March 2 4, 2017 issue by Richmond Free Press

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Richmond Free Press c e l e b rat ing o u r 2 5 t h A nniv e r s ar y

VOL. 26 NO. 9

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA

www.richmondfreepress.com

ee Fr

Fr ee

Angela Davis speaks

MARCH 2-4, 2017

Individuals in two different eras drive change for the better

Power of one

16-year-old has state building named in her honor By Holly Rodriguez

Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Joan Johns Cobbs, right, listens as Gov. Terry McAuliffe delivers remarks during a dedication ceremony for the Barbara Johns Building, named for her sister, pictured in the portrait, left, in the building’s lobby at 202 N. 9th St.

Salon owner runs free food bank in her North Side shop By Jeremy M. Lazarus

The colorful interior of Rise Above in North Side looks like any hair salon, with beauticians and barbers busy with customers. But walk into a back room and that’s where the shop at 109 W. Brookland Park Blvd. is un-

like any other. Two days a week — Tuesdays and Fridays — the room is stuffed with surplus food that salon owner Marsha Edwards collects from Sam’s Club Please turn to A4

Nearly 66 years after Barbara Johns, a 16-year-old student at Robert Russa Moton High School in Farmville, led hundreds of her classmates on a walkout to protest substandard conditions in her segregated school that were separate but not equal, her sister tearfully thanked Gov. Terry McAuliffe for naming a newly renovated state building in Downtown in Ms. Johns’ honor. “Barbara was a strong, brave, courageous person who saw injustice and did something about it,” Joan Johns Cobbs said. “Her legacy has been firmly planted in the statue in Capitol Square and now on this building, proving that patience is a virtue.” Ms. Johns died in 1991 at age 56. Three

Owners seek return of Maggie Walker papers

of her children, Dawn, Kelly and Terry, her siblings and other relatives attended the dedication ceremony last Thursday held before an audience of more than 200 people in the ornate lobby of the building at 202 N. 9th St. Reading from her sister’s diary, Mrs. Cobbs shared Ms. Johns’ initial discouragement when, after complaining about the school’s conditions to a teacher, she was asked, “Well, why don’t you do something about it?” Ms. Johns wrote that she asked herself, “What could one person do about such a situation?” After spending time in the woods praying and contemplating what to do, Ms. Johns had a vision for action that she believed was divinely inspired. Please turn to A4

Trump lays out tough agenda in address before Congress Free Press wire report

Heralding a “new chapter of American greatness,” President Trump issued a broad call for America first, investing in the nation’s infrastructure, slashing taxes and revamping health insurance in his first By Jeremy M. Lazarus address to Congress. The president offered few details to support the Eight years ago, curious stunationalist agenda he laid out, and, according to dents from the College of Wilfact checkers, padded his speech with numerous liam & Mary stumbled across whoppers. Nonetheless, he received numerous ovaa treasure trove of documents tions and high marks for swapping his trademark hidden in the attic of a vacant pugnaciousness and personal insults for a more building in Gilpin Court. restrained, presidential tone. The building once housed Photo courtesy of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Still, he left many perplexed by his promises the Independent Order of St. to usher in “historic” tax cuts for major corporaLuke, a mutual aid society, tions and the middle class, while touting plans Fifth-graders from Richmond’s Carver Elementary School join Principal Kiwana S. Yates and teachers and the documents provide around an indoor fountain at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and for $1 trillion in “Buy American, Hire American” more information about the Culture in Washington. The students also visited the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, which infrastructure spending to create “millions of jobs,” organization and its noted hosted the Feb. 22 trip in partnership with The New Y-CAPP, Youth Challenged Advised & Positively while also proposing plans to pump up spending leader, Maggie L. Walker, the Promoted. At the foundation, they learned about efforts to advance the global black community and on the Armed Forces and veterans and to build his pioneering civic leader who the separate work of members of the Congressional Black Caucus. The goal of the trip: To enable signature “great wall” along the 1,800-mile U.S. the students to gain a better understanding of the contributions of African-Americans. Please turn to A5 border with Mexico. The question of how he would pay for it all with reduced revenues went unanswered. Deficit hawks in Congress already are signaling disdain for what they see as more of the borrow-and-spend approach By Reginald Stuart that they believe has underWASHINGTON mined the country’s financial President Trump made historic and symbolic embraces of the health. nation’s historically black colleges and universities this week, Some Democrats heard welcoming university chiefs to the White House and issuing ideas they could support in an executive order continuing the White House Initiative on the speech. HBCUs and moving its office to the White House to facilitate For example, U.S. Sen. more direct contact with Trump senior staff. Tim Kaine of Virginia said Monday’s brief White House gathering was the first time a even though President Trump president officially greeted a group of HBCU presidents and “repeated many of his hardchancellors. It was followed Tuesday by a smaller audience of line campaign promises, he HBCU chiefs invited to the White House to witness President also called for some policies Trump signing the executive order. that I support, including paid President Trump, in the executive order and in his address later family leave and smart inTuesday night to a joint session of Congress, stopped short of govestments in our military and ing beyond symbolic gestures, however, despite declaring HBCUs infrastructure.”   essential partners in the nation’s higher education network. “But,” Sen. Kaine added, President Trump did not answer challenges from HBCU “it’s one thing to give a speech presidents to restore the “aspirational goals” started by former filled with lofty promises. It’s President Jimmy Carter and formalized by the late President another to deliver real, thoughtPablo Martinez Monsivais/Associated Press Ronald Reagan requiring all federal agencies to award 5 percent As President Trump meets Monday with presidents and chancellors of historically black out solutions.” of their contracts and grants annually to HBCUs. Virginia’s senior statesman, colleges and universities, Kellyanne Conway, counselor to the president, sits shoeless

Immersed in history

Controversies rattle HBCU presidents’ meetings with Trump, White House officials

Please turn to A4

on an Oval Office sofa working on her cellphone. The photo went viral.

Please turn to A4

Richmond Free Press

A2 March 2-4, 2017

Local News

VUU names Dr. Corey Walker to lead its School of Theology By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Corey D.B. Walker, a scholar, author and college dean, will return to Virginia Union University to lead the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, where he once studied for the ministry. VUU officials announced Monday that the Board of Trustees chose Dr. Walker to succeed Dr. John W. Kinney as senior vice president and dean of the graduate seminary, effective July 1. Dr. Kinney, 69, who has held the post for 27 years, announced recently that he would step down as dean June 30, although he plans to continue to teach at the school. VUU officials noted that Dr. Walker, who earned his master’s of divinity from VUU, would bring a wealth of academic experience to the post. He currently is dean of a major college of Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina — the College of Arts, Sciences, Business and Education, where he manages 19 academic departments that enroll more than 3,500 students and employ more than 200 full-time faculty members. As dean since 2013, Dr. Walker has overseen 50 undergraduate majors and minors, three master’s level graduate programs, four academic centers, the Office of International Programs and the Diggs Art Gallery. He also holds an endowed chair — the John W. and Anna Hodgin Hanes Professor of the Humanities. In a 2016 interview for the African-American Intellectual

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Cityscape Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

Johnetta Jackson takes advantage of the unseasonably warm winter weather to study outdoors last week. Location: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Like many other Richmond area residents and visitors, the Virginia Commonwealth University student and personal trainer found a way to enjoy the unexpected winter warmth. High temperatures are expected to be in the chillier 50s heading into the weekend, but then warm up again into the 70s by Monday before beginning another run of cooler days.

City Council approves funds for new police property center The cramped and decaying storage area in Downtown where the Richmond Police Department holds guns, drugs and other evidence for court cases is finally on its way to being replaced. With Richmond City Council’s approval Monday night, City Hall is moving ahead on a plan to spend about $2.63 million to buy a former tobacco warehouse building at 1401 Commerce Road to provide a new home for the Police Property and Evidence Center. Under the deal outlined in city documents, the owner, City Central LLC, led by real estate developer Russell B. Harper,

Dr. Walker

History Society, he offered his views on the role administrators should play. He called himself “an idealist” who sought to end the divide between administrators and academics. He said he believed it was time for a new era that “marks the end of the ‘administrator’ and a new beginning for critical intellectuals committed to activating new visions of transformation and possibility.” In his view, that’s what universities need — “critical intellectuals – not administrators,” who offer students and faculty “fresh opportunities to move beyond sterile regimes of thought and dogmatic institutional practices, instead framing and authorizing new practices that aid in righteous planetary possibilities.” Dr. Walker previously served as a professor and chairman of the Department of Africana Studies at Brown University, where he was involved in creating the department’s first doctoral program. Earlier, he was a member of the faculty of the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Virginia. He also served as director for three years of the U.Va. Center for the Study of Local Knowledge in the Construction of Race, Gender and Nation, a grant-funded program that was part of the university’s Carter G. Woodson Institute for African and African-American Studies, of which he also was a faculty member. He also spent a year in Europe as a visiting professor at the Friederich Schiller University in Jena, Germany. Dr. Walker earned his undergraduate degree from Norfolk State University and also holds master’s degrees from Harvard and Brown universities, along with his master’s of divinity from VUU. He earned a doctorate in American studies from the College of William & Mary. Dr. Walker has published widely on African-American religion, philosophy and culture and lectured before academic audiences in the United States, the Caribbean, South America, Europe and Africa. His first book, “A Noble Fight: African American Freemasonry and the Struggle for Democracy in America,” was published in 2008 and remains among the few to focus on Prince Hall Masons. He has since completed the manuscript for his next book, “Between Transcendence and History: An Essay on Religion and the Future of Democracy in America.” Despite his busy administrative schedule, he also has been involved in editing a special issue of the journal Political Theology on “Theology and Democratic Future.” He also has served as an associate editor of the award-winning SAGE Encyclopedia of Identity and an associate editor of The Journal of the American Academy of Religion. In addition to writing and editing, he co-directed and coproduced the documentary film, “Fifeville,” about a black neighborhood in Charlottesville, with artist and filmmaker Kevin Jerome Everson. Dr. Walker is a former member and vice rector of the NSU Board of Visitors and served on the state Workforce 2000 Advocacy Council. During his time at Winston-Salem State, he served as a board member of the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, the RiverRun International Film Festival and the Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. He also has been a member of the National Advisory Board of the Middle Passage Ceremonies and Port Markers Project and the advisory boards of the Flywheel Foundation, Project Impact and UNC-TV’s Black Issues Forum.

is to improve the building to accommodate office and storage operations and provide appropriate parking before transferring the deed to the 4.9-acre property to the city. When ready sometime after July, the building will provide about 50,000 square feet of space, or more than double the 21,000 square feet that is now available in the current center located in the basement of the city’s aging former Public Safety Building at 9th and Clay streets. According to city officials, the purchase is a bargain, as construction of a new building the size of the warehouse likely would cost at least $5 million.

Last May, City Council appropriated $700,000 in the 2016-17 capital budget and agreed to provide another $2.2 million in the 2017-18 capital budget for the acquisition of a new property center. In addition to the purchase cost of the building, the city estimates that it would spend another $267,000 to complete environmental and other documents involved in the closing, to move the items in the old property center to the new site, to install phones and computers and pay for furniture and other needed items. — JEREMY M. LAZARUS

Richmond Ambulance Authority earns sixth ACE award

The Richmond Ambulance Authority has proven once again just how well it performs for residents. The RAA has become the first U.S. ambulance service to be named six times as an Accredited Center for Excellence for its dispatch services. RAA received the award for the sixth consecutive time from the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch. The ACE award is the organization’s highest distinction for 911 emergency communications services. RAA first received the IAED designation in 2001 and has successfully maintained

it ever since. “This honor is a reflection of the dedication to excellence and customer service in our communications center,” said Chip Decker, CEO of the Richmond Ambulance Authority. “In an emergency situation, life-saving begins on the phone,” said Danny Garrison, a veteran RAA dispatcher who directs communication services. “We are particularly excited about this award because it acknowledges the dedicated efforts of our dispatchers, who provide a calming and reassuring voice to citizens in an extreme moment of need,” he said.

RAA received its latest ACE award for implementing and complying with the Medical Priority Dispatch System, the most widely used dispatch protocol that enables dispatchers to help people to clear airways, restore breathing, stop bleeding, assist with childbirth and handle other emergencies before trained emergency personnel arrive. Kim Rigden, IAED’s associate director of accreditation, said that RAA is only the second ambulance operation in the world and the first in the United States to be accredited six times, “an incredible accomplishment.” — JEREMY M. LAZARUS

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Free Press in the Congressional Record Richmond Free Press Publisher Jean P. Boone receives a citation from 4th District Congressman A. Donald McEachin — a copy of his remarks placed in the Congressional Record commemorating the newspaper’s 25th anniversary. The Congressional Record is the official record of the proceedings and debates of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. In remarks he delivered Feb. 13 on the House floor, Rep. McEachin lauded the independent,

black-owned Free Press as a “voice for all people since its inception.” He recalled the newspaper’s late founder, Raymond H. Boone, and noted that the Free Press “has altered the media landscape of Richmond, the former capital of the Confederacy,” with its award-winning coverage. The Free Press, he said, “does not only chronicle history, it has made history for the last 25 years.” The newspaper celebrated its silver anniversary on Jan. 16.

Richmond Free Press

March 2-4, 2017

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Richmond Free Press

A4 March 2-4, 2017

News

Salon owner runs free food bank in her North Side shop Continued from A1

in the West End and provides to church food banks and community residents. Last Friday, the room was filled with bread, cakes and cookies that had just arrived. “This is a small load,” she said, but it was good enough for people like Michael Churchwell who drove from Church Hill to pick up free items and for others who filtered in. On Saturdays, Ms. Edwards takes what’s left to seniors who live in an affordable housing complex off Jefferson Davis Highway. Some weeks, she’ll receive meats and produce as well as bakery goods. The biggest loads arrive on Tuesdays, she said, up to eight pallets of food. On that day, representatives from up to nine churches, ranging from smaller worship centers like Behind the Veil Christian Ministries to more established churches like First African Baptist and St. Stephen’s Baptist churches, come to the salon and pick up items for their food banks. “Sometimes, the room is so Ms. Edwards full of food we have to use part of the main room,” said Ms. Edwards, 46, a Brooklyn, N.Y., native who ended up in Richmond after earning a biology degree from the now closed Saint Paul’s College in Lawrenceville. A member of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Ms. Edwards has only one requirement for those who come — that the items taken end up on someone’s plate and do not go to waste. She said she pays a driver up to $150 a week to pick up pallets of food and deliver them to the shop, she said. The barbers and beauticians in the shop pitch in to unload and distribute the food. Ms. Edwards said she does it to try to relieve the hunger that she finds all too prevalent in North Side and in other parts of the city. And it’s a way to keep her promise to give back to the community. She said she made the promise to herself and God during her four-year battle with lung cancer a few years ago. “It was a horrible period,” she said, where she dealt with the disease and the impact of radiation and chemotherapy treatments. She has a history of giving back. Previously, she bought a house and used it to house the homeless, although that project

has ended. An entrepreneurial spirit, she opened the salon in 2011 while she was recovering from cancer. She opens her shop for community meetings, but wanted to do more. Her idea for creating a food bank came a few months later when she noticed a man with a truck full of food parked on a side street near the shop. He was offering the items on his truck to people in the community. When she asked him about it, she found out that he was bringing it from the West End. She made an arrangement to cover his costs and to have him deliver the food to the back door of her shop.

“It’s worked out very well,” Ms. Edwards said, although she acknowledged that it is not always easy to come up with his stipend. She did not provide his name, saying he prefers to remain anonymous. Her efforts have garnered little attention, except from those who benefit. Even the Central Virginia Food Bank, the main provider of free food that gives out food boxes in this area of North Side at least monthly, was surprised to learn about Ms. Edwards’ private operation. She doesn’t mind. “This is something I believe in,” she said. “I’m going to keep doing it for as long as I can.”

16-year-old whose 1951 school strike changed history has state building named in her honor Continued from A1

“It had been given to me and all I had to do was do it,” she wrote in her diary. That vision changed her future, and the future of America forever. On April 23, 1951, Ms. Johns led a walkout of fellow students in protest of the deplorable conditions at the all-black Prince Edward County public school. The strike caught the attention of the NAACP and ultimately became one of five cases that were part of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court litigation decided in 1954 under Brown v. Board of Education. Under that decision, the nation’s highest court ruled that racially separate but unequal was unconstitutional. The decision sparked the Massive Resistance movement by white public officials throughout the South. In Virginia, white officials chose to shut down the public school systems in several localities rather than desegregate the schools. Standing beside a portrait of Ms. Johns in her cap and gown, Gov. McAuliffe reminded the audience of the time period in which she took such a bold stand. “This was before the Little Rock Nine, this was before Rosa Parks, this was before

Martin Luther King,” the governor told the crowd. “This was a 16-year-old girl, who said, ‘We will not tolerate separate and unequal,’ ” he said. “This was the first time we had seen anything like this in the United States of America.” Ms. Johns’ courage changed the course of public education in the United States, but her triumph was not achieved without sacrifice. Mrs. Cobbs said it was a dangerous time in Virginia, and her grandmother’s stories of the Ku Klux Klan made her fearful for her sister’s life. “Our parents received death threats, and that’s why she went to live with Uncle Vernon in Montgomery,” she said, referring to the Rev. Vernon Johns, a civil rights pioneer who lived in Alabama. Ms. Johns completed her senior year there at Alabama State College Preparatory High School. She then attended Spelman College in Atlanta and went on to earn a degree in library science from Drexel University. She married, had five children, and lived the rest of her life in Philadelphia. Melonie Cobbs-Marsh, Ms. Johns’niece, said after the ceremony that she spent summers in Philadelphia with her cousins, and remembers time with her aunt.

“She was always no-nonsense, sweet and sincere,” she said. “Very serious about excellence, and so fearless.” “We, as Virginians, need to remember that we stand on her shoulders,” Gov. McAuliffe said during the ceremony. “Everybody is entitled to a great education … and it is incumbent upon all of us to stand on her shoulders and take the Commonwealth of Virginia, and this nation, to the next level.” Gov. McAuliffe announced in January at the annual Community Leaders Breakfast at Virginia Union University honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that the building would be named for Ms. Johns. Originally built in 1904 by businesswoman Adeline Detroit Atkinson, the 12-story structure served as the Hotel Richmond, one of the prominent hotels of Downtown in the early 20th century. In the 1920s, the hotel became the unofficial headquarters of Gov. Harry F. Byrd Sr., who later became a U.S. senator and champion of Massive Resistance. In 2016, the building underwent a $46 million renovation. It now houses the offices of Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring, who also spoke at the event.

Trump lays out tough agenda in address before Congress Continued from A1

Sen. Mark R. Warner, found the speech long on talk and short on substance. “For those Americans looking for a clear and forward-looking agenda, tonight’s speech raised more questions than it answered,” he said, noting that “Americans did not hear specifics on his plans to replace the Affordable Care Act, protect Social Security and Medicare and reform our tax code.” Meanwhile, Sen. Warner said that President Trump’s “plans for more cuts in discretionary spending would not even begin to pay for his proposed increases in defense spending, and neither will cuts to foreign aid or wildly unrealistic promises of economic growth.” On the health insurance front, President Trump renewed his call for “repealing and replacing” Obamacare, his predecessor’s signature health

insurance program that has provided coverage for more than 20 million Americans who cannot afford or cannot get health insurance through an employer. President Trump continued to push ideas that experts indicate would do little to keep his promises to make health insurance more affordable and available, including lowering the cost of prescription drugs, enabling people to buy insurance across state lines and offering tax credits and expanding health savings accounts to help Americans purchase coverage. Delivering the Democrats’ formal response, former Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear accused President Trump of planning to “rip affordable health insurance” from Americans and being “Wall Street’s champion.” On national security, President Trump employed dark language to describe the threat posed by “radical Islamic terrorism” — a term his own

national security adviser rejects as inflammatory — and warned against “reckless” and “uncontrolled entry” of refugees and immigrants from countries with ties to extremist groups. President Trump’s overall message on immigration, one of his signature campaign issues, seemed unexpectedly mixed to some. He said he believed that “real and positive immigration reform is possible” and before the speech, suggested to news anchors that he would be open to legislation that could provide a pathway to legal status for some of the millions of people living in the U.S. illegally, particularly those brought here as children. However, he did not mention that kind of idea in his address but doubled down on his efforts to close the border to refugees from the Middle East as well as Mexico and Latin America. “It is not compassionate, but reckless, to allow uncontrolled entry from places where proper

vetting cannot occur,” President Trump said. “We cannot allow a beachhead of terrorism to form inside America. We cannot allow our nation to become a sanctuary for extremists.” Nonetheless, he appealed for a bipartisan effort in Congress to create change in this area. “If we are guided by the well-being of American citizens, then I believe Republicans and Democrats can work together to achieve an outcome that has eluded our country for decades,” he said. That includes creating a merit-based system for immigration that would allow only people with college degrees or special skills to be admitted legally. Like many listeners, Sen. Kaine found it “difficult to take President Trump at his word in areas like immigration reform when we’ve seen him repeatedly vilify undocumented immigrants and threaten a deportation force that would tear families apart.”

Controversies rattle HBCU presidents’ meetings with Trump Continued from A1

Some of the HBCU presidents and higher education leaders had hoped President Trump would match or exceed that goal. His executive order, however, expressed only broad themes of inclusion. The president also did not address directly the wish list of the education leaders that he use the occasion to signal that his forthcoming budget plans would boost student aid and assistance by increases in federal Pell Grants and restoration of Parent PLUS Loans, or PPL, to past levels. Such assistance is essential for HBCU students, more than 80 percent of whom rely upon financial aid to enter and complete college. The two days of meetings and contacts on Capitol Hill and at the White House was nothing short of busy for the more than 80 HBCU leaders. What started as a “Fly-In” to help Republican House leaders was quickly embraced by the White House as a vehicle for establishing closer ties with HBCUs, a historical action base for African-American voters. A highly touted “listening” meeting with Vice President Mike Pence and top administration executives Monday afternoon was more brief than many had expected, although well attended by senior White House aides. The meeting was interrupted when President Trump said he wanted to meet briefly with the HBCU presidents. An unofficial photo from that meeting went viral worldwide. In it, Kellyanne Conway, counselor to the president, was perched shoeless on an Oval Office sofa with her cellphone as President Trump posed for photos with the university presidents. The distraction got as much attention on social media as the actual meeting. Following the session, the “listening” session resumed on Capitol Hill, with U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos making brief remarks. As the HBCU presidents gathered Monday evening for a reception, the event was rattled by a statement issued by Ms. DeVos that offended some participants. Ms. DeVos is a major supporter of charter schools and has never worked in a public school setting or with HBCUs. In her statement, she cited HBCUs as “real pioneers when it comes to school choice.” As word spread of her statement, some higher education activists said her comments reflected the depth of her ignorance about the roots and evolution of HBCUs. Others said her comments reflected her view of HBCUs in today’s post-segregation context. Rather than setting the stage for Tuesday’s executive order

by the president, Ms. DeVos’ statement was viewed as another sign that she is “out of touch” and not ready for her cabinet position. Regardless, her office soon issued another statement seeking to calm the waters, with her asserting the importance of HBCUs to American education. On Tuesday, Ms. DeVos was the keynote speaker at a Capitol Hill luncheon given for HBCU presidents. No reference was made to her Monday night statement. When a smaller group of HBCU presidents returned to the White House for President Trump’s signing of the executive order — it has the White House Initiative on HBCUs reporting to Ms. DeVos — she was not among those participating in the ceremony. The executive order was issued just hours before the president’s congressional address in which he pledged to boost defense spending by cutting spending on domestic programs. Norfolk State University President Eddie N. Moore Jr. said the meetings made up two of the best days in his 20 years of serving as a university president. “We expressed a need for an unrestricted investment so that each campus could meet their greatest needs,” Mr. Moore said. “After two days of discussion, it is clear that simply enhancing any of the existing programs would not necessarily meet the needs of all member institutions.” Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott of Newport News, a longtime advocate for HBCUs, sought to caution the public about the days ahead. “Every president since Jimmy Carter has issued an executive order to strengthen HBCUs, and it is encouraging that the White House is honoring this tradition,” Rep. Scott said in a

statement. “These institutions merit robust investment and their students deserve a strong federal commitment to grant aid, such as Pell Grants, and wrap-around services to get them in and through college. “Unfortunately, there is alarming talk from the White House about increasing defense spending at the expense of domestic programs, which could include cuts to programs that support HBCUs and other federal education programs,” Rep. Scott said. “As the budget process evolves, I encourage the administration to reinforce its support of this new Executive Order by offering and securing real investments in HBCUs, our public education systems and the students and families who they serve.” Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, expressed some trepidation. While President Trump has “set a high bar,” said Dr. Lomax, a former president of Dillard University, “we await the opportunity to see if the administration will meet their pledges, specifically as it pertains to funding for HBCUs.” Dr. William Harvey, president of Hampton University and volunteer chairman of the White House Initiative on HBCUs during former President Obama’s administration, said the meetings should be considered an opportunity, despite downsides expressed by some. As a veteran of White House encounters, Dr. Harvey said the university chiefs should not have expected a long give and take, as some had believed might happen. “You’ve got a whole new set of dynamics,” said Dr. Harvey, referring to President Trump and his team. “I think the president … showed a great deal of respect and graciousness to us. I don’t have any negatives. I don’t throw stones.”

City observes Black Restaurant Week March 6-12 Twenty area restaurants will be the focus next week during a promotion called Richmond Black Restaurant Week. Between Monday, March 6, and Sunday, March 12, each of the black-owned and operated restaurants will offer special, fixed-price meals for lunch and dinner in a bid to attract new customers and to showcase their offerings. The Richmond eateries are joining restaurants in Louisville, Memphis and St. Louis in the marketing campaign “Eat, Empower, Engage.” The area restaurants plan to donate part of their proceeds to Renew Richmond, which develops community gardens.

The participating restaurants in this area include: Big Herm’s Kitchen, Brewers Café, Cary 100, Charles’ Kitchen, Chef Mamusu’s Africanne Restaurant, Croaker’s Spot, Family Secrets, Inner City Blue’s, Loft 17, Mama J’s and Ma Michele’s Café. Also, Ms. Girlee’s Restaurant, Nomad’s Deli, Southern Kitchen, Sugar’s Crab Shack, Sweet Teas Southern Cuisine, Spoonbread Bistro, The DM Restaurant & Lounge, The Speakeasy Grill and Traditionz Smokehouse. F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n : w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / events/1873299656233338/.

Richmond Free Press

March 2-4, 2017 A5

Local News

Va. Legislative Black Caucus touts wins in 2017 General Assembly session By Saraya Wintersmith

Members of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus said they’re proud of what they managed to accomplish in the 2017 General Assembly session, despite being a small contingent of Democrats within a Republican-controlled legislature. “We have worked together to support and vote for legislation that will make a difference in people’s lives,” said caucus Chair Roslyn C. Tyler of Sussex. She cited bills sponsored by caucus members — and approved by the General Assembly — that, among other things, allow community college credit for people who successfully complete state-approved apprenticeship programs and that require new, standardized traffic stop procedures to be taught in drivers’ education programs in Virginia’s public schools. Members of the 18-person caucus recounted their legislative victories during a wrap-up news conference last week. The legislative session ended Saturday, with lawmakers giving final approval to a $107 billion, two-year budget that restored a 3 percent pay hike for state employees. The spending plan now before Gov. Terry McAuliffe also provides a 2 percent raise for teachers, faculty members at the state’s public colleges and additional funds to boost salaries of State Police, sheriff’s deputies and other state-supported law enforcement officers. One of the caucus’ main priorities this session was protecting Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s education funding for kindergarten through 12th grade. “We have to make sure that our children have the money in our systems for academic excellence and job training skills,” Delegate Tyler said at the legislative session’s opening in early January. Leading Republicans in both the House of Delegates and the Senate also called education investment a priority. The final budget included about $18 million more in K-12 funding than Gov. McAuliffe proposed. Sen. Jennifer L. McClellan of Richmond said the increased funding should help public schools, which are a primary place of education for children of color. She also pointed to the spending plan’s $32 million for increased mental health services as a win for Virginia’s African-American communities. The budget agreement includes $5 million for supportive housing within the community for people with mental health issues and same-day access to mental health and opioid treatment services. “While almost everyone is touched by, or knows someone who is touched by mental illness, the black community disproportionately doesn’t get treatment,” Sen. McClellan said. “I think anything that we can do to expand access to mental health services impacts the black community probably more so because it’s so much harder, particularly for poor black people to get access to mental health services.” The caucus also suffered legislative losses. Their push for raising the state minimum wage and for redistricting reform were defeated in committees where the membership is stacked with Republican lawmakers. The caucus also backed measures to curtail the length of school suspensions, but the bills were killed by lawmakers who believe local school officials should have full authority to address such issues. Other measures approved by the General Assembly allow community organizations to possess and dispense naloxone, a drug that has helped to curb the rising number of overdose deaths; require public school systems to test drinking water in school buildings built before 1986; and require judges to consider a person’s financial situation when setting up a payment play for unpaid fines. Gov. McAuliffe has vetoed measures approved by the General Assembly that would prevent the state Health Department from funding clinics, such as Planned Parenthood, that provide abortions in certain circumstances and allow active duty military personnel ages 18 to 21 to apply for a concealed weapon permit. The House of Delegates also blocked a proposed amendment to the Virginia Constitution that would have required felons to pay fines, restitution and court costs and fees before their voting rights are restored. The amendment also would have required felons who committed violent crimes to wait five years after completing their sentences to get their rights restored. “We have fought a good fight, and yes, we have kept the

Black History Museum executive director resigns; interim leader named By Holly Rodriguez

When Tasha Chambers took on the role of executive director of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia in Richmond’s Jackson Ward, the position had been vacant for eight months. Now, following a brief 18-month tenure, Ms. Chambers has resigned. Her last day was Tuesday. A new interim executive director, Adele Johnson, started Wednesday, March 1. Marilyn H. West, chair of the museum’s board, said Ms. Chambers gave ample notice of her planned departure. Ms. West said a national search for a new executive director will begin soon, with the board hoping to fill the position within the next six months. The board, she told the Free Press, is appreciative of Ms. Chambers’ hard work and is confident in Ms. Johnson’s oversight of the museum until the position is permanently filled. Ms. Johnson Ms. Chambers “Ms. Johnson has an extraordinary skill set and she is someone who is ready to hit the ground running,” Ms. West said in a phone interview. “She knows the museum from her work in a consulting capacity, and she is well known in the business community.” The museum opened in its $8 million home at the historic armory at 122 W. Leigh St. in early May. Fundraising efforts were continuing at the time to finish paying for construction costs and to create an endowment. Ms. West said that Ms. Johnson recently consulted with the museum on fundraising. She brings 25 years of nonprofit experience in leadership and management to her interim role. She has served as the executive director of the Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation, as community relations director at Capital One and president of the Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council. Prior to her appointment at the museum, Ms. Johnson was a principal consultant at Inclusive Edge, a management consulting firm.

Senators applaud their young pages in the gallery on the session’s opening day.

faith,” Delegate Tyler said last Thursday, “but our race is definitely not over.” Members of the caucus said they will return to their respective districts and focus on get-out-the-vote efforts for November’s gubernatorial and legislative elections. During the session, the VLBC welcomed two new members, Delegate Jeff Bourne of Richmond and Delegate Cliff Hayes

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Jr. of Chesapeake. Delegate Bourne, a former member of the Richmond School Board, filled the seat formerly held by Sen. McClellan, who was elevated to the Senate following former Sen. A. Donald McEachin’s election in November to the U.S. House of Representatives. The caucus now bids farewell to Delegate Daun Hester of Norfolk who plans to run for treasurer of Norfolk.

Owners seek return of Maggie Walker papers Continued from A1

pushed black economic empowerment before her death in 1934. Ever since the find, Heather A. Huyck of the College of William & Mary, has led a team of volunteers in conserving and cataloguing the 15,000 documents that her students found neatly packed in more than 30 boxes. The documents range from bills and insurance documents to Mrs. Walker’s personal correspondence with people like NAACP leader W.E.B. DuBois and Bethune-Cookman University founder Mary McLeod Bethune. The papers are expected to add fresh insight into the Order of St. Luke’s department store, newspaper and bank that Mrs. Walker created while presiding over the organization she led from near bankruptcy to prosperity. She was the first AfricanAmerican woman to charter a bank. Next week, with the city working to complete a monument to Mrs. Walker in Downtown, Dr. Huyck will join with the National Park Service and the National Collaborative for Women’s History Sites in celebrating the completion of the preservation work. The program will highlight the extraordinary collection and those who participated in the painstaking effort of sorting, protecting and digitizing the documents. It also will highlight the Stallings family that owns the building where the documents were found. The invitation-only program is set for 10 a.m. Friday, March 10, at the historic Hippodrome Theater in the 500 block of North 2nd Street, according to Andrea Dekoter, chief of interpretation and education at the National Park Service’s Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site that includes Mrs. Walker’s former home in Jackson Ward. While the NPS has hopes that the documents could end up at its site, Ms. Dekoter said “the final decision will be up to the Stallings family, which owns the documents.” Wanda D. Stallings, a co-owner of the St. Luke Building with her mother, Margaret T. Stallings, said they have other plans. Ms. Stallings said she appreciates the work Dr. Huyck and her team have done to protect and catalogue the documents, but she and her mother want the papers “to go to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, which currently does not have anything about Maggie Walker.” Through her attorney, Alexander Ayers, Ms. Stallings and her mother have requested that Dr. Huyck return the papers. Dr. Huyck is a W&M research associate and adjunct history professor. She also is past president of the women’s history collaborative. According to Mr. Ayers, Mrs. Stallings is the rightful owner of the documents and of the four-story landmark building at 900 St. James St., where the documents were stored. Mrs. Stallings inherited the building and other properties following the death in 2000 of her husband, James Stallings. A major landowner in Jackson Ward and

Photo by Joseph McClain

In this 2009 photo, Dr. Heather Huyck displays a 1935 death certificate found with the Maggie Walker papers in the St. Luke Building in Richmond.

Gilpin Court, Mr. Stallings purchased the building in 1971 as the Order of St. Luke was dying, with hopes of one day restoring the building to use. Mrs. Stallings and her daughter have created a limited liability company to pursue redevelopment of the 114-year-old building and the land around it that they also co-own. Already, they have begun to fix up the exterior of the building that is boarded up and surrounded by a security fence. Workers are repairing and replacing mortar and doing other exterior restoration work. Ms. Stallings has long been irked at the claims of Dr. Huyck that the papers had been lost until her students “discovered” them in 2009. “That’s just false,” Ms. Stallings said. In fact, Ms. Stallings said she and her late father lugged the boxes of papers from a safe on a lower level of the building to the attic in 1979 after a series of break-ins. “We knew how valuable they were, and we put them in the attic for safekeeping,” she said. “We were sure no one would go in the attic. I also covered them with old newspapers and other paper to camouflage them. We always planned for them to go to an appropriate place.” The students from Dr. Huyck’s class got involved 30 years later when they arrived from Williamsburg to shoot a documentary about Ms. Walker and the building with the support of Jackson Ward developer Ronald Stallings, a son and brother of the owners. He also allowed the students to explore the building. When they reached the attic, they found the papers, about which Mr. Stallings was unaware. After Dr. Huyck learned about the documents, she received permission from Mr. Stallings to take them back to the college. “At the time, I was in the hospital battling cancer,” said Ms. Stallings, who added the disease is in remission following 17 operations and other treatments. “I wasn’t upset about what he had done, though he really didn’t have authority to allow the papers to be removed, because they were supposed to eventually come back to us.” Mr. Stallings said Tuesday that he gave permission for Dr. Huyck to take the papers, but only on the condition that they would be returned to the family once the work was done.

He wants the papers to be donated to the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, but Ms. Stallings said her brother “does not have a say.” Ms. Stallings said the first she heard about the Hippodrome event was when Dr. Huyck called her mother in February seeking “to get her to sign a release form to give her the papers.” Dr. Huyck apparently was seeking the release as her plan was to donate the papers to the National Park Service, for whom she previously worked as a public historian for 30 years. But “I told her my mother would not sign the release,” Ms. Stallings said. Dr. Huyck did not respond to a Free Press request for comment. Ms. Stallings said the family has received no response from Dr. Huyck to their lawyer’s Feb. 24 letter. Still, what is clear is that the papers of Ms. Walker and the Order of St. Luke are now in better shape. After getting the papers to the college, Dr. Huyck recruited a team of students and African-American women from the Williamsburg-James City-York County NAACP and the Williamsburg affiliate of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs to help sort, catalogue and protect them. Trained by Dr. Huyck and other historians, the volunteer team has carefully transferred the documents into acid-free boxes, then page-by page, put them into acid-free folders, according to a description of the work, to keep them from further deterioration. The documents have needed gentle handling; some were to the point where they were falling apart, Dr. Huyck previously reported. Swem Library at the school also has digitized the material so it can be available to scholars and the public on the college’s website. “The stories of Maggie Walker and others like her are lost every day,” Dr. Huyck told USA today in a 2016 interview in describing the importance of the work. “If we don’t have the documents, the history we write is made up and not real. We need to find and preserve them before they are gone,” she said. “That’s where the collection becomes so important,” she said in a 2013 interview for a William & Mary publication. “It tells us things not available anywhere else.” Such documents are not easy to come by. The Order of St. Luke continued for several decades after Mrs. Walker’s death in 1934, but many of its documents were lost after it was shut down. Even the bank she founded is no more. Later known as Consolidated Bank & Trust Co., it continued until 2011 when its charter was withdrawn during its merger with the current owner, Premier Bank of West Virginia. Connie Cook-Hudson, one of the volunteers who took part in the preservation work, once told a reporter the documents show “how wonderful a woman she was in her time, dealing with business matters and helping her community get established.” The papers, she said, are “like you’re reading a book about a great woman.”

Richmond Free Press

James River dam near Pony Pasture

Editorial Page

March 2-4, 2017

Mis-education Don’t let President Trump fool you. Sure, he met with presidents of historically black colleges and universities earlier this week. But what really is the result of the meeting? We believe little more than a photo op with “the blacks,” as he insultingly calls us, and an executive order designed to give Omarosa Manigault, his chief of African-American relations, a job by moving the White House Initiative on HBCUs back under the auspices of the White House. Perhaps a photo with the esteemed HBCU presidents was President Trump’s way of remembering there is a Black History Month, and it is February. His top staffer, Kellyanne Conway, demonstrated little regard for the illustrious group when she kicked off her shoes and tucked her feet up under her on the sofa in the Oval Office to check her cellphone like she was at home at a coffee klatch with her girlfriends. President Trump’s secretary of education, Betsy DeVos, also showed she has no clue when it comes to HBCUs or their needs. Following Monday’s meeting, she issued a statement lauding HBCUs and their history of providing “more options” for African-American students. More options? Ms. DeVos clearly doesn’t know that HBCUs were the only option for generations of AfricanAmericans who sought further education. Public and private colleges, particularly throughout the South, refused to admit African-Americans. HBCUs like Virginia Union, Virginia State, Norfolk State and Hampton universities sprang up because white people didn’t believe in educating AfricanAmericans. These schools did for our community what white elected and appointed officials and others never wanted — our advancement. According to the United Negro College Fund, HBCUs produce 70 percent of all black dentists and doctors, 50 percent of black engineers and public schoolteachers and 35 percent of black lawyers. And while HBCUs account for only 3 percent of the nation’s colleges, they account for about 20 percent of the degrees awarded to African-Americans. So the Secretary of Mis-education needs to learn some lessons of her own, along with her boss. Support for HBCUs, including money for scholarships, research, faculty salaries and support, is critical as we move into the next decade. Instead of President Trump using the meeting with college presidents to announce financial support for HBCUs, more money for research and development at institutions across the nation and increased dollars for tech transfer efforts to integrate into U.S. daily life the intellectual discoveries spawned by college campuses, he disappoints with his first budget pronouncements made during Tuesday night’s televised address before Congress. He said he wants an additional $52 billion for defense spending, a 10 percent increase; money to put more police in cities such as Chicago to combat crime, like an occupying force; and millions of dollars to hire 10,000 new immigration, customs enforcement and border control agents to protect the nation’s borders. In reality, they will be more like the “slave catchers” in days of old, working to round up and deport the very people who work hard on the construction projects and in the farms, fields, hotels and restaurants owned by President Trump and many of the wealthy people who supported him in November. We call upon the public to resist — to contact the White House, your representatives in Congress and the House and Senate leadership and tell them where you think your tax dollars should go. We believe public monies would be better spent on funding HBCUs, education at all levels and more forward-looking projects to advance the nation and the good of its people. Remember resistance is freedom, including the right to free speech, freedom of assembly, freedom to practice any religion and to petition the government for a redress of any grievance. Each of those rights is defined and protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Let President Trump, his cabinet and Congress know what the budget priorities should be. It’s your right.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Finding the future in the past This is a proud moment in Virginia history. It is a rare occasion when a state legislature passes two bills to propel and preserve the history of AfricanAmericans. That is what the General Assembly has done. I thank all those who played a role big and small to secure the passage of: • House Bill 1547, which provides funding for neglected cemeteries, and • House Bill 2296 that tasks the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities with identifying, preserving, protecting and promoting African-American sites with support from a 12-member task force that will include experts and citizens. Through these two historic bills, we can truly begin to

honor the contributions of African-Americans in the commonwealth. In the former capital of the Confederacy, we now will be able to protect the graves of the giants who came before us: Maggie L. Walker, John Mitchell Jr., A.D. Price, the Rev. Andrew Bowler and so

Delores L. McQuinn many others. As a result of this legislation, no longer will we see the graves of Evergreen and East End cemeteries where they are desecrated by debris, trash and overgrown weeds. No longer will our dead be dismissed as insignificant. No longer will the preservation of African-American history be considered an afterthought. This legislation means that our state is investing in the legacy of African-American culture.

Our children now will have the ability to trace their history and visit the graves of their ancestors. They now will find value in themselves as they look back to the greatness of their family’s past. House Bill 1547 names two cemeteries, East End and Evergreen, but we have established a precedent that could benefit the many forgotten and neglected African-American gravesites in Virginia where the first African-American statesmen, physicians, professors and business leaders lie in degrading conditions due to financial neglect and segregation. We have opened the door for our forgotten forebears to be remembered in the most honorable way through the identification, preservation and conservation of historic sites. We will honor them by identifying the contributions of African-Americans to Virginia, the nation and the world.

Charter schools an alternative

The Virginia General Assembly has taken an important step. For the first time, it has approved bills to expand public charter schools that will address the poor performance predominantly of students from low-income households. The issue has now landed on the desk of Gov. Terry McAuliffe, and he should sign the bill. The effectiveness of quality charter schools is what has led black leaders across the country, from Mayor Kevin Johnson of Sacramento, Ca., to United Negro College Fund CEO Michael Lomax to advocate for charters. And with good reason. Charter schools are immensely popular among black families. According to a national public opinion survey of parents of school-age children, 82 percent of black parents believe that all parents should have the ability to choose their child’s public school, regardless of where they live. In just the past five years, black student enrollment in charter schools has grown by 200,000. Black students now account for 27 percent of charter school enrollment versus just 16 percent of traditional district school enrollment. Black Virginians are no different. In a poll conducted last year by the respected Alexandria-based Republican strategic research and polling firm Tarrance Group, 67 percent of black respondents favored more charter schools. More importantly, they favored important elements not found

in public schools. Ninety-five percent favor requiring more parental involvement; 90 percent favor giving schools more freedom to hire the best teachers and 81 percent favor rewarding high quality teachers with higher pay. There is a reason for en-

Antione Green thusiastic support in the black community around the country. Parents see for themselves how their children are flourishing in charter schools. According to the most thorough and respected study of charter school results, conducted by the Center for Research on Education Outcomes at Stanford University, black students learn more when they attend charter schools. Black students in charter schools gained the equivalent of 14 extra days of learning in reading and 14 extra days of learning in math per year compared with their black peers in traditional district schools. For black students from lowincome households attending charter schools, the learning gains were even more dramatic — the equivalent of 29 extra learning days in reading and 36 extra learning days in math. Just 93 miles away in our nation’s capital, where public school enrollment and the student demographic profile is similar to Richmond, Petersburg, Norfolk and Portsmouth, parents are choosing public charter schools. In fact, charters are the fastest growing public school option for D.C. parents. Black children in Virginia would benefit from such effective schools. Fifty-five percent of unaccredited schools in

Virginia are in predominantly low-income black communities. Some schools in those communities have been unaccredited for up to 11 years. But black parents here in Virginia are not given any other options. Children have only one choice — a one-size-fits-all option that often fails to meet the needs of children. In the words of charter school founder Sean “Diddy” Combs, “We have to prepare our kids for the realities of what’s out there.” The National Urban League historically has advocated for education equity and highquality public school options. In recent years, it has played a key role in starting successful charter schools. As a Virginia member, nothing would make me prouder than to play a similar role here. But successful charter school operators simply will not come to Virginia. Here, they do not have the right to manage their own schools. Local school boards have proven downright inhospitable or hostile and, when they have approved what they call a “charter school,” it is often without the flexibility to best help an underserved population. More than 6,000 charter schools today serve nearly 3 million students, more than a million of whom are children of color. Virginia has a total of nine charter schools, and its ability to help the children who need it most is sorely limited. By signing the charter school bill, Gov. McAuliffe would open a new door to underserved children, a door that would help )black students who deserve a better opportunity. The writer is a former president of the Richmond Crusade for Voters.

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

Every person who contributed to this process can be considered a brick that is dependable and resilient. We are linked together by the cement of love and the stable structure of preservation. And brick by brick, we have paved a lasting “bridge of history” forever linking our tumultuous past to our bright future. Now our children will be able to safely cross the bridge of exploration and discovery to view the history of our ancestors. I pray that they examine the intentionality of each brick as they find a piece of themselves in our beautiful history. The writer represents the 70th District in the Virginia House of Delegates, which includes parts of Richmond and Henrico and Chesterfield counties. She also is chair of the Richmond Slave Trail Commission.

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Richmond Free Press

March 2-4, 2017

Letters to the Editor

Lack of equality even in death Re “Righting grave wrongs: Virginia General Assembly approves funds for 2 area historic African-American cemeteries; state has been paying for upkeep of Confederate graves for 100 years,” Feb. 23-25 edition: As a Richmond native, I found this article extremely interesting but not hard to believe. This is a clear indication and example of the prolonged issue of racism and degradation of minority groups, speciﬁcally African-Americans. It is painful to know that even in death, there is still a lack of equality and concern for the well-being of black people.

After reading this article, I did a search to compare the two cemeteries against a predominantly white cemetery in Richmond. I instantly saw more plant life than headstones and many destroyed headstones at East End and Evergreen cemeteries. Some pictures even featured exposed human remains casually lying next to headstones. However, in the pictures of Hollywood Cemetery, I noticed ﬁne and intact headstones beautifully overlooking Downtown. According to the article, many people think it’s such a “great” thing that the government has ﬁnally approved funding

for these two cemeteries. Though I agree, I am still distraught by how long it took for these historically African-American cemeteries to even get this attention, while also doubting that they will receive as much funding as the “Confederate soldiers, whose graves the state has paid private groups to tend for 100 years.” DAIJA LITTLE Harrisonburg The writer is a student at James Madison University.

‘People will not allow attacks on democracy to go unopposed’ As the ﬁnal days of this year’s Black History Month coincide with the adjournment of Virginia’s 2017 General Assembly session, I see glimmers of hope for a bright future in the Commonwealth. Surely, Virginia has a long way to go before we can say that she unanimously stands for the common good of all people. However, the silver lining I found throughout this legislative session is that her people will not allow attacks on democracy to go unopposed. I saw legislators and community members, Democrats and Republicans, Libertarians and independents, black, white, Latino and Asian

people, Ph.D.s and no degrees being driven by justice — working to be different and better than her founding fathers, who saw Africans as subhumans and enslaved them to Jamestown in 1619. Concerned individuals from across the state packed committee rooms in protest against bills that sought to dehumanize and disenfranchise citizens returning to the community after incarceration, like Sen. Thomas K. Norment Jr.’s bill, SJR 223, and bills that sent a xenophobic, unwelcoming and hostile message to immigrants, such as Delegate Charles Poindexter’s HB 2000.

Both bills harken back to Virginia’s dark history of Jim Crow, intolerance and exclusion — an era that those who worship the Confederate ﬂags outside of their cars and homes may be proud of, but is an era that those of us who believe in equality and justice abhor. Fortunately, the insidious SJR 223 died. However, HB 2000, died but was revived in a shady fashion and is headed to the desk of Gov. Terry McAuliffe where, hopefully, it will be vetoed. As a descendent of enslaved people, I know that the formerly incarcerated, as well as undocumented people, deserve the pursuit of life, liberty and justice because every human being

does. After witnessing multitudes of people marching on Capitol grounds, hearing chants from civic engagement organizations and hosting meetings with unlikely allies these last two months, I know that many others agree. As James Weldon Johnson wrote in “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” “... Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory is won.” QUAN WILLIAMS Richmond The writer is policy director for New Virginia Majority.

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General Assembly

A message from Senator Jennifer McClellan The 2017 General Assembly Session adjourned sine die Saturday, February 25th after completing work on thousands of bills and resolutions and closing a $1.26 billion shortfall in the budget. The $107 million budget adopted by the General Assembly avoids cuts to K-12 education, restores pay raises to state employees, provides the state share of a raise to teachers, and invests in mental health reform, while creating a $35 million cash reserve to be used to close future shortfalls. Three of my bills passed the General Assembly and now await action by the Governor. First, SB 1475 adds to the family life education curriculum age-appropriate information on the value of family relationships in addition to marriage and instruction that increases student awareness of the fact that consent is required before sexual activity. The bill also changes the focus of instruction from an individual avoiding sexual assault to deterrence of sexual assault. This bill builds on legislation passed last year to ensure the family life education curriculum include effective and evidence-based programs on the prevention of dating violence, domestic abuse, sexual harassment, and sexual violence. This bill was requested by student advocates from the Sexual Assault Resource Agency, which seeks to eliminate sexual violence and its impact by providing education, advocacy and support to men, women and children. Second, SB 1493 establishes a public-private partnership between Northern Virginia Community College and a Virginia-based entity to develop and implement computer science training and related professional development activities for Virginia public school teachers. Last year, Virginia became the first state in the nation to pass sweeping Computer Science education reform, mandating that every Virginia child will receive access to Computer Science literacy – to include coding – from Kindergarten through graduation. SB 1493 builds on that legislation by expanding and standardizing the necessary training for K-12 teachers and establishing an advisory committee to support the computer science training and professional development. This bill was requested by CodeVA, which provided training for over 600 K-12 teachers in over 50 percent of Virginia’s public school districts. This bill will ensure Virginia has the capacity to expand this training statewide. Third, SB 1494 establishes a legal framework to allow companies such as UZURV to pre-arrange rides with transportation network companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft, or to request specific drivers whom they designate as their favorites. This bill was requested by UZURV, which was founded and is headquartered here in Scott’s Addition, when it became clear the current TNC laws did not authorize a broker to arrange such rides. I worked with UZURV, DMV, UBER, Lyft, and the insurance industry to ensure the law provided the same consumer protections for individuals reserving rides through UZURV as the current TNC law provides for customers directly using UBER and Lyft. The Governor has until midnight, March 27th to sign, amend, or veto these and the over 800 bills that passed this session. On Wednesday, April 5th, the General Assembly will return for Reconvened Session to consider the Governor's amendments and vetoes. I look forward to providing an update on the Veto Session. I hope you have enjoyed these General Assembly Updates. It is never too early to start thinking of legislation for the 2018 session! If you have any ideas, know of any ■ Endorthe inconvenience of empty newspaper individuals organizations that should be commended next boxes, year, or fighting need assistance on any state government matter, please do notback hesitate to contact me at (804) 698the weather and hunting down copies. 7509■■or Also, district09@senate.virginia.gov. the meantime, sign up forfor support the Free Press. We’re alwaystoworking you.updates End the inconvenience of In empty newspaper boxes,email fighting or learn how you can follow me on social media, visit www.jennifermcclellan.com.

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Richmond Free Press

A8 March 2-4, 2017

Sports Stories by Fred Jeter

VUU returns from CIAA in trail of tears Virginia Union University rode a wave of well-earned optimism to the CIAA Basketball Tournament in Charlotte, N.C. Its return to Richmond was amid a trail of tears. A stunning 84-78 quarterfinal upset loss to Bowie State University spoiled the party for No. 1 seeded Northern Division winner VUU. Talk about reversals. That’s the same Bowie State team (fourth seed in the CIAA Northern Division) that VUU routed 100-68 on Feb. 8. With the Panthers’ CIAA goals squashed, Coach Jay Butler’s team must play the waiting

CIAA photo coverage on B8

Photos by Ayasha Sledge

Bowie State University’s Yohance Fleming goes up for a basket against Virginia Union University’s Tavon Mealy, left, during last Thursday’s quarterfinal game at the CIAA Tournament. Bowie State knocked VUU out of the tournament, defeating the Panthers 8478. The Bulldogs went on to win the tournament 62-54 over Fayetteville State University.

CIAA Basketball Tournament results

Virginia Union University men’s team Lost in quarterfinals to Bowie State University 84-78 Virginia State University men’s team Defeated Winston-Salem State University 78-66 Lost in semifinals to Fayetteville State University 70-61 Virginia Union University women’s team Defeated Winston-Salem State University 68-54 Lost in semifinals to Johnson C. Smith University 81-75 Virginia State University women’s team Defeated St. Augustine’s University 73-40 Defeated Livingstone College 66-61 Defeated Lincoln University 59-51 Lost in finals to Johnson C. Smith University 68-59

game to see if the season will continue or be put quietly to bed. NCAA Division II Tournament selections will be announced Sunday, March 5. As of last week, VUU was ranked seventh in the Atlantic Region – but that was before Charlotte. Clearly, the Panthers are atop the uncomfortable bubble as far as making the eight-school regional tournament set for March 11, 12 and 14, likely in West Virginia. Much will depend on the results this weekend from Division II conference playoffs involving West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Maryland schools. Only CIAA champ Bowie State University, which won four games in four days at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, is assured of moving on. Bowie State, now 16-14, defeated host Johnson

C. Smith University, VUU, Livingstone College and Fayetteville State University in order to claim the top prize. Virginia State University, the 2016 CIAA champion, remains among the other teams wishing and hoping for an NCAA invite. VSU was ninth in the most recent Atlantic Region poll. In Charlotte, Coach Lonnie Blow’s Trojans defeated Winston-Salem State University 78-66, but lost 70-61 in the semifinals to Fayetteville State University. Both VUU and VSU have rested their NCAA cases with strong résumés. The Panthers are 22-7 and have won 14 of the last 17 games in Coach Butler’s second season. In Coach Blow’s fourth season in Ettrick, the Trojans are 22-8. The Charlotte trip started well for both VUU and VSU. At the CIAA Tipoff Awards Banquet in Charlotte on Wednesday, Feb. 22, the Trojans’ Elijah Moore, Richard Granberry and Kevin Williams were all named All-CIAA. That same day, VUU’s Ray Anderson was named CIAA Player of the Year and Coach Butler was named Coach of the Year. Little did anyone suspect that the individual honors soon would be followed by “disappointment of the year.”

Despite loss, Lady Panthers still favored to make NCAA Atlantic Region field Virginia Union University’s women’s basketball team hit a speed bump but probably not a dead end at the CIAA Tournament in Charlotte, N.C. The Lady Panthers lost 81-75 in a semifinal game to eventual champion Johnson C. Smith University at the Spectrum Center. VUU, now 23-4 after starting the season 18-0, was ranked No. 12 nationally in the NCAA Division II and No. 2 in the Atlantic Region behind California University of Pennsylvania last week. Coach AnnMarie Gilbert’s squad remains a heavy favorite to make the eight-team Atlantic Region field, but its chances of hosting have been reduced. NCAA selections will be announced Sunday, March 5. The regional tournament is set for March 10, 11 and 13.

After eliminating the Lady Panthers in the CIAA Tournament, hometown favorite Johnson C. Smith then defeated Virginia State University 68-59 in the finals to earn the conference’s automatic NCAA bid. That could set up a possible VUU-Johnson C. Smith rematch on the regional level. Johnson C. Smith’s women’s coach is Steve Joyner Jr., son of Johnson C. Smith’s men’s coach, Steve Joyner Sr. Coach Joyner Jr. becomes the first to have played on a CIAA championship team and to have served as head coach for CIAA champions. Joyner Jr. played under his father on the Bulls’ 2001 championship team. Coach Joyner Sr. is a former VUU assistant men’s coach under the late Robert Moore.

Virginia Union University’s Lady Walker and Johnson C. Smith University’s Cynthia N’Dri go up for the ball in the CIAA semifinal game last Friday. The Golden Bears ultimately defeated the Lady Panthers 81-75.

VCU ready for 7th consecutive bid to NCAAs Barring an unlikely late season collapse, the Virginia Commonwealth University Rams are primed for a seventh straight trip to the NCAA playoffs. That clearly places the Rams with college basketball’s royalty. Coach Will Wade’s squad began this week with a 23-6 record and, more importantly, an RPI power rating around 30 out of 347 Division I schools. Only the University of Kansas, which has gone to the NCAAs 27 straight times, Duke University, 21 times, Michigan State University, 19 times, Gonzaga University and the University of Wisconsin, 18 each, have longer unbroken strings of NCAA invitations. In the midst of another outstanding season, the Rams’ nine-game winning streak ended last Saturday with a 69-59 loss at the University of Rhode Island.

The Rams will close their regular season and celebrate Senior Day on Saturday, March 4, against visiting George Mason University at 2 p.m. in Richmond. The current senior crop of Mo Alie-Cox, Jordan Burgess, JeQuan Lewis, Doug Brooks, Ahmed Coach Wade Hamdy-Mohamed and Torey Burston has compiled 100 victories over four years. Their talents are well rewarded by a loyal fan following. Against George Mason, they will compete before a 99th consecutive sold out crowd at the Siegel Center. Lewis is an Atlantic 10 Player of the Year candidate and certainly an All-A-10 pick. The Atlantic 10 Tournament champ receives

Rams in the home stretch Saturday, March 4 Senior Day Virginia Commonwealth University plays George Mason University. Tipoff: 2 p.m. at the Siegel Center; game to be broadcast on MASN. Atlantic 10 Tournament March 8 through 12 at the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh

an automatic bid to the 68-team NCAAs. Regardless of how VCU does during the A-10 Tournament in Pittsburgh, VCU would seem a likely NCAA qualifier. The Rams have been to the NCAAs a total of 15 times, five times under former coaches J.D.

George Wythe, John Marshall will enjoy hometown advantage in state tournament Richmond’s George Wythe and John Marshall high schools will need no GPS to guide them to the State 3A basketball tournament. The Bulldogs (20-7) and the Justices (19-6) will enjoy a hometown advantage when the tournament commences this week at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Siegel Center. “It’s a beautiful thing,” said John Marshall Coach Ty White. “I’d like to think it gives us an advantage, and we want to make a nice showing,” said George Wythe Coach Willard Coker. For the quarterfinals on Thursday, March 2, third seeded John Marshall will play Northside High School of Roanoke at 5:15 p.m. and No. 2 seed George Wythe will face Heritage High School of Lynchburg at 8:35 p.m. at the Siegel Center. No. 1 seed Phoebus High School

of Hampton takes on Western Albemarle High School of Crozet and Spotswood High School of Rockingham County plays defending 3A champion I.C. Coach Coker Norcom High School of Portsmouth. The semifinal games will be played at 5:15 and 8:45 p.m. on Friday, March 3, with the championship game 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 10, at the Siegel Center. Both John Marshall and George Wythe have fond memories of the 7,600-seat Siegel Center, a mere 10-minute bus ride from each high school. John Marshall won the state

title at “The Stu” in 2014. George Wythe prevailed on the same court in 2015. John Marshall lost in the state semifinals last year to juggernaut I.C. Norcom High. Coach White Hopewell High School, which is in the same Conference 26 as John Marshall and George Wythe, was the runner-up to Norcom High a year ago. John Marshall boasts the Conference 26 Player of the Year Greg Jones, plus freshman standout Isaiah Todd. The 6-foot-10 Todd is among the nation’s top-ranked ninth-graders. George Wythe, rich in talent and depth, also has a prized freshman in Ikechi Chantilou. The 6-foot-2 wing

has the makings of becoming a bona fide star in the mold of such former Bulldogs as Tyree Evans and Jesse Pellot-Rosa. “We don’t think of him (Ikechi) as a freshman anymore. He’s just a basketball player,” said Coach Coker. “He’s played some good games for us and we’re excited about what he can do moving on.” In last week’s 3A East Region playoffs, George Wythe defeated William Monroe High School of Stanardsville 62-52; and Norcom High, 52-50; before losing to Phoebus High 78-72. John Marshall defeated James Monroe High School of Fredericksburg 105-47; and Norcom High, 58-53; before losing to Phoebus 79-73. In a forgiving format that allows for postseason losses, the top four regional finishers advance to the state tournament.

Barnett and Shaka Smart, twice under Anthony Grant, once each under Sonny Smith and Jeff Capel and last year under Coach Wade. With the success comes some anxiety among the Rams’ legion of fans. The always grinding rumor mill has Coach Wade as a possible candidate for the soon-to-be vacant position at two-time, NCAA champion North Carolina State University in Raleigh. The Charlotte Observer published a story recently proclaiming Coach Wade as an ideal successor to Mark Gottfried. The ACC school has announced Coach Gottfried will not return. The Ram Nation is used to this. Coach Smart was hotly pursued after the Rams’ run to the NCAA Final Four in 2011. And coincidentally, N.C. State made the first serious offer to lure Coach Smart. Following the 2011 season, VCU made an effort to sweeten the pot to keep Coach Smart with plans for a $25 million Basketball Development Center. Coach Smart rejected N.C. State’s offer and those in other seasons from Marquette University, the University of Illinois and UCLA before leaving for the University of Texas following the 2015 season. Prior to Coach Smart’s exit, the Rams lost two coaches to Power Five Conferences – Coach Capel to the University of Oklahoma and Coach Grant to the University of Alabama. Coach Wade (48-17 at VCU) might also be a candidate for the job at another ACC school, Clemson University, where seventh-year Coach Brad Brownell is in hot water. Coach Wade is a 2005 graduate of Clemson, where he served as a graduate assistant coach from 2005-06 and director of basketball operations from 2006-07. A year ago, he was considered for a job at Vanderbilt University, but declined to pursue that post and signed a more lucrative deal at VCU. While VCU has blossomed into a top tier basketball program, there are some concerns about its ceiling of success. Since 1957, only Loyola University-Chicago (1963) and Marquette (1977) have won NCAA titles with schools that didn’t at least play FBS or FCS football. With that thought, VCU has emerged as the “Gonzaga of the East.” The Zags, without the benefit of football, are currently ranked No. 1 in the nation.

March 2-4, 2017 B1

Section

Richmond Free Press

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Keeping Richmond’s neighborhoods clean and litter free is about more than just aesthetics for Amy Elisabeth Robins. “If you live in a community where residents and children are walking through trash, that has a negative impact on quality of life,” she says. “Once-a-year cleanups don’t work,” she explains. “The effort needs to be consistent because it is easier for people to join in.” The native Richmonder, co-founder and volunteer coordinator of RVA Clean Sweep calls upon volunteers and uses social media to accomplish the monumental task of regular community cleanups. “We use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and meetup.com,” she says. A core group of 15 to 20 volunteers uses these platforms to schedule cleanup projects in specific neighborhoods and at Richmond parks. Lead volunteers first train with Ms. Robins to learn best practices on establishing a regular schedule, and then RVA Clean Sweep provides supplies and loans tools to volunteers. The ultimate goal is to maintain clean environments to reduce the amount of litter entering the James River. Ms. Robins started the nonprofit RVA Clean Sweep in 2014 with two friends who are fellow environmental health enthusiasts, Richmond photographer Dave Parrish and Natalie Cane. Ms. Robins says she is approached all the time by city residents seeking to clean up their neighborhoods. She guides them to work with their neighborhood organization to bring attention to the need for a cleanup and she explains how RVA Clean Sweep can help and establish a sustainable effort. Ms. Robins’ efforts to preserve and maintain Richmond’s beauty does not stop with her organization. She also volunteers with Richmond Tree Stewards, an organization that works year-round to maintain the city’s tree population by planting in the fall, pruning when needed and educating the public about the relevance and necessity of trees. “Trees reduce stress and produce a cooling effect,” Ms. Robins says. Mature trees can increase curb appeal and value of a property, decrease heating and cooling bills and improve water quality. She says that reducing litter, preserving the environment and properly caring for trees have physical and psychological impacts on residents and, like any health regimen, will not change overnight. “Litter is a long fight,” she says. “It requires continued efforts over time.” Meet this week’s Personality and “Queen of Clean,” Amy Elisabeth Robins: Occupation: Richmond City Council Liaison for 5th District City Councilman Parker C. Agelasto. Community involvement: Co-founder and volunteer coordinator, RVA Clean Sweep; Richmond Tree Stewards; and Randolph Neighborhood Association. Date and place of birth: June 26 in Richmond. Current residence: Randolph in the city’s West

Belle Isle, North Bank, Flood Wall, Ancarrow’s Landing, Great Shiplock Park, Capital Trail and Canoe Run Park. Biggest RVA Clean Sweep challenges: Litterers in vehicles. They commit their crime and drive away without any thought. The neighborhoods are left with the mess and unable to have an open dialogue to help change the habit.

End. Alma maters: Associate degree, J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College; bachelor’s in environmental studies and master’s in water policy, Virginia Commonwealth University. Family: Wife, Katy Robins. When RVA Clean Sweep was founded: On May 11, 2014, as an all volunteer-run litter cleanup group. We are lucky and grateful for the support of supplies from the Richmond Clean City Commission. No. 1 objective: To reduce the amount of litter in the James River and Richmond neighborhoods through organized litter cleanups. To date, we have conducted more than 220 litter cleanups. Strategy for achieving it: We partner with neighborhood associations to encourage consistent monthly litter cleanups. We also partner with the James River Park System and the Richmond City Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities.

What Richmonders can do to contribute to a cleaner city: Do not allow litter to be a part of this city. If you see a piece of litter, pick it up. If you see someone littering, ask them to not litter. If you know someone who litters, have a conversation about why littering is wrong. Also, please praise someone if you see them picking up litter. We can see from crossing a street in one neighborhood to another where people feel it is appropriate or not appropriate to litter. Lastly, please understand litter is a long ﬁght. It’s a societal issue that won’t be solved with one cleanup but rather continued efforts over time.

work looked like. He also taught me and my brothers, “You always leave a place cleaner than you find it.” Favorite outdoor space: Anywhere close to flowing water that is litter free. Three words that best describe me: Friendly, determined and doer. No. 1 pet peeve: Littering. No. 2 pet peeve: Graffiti. No. 3 pet peeve: Drivers not using turn signals.

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Why I do this: I believe litter wears on people’s souls as much as it wears on the environment. Everyone may not consider Richmond a tourist city, but we are. I hate the idea of visitors coming to Richmond and leaving thinking we are a trashy city. Upcoming events: We have two cleanups in South Side and one in Fulton coming up in the next two weeks. Please visit our meetup page for the full calendar of dates and times at www.meetup.com/ RVA-Clean-Sweep. How to become a volunteer: Please find a cleanup on meetup and come on out! We provide all the supplies. Age of youngest volunteer: We have had parents come with infants strapped to them. Active youngest volunteer was probably 2 years old. We welcome children, however, we encourage them to come to the park cleanups rather than neighborhood cleanups because of car trafﬁc. Age of oldest volunteer: We generally don’t ask adult volunteers for their age, but I do know we had a 70-yearold volunteer on a recent weekend. Locations RVA Clean Sweep has cleaned: Neighborhoods include Randolph, Oregon Hill, Maymont, Uptown, Carytown South, Stadium, Beaufont, Swansboro, Manchester, Bellemeade, Blackwell, Scott’s Addition, Forest Hill Terrace, Forest View, Fulton, Newtowne and Northrop. Parks include Forest Hill Park, Carter Jones, Byrd Park, Petronious Jones, Texas Beach, Pony Pasture,

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B2 March 2-4, 2016

Richmond Free Press

Happenings ‘Moonlight’ wins Best Picture despite major flub at 89th Academy Awards ceremony Free Press staff, wire report

And the Oscar for Best Picture goes to … “La La Land.” Only, it did not. Nearly 33 million television viewers of the 89th Annual Academy Awards watched Sunday night as the wrong winner for the much-anticipated, final award was announced. The film, a musical about an aspiring actress and a jazz musician chasing their dreams in Los Angeles, had won six other Oscars earlier in the evening. As the film’s cast gathered on stage for acceptance speeches, producer Jordan Horowitz apparently was informed about the mix-up and handed an envelope bearing the name of the real winner. “This is not a joke,” he said. “ ‘Moonlight’ has won for best picture.” He snatched a card from the envelope and held it up to the audience. The audience in the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood was stunned. So were the real winners, who were prompted to come to the stage to accept their coveted Oscar statuettes. “Moonlight,” directed by Barry Jenkins, follows a young boy named Chiron through defining moments in his childhood, adolescence and adulthood as he grapples with his sexuality and identity among his peers. Grossing $22.3 million at U.S. theaters, the film is the smallest-grossing best picture winner since “The Hurt Locker” won in 2010, and the second-lowest since at least 1978, according to Box Office Mojo. “Very clearly, even in my dreams this could not be true,” Mr. Jenkins said in his acceptance speech. “But to hell with dreams! I’m done with it because this is true. Oh, my goodness.” Officials later said the error occurred when the wrong envelope was given to presenters Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, stars of the movie, “Bonnie

Danny Moloshok/Reuters

Lucy Nicholson/Reuters

“Moonlight” actor Mahershala Ali, left, shows his Oscar for Best Supporting Actor during the Vanity Fair party. Barry Jenkins, the director of “Moonlight,” holds his award aloft after learning the film actually won for Best Picture. Best Supporting Actress winner Viola Davis gives an emotional acceptance speech for her role in “Fences.”

and Clyde,” which was released 50 years ago. Global accounting ﬁrm PricewaterhouseCoopers was in charge of getting the right envelopes to the presenters. In a statement released Monday, the company said, “We sincerely apologize to ‘Moonlight,’ ‘La La Land,’ Warren Beatty, Faye Dunaway and Oscar viewers for the error that was made during the award announcement for Best Picture. We are currently investigating how this could have happened, and deeply regret that this occurred.” PwC has handled ballot counting for the iconic awards ceremony for 83 years. “Moonlight” stars Trevante Rhodes, André Holland, Janelle Monáe, Ashton Sanders, Naomie Harris and Mahershala Ali, who won Best Supporting Actor for his role as Juan. The ﬁlm is based on the play, “In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue,” by Tarell Alvin McCraney, who also wrote the screenplay with Mr. Jenkins. “Moonlight” also won the award for Best Adapted Screenplay. After the Academy of Motion Picture Arts

and Sciences faced a backlash last year for a lack of diversity among nominees, Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs told the audience that the global film community is “one that is becoming more inclusive and diverse with each passing day.” She noted that for the first time in three years, an actor of color was nominated in each of the four top acting categories. “Tonight is proof that art has no borders, no single language and does not belong to a single faith,” she said. “The power of art is that it transcends all these things.” The awards for supporting roles both went to African-American actors. In addition to Mr. Ali in “Moonlight,” Viola Davis won Best Supporting Actress for her role as Rose in the film adaptation of August Wilson’s play “Fences.” It was directed by Denzel Washington, who also played the starring role of Troy Maxson. “I became an artist, and thank God I did, because we are the only profession that celebrates what it means to live a life,” Ms. Davis said in her tearful acceptance speech.

Lucy Nicholson/Reuters

“So here’s to August Wilson who exhumed and exalted the ordinary people.” One of the evening’s highlights was the cast of “Hidden Figures,” whose starring actors Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Ms. Monáe presented the award for Best Documentary. When the trio came to the stage, they announced a surprise guest to help them — 98-year-old Katherine Johnson of Newport News, the brilliant NASA mathematician whose calculations charted the course for America’s space flights from the first man to orbit the Earth to the moon landing. Ms. Henson portrayed Mrs. Johnson in the film, which was nominated for three awards, including Best Picture. The Best Documentary award went to “O.J.: Made in America,” about O.J. Simpson’s life, produced by ESPN Films as part of their “30 for 30” series. Other significant awards included Best Actor and Actress, awarded to Casey Affleck for “Manchester by the Sea” and Emma Stone for “La La Land,” respectively, and Best Director to Damien Chazelle for “La La Land.”

Former NASA ‘hidden figure’ advises students to chart own course By Holly Rodriguez

living wage and minimum wage.” An incentive, she said, may be the fact that there are jobs in Silicon Valley with a starting salary of $200,000 or more and there is a shortage of qualiﬁed workers in technology ﬁelds. Pearl Estelle Amy Smith, a mathematician at Dahlgren Naval Surface Warfare Center in King George County for 31 years, said if there was discrimination in her workplace, it did not weigh her down. “I felt important,” she said. “I was working with people who needed my help.” When asked about work-life balance, Ms. Smith, a mother of four, said she struggled with it, as families do today. Becoming engaged in civic activities helped her, she said. “It’s important that you do more than just work, more than just one thing.”

Christine Darden was a student at Hampton University when she learned to chart her own path. She and her classmates would visit the school’s cafeteria together, and she decided that she needed to learn to go on her own. “I decided that I wasn’t going to wait, and to go whenever I wanted,” she said. She credits the conscious decision to not wait for permission from others as the reason she advanced both in her educational Photos by Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press goals and her career field. Dr. Christine Darden, left, a retired aeronautical engineer, In 1967, the same year the U.S. Supreme shares her experiences working for 40 years at NASA’s Court struck down miscegenation laws that Pearl Estelle Amy Smith, a mathematician for 31 years at Naval Langley Research Center in Hampton during Sunday’s prohibited interracial marriage, Dr. Darden Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren, panel sponsored by the Black History Museum and started working at NASA Langley Research says she made professional Cultural Center of Virginia. With her is journalist Michael Center in Hampton. She was among a group sacrifices to benefit her family. Paul Williams, who moderated the panel. of African-American mathematicians, scientists and engineers who would break through racial barriers in the workplace. The women are subjects of the New York Times best-selling book, “Hidden Figures” by Margo Lee Shetterly. The Academy Award-nominated movie of the same name is based on the book, however Dr. Darden is not portrayed in the film. Speaking last Sunday to nearly 250 people at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Jackson Ward, Dr. Darden said her interest in math and science began as a young child, but clicked in a geometry class in high school. The following year, the United States and Cordially Invites You to Russia were in a space race to put a man on the moon. Her 40-year career at NASA began with her working as a “human computer,” writing complex programs and tediously crunching numbers for engineers. “They would not tell you what the equations meant. They just told you to solve the problems based on these variables,” she said. Dr. Darden had the courage to inquire why her white, male counterparts at NASA with credentials similar to hers were promoted to the engineering department, while women of color were not. “The answer I was given was ‘We’ve never been asked that question before,’ ” she said. “And I responded, ‘Well, I’m asking it now.’ ” Impressed with the inquiry, Dr. Darden’s supervisor promoted her, and her first project was to create a computer program for Friday, April 7, 2017 | Reception 6:00 p.m. | Elegant Dining 7:00 p.m. sonic boom. The project, she said, launched her career in working with The Richmond Marriott Hotel | 500 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia sonic boom minimization, a specialty she focused on for the next 25 years. Live Entertainment | Dancing | A Black-Tie Affair, Mask Optional Dr. Darden went on to author more than 50 publications. Reserved Seating for Sponsors | Individual Tickets $200 ($75 tax-deductible) Prior to her career in research, Dr. Darden taught math for three years, two of them at high schools in Brunswick County For more information: www.VUU.edu | 804.342.3938 and Portsmouth. While working on her master’s degree in applied mathematics at Virginia State University, she taught an introductory freshman math course there. Her experience helped feed her appreciation for teachers, whom she credits with helping to steer the direction of her career. PRESENTING SPONSOR: “We should be appreciating and supporting our teachers more,” she said in an interview following the event. “A teacher’s enthusiasm can make you love or hate a subject. I, myself, have had classes where I came out disliking the subject when it may not have really been the subject but the teacher.” Members of the audience asked Dr. Darden how parents can get students of color enthusiastic about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and whether students with limited interest in math and science should be guided in the direction MARRIOTT | KINGS DOMINION | THOMPSON HOSPITALITY of math and science anyway. She said one way to inspire students is through dollars and BANK OF AMERICA | WELLS FARGO cents. “Sometimes young people don’t know what they like until they are exposed to it,” Dr. Darden responded. “And (when it comes to careers), they don’t understand the difference between

VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY

— 5th ANNUAL —

SCHOLARSHIP GALA and MASQUERADE BALL Hosted by The Honorable Levar Stoney

Richmond Free Press

March 2-4, 2017

Happenings

Photos by Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Scholar and activist Angela Y. Davis, right, and Tressie McMillan Cottom, a Virginia Commonwealth University assistant professor, react to a member of the audience during Dr. Davis’ appearance last Friday as the Afrikana Independent Film Festival’s 2nd Annual “Evening with an Icon.” The event at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts was sold out, with lines of people waiting to get in to see Dr. Davis and the documentary about her life, “Free Angela and All Political Prisoners.”

Icon Angela Y. Davis unleashes her thoughts on Trump, Clinton and future By Brian Palmer

The election of Donald Trump as the nation’s 45th president “was the future we really dreaded,” said scholar and activist Angela Y. Davis. His campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again,” was merely code for “make America white supremacist again,” she said. “We have to resist and prevent the Donald Trump project from reaching its realization.” Dr. Davis, now a distinguished professor emerita at the University of California-Santa Cruz, made her remarks to a packed audience at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts last Friday, where she energized the multiracial, multigenerational crowd. She was in Richmond for a series of engagements that culminated with the Afrikana Independent Film Festival’s 2nd Annual “Evening with an Icon” held at the VMFA. The event, co-sponsored by Virginia Commonwealth University, Croaker’s Spot restaurant and artist S. Ross Browne, featured a screening of the documentary, “Free Angela Davis and All Political Prisoners,” followed by a conversation between Dr. Davis and Tressie McMillan Cottom, an assistant professor of sociology at VCU. “Black people must understand that this is an attack on all of us,” Dr. Davis said of President Trump’s rhetoric and policies. “Racism is racism. And the Islamophobia that we’re witnessing now is growing on the terrain that has been created by so many decades and centuries of anti-black racism and anti-indigenous racism,” she continued. “I think this is a time to recognize that all of us must stand with the most vulnerable populations.” Now 73, the noted radical thinker, feminist and former mostwanted fugitive was nearly as critical of President Trump’s Democratic opponent. “Hillary Clinton relied on feminism during her campaign, but it was the wrong kind of feminism.” It was, said Dr. Davis, “obsolete, bourgeois white feminism.” Candidate Clinton’s repeated use of the term “glass ceiling” betrayed a bias toward a group of women that was “already at the very top.” These times call for a different kind of feminism, she said, one that embraces women left out of that formulation.

Rihanna named Harvard University Humanitarian of the Year

ting

Historian Elvatrice Belsches will talk about the lives of four trailblazing AfricanAmerican women 1 p.m. Saturday, March 4, in the auditorium of the Richmond Public Library’s Main Branch, 101 E. Franklin St. in Downtown. The title of her multimedia presentation: “Monuments of Virtue, Pillars of Grace: A Celebration of the Lives of Dr. Sarah G. Jones M.D., Elizabeth Keckly, Virginia Randolph and Maggie L. Walker.” The women will be among 12 whose bronze statues are slated to be placed at the Virginia Women’s Monument in Capitol Square. Ms. Belsches Dr. Jones of Richmond, who died in 1905, was one of the first women to pass the Virginia Medical Examining Board’s test to become a physician. She was instrumental in establishing a hospital and nursing school in 1902 that became Richmond Community Hospital. Ms. Keckly, who was born in Dinwiddie in 1818, was a dress designer who bought her freedom. She later became the dress

100Years

for

Dr. Jones

Ms. Keckly

designer and confidante to Mary Todd Lincoln when her husband, Abraham Lincoln, was president. Ms. Keckly established the Contraband Relief Association in Washington, which provided support for newly freed slaves and wounded soldiers. Ms. Randolph, a nationally known educator, was born in 1870 and based in Henrico County. She led a program to guide and provide vocational training and strengthening school curricula throughout the South. She also founded the first Arbor Day program in Virginia. Ms. Walker, who died in 1934, was the first African-American woman to found and become president of a chartered bank in the United States. She founded the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in Richmond and was an admired businesswoman and newspaper publisher.

Ms. Walker

Ms. Belsches is a historical researcher, author and lecturer who has served as a special projects researcher for the National Park Service, The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar and the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. She has been a historical consultant on several documentaries and was the writer and historical researcher for the film, “The Life and Times of Elizabeth Keckly,” directed by Tim Reid. She also was an in-studio historical researcher on director Steven Spielberg’s motion picture “Lincoln.” Following her presentation, she will be signing copies of her newly updated publication, “Black America Series: Richmond, Virginia.” Additional information: email elvatrice. belsches@richmond.edu

A Mother’s Love

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is ﬂeeting; But a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. 31 Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Proverbs 31:30-31

REVIZER WILKINS ROBERTSON

was born on Sunday, February 25, 1917 in Halifax County, North Carolina. She is the eighth of 12 children born to Albert and Maggie Wilkins. Revizer was married to the late Freddie Robertson, Sr. and is the mother of 7 sons. Revizer has been a member of Cedar Street Baptist Church since the 1960’s.

Ms. Randolph

Revizer Wilkins Robertson

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. Rihanna has been named the 2017 Harvard University Humanitarian of the Year. The Grammy Award-winning singer received the Harvard Foundation’s Peter J. Gomes Humanitarian Award at a ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 28. Rihanna is being honored for Rihanna several philanthropic efforts. She built a state-of-the-art center for oncology and nuclear medicine to diagnose and treat breast cancer in her home nation of Barbados. She also created the Clara and Lionel Foundation Scholarship Program — named for her grandparents — for students attending college in the United States from Caribbean countries. She also supports the Global Partnership for Education and Global Citizen Project to provide children with access to education in more than 60 developing countries.

Previous winners include actor James Earl Jones, activist Malala Yousafzai and four U.N. secretaries general.

“I remember when I was the age of the young people you’re referring to. We didn’t ask the elders what we should do,” Dr. Davis said. She and her peers needed to find their own way. Today, elders — Dr. Davis included herself in that category — should encourage young people “to find their own passion, to do the work, to experiment, to be imaginative, to be innovative, even though they may make mistakes.” “Where do we go from here?” Dr. Cottom asked Dr. Davis toward the end of the event. “You know, that’s not a simple question,” Dr. Davis replied. “I would suggest that you find something that you’re passionately involved with and figure out how to sustain it” over “decades and decades.” “We have to learn how to imagine ourselves when we’re no longer here, imagine our worlds when we’re no longer here. In that context, this little incident with Donald Trump is just a little drop in the bucket.”

Presentation on African-American women trailblazers Saturday at Main Library Downtown

Associated Press

“The feminist work that needs to be done is also work that men need to do,” she added. Dr. Davis reflected on the historical moment covered in the film, her transition in the early 1970s from radical academic to high-profile defendant in a California murder trial to a leader in the black liberation struggle. She covered the major themes of her life’s work — racism and social justice, feminism and gender justice, mass incarceration and the prison-industrial complex. Dr. Davis spoke not just about the past and present, but also the future. She had general suggestions for people working for social change and justice, but resisted offering a checklist of recommended actions and organizations — something she might have done 40 years ago, she said. “I feel somewhat awkward being placed in the position of telling young people what to do today,” Dr. Davis responded to Dr. Cottom, who asked how today’s young “organizers and radical thinkers” should begin their work.

The honorable Frank Thornton, Fairﬁeld District representative on the Board of Supervisors for Henrico County, recognizes Mrs. Robertson on her 100th birthday celebration.

A mother’s love is like an island in life’s ocean vast and wide – A peaceful, quiet shelter from the rest less, rising tide. A mother’s love is like a fortress, and we seek protection there When the waves of tribulation seem to drown us in despair. A mother’s love is a sanctuary where our souls can ﬁnd sweet rest From the struggle and the tension of life’s fast and futile quest. A mother’s love is like a tower rising far above the crowd, And her smile is like t he sunshine breaking through a threatening cloud. A mother’s love is like a beacon burning bright with faith and prayer, And through the changing scenes of life we can ﬁnd a haven there. For a mother’s life is fashioned after God’s enduring love – It is endless and unfailing like the love of Him above. For God knew he couldn’t be everywhere, So He Put His Little Children In A loving Mother’s Care. — HELEN STEINER RICE

Richmond Free Press

B4 March 2-4, 2017

Faith News/Directory

Border agents ask Muhammad Ali’s son: Are you Muslim? Associated Press

U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine talks with Pope Francis during a general audience Feb. 21 at the Vatican.

Sen. Tim Kaine talks refugee crisis with Pope Francis Free Press staff report

While most congressional lawmakers headed home during last week’s break, U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine of Richmond responded to a higher calling. Sen. Kaine, a devout Roman Catholic who has attended Mass for decades at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, a largely AfricanAmerican parish in Richmond’s Highland Park, headed to Italy, where he spoke with Pope Francis in Vatican City. During the general audience, Sen. Kaine discussed with the pontiff the global refugee crisis and the plight of immigrants. Both have become major issues in the United States in the face of President Trump’s recent executive order shutting down refugee admissions and banning immigrants from seven predominantly Muslim nations from entering the country. (The order is on hold after federal courts in several states, including Virginia, halted its enforcement.) Sen. Kaine, who ran unsuccessfully for vice president in November on the ticket with President Trump’s Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, has spoken against the Muslim ban as unconstitutional and discriminatory. He and Virginia’s senior senator, Mark Warner, also have joined several other lawmakers in introducing a bill to rescind President Trump’s executive order, which the White House has said is being revamped to meet court objections. “As the pope states so clearly,” Sen. Kaine said after the audience, “it is a ‘moral imperative’ to protect and defend the ‘inalienable rights’ of refugees and respect their dignity, especially by adopting just laws that protect those fleeing dangerous or inhumane situations.” He called the relationship between the United States and the Holy See “tremendously important,” adding, “the work we are doing together to address issues such as refugees, human trafficking, conflict resolution and reconciliation helps us advance peace in the world as we try to end suffering and cooperate on issues of common good.” While at the Vatican, Sen. Kaine also met with Archbishop Paul Gallagher, foreign minister of the Holy See, and participated in a discussion on Latin American issues with Vatican officials. He also met with officials from the Jesuit Refugee Service to discuss its work with refugees and people seeking asylum. Sen. Kaine, who grew up in Kansas City, Mo., attended a Jesuit high school and interrupted his studies at Harvard Law School to spend a year working at a Jesuit mission school in Honduras.

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Zion Baptist Church



1408 W. eih Sree  ichmo a. 0 804 5840

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

8:45 a.m. 10 a.m.



Sunday, March 5, 2017 8:30 a.m. ... Sunday School 10:00 a.m... Morning Worship

Holy Communion

Pastor Kevin Cook

“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



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. 6:45 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

Dr. Robert L. Pettis, Sr., Pastor

Mar. 5, 2017

Sunday Service 10 a.m.

Join Us for Communion Sunday!

e ercies iisr  a.m. ul ile Su :0 p.m.

Transportation Services (804) 859-1985

ie oore Sree o

“Reclaiming the Lost by Proclaiming the Gospel”

Good Shepherd Baptist Church Dr. Sylvester T. Smith, Pastor “There’s A Place for You”

10:30 A.M.

Lenten Season

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

Dr. Kirkland R. Walton, Pastor

Worship Opportunities Sundays: Morning Worship Church School Morning Worship

2017 Theme: The Year of Elevation (First Peter 5:6)

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

Tuesdays

Noon Day Bible Study

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

New Deliverance Evangelistic Church

Bible Study: Tuesday - 9 a.m. Wednesday - 7 p.m. Prayer Services: Wednesday (1st & 3rd ) 7 a.m. Every Wednesday 8 p.m. Communion - 1st Sunday

THEME:

“The Urgency of Commitment”

Wednesdays

Baptist Church

Church School - 9:30 a.m. Worship Service - 11:15 a.m.

21st Founders’ and Church Anniversary

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

Mosby Memorial Street Baptist Church Thirty-first “A Caring Community Committed to Listening, Loving, Baptist Church Learning and Leaning While Launching into our Future.” C

2003 Lamb Avenue Dr. Arthur M. Jones, Sr., Pastor (804) 321-7622

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

Weekly Worship: Sundays @ 10:30 A.M. Church School: Sundays @ 9:00 A.M. Bible Study: Wednesdays @ Noon & 7:00 P.M.

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

Triumphant

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

ance with Re ev

Romans 12:1 (Phillips)

everence

ing Dr. Morris Henderson, Senior Pastor bin ❖

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

Third Sunday of Advent: “Love”

SUNDAYS

Richmond, VA 23223

Conference THEME:

Sanctuary - All Are Welcome!

MONDAY-FRIDAY Rev. Dr. Price L. Davis, Pastor Sunday, October 9, 2016 @ 2:30 P.M.

February 2017 Office (804)26, 226-0150 During Morning Worship… www.31sbc.org

M ith

Noonday Bible Study 12noon-1:00 p.m. Attendance

❖Grace, Goodness and Greatness Wednesday Evening Bible Study Saved by

Black History Celebration 823 North 31st Street

Annual Wom 9th ission & Purpose

Wednesday Services

❖

Nutrition Center and Clothes Closet 11:30 a.m. & Events 1:00 p.m. Upcoming

Friday, March 3 at 7:30 PM Sunday, March 5 at 9 AM

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

Church School 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. WEDNESDAYS Upcoming Events Bible Study th 12:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 109& Church Anniversary

.... give him your bodies, a living sacriﬁce, consecrated to him and acceptable to him ...

Rev. Darryl G. Thompson, Pastor

11:00 AM Mid-day Meditation

St. Peter Baptist Church

Sundays

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

1:30 p.m. Bible Study

1127 North 28th St., Richmond, VA 23223-6624 • Office: (804) 644-1402



Mount Olive Baptist Church

THURSDAYS

Holy Communion

1858

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

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

8:30 a.m. ... Sunday School 10:00 a.m... Morning Worship

Ebenezer Baptist Church

Wednesday Bible Study 7p.m.



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

“MAKE IT HAPPEN”

Church School 8:45 a.m.

1 p.m.

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.

Sharon Baptist Church

Early Morning Worship ~ 8 a.m. Sunday School ~ 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship ~ 11 a.m. 4th Sunday Uniﬁed Worship Service ~ 9:30 a.m. Bible Study: Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. & 7 p.m. Sermons Available at BRBCONLINE.org



ile Su

Broad Rock Baptist Church

2006 Decatur Street Richmond, VA 23224



Church School Worship Service

Muhammad Ali’s son, who bears the boxing great’s name, was detained by immigration officials at a Florida airport and questioned about his ancestry and religion in what amounted to unconstitutional profiling, a family friend said last week. Returning from a Black History Month event in Jamaica, Muhammad Ali Jr. and his mother, Khalilah Camacho Ali, were pulled aside and separated from each other on Feb. 7 at the immigration checkpoint at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, said Chris Mancini, a family friend and attorney. Ms. Camacho Ali was released a short time later after showing a photo of herself with her ex-husband, the former heavyweight boxing champion, Mr. Mancini said. But Mr. Ali was not carrying a photo of his world-famous father — a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Mr. Ali, 44, who confirmed his Muslim faith, was detained about two hours, despite telling officials that he was Muhammad Ali’s son and a native-born U.S. citizen, Mr. Mancini said. It was the first time Mr. Ali and his mother have ever been asked if they’re Muslim when re-entering the

was part of a profile,” Mr. Mancini said. Mr. Ali and his mother have been frequent global travelers. The family connects their treatment to President Trump’s efforts to restrict immigration after calling during his campaign for a ban on Muslims entering the United States. “This has never happened to them before,” Mr. Mancini said. “They’re asked specifically about their Arabic names, where they got their names from and whether they’re Muslims. It doesn’t take much to connect those dots to what Trump is doing.” Ms. Ali and Mr. Ali live in Florida. They have not traveled abroad since, and are considering filing a federal lawsuit, he said. Asked why the matter was just now coming to light, Mr. Mancini said: “Khalilah had prior commitments, as did I, and when she finally got in to see me for a legal opinion of what they did, I brought it to the media immediately.” Muhammad Ali, the three-time heavyweight champion and humanitarian, died last June at age 74 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. People lined the streets of Louisville, Ky., to say goodbye to the city’s most celebrated son before a star-studded memorial service watched worldwide.

Paul Haring/Catholic News Service

United States, he said. “From the way they were treated, from what was said to them, they can come up with no other rational explanation except they fell into a profiling program run by customs, which is designed to obtain information from anyone who says they’re a Muslim,” Mr. Mancini said in a phone interview. “It’s quite clear that what triggered his detention was his Arabic name and his religion.” U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokesman Daniel Hetlage confirmed last Saturday evening that Mr. Ali was held for questioning by customs officers, but said “it wasn’t because he’s a Muslim and it wasn’t because of his Arabic-sounding name.” The agency said in a statement that its officers process more than 1.2 million international travelers daily with “vigilance and in accordance with the law.” It said it does not discriminate based on religion, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation. “We treat all travelers with respect and sensitivity,” the agency stated. “Integrity is our cornerstone. We are guided by the highest ethical and moral principles.” During his detention, Mr. Ali was asked repeatedly about his lineage and his name, “as if that was a pre-programmed question that

Muhammad Ali Jr.

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Attendance

Saturday 8:30 a.m. Intercessory Prayer

You can now view Sunday Morning Service “AS IT HAPPENS” online! Also, for your convenience.

We will have Black History moments, a presentation from our Creative Arts Ministry and end the day with a shared meal.

Friday, April 21 and Saturday, April 22 at 9:00AM

In His Presence “Living For His Glory”

SCRIPTURE: For in Him we live, and move, and have our being. (Acts 17:28a NIV)

Visit www.ndec.net for more information and to register

Tune in on Sunday Morning to WTVR - Channel 6 - 8:30 a.m.

Richmond Free Press

March 2-4, 2017

Faith News/Obituary/Directory

Nat Turner links black, white George Wythe High alumni By Leah Hobbs

Long before the rebellion, Mr. Turner, who was able to read and write, was given a Bible. Nat Turner, who led one of the bloodiest It became a significant possession of his as he rebellions of enslaved people in history, has became a preacher. Passages also served as connected the members of the George Wythe his inspiration for the rebellion, according to High School Class of 1974 in a unique way. historical accounts. At a Black History Month Breakfast ProOnce the rebellion was suppressed, Mr. gram on Saturday at Second Baptist Church in Turner hid for two months. He was found with South Side, the George Wythe class presented his Bible and a sword, Mr. Person said. two speakers who personify the entwined hisAfter his trial and subsequent hanging, the tory of African-Americans and white people Bible was kept in the Southampton County in Virginia. courthouse until the court turned it over to the In this case, it was a descendant of Mr. Person family in 1912. The family kept the Bible Turner, a slave in Southampton County, and in their home, Mr. Person said, and passed it a descendant of white slave owners in the down through the generations. county who wound up generations later with With the opening of the new museum in Mr. Turner’s Bible. Washington, the Person famThe Rev. Torlecia Bates, a ily decided to donate it to the Turner descendant was raised in museum. The family, he said, Southampton County. Her father, believed that such a significant Torris Brooks, who didn’t attend piece of history needed to be the event, is a member of the preserved and displayed for the Class of 1974 of Richmond’s public and the Smithsonian was George Wythe High School. the best place for it. Mark Person, whose relatives Evelyn Hawkins, a retired donated Mr. Turner’s Bible librarian from John Marshall to the Smithsonian National High School who has ties to Museum of African American another significant relic posHistory and Culture in 2010, sibly connected to Nat Turner, also graduated in the George also spoke. Wythe Class of 1974. According to Mrs. HawkThe Rev. Torlecia Bates, who They shared their thoughts spoke at last Saturday’s ins, a skull was found on her and stories with an audience of event at Second Baptist family’s farm in Southampton about 100 people at the breakfast Church in South Side, is a County. It is the same farm descendant of Nat Turner. program. where Mr. Turner was captured. When a Southampton Coun- Her father is a member of Her great-great-grandmothers the George Wythe High ty church refused to baptize School Class of 1974. were born as slaves on the farm. Mr. Turner, the Person family Her grandfather, she said, later allowed Mr. Turner to be baptized at Person’s purchased the farm from the Musgrave family. Mill Pond, located on the family’s church prop- It has now been in her family for 101 years. erty, Mr. Person recounted. Since growing up on the farm, Mrs. Hawkins In 1831, Mr. Turner led a rebellion in which recalls hearing stories about Mr. Turner, whose about 55 white people were killed over three life and rebellion were the subject of the film, days. Among the dead were some of Mr. Per- “The Birth of a Nation,” last year by director son’s ancestors, but his great-great grandmother, and actor Nate Parker. 19-year-old Lavinia Francis who was pregnant “The rebellion was bloodier than what could at the time, was saved by Red Nelson and other ever be put on a screen,” Mrs. Hawkins said. slaves who hid her. People are interested in seeing the spots in “If it weren’t for the slaves, we would not Southampton where events unfolded, she said. be here today,” Mr. Person said. An iron stake marks the spot on her family’s

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Mark Person makes a presentation during the George Wythe High School Class of 1974 Black History Month Breakfast Program last Saturday at Second Baptist Church in South Side. Below, Evelyn Hawkins, a retired John Marshall High School librarian, shows the current edition of National Geographic magazine and the skull found on her family’s Southampton County farm where Nat Turner was captured after the enslaved people’s uprising in 1831.

farm where he was captured; a park is being planned, she said. According to historical accounts, Mr. Turner’s body was mutilated after he was hanged. The skull found on the farm currently is being analyzed by experts at the Smithsonian, Mrs. Hawkins told the gathering. DNA testing is being conducted to see if it is possibly that of Mr. Turner.

“If it is Rev. Turner, we want to give him a decent burial in Southampton,” Mrs. Hawkins said. “If it is not him, we still want to bury the skull because every human being deserves that dignity.” Rev. Bates talked about Rahab, a prostitute in the Bible’s Book of Joshua, who was able to make a difference despite rejection because of her past. Similarly, she said, African-Americans have been labeled negatively by society, often simply because of the color of their skin. But they, too, can make a difference. “We have been labeled as rejects for quite too long now,” she said. But the faith of someone rejected is all that is needed to be an agent of change, she told the group. This is the same faith that gave hope to Mr. Turner. It is the same faith that gives hope today to those who ﬁght for black lives today, she said.

Pentecostal Bishop Robert L. Tapper, 96, dies Pentecostal Bishop Robert Lancelot Tapper developed churches in Richmond and six other Virginia communities during a ministry career that spanned 65 years. His church leadership is being remembered following his death Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, in Richmond, his adopted hometown. He was 96. Born in Jamaica, he immigrated to the United States during World War II and started out as a migrant farm laborer in Florida and then a worker at a bomb factory in New Jersey. After relocating to Richmond, he began his foray into the ministry, opening his first Pentecostal church in 1949 with his spouse, the late Letsy Ann Richardson Tapper, their children and three other followers in a Church Hill storefront. In 1960, he moved the growing church, now called All Saints Apostolic Church, to Jackson Ward and then in 1979 to its current location at 2001 Royall Ave. in South Side. As part of its ministry, the church later added a day care and a school for kindergarten and first-grade children. The school is named for his first wife, who died in 1988. Even as he was developing the Richmond church, Bishop Tapper became more active in the Virginia State Council of the Pentecostal Assembles of the World. In 1961, the energetic minister was named a district elder for the state council and ultimately given oversight of 11 churches. As a result of his work, he was elevated to suffragen bishop in 1993 by the state’s diocesan Pentecostal bishop, Clarence E. Moore. Initially as an elder, Bishop Tapper chaired the state council

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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

Sixth Baptist Church A 21st Century Church With Ministry For Everyone

Church Anniversary

Sunday, March 12, 2017 11:00 A.M.

Speaker: Rev. Dr. Grady W. Powell, Pastor Emeritus Gilfield Baptist Church Petersburg, Virginia

Theme: Celebrating 95 Years: “Rooted In Faith; Anchored In Hope” Scripture: Romans 15:13 Colors: Yellow, Green & White Anniversary Dinner following Morning Worship 1813 Everett Street Richmond, Virginia 23224 804-231-5884 Reverend Robert C. Davis, Pastor

at Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries in Chesterﬁeld County. Interment was in Forest Lawn Cemetery. In addition to his daughters, Dr. Rogers-Miller and Rev. Murphy, survivors include his wife, Lucy P. Mendenhall Tapper, whom he married in 1993; two other daughters, Helen T. Dunn and Elizabeth T. Johnson; three sons, Isaac S. Tapper, Robert V. Tapper and Trevor Tapper; a stepdaughter, Yvette Rourk; three stepsons, Verlin Mendenhall, Victor Mendenhall and Vincent Mendenhall; a half-sister, Cerita Miller; 20 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and two stepgrandchildren.

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from 1982 to 1996 and, according to his family, also was involved in opening council-afﬁliated Pentecostal churches in Buckingham, Hague, Petersburg, Roseland, Thornburg and Waverly. In 1984 at age 64, Bishop Tapper also took on the pastorate of Christ Temple Apostolic Church in Danville, while continuing to lead All Saints in Richmond. He continued to lead both churches, but at age 76, installed his daughter, Dr. Lona T. RogersMiller, as co-pastor of All Saints. Bishop Tapper Putting more focus on Danville, he turned over full leadership of the Richmond church to her in 2001, with her sister and brother-in-law, the Revs. Janet and Samuel Murphy, as part of the church’s leadership team. In 2006, Bishop Tapper led Christ Temple Church in building a new 600-seat sanctuary as part of its expansion. Six years later, at age 92, he started slowing down. He accepted the title of senior pastor and turned over the pulpit to Elder Troy Nevells. Bishop Tapper continued to be active in the state council until his death. Final tributes were paid to Bishop Tapper on Saturday, Feb. 25,

Christ Kids And Christ Teens Worship Every Sunday Nursery During Church School and Worship

Rev. Dr. Yvonne , Pastor

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400 South Addison Street Richmond, Va. 23220

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Rev. Dr. William Curtis

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Richmond Free Press

B6 March 2-4, 2017

Legal Notices PUBLIC NOTICE Pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 134 and 135; 49 U.S.C 5303 and 5304, the TriCities Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) hereby provides area citizens an opportunity to review and comment on the Transportation Improvement Program. This transportation plan has been developed by local and State agencies represented on the TriCities Area MPO. A copy of this draft document has been made available for public viewing during regular visiting hours at public libraries in the TriCities Area during a 30 day public review period beginning February 19, 2017 and ending March 22, 2017. One public meeting will be scheduled to receive comments on this draft plan on March 22, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Petersburg Multi-Modal Station located 1 0 0 W. Wa s h i n g t o n Street in Petersburg, VA. Persons in need of special accommodations to participate in these public meetings are requested to forward this information either by contacting the Crater Planning District Commission at 804-8611666 or by email using the address listed below one week prior to the meeting date. Persons with a hearing impairment may contact the Virginia Relay Center at 1-800-828-1120 to forward information to the Crater Planning District Commission and Tri-Cities Area MPO. The purpose of the Transportation Improvement Program is to recommend highway and transit improvements for the Tri-Cities Area. A copy of this draft plan and other information related to the Tri-Cities Area MPO has been made available in electronic format located http://craterpdc. org/transportation/mpo. htm The Crater Planning District Commission and the Tri-Cities Area MPO assure that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, handicap, sex, age or income status, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent nondiscrimination laws, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. Written comments on Transportation Improvement Program should be addressed Crater Planning District Commission, P.O. Box 1808, Petersburg, Virginia 23805 and or sent email dhyder@craterpdc.org and received within the review period ending March 22, 2017. 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, March 13, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber on the Second Floor of City Hall, located at 900 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia, to consider the following ordinances: Ordinance No. 2017-013 As Amended To authorize the special use of the property known as 1000 Westover Road, a portion of the property known as 1001 Spottswood Road, and a 20-foot public alley, for the purpose of office use and limited special events, upon certain terms and conditions. The Land Use Plan of the City of Richmond’s Master Plan designates the subject property for Single-Family (Low Density) land use. Primary uses in this category are single-family detached dwellings at densities up to seven units per acre, with residential support uses such as schools, places of worship, neighborhood parks and recreation facilities, and limited public and semipublic uses. Ordinance No. 2017-031 To declare a public necessity for and to authorize the acquisition of certain fee simple interests and easements in a parcel of real property owned by North Falls Acquisition, LLC at 1300 East Byrd Street for the public purpose of providing public access, stairways, and walkways associated with the Kanawha Canal. Ordinance No. 2017-032 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to execute a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Richmond, Virginia, and Virginia Commonwealth University for the purpose of providing for access to and use of a portion of 1050 Oliver Hill Way by participants in the City’s Conrad Culinary Training Program. (COMMITTEE: Education and Human Services, Thursday, March 9, 2017, 12:00 p.m., Council Chamber)

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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 AJA RIDDICK, Plaintiff v. KENELM RIDDICK, Defendant. Case No.: CL17000425-00 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 11th day of April, 2017 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 HEATHER WATSON, Plaintiff v. JOHN WATSON, Defendant. Case No.: CL17000427-00 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 11th day of April, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. and protect his interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE COUNTY OF HENRICO GALINA RAMSEY, Plaintiff v. BILL W RAMSEY, Defendant. Case No.: CL 16002125-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground that the parties have live separate and apart, without cohabitation and without interruption, for more than one year. An affidavit having been filed that the present residence of the Defendant is unknown to the Plaintiff and the diligence has been used by and on behalf of Plaintiff to ascertain in what county or city the Defendant is located, without effect, it is ORDERED that the defendant appear before the Circuit Court of Henrico on or before March 20, 2017, and do what is necessary to protect his interest herein. A Copy, Teste: Heidi S. Barshinger, Clerk VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE CITY OF RICHMOND TONY R. BOND, Plaintiff v. BRANDI L. BOND, Defendant. Case No.: CL16005582-3 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit, brought by Tony R. Bond, is a complaint for divorce. It appearing from an affidavit that the Defendant, Brandi L. Bond, cannot be found, and that due diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of the Defendant; it is hereby ORDERED that the Defendant appear before this Court on or before March 24, 2017 to protect her interest herein. A Copy, Teste: EDWARD F. JEWETT, Clerk 4551 Cox Road Suite 120 Glen Allen, Virginia 23060 (804) 330-9220 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE CITY OF RICHMOND TIA THOMAS DELANO, Plaintiff v. JOSHUA WADE DELANO, Defendant. Case Number: CL17-288-6 ORDER OF PUBLICATION This Day came the Plaintiff on his motion and Affidavit for an Order of Publication; and was argued by counsel. The object of this suit is to obtain a decree for divorce Continued on next page

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from the bond of matrimony. It appearing from the Affidavit that the Defendant is a nonVirginia resident, whose last known address is located at 2543 Strong Road, Orange, Texas; it is ORDERED that the Defendant appear before this court before the 3rd day of March, 2017 at 9:00 a.m., and do what is necessary to protect her interest herein. A Copy, Teste: EDWARD F. JEWETT, Clerk I ASK FOR THIS: Janipher W. Robinson Robinson and Greene 2415 Westwood Avenue Richmond, Virginia 23230 (804) 321-1728 (voice) (804) 321-0679 (facsimile)

Case No. J-93871-2, J-93871-3 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to: Pursuant to VA Code § 16.1-277.01. Children’s Home Society of Virginia is requesting that the residual parental rights of the named birth father James Tucker, whose whereabouts are unknown and any unknown birth father, whose identity and whereabouts are unknown, and transfer custody of the infant, Clementine Donna Abbott, d/o/b 10/30/16 to the Children’s Home Society of Virginia with the right to place the infant for adoption. It is ordered that the defendant James Tucker or any Unknown Birth Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his interests on or before 04/25/17 9:00 AM.

and LAURA FINE, As to part of a $80,000.00 Interest, who may be the holders of an $80,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-19501, AND JOEL FINE, As to part of a $40,000.00 Interest and LAURA FINE, As to part of a $40,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of part of a $40,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated August 13, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded August 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 0822154, or their heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, RONALD W. ADOLF, As to $15,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of $15,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 0819501, WALTER L. HOOKER, P.C., A Terminated Virginia Corporation, Trustee of a certain Note secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-19501, AND Trustee of a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated August 13, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded August 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 0822154, or his successor/s in title, WALTER L. HOOKER, who may be deceased, or his Successor in Interest, As Former Director and Trustee in Liquidation, MARC DENNING, As to part of an $80,000.00 Interest, and PAULA SEFCHOK, As to part of an $80,000.00 Interest, who may be the holders of $80,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated August 13, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded August 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 0822154, or their heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, DENNIS MCCLEES, As to a $40,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of a $40,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated August 13, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded August 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-22154, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, As Agent for BERNICE SCHWARTZ, GREG WOOLWINE, HOPE WOOLWINE, RICHARD D. KRIDER, SHERRIE BECKER, PATRICK BECKER, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, As Trustee for the JAY SCHWARTZ TRUST U/A 11/6/1992, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, As Trustee for the EDWARD J. BECKER MARITAL TRUST, THEODORE SELLMAN, Who May Be Deceased, and the Heirs, Devisees, Assignees or Successors in Interest of THEODORE SELLMAN, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before MARCH 24, 2017, and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, TOWER BUILDING PROPERTIES, L. L. C., An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, TOWER BUILDING PROPERTIES, L. L. C., A Cancelled Virginia Limited Liability Company, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that JOEL FINE, As to part of $80,000.00 Interest AND LAURA FINE, As to part of $80,000.00 Interest, who may be the holders of $80,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, are not residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia, have not filed a response to this action, or their heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title; that HERBERT CHUTTER, Who May Be Deceased, As to part of $30,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of part of $30,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action, or his heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title; that DOROTHY CHUTTER, As to part of $30,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of part of $30,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, who is not a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action, or her heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title; that STEVEN WEISS, As to $50,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of $50,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action, or his heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title; that MAYNARD GREENBLAT, Who May Be Deceased and the Heirs, Devisees, Assignees or Successors in Title of Maynard Greenblat, As to a possible $15,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder/s of a possible $15,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07020745, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that CYNTHIA GREENBLAT, As to a possible $15,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of a possible $15,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, who is not a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia, has not filed a response to this action; that SHERRIE BECKER, PATRICK BECKER, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, As Trustee for the JAY SCHWARTZ TRUST U/A 11/6/1992, and RICHARD D. KRIDER, who may be creditors with an interest in said property, have not been personally located and have not filed a response to this action; that THEODORE SELLMAN, Who May Be Deceased, and the Heirs, Devisees, Assignees or Successors in Interest of THEODORE SELLMAN, who may be creditor/s with an interest in said property, have not been located and have not filed a response to this matter; that DAVID F. KATZ and SHELLY A. KATZ, who may be creditors with an interest in said property, who not are not residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia, have not been located and

have not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/ or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” I T I S OR D ERE D that TOWER BUILDING PROPERTIES, L. L. C., A Cancelled Virginia Limited Liability Company, JOEL FINE, As to part of $80,000.00 Interest AND LAURA FINE, As to part of $80,000.00 Interest, who may be the holders of $80,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, or their heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, HERBERT CHUTTER, Who May Be Deceased, As to part of $30,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of part of $30,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, or his heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, DOROTHY CHUTTER, As to part of $30,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of part of $30,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07020745, or her heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, STEVEN WEISS, As to $50,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of $50,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, or his heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, MAYNARD GREENBLAT, Who May Be Deceased and the Heirs, Devisees, Assignees or Successors in Title of Maynard Greenblat, As to a possible $15,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder/s of a possible $15,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07-020745, CYNTHIA GREENBLAT, As to a possible $15,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of a possible $15,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated June 18, 2007, with respect to said property, recorded June 19, 2007, in Instrument Number 07020745, SHERRIE BECKER, PATRICK BECKER, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, As Trustee for the JAY SCHWARTZ TRUST U/A 11/6/1992, RICHARD D. KRIDER, THEODORE SELLMAN, Who May Be Deceased, and the Heirs, Devisees, Assignees or Successors in Interest of THEODORE SELLMAN, DAVID F. KATZ, SHELLY A. KATZ, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before MARCH 26, 2017, and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter. An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

VIRginia: IN THE Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court of the City of Richmond Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Clementine Donna Abbott Children’s Home Society of Virginia v. James Tucker and any unknown birth father

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND John Marshall Courts Building CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. CLAYTON INVESTMENT GROUP, L.L.C., a Cancelled Virginia Limited Liability Company, et al., Defendants. Case No.: CL15-3219 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 1016 North 32nd Street, Richmond, Virginia, TaxMap/GPIN# E000-0723/034, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, CLAYTON INVESTMENT GROUP, L. L. C. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, CLAYTON INVESTMENT GROUP, L. L. C., A Cancelled Virginia Limited Liability Company, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that SADIE GARY, As to a $5,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of a $5,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-19501, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that MULLIAN FAMILY L.L.C., As to a $29,500.00 Interest, which may be the holder of a $29,500.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-19501, or said holder’s heirs, devisees, assignees or

successors in title, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that ALLAN M. MULLIAN, who may be deceased, as Registered Agent for The Mullian Family LLC or his Successor/s in Interest, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that JOEL FINE, As to part of a $80,000.00 Interest and LAURA FINE, As to part of a $80,000.00 Interest, who may be the holders of an $80,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-19501, AND JOEL FINE, As to part of a $40,000.00 Interest and LAURA FINE, As to part of a $40,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of part of a $40,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated August 13, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded August 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-22154, who are not residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia, have not filed a response to this action, or their heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title; that RONALD W. ADOLF, As to $15,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of $15,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-19501, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; that WALTER L. HOOKER, P.C., A Terminated Virginia Corporation, Trustee of a certain Note secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-19501, AND Trustee of a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated August 13, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded August 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-22154, or his successor/s in title, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that WALTER L. HOOKER, who may be deceased, or his Successor in Interest, As Former Director and Trustee in Liquidation, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that MARC DENNING, As to part of an $80,000.00 Interest, and PAULA SEFCHOK, As to part of an $80,000.00 Interest, who may be the holders of $80,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated August 13, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded August 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-22154, who are not residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia, have not filed a response to this action, or their heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title; that DENNIS MCCLEES, As to a $40,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of a $40,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated August 13, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded August 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 0822154, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that JAY S. SCHWARTZ, As Agent for BERNICE SCHWARTZ, GREG WOOLWINE, HOPE WOOLWINE, RICHARD D. KRIDER, SHERRIE BECKER, PATRICK BECKER, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, As Trustee for the JAY SCHWARTZ TRUST U/A 11/6/1992, JAY S. SCHWARTZ, As Trustee for the EDWARD J. BECKER MARITAL TRUST, who may be creditors with an interest in said property, have not been personally located and have not filed a response to this action; that THEODORE SELLMAN, Who May Be Deceased, and the Heirs, Devisees, Assignees or Successors in Interest of THEODORE SELLMAN, who may be creditor/s with an interest in said property, have not been located and have not filed a response to this matter; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that CLAYTON INVESTMENT GROUP, L. L. C., A Cancelled Virginia Limited Liability Company, SADIE GARY, As to a $5,000.00 Interest, who may be the holder of a $5,000.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 0819501, MULLIAN FAMILY L.L.C., As to a $29,500.00 Interest, which may be the holder of a $29,500.00 Interest in a certain Note secured by a secured by a Balloon Deed of Trust dated July 17, 2008, with respect to said property, recorded July 17, 2008, in Instrument Number 08-19501, or said holder’s heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, ALLAN M. MULLIAN, who may be deceased, as Registered Agent for The Mullian Family LLC or his Successor/s in Interest, JOEL FINE, As to part of a $80,000.00 Interest

Continued on next column

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER SAMANTHA SALCEDO, Plaintiff v. CHRISTOPHER SALCEDO, Defendant. Case No.: CL17000208-00 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 31st day of March, 2017 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

CUSTODY VIRginia: IN THE Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court of the City of Richmond Commonwealth of Virginia, in re johnette allen Case No. J-82401-08-09 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to: Terminate the residual parental rights (“RPR”) of Dwayne Anthony Holloway ( F ath e r ) & Ta s h i a Nicole Allen (MOTHER) of JOHNETTE ALLEN child, DOB 06/19/2001, “RPR” means all rights and responsibilities remaining with parent after transfer of legal custody or guardianship of the person, including but not limited to rights of: visitation; adoption consent; determination of religious affiliation; and responsibility for support. It is ORDERED that the defendant Dwayne Anthony Holloway (Father) & Tashia Nicole Allen (Mother) to appear at the abovenamed Court and protect his/her interest on or before May 10, 2017 at 2:00 PM, Courtroom #5. Diane Abato, Esq. 900 E. Broad St., 4th Floor Richmond, Virginia 23219 804-646-3493 VIRGINIA: In the CIRCUit Court of the City of Richmond Commonwealth of virginia, in re QUentin JOYNER Case No. CL17-445 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to: Change minor child’s name It is ORDERED that Christopher Joyner appear at the above-named court and protect his/her interests on or before March 27, 2017 An Extract,Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk VIRginia: IN THE Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court of the City of Richmond Commonwealth of Virginia, in re YOLANDA HARRIS Case No. J-91792-05-06 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to: Terminate the residual parental rights (“RPR”) of Charlie Moses Harris (Father) & Betty Jean Spencer of YOLANDA H A RRI S c h i l d , D O B 10/19/2014, “RPR” means all rights and responsibilities remaining with parent after transfer of legal custody or guardianship of the person, including but not limited to rights of: visitation; adoption consent; determination of religious affiliation; and responsibility for support. It is ORDERED that the defendant Charlie Moses Harris (Father) & Betty Jean Spencer (Mother) to appear at the above-named Court and protect his/her interest on or before April 24, 2017 at 9:40 AM Courtroom #4 Kate O’Leary, Esq. 900 E. Broad St., 4th Floor Richmond, Virginia 23219 804-646-3493

virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt Of the COunty of Chesterfield Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Carcamo De Leon, Carlos Rosario Carcamo v. Jose Miguel Quintanilla Salgado Case No. JJ091120-01-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to: (1) Determine custody of Carlos Carcamo De Leon (DOB: 10/30/99) whose mother is Rosario Carcamo, and whose father is Jose Miguel Quintanilla Salgado, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 16.1-241A3. Father’s whereabouts are unknown in El Salvador (2) To make factual findings that would permit Carlos Carcamo De Leon to apply for special immigrant juvenile status through the US Citizenship & Immigration Service pursuant to section 101(A)(27)(J) of the Immigration & Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. section 1101(A) (27)(J). It is ordered that the defendant appear at the abovenamed court and protect his or her interests on or before 04/04/2017 10:00 AM. virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt Of the COunty of Chesterfield Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Portillo Molina, Josue A. Yanira E. Molina Gonzalez v. Jose S. P. Portillo Carranza Case No. JJ090713-01-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to: (1) Determine custody of Josue Alexis Portillo Molina (DOB: 09/25/08) whose mother is Yanira E. Molina Gonzalez, and whose father is Jose S. P. Portillo Carranza, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 16.1-241A3. Father’s whereabouts are unknown in El Salvador (2) To make factual findings that would permit Josue Alexis Portillo Molina to apply for special immigrant juvenile status through the US Citizenship & Immigration Service pursuant to section 101(A)(27)(J) of the Immigration & Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. section 1101(A)(27) (J). It is ordered that the defendant appear at the above-named court and protect his or her interests on or before 04/04/2017 10:00 AM.

Property

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND John Marshall Courts Building CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. TOWER BUILDING PROPERTIES, L.L.C., A Cancelled Virginia Limited Liability Company, et al., Case No.: CL15-3124 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 1832 Keswick Avenue, Richmond, Virginia, TaxMap/GPIN# S007-1032/002, to sale in order to collect delinquent real Continued on next column

Continued on next column

BIDS COUNTY OF HENRICO, VIRGINIA CONSTRUCTION BID ITB# 17-1325-2JK Henrico County Courts Building Refresh Project Due 2:30 pm, March 22, 2017 Additional information available at: h t t p : / / w w w. h e n r i c o . u s / departments/purchasing/ bids-and-proposals/

CONSOLIDATED PLAN PUBLIC NOTICE On Thursday, March 30, 2017, the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will hold a public hearing on items relating to the Commonwealth of Virginia’s administration of the Consolidated Action Plan 2017-2018 Action Plan. The public hearing will be held at 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM in the 12th Floor South Conference Room of the Main Street Centre, 600 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219. DHCD will be taking comments on the proposed 2017-2018 Action Plan including goals and objectives for housing and community development; the projected use of funding; the method for distributing $7,021,802 in HOME Investment Partnership funds; $2,754,274 in Emergency Solution Grant (ESG) funds; $745,593 in Housing for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) funds, $3,139,830 in National Housing Trust Funds, and $16,881,481 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Please note that funding amounts are estimates based on 2016-2017 funding. Copies of the plan document may be requested by calling (804) 371-7100, (804) 371-7122, or (804) 371-7084 TDD. Persons requiring special accommodations should call (804) 371-7110. The Plan will appear on the agency’s web site at http://www.dhcd.virginia.gov. The Department will receive written comments and testimony on the proposed 2017-2018 Action Plan through the close of business on April 14, 2017 at the following address: Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Attention: Lyndsi Austin Main Street Centre 600 East Main Street, Suite 300 Richmond, Virginia 23219

Richmond Free Press

March 2-4, 2017 B7

Legal Notices/Employment Opportunities Peninsula Cleaning hiring in Richmond! Janitorial (PT) General Cleaners, Floor Techs, Team Leaders & Supervisors Must be skilled & reliable to clean and maintain commercial & medical facilities. Valid DL & bkgd check are req’d. Apply online @ www.peninsulacleaning.com or

Call (757) 833-1603

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF RICHMOND FY 2016-2020 CONSOLIDATED PLAN AMENDMENT & FY 2016-2017 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN AMENDMENT In accordance with HUD citizen participation requirements, a 30-day public comment period to amend the 20162020 Consolidated Plan and 2016-2017 Annual Action Plan will begin on March 2, 2017, and will expire on April 3, 2017. By this notice the City of Richmond announces the availability of the proposed amended 2016-2017 Consolidated Plan and 2016-2017 Annual Action Plan for public review and comment. Notice is given that on Monday, April 10, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers, the Richmond City Council will hold a public hearing on the Mayor’s proposed amended 2016-2020 Consolidated Plan and 2016-2017 Annual Action Plan budget for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA). The Plan will serve as a comprehensive planning document discussing Richmond’s community development and housing needs with particular emphasis on the provision of decent housing, a suitable living environment, assisting and preventing homelessness, assisting special needs community, and the expansion of economic opportunities, particularly for low and moderate income persons. The funds below are federal entitlement dollars allocated to the City through the U. S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) including prior year surplus and program income to implement the housing and community development priorities and activities identified in the five year Consolidated Plan, which is consistent with City’s Focus Area Priorities. Community Development Block Grant funds (CDBG): CDBG Prior Year Surplus- $281,230 CDBG Program Income - $275,300 Total CDBG allocation: Increase budget by $556,530 from $4,282,806 to $4,839,336. Citywide Critical Home Repair (PH): Increase by $27,530 from $350,000 to $377,530. Per the Voluntary HUD Agreement the City is required to dedicate 10% of its CDBG Program Income for repairs to eligible manufactured housing, (trailers). Jefferson Davis Mixed Use Development - Add new activity at $70,000 for the acquisition and development of a mixed use development. Matthews at Chestnut Hill - Increase by $350,000 from $250,000 to $600,000 for the construction and phase one development of the 32 single family housing project benefitting low and moderate income households. Neighborhood Stabilization HNP (SCDHC) - Add new activity at $159,000 for the rehabilitation and completion of a home in Northside under the NSP 1 program to benefit low and moderate income home buyers. New Clay House II (VSH) - Increase by $100,000 from $100,000 to $200,000 towards the acquisition of property located at 1125 W. Clay Street. The activity will provide permanent affordable housing to income eligible individuals. R Street Lots (SCDHC) - Add new activity at $100,000 for the acquisition and construction of four new homes for the infill of R Street and 26th Street. Section 108 2012 Loan Repayment (Finance) – Reduce by $250,000 from $500,000 to $250,000 for the repayment of the City’s Section 108 loan. Venable Street (BHC) – Cancel the Venable Street project by recapturing $100,000 on BHC’s multifamily housing project. 3200 W. Broad Street (BHC) – Add new activity at $100,000 for predevelopment cost for a mixed use/mixed income multifamily development. Housing Opportunities for Persons with Aids Program (HOPWA): HOPWA Prior Year Surplus- $135,000 HOPWA Program Income - $0 Total HOPWA allocation: Increase budget by $135,000 from $813,475 to $948,475. HOPWA Greater Richmond (CCC) - Increase by $135,000 from $479,475 to $614,475 to provide supportive services and housing assistance to households with HIV in the Richmond MSA. Change Broad National Objective: No change in allocation as a result of this amendment. • CDBG and HOME activities related Swansboro 22nd and Perry project. The project has been redesigned from multifamily housing to the development of 22 single family housing units for home ownership. The national objective to be met will be low and moderate income housing beneficiaries. • The Low Moderate Area activity related to the construction of an alley in the 1200 block of Catherine Street will be changed from Public Facility LMA activity to Acquisition of Low Moderate Housing activity. Funds will be used to purchase lot at the corner of Harrison and Catherine Street. • 2618-2620 Nine Mile Road change the national objective to low moderate area beneficiaries. Copies of the proposed amended 2016-2020 Consolidated Plan and amended 2016-2017 Annual Action Plan are available for public review in the City Department of Economic & Community Development, 1500 E Main ST, Suite 400, or at the Main Richmond Public Library at 101 E. Franklin Street, and at www.yesrichmondva.com. The City of Richmond does not discriminate on the basis of disability status in the admission of, or access to, or treatment in its federally assisted programs or activities. Virginia Relay Center - TDD Users - 1-800-828-1120. Citizens and interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and give their views regarding the use of CDBG, HOME funds for the five Year Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. The City will arrange for reasonable accommodations for non-English speaking persons or those persons with visual, hearing, or mobility impairments when notified within five (5) business days of a meeting. Those unable to attend the meetings may send their comments and views in writing to: Mr. Daniel Mouer, Project Development Manager of Economic and Community Development, 1500 E. Main Street, Suite 400, Richmond, VA 23219 or by e-mail to Daniel.Mouer@ richmondgov.com. Comments may also be sent by facsimile (804) 646-6358.

for more info. EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability

The City of Richmond is seeking to fill the following positions: Accountant III – General Ledger & Financial Reporting 25M00000013 Department of Finance Apply by 03/12/17 Accounting Manager – A/P 25M00000106 Department of Finance Apply by 03/12/17 Administrative Project Analyst – Delinquent Tax 25M00000087 Department of Finance Apply by 03/12/17

Computer Science Instructor Continued from previous column

(Position #FO407)

(J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, Richmond, VA) Master’s degree in Computer Science; or Master’s degree in any field but must include eighteen (18) graduate semester hours in Computer Science. The selected candidate must be able to pass the College’s pre-employment security screening. TYPE OF APPOINTMENT: Full-time, nine-month teaching faculty-ranked appointment. Salary range: $31,876-$102,279. Approximate maximum hiring salary: $62,000. Additional information is available at the College’s website: www.reynolds.edu. APPLICATION PROCESS: Review of applications will begin APRIL 21, 2017 and will be accepted until the position is filled.

Administrative Project Analyst – Payroll Analyst 25M00000067 Department of Finance Apply by 03/12/17 Customer Service Manager 35M00000880 Department of Public Utilities Apply by 03/12/17 Customer Service Representative II (Part-Time) 25M00000066 Department of Finance Apply by 03/12/17

AA/EOE/ADA/Veterans/ AmeriCorps/Peace Corps/ Other National Service Alumni are encouraged to apply.

Executive Advisor 41M00000082 Richmond Police Department Apply by 03/12/17

Pastor Vacancy

The Parrish Hill Baptist Church in Charles City, Virginia is prayerfully seeking a Pastor, called by God who will be the spiritual leader of the congregation. The qualified candidate will be responsible to God and the church to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to teach the Bible, to provide Christian leadership in all areas of the church and to engage in pastoral care for the congregation. The candidate should have qualities in the following areas: leadership, salvation and brotherly love, spirituality: teaching and preaching, finance and facilities and community outreach. Interested and qualified candidates should submit a resume to phbc143@gmail.com or Parrish Hill Baptist Church Pulpit Committee Chair P.O. Box 185 Charles City, Virginia 23030

Planner II 05M00000039 Department of Planning Development and Review Apply by 03/12/17 Police School Guard 41M00000845 Richmond Police Department Apply by 03/12/17 Tax Representative – Business Tax (Part-Time) 25M00000035 Department of Finance Apply by 03/12/17 ****************** For an exciting career with the City of Richmond, visit our website for additional information and apply today! www.richmondgov.com EOE M/F/D/V

PASTOR Fourth Baptist Church of Richmond, Virginia is currently seeking a Full Time Pastor. Fourth Baptist is 157 years old and located in historic Church Hill. We are seeking a pastor who has a strong calling to minister. Minimum requirements are a Master of Divinity Degree from an accredited educational institution and a minimum of five (5) years of pastoral experience. Qualified candidates should mail their resume to the following address. Postmarked no later than April 30, 2017. Pastoral Search Committee, P. O. Box 26686 Richmond, Virginia 23261 The Richmond Free Press is seeking a reliable and creative person for a part-time graphics position. Enthusiastic individual must be proficient in Macintosh Creative Suite Design software (Indesign and Photoshop) to produce accurate, high quality camera-ready advertisements and news page layouts for print production. Duties will include weekly website maintenance. 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: Human Resources, Richmond Free Press, P.O. Box 27709, Richmond, Virginia 23261. No phone calls please.

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We urge our readers to think in economic terms and to use the advertising columns of the Free Press as a guide when making purchases and/or voting. Corporations and governmental entities that place advertising in the columns of the Free Press are sending the message that they appreciate our patronage and respect us as customers. Let nobody fool you. Our family of more than 130,000 Free Press readers holds tremendous economic clout. Economic clout so great that it determines whether most companies in the Richmond area make a profit. As customers and taxpayers, we should vote with our dollars — but only for those businesses and government jurisdictions that respect rules of fair play from the board room to the checkout and service counters. They also should respect and appreciate us and our hard-earned dollars — just as they do the readers of other media. Vote daily with your dollars to make a difference. Economic power is essential to freedom.

Richmond Free Press The People's Newspaper

Freelance Writers: Richmond Free Press has immediate opportunities for freelance writers. Newspaper experience is a requirement. To be considered, please send 5 samples of your writing, along with a cover letter to news@richmond freepress.com or mail to: Richmond Free Press, P. O. Box 27709, Richmond, VA 23261 No phone calls.

Richmond Free Press

B8 March 2-4, 2017

Sports Plus

Ayasha Sledge

Virginia Union University Coach Jay Butler, CIAA Men’s Coach of the Year, watches forlornly as his team loses to Bowie State University.

The Bowie State Bulldogs celebrate their 62-54 championship victory over Fayetteville State University last Saturday.

Ayasha Sledge

Virginia Union University Coach AnnMarie Gilbert, CIAA Women’s Coach of the Year, directs from the sidelines.

CIAA highlights Thousands of HBCU alumni, basketball fans and their families converged on Charlotte, N.C., last week for the 2017 CIAA Basketball Tournament. The six-day event becomes a celebration of HBCUs, friendship and fun, with a plethora of activities surrounding the annual sporting event.

Bowie State University Athletic Department

Ayasha Sledge

Mr. CIAA, Abraham “Ham” Mitchell of Suffolk, sports one of his custom outfits around the arena in Charlotte. The colors are those of the Bowie State Bulldogs.

The Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls women’s team celebrates its tournament title and 68-59 victory over the Virginia State University women’s team.

Johnson C. Smith University Athletic Department

Virginia State University President Makola M. Abdullah stops for a photo with CIAA Commissioner Jacqueline “Jacqie” McWilliams.

R&B group En Vogue performs during the championship game last Saturday.

Randy Singleton

Jazz artist Najee performs the national anthem before last Saturday’s championship game.

Ayasha Sledge

ESPN sportscaster Charlie Neal, right, a member of the CIAA Hall of Fame, interviews 2017 CIAA Hall of Fame inductee Derrick Johnson, a former Virginia Union University basketball standout.

Randy Singleton

Photos by Ayasha Sledge

Left, the Virginia State University women’s basketball team celebrates last Friday after making it to the CIAA finals. Above the Virginia Union University Rah-Rahs bust a move during a tournament performance.