Richmond Free Press by Richmond Free Press

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VOL. 24 NO. 2

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JAnuary 8-10, 2015

From the mansion to prison McDonnell sentenced to 2 years By Joey Matthews

Judge Spencer

Stone-faced, former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell rose from his seat. He slowly walked to a podium where he stoically faced U.S. District Judge James R. Spencer in a packed courtroom in Downtown. “Judge Spencer, I stand before you as a heartbroken and humbled man,” he said Tuesday, his voice soft, but firm. “I can’t fathom any deeper humiliation for me and my family.” As he pleaded for leniency, Mr. McDonnell, 60, faced a sentence of six years or more behind bars after his conviction in September on 11 federal corruption charges. He told the judge he holds himself “fully accountable

Sources: Chief Tarasovic set to retire By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Police Chief Ray J. Tarasovic plans to announce his retirement this week as he approaches his second anniversary in office, the Free Press has learned. City Hall sources said Chief Tarasovic, 66, would use a Friday news conference called to release 2014 crime statistics to make the announcement that he would be stepping down within a few weeks. Chief Tarasovic made the decision, the sources said, and was not facing any pressure to leave from his boss, Mayor Dwight C. Jones. Mayor Jones will join Chief Tarasovic at the news conference, but sources said he is unlikely to announce a successor or even an interim chief. At best, one source said, the mayor would discuss “the process” he would use in selecting Chief Tarasovic’s replacement. The decision, which is solely the mayor’s to make, will be followed closely. It has been more than 25 years since an officer who rose through the Richmond ranks has served as more than an interim chief. Since 1989, every new chief has come from outside the department. By the Free Press deadline Wednesday night, the mayor’s office had not issued a statement in response to the newspaper’s query about the future of Chief Tarasovic. Separately, Gene Lepley, spokesman for the police department, said he had not been notified of any impending change in command. The chief’s imminent departure did not surprise CouncilPlease turn to A4

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Former Gov. Bob McDonnell is the first Virginia governor to be convicted and sentenced to prison.

for all the words, all the actions I took as governor,” then added, “I am a sinner with many, many human frailties.” Mr. McDonnell and former First Lady Maureen McDonnell were indicted last January for receiving improper gifts and loans totaling more than $177,000 from former Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams Sr. in exchange for access to the Executive Mansion and state officials to promote his dietary supplement Anatabloc. Mrs. McDonnell was convicted on nine felony counts, which later were reduced to eight. She is scheduled for sentencing Feb. 20. After a brief deliberation, and as courtroom spectators anxiously leaned forward and media members inside and outside the building waited, Judge Spencer

sentenced Mr. McDonnell to two years in federal prison and two additional years on supervised probation after his release. Judge Spencer ordered Mr. McDonnell to report to prison Monday, Feb. 9, with federal prison authorities to determine the specific prison. After leaving the courtroom, Mr. McDonnell still maintained his innocence and vowed to quickly appeal, a prospect that could affect his date to go behind bars. His lawyers already are asking the judges of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to allow him to remain free on bond while his appeal is considered. Mr. McDonnell was Virginia’s 71st governor from Please turn to A4

Mosby new City Council president By Jeremy M. Lazarus

This is “an opportunity for a new direction. … Let’s make the most of it.” That’s how businesswoman Michelle R. Mosby described her history-making elevation to president of City Council — the first African-American woman to hold the top post on Richmond’s governing body in its 233 years of operation. Now 45, the first-term representative of the 9th District on South Side pledged to make her mark through building “better relationships between council, the administration and our constituents” and by improving ties with county neighbors. “It’s now time to do great things in Richmond,” the real estate broker and hair salon owner said after she was elected 9-0 to replace 2nd District Councilman Charles R. Samuels, an attorney who led the council for the past two years. Council also unanimously elected Chris A. Hilbert, 3rd District, as vice president

to succeed Ellen F. Robertson, 6th District, who has held the No. 2 post for six years and who was bypassed for the top spot. After thanking God, her parents and other family Ms. Mosby and her colleagues, particularly Mr. Samuels — Ms. Mosby said later she studied tapes of meetings at which he presided to prepare herself — she urged a more cooperative approach to governance. Regarded as a consistent council vote for Mayor Dwight C. Jones, Ms. Mosby noted the outlook is good for the city, with prospects for new jobs from the arrival of Stone Brewing and for new attention from the projected flood of visitors for the World Cycling Championships the city will host in September.

Shying away from controversy, Ms. Mosby did not mention a hot-button development topic — the mayor’s stalled initiative to develop a new baseball stadium in Shockoe Bottom, a project she has supMr. Hilbert ported. If there is to be success in tackling the poverty that afflicts one in four residents and in moving the city forward, she said, then everyone who loves the city — from business interests to activists — must understand “we’re all in this together. And the only way we’ll succeed is if we acknowledge that fact. “So if we look to fight with the administration, with our neighbors, with each other, just because we can, then we’ll Please turn to A5

Preston handily wins 63rd House District By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Democrat Joseph E. Preston is headed to the General Assembly. The 58-year-old Petersburg area attorney easily won Tuesday’s special election in the 63rd House District to replace now

state Sen. Rosalyn R. Dance in the House of Delegates. His victory came 21 years after his first, unsuccessful attempt to represent the Petersburg area in 1993. In a contest that drew only 1,543 of the district’s 53,000 registered voters, Mr.

Preston overwhelmed his only challenger, independent William H. “Mouse” Jones Jr., 59, a civic activist and concert promoter in Petersburg. Unofficial results show Mr. Preston Please turn to A5

Grand juror in Brown case sues; vigils for Richmond officer continue Free Press staff, wire reports

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Johnella Jones leads Monday’s prayer vigil for her cousin, Richmond Police Officer William Turner, who was shot while responding to a call. The vigils are held 3 p.m. daily in the courtyard at 11th and Clay streets outside the hospital where Officer Turner is being treated.

A member of the grand jury that declined to indict a Ferguson, Mo., police officer in the shooting death of an unarmed 18-year-old black man contends in a lawsuit filed Monday that the prosecutor in the case wrongly implied that all 12 jurors believed there was no evidence to support charges. The American Civil Liberties Union filed the lawsuit on behalf of the unnamed juror, who wants to be allowed to talk publicly about the case but could face charges for doing so because of a lifetime gag order. The juror also states in the suit that he or she came away with the impression that evidence was presented differently than in other cases, with the insinuation that the slain man, Michael

Brown, and not Officer Darren Wilson, was the wrongdoer. No grand jurors have spoken publicly about the case. The suit argues that state laws prohibiting the grand juror from talking about the case are unconstitutional. Jeffrey Mittman, executive director of the ACLU in Missouri, said the Brown case is an important public policy issue and the grand juror should be allowed to speak about the proceedings. Mr. Brown was fatally shot after an Aug. 9 confrontation with Mr. Wilson, the white police officer who has since resigned from the Ferguson police department. Mr. Brown’s death in a St. Louis suburb Please turn to A4

Richmond Free Press

January 8-10, 2015

Local News

New Huguenot High opens to 1,400 students Mayor falls short on minority participation

Richmond has its ﬁrst new high school in 46 years. Nearly 1,400 students poured into the new Huguenot High on Monday after Mayor Dwight C. Jones joined in cutting the ribbon on what he called the “Taj Mahal of high schools.” For students, teachers and administrators, the building on Forest Hill Avenue adjacent to the old building is a welcome upgrade from their previous home. The spacious marvel features, among other things, a wireless computer network, a 1,000-seat auditorium, a 2,500-seat gym with three courts and modern athletic facilities. Behind the scenes, the mayor fell a bit short on his goal to have 40 percent of the construction work undertaken by minority contractors. At best, the general contractor, Maryland-based Hess Construction

James Haskins/Richmond Free Press

Mayor Dwight C. Jones proudly celebrates the opening Monday of the new Huguenot High School before a packed house in the 2,500-seat gym. Councilwoman Kathy C. Graziano, right, is among city officials listening in. Z-18

New Petersburg mayor, vice mayor W. Howard Myers is the new mayor of Petersburg and Carl “Mike” Ross is the vice mayor. A divided Petersburg City Council elected the new leadership on a 4-3 vote Monday. Mayor Myers takes over the top post from Ward 4 Councilman Brian A. Moore, who supported the change and nominated Mayor Myers to serve as council’s presiding ofﬁcer and titular leader of the city. Mayor Myers, 55, has served on the council since 2011 and was reMayor Myers Vice Mayor Ross elected in November to his second four-year term representing Ward 5. “I feel elated and very happy that I was selected and will hopefully continue the great work being done in Petersburg,” Mayor Myers said. As the result of his election, he said his only job would be working “full time as the mayor.” The mayor earns $8,500 a year, while other council members receive a salary of $6,500 a year. A native of Baltimore, Mayor Myers grew up in Richmond and has lived in Petersburg since 2003. The new mayor said he would advocate for council to support projects that promote jobs, growth and community betterment, citing as examples the renovation of the former Virginia Avenue School into a health and wellness center and Virginia State University’s $1.5 million development of an indoor farm and produce center at the old Harding Street Recreation Center. Vice Mayor Ross, the Ward 2 representative, succeeds Horace Edwards, the former Ward 7 representative who stepped down in December and has been replaced by John A. Hart Sr. Mr. Hart was among the three council members who opposed the new leadership. A full-time educator at Fort Lee, the new vice mayor has served on the council since 2003, following a six-year stint on the Petersburg School Board. — JEREMY M. LAZARUS

City ends year with 42 homicides, most in state Richmond still suffers from terrible crimes. The most recent example: The death of 25-year-old Chancellor Price, who was gunned down at a South Side gas station three days before Christmas. No arrests have been made in the homicide of Mr. Price, who survived a shooting in August when he drove himself to the hospital. Another example: The tragic slayings of 2-year-old Keytrell Kelly, his mother, Michelle, and her friend, Andrea Gray, during an October visit to Keytrell’s grandmother on South Side. All three were gunned down by Keytrell’s father, Traymont Burton, who then killed himself. The good news: Far fewer of these family-shattering crimes are taking place in Richmond, despite the city’s continued ranking as the murder capital of the commonwealth. City police report that Richmond ended 2014 with 42 homicides, the fourth lowest figure since 2008 and among the fewest since 1963. So far, the city has yet to record its first killing since the new year began. While Richmond still reports more homicides annually than any other Virginia locality, according to State Police data, 2014 was the seventh straight year that fewer than 50 homicides occurred in the city. The fewest slayings in that stretch occurred in 2008 when only 36 homicides were reported; the highest number in those seven years, 43 in 2012. Last year, 37 homicides were reported. Before 2007, a year with 70 homicides was considered a good year in Richmond. The city hit its peak of slayings in 1994 with 160 violent deaths. The trend of lower homicides began in 2007 when 53 slayings were reported. The drop in slayings has been accompanied by a decline in other crimes. Richmond Police expects to report a decline of at least 4 percent in total violent and property crimes in 2014 when final numbers are issued this week. Overall, reported crime in the city has dropped more than 12 percent since 2008, according to state crime data, even though the city’s population has grown by 16,000 residents to 211,172 in 2013. In 2008, police reported 21,914 incidents or 11 crimes of all kinds per 100 residents, State Police data show. The data show that Richmond Police reported 19,116 crime incidents in 2013, or about nine crimes per 100 residents. — JEREMY M. LAZARUS and JOEY MATTHEWS

& Engineering Services, spent about $21 million with such ﬁrms, or about one-third of the $63.3 million that went into construction and engineering. However, many of the contracts that minority-owned ﬁrms won were relatively large and involved key components. For example: The Hyperion Group

of Richmond received a $1.1 million contract to install critical low-voltage systems. Both are African-Americanowned firms. In all, 19 minority-owned companies — those owned by African-Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans and Asians — were among the 58 companies Hess listed as subcontractors. Twelve of the 19 minority-owned companies are based in the RichmondPetersburg area. Still, several of the larger contracts went to minority-owned firms based outside Virginia. Chevy Chase Contractors of Silver Spring, Md., an Hispanic-owned firm, received the largest contract of any minority-owned business — $4.6 million — for providing the school building’s foundations, retaining walls and other concrete work. Another big winner was Shelton Federal Group, a Washington-based African-American-owned company, which was awarded about $1.1 million for site work, construction fencing and other related work. — JEREMY M. LAZARUS

Cityscape Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

of Richmond, an African-Americanowned firm, received a $2.4 million a contract for plumbing and air conditioning equipment work. Team ACP Construction, another African-American-owned firm based in Richmond, received about $1 million for drywall, painting and ceiling work. Also, Virginia Energy and Lighting of Chesterfield was awarded about $1.6 million to install interior and exterior lighting and emergency generators, while River City Communications

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January 8-10, 2015

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A4 January 8-10, 2015

Richmond Free Press

News

From mansion to prison dime a dozen. Corrupt governors are not.” Mr. Wilder left the stand after telling the prosecutor, “I’m confident this judge will look at the totality of this case and do what is warranted.” Another round of applause followed. Delegate William J. Howell, the speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates, also spoke on Mr. McDonnell’s behalf. He said both chambers of the General Assembly had passed ethics reform legislation last year in response to the corruption case. He said he expected those reforms to be further tightened in the upcoming legislative session. In arguing before the judge for a stringent prison sentence, Mr. Dry called Mr. McDonnell’s acts “unprecedented in Virginia’s … history” and said the case “further erodes the public’s trust of government.” “The defendant has shown no true remorse in this case for his crime,” only apologizing after it was publicly exposed, he said. U.S. Attorney Dana J. Boente issued a statement following the sentencing, expressing hope that the “investigation, prosecution and sentence will help restore and maintain the high integrity of the governor’s office, while affirming our commitment to prosecuting public officials who commit crimes.” As he began to walk from the courtroom, Mr. McDonnell hugged, kissed and reassured teary-eyed family members and friends. Initially, he shook Mrs. McDonnell’s hand, and later kissed her before he exited. Outside the courtroom, Mr. McDonnell waded through a sea of photographers, then told a huge throng of reporters, “I want to thank the court and Judge Spencer for the mercy he dispensed to me today. “I’ve hurt myself, my family and my beloved people of Virginia, and, for that, I am deeply, deeply sorry,” Mr. McDonnell said. “But I will also say to the great people of Virginia that I have never, ever betrayed my sacred oath of office in any way while I served as the governor of this great commonwealth.” Mr. McDonnell’s defense team requested that, if he goes to prison, he be remanded to the Federal Correctional Complex in Petersburg to be near his family, a request Judge Spencer said he would support. Mr. Brownlee praised Judge Spencer’s work during the trial and sentencing. “You could see a real professional federal judge,” he said. “He looked at Bob McDonnell as a human being,” in determining his sentence.

Continued from A1

2010 to 2014. No sitting or former Virginia governor has ever been indicted or convicted of a felony and sentenced to prison. Mrs. McDonnell and other family members held hands prior to his sentencing. Some quietly sobbed after the sentence was announced. Mr. McDonnell had asked Judge Spencer to allow him to perform community service instead of going to prison so he could “serve people in need.” He also asked for mercy for his wife. His lawyers pushed for 6,000 hours of community service instead of incarceration. Prosecutors initially asked for at least a 10-year sentence. Before he announced the sentence, Judge Spencer said he had sympathy for Mr. McDonnell’s family and “would love to turn back the hands of time” so that the gifts-for-access scandal had never taken place. Judge Spencer said he believed Mr. McDonnell to be “a good and decent man who has done a lot of good in the public arena.” He reiterated, however, that Mr. McDonnell must be punished for his exchanges with Mr. Williams, which Judge Spencer said betrayed the public trust. “While Mrs. McDonnell may have allowed the serpent into the mansion, the governor knowingly let him into his personal and business affairs,” the judge said, referring to Mr. Williams. “Mr. McDonnell should have listened to those who counseled him to stay away from Mr. Williams. “Unlike Pontius Pilate, I can’t wash my hands of it all,” the judge said. “A meaningful sentence must be imposed.” He said, though, that a lengthy sentence of six years “would be ridiculous.” He made up his mind on the term after weighing several factors. One was the strong show of support Mr. McDonnell received from family and friends, including more than 400 letters that poured into the courthouse in the weeks before he was sentenced seeking leniency for the former governor. The judge said he also considered Mr. McDonnell’s long record of military and public service in determining the sentence, which includes 20 years in the Army and Army Reserve as well as service in the General Assembly and as attorney general before becoming governor. And he also listened to the testimony of 11 character witnesses who testified during Tuesday’s five-hour hearing before the sentence was imposed. Chief among the witnesses was former Gov. L. Douglas Wilder, whose testimony drew two rounds of applause. Former national NAACP President Benjamin T. Jealous was among the courtroom observers. “I’m here in a private capacity,” he told the Free Press. “He (Mr. McDonnell) and I worked together on restoring voting rights (for ex-offenders) throughout his administration. “He did courageous work on voting rights. He stood up when few Republican governors would do so. He pushed the ball forward a great deal. I know him to be a man of principle and courage.” Former NFL star Bruce Smith of Virginia Beach accompanied Mr. McDonnell to the hearing. Among those who wrote letters of support: Former Virginia governor and now U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine; Hampton University President William R. Harvey; Linda G. Hassell, widow of the late Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justice Leroy R. Hassell Sr.; Thomas F. Farrell II, chairman, president and CEO at Dominion Resources; and the co-founders of the Gloucester Institute, Kay Coles James and her husband, Charles E. James Sr., who both previously served in top state and federal posts. Lead defense attorney John L. Brownlee singled out as “extraordinary” Mr. Wilder’s testimony as a character witness. “He’s one of the best witnesses I’ve seen in my twenty-some years in court,” Mr. Brownlee said. In his 15 minutes on the stand, Mr. Wilder recalled first meeting Mr. McDonnell at a Veteran’s Day event in Virginia Beach when Mr. McDonnell’s twin sons were still in a stroller. Mr. Wilder said the two became friends and shared a similar goal in public service: To “serve the public.” “He was very proud of the fact he came from humble beginnings,” Mr. Wilder said, describing Mr. McDonnell as a man of his word. “If he told you something, you could go to sleep on it. … Not all of us do that.” Mr. Wilder said if Mr. McDonnell had not been indicted, “He’d be on the short list for president, without question.” Somewhat surprisingly, Mr. Wilder was the only character

McDonnell supporters

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Former Gov. Bob McDonnell embraces his daughter, Cailin, amid the throngs of people drawn to the hearing.

witness that the lead prosecutor, Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. Dry, cross-examined. Seeking to dampen Mr. Wilder’s high praise of Mr. McDonnell, Mr. Dry asked Mr. Wilder about the former governor accepting bribes. Mr. Wilder calmly replied: “The progenitor of the bribe, the person who started everything, walked away clean,” referring to the broad grant of immunity Mr. Williams received from the prosecution in exchange for his testimony against the McDonnells. Mr. Wilder’s remark drew loud applause from Mr. McDonnell’s courtroom supporters. Mr. Dry retorted, “The Mr. Williamses of the world are a

Mr. Wilder

Ms. James

Mr. Farrell

Mr. Jealous

Mr. Smith

Sources: Chief set to retire Continued from A1

woman Reva M. Trammell, chair of the council’s Public Safety Committee. While she had not received any official word, Ms. Trammell said Tuesday that department insiders have been buzzing for nearly two months that the chief would leave soon. Rumors of Chief Tarasovic’s retirement began flying after he named Alfred Durham, a former colleague in Washington and in Richmond, to his leadership team as deputy chief of administrative services just before Thanksgiving. Chief Tarasovic has been in charge of the department since Feb. 13, 2013. The mayor introduced him after announcing the departure of Bryan T. Norwood, who was named chief in 2008 by Mayor Jones’ predecessor, L. Douglas Wilder, just before Mr. Wilder left office. At the time, Chief Tarasovic said he would serve “for as long as the mayor needs me.” His message on the department’s website shows no sign that he is ready to move on: “As I have said so many times, I am delighted and humbled to be the police chief in Richmond. To be given an opportunity to serve this beautiful, fun and vibrant city is a chance of a lifetime. Leading an agency of dedicated professionals who recognize their calling and pursue it with a passion is extremely rewarding.” A career police officer for more than 32 years in Washington and other cities, Chief Tarasovic first joined Richmond Police in 2005 to serve as assistant police chief to then-Chief Rodney Monroe. In 2008, he followed Chief Monroe to Charlotte, N.C., but later retired to Richmond. Mayor Jones called Chief Tarasovic out of retirement after essentially firing Chief Norwood. Deputy Chief Durham served as Chief Monroe’s chief of staff for two years. He returned to Richmond after retiring in October from the Washington police department after 25 years of service. He now supervises finance, training, technology, planning and human resources as one of three deputy chiefs in Richmond. Eric English is deputy chief of operations and John Buturla is deputy chief of support services.

Flanked by attorneys, family and friends, former Gov. Bob McDonnell addresses the media outside the federal courthouse in Downtown.

Grand juror in Brown case sues; vigils for city officer continue Continued from A1

triggered months of protests across the country over police treatment of AfricanAmericans, including scores of deaths of unarmed black men at the hands of white police officers. Protests intensified after Nov. 24, when St. Louis County prosecutor Bob McCulloch publicly announced that the grand jury investigating the case had decided there wasn’t enough evidence to indict Mr. Wilson. With the release by Mr. McCulloch of evidence presented, some critics accused the prosecutor of unfairly skewing the process in favor of the police officer. The suit was filed against Mr. McCulloch, who oversaw the investigation, because his office would be responsible for bringing charges against the juror. Mr. McCulloch’s spokesman, Ed Magee, said his office had not seen the lawsuit and declined immediate comment. “Right now, there are only 12 people

who can’t talk about the evidence out there,” ACLU attorney Tony Rothert said. “The people who know the most — those 12 people are sworn to secrecy. What (the grand juror) wants is to be able to be part of the Officer Turner conversation.” The lawsuit also claims the prosecutor’s office presented applicable laws to grand jurors “in a muddled and untimely manner” unlike presentations in other cases. The grand juror also contends that McCulloch’s public statements about the decision not to indict were not “entirely accurate,” including the “implication that all grand jurors believed that there was no support for any charges,” the lawsuit stated.

Jurors could have charged Mr. Wilson with murder or manslaughter, but nine of the 12 would have had to agree. Meanwhile, vigils continue outside VCU Medical Center in Richmond for city police Master Patrol Officer William Turner, who was shot in the stomach Jan. 2, when he and another officer responded to a mental health call in Fulton. Officer Turner’s family, police officers and community members have held daily prayer vigils at 3 p.m. in the courtyard at 11th and Clay streets outside the Downtown hospital, where Officer Turner remains in critical but stable condition. Officer Turner is 31-year veteran of the Richmond Police Department. Authorities say that during the incident last Friday, Officer Turner and 20-year-old Tamar X. Harris exchanged gunfire and both were injured. Mr. Harris has been charged with aggravated assault and using a firearm in the commission of a felony. He also is in critical condition at VCU Medical Center.

Richmond Free Press

January 8-10, 2015 A5

Local News

David Hicks headed for judgeship? By Jeremy M. Lazarus

For the past six years, David M. Hicks has been a key figure in the administration of Mayor Dwight C. Jones. But the mayor apparently is about to lose his senior policy adviser and trouble-shooter. Sources have told the Free Press that Mr. Hicks is headed to a new role in city government — as a judge in Richmond’s General District Court. Mr. Hicks, not surprisingly, has not responded to several Free Press requests for comment. However, several key General Assembly sources have told the Free Press that Mr. Hicks is a leading candidate to fill a pending court vacancy. According to them, the vacancy would be created by the elevation of current General District Court Judge Phillip L. Hairston to succeed Judge Melvin R. Hughes Jr., who is retiring from the city Circuit Court bench after more than 30 years. Judge Hughes is required to step down because he has reached the state’s mandatory retirement age of 70 — and Judge Hairston, a 10-year veteran of the lower court, is the legislature’s top choice

Investiture for new chief justice Jan. 8 Justice Donald W. Lemons will become the new chief justice of the Virginia Supreme Court on Thursday, Jan. 8. The investiture ceremony, which is open to the public, is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. in the courtroom on the fifth floor of the Supreme Court Building at 100 N. 9th St. in Downtown. The 65-yearold jurist has served on the court since 2000. He earned undergraduate and law degrees from the Justice Lemons University of Virginia, and previously served on the Richmond Circuit Court and the Virginia Court of Appeals. He will take over from former Chief Justice Cynthia D. Kinzer, the first woman selected as chief justice. She retired from the court last year. The term as chief justice is four years.

to succeed him, the sources said. That would open the door for Mr. Hicks, 54, to fill the seat of Judge Hairston. As one source put it, “I think it is fair to say that both Republicans and Democrats agree that Mr. Hicks has the demeanor, temperament and experience that is required to be a judge.” Mr. Hicks’ election to a judgeship would put an end to rumors that he might consider running for mayor in 2016, when Mayor Mr. Hicks Jones’ second term ends. His departure, though, would be a blow to the mayor, who has counted on Mr. Hicks for advice and assistance since he was elected to his first term in 2008. Mr. Hicks early on established himself as the go-to guy on policy matters for those trying to get to the mayor. He was once described as the mayor’s “only real fighting spirit at City Hall.” Along with advising the mayor, Mr. Hicks also has served as interim director of at least two problem departments that needed

Old Armstrong ownership still an issue By Jeremy M. Lazarus

velopment officer, Peter Chapman, told the board The vacant East End that the city needed ownerbuilding that once housed ship of Armstrong in order Armstrong High School to apply for a $30 million still belongs to Richmond federal grant to assist with Public Schools, it was the redevelopment of the learned this week. school property and of The fact that formal ownCreighton Court, where anership of the 62-year-old other 1,200 apartments and building has not been transhouses are envisioned. ferred to the city appears to “We need to show site be a potential roadblock to control,” said Mr. Chapplans for new housing on the man, who has since taken a site — the first step toward An arson in 2012 damaged the old Armstrong building. similar job in Norfolk. replacing Creighton Court, one of the city’s control of the surplus building in 2005, a The deed transfer remains on hold year after Armstrong and John F. Kennedy because Mayor Jones’ administration aplargest public housing communities. This week, the City Planning Commis- High School merged, with the Kennedy parently has failed to meet at least one of sion gave a thumbs-up to a plan from the building renamed Armstrong to honor the the conditions outlined in the resolution administration of Mayor Dwight C. Jones to heritage of one of the oldest black high the board passed. clear the brick structure for mixed-income schools in Virginia. The most important condition: The city But the School Board has not yet trans- must provide the School Board with a development of 300 apartments and homes, some of which would be used for reloca- ferred the deed to the city, despite pass- written commitment “to market all school ing a resolution authorizing its chairman, properties previously declared surplus.” A tion of Creighton residents. However, nothing was mentioned at Donald L. Coleman, to do so. city ordinance requires proceeds of such The board voted 7-1 to approve the deed sales be set aside for school system use. Monday’s meeting about the ownership of the old building at 1611 N. 31st St. that transfer Oct. 20 after hearing pleas from city Both Grant Neely, the mayor’s chief of once bore the name of Civil War Gen. officials. The resolution also included the staff, and Lee Downey, who has replaced Samuel Chapman Armstrong, founder of transfer of the deed to the vacant Whitcomb Mr. Chapman, said Monday that they were Court Elementary School building Hampton University. unaware there was any question about the At the time, the city’s then chief de- ownership of the old Armstrong property. The city was granted management and

Mosby new council president Continued from A1

waste time and energy and we’ll be left behind by world cities that blow past us.” She said Richmond needs to recognize that the competition is cities such as Boston, New York and London, and the city needs to work with the governor and “our partners,” Henrico and Chesterfield counties, to realize the area’s potential. In his remarks, Mr. Hilbert, a potential mayoral candidate in 2016, thanked his wife, Shiela Mandt, and pledged to keep a focus on fighting crime, improving schools and updating streets and other infrastructure. And most of all, with all the positive things going in Richmond, “we need to make sure they lead to expanding opportunity for all,” said Mr. Hilbert, who works full time on housing initiatives for the Virginia Housing and Development Authority. As part of the leadership makeover, council also approved changes to leadership of its stand-

overhauls, Justice Services and Social Services. Among other things, he led the renovation and successful reopening of the Juvenile Detention Center, once a huge trouble spot for the mayor, and was heavily involved in creating diversion programs to reduce overcrowding in the city’s jail. After the Department of Social Services came under fire for failing to protect vulnerable children, the mayor installed Mr. Hicks as interim director in February 2014 to lead the agency’s turnaround. Meanwhile, Mr. Hicks has retained the mayor’s ear on major projects, including the stalled plan to move the city’s minor league baseball stadium to Shockoe Bottom. A New Jersey native and University of Virginia Law School graduate, Mr. Hicks would bring substantial legal experience to the bench. He has been in private practice and also served as Richmond’s commonwealth’s attorney for 12 years. In 1993, he won his first election as the city’s chief prosecutor by ousting his former boss, then incumbent Commonwealth’s Attorney and now Delegate Joseph D. “Joe” Morrissey, in the Democratic primary. Mr. Hicks was re-elected twice before stepping down in December 2005.

ing committees requested by Ms. Mosby. Among the changes: Ms. Robertson was named chairwoman of the Land Use, Housing and Transportation Committee. The previous chair, Jonathan T. Baliles, 1st District, was named chairman of the Government Operations Committee, replacing Cynthia I. Newbille, 7th District, who took over the chairmanship of Education and Human Services. Mr. Hilbert, who had led the Education and Human Services Committee, said he gave up the post because of his new position as vice president. Kathy C. Graziano, 4th District, who nominated Ms. Mosby as council president, will remain the Finance Committee chairwoman, and Reva M. Trammell, 8th District, retained the chairmanship of Public Safety. Ms. Mosby said she asked Mr. Samuels to let her know if he wanted to lead a committee and moved on when he did not respond. Mr. Samuels said he left such decisions up to his successor.

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Petersburg area lawyer Joseph E. Preston celebrates with supporters Tuesday night after being declared the winner of the 63rd District special election to the Virginia House of Delegates.

Preston wins 63rd House District Continued from A1

won by a 4-1 margin. He received 1,213 votes, or 78.6 percent. Mr. Jones received only 285 votes, or 18.5 percent. Another 45 votes were cast as write-ins in the majority-black district that includes Petersburg and portions of Hopewell and the counties of Chesterfield, Dinwiddie and Prince George. Mr. Preston was able to run a lean campaign. He reported raising only about $6,000, including a personal contribution of $1,325. Mr. Jones did not report raising any money. Mr. Preston will need to run again in November to gain a full two-year term.

In another special election, Democrat Kathleen Murphy of McLean captured the 34th House District seat in Northern Virginia that previously was held by a Republican. She won the special election to replace Republican Barbara Comstock, who won the 10th Congressional District election in November 2014. Ms. Murphy won 51 percent of the 12,500 votes cast, narrowly beating GOP candidate Craig Parisot in a race on which both sides spent more than $400,000. The district has 61,000 registered voters. Her win represents a rare Democratic victory in recent years for a previously Republican-held seat in the House of Delegates.

Joe is a tireless worker, fighter, and voice for the underdog. We need him fighting for us in Richmond. Vote Joe Morrissey to be YOUR Delegate! Special Election on January 13, 2015 Paid for and authorized by Friends of Joe Morrissey

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Editorial Page

January 8-10, 2015

Day of reckoning In public life, little is more despicable than a politician who breaches the public trust. In recent days, Virginians have been confronted with two egregious and shameful examples in former Gov. Bob McDonnell and Delegate Joseph D. “Joe” Morrissey of Henrico. Republican Gov. McDonnell, 60, was sentenced to two years in federal prison on 11 felony corruption charges of accepting more than $177,000 in personal loans, luxury vacations and gifts, including a Rolex and golf equipment and fees, from a wealthy businessman in exchange for special treatment for the man’s dietary supplement company by state government. Democratic Delegate Morrissey, a 57-year-old attorney with a sad history of skirting and bending the law to his wishes, faced up to 41 years in state prison on four felonies and a misdemeanor involving his sexual relationship with a 17-year-old receptionist in his law office before he took an Alford plea to a single misdemeanor count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. He now is campaigning as an independent for election during the hours he spends on work release outside of his cell in Henrico County Jail East. Meanwhile, the girl, who wasn’t even old enough to vote at the time, is now pregnant. The pathetic behavior of both men has raised somber questions among Republicans and Democrats alike who are searching for better tools to bar Virginia’s doors to public office against sociopaths and any future aberrant behavior. We applaud federal Judge James R. Spencer for following the law and courageously sentencing Gov. McDonnell to prison despite 400 letters and testimony from Gov. McDonnell’s friends in high places, including former Govs. L. Douglas Wilder and Tim Kaine, asking for preferential treatment and leniency. The sordid trial testimony alone was astounding, with revelations of the extent of the audacious hubris and greed of the governor, his wife, Maureen, and their children. Then the former governor, his children and sister turned on Maureen, blaming her for the debacle. The string of events only further underscored the family’s hypocrisy and dysfunction. How can the public be made whole from this embarrassing episode? For Gov. McDonnell, a Roman Catholic who took pre-trial refuge in the home of a priest in Richmond, penance will take more than a score of Hail Marys and Our Fathers. It will take hard time in a federal penitentiary for starters because he cannot pay restitution to the citizens of the Commonwealth. We implore the members of the General Assembly to quickly enact legislation modeled after Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s Executive Order No. 2 but expanded to cap all gifts to all state lawmakers, government officials and their family members at $100. And we call on state lawmakers to establish a permanent state ethics commission as a watchdog. Virginia is one of only eight states that doesn’t have external oversight of their ethics laws through an ethics commission established by law or state constitution, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. As sickening as the McDonnell affair has been for Virginians, Delegate Morrissey’s debauched conduct has been even more nauseating. To begin with, his illicit conduct involved a minor whose education and career plans have been derailed by a public morass and pregnancy. He claims to have taken a plea deal to spare her and her family the embarrassment of a trial, but continues to use her to protect his political hide and hold on to his seat in the General Assembly. Detailed letters atypical of a teenager and written over her signature were sent to the Richmond Free Press, the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus and the Times-Dispatch. The letter to the Free Press accused her own father of crimes, while proclaiming Delegate Morrissey’s innocence. He has played everyone from the governor on down, saying he would step down from his seat representing the 74th District, but then turning around and running for it as an independent. The Jan. 13 special election will be held on the same day he officially steps down. Unbelievably, Delegate Morrissey claimed the victim’s 24-year-old former lesbian lover hacked into his and the victim’s cell phones and sent the more than 80 text messages, including nude pictures of the victim, that are central to the criminal charges. It’s not love when a man with three children by different women forwards your naked pictures to his buddies and texts friends detailing in great obscenity where and how you literally hooked up. We also point out that if Joe Morrissey were a black man and the receptionist a white girl, he would be under the jail now, instead of on a three-month work release — aka the bed-and-breakfast plan — at Henrico County Regional Jail East in New Kent County. As it is, Delegate Morrissey is nearly 60 years old. We expect him to act like an adult and to show restraint, despite the people who want to blame the victim. In a district where the majority of voters are AfricanAmerican, have we been abused or ignored so long that we think Joe Morrissey’s brand of politics is in our best interest? Do we really believe that because he writes us congratulatory letters, sympathy letters or invites us to a barbecue or party in his backyard he cares about our interests and is representing us well? Do we really believe he is the only person who can represent us and our interests in the General Assembly? Why would we want someone who bends the rules, takes advantage of our girls and young women and plays everyone for his own gain is deserving of our support? The Democratic Party has stumbled over itself trying to keep him off the ballot, possibly violating the federal Voting Rights Act. Disturbingly, the party doesn’t give the voters of the district enough credit for having the judgment and capability of voting him out of office, nor does the party trust the voters to get rid of him. If Delegate Morrissey isn’t kept out of office, the public can put pressure on the governor and the legislature to expel him from office. It would be the first expulsion of a state lawmaker since 1876, but it would be worth it. Yes, Joe fights. But Joe fights mostly for Joe. And the hard-working, honest and upstanding people of the district deserve far better.

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Ed Brooke should get his due Sandwiched between the deaths of former New York Gov. Mario Cuomo and popular ESPN sportscaster Stuart Scott, the passing of former U.S. Sen. Edward W. Brooke III of Massachusetts at age 95 did not get nearly the attention it deserved. Though two AfricanAmericans were elected to the U.S. Senate during Reconstruction by the Mississippi legislature — Hiram R. Revels and Blanche K. Bruce, both Republicans — Brooke was the first black man elected to the upper chamber by popular vote, beginning his term in 1967. What made his election remarkable at the time was that a black Republican Episcopalian could be elected statewide in Massachusetts, a predominantly Democratic and Catholic state with a black population of less than 3 percent. It would be another 25 years before another AfricanAmerican — Carol Moseley Braun of Illinois — would win a U.S. Senate seat in 1992. Prior to his election to the Senate, Sen. Brooke served two terms as attorney general of Massachusetts. When he came to Washington, he declined to join the Congressional Black Caucus and told Time magazine: “I do not intend to be a national leader of the Negro people. I intend to do my job as a senator from Massachusetts.” While doing his job, Sen. Brooke showed that — as did several black Republicans who

would later follow him in public service, including Assistant Secretary of Labor Arthur Fletcher in the Nixon administration and William T. Coleman Jr., secretary of transportation under President Gerald Ford — he could be a black Republican without selling out his principles or abandoning the fight for civil rights.

George Curry When Barry Goldwater won the GOP’s 1964 presidential nomination, for example, Sen. Brooke, the state attorney general, refused to be photographed with Sen. Goldwater or endorse the Arizona ultraconservative. In the 1966 book, “The Challenge of Change: Crisis in Our Two-Party System,” he asked, rhetorically: “Where are our plans for a New Deal or a Great Society?” Though fellow Republican Richard Nixon was in the White House, Sen. Brooke opposed President Nixon’s attempts to abolish the Office of Economic Opportunity and the Job Corps and to weaken the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. And when President Nixon nominated Clement Haynsworth and Harrold Carswell to the U.S. Supreme Court, Sen. Brooke was part of a bipartisan coalition that blocked the appointment of the two nominees who were considered hostile to civil rights. On Nov. 4, 1973, Sen. Brooke became the first Republican to call for Richard Nixon’s resignation after the famous “Saturday night massacre” that took place when the president ordered the firing of Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox

after Mr. Cox issued a subpoena for copies of President Nixon’s taped conversations recorded in the Oval Office. Sen. Brooke assumed an offensive posture as well, particularly on housing issues. He co-sponsored the Fair Housing Act of 1968, which prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion or ethnicity. It was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson a week after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He continued to work on strengthening the law and, in 1969, Congress passed the “Brooke Amendment” limiting public housing tenants’ out-ofpocket rent expenditure to 25 percent of the resident’s income, a percentage that has since increased to 30 percent. With the federal Voting Rights Act up for renewal in 1975, Sen. Brooke engaged in an “extended debate” with Sen. John Stennis, R-Miss., on the Senate floor that resulted in the landmark measure being extended and expanded. He also was part of the team of legislators who retained Title IX that guarantees equal education to females and the Equal Credit Act, a measure that gave married women the right to have credit in their own name. In 1967, Sen. Brooke served on the 11-member President’s Commission on Civil Disorders, better known as the Kerner Commission, which was established by President Johnson to investigate the causes of the 1967 race riots and to provide recommendations for the future. At various points during his career, Sen. Brooke was at odds with civil rights leaders and

GOP rebukes Duke, not voters Just when I thought David Duke had gone the way of the Betamax, buggy whips and record stores, the former Ku Klux Klan leader, Republican politician and jailbird has re-emerged to haunt the new Republicancontrolled Congress. The new House Republican whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana apologized for an honest “error in judgment” that led him to speak in 2002 to the European-American Unity and Rights Organization, a white nationalist group founded by Mr. Duke. Rep. Scalise, a state legislator at that time, said he didn’t remember much about the event except that he spoke against a major tax proposal and knew nothing of a Mr. Duke connection. Had he known that they were a bunch of Duke-related white supremacists, he says he never would have appeared. Kenny Knight, a neighbor of Rep. Scalise and a longtime political adviser to Mr. Duke, complicated the story in two conflicting interviews. He confirmed Rep. Scalise’s appearance in a Washington Post interview, then partly backpedaled the next day, telling the New Orleans TimesPicayune that Rep. Scalise actu-

ally spoke to a local and unrelated civic group two hours before the Duke group’s event. Did Rep. Scalise apologize for

Clarence Page an appearance he never made? No problem. By then House Speaker John Boehner and other House leaders had given Rep. Scalise a pass for his “error in judgment,” as Rep. Boehner put it, noting that the Louisiana lawmaker had apologized. Still the controversy raises an intriguing question that haunts his party’s prospects nationwide: What does a Republican have to do to get elected in places like Louisiana, where David Duke’s conservatism sounds mainstream, as long as Mr. Duke’s name isn’t mentioned. Rep. Scalise has a long record of blasting Mr. Duke without condemning all of Mr. Dukes’ views. In a quote widely requoted in recent days, Stephanie Grace, a political reporter and columnist with The Advocate of Baton Rouge, recalls him telling her he was “like David Duke without the baggage,” meaning he supported the same policy ideas but didn’t share the same feelings about minorities. Rep. Scalise took the same better-than-Duke pose in 1999 when he and Mr. Duke were considering a race for Congress. “Duke has proved that he can’t

get elected, and that’s the first and most important thing,” Rep. Scalise told the Capitol Hill newspaper Roll Call. Rep. Scalise is hardly alone with that approach. Ever since Mr. Duke ditched his Klan robes in the 1970s, tailored his rhetoric to play the white victim card and switched from the Democrats to the Grand Old Party in 1988, mainstream Republicans have tried to lose Mr. Duke but not his voters. As much as he is denounced by other Republicans, some have purchased his mailing lists and phone lists and, even if they do not seek his open endorsement, they would rather not have him openly campaigning against them. Consider the position in which this leaves Rep. Scalise. The trust he has generated with Tea Party conservatives in the House, while working cordially with other members, made him a top choice to win the whip post in June. He has been a valuable ally to help Rep. Boehner unify his GOP caucus and keep his own job safe, barring further embarrassing disclosures. But the re-emergence of Mr. Duke in mainstream GOP news does nothing to help the party reach its larger goal of broadening its base to attract a more diverse electorate in presidential election years. So far the party has found it easier to rebuke Mr. Duke than to risk losing his voters. ©2015 Tribune Media Services Inc.

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liberals. As attorney general, he opposed the NAACP’s call for a boycott of Boston’s public schools to protest the city’s de facto segregation, saying the law required students to stay in school. In the Senate, he opposed a program to recruit teachers to work in disadvantaged communities and opposed amending Senate rules to make filibusters against civil rights legislation easier to terminate. Sen. Brooke also faced personal health challenges, including being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002. He underwent a double mastectomy and was declared cancer free. He spoke publicly about the illness, which strikes about 1,500 men each year, a disproportionate number of them African-American. In his 2006 autobiography, “Bridging The Divide: My Life,” Sen. Brooke said, “My fervent expectation is that sooner rather than later, the United States Senate will more closely reflect the rich diversity of this great country.” Throughout his life, Sen. Brooke did that exceptionally well. George E. Curry is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service.

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January 8-10, 2015

Letters to the Editor/Commentary

Capitalism fails as social policy

In our country, capitalism serves not only as the economic structure through which we work, but also the socio-political structure through which we live. By definition, capitalism signifies the protection and glorification of the individual. A person’s rights and well-being are celebrated over the well-being of the collective. It means complete deregulation of the individual in the

free market, a market that does not account for difference in information, access and cost/ability of entry into the market. We use these economic principles to justify our national social welfare policies. Until we, as a nation, recognize the ideological and pragmatic failure of capitalism as a social policy; until we stop using pure short-term, economic cost-benefit as a metric for standard of

living; until we eradicate policies in education, health, housing and diplomacy that celebrate and systematically encourage class division, profit as a motive, the role of marketing in creating (false) demand, all of which, in turn, discourage the longterm sustainability of any social welfare policies like minimum wage, Social Security and profit tax — then we will always be slaves. Always. I do not know what our nation’s future holds,

but I do know that access to information through technology in this era of globalization will force our nation to look earnestly and honestly at our racist, oligarchist, ineffective social and political structure. It has not, is not, will not work for us. Never did and never will. LAUREN WINSTON Durham, N.C.

There’s still time to make a difference

America is trying to be the most wonderful country in the world, but that is getting harder. People fear those different from themselves. White men shoot unarmed black youths. Some walk around with assault rifles slung over their shoulders or pistols hidden in their purses. Children find guns belonging to their parents and accidentally shoot the parents or themselves. Ku Klux Klan Grand Dragons wear white hoods and preach bigotry. Some First People of this nation still are not recognized. Women don’t have to wear headscarves.

They are battered where it doesn’t show. Their only right guaranteed in our Constitution is the right to vote. The “Almighty Dollar” is God, and “Big Money” trumps all. Politicians kowtow to the rich and blame President Obama for everything wrong. Our loved ones are sent to fight wars in faraway countries, while we at home wait to hold and heal the broken, bloody brains and bodies that come back to us. Gay marriage is recognized in some states, and the Boy Scouts welcome gay youths.

Some lands and waters have not yet been polluted by fracking and drilling. Trees and flowers still grow. People fly airplane missions to rescue animals after natural disasters, and children on their birthdays ask for money for the homeless rather than gifts for themselves. Many throw buckets of ice water over their heads, walk in relays all night or run marathons to raise money to fight diseases. Protesters articulate what they feel is wrong and what should be done. They speak, scream, chant, sing and carry banners. They lie down

on highways, sit on Capitol steps and march for miles through cities and towns. A lot happened in the nation in 2014. Personally, my grandson was born. My son became a college vice president. I met President Obama, attended a holiday party at the White House and rode the inaugural train from Budapest to Tehran. Often I join the protesters. In 2015, I still want to do something that will make the world better because I was here. FRANCES BROADDUS-CRUTCHFIELD Goochland

‘The task is still desegregation’ More than any other season in the church, I am drawn to faith by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The memory of the man and his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement calls out for all of us to do something. The question, however, is what? Where do we go from here? We can celebrate from where we’ve come and those who helped get us here. We can reap

the rewards of our ability to cash in on their — and our — struggle and sacrifice. But isn’t there more to do? Dr. King challenges us to see that the unimaginable is possible. God is still in control. We are called to be a part of the solution. We are called to be fearless. What is the end of Dr. King’s dream? The answer to that may help us see in which direction to walk. The task is still desegregation.

Throughout society and in the church, we huddle in our own groups and look with suspicion on those unlike us. I believe each church should begin to look at the possibility of a more inclusive congregation. This is what we are doing at the historically Caucasian church I pastor in Highland Springs. The church needs to lead the way to replace the void of peace with the commotion of justice

and inclusiveness. We need to begin to seek, demand, impose and expect our churches to be racially integrated and to view those that aren’t as a theological oddity. The Rev. Douglas E. Crockett Highland Springs The writer is the pastor of Highland Springs United Methodist Church.

Lessons from the Wilder years

It is historically important to revisit the legacy of former Gov. L. Douglas Wilder, a Virginia gentleman who rose to the pinnacle of Virginia politics by acting on the belief that the tenets of the U.S. Constitution were meant for him — despite the racial odds against him. As we look toward the 25th anniversary of the Jan. 13, 1990, inauguration of Mr. Wilder, America’s first electedAfrican-American governor, there are crucial parts of the Wilder legacy that should be amplified for the lessons they teach us for our future. Those are the parts that specifically illustrate that Mr. Wilder’s racial legacy was far more than just symbolic. His strategy for election and his actions as governor tore down vestiges Terone of racism that no doubt will impact us all far Green into the future. A highlight is that nail-biter of an election. We recall that only a few days before Election Day, Nov. 8, 1989, polls showed Mr. Wilder, a Democrat, 9 to 10 percentage points ahead of his opponent, Republican J. Marshall Coleman. But Mr. Wilder repeatedly encouraged the electorate to not believe those polls, and, instead, just vote. He said, “The only poll that I believe is when the polls are closed.” Sure enough, despite predictions of a wide margin of victory, Mr. Wilder won the election by less than 1 percentage point. Simply put, this win was because people pressed and voted. Lesson One: Mr. Wilder’s voice of encouragement to vote must resonate throughout the 21st century. The results of that election say to us now, that in a day when a dismantling of the federal Voting Rights Act of 1964 has begun and new voting laws across the nation are virtually amounting to what some deem as voter intimidation and voter suppression, our biggest enemy is voter apathy. The former governor is quick to remind that he never used race — only his qualifications — in his campaigns. Notwithstanding, he is to be credited for using his political power to open doors and tear down vestiges of racism where his predecessors had remained lax. Whether by direct action or in spirit, Mr. Wilder, in large part,

changed the course of Virginia’s future by using his power to not only break the ceiling for himself, but for others who are coming behind. From the Old Dominion to what many then called the “New Dominion,” he prepared the nation for progress. One need not look far to find the documentation of his work against racism. They are well chronicled in the media, especially in the Black Press. Who can forget July 23, 1992, the day the Richmond Free

Commentary Press reported on its front page that the 149th Fighter Squadron of the 192nd Fighter Group of the Virginia Air National Guard had Confederate flag emblems emblazoned on its planes and uniforms since 1947. On the same day that the newspaper hit the stands, Mr. Wilder, in his gubernatorial role as commanderin-chief of the Virginia Air Guard, issued an executive order commanding the Guard to replace the emblem “with the flag of the United States of America.” He didn’t stop there. When African-American Sgt. Leon Brooks, who had been outspoken against the antiquated flag emblems, was fired from the Air Guard “not for cause,” Mr. Wilder reinstated the airman. Lesson Two: When those of us — whether by experience or observation — know of wrongs that we have the power to correct, it is our responsibility to use that power for the good of all. The key is that the imprints made by our steps must never solely be symbolic. They must be tangible actions to tear down the vestiges of past evils, including racism. The legacy of Mr. Wilder is one that inspired children beyond their imaginations. As governor, he sometimes told a story about a child in a classroom where he was speaking. He quoted the child, who was struggling with such a historical figure being in his presence. Mr. Wilder said the child repeatedly asked the question, “… But, haven’t you been dead?” Chuckling, the governor said he finally realized that the only real historical figures that this child and most children had encountered were dead and in the history books.

And so it goes that this graduate of not one, but two historically black colleges — Virginia Union and Howard universities — has no doubt inspired millions of children, young adults and others from every walk of life to follow in his footsteps by realizing their dreams, regardless of the odds against them. Lesson Three: We must delete the barriers. For far too long, barriers between old and young, rich and poor, black and white, among other differences, have separated us as a nation. In that regard, the election, inauguration and service of Mr. Wilder has set a blueprint for this nation for achieving freedom, justice and equality. Perhaps the best synopsis of these lessons can be drawn from his inaugural address 25 years ago: “If these words about freedom are to be heard at all today, I hope they will be heard by the young people of this Commonwealth. I want them to know that oppression can be lifted; that discrimination can be eliminated; that poverty need not be binding; that disability can be overcome; and that offer of opportunity in a free society carries with it the requirement of hard work, the rejection of drugs and other false highs, and a willingness to work with others whatever their color or national origin. We have come far, but we have far to go. We have done much, but we have much to do.”

ELECTION NOTICE TO CITY OF RICHMOND RESIDENTS A SPECI A L ELE CTIO N FOR MEMBE R, VIRGI NI A HO USE O F DELEG A TES, 7 4 TH DIS TRI CT W ILL BE HE LD O N TUES DAY, JANUA R Y 1 3, 20 15 The only City of Richmond precinct involved in this election is precinct 301. The polls will be open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM Persons interested in having their name appear on the ballot for this special election must file documents required by the Code of Virginia by 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, December 23, 2014. Candidate filing information is available at www.sbe.virginia.gov and in the Office of the General Registrar for the City of Richmond, room 105, City Hall, 900 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia.

PHOTO ID IS NOW REQUIRED AT THE POLLS.

Voters who do not have Photo ID will have to vote a provisional ballot. Information about what is an acceptable form of photo ID and what to do if you do not have one is available online at www.sbe.virginia.gov and in any General Registrar’s office.

THE DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE OR UPDATE YOUR REGISTRATION FOR THIS ELECTION IS Tuesday, January 6, 2015 YOU CAN NOW REGISTER TO VOTE OR UPDATE YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION ONLINE AT WWW.SBE.VIRGINIA.GOV. Register in person in room 105, City Hall, 900 East Broad Street between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, except holidays. Applications are also online at www.sbe.virginia.gov, at all city post offices and libraries, and DMV. The Office of the General Registrar will mail applications upon request. Voter registration applications must either be postmarked or received in the Office of the General Registrar by the deadline.

THE DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR A MAIL ABSENTEE BALLOT IS: Tuesday, January 6, 2015 Applications for absentee ballots through the mail must be received by the Office of the General Registrar by 5 PM on the deadline date. The Office of the General Registrar will also be open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, January 10, 2015 for absentee voting for the special election. The deadline to apply and vote an absentee ballot in person is 5:00 PM, Saturday, January 10, 2015, except in the case of certain emergencies or military personnel. Applications are available online at www.sbe.virginia.gov. Call the Office of the General Registrar at (804) 6465950 for more information

Richmond Free Press

A8 January 8-10, 2015

Sports Stories by Fred Jeter

VUU’s Davis named to two All-America teams Charles Davis III began preparations for the 2014 football season as a little-known Virginia Union University backup, scratching for more playing time. He finished the season as an All-American safety. “It shows what hard work and strong character can do,” says Panthers’ coach Mark James. In a classic Clark Kent-becomes-Superman metamorphosis, Davis led the team in interceptions with six and in tackles with 83. He also was a ringleader in helping VUU reverse its record, from 3-7 in 2013 to 7-3 in 2014. His work did not go unnoticed. The Riverview, Fla., native has since been named to the Black Athlete Sports Network and USA College Football All-America teams for NCAA Division II. Prior to his All-America recognition, Davis was first-team All-CIAA, placing second in the conference in interceptions and fourth in tackles. And he’s not finished, James insists. “Charles will be playing somewhere (in the pro ranks) next season,” said James. “He’s getting some looks from San Diego (NFL) and a

lot of Canadian teams. At the least, he’ll be playing in the Arena league.” Davis drew raves Dec. 6 at the National Bowl in Miami, Fla., where he spurred his team to a 41-28 victory in front of scouts representing some 40 pro squads. After two years at a California junior college, Davis was recruited to VUU in 2013 by the previous coaching staff headed by Michael Bailey. Relegated to sub duty, he rarely saw the field on game days. It was during the period in which James was serving as interim coach that Charles Davis III everything turned around. “Charles came to my office and asked me, ‘What do I have to do to become a better player?’ ” James’ answer was “close your mouth and open your ears … and work harder than anyone else.”

Lanier, Wilson among favorite NFLers with local start Seattle quarterback and Richmonder Russell Wilson will be in the national spotlight Saturday as the reigning Super Bowl champion Seahawks begin their NFL playoffs. The Collegiate School Class of 2007 graduate has blossomed into a full-fledged pro celebrity following college stops at North Carolina State University and the University of Wisconsin. On the gridiron, he has been a fan favorite with his passing, running and sharp decision making. Off the field, Wilson has been in TV commercials for Pepsi, Nike, Microsoft, Duracell and United Way and appeared on the David Letterman Show as well as the covers of Sports Illustrated, ESPN the Magazine, Men’s Health and Men’s Fitness. Wilson has become a household name and familiar handsome face. So how does Wilson, in his third pro season, stack up with the best ever, Richmond-born athletes who went on to earn NFL acclaim? High, as a Super Bowl champ. But because he’s in the early stages of his career, Wilson gets an “incomplete” for now on his all-time grade. Excluding Wilson — and just for fun — here’s a look at one sports writer’s “Top 10” of NFL players hailing from local high schools. NFL Hall of Famer Willie Lanier is an easy, clear-cut choice as Richmond’s best-in-history NFL stalwart — at least for now. But the book remains open, and the Seahawks’ Wilson is closing fast. Listed are players, their high schools and colleges and a snapshot of their NFL resumes: No. 10, Ray Easterling: Huguenot High School and Collegiate; University of Richmond; Atlanta Falcons, 1972-1979; ringleader of the 1977 “Gritz Blitz” defense that held foes to a then record low 129 points; 83game totals of 13 interceptions, six fumble recoveries. No. 9, Brian Washington: Highland Springs High School; University of Nebraska; between 1988 and 1996, played safety with Cleveland, New York Jets and Kansas City; accumulated 300 tackles and 27 interceptions, with four touchdown returns, in 124 games.

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Willie Lanier

Charlotte at Seattle, 8:15 p.m., Fox Sunday, Jan. 11 Dallas as Green Bay, 1:05 p.m., Fox Indianapolis at Denver, 4:40 p.m., CBS

No. 8, Michael Robinson: Varina High School; Penn State University; between 2006-2013, the fullback played 115 games with San Francisco and Seattle; caught a 7-yard pass from Wilson in last year’s Super Bowl; career totals of 422 yards rushing, 751 receiving. No. 7, William Henderson: Thomas Dale High School; University of North Carolina; the durable fullback for the Green Bay Packers provided firm blocking for quarterback Brett Favre from 1995 to 2005; in 188 games, caught 320 passes for 2,409 yard and 14 touchdowns; rushed for 426 yards and five touchdowns. No. 6, Barty Smith: Douglas Freeman High School; University of Richmond; between 1974 and 1980, the Green Bay running back had 1,942 yards rushing with 18 touchdowns, and 120 receptions for 979 yards and three touchdowns. No. 5, Rudi Johnson: Thomas Dale High School; Auburn University; in 95 games with Cincinnati and Detroit from 1997 to 2005, amassed 5,975 yards rushing, 676 yards receiving and scored 49 touchdowns; All-Pro in 2004. No. 4, Darren Sharper: Hermitage High School; College of William & Mary; this defensive back had 943 tackles and 63 interceptions with 11 touchdown returns between 1997 and 2010, with Green Bay, Minnesota and New Orleans; five-time Pro Bowl selection. No. 3, Damien Woody: Patrick Henry High School; Boston College; primarily a center snapping to quarterback Tom Brady, he helped New England to Super Bowl championships in 2001 and 2003; starred

Russell Wilson

from 1999 to 2010 with the Patriots, Detroit and Jets; Pro Bowl, 2002; played in 173 games with 166 starts. No. 2, Ken Willard: Varina High School; University of North Carolina; this running back accumulated 6,105 yards rushing and 2,184 receiving between 1965 and 1974 with San Francisco and St. Louis; the four-time Pro Bowler scored 52 touchdowns. No. 1, Willie Lanier: Maggie Walker High School; Morgan State University; a member of NFL Hall of Fame, the bruising linebacker known as “Mr. Contact” had 27 interceptions, 18 fumble recoveries and was an eight-time All-Pro with Kansas City, from 1967 to 1977; he starred in KC’s Super Bowl win over Minnesota in 1970. Other notables are Robert Pratt, St. Christopher’s School; University of North Carolina; NFL 1964-1975; Billy McMullen, Henrico High School; University of Virginia; NFL 2003-2009; Cornelius Johnson, Virginia Randolph High School; Virginia Union University; NFL 1968-1973; Anthony Leonard, Maggie Walker High School; Virginia Union University; NFL 1976-1979; David Terrell, Huguenot High School; University of Michigan; NFL 2001-2005; Corey Smith, John Marshall High School; North Carolina State University; NFL 2002-2008; Erron Kinney, Patrick Henry High School; University of Florida; NFL 2000-2005; Ernest Wilford, Armstrong High School; Virginia Tech; NFL 2004-2010; Shawn Barber, Hermitage High School; University of Richmond; NFL 19982007; Jason Snelling, L.C. Bird High School, University of Virginia, NFL 2007-2013; and Ed Perry, Highland Springs High School; James Madison University; NFL 1997-2005.

Grant helps Buckeyes to Jan.12 final

An athlete with local ties will be smack dab in the middle of what is arguably the most ballyhooed college football game of all time. When Ohio State University faces the University of Oregon in the inaugural College Football Playoff National Championship on Jan. 12, Curtis Grant will man the critical inside linebacker slot for OSU. Grant, a 6-foot-3, 240-pound Ohio State senior who graduated from Henrico’s Hermitage High School, led the Buckeyes with 10 tackles in their 42-35 semifinal victory over the University of Alabama on Jan. 1 in New Orleans. For the season, Grant ranks fifth on the team with 63 tackles. These are exciting times for college football. ESPN has announced more than 28 million fans viewed the OSU-Alabama and Oregon-Florida State University semifinals on New Year’s Day. Oregon routed Florida State 59-20 in Pasadena, Calif., and features Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Marcus Mariota. This is the first year there has been a true playoff system for NCAA Division I top tier football. Previously, the national title was awarded by a subjective voting system and by the controversial Bowl Championship

Bill Haber/Associated Press

Alabama running back Derrick Henry (27) runs toward Ohio State linebacker Curtis Grant (14) in the Sugar Bowl.

Series. Structured playoffs have been in effect since 1973 for NCAA Divisions II and III, and since 1978 for the Football Championship Series, formerly known as 1-AA. Wearing No. 14, Grant struggled with injuries as a freshman and sophomore before becoming a starter during his junior year. Named defensive captain, Grant was called the “heart and soul of the team” by Ohio State coach Urban Meyer Jan. 3 when the squad was honored during halftime of the OSU-Illinois basketball game in Columbus. Grant is the son of Gloria Grant of Glen Allen and the

late Curtis R. Grant, who died in 2013 at age 54. The elder Grant, a native of Martinsville, was a star defensive end for Virginia Union University football teams in the late 1970s and early 1980s. As a tribute to his deceased father, Curtis Grant alternates wearing inscribed winter stocking caps while away from the action. A gray cap says “RIP Dad,” while a red cap says, “Sun Rise, Sun Set” with the dates his father was born and died. Grant’s career won’t end with the historic game in Texas. He has been invited to play Jan. 17 in the East-West Shrine Bowl

Davis took the advice to heart and, by August, had won the heart of James, who named him team captain and took him as VUU’s representative to the CIAA preseason kickoff banquet. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound Davis maximized his senior year, sparkling on the field and during daily training sessions. “Each day after practice, Charles would run on his own another 10 to 15 minutes,” said James. “He even ran after games. “After our last game (a loss to Virginia State University for the CIAA Northern Division crown), Charles went over to the softball field and did extra running.” Few small colleges can match VUU’s proud tradition of producing ace defensive backs. Previous All-Americans were Anthony Leonard (1975), William Dillon (1980, 1981 and 1982), Paul DeBerry (1991), Ronald Hardage (1999) and Pete Hunter (2001). Former Panthers defensive backs to play in the NFL were Irvin Mallory (1971), Bob Jones (1973 through 1976), Leonard (1976 through 1979), Michael Brim (1988 through 1995) and Hunter (2002 through 2006).

The Virginia Union University Panthers and the Trojans of Virginia State University are going to battle it out once again to determine the king of the court in the 19th Annual Freedom Classic Festival. The festival, slated for Jan. 16 through 18 in Richmond, features a plethora of events, including a fine art sale, drumline competition, spoken word and artist performances, leading to the pinnacle basketball game at the Richmond Coliseum. Tipoff is 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18. VSU defeated VUU earlier this season at the Big Apple Classic at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. The Freedom Classic Festival, which started in 1996, commemorates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with family activities throughout the King Birthday weekend. The 2015 theme: What Are You Doing for Others? Organizers hope people from all walks of life will come together to help serve, strengthen and advance their own communities in the Richmond area. As part of that challenge, local professionals in STEMED fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Entrepreneurship and Design) will talk about their industries and careers at area middle and high schools in the week leading up to the festival. This will be the second year for the program, STEM-ED Connects, to be held in conjunction with the Freedom Classic Festival. The official start of the festival is 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, with the MEGA Mentors Fine Art Benefit and Sale at the Hippodrome Theater, 528 N. 2nd St. in Jackson Ward. Atlanta-based artist Stacey Brown is the host artist for the event. His work, along with that of other national artists, will be on sale. The evening also will feature a silent auction, local jazz band and light hors d’oeuvres. Proceeds will benefit Chesterfield County Public Schools students through the MEGA Mentors program. On Sunday, Jan. 18, the Richmond Coliseum will open at 4 p.m., with the Freedom of Expression Art Exposé from 4:30 p.m. until the game’s start at 7 p.m. The exposé will showcase live bands, spoken word, artist and poetry performances, as well as various vendors. The drumline competition starts at 5 p.m. There also will be a special halftime performance during the basketball game. Tickets for the festival range from $23 to $27. Information and ticket purchase: www.freedomclassicfestival.com.

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Richmond Free Press

January 8-10, 2015

At the Richmond Coliseum Doors Open at 4 PM Freedom of Expression Exposé 4:30 – 7 PM Drumline Competition Presented by McDonald’s 5 PM VUU vs. VSU Tip Off 7 PM

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Richmond Free Press

B2 January 8-10, 2015

Happenings

MLK celebrations slated for area

Ringing in the New Year Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Thousands of people danced, ate, toasted and rang in the New Year at a festive outdoor celebration on Brown’s Island in Downtown. The free community party, called RVA NYE 2015, featured fire dancers, live music and laser lights. The event started 7 p.m. Dec. 31, giving revelers several hours to get ready for the arrival of 2015. Tamere Ross sported blinged out 2015 glasses, while confetti flew and Tracy Evans and Ron Gravely exchanged a New Year’s kiss at the stroke of midnight.

Commemorations of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held by various churches and organizations in the Richmond area. Living the Dream Inc., founded in 1978 by the Richmond Committee of Black Clergy to celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy, kicks off its nearly monthlong celebration with the free Citywide Seniors Celebration at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 14, at Fifth Baptist Church, 1415 W. Cary St. in the West End. Information: Saundra Rollins, (804) 231-9306. “Dr. King fought for justice and we do this to continue what he started and to help his dream eventually be realized,” the Rev. Ricardo Brown, executive director of Living the Dream and co-pastor at Fifth Baptist Church, told the Free Press of the events to honor Dr. King. Faith Community Baptist Church’s 20th anniversary celebration on Dr. King’s birthday, Thursday, Jan. 15, will follow at 7 p.m. Location: 1903 Cool Lane in the East End. Dr. Gina Stewart, pastor at Christ Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tenn., will speak. The celebration continues with the Community Leaders Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 16, at the Claude G. Perkins Living and Learning Center on the campus of Virginia Union University. The featured speaker is George Keith Martin, managing partner of the Richmond office of McGuire Woods law firm and rector of the University of Virginia. Tickets: Lisa Wynn, (804) 342-3938. The Citywide Mass Meeting will be held 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at Cedar Street Baptist Church, 2301 Cedar St. in Church Hill. The Rev. Peter Wherry, pastor of Mayfield Memorial Baptist Church in Charlotte, N.C., is the scheduled guest speaker at the meeting, which is free and open to the public. Information: Rev.

Ricardo Brown, (804) 355-1044. A worship celebration will be 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at Sharon Baptist Church, 22 E. Leigh St., in Jackson Ward. The Rev. Angelo Chatmon, pastor of Pilgrim Journey Baptist Church in Henrico County, is the scheduled speaker. Living the Dream wraps up with Generation Dream 2015, a concert presented by the Richmond Peace Education Center featuring young musicians, dancers and spoken word artists. There are two scheduled performances: 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at the Richmond Public Library’s Main Branch, 101 E. Franklin St. in Downtown, and 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Henrico Theater, 305 E. Nine Mile Road in Highland Springs. Both performances are free and open to the public. Information: Paul Fleisher, (804) 232-1002 or email rypp@rpec.org. Richmonder Gary L. Flowers will speak at the 29th annual Henrico County commemoration of Dr. King 11:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 19, in the Henrico High School gymnasium, 302 Azalea Ave. Mr. Flowers, a former vice president and national field director for the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition in Chicago, is founder and president of Gary Flowers and Associates, a consulting firm based in Richmond and Washington. Information: Lucy Wells at (804) 740-7536 and Helen Harris at (804) 262-1138. Also, the third annual State of Black America Address for Central Virginia is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at Thirty-first Street Baptist Church, 823 N. 31st St. in the East End. The event is sponsored by the African-American Lecture Series Committee. Speakers from diverse backgrounds are to discuss the black family, black children, the black church and the criminal justice system in Virginia. Information: (888) 440-5397 or email VALectures@gmail.com.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Churches vie in Baptist Bowl Anthony Easter of Fifth Street Baptist Church tries to get by Woody Winhorn of Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church in the fourth annual Baptist Bowl, the New Year’s flag football competition between the two Richmond churches. Location: Hotchkiss Field on North Side. Once again, Fifth Street was the victor. The team won its third straight bowl with a 13-7 overtime victory Sunday. Sixth Mount Zion has not won since the inaugural game in 2012.

New sorors for Zeta Phi Beta

Richmond’s Alpha Phi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority welcomed five new members Dec. 20 in a ceremony and reception held at the Varina Branch of the Henrico County Public Library.

They are, pictured above from left, Tina Fulcher, Shanee Crews, VicKisha Harris, Jonette Meade and Tammy Waddy. Accepting the sorority’s commitment to scholarship, service, sisterhood and finer womanhood,

the new members join a chapter of 60 members who have provided service to the Richmond community since 1942. Community service activities include partnering with the March of Dimes to end

premature births, birth defects and infant mortality, the Alzheimer’s Association to help educate families on eldercare, and the city’s Adopt-A-School program to assist students and educators.

Fraternity hosts panel for young adults Jan.10 Members of the Richmond Upsilon Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity will host a panel discussion for young adults Saturday, Jan. 10, at the Richmond Police Department’s Training Academy at 1202 W. Graham Road on North Side. Time: 9 a.m. to noon. The theme of the panel discussion: “Shaping Our Future.” The free event is designed to promote trust, collaboration and better decision making for Richmond’s future generation of leaders, according to organizers. It is “tailored to AfricanAmerican males from local high schools and colleges and will allow them to interact with decision and policy makers in the different areas of the justice system,” stated fraternity member Tony Pham, one of the event organizers, who is general counsel for the Richmond Sheriff’s Office. Panelists include Mr. Pham,

Richmond Police Lt. William “Jody” Blackwell, Richmond attorney Vincent Robertson; Army Command Sgt. Maj. Terry Parham of Richmond; Alvin Mallory Brownlee, a math teacher at Henderson Middle School; Ty White, varsity boys basketball coach

of the state championship John Marshall High School team; Xavia Gary, a survivor of gun violence and former Richmond Public Schools student currently attending James Madison University; Richmond poet Elizabeth Parham; and the Rev. Dexter Cannon, pastor of

Good Samaritan Empowerment Church in Henrico County. Fraternity member Kevin Jackson will moderate the discussion. Details: Gregory Parham, event coordinator, (804) 4337067 or gregoryaparham@ gmail.com.

Richmond Free Press

January 8-10, 2015

Happenings Personality: Lynetta B. Thompson Spotlight on president of Richmond Branch NAACP Self-esteem is the key. That’s something Lynetta B. Thompson realized in her 21 years working with inmates in the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. “How you see yourself, how the media portray you, can lead to self-hate,” she says. “Couple that with the breakdown of the family — it all factors in.” One day Ms. Thompson looked in the mirror and decided that she needed to do more for her community. Years of serving that community led to her recent election as president of the Richmond Branch NAACP. She summed up her desire to be president with one word: Change. “Not taking anything away from past achievements, change is one aspect of our lives — and our organizations — on which we must constantly focus,” Ms. Thompson says. In keeping with that view, the new president says her No. 1 goal is to increase the chapter’s 600-plus membership and recruit more youths. It was youth that got her involved with the NAACP. Her two younger sons joined the organization’s Youth Council 15 years ago. “I was very much involved in their activities,” she says. “At the time, I began working closely as a youth co-adviser with Mrs. Ora Lomax. We are working to expand our ACT-SO program and other programs targeted at area youths.” ACT-SO — the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics — is a yearlong achievement program designed to encourage high academic and cultural achievement among African-American students. Along with education, economic justice goes a long way toward leveling the playing field in America. Unfortunately, Ms. Thompson says, internal economies are rare in African-American communities. Most businesses that thrive in black neighborhoods are not black-owned. This results in “limited self-sustaining efforts to build independent economies that exist over time,” she says. A close-up of this week’s Personality, Lynetta B. Thompson: Place of birth: Richmond’s West End. Current home: Sandston. Community involvement: Newly elected president of the Richmond Branch NAACP; serves on the Executive Committee of the Virginia State Conference NAACP and as adviser for the State Conference’s Youth and College Division; board vice chairwoman of the Virginia Alliance Against Mass Incarceration; chairwoman of the African-American Lecture Series Committee; and board member of the African-American Family Initiative. Occupation: Intake specialist with Broad Rock Counseling & Training Associates; retired after 21 years of service with the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. Alma maters: Huguenot High School; bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Virginia Commonwealth University; associate degree in paralegal studies from the University of Richmond. Family: Adult sons, Daniel Brockington, Marcus Thompson and Marquis Thompson. New Year’s resolution: Along with NAACP Executive Officers Alice Tart (first vice president), Walter Johnson (second vice president), Joyce Knight (secretary) and the branch’s new Executive Committee members, we are planning to provide both innovative and effective leadership for the Richmond Branch NAACP. When elected president of Richmond Branch: Tuesday, Nov. 25. The installation of new officers and the Executive Committee was held Dec. 9. Our first meeting is scheduled for Jan. 27.

No. 1 priority of my presidency: Increasing membership. Over many years, the Richmond branch had an extremely strong relationship with area pastors and church congregations — thanks greatly to “Mrs. Membership,” Catherine Minor, rest her loving soul. First Vice President Walter Johnson will be spearheading a very significant effort to again solidify relationships with pastors and many area churches in terms of working to increase our membership. Richmond Branch’s No. 1 challenge: Effectively working through the current period of transition to meet today’s many challenges. Historically — and appropriately — the NAACP has mainly been very concerned about voting rights, unjust laws and fairness for African-Americans when it comes to education, laws and the court system, better job opportunities and helping to promote self-sufficiency through both business ownership and acquiring good-paying jobs. Some of today’s more difficult challenges also include open assaults on voting rights, the mass incarceration of so many African-Americans, multiple forms of assaults on consumers (to include both predatory lending and high-rate credit cards), exploitation of employees by both large and small corporate enterprises, the continuation of last-hired/ first-fired policies, unfair and targeted laws and policies relating to the child support system in Virginia (which now has clearly been identified as a precursor to mass incarceration), massive suspension and unfair treatment of our youths in public schools along with other issues. How I plan to meet the challenge: After taking deep breaths once we were elected, our team began working to develop several new initiatives and programs, along with seeking innovative strategies to form broad-based collaborations with other Central Virginia area groups and organizations — as

is greatly encouraged by the national NAACP. Status of civil rights in Virginia: Rather than just civil rights, our focus is increasingly on human rights as well. The two go hand in hand. When it comes to civil and human rights, things in Virginia are now evolving — a lot faster than ever in the past. Much of this quickening evolution is a result of increasing and totally unbearable pressures on significant numbers of individuals, families, communities, churches and many of our other institutions. Given the increasing pressures, many are no longer content with inaction and just hoping things will get better soon. A great number of individuals, families, pastors, churches, communities and organizations are actively planning peaceful civil activism to make sure their voices are heard loudly as a way to move faster toward needed change. Most unforgettable civil rights experience: Viewing the PBS documentary “Eyes on the Prize: America’s Civil Rights Movement 1954-1985.” How I start the day: I don’t take for granted the opportunity to pray. I wake up every day grateful for having my health and strength, and I always thank God for another opportunity to serve him. Best late-night snack: Very honestly, butter pecan ice cream. How I unwind: Listening to inspirational and instrumental music. When I look in the mirror, I see: A really determined person who is very focused on what is important in life. Biggest chance I ever took: Traveling abroad alone to pursue an interest in setting up an import/export business. I traveled to Nigeria with very few solid connections on the continent of Africa. What makes me tick: Being around highly motivated people who are focused and know how to really get things done. The best thing my parents ever taught me was: To be honest to yourself and don’t do things just to impress other people. If I had more time, I would: Slow down and prepare to get into law school. The book that influenced me the most: “The Mis-Education of the Negro” by Carter G. Woodson. The book I’m reading now: “Personal Power through Awareness” by Sanaya Roman. If I’ve learned one thing in life, it is: My health is my wealth. I make it a priority to take time to care for myself and maintain my health, and I always consult my owner — God — if I get overwhelmed

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Living The Dream, Inc. 2015 Events (formerly Community Learning Week)

Citywide Seniors Celebration

Mass Meeting

Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Worship Celebration

Martin Luther King, Jr. Worship Celebration

Wednesday, January 14, 2015 - 11:00 A.M. Fifth Baptist Church, 1415 West Cary Street Contact: Mrs. Saundra Rollins (804) 231-9306

20th Anniversary Celebration of Faith Community Thursday, January 15, 2015 - 7:00 P.M. Faith Community Baptist Church, 1903 Cool Lane Guest Preacher: Dr. Gina Stewart of Memphis, TN Pastor of Christ Missionary Baptist Church

Community Leaders Breakfast

Friday, January 16, 2015 - 7:30 A.M. Claude Perkins Living and Learning Center (Campus of Virginia Union University) Speaker: Attorney George K. Martin Ticket information: Ms. Lisa Wynn (804) 342-3938

Monday, January 19, 2015 - 10:00 A.M. Cedar Street Baptist Church, 2301 Cedar Street Guest Speaker: Rev. Peter Wherry, Pastor Mayfield Memorial Baptist Church, Charlotte, N.C. Guest Soloists: Mrs. Brenda Chavis & Rev. Carolyn Clark Monday, January 19, 2015 - 1:00 P.M. Sharon Baptist Church, 22 E. Leigh St. Guest Speaker: Rev. Angelo Chatmon, Pastor Pilgrim Journey Baptist Church, Richmond, VA

Youth Educoncerts

Friday, February 6, 2015 - 7:00 P.M. Richmond Public Library, 101 E. Franklin Street Saturday, February 28, 2015 - 2:00 P.M. Henrico Theatre, 305 E. Nine Mile Rd., Highland Springs, VA 23075 For further information contact the Richmond Peace Education Center 232-1002 or rypp@rpec.org. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. King featuring talented youth performers.

For further information, contact: Rev. Ricardo L. Brown, Executive Director, Living the Dream, Inc. (804) 355-1044 or (804) 355-1166

Richmond Free Press

B4 January 8-10, 2015

Obituaries/Faith Directory

Kent A.P. Smith

Sixth Baptist Church

(1962-2015)

Theme for 2015: Becoming a Five-Star Church of Excellence

Even in death, love doesn’t fade

It’s A Family Affair

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

New Year Sermon Series: CAN GOD? Message 1: Can God Really Meet Your Need? 1 Kings 17:1-24 Church School: (New Time) 9:00 a.m. Worship Preparation: 10:30 a.m. Worship: 11:00 a.m. Sixth Baptist Church: A Church for the Entire Family

Join The Family

Rev. Dr. Yvonne Jones Bibbs, Pastor 400 South Addison Street Richmond, Va. 23220 (804) 359-1691 or 359-3498 Fax (804) 359-3798 Facebook www.sixthbaptistchurch.org sixthbaptistrva

Twitter sixthbaptistrva

Triumphant

Baptist Church

2003 Lamb Avenue Dr. Arthur M. Jones, Sr., Pastor (804) 321-7622 Church School - 9:30 a.m. Worship Service - 11:15 a.m. Bible Study: Tuesday - 9 a.m. Wednesday - 7 p.m. By Holly M. Rodriguez

Kent A.P. Smith was an incredible romantic. His wife, Karla Booker Smith, says one of his most simple romantic gestures has outlived him — Post-it notes with love affirmations for her. “I just found one this morning,” she told the Free Press on Wednesday. “It said ‘Karla: We have a mighty love.’” Mr. Smith, 52, died Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015, at his home of three weeks in Atlanta. His father, Richmond ophthalmologist Dr. Lindley T. Smith, and several brothers were at his side. A front-page article in the Oct. 30-Nov. 1, 2014, edition of the Free Press featured the couple’s wedding in the healing garden at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Cancer Center, where Mr. Smith was undergoing treatment for stage 4 lung cancer and a brain tumor. The couple was surrounded by family and friends at the intimate ceremony that was emotional, yet filled with hope. While they were married only two months and 10 days, the short time pales in comparison

to the depth of their love. Mrs. Smith, 51, said she has found more than a dozen notes hidden in unlikely places around the house — on the side of the dryer, in the freezer between packages of chicken, behind her jewelry box. She believes he left the notes for her to find after his death, to ease her feeling of loss. Radiation and chemotherapy treatment compromised Mr. Smith’s ability to carry out routine loving gestures such as opening the door for his wife. But Mrs. Smith said the notes are a reminder of the rare gift they shared in their time together. “He gave me the space to be vulnerable, and then I was able to turn around and do that for him,” she said. Mr. Smith met his wife when they were schoolchildren together in California. Mr. Smith’s family moved to Richmond, and more than 40 years later, the couple found each other again on Facebook and began dating. Mr. Smith was diagnosed with cancer while they were planning their nuptials for the spring of this year. Partially due to the severity of his diagnosis, the couple moved up their plans and wed Oct. 27, 2014.

After treatment at Massey Cancer Center, Mr. Smith moved to his wife’s Atlanta home, where he began chemotherapy in December 2014. Born in Mount Vernon, N.Y., in 1962, Mr. Smith graduated from Collegiate School in 1981, and interned for former Virginia Congressman Thomas J. Bliley Jr. During his career in business and criminal justice, he was appointed by former Virginia Gov. George Allen as acting director of the state Department of Minority Business Enterprise and later served on the Virginia Parole Board during former Gov. Jim Gilmore’s administration. Most recently, Mr. Smith worked as the director of business development for River City Comprehensive Counseling Services in Richmond. He also was involved in the community, coaching middle school football with a former classmate. Mr. Smith is survived by his wife, his father and his brothers, Kyle, Kurt, Kern, Ross and Hayden. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 10, in Atlanta, and plans are underway for another memorial in Richmond.

Richmond native Dr. Shields, speech pathologist Jessica Samuels Shields sought to help public school children overcome speech problems. As a speech pathologist, she worked to “correct and improve their speech. She loved what she was doing,” said her brother, M. Gerard Samuels. A Richmond native, Dr. Shields succumbed to illness Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014, in a Washington hospital. She was 65. She was remembered at her funeral in Washington on Dec. 29, and at a service Dec. 30, 2014, at Forest Lawn Mausoleum in Henrico County. Dr. Shields was part of a family of educators, including her mother, the late Jesse P. Samuels, and her two brothers, Fleming E. Samuels, a retired Richmond principal and

teacher, and GeShe later earned rard Samuels, a a m a s t e r ’s i n physical educaspeech pathology tion teacher in from the UniverRichmond, Washsity of Virginia and ington and Prince a doctorate in comGeorge’s County, munications sciMd. ences from HowA graduate of ard University. Armstrong High After moving School, Dr. Shields to Northern Virbegan her career in ginia as she earned Richmond Public her doctorate, Dr. Schools after earnShields worked Dr. Shields ing a bachelor’s for school systems degree in speech pathology in the District of Columbia and and audiology from Florida in Prince George’s County. A&M University in TallahasDuring her career, she also see, Fla. taught aspiring speech pathol-

Moore Street

Wilson & Associates’ Funeral Service, Inc.

Monthly Obituary Column • December 2014

Brian V. Wilson Owner

Thank you to the following bereaved families for allowing us to serve you during the month of November 2014. You are still in our prayers and thoughts. View full obituaries online at www.wilsonafs.com

Missionary

Baptist Church

12/1/2014 12/2/2014 12/2/2014 12/3/2014 12/3/2014 12/4/2014 12/7/2014 12/8/2014 12/8/2014 12/8/2014 12/9/2014 12/10/2014 12/12/2014 12/12/2014 12/13/2014

1408 W. Leigh Street • 358-6403

Dr. Alonza Lawrence Pastor

Sundays

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

Sunday, Jan. 18, 2015 at 9:30 A.M. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Program

Juanita M. Johnson Garrett R. Martin Annie M. Ferguson Stanley Guice Harry W. Peeples Elvert C. Griffin Jr. Brittney M. Carter Earnest Barnes Sr. James D. Harrison John T. Davis Sr. Marquis B. Morgan David Woolridge Cammie Jackson Alice V. Belgard Deaconess Charlie Mae Allen

12/13/2014 12/14/2014 12/18/2014 12/20/2014 12/22/2014 12/23/2014 12/23/2014 12/24/2014 12/24/2014 12/27/2014 12/27/2014 12/27/2014 12/28/2014 12/29/2014 12/31/2014

Alma B. Smith Patsy E. Pleasant Lindsay Harkless, Jr. Marshall L. Crawley, Sr. Stuart “Bump” Brown Cornell A. Greene Alexander Keel Elsie B. Miles Welton M. Nash, Sr. DeLois H. Baker Christopher S. Wood Larry O. Coleman Rosalind E. Brown LaVerne C. “Tootsie” Gross Charles Bowman

5008 Nine Mile Road, Richmond, VA 23223 • 804-222-1720, Fax 804-222-1745

Speaker: Dr. Cavell Phillips

Remembering those we love ... Remembering those we serve.

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 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

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ogy students at Virginia State and Howard universities. For the past 12 years, she also operated a private speech and language consulting company. Dr. Shields belonged to professional organizations, such as the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and was an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Survivors include her husband of 16 years, Gregory V. Shields of Washington, and her brothers.

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.

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

Prayer Services: Wednesday (1st & 3rd ) 7 a.m. Every Wednesday 8 p.m. Communion - 1st Sunday

St. Peter Baptist Church

Dr. Kirkland R. Walton, Pastor

Worship Opportunities Sundays: Morning Worship Church School Morning Worship

8 A.M. 9:30 A.M. 11 A.M.

Unity Sundays (2nd Sundays) Church School 8:30 A.M. Morning Worship 10 A.M. Thursdays: Mid-Day Bible Study 12 Noon Prayer & Praise 6:30 P.M. Bible Study 7 P.M. (Children/Youth/Adults) 2040 Mountain Road • Glen Allen, Virginia 23060 Office 804-262-0230 • Fax 804-262-4651 • www.stpeterbaptist.net

“Working For You In This Difficult Hour”

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

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

New Deliverance Evangelistic Church

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

th 19 NDEC Founders &

Church Anniversary January 18, 2015 9:00 a.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

You can now view Sunday Morning Service “AS IT HAPPENS” online! Also, for your convenience, we now offer “full online giving.” Visit www.ndec.net.

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

Our NDCA curriculum also consists of a Before and After program. Now Enrolling for our Nursery Ages 6 weeks - 2yrs. old. For more information Please call (804) 276-4433 Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm

Richmond Free Press

January 8-10, 2015

Faith News/Directory

Emancipation Day service calls for action for justice By Joey Matthews

Many in the audience of about 500 people rose and applauded. Some shouted, “Amen!” Others wiped tears from their eyes. They responded as speaker after speaker passionately issued clarion calls for community action New Year’s Day at the 74th Annual Emancipation Proclamation Day service at Fifth Baptist Church in the city’s West End. Two weeks before the start of the 2015 General Assembly session, speakers called for justice for African-Americans in the wake of police killings of unarmed black men, attempts to disenfranchise black voters and a lack of jobs and resources in communities of color. The Rev. Earl M. Brown, who co-pastors Fifth Baptist Church with his son, the Rev. Ricardo L. Brown, urged African-Americans to advocate for change with a “new spirit of determination.” “There’s still a long way to go,” he said. He cited the shooting by a white police officer of Michael Brown Jr. in Ferguson, Mo., in August and the death by chokehold by a white police officer of Eric Garner in New York City in July. “Nobody should be dead for selling individual cigarettes,” Rev. Brown said of Mr. Garner. Dr. Marlon Haskell, the president of the 200-member Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Richmond and Vicinity, which sponsored the event, said he had stayed on the political sidelines for too many years. “I challenge all of us to awaken and get in the game and help lawmakers, black or white, do what’s best for all of us,” he said. He said he was asked why they still hold the Emancipation Day service, which commemorates Jan. 1, 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln signed the proclamation freeing enslaved people in Confederate states. “It awakens the sleeping person in me and others,” he said. “You should not leave here not wanting to be engaged in what needs to be done” for the betterment of the community and society as a whole. Notably absent was Mayor Dwight C. Jones. So were all of the members of the City Council and School Board. In years past, the

Left, Dr. Reginald F. Davis, pastor of First Baptist Church in Williamsburg, calls for psychological emancipation in breaking the residual chains of slavery in the African-American community. Right, Larry Bland and Sandra Antoine are moved by the music of the Greater Metropolitan Choir that sang at the annual Emancipation Proclamation Day service.

commemoration has drawn a wide array of elected officials. The only elected officials to answer calls to address audience members were state Delegate Betsy B. Carr, D-Richmond, and Frank J. Thornton, the Fairfield District representative on the Henrico County Board of Supervisors. Dr. Reginald F. Davis, pastor at First Baptist Church of Williamsburg, stirringly delivered the keynote freedom message. “Because our resilience was stronger than oppression, stronger than racism, stronger than hate, stronger than a lie, stronger than evil, stronger than lynch mobs, terrorism, dogs, water hoses and prison cells, it is a testament that God is with us, and God is not finished with us yet,” Dr. Davis said. His message theme — “Two Emancipations, One More to Go” — was drawn from Galatians 5:1 in the Bible. He said the first emancipation came from Jesus Christ. “Jesus Christ made us free, and we ought not bow down to any man, any system that does not recognize the freedom we have in Jesus Christ,” Dr. Davis said. “We have been emancipated by God’s beloved son of Africa.

Virginia People’s Assembly to convene Jan. 10 Jobs, police, prisons and other issues will be the focus of the 7th Annual Virginia People’s Assembly that will convene this weekend at a Richmond church, it has been announced. The assembly will open its 12-hour session 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, 1720 Mechanicsville Turnpike — just four days before the General Assembly convenes its session Wednesday, Jan. 14. More than 30 people are scheduled to speak at panels, workshops and plenary

sessions, organizers said. There also will be votes on policy resolutions to carry to the state legislature and Congress. Among the topics: The developing movement against police killings, the campaign for a $15-an-hour minimum wage, ways to improve education, women’s reproductive rights, immigration, prisons and environmental justice. Open to the public, the People’s Assembly will run until 9 p.m. Lunch and dinner will be provided, organizers said. The assembly is described as an opportu-

FAITH LEADERS MOVING FORWARD Dr. Charles Shannon, President

Saturday, January 17, 2015 9:00 - 10:00 AM

Obama Care/Affordable Care Act Public Information Forum and Enrollment

nity for those working for justice to network, strategize and collaborate in advance of the upcoming General Assembly session. Participants usually include union members, prisoner advocates, women’s rights activists, immigrants and their supporters, gay community activists, students, anti-war organizers, veterans and others. The VPA requests a donation of $10 per person, but does not require payment to attend. Additional information: (804) 644-5834 or www.VaPeoplesAssembly.org.

Zion Baptist Church

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

2006 Decatur Street Richmond, VA 23224

�

Dr. Robert L. Pettis, Sr., Pastor Sunday Service 10 a.m.

10:00 AM - 3:30 PM

2015 State of Black America Address (Central Virginia)

Held at Thirty-first Street Baptist Church 823 N. 31st Street, Richmond, VA 23223 For more information, call (804) 251-0288 or (804) 441-5449

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

Church School 8:45 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study 7p.m.

Noon Day Bible Study

Wednesdays

6:30 p.m. Prayer and Praise 7:00 p.m. Bible Study

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❖

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

Tuesday

Bible Study 12 Noon

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

Rev. Pernell J. Johnson, Pastor

Richmond, Virginia

January 13-15,2015

Tuesdays

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

Church School 9:45AM Worship 11:00AM

Faith Celebration 2015

8:00 a.m. Early Morning Worship 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Morning Worship

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Sunday

20th Pre-Anniversary Celebration

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Church School 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Service Times

Theme: Guarding Our Vision and Preserving Our Mission In The Midst of the Harvest

Sundays

ing Dr. Morris Henderson, Senior Pastor bin m o ❖ C SUNDAYS

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

Voice: 804-649-7225 Fax804-649-0935 www.fcbcrichmond.org Reverend Dr. Patricia A. Gould-Champ, Pastor and Founding Visionary

Pastor

everence

FirstM iBaptist Church dlothian

Van Transportation Available, Call 804-794-5583

1903 Cool Lane

“Reclaiming the Lost by Proclaiming the Gospel”

2015 Theme: The Year of Moving Forward

ance with Relev

This is our first and greatest emancipation.” He said the second emancipation came Jan. 1, 1863, with President Lincoln’s signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. “Although this freedom was anemic in nature, we were freed, but still not free,” Dr. Davis said, citing ensuing Jim Crow laws and other racist measures designed to keep black people down and destroy their cultural identity. He said African-Americans next must undergo a “psychological emancipation” to realize freedom because “while in bondage, they taught us to hate ourselves and not cooperate with ourselves. They deposited in us certain beliefs and values that work to their advantage, but to our detriment. “The Negro will only be truly free when he reaches down to the inner depths of his own being and signs with pen and ink of assertive selfhood his own emancipation proclamation,” Dr. Davis said. “Our psychological emancipation may be the hardest and most challenging, but it is key to our future and the future of our children and our children’s children,” he added. “We must break the chains of psychological slavery.” The ceremony also was marked by the stirring singing of the Greater Metropolitan Choir, a mix of area choir members, under the direction of the Rev. Annesto Younger, an associate minister at Fairfield Baptist Church in the East End. Arthur Blackwell, a deacon at Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Church Hill, provided a poignant portrayal of a newly freed enslaved person wearing tattered clothes and walking with a staff as he sang the spiritual, “Oh Freedom.” An offering also was collected to provide money to area branches of the NAACP. The ceremony concluded with the singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

FAITH COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH

Transportation Services 232-2867

Mount Olive Baptist Church Rev. Darryl G. Thompson,

Thirty-first Street Baptist Church

Photos by Paulette Singleton/Richmond Free Press

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

7:00 PM (Nightly)

Tuesday Jan. 13,2015

Wednesday Jan. 14,2015

Thursday Jan. 15,2015

Guest Preacher: Dr. Deborah Martin New Chestnut Baptist Church Mechanicsville, VA Featuring: Armstrong High School Choir

Guest Preacher: Dr. Aaron Dobynes Shiloh Baptist Church Fredericksburg, VA Featuring: Shiloh Baptist Choir, Dancers, etc.

Guest Preacher: Dr. Gina Stewart Christ Missionary Baptist Memphis, TN Featuring: MLK City-Wide Celebration & Dr. Johnny Branch Community Choir

Shaking of the Tree: Celebrating Jazz, Art and Youth Saturday, February 7, 2015 2:00 PM at Faith Community Baptist Church Featuring: The Richmond Youth Jazz Guild, Jerome Jones, and Art from local schools including: Fairfield Court and Armstrong High School

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”

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

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

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 11, 2015 8:00 a.m. ..... Morning Worship 9:30 a.m. ...... Church School 11:15 a.m. ..Morning Worship

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

THURSDAYS Bible Study 1:30 p.m.

Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

Come Join Us! Reverend Dr. Lester D. Frye Pastor and Founder

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

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

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

Richmond Free Press

B6 January 8-10, 2015

Sports Plus

Little League phenom shines as AP Female Athlete of the Year Free Press wire reports

Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/Associated Press

PHILADELPHIA No one in the sports world had heard of the 2014 Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year until August. That’s when 13-year-old Mo’ne Davis became an instant celebrity as she took the mound in the Little League World Series and mowed down batter after batter, giving “throw like a girl” a whole new meaning. She was the first girl to win a Little League World Series game, and her performance dazzled fans young and old. She tossed a two-hitter to help Philadelphia beat Nashville 4-0 in the Little League World Series opener for both teams. Davis, the first girl to appear for a U.S. team in South Williamsport since 2004, had eight strikeouts and didn’t walk a batter. Her team was eventually eliminated after losing to teams from Las Vegas and Chicago. Davis gave up three runs in the Las Vegas game, and could not take the mound against Chicago because of pitch limits. Her steely gaze and demeanor on the mound were intimidating, while, off the field, she shined in interviews. She told admirers that if they thought she was good at baseball, they should see her play hoops. Only in the eighth grade, Davis already plays for her school’s high school varsity basketball team. A vote by U.S. editors and news directors selected Davis as The Associated Press 2014 Female Athlete of the Year. The youngest winner in history, Davis beat out Mount St. Joseph University freshman Lauren Hill — who played her first college basketball game while battling terminal brain cancer — and three-time winner Serena Williams. “A lot of adults around me help out, taught me to be respectful, to be calm during everything and not let anything get to you,” Davis said after learning of her latest honor. After the Little League tournament, Davis was

Gene J. Puskar/Associated Press

Above, strikeout phenom Mo’ne Davis fires a pitch for Philadelphia in her historic 4-0 win over Tennessee. Left, Davis walks on stage at the 2014 Soul Train Awards in November.

everywhere. Davis appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated, has her jersey displayed in baseball’s Hall of Fame and was named Sports Kid of the Year by Sports Illustrated Kids. She met the Obamas at the White House, starred in a Spike Lee-directed car commercial (the NCAA said it wouldn’t hurt her eligibility), marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade along with her Taney Dragons teammates and presented Pharrell Williams with Soul Train’s “Song of the Year” award. The talented three-sport star — she also plays soccer — and honor student from South Philadelphia handled all the attention with poise, modesty and maturity. She threw whiffle balls to Jimmy Fallon on NBC’s “Tonight Show,” threw out the first pitch at Game 4 of the World Series and signed a book deal. “It’s been really fun, got to do a lot of things,

meet a lot of cool people,” Davis said. “My favorite thing to do was playing in Williamsport or going to the White House. (The Obamas) just seemed like a regular couple, no different from anyone else.” While others are still talking about her Little League performance, Davis, a point guard, is concentrating on basketball. “It’s making me a lot better, helping me make decisions,” Davis said of playing varsity. “In middle school, I can get away with small things. The girls now are a lot taller so I’m working on my jump shot and ball handling a lot.” Davis aspires to play for the University of Connecticut and reach the WNBA. She plays midfielder on her soccer team and hopes to play three sports in high school, though she’s not sure about baseball. Davis isn’t just a jock. She excels academically despite such great demands on her time. “It’s all about time management, how you plan your projects and not waiting until the last minute,” she said. Steve Bandura, a recreation leader for the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department and director of the Anderson Monarchs sports programs, has helped coach Davis since she started playing sports. His son, Scott, was the catcher for Taney. Bandura said Davis has maintained her “natural personality” no matter how many cameras or microphones are in her face. “She’s still the same person, still a kid who wants to do kid things,” Bandura said. “She has fun meeting celebrities and all that but the bottom line is she loves to play sports, go to school and have fun. The adults make a bigger deal out of it. Her teammates understand she’s breaking down barriers and they’re proud of her. They’ve been together so long, it’s like she’s their sister.” Davis knows she has become a role model. Her message to everyone, especially girls: “Always follow your dreams. If there’s something people tell you that you can’t do it, go for it.”

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 ordinance: Ordinance No. 2014-254 As Amended 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. 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 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

Defendant. Case No.: CL14001847-00 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 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER WESTINE VAUTERS, Plaintiff v. JOHN VAUTERS, Defendant. Case No.: CL14002849 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 25th 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 BRET HALL, Plaintiff v. JENNIFER HALL,

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)

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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

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Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

ADOPTION

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

Virginia: In the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court of the County of Chesterfield Kathryn Riley and Adrienne Riley, Petitioners v. Codi Goodson and Terrell F. (putative father) and Gaylen (last name unknown) (putative father) parties unknown (putative fathers), Respondents. In Re: Cerenity Bonner, born October 14, 2013 Case No. JJ083806-01-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this action is for the petitioners, Kathryn Riley and Adrienne Riley, to obtain physical andlegal custody of the minor child, Cerenity Bonner, and to obtain an Order granting supervised visitation to Codi Goodson. The biological mother, Codi Goodson, testified under oath in this Court on December 15, 2014, that there were additional possible biological fathers of the minor child: Terrell F. and Gaylen (last name unknown). The biological mother further testified that the address of Terrell F. is unknown, other than that she believes he may live in the east end of Henrico, Virginia and that the address of Gaylen (last name unknown) is unknown, other than the she believes he lives in Atlanta, Georgia. As the respondents/putative fathers’ present whereabouts are unknown and not reasonably ascertainable and further as there are unknown parties who may have an interest in this action, it is ORDERED that Terrell F., Gaylen (last name unknown) and parties unknown appear on or before this Court on the 2nd day of March, 2015, at 2 p.m., and do what is necessary to protect their interests herein. I ASK FOR THIS: Mary-Leslie Duty, Esquire VSB#28719 The Law Office of MaryLeslie Duty 5913 Harbour Park Drive Midlothian, VA 23112 Phone: (804) 595-3083 Fax: (804) 595-3084

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

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

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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

An Extract Teste: WENDY S. HUGHES, Clerk Michael A. Perdue 9011 Arboretum Pkwy, Suite 200, Richmond, VA 23236 (804) 330-9220

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 protect his/her interests on or before January 26, 2015. Continued on next column

COUNTY OF HENRICO, VIRGINIA CONSTRUCTION BID (HVAC)

VEHICLE SERVICE TECHNICIAN

IFB# 14-9689-12JK – Administration Building Add Terminal Units Due 2:30 pm, January 27, 2015. Additional information available at: http://www. henrico.us/departments/ purchasing/bids-andproposals/

Richmond Ambulance Authority is currently seeking a Vehicle Service Technician. This position is located in the Logistics department and supports the mission with various duties. The candidate will serve as a vehicle service technician within the resource area and will support all operations in the Logistics Department while ensuring that all ambulances are “response ready” for the field crews coming in for their shift assignment, with the goal of reducing down time and increasing the quality and delivery of services to crews and patients. Responsibilities include cleaning and stocking all units, grounds, and facilities.The delivered product is a clean vehicle inside and outside with well-stocked shelves and functioning equipment. Candidate be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

COUNTY OF HENRICO, VIRGINIA CONSTRUCTION BID (HVAC) IFB# 14-9693-12JK Laburnum Avenue Drainage and Sidewalk Project Due 2:30 pm, January 28, 2015. Additional information available at: http://www. henrico.us/departments/ purchasing/bids-andproposals/

Pediatric Endocrinologist in Richmond, VA. Diagnose/treat human disease, illness/ injuries & practice evidence-based medicine, w/focus on pediatric endocrine dysfunction. Mail resume to D. Slayden, VCU Health System Authority, 701 E. Franklin St., 9th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219. Pediatric Neonatologist in Richmond, VA. Diagnose, treat, & help prevent children’s diseases/injuries w/emphasis on Neonatal & Perinatal specialties. Mail resume to D. Slayden, VCU Health System Authority, 701 E. Franklin St., 9th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219.

DISPATCHER – (SYSTEM STATUS CONTROLLER) – FULL TIME Under the direction of the Communications Supervisor, this position is directly responsible for properly deploying unit hours, using approved System Status Management techniques.Will serve as the first contact with callers and, as such, will often be called upon to calm and direct the actions of lay persons, prior to the arrival of the EMS personnel, using Medical Priority Dispatch protocols. The ability to pass on pertinent information, and provides direction to ambulance personnel. Position requires the innate ability to perform several tasks at one time. Ideal candidate must have one year of experience functioning as an EMT in a pre-hospital setting and have a solid base knowledge of service area and major street locations. To apply, please visit www.raaems.org to fill out an application. Applications and resumes due by 5PM on January 12, 2015. EOE/AAP

Please visit our website at www.raaems.org to apply no later than 5PM January 12, 2015. EEO/AAP

QA/QI and Coding Coordinator of Reimbursement Richmond Ambulance Authority has an exciting opportunity available for a Coding and QA/QI Coordinator. This position will be responsible for training staff on proper coding practices, assisting with the implementation of ICD-10, and performing internal QA/QI assessments.The candidate will be responsible for reviewing and assessing billing and coding practices, and reporting to management on QA/QI compliance. The candidate must understand and comply with State and Federal, insurance regulations and guidelines. The ideal candidate must have five years medical billing and coding experience and have experience using medical billing software. The position requires the candidate to have their CPC, CCS-P, or an equivalent/ comparable coding certificate. The position requires someone that is detail oriented, organized, and effective in handling their responsibilities. The position requires personal qualities and characteristics necessary for working effectively in a fast paced, team-oriented environment. This position will require a criminal background investigation, credit report review, work sample, and drug testing. Excellent benefits, salary commensurate with experience. To apply, please visit www.raaems.org to complete an application no later than 5:00PM January 12, 2015. EOE/AAP Richmond Free Press is seeking a reliable and creative person for part-time graphics position. Meticulous attention to details. Ability to be flexible and work under deadline cooperatively in a team environment is essential. Submit resumé and samples of work to address below. Human Resources, Richmond Free Press P.O. Box 27709, Richmond, Virginia 23261 No phone calls please