014-257 To amend ch. 42, art. I of the City Code by adding therein a new section 42-14, concerning the publication of the City’s payment register, to require that the City’s payment register be published on the City’s website. Ordinance No. 2014-262 To declare a public necessity for and to authorize the acquisition of the parcel of real property owned by the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority and known as 5001 Williamsburg Avenue for the purpose of establishing a new public Continued on next column

Continued from previous column

park to be named Historic Fulton Memorial Park. Interested citizens who wish to speak will be given an opportunity to do so. Copies of the full text of all ordinances are available by visiting the City Clerk’s page on the City’s Website at www.Richmondgov. com 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. Jean V. Capel City Clerk

Divorce VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HENRICO AHMAD SHNANA, Plaintiff v. TREACY FLAMBERT, Defendant. Case No.: CL14-2396 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to grant Ahmad Shnana, the Plaintiff, a divorce from Treacy Flambert, the Defendant, on the ground that Defendant willfully deserted the Plaintiff, and he is requesting an award of attorneys’ fees and costs. WHEREFORE, an affidavit having been filed that due diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of Treacy Flambert, it is hereby ORDERED that Treacy Flambert appear before this Court on January 26, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. to protect her interests herein. A Copy, Teste: YVONNE G. SMITH, Clerk I ask for this: Rick A. Friedman, II, Esquire (VSB #46870) Lindsay G. Dugan, Esquire (VSB #76507) Friedman Law Firm, P.C. 9620 Iron Bridge Road, Suite 101 Chesterfield, VA 23832 (804) 717-1969 (telephone) (804) 748-4161 (telecopier) Counsel for the Plaintiff VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER VANESSA THOMAS, Plaintiff v. REGINALD THOMAS, Defendant. Case No.: CL14000494-00 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 is a nonresident, appear here on or before the 13th day of February, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. and protect his interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER EZEKIAL ROBINSON, Plaintiff v. ANN REID, Defendant. Case No.: CL14002846-00 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 4th day of February, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

Continued from previous column

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER TANISHA SCOTT, Plaintiff v. CORNELIUS SCOTT, Defendant. Case No.: CL14002717-00 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 22nd day of January, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. and protect his interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005

by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that WILBERT J. BELLAMY, SR., who may be deceased, and the heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest of WILBERT J. BELLAMY, SR., BEVERLY PATTERSON a/k/a BEVERLY ROSE BELLAMY-PATTERSON a/k/a BEVERLY ROSE BELLAMY, SHARON SHEPARD a/k/a SHARON DANITA BELLAMY SHEPARD p/k/a SHARON DANITA BELLAMY, WILLIAM J. PANTELE, DONALD C. BURRIESCI, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2015, 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 804-646-7940

Case Nos.: JJ084075-01-00;-02-00; and JJ084046-01-00;-02-00 In Re: Amaya Maria Gaytan, DOB: 01/28/2008; and Annabelle Denise Gaytan, DOB: 09/19/09 Order of Publication The object of this suit is to grant Amanda Maria Gaytan, the Plaintiff, sole legal and physical custody of the minor children Amaya Maria Gaytan, DOB: 01/28/2008, and Annabelle Denise Gaytan, DOB: 09/19/09. WHEREFORE, And affidavit having been filed that due diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of the father of the minor children, Bryan Gaytan, it is ORDERED that the father, Bryan Gaytan, appear before this Court on February 23, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. to protect his interests herein. WE ASK FOR THIS: Rick A. Friedman, II, Esquire (VSB #46870) Kimberly L. Fitzgerald, Esquire (VSB #74883) Friedman Law Firm, P.C. 9620 Iron Bridge Road Suite 101 Chesterfield, VA 23832 (804) 717-1969 (telephone) (804) 748-4161 (telecopier) Counsel for the Petiti0oner

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER RICKY ARCHER II, Plaintiff v. CASSANDRA ARCHER, Defendant. Case No.: CL14002258-00 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 is a nonresident, appear here on or before the 29th day of January, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER BRET Hall, Plaintiff v. JENNIFER HALL, Defendant. Case No.: CL1400147-00 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 4th day of February, 2015 and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

PROPERTY

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER PAULETTE PONTON, Plaintiff v. HERBERT PONTON, Defendant. Case No.: CL14002631-00 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 22nd day of January, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. and protect his interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. Case No.: CL13-1894-1 WILBERT J. BELLAMY, SR., Who May Be Deceased, and THE HEIRS, DEVISEES, ASSIGNEES OR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF WILBERT J. BELLAMY, SR., et al., Defendants. AMENDED ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as “3023 Hanes Avenue”, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map/GPIN# N0000973/036, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, WILBERT J. BELLAMY, SR., who may be deceased. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, WILBERT J. BELLAMY, SR., who may be deceased, and the heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest of WILBERT J. BELLAMY, SR., have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that BEVERLY PATTERSON a/k/a BEVERLY ROSE BELLAMY-PATTERSON a/k/a BEVERLY ROSE BELLAMY and SHARON SHEPARD a/k/a SHARON DANITA BELLAMY SHEPARD p/k/a SHARON DANITA BELLAMY, who may have an ownership interest in said property, have not been personally located and have not filed a response to this action; that WILLIAM J. PANTELE and DONALD C. BURRIESCI, who may be creditors with an interest in said property, 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

Continued on next column

Sales of Unclaimed, Forfeited, and Surplus Property are posted on Govdeals.com or sold the first consecutive Tuesday (Residents and Taxpayers of Henrico County – ID required) and Wednesday (General Public) of each month at Henrico Surplus Property Warehouse 1510 E. Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228, 8:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. For more information visit our website at http://www. co.henrico.va.us/genserv/ purchasing/surplus-sales/ or call 501-5697

ADOPTION Virginia: In the juvenile and domestic relations district court for the County of Chesterfield Amanda Maria Gaytan, Petitioner, v. Bryan Gaytan, Respondent. Continued on next column

Department of public utilities city of richmonD, Virginia Notice of Intent to Adopt Departmental Rules and Regulations The Director of Public Utilities proposes to adopt departmental rules and regulations pertaining to the following matter, pursuant to Sections 106-32 and 106-261 of the Code of the City of Richmond and other authority, and proposed to become effective Tuesday, February 3, 2015: • MetroCare Water Assistance Program (pursuant to City Code Sections 106-260 through 106-264). On Wednesday, January 21, 2015, at 10:00 a.m., the Director will hold a public hearing in the Lower Level Atrium at the Department’s Operations Center, located at 400 Jefferson Davis Highway, Richmond, Virginia, to hear all persons who want to comment on the proposed rules and regulations. Limited parking is available in the rear of the Operations Center (Maury Street entrance). All persons wanting to speak during the public hearing must be present and must sign in to speak by no later than 10:05 a.m. Please arrive approximately 10 minutes early to allow time to check in with the facility’s security guards. The hearing will be adjourned promptly following completion of the public comments. Copies of the proposed rules and regulations will be available for public inspection during normal business hours (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday) from Tuesday, January 6, 2015 through Friday, January 30, 2015 in the Director’s Office (730 East Broad Street, 6th Floor, Richmond, Virginia 23219). To receive copies by email, please call (804) 646-5200. Written comments concerning the proposed rules and regulations may submitted in person or by mail to the Director of Public Utilities, and if received before the close of business, Friday, January 30, 2015, will be considered. City offices will be closed on Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 19, 2015.

Order of Publication Commonwealth of Virginia Chesterfield Circuit Court 9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832 Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Name change of Zara Farooqui Case No. CL14-2981 The object of this suit is to: Change name of minor It is ORDERED that Mohammed Farooqui, appear at the above-named court and protet his/her interests on or before January 26, 2015. An Extract Teste: WENDY S. HUGHES, Clerk Michael A. Perdue 9011 Arboretum Pkwy, Suite 200, Richmond, VA 23236 (804) 330-9220

Department of public utilities city of richmonD, Virginia Notice of Intent to Adopt Departmental Rules and Regulations

TransiT sysTem

Notice of Public Meeting

The Director of Public Utilities proposes to adopt departmental rules and regulations pertaining to the following matter, pursuant to Sections 106-32 and 106-347(c) of the Code of the City of Richmond and other authority, and proposed to become effective Tuesday, February 3, 2015:

A public meeting will be held to inform riders of proposed service changes that are to become effective February 9, 2015 for Express Routes 81x and 82x. When: Wednesday, January 14, 2015, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

• Cross Connection Control Manual (pursuant to City Code Section 106-347). On Thursday, January 22, 2015, at 10:00 a.m., the Director will hold a public hearing in the Lower Level Atrium at the Department’s Operations Center, located at 400 Jefferson Davis Highway, Richmond, Virginia, to hear all persons who want to comment on the proposed rules and regulations. Limited parking is available in the rear of the Operations Center (Maury Street entrance). All persons wanting to speak during the public hearing must be present and must sign in to speak by no later than 10:05 a.m. Please arrive approximately 10 minutes early to allow time to check in with the facility’s security guards. The hearing will be adjourned promptly following completion of the public comments. Copies of the proposed rules and regulations will be available for public inspection during normal business hours (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday) from Tuesday, January 6, 2015 through Friday, January 30, 2015 in the Director’s Office (730 East Broad Street, 6th Floor, Richmond, Virginia 23219). To receive copies by email, please call (804) 646-5200. Written comments concerning the proposed rules and regulations may be submitted in person or by mail to the Director of Public Utilities, and if received before the close of business, Friday, January 30, 2015, will be considered. City offices will be closed on Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 19, 2015.

Location: RideFinders, 1013 East Main Street, Richmond, VA 23218 If you are unable to attend this meeting, please submit your comments until January 22, 2015, to: Planning Department GRTC Transit System 301 East Belt Boulevard Richmond, VA 23224 Phone: 804-358-3871 E-mail: planningcomment@ridegrtc.com Fax: 804-342-1933

TransiT sysTem

PUBLIC NOTICE OF Revised DBE GOAL FOR FY 2015-FY2016 The is to inform the public that Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) has established a revised Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program Goal of 7.9% for Federal Fiscal Years 2015-2016 for federally funded expenditures.

Good Hopewell Baptist Church Is seeking a

Part-Time Senior Pastor Please email resume to: ghbc4godministries@gmail.com With your resume and statement of purpose. Deadline for all applicants no later than Midnight January 16, 2015.

Details regarding this goal and how it was established are available for review for the next 30 days at GRTC Headquarters located at 301 East Belt Boulevard, Richmond, Virginia 23224. Written comments, questions, or inquiries regarding the proposed goal will be accepted for 45 calendar days from the date of publication of this notice. DBE businesses are encouraged to submit a brochure and letter of interest stipulating qualifications, products and services offered. All DBEs who desire to provide products or services must hold a Virginia Department of Transportation DBE Program certification issued by the Virginia Department of Minority Business Enterprise. Comments may be sent to the following individuals: Antionette Haynes GRTC’s DBE Liaison Officer 301 East Belt Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23224 and Stacie Parkins Civil Rights Officer, Region 3 Federal Transit Administration 1760 Market Street, Suite 500 Philadelphia, PA 19103-4124. GRTC’s DBE goal of 7.9% will be the final goal unless amended.

To advertise in the

Richmond Free Press call 644-0496

NEWS SpEcialiSt NBC12 seeks news/content specialist. Qualified candidates should have experience in all areas of broadcast operations including microwave, tape editing, graphics, camera and audio. Good computer and internet skills. Work schedule may include days, nights and weekends. Apply on line at https://careers-raycommedia.icims.com Drug Screen required. EOE M/F/D/V.

The Richmond Free Press is seeking a reliable and creative person for a part-time graphics position. Individual must be proficient in Macintosh Creative Suite Design software (Indesign and Photoshop) to produce accurate, high quality camera-ready advertisements and news page layouts for print production. Attention for details. Duties will include website maintenance. Ability to be flexible and work under deadline cooperatively in a team environment is essential. Submit cover letter, resumé and samples of work to address below. Human Resources Richmond Free Press P.O. Box 27709 Richmond, Virginia 23261 No phone calls please

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tremendous economic clout. Economic clout so great that it determines whether most companies in the Richmond

tremendous economic clout. Economic clout so great that area make a profit — especially during these hard times. tremendous economic clout. Economic clout so great that We can make a difference. it determines whether most companies in the Richmond We can make a terms difference. As customers and taxpayers, we should vote with our We urge our readers to think in economic and it determines whether most companies in the Richmond area make a profit — especially during these hard times. That is, if we vote daily with our dollars.

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