May 12 14, 2016 issue by Richmond Free Press

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

After seven years and five months leading Virginia Union University and having a campus building named in his honor, Dr. Claude G. Perkins is ready to retire. VUU announced Dr. Perkins, 74, would take a yearlong paid sabbatical beginning July 1. His contract expires in July 2017.

The announcement of the planned departure of the university’s 12th president came Monday, just two days after Dr. Perkins presided over the 2016 commencement ceremonies and a year after he guided the school through the celebration of its 150th anniversary. Dr. Perkins will remain president during the sabbatical, Please turn to A5

VOL. 25 NO. 20

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VUU president to retire

MAY 12-14, 2016

Sisters act to save home Nuns rally support to block sale of historic St. Emma’s, St. Francis property By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Sister Maureen Carroll, left, is seeking to rally public support to prevent the sale of a historic Powhatan property with help from volunteers like Joyce Johnson. The women talked about their plans in front of Belmead, the mansion that was once home to St. Emma Military Academy for Boys and has been headquarters for the nonprofit FrancisEmma Inc. that has sought to preserve and protect the property and its history.

City Council to strip Mayor Jones’ detail By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Will Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones have to handle his own commute to and from City Hall rather than being chauffeured by a police officer when the new budget year begins July 1? Richmond City Council is following through on its threat to strip the mayor of most of his security detail in the budget that is expected to be approved Friday, May 13. The council also is expected to limit when the security detail can be used. An amendment that will accompany the general fund budget states that the mayor will be restricted to having “one sworn police officer … assigned to provide security” and then only “during the times when the mayor is conducting official business within the Richmond region,” which includes the city and the counties of Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico.

Defying their superiors, four nuns are fighting to save the historic 2,265-acre property in Powhatan County that was once home to two Catholic boarding schools for African-American youths. The nuns, who manage the property, are mounting a campaign to reverse the decision by the leaders of their order, Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, to sell the land — although the prospects for upending the decision appear extremely slim for the nuns who are losing their authority to impact events. The Free Press broke the story last week that the SBS, the religious order of nuns who ran the historic, but long-closed St. Francis de Sales School for Girls and St. Emma Military Academy for Boys, was putting the property on the market after 117 years of ownership. The move shocked and surprised the order’s four nuns who live and work on the property, as well as the board of FrancisEmma Inc., the 12-year-old nonprofit that has worked to restore the property. “We were blindsided,” said Sister Maureen Carroll, whom the SBS removed Tuesday as executive director of the nonprofit. In response to the SBS’s sale decision, Sister Carroll said she and the three sisters have begun a petition campaign on Change. org and are using Facebook and sending email blasts to generate “an outpouring of support” to overturn the sale. “This is very significant African-American history, and we need a big community response to help preserve it,” said Sister Carroll, who announced Wednesday that the nuns also would hold a rally 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at the property at 5004 Cartersville Road that overlooks the James River. She believes popular support represents the only chance to get SBS leaders to reconsider disposing of the property that the order has long considered “sacred land.” Opened in the 1890s, the two schools together educated and trained in practical skills at least 12,000 African-American students before both closed by 1972, Sister Carroll said. “FrancisEmma wants to become independent and to buy the property, and we just need (the SBS leadership) to give us three to five years to come up with the money,” Sister Carroll said. “I know we could raise it.” Please turn to A4

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The city rundown:

$1.2B needed to maintain infrastructure By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

The worn exterior of the City of Richmond’s former Public Safety Building is a prime example of the city’s failure to invest in maintenance. The city now faces a huge bill to cover costs for improving public buildings, streets and other infrastructure, as well as for modernizing schools.

The City of Richmond needs to borrow $1.2 billion during the next 10 years to maintain its streets, provide sidewalks, ensure dozens of bridges remain usable and keep its 84 buildings in good shape, according a mayoral task force examining the future borrowing needs of the city government. That doesn’t count $650 million needed in the next 10 years to provide quality school buildings — either new or renovated, according to Richmond Public Schools, which is participating in the task force. The only problem: The city doesn’t have the capacity to borrow that kind of money. According to a report David Rose, the city’s financial adviser, provided to Richmond City Council, Richmond would be able to borrow a total of $329 million in the 10-year period between 2018 and 2027 under current policies. Please turn to A4

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

So proud! Christine Turner of Chesapeake gets a huge hug of congratulations from her niece, Nijah Roberson, as she and other Virginia Union University candidates for graduation march toward Hovey Field last Saturday for the commencement ceremony. Please turn to B3 for additional photo coverage.

Area groups mobilize to register former inmates to vote By Malik Russell

Groups throughout the Richmond region are taking steps to get formerly incarcerated individuals registered to vote and, ultimately, to the polls. Their efforts are in response to Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s recent executive order restoring the civil and voting rights to more than 200,000 felons who have finished serving their time and completed parole and probation. “We know that it is important to not only support the governor in returning civil rights to people who have served their time, but also to make sure that

we both increase the voter rolls and get folks to the polls,” said Lillie BranchKennedy, founder of Resources, Information and Help for the Ms. BranchDisadvantaged Kennedy (RIHD), a Richmond-based group advocating for the rights of incarcerated individuals and their families. Last weekend, RIHD helped create the Mid-Atlantic Cornerstone Civic

Engagement Coalition, a collection of organizations from Richmond, Washington and Baltimore pooling resources to conduct grassroots outreach aimed particularly at people who previously were imprisoned. RIHD is teaming with Richard Walker, a former felon and founder of Bridging the Gap in Virginia, another Richmond-based advocacy group committed to restoration of rights, to kick off its 5th Annual Mobile Justice Tour in Virginia, a regional tour with stops in 10 to 15 places to push for sentencing reforms and to register former inmates to vote.

“What we realized is that the people in D.C. and Baltimore are facing the same problems we are and that there is little to no funding for Mr. Hicks the work we do in grassroots communities,” said Mr. Walker. “We realized that we’ve got to pool our resources and unite in sharing information and strategies.” Since Gov. McAuliffe announced the executive order April 22, Repub-

lican leaders in the General Assembly have threatened a lawsuit challenging the order, and have questioned why violent offenders now should be eligible to serve on juries because their rights are restored. On Wednesday, Gov. McAuliffe’s office released data from an analysis of the more than 200,000 individuals whose rights were restored. The results show that more than 79 percent of the former inmates had been convicted of nonviolent offenses. The data also shows that 51.5 Please turn to A4

A2 May 12-14, 2016

Richmond Free Press

Local News

2 hospitals team up to explore new rehab facility VCU Health System and Sheltering Arms Hospital have taken the first step to develop a new hospital for people suffering from stroke, brain or spinal cord injuries or other severe physical injuries. The hospitals announced a joint venture Monday to build a new inpatient care center for those needing surgery and other acute treatment for disabling physical conditions. As yet, no site has been identified, although VCU has long preferred to develop this type of facility on its medical campus Downtown. The move comes as VCU makes plans to develop a new inpatient hospital focusing on children and overhauling the West Hospital portion of its Downtown campus. The project involving Sheltering Arms is not a merger, a news release emphasized, and all outpatient rehabilitation and other services will continue to operate independently. If and when a new Ms. Zweifel Dr. Rappley hospital is built — which may take years — both hospitals expect to continue to independently offer inpatient services, according to the announcement. Mary Zweifel, interim president and CEO of Sheltering Arms, said the joint venture continues the longstanding practice of collaboration between the two hospitals. “We have worked together on multidisciplinary treatment programs for patients, on research and on training clinicians and leaders in physical rehabilitation,” she said, adding that the new effort would “enhance our progress in shaping physical rehabilitative care for the benefit of our patients.” Dr. Marsha Rappley, CEO of the VCU Health System and vice president of VCU Health Sciences, said a successful hospital project would “bring together the programs of Sheltering Arms and those of the VCU Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.” John Duval, vice president for clinical services and CEO of VCU Hospitals added that “this partnership will make physical rehabilitative care in Virginia among the nation’s best.” Sheltering Arms currently operates two independent hospitals on the campuses of Bon Secours facilities — Memorial Regional Medical Center in Hanover County and St. Francis Medical Center in Midlothian. Sheltering Arms also has outpatient centers in the Richmond area, as well as community-based programs that include recreational therapy and fitness. The VCU Health System provides rehabilitation to patients at the VCU Medical Center in Downtown, at VCU Health at Stony Point in South Side and at the VCU Sports Medicine Clinic adjacent to the Siegel Center. The joint venture follows achievement awards by the VCU Medical Center for treatment of stroke victims. The center received recognition as a top hospital for stroke treatment from the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association, based on a record of meeting or exceeding quality measures designed to save the lives of stroke victims and hasten their recovery at VCU’s Comprehensive Stroke Center, the first of its kind in Virginia. — JEREMY M. LAZARUS

Town hall May 12 on voting rights restoration Delegate Delores L. McQuinn is hosting a town hall meeting to help felons, their families and advocacy organizations understand Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s recent executive order restoring the voting rights of 206,000 formerly incarcerated people. The order, issued April 22, applies to felons who have finished serving their time and completed any supervised probation or parole. The town hall will be 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at Thirty-first Street Baptist Church, 823 N. 31st St. The event is sponsored by a number of state lawmakers, Richmond City Council and School Board members and numerous organizations. Del. McQuinn “We’re hoping that this event will help individuals better understand the process for restoration of voting rights,” said Keith Westbrook, legislative assistant for Delegate McQuinn. Information: Email deldmcquinn@house.virginia.gov or contact Keith Westbrook at (804) 698-1270 or (804) 301-0671. — MALIK RUSSELL

Joey Matthews/Richmond Free Press

Cityscape Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

Members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Metro Richmond — a coalition of the nine historically African-American fraternities and sororities — pick up litter in Jackson Ward on a recent weekend. Similar community spring-cleaning efforts have been taking place across the area. Last weekend, for example, volunteers cleaned up alleys in Barton Heights, while others spent time clearing growth from four African-American burial grounds located on the border between Richmond and Henrico County.

Coleman not seeking re-election to School Board The Rev. Donald L. Coleman will not be seeking re-election to the Richmond School Board. The two-term, 7th District representative announced Monday he would be stepping down in December — becoming one of at least three members who will not return. A former chairman and current vice chairman, Rev. Coleman called it “an honor beyond words” to have represented the East End, where he is a longtime resident. First elected in 2008, Rev. Coleman said the results speak for themselves. “I humbly submit that RPS is in a better place than when I arrived seven-plus years ago. … What lies ahead is the amazing

opportunity to build on the progress.” School Board members Kim Gray, 2nd District, and Kristen Larson, 4th District, are planning runs for open City Council seats in their respective districts. All three have been strong supporters of Superintendent Dana T. Bedden, whom they voted to hire. One person who said he is considering a bid for the 7th District seat School Board is James E. “J.J.” Minor, chairman of the Richmond Democratic Committee. Mr. Minor, who is the son of Delegate Delores L. McQuinn, has led recent efforts to fight a School Board proposal to close Armstrong High School in the East End as a money-saving measure. — JEREMY M. LAZARUS

WE PURSUE

DEEPER

INSIGHT

FROM ORIGINAL SOURCES

GRTC to start express service to Kings Dominion GRTC will resume daily express bus service from Richmond to Kings Dominion amusement park in Hanover County, beginning Memorial Day weekend. Starting Saturday, May 28, through Labor Day, Sept. 5, GRTC will run the 102x Kings Dominion Express route. Riders can catch the bus at Southside Plaza and a special Kings Dominion bus stop at 9th and Broad streets in Downtown. The 102x bus also will pick up passengers at all westbound stops along Broad Street between 12th Street and Belvidere Street. The earliest bus leaves Richmond at 7:30 a.m. and the latest at 10:45 p.m. for the 45-minute trip to Kings Dominion, while the earliest bus leaves Kings Dominion for Richmond at 8:45 a.m. and the latest at 11:31 p.m. The bus schedule changes depending on how late the amusement park stays open each night. After Labor Day, GRTC will continue the express service only on Saturdays and Sundays until Oct. 30. Officials said the express service not only will serve park patrons, but its cadre of summer employees. Tickets are $5 per trip or $3 per trip for Kings Dominion employees with an ID. Last year, more than 42,000 riders used the express service, GRTC officials said. For detailed route and schedule information, go to www.ridegrtc. com or call (804) 358-GRTC (4782). — MALIK RUSSELL

We have the responsibility to live more purposeful, informed lives. To educate ourselves about the world and make enlightened decisions. That starts with gaining a greater understanding of societies around the globe. It’s why Assistant Professor Nomi Dave takes a holistic approach to studying the music of the West African country of Guinea—to paint a richer picture of its people and capture the essence of their society. By seeking new perspectives in unconventional ways, we can achieve a deeper understanding of the world’s complex cultures. Learn more at virginia.edu/pursuit

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News

Sisters act to save historic home Continued from A1

Still, she acknowledged that the public campaign is a long shot. Last week, she said, the order’s top leadership, including the president, Sister Donna Breslin, attended a meeting of the FrancisEmma Inc. board to inform members of the sale and to notify them that they no longer would play a role in decisions about the property. “They said the board was dissolved,” Sister Carroll said, meaning current members essentially are to be replaced by people who would vote to sell. The four top leaders actually control FrancisEmma Inc. and appoint the board, she said, leaving displaced members few means to protest, she said. Although removed as executive director, Sister Carroll has not received a reassignment order. Nor have the three other SBS nuns. Sister Carroll said that could be the next step. “Then each of us would have a decision to make about whether to accept reassignment,” she said. The other nuns are Sisters Elena Henderson, Beulah Martin and Jean Ryan. Sister Breslin announced the sale May 3, along with the decision to dispose of the order’s Motherhouse near Philadelphia. The order has shrunk from 600 members to 104 in recent years, only 13 of whom are under age 65. Sister Breslin said the sale would redirect SBS resources to the order’s other projects. Sister Carroll fears the story of the schools and the history of the site would be lost if the property is sold to a developer more interested in creating homes than preserving history. “Today, we tell the story of the era of slavery before the schools, the era of empowerment when the schools were in operation and the current era of ecology and social justice,” she said.

The SBS has been involved with the property since 1899, when the order’s founder, St. Katharine Drexel, opened St. Francis at the former Mt. Pleasant plantation, also called “Rock Castle.” St. Emma, also called “Belmead” was opened in 1895 by St. Katharine’s sister, Louise, and her husband, Col. Edward Morrell, and the property was later donated to the order. Sister Carroll said the sales decision ignores the strong financial position of FrancisEmma Inc., which has covered all the costs of its operations since it was organized in 2004. FrancisEmma is “not financially pitiful. We don’t take a penny from the Motherhouse,” she said, “but in fact, we generate money for the Motherhouse.” FrancisEmma, she said, has become selfsupporting by earning money boarding horses at its stables, running a preschool, operating an environmental center, leasing part of the land to a farming operation and hosting weddings and other events. The nonprofit also raises money from the sale of wood from a section set aside for a loblolly pine tree farm. “We have invested in restoration of St. Emma’s, and just recently replaced the roof,” Sister Carroll said. “We are well on our way to raising the $7 million needed to restore St. Francis and take on the other needed projects,” she said, citing new grants recently provided by two foundations. She said that FrancisEmma runs tours and has trained 11 youths and eight senior citizens as docents using a grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “We have 6,000 visitors a year,” she said. “The tragedy will be if the property is sold and the story of this land is allowed to disappear.”

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Above, a view of the chapel inside Belmead where the nuns of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament pray. Below, this cemetery is the burial ground for slaves who worked on the property decades before it was used for the education of African-American youths.

Council to strip mayor’s detail

$1.2B needed to maintain city infrastructure

Continued from A1

In fact, the only sector of city government that will have the borrowing capacity to meet virtually all of its needs is the Department of Public Utilities, which has a dedicated stream of revenue from customer payments for water, sewer service and natural gas to support its debt. The tight squeeze on borrowing is creating one of the biggest challenges that will face the next mayor and City Council following the November elections — how to modernize worn out school buildings while keeping the city’s infrastructure from wearing out. For Mr. Rose, it’s a familiar problem. “This is typical for local governments,” said the senior vice president for Davenport & Co., who is a recognized expert in public finance. Richmond is like every big city, he said, with “more needs than borrowing capacity. Even at the best of times, we don’t have enough capacity to do all the things that need to be done.” But this is not the best of times. Despite a surge in population and private construction, revenue coming into the city is increasing at less than 2 percent a year. To balance the budget for the 2017 fiscal year that begins July 1, City Council had to go along with the mayor’s plan to slash departmental budgets by 12 percent and to increase the cost of metered parking and trash collection. And even though the council came up with an additional $5.5 million for schools, most of that money came from one-time increases in revenue — not an assured stream of new income. When it comes to maintaining infrastructure, the city has hurt itself by refusing to make that a priority. Given a choice of investing $175 million in four new schools or spending the money to upgrade and renovate at least 15 buildings, the mayor and council chose to build a new high school, middle school and two elementary schools and leave the problem of fixing the other buildings to another time. John Buturla, Richmond’s deputy chief administrative officer for operations, compiled the needs on the city side and the shortfall is obvious. His numbers suggest the city would need to borrow $116 million a year for each of the next 10 years just to meet infrastructure needs. However, the capital budget the council is poised to pass Friday, May 13, provides, at most, $68 million for city infrastructure, with that amount expected to shrink each year through fiscal year 2021. In fiscal year 2021, the city would be able to borrow just $11.1 million for infrastructure needs. Mr. Buturla projects a need to borrow $10 million a year — or $50 million over five years — to maintain the city’s 84 buildings. However, the capital budget shows that a total of just

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

The Richmond Coliseum, now 45 years old, has long passed its prime as a shining example of city progress. Now it is a symbol of the infrastructure challenges the city faces.

$4.3 million is expected to be available to maintain city buildings ranging from City Hall to the courthouses and fire stations — a $46 million shortfall. Schools are also a great example of the shortfall. This year, the School Board requested the city provide $41 million in fiscal year 2017 to meet maintenance requirements for its current buildings and then provide a total of $53.5 million during the next four years. That’s a total of $94.5 million for the 2017-2021 period. However, the council is budgeting only $14.6 million for school maintenance during that five-year period, $80 million short. In fiscal year 2017, the council has earmarked just $9 million for school maintenance, $4 million more than the mayor proposed, but still $32 million short of the School Board’s request. Next week, when the task force meets again, Mr. Rose is expected to offer some ideas for boosting the city’s ability to borrow and address more of its needs. One idea, as he told the council in his report, might be for the city to change its policy to boost its borrowing capacity. Mr. Rose’s report suggests the policy change could boost the borrowing capacity to $580 million over the 10 years — but it is unclear whether the city would have the revenue to repay the increased debt. This year, the city expects to spend about $70 million to repay debt. If the council increased borrowing levels to address maintenance, more money would have to go to debt service, leaving even less for its own and the school system’s operations. Mr. Rose said that for the council to approve extra borrowing, the city would need to generate additional revenue. He said for every $100 million in new borrowing at current interest rates, the city would need to pay $7.5 million a year. “And that is not just for one year,” he said. “That would be each year for the next 20 years.” “The city has to be realistic if it decides to use more revenue for debt service,” he said. He said there are plenty of examples of governments that ran into financial trouble by over borrowing, with Puerto Rico and Detroit being prominent examples. Still, unless taxes are increased, or the city finds some other way to dramatically boost revenue, the money to overhaul schools and maintain city infrastructure is unlikely to be available.

Driving to and from work does not appear to fit the restriction. The amendment authorizes Richmond Police Chief Alfred Durham to beef up that detail in “a case … which presents a specific and credible threat of bodily injury (to the mayor) and only for the duration of such threat.” The amendment is a victory for Councilwoman Reva M. Trammell, 8th District, who heads the council’s Public Safety Committee, although it doesn’t abolish the mayor’s security detail as she sought. “If he’s so afraid of the city, as I’ve said a thousand times, then why is he still the mayor?” Ms. Trammell asked her council colleagues. “Why doesn’t he step down?” No mayor of the city needs security, she continued. “They do not need police officers driving them around, taking them here, there, everywhere,” she said. Why Ms. Trammell won unanimous support this time remains unclear. She repeatedly had proposed eliminating or reducing the detail in past city budget cycles, only to have the idea shot down. One reason may be that it is an election year and at least two members of the council, Jonathan T. Baliles, 1st District, and Michelle Mosby, 9th District, have announced they are running for mayor. Slashing the size of the detail will not produce any savings, as several council members noted. The money is included in the police department’s budget, and the five or so other officers on the detail simply would be reassigned to other duties — filling some of the holes on the force that the chief is now publicly expressing concern about. The police department has been spending $400,000 to $500,000 year on the mayor’s security detail, including overtime — far more than any other jurisdiction in Virginia that provides a security detail. Few cities of Richmond’s size provide security details, and those that do usually have only one person assigned. Whether the council can enforce the amendment remains to be seen. Councilman Parker C. Agelasto noted that City Attorney Allen L. Jackson told the council that ensuring compliance with the amendment will not be an easy matter. Mr. Jackson, he said, encouraged the council to pass an ordinance to ensure compliance. The detail has been in place since former Mayor L. Douglas Wilder, a former Virginia governor, took office in 2005. Mayor Jones has not publicly stated any opposition to the change. According to the mayor’s press secretary, Tammy Hawley, Mayor Jones “reduced the staff when he took over (in 2009) by more than 50 percent.” The mayor has since “relied on the judgment of trained law enforcement to decide what resources would continue to be dedicated to that purpose,” she stated. Still, some Richmond residents have complained the detail is a waste of money, according to Ms. Trammell. Throughout his term, Mayor Jones has had a police driver and escort wherever he goes, whether to meetings, official events or social affairs where he brings city greetings, and also to unofficial activities, where he is on his own or with friends.

Area groups mobilize to register former inmates to vote Continued from A1

percent of the former felons are white people, while African-Americans “accounted for 45.9 percent of the disenfranchised population” despite African-Americans comprising only 19.4 percent of the state’s total population. Jack W. Gravely, executive director of the Virginia State NAACP, said he found the data “enlightening.” It “dispels some of the hysteria surrounding the governor’s executive order,” he said, because it indicates that most of those whose rights were restored “are above age 50, nonviolent offenders, have been out for 11 years and want to be good citizens. This speaks well for them and the courageous step taken by Gov. McAuliffe,”

he added. Despite the data showing nonviolent offenders overwhelmingly represent the majority of those regaining their rights, GOP leaders remain opposed to the mass restoration of rights. House Speaker William J. Howell, a Stafford County Republican, demanded again Tuesday that Gov. McAuliffe release information on the 40,000 violent offenders whose rights were restored. “To call this (information) irrelevant is a direct insult to the victims of these violent crimes,” Speaker Howell said. “The governor needs to explain why he thinks violent criminals should have the right to serve on juries that have an obligation to uphold the law.” He also called the information “delayed, incomplete and unverified.”

“We continue to press forward with our legal challenge,” Speaker Howell said. “Our legal team is working quickly to prepare a challenge to the governor’s executive order, and we plan to move forward very soon.” Hoping to stem the tide of rumor and myth, local leaders also are organizing events to educate communities, advocates and formerly incarcerated individuals on their right to vote. A town hall will be held 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 12, by Richmond Delegate Delores L. McQuinn, Henrico Sen. A. Donald McEachin, former Secretary of the Commonwealth Levar Stoney, City Council President Michelle R. Mosby and many others at Thirty-first Street Baptist Church, 823 N. 31st St., in the East End. Gov. McAuliffe is expected to

attend. Others groups are uniting as well to help former inmates. “We’ve got to strike while the iron is hot,” said Keith Hicks, a board member of the Richmond Crusade for Voters. The Crusade is partnering with Lisa Davis, founder of the Community Empowerment Alliance to hold a voter engagement and outreach event 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 14, at the Peter Paul Development Center, 1708 N. 22nd St., in Church Hill. The event will kick off a day of voter outreach and canvassing with the goal of registering 500 to 1,000 new voters throughout the city and surrounding counties. Volunteers from the alliance also will be providing information from

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at Applebee’s restaurants at 4306 S. Laburnum Ave., near The Shops at White Oak Village, and at 10151 Brook Road, near Virginia Center Commons. Ms. Davis points out that while former felons are the audience the alliance is targeting, the goal is to educate and register anyone, who for whatever reason, has opted out of participation in the political process. “It’s important not to simply say that you need to vote but to educate the community on the process,” she said. “It’s important to share what you know because, for some people, it might be, ‘Where do I go to vote?’ or ‘How do I register to vote?’ Some people don’t know where to start.”

Richmond Free Press

May 12-14, 2016 A5

News

Obama to Howard grads: ‘Be confident in your blackness’ By Hazel Trice Edney Special to the Free Press

WASHINGTON In his final seven months as America’s first African-American president, President Obama advised Howard University graduates on how to excel and impact change as black people in America. “First of all — and this should not be a problem for this group — be confident in your heritage. Be confident in your blackness,” the president told the audience of graduates and their families last Saturday to rousing applause. “One of the great changes that has occurred in our country since I was your age is the realization there’s no one way to be black.” President Obama’s speech to Howard had been a long time coming — near the end of his eight-year tenure leading the nation. He hinted that this culmination was intentional and appropriate. The historic black university, often called “the Mecca” because of its history and reputation as a bastion of black intellectualism, has produced leaders that changed the nation. “It is that spirit that has made Howard a centerpiece of AfricanAmerican intellectual life and a central part of our larger American story,” President Obama said. “This institution has been the home of many firsts: The first black Nobel Peace Prize winner. The first black Supreme Court justice. But its mission has been to ensure those firsts were not the last. Countless scholars, professionals, artists and leaders from every field received their training here. The generations of men and women who walked through this yard helped reform our government, cure disease, grow a black middle class, advance civil rights, shape our culture. The seeds

of change — for all Americans — were sown here.” The speech — which focused largely on how to build on the racial progress indicated by his elections — wowed the enthusiastic crowd and even impressed some of his strongest critics. After more than seven years in office, the president appeared to have turned a corner, becoming remarkably more candid and relaxed on the issues of race and racism. “He was conscious of the historical backdrop against which he offered his oration. He was unapologetically rooted in his own racial and ethnic identity,” said Georgetown University Professor Michael Eric Dyson as he left the graduation. “In fact, he encouraged the students and graduates and others to be proud of their ethnic heritage without being narrow and limited, but to embrace the broad variety of blacknesses that were marshaled under our own struggle.” Dr. Dyson, author of “The Black Presidency: Barack Obama and the Politics of Race in America,” pointed out that President Obama’s style was not scolding as it has occasionally been in the past as he spoke to black audiences. His 2013 speech to Morehouse College graduates in Atlanta was heavily scrutinized by some who thought his talk about work ethics and social responsibility were condescending. Some also criticized the 2011 speech in which he told the Congressional Black Caucus, “Take off your bedroom slippers, put on your marching shoes. Shake it off. Stop complaining, stop grumbling, stop crying.” At Howard, Dr. Dyson observed, “He wasn’t damning as he has been in the past. In the past he has been condescending and tone deaf to African-American culture and people. But this

Jose Luis Magana/Associated Press

President Obama is hooded by attorney Vernon E. Jordan, a member of Howard University’s Board of Trustees, as he receives an honorary doctor of laws degree during the Washington institution’s graduation ceremonies last Saturday.

speech was resilient, was ebullient and edifying in a way that it should be and was a beautiful, beautiful send off.” Morehouse graduate Perry Clemons agreed. “He was giving good advice,” says Mr. Clemons, a New York elementary school teacher, who especially appreciated President Obama’s encouragement to embrace blackness. “I feel like he’s coming out and he saying all these things … I don’t think he would have said any of that stuff in his first term … And he’s not saying that to the country. He’s saying it to black people. He’s never talked directly like that.”

Settlement reached in South Side mobile home suit By Jeremy M. Lazarus

The war over mobile homes in Richmond appears to have ended in a truce. Under a settlement approved Monday in federal court, the City of Richmond has agreed to modify an aggressive code enforcement program that led to the condemnation of dozens of mobile homes in the past three years, displacing mostly Latino families. The agreement affects 33 current and former residents of Rudd’s Trailer Park and Mobile Towne in South Side who had accused the city of housing discrimination in the push to force improvements to their aging mobile homes and those of hundreds of other owners who live in seven other mobile home parks in the city. “With the agreement, the city acknowledges that mobile homes play an important role in the affordable housing supply in Richmond,” said Phil Storey, lead attorney for the Legal Aid Justice Center, which took on the case as part of a coalition of nonprofits that rallied to support the city’s mobile home residents. Richmond Building Commissioner Douglas H. Murrow also was supportive. Responding to a Free Press query, he stated Tuesday, “We are on track with assuring through the settlement and good code enforcement that the citizens who reside in all of Richmond's mobile home parks will have safe dwellings and neighborhoods. “The area inspectors for the mobile home parks will continue to monitor the conditions in the parks as they currently do in any area

of the city,” he stated, indicating the agreement would not stop the city from enforcing its maintenance code or from condemning unfit mobile homes. However, he stated that he and his staff would “look at any future concerns on a case-by-case basis, being sensitive and flexible with the residents, without sacrificing critical health and safety needs. As with all citizens, city staff will provide recommendations for how (mobile home residents) can contact engineers and tradesmen as required, to provide affordable assistance with any issue that they might have.” Mr. Storey said the deal resulted from months of talks to address the concerns on both sides. He also praised Mark Rubin and Virginia Commonwealth University’s Center for Consensus Building for mediating the agreement. Under the deal, the city will pay a nominal $25,000 to the suing residents, Mr. Storey said. The city also is to create a $30,000 fund to assist residents to pay for repairs that were the target of the code enforcement action, with $15,000 coming from taxpayers and the rest from a private donation. The city also agreed to work with a nonprofit partner to assist residents in the nine mobile home parks to address maintenance code violations, Mr. Storey said. The partner has yet to be selected, but the hope is that it will also find additional dollars for the city fund. Also, the city agreed to drop its resistance to providing notices of code violations and appeal forms in Spanish and also to ensure better

VUU president to retire Continued from A1

although he would be on call to consult with an interim chief operating officer who is expected to be named before his leave starts. He already told board members he would not seek renewal of his contract, essentially ensuring a new president within 12 months. Dr. Perkins leaves VUU with glowing praise from the board, which is not shared universally by the students. He is credited with restoring luster to the university that had been struggling when he was named interim president in late January 2009, succeeding Dr. Belinda Anderson. Among other things, he increased enrollment, boosting the student population to record levels of 1,800 undergraduate and graduate enrollees at a time when other historically black schools continue to be challenged by shrinking enrollment. “Dr. Perkins’ work at Virginia Union has been truly transformative,” said Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, chairman the VUU Board of Trustees of the private, Baptist-affiliated school that traces its roots to the end of the Civil War. “We welcome this period to establish a transition while we have the benefit of his experience and input,” Dr. Richardson said. Dr. Richardson said the board plans to have the interim COO in place within six weeks and will then begin a search “to match new leadership with the vision for the school.” Along with raising enrollment, Dr. Perkins has made more than $30 million in campus improvements, including construction of the first new residential facility on the campus in the last 45 years that bears his name. But there is far more to be done, according to a faction of students who went public with their concerns in a petition on change.org that included a call for Dr. Perkins’ ouster. First posted a few weeks ago, the petition drew 342 signatures and calls for “a better leader” in citing problems with dorms. “We are living under terrible conditions — from mold to no hot water for weeks at a time and most importantly (bad) food (in the cafeteria),” the petition states. The petitioners also alleged a “misappropriation of funds,” although no specifics were

offered. The university has not publicly acknowledged nor responded to the petition, nor has Dr. Perkins. The students who posted the petition did not respond to Free Press requests for additional information. VUU has changed under Dr. Perkins, from having a fenced campus to offering its first graduate program outside the School of Theology — a master’s program that offers a degree in curriculum and instruction in education. He also added a new fine arts program, revived the band and choir and launched the Center for the Study of the Urban Child, the Center for International Studies and the Center for Small Business Development. Dr. Perkins also incorporated community service into the undergraduate curriculum, ensuring students, particularly scholarship winners, are involved as volunteers in the community as part of the school’s Christian mission. The school also awarded $25 million in scholarships during Dr. Perkins’ tenure, part of which came from a big-ticket annual scholarship gala that he began. He also led a successful $30 million fundraising campaign for the school. He created a partnership with the SunTrust Foundation that will bring a financial literary program on campus for VUU students, parents and Richmond area residents. Dr. Perkins came to VUU from Albany State University in Georgia, where he served as dean of the graduate school, associate vice president for academic affairs and a professor. He previously served as a professor and founder of the Center for Educational Leadership at Clarion University in Pennsylvania. A graduate of Mississippi Valley State University who later earned graduate degrees from Purdue and Ohio State universities, Dr. Perkins spent much of his career in public schools, including 10 years as a deputy and as an associate superintendent for Richmond Public Schools. He also served as superintendent of schools in Kansas City, Mo., and as superintendent for schools in Las Vegas-Clark County, Nev., and later as Nevada state secretary of commerce. He was so well regarded that an elementary school in North Las Vegas is named for him.

communications with people who do not speak English. In addition, the city agreed to train building inspectors and other code enforcement officials on the Fair Housing Act to avoid future conflicts, Mr. Storey said. In addition, he said Mr. Murrow no longer will require mobile home residents to pay for high-priced engineering plans in order to replace windows or make other common structural repairs. The previous insistence that residents hire engineers pushed the cost of repairs out of reach for most residents and ensured the repairs were not made. Also, the push to force mobile home owners to install expensive central heating in older homes also is being dropped, Mr. Storey said. He said the Legal Aid Justice Center won an appeal of the city’s interpretation of the building code that will allow the use of space heaters. “This settlement is a positive outcome for our

clients and for all mobile home park residents in the City of Richmond,” said Marie Diveley, senior counsel for Crowell & Moring LLP, which represented the residents without charge as did the Legal Aid Justice Center. Mobile home parks became a target for code enforcement in 2012 after inspectors began noticing that residents were building onto homes without obtaining required permits. City Councilwoman Reva Trammell raised concerns about the condition of the homes, particularly in Rudd’s at 2911 Jefferson Davis Highway, and inspections began turning up problems, such as aging electrical connections. According to Mr. Storey, at least half of the 106 homes in Rudd’s were condemned. The beleaguered owner sold the property. At Mobile Towne at Midlothian Turnpike and Belt Boulevard, about 50 of the residents received citations for building code violations.

Richmond Free Press

Swallowtail butterfly at Huguenot Flatwater Park

Editorial Page

May 12-14, 2016

Farewell, Dr. Perkins We were surprised to hear the news that Dr. Claude G. Perkins is ready to step down as president of Virginia Union University. Dr. Perkins, who has been at the helm for the last seven years, has provided solid leadership, putting the 150-year-old historic institution on more solid footing for the future. Under his guidance, the university has escaped the financial and enrollment woes that continue to threaten HBCUs across the nation. While the time, talent and treasure of alumni and friends still are a necessity, VUU has bright prospects at this time because of Dr. Perkins. Beginning July 1, Dr. Perkins will be on a yearlong sabbatical, after which his current contract will expire. We humbly suggest that perhaps Dr. Perkins, who has an extensive record with stellar results in K-12 education as superintendent of schools in Las Vegas-Clark County, Nev., rest during his sabbatical and return refreshed to the city — as a consultant or employee of Richmond Public Schools. The problems facing our public schools are substantial and urgent and their resolution could use the knowledge, expertise and problem-solving skills of a seasoned administrator. Perhaps that’s the next role Dr. Perkins can undertake to further bolster the future of young people in the Richmond community. We wish Dr. Perkins well during his deserved year off, and we hope this farewell isn’t forever.

Right to vote Sometimes you know you’re on the right path when you’re met with more and more resistance. That can be said in the case of more than 200,000 former inmates in Virginia whose voting rights were restored April 22 by Gov. Terry McAuliffe. The Democratic governor’s bold and courageous step is taking Virginia far beyond the empty rhetoric other politicians have espoused about wanting to re-integrate formerly incarcerated individuals into society. Allowing people who have completed their prison sentences and their supervised probation and parole to be re-engaged in the most basic and fundamental right of a democracy — the right to vote — goes a long way in getting someone to believe they have a stake in what happens in their life. Casting a ballot for the candidate of his or her choice can bring a renewed sense of self and acceptance into the community. We recall the sad history of Virginia politicians who, at the turn of the 20th century, building into law measures to disenfranchise as many African-Americans as possible. Now turn-back-the-clock Republicans in this state are determined to block those individuals with newly restored rights from participating in the democratic process. Why? Because those GOP members believe in endless punishment? Because they want to continue to stigmatize people who have been in prison? Or because they are afraid of what change could be brought about by 200,000 new voters whose perspective on life and justice may have been adjusted by spending time in prison? Republicans in this state are so afraid of what felons with ballots might do that they are spending thousands of dollars to hire Charles J. Cooper to try to block Gov. McAuliffe’s actions. He’s the same lawyer who defended California’s ban on gay marriage before the U.S. Supreme Court in 2013. He lost. What signal would such a lawsuit to block people from voting send? If nothing else, this should be a call to action for the 200,000-plus people who now have their rights restored. The call: To head to the nearest registrar’s office and sign up to vote. This weekend, a host of groups will be canvassing Richmond area neighborhoods to help inform and register such people. The next election is Tuesday, June 14 — Democratic and Republican primary elections to choose party candidates to run for the 4th Congressional District seat in November. The deadline to register to vote in the June 14 primary is Monday, May 23. President Obama, in his address last Saturday at Howard University’s commencement, urged people to consider what he could have accomplished as president if he’d been working with a Congress less intent to block his every move. Looking toward the November election when a new president and members of Congress will be elected, Republicans continue to vow to obliterate the federal Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, under which millions of Americans are now covered by health insurance. Such are the issues that can be impacted only by people who are registered to vote — and who actually turn out to cast ballots. The November presidential election and congressional elections are critical ones, as are City Council races and the contest for Richmond’s next mayor. The fight starts now. And it starts with you. Register today to vote. And then go to the polls on Tuesday, June 14, and cast your ballot.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Unwelcomed promises It’s human nature to develop methods of personal survival or providing for selfprotection. They’re not the same for everyone, but many are common. One predictable survival standard is that one should believe that a person will attempt to do that which she or he promises to do. One positive in politics is that we can counteract promises we don’t like with a simple tool — the vote. Recently, we’ve heard that Republican candidate Donald Trump has moved to “Presumptive Nominee.” Barring unforeseen circumstance, Mr. Trump will be the standard bearer for the Republican effort to regain the White House. Given the unpredictable nature of people and circumstance, Mr. Trump has a “theoretical possibility” of becoming president. The shock of that possibility should be followed with the

requirement for all Americans to explore the goals of a President Trump. We should want to know his most important policy initiatives and what they would mean for our country. Mr. Trump has promised to pursue four goals in his first 100 days in office which provide insight into what

E. Faye Williams to expect. They are: 1. Completing the design of his wall on the U.S.-Mexican border. 2. Stopping Muslim immigration. 3. Auditing the Federal Reserve. 4. Repealing the Affordable Care Act. One can only wonder about the completion of Trump’s “Great Wall.” His cost estimate of $10 billion for construction is far exceeded by the $25 billion construction estimate, not including maintenance, by many experts. The question is who will pay for it? Mexican officials already have negated any possibility of payment, but Mr. Trump has offered options as varied as forced

recompense from the $58 billion trade deficit to increasing fees on travel costs from Mexico to the United States or impounding remittance payments, monies sent home by undocumented Mexicans working in the United States. These monetary remedies seem as realistic as Mr. Trump’s objective to deport 12 million undocumented persons currently residing in the United States. Mr. Trump has doubleddown on his promise to stop Muslim immigration. Our nation has never used religion as a criteria for entry or immigration — temporary or permanent — but Mr. Trump proposes both. The obvious historical comparison is in the Nazi treatment of the Jews. While some critics of the Federal Reserve state that audits will bring that body more in line with the principles of democracy, Mr. Trump’s motivation seems clear. According to Libertarian Alex Jones, Mr. Trump wants a Fed audit to prove that interest rates are being held artificially low to stabilize the economy during the final months of the Obama presidency.

Flint, country in crisis The Flint water crisis is now two years old — and the water still isn’t safe to drink. There have been civil and criminal investigations, two congressional hearings and extensive reporting, particularly during the presidential primary in Michigan. G o v. R i c k Snyder appointed a special task f o r c e . Ye t only 33 pipes — 3 of every thousand — have been replaced. The Obama administration’s limited declaration of emergency was extended in April for four more months, but the administration made it clear no further extensions will be granted. State emergency resources will end at the same time. Residents still depend on bottled water and filters, and they won’t be supplied beyond August. Now residents are not only suffering from the lead poisoning but from depression and anxiety driven by an agony that it seems will never end. Melissa Mays, one of the mothers who forced the exposure of the poisoned water, appeared on my radio show last week. She is sick and tired of being sick and tired. At a demonstration protesting the two-year anniversary of

the crisis, she said, “Flint wasn’t a community that was ‘worth going out on a limb for.’ “So, our job is to prove them wrong. Our job is to show them we are not going to sit down and take this anymore. And you know what, I have been peaceful. I have tried to fight this in the courts, in the labs,

Jesse L. Jackson Sr. doing all the things to prove that the water was poisoned. We got that proof. The water is poisoned. And two years later, it is getting worse. “I watched my 13-year-old son damn near pass out today from blood tests looking for bacteria and immune disorders. He’s 13. So, I am reaching my breaking point. I’m tired of being peaceful. I’m tired of being nice. They’re not listening.” The city has gone back on water drawn from Lake Huron, as opposed to the toxic Flint River. But in mid-April, Professor Marc Edwards and the Flint Water Study team at Virginia Tech, the courageous team that helped expose the poisoning, reported that new testing shows Flint’s water remains unsafe to drink. The Flint crisis has led to the exposure of leaded water and aged pipes in other communities in America. But it is clear that Flint paid the price of being

poor and largely black. Now the Michigan Civil Rights Commission is holding its first hearings on the role that discrimination played in the crisis. Some indictments have come down, but the problem isn’t being solved. Gov. Snyder couldn’t find funds in the state to replace the lead pipes exposed by the toxic water. Yet he has allocated $1.2 million of state funds to pay private attorneys for his criminal defense fund. The residents want action. They need an emergency program to replace the lead pipes. They want an end to the state appointed emergency manager system. It was an unelected emergency manager, with no accountability to the residents of the city, who made the decision to use the toxic Flint River water. And they want Medicare coverage for all those impacted by the poisoning. This country continues to squander billions on failed “nation building” efforts on the other side of the world. We wasted more than $2 trillion on the debacle in Iraq that has helped destabilize the greater Middle East. It is time we stop pretending we can police the world and start rebuilding our country here at home. The writer is founder and president of the national Rainbow PUSH Coalition.

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.

How much more can be said about the proposed repeal of the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare? Mr. Trump’s goals and Republican efforts to do so border on the ridiculous and demonstrate their desire to put Americans back “under the thumb” of insurance companies. It’s that simple. More than promises, these are threats to many. If you agree with these First 100 Day objectives, you should vote for Mr. Trump or sit twiddling your thumbs on Nov. 8. If you don’t agree, then it’s time to commit to using the voting tool mentioned earlier and to inspire like-minded friends and neighbors to commit to using theirs to votes for different principles. The writer is national president of the National Congress of Black Women.

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Richmond Free Press

May 12-14, 2016

Letter to the Editor

Just hit ‘off’ switch Is watching the GOP’s political news broadening your 4-year-old’s vocabulary? Are they using terms like S.O.B. in front of grandma because John Boehner taught it to them? Wouldn’t you love Ted Cruz to teach your 4-year-old’s Sunday school class and talk to them about the ultraconservative American Legislative Exchange Council or the KKK? They could come home asking why Jesus and his disciples weren’t members of such groups. After all, Sen. Cruz, who professes to be a Christian, is a member of A.L.E.C. Then the same 4-year-olds could go the next Sunday to hear from Donald Trump. They would come home with an odd inferiority complex after the 69-year-old Mr. Trump tells them that they are ugly. All 4-year-olds should be so lucky as to have

double chins, wrinkles and a hairdo that looks like a vulture’s nest. If your 4-year-old comes home looking battered and bruised, The Donald loves to tell his followers to beat people up. The Good Samaritan never would be allowed in Mr. Trump’s Sunday school class. If you find the GOP political news to be “too entertaining” for your 4-year-old, then hit the TV’s “off” switch. Grandma also will thank you. If you yourself find the GOP to be too much — too much hate, racism, narcissism and meanness in general — then hit the “off” switch on them in November!

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VDOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you need more information in regards to your civil rights on this project or special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact the project manager at the telephone number listed above. State Project: 0600-026-268, 0001-026-107, P101, R201, C501 Federal Project: STP-5127 (762) (675)

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The Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) is seeking a Budget and Finance Analyst for its Operations and Finance Division. This position will be responsible for assisting in the development of the biennial budget and annual operating plan; monitoring expenditures and making operating plan adjustments; and preparing budget reports. The Budget and Finance Analyst must be able to prioritize work and manage multiple projects; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; work independently as well as collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team environment; work well under pressure in meeting deadlines; exhibit sound judgment in making decisions; and maintain confidentiality on sensitive matters. He or she should have experience interpreting policies and procedures, gathering and analyzing data, and writing brief reports. Demonstrated skill using computerized financial systems and the Microsoft Office Suite software (word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and communications) is required. A Bachelor’s degree with emphasis in accounting, business administration, public administration, or financial management and 1-3 years of experience is preferred. Hiring range: $41,000 -$55,000. Please apply online @ www.vatc.org/administration/employment/ Application deadline: May 27, 2016. EOE/M/F/V/D

Richmond Free Press

A8 May 12-14, 2016

Sports Stories by Fred Jeter

Curry wins MVP Award again

Stephen Curry, the best player on the NBA’s best team, has won his second straight MVP award. In so doing, the Golden State Warriors’ point guard became the first ever to win the MVP unanimously, collecting all 131 votes from a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters. The announcement was made Tuesday. The San Antonio Spurs’ Kawhi Leonard was a distant second, with 54 second place and 34 third place votes. Shaquille O’Neal in 2000 and LeBron James in 2013 came closest to perfection previously, garnering 120 of the 121 votes cast at the time. So how many MVPs can Curry win before he’s through? At 28, the brilliant Curry might have a shot at catching Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who won a record six MVP awards from 1971 to 1980. The 6-foot-3, 190-pound Curry averaged

You don’t have to examine his résumé to be convinced of Reggie Barlow’s success in football. Just look at his hand. With a Super Bowl ring glistening on one finger, Barlow was introduced, May 5 as Virginia State University’s third football coach in three years, and the fourth in five seasons. Coach Barlow inherits a Trojans squad that was 6-4 a year ago under Coach Byron Thweatt, and just two autumns removed from being the CIAA champion and NCAA Division II qualifier. “I’ve had a chance to look at the stats and watch the video — I’m impressed,” Coach Barlow said at the introductory news conference at VSU’s Gateway Dining & Event Center on the Ettrick campus. Among those in attendance was rising senior Tarian Ayres, who is in line to be VSU’s starting quarterback for the third straight year. Ayres, who is from Buckingham County, will be working with his third head coach — and third playbook. “There’s always a little transition with coaches, but we’ve got some older players who will adjust,” said Ayres, looking the part of the leader in white shirt and coat and tie. “I’m planning on staying here all summer and so are a lot of others. We all look to have an explosive offense.” Ayres was happy hearing that Coach Barlow, while coaching at Alabama State University from 2005 to 2014, groomed quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, who played in the NFL from 2006 to 2015. Other former ASU Hornets that Coach Barlow helped guide into the NFL were Isaiah Crowell (Cleveland), Terren Jones (Washington), Greg

30.1 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.7 assists this season, leading the Warriors to a bestin-NBA history 73-9 record. James, with four MVPs at age 31, is also a threat to Abdul-Jabbar’s record. It is easy making the case that Curry

Multiple MVPs NBA players with multiple MVP awards: • Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, 6 • Bill Russell, Michael Jordan, 5 each • Wilt Chamberlain, LeBron James, 4 each • Moses Malone, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, 3 each • Bob Pettit, Karl Malone, Tim Duncan, Steve Nash, Stephen Curry, 2 each * Pettit of the St. Louis Hawks won the inaugural MVP Award in 1956.

is the greatest long-distance shooter in basketball history. He buried a record 402 shots from beyond the arc this season, obliterating the old mark of 286 he set himself a year ago. He was something of a late bloomer coming out of Charlotte Christian High School in 2006. At the time, he was listed at 6-foot-2, 165 pounds. According to recruiting service Rivals, Curry drew only three scholarship offers — from nearby Davidson College, where he chose to attend, and also High Point University in North Carolina and Virginia Commonwealth University, where the team was coached at the time by Jeff Capel III. Curry’s 25-year-old brother, Seth, played at Liberty and Duke universities. Seth Curry is now a restricted free agent after playing this past season with the NBA’s Sacramento Kings.

Barlow ready to lead VSU Trojans Coach Reggie Barlow is introduced to the Trojans family last Thursday at Virginia State University.

Rudolph Powell/Richmond Free Press

Jenkins (Oakland) and Nigel Carr (Baltimore). Coach Barlow arrives at a bit of an awkward time — immediately following spring drills conducted by interim Coach Justin Harper. Looking ahead to official practices in August, Coach Barlow said, “It’s easier for one person

Coach Reggie Barlow Born: Jan. 22, 1973, Montgomery, Ala. High school: Sidney Lanier High School Class of 1992, Montgomery, Ala. College: All-SWAC receiver at Alabama State University, 1992-95; caught 133 passes for 2,536 yards. NFL: Jacksonville Jaguars 1996-2000; Oakland Raiders 2001; Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2002-03. Member of Tampa Bay’s 2003 Super Bowl championship team; played under Coach Tom Coughlin in Jacksonville and under Coach Jon

Gruden in Oakland and Tampa Bay. NFL career totals: Caught 39 passes for 522 yards and one touchdown; returned 73 punts for 158 yards and two touchdowns; returned 80 kickoffs for 1,855 yards and one touchdown. Coaching: Alabama State University quarterbacks coach, 2005-06; Alabama State head coach, 2007-2014 Coaching record: 49-42 overall; 38-28 in SWAC. VSU: Introduced as the Trojans head coach Thursday, May 5.

to adjust than for an entire team,” he said of his coaching style. As one might suspect of a former NFL wide receiver, Coach Barlow prefers a high-octane passing attack. Among his former NFL teammates while he played with the Oakland Raiders was NFL Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice. In Coach Barlow’s final season coaching at ASU, the Hornets averaged 30 points and 442 yards per game. His 2014 quarterback, Daniel Duhart, threw for 2,105 yards and 10 touchdowns, hitting 54 percent of passes. Last year, under Coach Brian Jenkins, ASU’s numbers dipped to 25.5 points and 373 yards an outing. At VSU, Coach Barlow will retain the bulk of the staff that served under Coach Thweatt. That includes Coach Harper, Almondo Curry, Alex Stadler, Mark Carney and Vatel Dixon. Some came with Coach Thweatt in 2015,

and have two-year contracts extending through the 2016 season. Coach Barlow applauded the returning coaches for “grinding” and “sticking to the process” during the transition. When asked, Coach Barlow did not rule out the possibility of some of his former Alabama State University athletes transferring to VSU. They would have immediate eligibility, moving from a NCAA FCS school to a Division II school. VSU wasn’t far from repeating as CIAA champions last season. But the Trojans lost 2219 to CIAA Northern Division champ Bowie State University and 28-27 to Northern Division runner-up Virginia Union University. Coach Thweatt left to become the linebackers coach at James Madison University in Harrisonburg. Coach Thweatt took over from Coach Latrell Scott, whose earned a 19-3 record through two seasons at VSU in 2013 and 2014. Coach Scott is entering his second season as head coach at Norfolk State University. And former VSU Coach Andrew Faison (58-52, 2002 through 2012) is now on Coach Scott’s staff in Norfolk. Like Coach Barlow, other alumni of Sidney Lanier High School in Montgomery, Ala., have gone on to gridiron greatness. Last year, the NFL presented Golden Commemorative Footballs to every high school producing a player to reach the Super Bowl. Lanier High received a whopping six golden footballs as the alma mater of Bart Starr (Green Bay Packers), Richmond Flowers (Dallas Cowboys), Johnny Davis (San Francisco 49ers), Jeno James (Carolina Panthers), Jackson (Seattle Seahawks) and Barlow (Tampa Bay Buccaneers). Coach Barlow becomes the second person associated with VSU to have been in the Super Bowl. Also receiving a Golden Commemorative Football in 2015 was Prince George High School, alma mater of Larry Brooks, who went on to star at VSU from 1968 to 1971 and with the Los Angeles Rams from 1972 to 1982. Brooks, who played with the Rams in Super Bowl XIV in January 1980, later returned to Ettrick as athletic director and assistant football coach. Lanier High School, nicknamed the Poets, has produced other famous people, including entertainers Toni Tennille and Hank Williams, who did not graduate, and George Wallace III, son of former Alabama Gov. George Wallace Jr.

Brothers rule court and diamond Klay Thompson is famous as one half of the “Splash Brothers” for the NBA juggernaut Golden State Warriors. Meanwhile, Thompson’s kid brother, Trayce, is making a big splash of his own — not on the court but on the baseball diamond. Trayce Thompson is an exciting 25-year-old outfielder with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The 6-foot-3, 225-pound Trayce launched one of the longest home runs ever May 3 at Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, in Clearwater, Fla. There’s something about those Thompsons and long distances. Klay — with 1,060 3-pointers through five NBA regular seasons and making 42 percent from beyond the arc — is among the elite long-range, 3-point bombers in history. Mychal and Julie Thompson’s three sons are uncommonly athletic. The oldest, 6-foot-7 Mychel, played with the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers in 2010-11 and was a member of the Santa Cruz Warriors of the NBA “D” League this past season. Klay and Steph Curry — the “Splash Brothers” — spurred Golden State to the 2015 NBA title and this year helped the Warriors to the best regular season record (73-9) in league history. A native of The Bahamas, dad Mychal Thompson was the NBA’s overall No. 1 draft pick in 1978 out of Minnesota. He starred in the NBA until 1992 and helped the San Antonio Spurs to 1987 and 1988 league crowns. Klay and Mychel followed in their dad’s sneaker steps athletically. So why did Trayce break with family tradition? After dabbling in the indoor sport as a child, he focused on the diamond. “I was always in baseball,” he told the media following his titanic home run in Tampa. “Even in high school, I always had a bat in my hand in

the house. 500 feet had it not been impeded “Growing up in the Northwest by the stadium structure. in the ’90s, the (Seattle) Mariners The day Trayce slugged the were a pretty big deal, so I was homer, the Golden State Waralways a baseball guy.” riors were playing. Luckily, the Trayce, who hits right-handed, Dodgers game ended much earlier alternates in the LA outfield with in Tampa. righties Yasiel Puig and Enrique At a postgame news conferHernandez and left-handers Joc ence for the Warriors, Klay talked Pederson and Carl Crawford. about his brother’s home run. After 23 games, he was hit- Klay Thompson Trayce Thompson “Did anyone see that home run ting .278, with two homers and Trayce hit?” he asked members nine runs batted in. of the media. “Man, he hit that thing like 550 feet. The home run in Tampa, off southpaw Matt That’s unbelievable.” Moore, was of historic proportions. Born in Ladera Ranch, Calif., Trayce starred in “I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Puig. baseball in Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif., and was It was about 370 feet to left-centerfield, where plucked by the Chicago White Sox in the second Thompson’s blast exited the park. round of the 2009 draft. He was traded to the DodgThe epic shot landed on Catwalk C, about 100 ers this past winter. feet above ground. It was only the sixth ball ever to African-Americans represent about 10 percent of reach that point since the stadium opened in 1990. major league baseball players, but there is quality, It was estimated the ball would have traveled nearly if not quantity.

VIA Heritage Association meeting May 21 The VIA Heritage Association will meet 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 21, at Azurest South Alumni House at Virginia State University. This will be final meeting before the inaugural Hall of Fame Banquet on June 20 at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Charlottesville. Twenty-nine alumni of Virginia Interscholastic Association schools will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. From 1954 to 1969, VIA was the governing body for athletics for African-American public schools in Virginia during segregation. For banquet ticket information, email info@viaheritage. com or call (202) 212-6131.

VUU places 9th in golf championship Joshua Mohun and Bart Kaminski helped Virginia Union University finish ninth among NCAA Division II schools at the National Minority College Golf Championships. The 30th annual event that concluded last Sunday was held at the PGA Golf Club in Port Joshua Mohun St. Lucie, Fla. Mohun, a sophomore from Richmond, shot 8179-78 for a 54-hole total of 238, while Kaminski, a

sophomore from Winnipeg, Canada, shot 79-79-81 for a 239 total. Also competing in Florida for VUU golf Coach E. Lee Coble were Brandon Bailey, Austin Haynes and Ricardo Andrews. Other CIAA schools competing at Port St. Lucie and their finishing rank were LivBart Kaminski ingstone College, third place; Fayetteville State University, fourth place; and Elizabeth City State University, 10th place.

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May 12-14, 2016 B1

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Richmond Free Press

Happenings

Personality: Laurinda Finn-Davis, RN

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Spotlight on Va. Health Dept.’s Central Region Nurse of the Year Laurinda Finn-Davis, RN, represents the epitome of giving. The reproductive health nursing supervisor with the Richmond City Health District regularly goes above and beyond the requirements of service and care to ensure that people are valued. “You might not remember my name, but you will remember how I treated you,” she says. And remember, they do. Ms. Finn-Davis’ ability to touch people’s lives and her service to patients, staff and community was recently recognized when she was honored as the Virginia Department of Health’s Central Region Nurse of the Year. She was honored during a ceremony last Thursday in Arlington. The event kicked off National Nurses Week, May 6 through 12. According to the Healthcare Workforce Data Center of the Virginia Department of Health Professions, there are more than 76,000 registered nurses (RNs) in the Virginia workforce. Yet annually, only three nurses in the state are honored as Nurse of the Year. Along with Ms. FinnDavis, a nurse from the state’s Northern and Eastern regions were honored. In her 36 years of nursing, Ms. Finn-Davis has achieved distinction as someone who is passionate about reproductive health. She supervises and guides the health department clinical team that includes other nurses, nursing students, interns, lab workers and social workers. She brings smiles to the faces of other nurses who work long hours caring for others, as well as to patients who are pregnant, struggling with illness or experiencing grief due to a loss. She recalls that when she first starting treating patients, one of the things she noticed was that she had to treat the whole person. “So, my goal was to treat them medically but to also reach them on an interpersonal level,” she said. “I needed to know that they had eaten and a place to stay, because if those were pressing issues for them, they wouldn’t listen to me,” she says. Often, Ms. Finn-Davis is a bright spirit at work because of the colorful hats, shirts and Christmas adornments she wears to cheer up patients during the holidays. She has become known as “Miss Christmas” and “Santa’s Helper” for her outfits. Regardless of season or reason, Ms. Finn-Davis is always about giving and connecting with people in a way that says, “You are special.” Paging this week’s Personality, Nurse Laurinda Finn-Davis: What I do: Supervise clinical staff; provide hands-on nursing care to maternity, family planning and triage patients; and serve as a group facilitator for Centering Pregnancy, Grief and Loss expertise, staff orientation, the Mayor’s Breastfeeding Commission and as a resource for incarcerated pregnant women. Date and place of birth: July 8, Fort Lee, Va. Current residence: Chesterfield County. Alma mater: Bachelor of science in nursing, University of Virginia. Family: Husband, Ronald Davis; daughter, Bianca Davis; and stepson, Sivad Davis. What this award means to me: Everything!! It is so special since it comes from my team whom I work directly with. My entire 36 years of nursing has been within women’s/children health and this

the pay and sometimes the issues of the world. You must have that passion to be a nurse and not just seek a paying job.

My next goal: To spend more time with my family and church. To inspire others to reach out and everyone grab a hand to help someone else.

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Advice to aspiring nurses: Don’t be afraid to show your emotions and empathy for others. Sometimes having a shoulder to cry on will work more wonders than just passing out a pill.

represents years of hard work and passion for the patients I see. Nursing covers so many areas and we are at the top of the list for being trustworthy by the public. To be recognized shows how much others appreciate what you do, but it is not my reason to continue. It just helps to validate that you are appreciated, and we all need that.

Men in the nursing field: Play a vital role in nursing because they serve as role models and validate the strong ties of caring to the male gender. Men can and do provide compassion and emotional support as well as their female peers. How I start the day: With daily Scripture and, with a focus on doing the best that I can with what I have to work with. You can make some great lemonade out of just water and lemons, but alone they might be as tasty. How I unwind: QVC shopping.

What motivates me: Positive relationships with family, friends, co-workers, patients and strangers. You never know how a kind word or gesture can make the difference in someone’s day.

I place top value on: Being fair to everyone.

Why I became a nurse: I always had a love for babies long before I became a mother myself. I come from a family of teachers, and nursing allows me to both care for and teach someone about their health. Understanding, along with compassion, hopefully lead to a positive outcome and enhanced attitude. Nursing is so varied that I knew I would be exposed to many different aspects of health care and never be bored. I am still amazed with every new pregnancy and the life that it brings with the traits and physical attributes of the parents. I respect those nurses working in other fields and applaud that ER nurse who is constantly running on adrenalin, that Communicable Disease nurse who evaluates and teaches about HIV and other infections that, in turn, can harm my reproductive patients. I tip my hat to those nurses working in correctional facilities who have to be mindful of their own safety, yet strive to provide care in a non-judgmental way to those who are cut off from society.

The one thing I can’t stand: A person who is judgmental.

Foremost reward of nursing: Seeing that “light bulb” go off when patients finally grasp what you have been teaching them about their diagnosis or medications. Their eyes light up and you get that warm feeling inside that you have made a difference. Foremost challenge: Making the identification of health issues but having limited resources. This is the case especially for mental health services. What it takes to become a good nurse: Determination and a strong desire to hang in there despite the long hours,

Best late-night snack: A warm brownie. Prized possession: An upside-down Christmas tree.

No one knows that I: Cannot swim, which is why my daughter learned as a child and now my 18-month-old grandson is taking classes. Persons who influenced me the most: My grandmother. She raised me and other family members. She went blind but was one of the most insightful persons I have ever met. She lived to be 97 and her faith got her through many trials of life. If I had more time, I would: Volunteer more in the community. Book that influenced me the most: “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou. What I’m reading now: “The Prayer of Jabez” by Bruce Wilkinson.

sponsors suntrust genworth financial the city of richmond the e. rhodes and leona b. carpenter foundation the richard and caroline t. gwathmey memorial trust the beirne carter foundation vcu health rotary club of richmond

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may 20-22 at abner clay park

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friday 5-7:30 pm | saturday 12-8:30 pm | sunday 12-6 pm

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visit celebratejacksonwardrva.com

Richmond Free Press

B2 May 12-14, 2016

Happenings Thursday …

Ayasha Sledge

Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia opens with 3-day event

Story told

Hundreds of people joined in the grand opening celebration last weekend of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia in Jackson Ward. The three-day event started last Thursday with a ribbon-cutting at the museum’s new site in the renovated Leigh Street Armory, 122 W. Leigh St. The $100-aperson cocktail reception that followed, hosted by Daphne Maxwell Reid, drew a cross-section of history buffs and wellwishers from the Richmond area. The celebration continued last Friday with music by Plunky & Oneness and poetry by Tuesday Verses in the galleries as part of the First Fridays event in Downtown. On Saturday, scores of families arrived to view the exhibits and photographs and enjoy the interactive panels that detail the African-American contributions to Richmond, the state and beyond. The open house also featured special performances for children by Culture Queen. Above, from left: Dr. Monroe E. Harris Jr. and Hossein Sadid, BHM board members, toast to a successful opening.

Board Co-chair Bessida Cauthorne White and Chairwoman Marilyn H. West helped lead the multimillion-dollar project. Elijah Crawley, 12, an Elko Middle School student and son of museum director Tasha Chambers, learns firsthand from former Gov. L. Douglas Wilder. Center, left: Dr. and Mrs. D. Omar Watson engage in an exhibit in the shadow of the cast of a statue of Richmond native and tennis great Arthur Ashe Jr. that now sits on Monument Avenue. Center, right: Museum Director Tasha Chambers greets guests at the VIP reception Thursday. Below, left to right: The newly renovated armory offers 12,000 square feet of exhibit space on two floors, where the First Fridays crowd enjoyed food and music during the opening. Visitors had time and space during Saturday’s open house to peruse the Transatlantic Conversations exhibit. Shenelle Reed strolled with her yearold son, Ka’Leel, who was engrossed in the portraits of Yemaya by Arturo Lindsay, while Hope Bibbs posed with “Fat Albert” in the “Funky Turns 40” exhibition.

Ayasha Sledge

Friday …

James Haskins/Richmond Free Press

Saturday …

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Richmond Free Press

May 12-14, 2016

Happenings

VUU grads rejoice

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➊ Tears of joy, smiles and cheers mark the graduation ceremony last Saturday for Virginia Union University’s Class of 2016. 1) Football star Kevius Morgan happily reacts after receiving his diploma. Looking on, from left, are Dr. Walton Belle, who was awarded an honorary doctorate for his 45 years of service as physician to VUU’s athletic teams; Dr. Frederick D. Hayes III, an activist minister who also received an honorary doctorate; Carolyn W. Jacobs, president of the VUU National Alumni Association; and

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commencement speaker Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott. 2) VUU President Claude G. Perkins congratulates valedictorian Veronica Pegram of Mechanicsville, who earned her degree in biology. 3) VUU graduates wave to family and friends at Hovey Field. 4) Theology school graduates, from left, Donna Cosby, Sheila Dent, Rona Evans and Alice Freeman shed tears of joy as the VUU choir sings. 5) Dr. Perkins hoods businessman and VUU supporter William A. Royall Jr. with an honorary doctorate.

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

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Benefit concert Sunday for Interfaith Council of Greater Richmond Hebrew music guitarist Yhoshuah Adama and the gospel-based Whosever Will Choir of Virginia Union University will headline a benefit concert this weekend for the 87-yar-old Interfaith Council of Greater Richmond. The program is 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 15, at the Art Works Studios & Galleries, 320 Hull St., in South Side. Mr. Adama is an African-American performer known for his captivating and engaging music. Also performing is Jaa Beatz, founder of the

Peace Culture Club in Richmond and the La’Sol collective for independent music producers. The choir is based at the VUU School of Theology. The event also will include readings of sacred poetry by Archie Abaire, president of the nonprofit Virginia Interfaith Power and Light. The concert will benefit the umbrella council that was born in 1929 and that seeks to develop understanding, respect and cooperation among the various faiths. Today, the council includes 74

Upcoming Free Health Seminars

congregations that include 10 varied Christian denominations as well as Baha’i, Buddhism, Eckankar, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism, Sikhism, Taoism and Zoroastrianism.

Tickets: $15 for adults and $7 for students and children age 5 and older. Further information: ICGR.org or Interfaith_ Council@live.com.

James Haskins/Richmond Free Press

¿Que Pasa? Richmond A colorful canal boat provides free rides to participants at the ¿Que Pasa? Festival, which translates to “what’s happening.” Organizers of the festival last weekend in Downtown used decorations to transform the Canal Walk into a semblance of the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco in Mexico City. The event featured music, dance, food, drink and arts and crafts celebrating Latin American culture.

VCU Health will be offering the following free health seminars at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s Kelly Education Center, located at 1800 Lakeside Avenue. Registration is recommended. Free parking available.

Thursday, May 12 | 5:30 p.m.

10 Things to Share With Your Gynecologist Women generally see their gynecologist once a year. This is the best time to ask personal health questions, no matter how uncomfortable or embarrassing. Walk away less anxious and more knowledgeable about your health by joining Dr. Mireille Truong as she discusses these personal, but important health issues.

Thursday, May 19 | 5:30 p.m.

A-fib Patients: Reduce Your Stroke Risk

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

For anyone living with atrial fibrillation (a-fib), the risk of stroke is much greater and blood thinners are often part of the treatment. Join Dr. Jayanthi Koneru to learn more about a new, non-drug treatment that lowers the risk of stroke for patients with non-valvular a-fib.

Be a lion

Tuesday, May 24 | 5:30 p.m.

Breast Imaging: Truths About Mammograms Screening or diagnostic? Which one do you need? And at what age? What about dense tissue? How do ultrasound and MRI fit in the equation? Join Dr. Priti Shah as she answers your questions about mammograms.

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Mykal Ashlee, a cast member of the popular musical “Disney’s The Lion King,” teaches dance moves to children at the Child Development Center at Greater Brook Road Baptist Church, 4208 Chamberlayne Ave. He stopped by last Friday to work with children, just two days before the traveling musical ended its run at the Altria Theater on Sunday.

Richmond Free Press

B4 May 12-14, 2016

Faith News/Directory

African-American cemetery in Charlottesville to be restored Associated Press

CHARLOTTESVILLE The Daughters of Zion Cemetery was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010, but there are no markers telling of the Charlottesville cemetery’s cultural and historical significance. Instead, there’s trash and sinking and broken gravestones. That may all change soon, however, as the city will host a rededication of the cemetery that’s been degrading for decades. In addition to the rededication, $80,000 in public funding will be used to restore the historic African-American cemetery. According to advocates, the restoration project will give the public an opportunity to revisit and honor the lives of African-Americans who lived in Charlottesville, some of whom impacted the area in a significant way. “The final resting place for these trailblazers should be reflective of the life that they lived — very dignified and respectable,” said Maxine Holland, an advocate for the restoration of the cemetery. Those trailblazers include Benjamin Tonsler and Burkley Bullock, African-American men who became professionals after emancipation who were deeply involved in the community.

Mr. Tonsler’s legacy lives on as contemporary social activists are challenging schools, governments and businesses to hire more people of color as a way to diversify the workplace, inspire young people and reflect today’s demographics. Born enslaved, Mr. Tonsler eventually was freed and became a schoolteacher. Years later, he became principal of the city’s segregated Jefferson Graded School, which he headed for about 30 years. During that time, Mr. Tonsler encouraged and motivated hundreds of children. Mr. Bullock, a late19th century magnate in local real estate, helped foster a community of African-American businesses and homeowners through the Piedmont Industrial and Land Improvement Company, a nineman firm that financed home sales and developed property.

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While their stories and those of others continue to be shared and celebrated in some circles, a landmark to their lives is practically forgotten. The resting place, Ms. Holland said, should reflect the “elegance and honor” that such individuals created in an exciting, self-revolutionary period. Following a Dialogue on Race conference about the cemetery last year, The Preservers of the Daughters of Zion Cemetery was established. In a fashion similar to the original Daughters of Zion, a female-run African-American mutual aid society that founded the cemetery in 1873, the group of women, several of whom have family buried in the cemetery, organized to effect change. “That was one of the motivating factors for the purchase of that property,” Ms. Holland said. “They

Wilson & Associates’ Monthly Obituary Column • April 2016

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

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

Shirley W. Williams Jean J. Mayrant Shaun B. “Mouse” Johnson Alice B. Williams Junius Brooks Winston J. Wiesner, Sr. Frances E. Ross Ashley D. Coles Marlon D. “MP” Poindexter Bernice H. Collins Nassau B. “Champ” Lucas, Jr.

Malton R. Newman Bernadette E. Brooks Pearl A. Brooks George E. Spurlock, Jr. Linda C. Roberts William B. Thomas, Sr. Claudine F. Johnson Fred L. Williamson Lutricia W. Miller Carl L. Bond

Van Buren “Sweety” Alexander Clifton M. Johnson, Jr. Tommie Purnell Emmett H. “Herman” Anderson Charles Rich Perry Eberhardt Shirley T. Harper Richard L. Williams Eric L. Brown Rochelle D. Coles

St. Peter Baptist Church A progressive suburban church is seeking grant writers and a video media technician. Interested persons please forward resumes to spbcoffice@verizon.net. Salaries are negotiable.

A Downtown Richmond Church has an immediate opening for an experienced Administrative Assistant to join a small team. The ideal candidate is a computer savvy, reliable, self-starter who takes pride in their work. The skills needed include: good customer service, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and the ability to prioritize. This position requires about 30 hours per week with pay ranging between $12-17 per hour. A criminal background check is required. Email resume to rvachurchpersonnel@ gmail.com.

Needed

1st, 3rd, 4th Sundays Forward resume to: Shiloh Baptist Church P.O. Box 973 Powhatan, VA 23139 Or call Darlene at (804) 921-2564

Jr.

Wednesday, May 18, 2016 • Rev. Michael R. Lomax Westwood Baptist Church, Richmond, VA Worship at 7:00 p.m. Nightly 2040 Mountain Road • Glen Allen, Virginia 23060 Ofﬁce 804-262-0230 • Fax 804-262-4651 • www.stpeterbaptist.net

Triumphant Baptist Church

is seeking a part-time custodian. Interested persons please forward resumé to triumphantbaptist@verizon.net or mail to 2003 Lamb Avenue, Richmond, VA 23222 Salary is negotiable.

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

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

6:30 PM Prayer Meeting

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

Remember... At New Deliverance, You Are Home! See you there and bring a friend

With Mission, Growth, Prayer, Purpose, Vision We Are Growing In The Kingdom As We Grow The Kingdom

Women’s Day 2016 Sunday, May 15, 2016

WOMEN IN WORSHIP 10:45 AM – Message by: Rev. Almeta Ingram 3:00 PM – Bishop Mary Bonner and Harvest International Full Gospel Church Family & Friends Weekend Sat. May 28th & Sun. May 29th 400 South Addison Street Richmond, Va. 23220 (near Byrd Park) (804) 359-1691 or 359-3498 Fax (804) 359-3798 www.sixthbaptistchurch.org

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

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

11:00 AM Mid-day Meditation

New Deliverance Evangelistic Church

Theme for 2016: Becoming a Five-Star Church of Excellence

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

Monday March 7, 2016 Corporate Prayer Attendance - 167

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

Wednesday Services Noonday Bible Study 12noon-1:00 p.m. Attendance - 78 Sanctuary - All Are Welcome! Wednesday Evening Bible Study 7 p.m. Attendance - 131

Saturday 8:30 a.m. Intercessory Prayer

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

Zion Baptist Church 2006 Decatur Street, Richmond, VA 23224 804-859-1985 | zbcoffice@verizon.net Dr. Robert L. Pettis, Sr., Pastor

Spring Revival

“Redeemed, Renewed, Rekindled” Matthew 5: 13-16

Monday, May 16 thru Wednesday, May 18, 2016 7:00 PM Nightly Guest Evangelist: Rev. Dr. Jerome C. Ross, Pastor Providence Park Baptist Church

Children’s Church (Age 12 and under)

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

Family and Friends day Sunday, May 15, 2016

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)

Sixth Baptist Church

Pastor Kevin Cook

To advertise your church events in the Richmond Free Press call 644-0496

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

Monday, May 16, 2016 • Rev. Gregory Washington St. Mark Baptist Church, Maidens, VA

“MAKE IT HAPPEN”

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Good Shepherd Baptist Church

“Under Grace We Walk By Faith” · 2 Corinthians 5:7

Tuesday, May 17, 2016 • Rev. Kenneth E. Rioland, Union Branch Baptist Church, Chesterfield, VA

Musician

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

Spring Revival

Facebook sixthbaptistrva

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

Come and Join us in Worship as we Celebrate

Rev. Dr. Yvonne Jones Bibbs, Pastor

Brian V. Wilson Owner

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

Dr. Kirkland R. Walton, Pastor

Twitter sixthbaptistrva

nance and use of the cemetery started to wane in the 1970s once cemeteries were no longer segregated. It was around that time that the city took over the site. The Daughters of Zion had disbanded almost four decades earlier and several of the families that owned burial plots had either died or moved from the Charlottesville area. The burial plots still belong to the families, meaning the city is not allowed to work on them without their permission. The city has engaged in light maintenance of the site since then, mostly just mowing the grass and trimming trees when necessary. The rededication ceremony for the Daughters of Zion Cemetery will be held 2 p.m. Sunday, May 29. The ceremony will be followed by a reception at the Barrett Day Care Center on Ridge Street.

Thank you to the following bereaved families for allowing us to serve you during the month of April 2016. You are still in our prayers and thoughts. View full obituaries online at www.wilsonafs.com

St. Peter Baptist Church

with Word, Worship and Witness

the rededication ceremony. More work at the cemetery is needed, however. It’s believed that half of the graves are not visible. Approximately 300 people are believed to be buried there, but a geophysical survey could reveal where people are interred. Because of vandalism, maintenance mishaps, migrating tree roots, weather and soil erosion, many of the graves have been displaced and damaged, said Edwina St. Rose, a descendant of Mr. Bullock. Mr. Bullock’s gravestone is identifiable, but its current location does not match the historical record of where he was buried originally. Among the goals of the restoration project is relocation of gravestones to their original sites. Although people were buried at the site until 1995, mainte-

“Working For You In This Difficult Hour”

Funeral Service, Inc.

Administrative AssistAnt

Riverview

wanted their family members to have a place of dignity and ownership. In the 1800s, that was an emphasis in theAfrican-American community — own your own, whether it’s your cemeteries, your house or your business. That was the theme.” Bernadette Whitsett-Hammond, a member of the group whose great-grandmother Mary Nelson Lewis was a founding member of Ebenezer Baptist Church, said she believes the cemetery still “reveals itself as a place of reverence” despite its current condition. At the conference last year, the city’s Historic Resources Committee said it had put together plans for a marker that will be installed at the location. Mary Joy Scala of the city committee said a new, $1,787 bronze marker, designed by Franklin Bronze Plaques, will go up this month at

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Hebrews 12:14 (KJV) www.ndec.net Tune in on Sunday Morning to WTVR-Channel 6 - 8:30 a.m. THE NEW DELIVERANCE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (NDCA)

ENROLL NOW!!! Accepting applications for children 2 yrs. old to 3rd Grade Our NDCA curriculum also consists of a Before and After program. Now Enrolling for our Nursery Ages 6 weeks - 2yrs. old. For more information Please call (804) 276-4433 Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm

No 8:00 AM Service • 9:30 AM Sunday School 11:00 AM - Morning Worship

Message By: Rev. Dr. Paul A. Coles, Pastor Special Guests: The Coles Sisters, Jerusalem Baptist Church, Manakin Sabot, VA, Deacon Edwin Riddick, Mt Olivet Baptist Church, Richmond, VA

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

2016 Theme: The Year of Restoration



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

Sundays

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

Tuesdays

Noon Day Bible Study

Wednesdays

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

Mosby Memorial Baptist Church

“A Caring Community Committed to Listening, Loving, Learning and Leaning While Launching into our Future.”

May 15, 2016

Joinus for morning worshipat 10:30 A.M.as we celebrate Family & Friends Day. Revival May 16 - May 19, 7:00 P.M. Nightly Ministering on May 16/17:

Rev. Dr. Adam L. Bond Providence Baptist Church, Ashland

Ministering on May 18/19:

Rev. Kimberly Ridley The Light Community Church, Richmond

June 5, 2016 First Pastoral Anniversary Celebration

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

Richmond Free Press

May 12-14, 2016

Obituary/Faith News/Directory

Northside Crusaders Baptist Church founder, Rev. John F. Tyler Jr., dies at 100

Rev. John F. Tyler Jr.

The Rev. John F. Tyler Jr. was born in 1916, early enough to experience direct contact with the survivors of slavery. He also lived long enough to see the election of the nation’s first African-American president. He was raised with four brothers and a sister in Varina, then a small enclave outside of Richmond, during a period of harsh segregation and severely restricted opportunities for African-Americans. With intermittent opportunities for formal education, he

often taught himself the lessons that needed to be learned, and refused to be defined by obstacles or limitations. He studied, eventually becoming an ordained minister at First Bethel Baptist Church in Varina more than 61 years ago. He moved to Richmond in 1965, and 10 years later founded the Northside Crusaders Baptist Church. Rev. Tyler, who turned 100 on Feb. 5, died Friday, May 6, 2016. He will be remembered dur-

ing a funeral service 11 a.m. Saturday, May 14, 2016, at Mosby Memorial Baptist Church, 2901 Mechanicsville Turnpike. The family will receive friends 6 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 13, 2016, at Scott’s Funeral Home, 115 Brookland Park Blvd. Rev. Tyler was a jovial man who “loved the Lord, life and family,” said his daughter Catherine Wells. Even raising nine children, he “made sure we got to Sunday school every Sunday, walking us all down that old dirt road to the

church,” she recalled. In Richmond, he pastored at Northside Crusaders Baptist Church for 32 years until he passed the baton to his son, the Rev. Theodore Tyler Sr., in 2007. He was preceded in death by his wife, Hattie H. Tyler; two daughters, Diane Echols and Annie Morris; and two sons, John F. Tyler III and Robert Tyler Sr. Rev. Tyler is survived by three daughters, Catherine Wells of New York City, and

Mary Anderson and Monette Moore of Richmond; two sons, the Rev. Theodore Tyler Sr. and Earl Tyler Sr. of Richmond; along with 23 grandchildren.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH CENTRALIA ESTABLISHED 1867

2920 KINGSDALE ROAD, NORTH CHESTERFIELD, VIRGINIA 23237 DR. WILSON E. B. SHANNON, PASTOR WWW.FIRSTBAPTISTCENTRALIA.ORG CHURCHOFFICE@FIRSTBAPTISTCENTRALIA.ORG (804) 275-0407

CELEBRATING 149TH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 - 11AM GUEST SPEAKER:

REV. DR. RALPH REAVIS, PASTOR EMERITUS RIVERVIEW BAPTIST CHURCH PROFESSOR OF CHURCH HISTORY SAMUEL D. PROCTOR SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY

Union Baptist Church

1813 Everett Street Richmond, Virginia 23224 • 804-231-5884 Rev. Robert C. Davis, Pastor

UBC Celebrates Women

Theme: Women Preparing For Such A Time As This (Greater Is Coming) Esther 4:14

Annual Women’s Day

Sunday, May 22, 2016 – 11:00a.m. Speaker: Rev. Lucinda Williams, Pastor Elect First Baptist Church of Soul City, Norlina, North Carolina Music by Women of Union

Thirty-first Street Baptist Church C

The Richmond Extension of the

Fredericksburg Bible Institute & Seminary is offering summer classes:

Tuesday

9AM-11AM 1, 2, & 3 John

6:30PM-8:30PM Study of Galatians

120 Wyck St., Suite 147, Richmond, VA 23225

REGISTRATION: June 2 and 3, 10:30AM-1PM; 6PM-8PM Late registration: Monday June 6 Contact: Dr. Gail Williams, 804-323-5957 gail.williams512@gmail.com

The Richmond Police Department is hosting a safety awareness forum for places of worship from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, May 14, at the Richmond Police Training Academy, 1202 W. Graham Road. The forum will discuss how a few simple procedures can greatly improve the security and safety of places of worship. Topics include general safety, preparing for an emergency, firearms in places of worship and pastoral protection. The event is free, but registration is required. Groups and congregations should send no more than four representatives. Register onsite between 8:30 and 9 a.m., or register online at www.eventbrite. com. Details: Officer Kimberly Cheatham-McClarin at (804) 646-6754.

Antioch Baptist Church “Redeeming God’s People for Gods Purpose”

1384 New Market Road, Richmond, Virginia 23231 | 804-222-8835

SERVICES

SUNDAY WORSHIP HOUR – 10:00 A.M. CHILDREN’S CHURCH & BUS MINISTRY AVAILABLE SUNDAY SCHOOL (FOR ALL AGES) – 9:00 A.M. TUESDAY MID-DAY BIBLE STUDY – 12 NOON WEDNESDAY MID-WEEK PRAYER & BIBLE STUDY – 7:00 P.M.

DR. JAMES L. SAILES PASTOR

A MISSION BASED CHURCH FAMILY EXCITING MINISTRIES FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH, YOUNG ADULTS & SENIOR ADULTS BIBLE REVELATION TEACHING DIVERSE MUSIC MINISTRY LOVING, CARING ENVIRONMENT

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

❖

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

823 North 31st Street Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 226-0150 Office www.31sbc.org

6:30PM-8:30PM Study of Joseph

Thursday

Classes start June 7 (1.5 credits each)

everence e with e evanc R g in Dr. Morris Henderson, Senior Pastor bin

WEDNESDAY MAY 25, 2016 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Recap (Q&A) of the month’s Bible studies on Esther with a sermon by Rev. Dr. Deborah Martin, Pastor of Real Life Ministries, Chester VA Featuring our Women’s Day Choir

Tuesday

Police host safety forum

Reverend Dr. Lester D. Frye Pastor and Founder

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

Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

Ebenezer Baptist Church

Come Join Us!

“The People’s Church”

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

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

1858

216 W. Leigh St. • Richmond, Va. 23220 • Tel: 804-643-3366 Fax: 804-643-3367 • Email: ebcofﬁce1@comcast.net • web: ebcrichmond.org Sunday Worship Sunday Church School Service of Holy Communion Service of Baptism Life Application Bible Class Mid-Week Senior Adult Fellowship Wednesday Meditation & Bible Study Homework & Tutoring Scouting Program Thursday Bible Study



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

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

Women’s Day You Are Invited to

Garland Avenue Baptist Church for

Sunday, May 15, 2016

Speaker:

Dr. Jamelle Smith Wilson

Former Position: Superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools Present Position: Dean of Professional and Continuing Education The University of Richmond

Theme: WOMEN OF PURPOSE Remembering The Past, Celebrating The Present, Preparing

“Come and be blessed.” Dr. Jeffery O. Smith, Pastor 2700 Garland Avenue, Richmond, Virginia 23222-3602 804-321-1372

for The Future

B6 May 12-14, 2016

Richmond Free Press

Legal Notices/Employment Opportunities Continued from previous column

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 Friday, May 13, 2016 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. 2016-053 As Amended To adopt the General Fund Budget for the fiscal year commencing Jul. 1, 2016, and ending Jun. 30, 2017; and to appropriate the estimated revenues for such fiscal year for the objects and purposes stated in the said budget. Ordinance No. 2016-057 As Amended To appropriate and to provide funds for financing the school budget for the fiscal year commencing Jul. 1, 2016, and ending Jun. 30, 2017. Ordinance No. 2016-058 As Amended To accept a program of proposed Capital Improvement Projects for the fiscal year beginning Jul. 1, 2016, and for the four fiscal years thereafter; to adopt a Capital Budget for the fiscal year beginning Jul. 1, 2016; and to determine the means of financing the same. Ordinance No. 2016-141 To amend ch. 26, art. III, div. 3 of the City Code, concerning the City Assessor, by adding therein a new section 26-105, for the purpose of requiring the City Assessor to assess certain new buildings substantially completed or fit for use and occupancy, and to abate levies on buildings razed, destroyed or damaged by fortuitous happenings. 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 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, May 23, 2016 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. 2016-097 As Amended To reduce the speed limit on Semmes Avenue between West 22nd Street and Forest Hill Avenue from 35 miles per hour to [25] 30 miles per hour. Ordinance No. 2016-102 As Amended To authorize the conditional use of the property known as 100 South 14th Street for the purpose of authorizing a nightclub, upon certain terms and conditions. The Richmond Downtown Master Plan designates this property as an Urban Center Area. “Shockoe Slip is also an example of a classic urban center condition, with a dense mix of office space, apartments, and retail located in four to six-story brick buildings that front the street. Pedestrians have an active presence in these neighborhoods (p. 3.26).” Ordinance No. 2016-125 As Amended To amend City Code §§ 27-197, concerning prohibitions on parking in specified places, and 27-219, concerning fines for parking violations, for the purpose of prohibiting parking on curbs[,] and on medians[, and in bicycle lanes]. Ordinance No. 2016-130 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to accept funds in the amount of $10,000 from the United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg and to appropriate the increase to the Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Special Fund Budget by increasing estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to the Department of Social Services by $10,000 for the purpose of providing funding for the 2016 Adverse Childhood Experiences and Community Resilience Summit to be held Aug. 3 through Aug. 4, 2016. (Committee: Education and Human Services, Thursday, May 12, 2016, 5:00 p.m., Council Chamber)

for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Lease of Property between the City of Richmond, as Lessor, and People Cycle, Inc., doing business as Richmond Cycling Corps, as Lessee, for the purpose of leasing to People Cycle, Inc., doing business as Richmond Cycling Corps, a certain portion of the Cityowned property located at 3011 Water Street. (Committee: Land Use, Housing and Transportation, Tuesday, May 17, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber) Ordinance No. 2016-135 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Sixth Amendment to the Agreement for the Provision of Services in the Downtown Richmond Special Service and Assessment Districts between the City of Richmond and Venture Richmond, Inc., for the purpose of extending the term of the agreement to June 30, 2021. (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber) Ordinance No. 2016-136 To approve the Work Plan and Budget for the fiscal year ending Jun. 30, 2017, for the provision of services in the Downtown Richmond Special Service and Assessment Districts. (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber) Ordinance No. 2016-137 To amend ch. 12, art. II of the City Code by adding therein a new section 12-37, concerning the disposition of revenues from the City’s meals tax, for the purpose of funding the operation of public schools in the city. (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber) Ordinance No. 2016-138 To amend ch. 12, art. II of the City Code by adding therein a new section 12-37, concerning the disposition of 100% of the City’s year-end General Fund surplus, for the purpose of funding the operation of public schools in the city. (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber) Ordinance No. 2016-139 To amend ch. 12, art. II of the City Code by adding therein a new section 1237, concerning the disposition of 75% of the City’s year-end General Fund surplus, for the purpose of funding the operation of public schools in the city. (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber) Ordinance No. 2016-140 To amend ch. 12, art. II of the City Code by adding therein a new section 12-37, concerning the disposition of certain revenues from real estate taxes, for the purpose of funding the operation of public schools in the city. (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber) Ordinance No. 2016-142 To amend Ord. No. 201573-84, adopted May 15, 2016, which adopted a General Fund Budget for Fiscal Year 2015-2016 and made appropriations pursuant thereto, to transfer funds in the amount of $2,960,000 from that portion of the fund balance committed to the Revenue Stabilization and Contingency Policy as identified in the City’s 2014 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, to appropriate $2,760,000 to the Finance agency, Risk Management program for the purpose of consummating the proposed resolution of the Cephas v. City of Richmond case by mutual agreement authorized by Res. No. 2016-R____, adopted ________, 2016, and paying costs incidental thereto, and to appropriate $200,000 to the Human Resources agency for the purpose of conducting a Citywide review and revision of the City’s job classification and compensation programs. Ordinance No. 2016-143 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Ninth Amendment to Management Agreement between the City of Richmond and the Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority, for the purpose of extending until Jun. 30, 2017, the Management Agreement for Main Street Station. (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber)

Ordinance No. 2016-134 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer,

Ordinance No. 2016-144 To amend ch. 6 of the

Continued on next column

Continued from previous column

City Code by adding therein a new art. XI, consisting of a new div. 1 with §§ 6-581—6-582 and a new div. 2 with §§ 6-591—6-595, for the purpose of establishing five tourism zones pursuant to Va. Code § 58.1-3851. (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber)

It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 15th day of June, 2016 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

defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 27th day of May, 2016 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

is to: Determine custody of Kristopher Lamont Brooks ( D O B : 11 / 0 9 / 0 0 ) , a n d Kennedy Lynnea Brooks (DOB: 10/19/99), whose parents are Robinett Pittman Brooks and Keith Lamont Brooks, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 16.1-241(A3). It is ORDERED that the defendant Keith Lamont Brooks appear at the abovenamed Court and protect his interests on or before July 11, 2016 at 9:00 A.M.

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER EDWARD MARROW, SR., Plaintiff v. KHRISTY MARROW, Defendant. Case No.: CL16000988-00 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 27th day of May, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt IN the COunty of Chesterfield Commonwealth of Virginia, in re LYNIAH MARIE DABNEY CRYSTAL DABNEY v. CIARA DABNEY and LYNWOOD WYNN Case No. JJ087614-01-00, -02-00 OrDEr Of puBLicatiON The object of this suit is to: Determine custody and visitation of Lyniah Marie Dabney (DOB: 1/25/12), whose mother is Ciara Dabney and whose putative father is Lynwood Earl Wynn, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 16.1-241(A3). It is ORDERED that the defendant Ciara Dabney appear at the above-named Court and protect her interests on or before June 3, 2016 at 9:00 A.M.

DORIS E. CROSTIC, who may be deceased, and the heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest of DORIS E. CROSTIC, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before June 24, 2016, 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

Ordinance No. 2016-145 To amend City Code §§ 26-366, concerning the real estate tax exemption for qualified veterans, 26-367, concerning the real estate tax exemption for surviving spouses of members of the Armed Forces killed in action, and 26-518, concerning the tax exemption for certified pollution control equipment, for the purpose of reflecting amendments to Va. Code §§ 58.1-3219.5 and 58.1-3219.9, and to art. 5, ch. 36 of Title 58.1 of the Va. Code. . (Committee: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, May 19, 2016, 3:00 p.m., Council Chamber) 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 CHESTERFIELD Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Walter Rogers v Cathyrony Wright Case No. 041CL6000595-00 Order of Publication The object of this suit is to: Obtain a divorce a vincullo matrimonii or from the bonds of matrimony. It appearing from an affidavit that the defendant is: that diligence has been used without effect, by or on the behalf of the plaintiff to ascertain in what country or city defendant is It is ORDERED that Cathyrony Wright appear at the above-named court and protect her interest on or before May 24, 2016 at 8:30 a.m. An Extract Teste: WENDY S. HUGHES, Clerk VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER JERNIER COX, Plaintiff v. RASHEEN COX, Defendant. Case No.: CL16001030-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 22nd day of June, 2016 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 MONICA BROWN, Plaintiff v. MARK BROWN, Defendant. Case No.: CL15000497-00 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 15th day of June, 2016 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 LYLE BRADBY, Plaintiff v. ANNA BRADBY, Defendant. Case No.: CL16001220-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 10th day of June, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER EVELYN CANALES, Plaintiff v. EDGAR LEMUS, Defendant. Case No.: CL16000884-00 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 27th day of May, 2016 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 BERTA HERRERA, Plaintiff v. ANGEL COBARRUVIAS, Defendant. Case No.: CL15002074-00 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 27th day of May, 2016 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 ANGELA MULLINGS, Plaintiff v. LARRY WILSON, Defendant. Case No.: CL15-2232 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 27th day of May, 2016 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 SHARON BOBB, Plaintiff v. JUNIE BOBB, Defendant. Case No.: CL16001274-00 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.

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER ANGELA LEWIS, Plaintiff v. OKEMA LEWIS, Defendant. Case No.: CL16001068-00 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

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VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER EARL BREWSTER, Plaintiff v. CATHY BREWSTER, Defendant. Case No.: CL16001138-00 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 27th day of May, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

CUSTODY virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt Of the City of Richmond Commonwealth of Virginia, in re AIDEN KNIGHT, Juvenile Case No. JJ091018-06, JJ091018-07 OrDEr Of puBLicatiON The object of this suit is to: Terminate the residual parental rights (“RPR”) of Amy Dean, (Mother), Unknown, (Father), of Aiden Knight, child, DOB 11/28/2014, “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 Unknown (Father), Amy Dean (Mother), appear at the above-named Court and protect his/her interests on or before 7/11/16, at 9:20 AM, Court Room #1. An Extract, Teste: EDWARD F. JEWETT,Clerk virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt IN the COunty of Chesterfield Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Dixie Marie Alley JACE & COURTNEY GOODNIGHT v. WESLEY ALLEY, JR. & TIFFany kelley Case No. JJ055211-15-00, -16-00, -17-00,-18-00 OrDEr Of puBLicatiON The object of this suit is to: Determine custody and visitation of Dixie Marie Alley (DOB: 9/28/02), whose parents are Wesley Franklin Alley, Jr. and Tiffany Lee Kelley (last known address 621 Westover Hills Blvd. Apt. B, Richmond, Va.), pursuant to Virginia Code Section 16.1-241(A3). It is ORDERED that the defendant Tiffany Lee Kelley appear at the above-named Court and protect her interests on or before June 22, 2016 at 12:00 P.M. virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt IN the COunty of Chesterfield Commonwealth of Virginia, in re KRISTOPHER L. & KENNEDY L. BROOKS ANGELIQUE PITTMAN SKIPPER v. ROBINETT BROOKS & KEITH BROOKS Case No. JJ048485-03-00, -04-00; JJ048482-03-00, -04-00 OrDEr Of puBLicatiON The object of this suit Continued on next column

PROPERTY VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v. Case No. : CL16-1810-4 DORIS E. CROSTIC, Who May Be Deceased, and THE HEIRS, DEVISEES, ASSIGNEES OR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF DORIS E. CROSTIC, et al., Defendants. ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as “2207 Edwards Avenue”, Richmond, Virginia, Ta x M a p / G P I N # S 0 0 0 0460/008, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Doris E. Crostic. An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, DORIS E. CROSTIC, who may be deceased, and the heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in interest of DORIS E. CROSTIC, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.” IT IS ORDERED that

BID COUNTY OF HENRICO, VIRGINIA CONSTRUCTION ITB # 16-1192-5CE Pinehurst Gardens Area (SH-02C, Part 2) Sewer Rehabilitation This project consists of providing and/or rehabilitating 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch diameter gravity sewer pipe and associated manholes, replacing sewer service connections and relocating water service connections. Due 3:00 pm, June 8, 2016. Additional information available at: http://henrico. us/purchasing/.

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Local Sales Manager WUPV, in Richmond, VA., has a fantastic opportunity for an experienced LSM or senior account executive ready to move up to our open LSM position in the 56th market. Strong background in Local Core/Digital sales and agency negotiation preferred. A well-developed skillset to budget, grow and accurately forecast revenue a must. The WUPV sales culture is ideal for an independent and creative thinker. Dayto-day activities will include coaching and staff development, forecasting, agency negotiation and training. Successful candidate will have a hand in crafting the plan to take your team and this station across the finish line. If you possess creative leadership skills, the ability to develop new business, relationship-building skills and a successful track record in television and/ or media sales, send your resume to dhayes@ cwrichmond.tv. Drug Screen and MVR check required. EOE-M/F/D/V.

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Customer serviCe speCialist If you enjoy interacting with people, providing outstanding customer service and looking for a rewarding career, VHDA may be the right place for you! VHDA is seeking a full time Customer Service Specialist for its loan servicing division. The successful candidate must have several years of experience in mortgage servicing utilizing the Black Knight/LPS (Fidelity) servicing system. Essential competencies include strong analytical, oral and written communication skills. The associate must be comfortable in a fast-paced environment handling mortgage servicing calls ranging from general loan information, explanations regarding escrow analysis, and loan payoff requests. Bilingual fluency in Spanish and English preferred but not required. If you feel you meet the qualifications, submit resume with cover letter stating salary requirements online only at: http://www.vhda.com/about/careers an eoe This position closes at midnight on Friday, May 20, 2016. Background and credit checks will be performed as a condition of employment. Hiring range: $33,987 – 44,181

Escrow AnAlyst Virginia Housing Development Authority is seeking an Escrow Analyst to oversee escrowed loans for its single family mortgage portfolio. The incumbent will perform analyses of escrow accounts for VHDA’s portfolio, adjust payment constants as necessary, and research payment histories with large payment increases or decreases. Responsibilities are to review, analyze and interpret escrow expenses in accordance with RESPA guidelines, payment processing of customers’ escrow expenses, exception resolution, and processing and depositing refunds. A component of this position is working with tax vendor to ensure disbursement of taxes. This position will report to the Escrow Administration Supervisor. Requirements include an Associate’s degree or equivalent work experience, several years of direct mortgage servicing experience with specific focus in the areas of insurance, escrow and taxes and experience with Black Knight servicing system. The successful candidate must have a demonstrated willingness to adapt to consistent changes in the mortgage servicing industry and the ability to effectively multi-task to meet deadlines. The ideal candidate is a capable problem solver with an analytical mindset that has the ability to work independently, successfully prioritize multiple functions and meet deadlines. Excellent organizational, communications and customer service skills with attention to detail required. We offer a competitive salary with a generous benefits package. Submit resume with cover letter stating salary requirements online only at: http://www.vhda.com/about/careers An EoE This position closes at midnight on Friday, May 20, 2016. Background and credit checks will be performed as a condition of employment. Hiring range: $33,987 – 44,181