Urban Views Weekly April 1, 2015

Apr. 1, 2015

Scholar of the Week – Chynna Stewart

The Easter Story is the promise of

Resurrection

NEW LOCATION

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April 9, 2015 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m.

Stratford University Richmond Campus 11104 W. Broad St., Glen Allen, VA 23060

The Deal

Crowdfunding and Taxes: What You Should Know Crowdfunding – the online method of raising money from people around the world – is less than a decade old, allowing artists, activists and a growing number of entrepreneurs to connect with financial support far outside the conventional lending system.

Here’s how crowdfunding works. Through sites like Kickstarter, Indiegogo or RocketHub, campaigners seeking funding create a pitch that educates potential funders – or “backers,” as they’re often called – on their project.

Campaigns share their funding goal and the various rewards backers will receive for taking part; backers respond with pledges made via credit card. If the campaign meets its goal and deadline, the crowdfunding site activates all the card-based pledges and the campaign is funded.

While estimates vary widely, research organization Massolution (http://www. crowdsourcing.org/editorial/2013cf-thecrowdfunding-industry-report/25107) put 2013 crowdfunding revenue at $5.1 billion globally. Many crowdfunding efforts today are

Sponsored by: A.W. Smith Financial Small Business Solutions www.AWSmithFinancial.com

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Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

Implementing the crowdfunding provisions of the 2012’s Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act (https://www.sec.gov/spotlight/ jobs-act.shtml), the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission is putting final touches on regulations allowing ordinary investors to participate in equity crowdfunding for the first time. This would mean that business owners could raise money via the web in exchange for a piece of ownership in their company.

Because the process of crowdfunding is relatively easy compared to other means of obtaining capital, some might neglect to research potentially unfavorable tax, financial, or legal implications from their campaign.

Potential crowdfunding campaigners might want to make a preliminary call to a qualified tax adviser, financial planner, or an attorney before launching any online fundraising effort. Individuals, companies, and nonprofits have different tax continues on page 4 issues and financial

The March 25, 2015 Scholar of the Week, Austyn Brown, was reported to be a student at John Marshall when indeed she is a student at Richmond Community High School.

Letter To The Editor

If you would like to respond to Viewpoints, your submission should contain your name, a full valid address and a daytime phone number. We cannot acknowledge submitted letters. We reserve the right to edit for accuracy, clarity, legality and taste.

E-mail (without attachments) to editor@urbanviewsweekly. com. Mail letters to Editor Urban Views Weekly.

Ervin B. Clarke, Publisher publisher@urbanviewsweekly.com

easily accessible from I-64, I-295 and Rt. 288.

Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce Email: Info@CVAACC.org • Phone: 804-823-7745

artistic or cause-based, but that is expected to change in the near future.

Correction

Stratford University’s Richmond Campus is

Free Admission for CVAACC members • Non-members $20.00 Please RSVP via the www.CVAACC.org Event Calendar

By Jason Alderman

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Scholar of the Week

Chynna Stewart of

John Marshall High School

GPA: 3.9 College of Interest: Old Dominion University Major Community Service: Leaders Club at the YMCA, National Honor Society Strong Interests: Nursing and English Favorite Activities: Cheerleading, volunteering at Leaders Club

By Janeal Downs

While some may be discouraged about constantly being in and out of hospitals, Chynna Stewart was encouraged to become a part. Even as a child, Chynna dreamed of offering a helping hand in the life of another person. Her passion for nursing started when she was only 7 or 8, and being raised in a home by her great grandmother and grandmother was a big influence. When their health declined and she saw the nurses, nursing assistants and home health care aides in action, her desire grew. As a child, her great grandmother suffered from a stroke which resulted in a nurse coming to the house every day to take care of her. After getting used to the schedule, she would often help the nurse and learned what to do if the nurse was not there. of the “The amount of care, concern and genuine care that the caregivers provided peaked my interest in the nursing field,” Chynna stated in an essay.

With the National Honor Society, she is able to volunteer, but one of her favorite activities is participating in a leadership program at the Northside YMCA called Leaders Club. With Leaders Club, she is able to be herself with friends and do a lot of fitness activities. She is the vice president of Leaders Club and manages the club meeting agenda, executive meetings, and fundraiser tracking.

“Leaders Club teaches you to believe in yourself and have enthusiasm in everything you do,” Chynna said. “We work on team building but also how to get out of your shell and express yourself in a positive manner.”

At the program Chynna and others work on spirit, mind and body; learn to be a dependable ™ Week hard worker; and learn how to be dedicated to all tasks they choose to complete.

Scholar0

As a senior at John Marshall High School, she currently has a 3.9 GPA. In order to pursue her dreams, she plans to go to college and get a degree in nursing. Her top college of choice is Old Dominion University in Norfolk. To prepare for college, she participates in extracurricular activities such as cheerleading and the National Honor Society.

These programs taught her how to balance extracurricular activities with her school work. “They taught me how to keep my grades up, knowing that if my grades weren’t up that I wouldn’t still be in them.”

Chynna describes herself as having an open personality and being very friendly. Her mother’s dedication and hard work is one motivating force in her life. As the youngest grandchild, she was often surrounded by many other family members who cared for her, took care of everything she needed, made her feel safe, and kept her healthy. She hopes to one day be able to care for others in the same way. “I want to become a nurse because I would love to have the same effect on another person,” Chynna said. “I want someone to know as long as they are in my care they will remain safe and healthy.

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Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

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ViewPoints

Resurrection…really?

By Dr. T

Resurrection is an American something or becoming fantasy drama series on something. Hmmmm, a network television about do-over with a clean slate? dead people who return to Who would not want the life. This weekend the high opportunity to rewrite a holy day of Christendom particular chapter in history is being celebrated in the or re-live a particular moment honoring of the crucifixion, or event of your own personal burial, resurrection and story or relationship with a ascension of Jesus Christ. specific person at a precise Religious scholars may time? What’s that old idiom argue as to whether the Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D. say? Hindsight is 20/20. If Founder and Artistic Director birth of Jesus or his death we had known then what we The Conciliation Project and and resurrection is the Associate Professor know now, we would have more important holiday, but Virginia Commonwealth University done something different. practicing Christians hold DrT@Margins2theCenter.com And, if we had done www.theconciliationproject.org both as the cornerstones of something different, we their religious beliefs and probably wouldn’t be facing practice. Coinciding with what we are facing today.

Easter, a more secular articulation of the “religious” festival that uses a large bunny Each year when we arrive at this moment rabbit and candy-filled colorful baskets with where many of us celebrate the resurrection decorated eggs as a type of counter-cultural of Jesus Christ, or for my Jewish sisters and response to the religious ceremony many brothers the Passover, where God passed call Resurrection Sunday, is the Jewish High over Jewish households and exempted them Holiday called Passover. from the curse spoken by Pharaoh that sentenced all of Egypt’s first-born to death, The confluence of culture, religious we should take this time to reflect on how practice, and community-oriented activities, we might use the spirit of the event as more such as parades and Easter egg rolls on than just a holiday gathering, remembrance, the White House lawn, richly reflect the or celebration but more as an opportunity to deep multilayered pluralistic ethos that is DO something in our lives or with our lives the American landscape. It works for all that replicates the spirit of resurrection and/or involved. And, for those who have no desire second chances. Can we make amends with a or inclination to participate or whose own family member or friend, or reconnect with a religious or cultural practice run counter dream or a vision, a disenfranchised employer to any of the above listed, it is just another or employee? Is it possible to spare someone weekend. Right? Perhaps, it is. It could be or exempt them from consequences that they emblematic of how we can believe what should receive? If we embrace the “spirit” of we believe and allow others to do the same the holiday we celebrate and live its principles, without having to consume, oppress, or instead of just dressing up for the day in conquer them. We can, in fact, co-exist our fine clothes and bonnets or gathering without denigrating or marginalizing those for a meal, then we may cause something who do not believe or practice what we do. to happen that’s truly transformational with A dictionary definition explains resurrection eternal consequences for all involved. Is the as a means to bring back to life that which Resurrection really real, or just an American has been previously dead; the act of making fantasy television drama? something exist again or starting to use something again after it has disappeared, been Up Next Week: Don’t pat yourself on the back…. forgotten, or stopped being used. Inherent in the definition is an opportunity to begin again, or to have another chance at doing 4

Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

precedents that could blunt the effectiveness of any fundraising campaign.

From The Deal: page 2

Depending on the fundraising goal and how that money will be handled in the aftermath of the campaign, experts say some situations may call for a particular legal entity to be formed in advance. If appropriate, participants could seek guidance to form an actual business (https://www.sba.gov/writingbusiness-plan) or nonprofit (https://www. councilofnonprofits.org/tools-resources/ business-planning-nonprofits) entity.

Discussing structural issues in advance will not only help with tax issues, but also lead to better strategies for fundraising and longterm mission.

Beneficiaries should also consider any potential tax issues they could face as recipients of money from crowdfunding campaigns. Depending on individual circumstances, crowdfunding a person’s unpaid medical bills may have significantly different tax ramifications than crowdfunding one’s independent film project.

It is not enough to consider the tax issues for

the campaign and campaigners. Beneficiaries require their own due diligence to make sure crowdfunding provides the most efficient solution for their needs.

Finally, backers should consider whether they have any tax questions about their support.

To date, most crowdfunding supporters give such small amounts tax issues don’t really surface. That may change in the future as crowdfunding moves into the commercial arena. No matter what the circumstance, any potential crowdfunding backer who works with a qualified tax, financial, or legal professional should consider asking if there are more efficient ways to offer support.

Bottom line: If you are interested in crowdfunding either as a campaigner, a beneficiary or a backer, research a potential project thoroughly and consider getting individualized tax, financial, or legal advice before you proceed.

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ PracticalMoney.

Save the Date: Thursday, April 16, 2015

Kindergarten Registration

TanyaFree.com/ Urban Views Weekly Poll Safety is always a concern of everyone who flies, or contemplates it. Documents show that a Germanwings co-pilot is believed to have locked the pilot out of the cockpit, deliberately setting the plane on a lethal descent into the French Alps last week. Some international airlines responded to the crash by introducing new rules requiring that two crew members always be present in the cockpit.

What’s Your Take? Has this incident affected your willingness to fly?

Check out the story and respond to this week’s poll at TanyaFree.com and the Urban Views Weekly FACEBOOK Page.

Listen to the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show Wednesdays @ 2pm on WCLM1450AM streaming LIVE @ TanyaFree.com and BlackTalkRadioNetwork.com.

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“GEAR UP”

College Preparation Program to Launch at Peabody Middle School On Tuesday, March 31, 2015, Peabody Middle School, in Petersburg, VA, will kick off its “GEAR UP” College Preparation program. As part of the program, nearly 300 seventh graders at Peabody Middle School (PMS) will receive additional help preparing for post-secondary education thanks to a $22 million federal grant that will be split among 16 Virginia school divisions.

Under the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP), PMS students in this year’s seventh grade class (the class of 2020) will have the opportunity to participate in the program now through their first year of college or postsecondary study.

GEAR UP will offer students the chance to participate in summer bridge

programs, free college tours, academic workshops, tutoring, leadership development classes, career development activities, mentoring, financial aid workshops, and college preparation summer academies.

To kick off the program, PMS will host a “Welcome to GEAR UP” event at 6 p.m. on Tuesday March 31, 2015 at PMS, 725 Wesley Street, Petersburg, VA. During the event, students and their families will be introduced to the Gear Up program and learn about upcoming events.

Students, parents and family members are encouraged to attend to learn more about GEAR UP and college planning.

The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) will administer the grant over the next seven years.

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Intersection Improvements at Patterson Avenue and Parham Road Henrico County Public Information Meeting Tuesday, April 7, 2015, 5 – 7 p.m.

Tuckahoe Library 1901 Starling Drive Henrico, VA 23229 Come see and hear about plans to improve the intersection of Patterson Avenue (Route 6) and Parham Road in Henrico County. This improvement will increase the capacity and safety of the intersection and reduce traffic congestion, particularly during peak travel hours.

The meeting will be held in an open house format from 5 - 7 p.m. where individuals can talk one-on-one with project staff. This flexible format allows participants to arrive whenever their schedule will allow.

Give your written comments at the meeting or submit them by April 17, 2015 to Jason Zhang, P.E., project manager, Virginia Department of Transportation, 2430 Pine Forest Drive, Colonial Heights, VA 238349002, 804-524-6153, 800-367-7623 or TDD/TTY 711. You may also email your comments to Jason.Zhang@vdot.virginia.gov. Please reference “Intersection improvements in Henrico comments” in the subject line.

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. * In the event of inclement weather on April 7, this meeting will be held April 15 at the same time at Gayton Library (10600 Gayton Road, Henrico, VA 23238).

State Project: 0006-043-760, P101, R201, C501 Federal Project: STP-5A27 (090)

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The Easter Story As Told in Message Bible (MSG)

Mark 14:22-25 In the course of their meal, having taken and blessed the bread, he broke it and gave it to them. Then he said, Take, this is my body.

Taking the chalice, he gave it to them, thanking God, and they all drank from it. He said, This is my blood, God’s new covenant, Poured out for many people. “I’ll not be drinking wine again until the new day when I drink it in the kingdom of God.”

met and put the finishing touches on their plot to kill Jesus. Then they tied him up and paraded him to Pilate, the governor. He objected, “But for what crime?”

But they yelled all the louder, “Nail him to a cross!”

When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere and that a riot was imminent, he took a basin of water and washed his hands in full sight of the crowd, saying, “I’m washing my hands of responsibility for this man’s death. From now on, it’s in your hands.

You’re judge and jury.”

The crowd answered, “We’ll take the blame, we and our children after us.”

Then he pardoned Barabbas.

But he had Jesus whipped, and then handed over for crucifixion.

The Betrayal

Jesus Led Away, Mocked

The Last Supper Mark 14:16-18 The disciples left, came to the city, found everything just as he had told them, and prepared the Passover meal. After sunset he came with the Twelve. As they were at the supper table eating, Jesus said, “I have something hard but important to say to you: One of you is going to hand me over to the conspirators, one who at this moment is eating with me.”

Matthew 26:47-49 The words were barely out of his mouth when Judas (the one from the Twelve) showed up, and with him a gang from the high priests and religious leaders brandishing swords and clubs. The betrayer had worked out a sign with them: “The one I kiss, that’s the one—seize him.” He went straight to Jesus, greeted him, “How are you, Rabbi?” and kissed him.

Matthew 27:1-2, 23-26 In the first light of dawn, all the high priests and religious leaders 6

Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

Matthew 27:27-31 The soldiers assigned to the governor took Jesus into the governor’s palace and got the entire brigade together for some fun. They stripped him and dressed him in a red toga. They plaited a crown from branches of a thornbush and set it on his head. They put a stick in his right hand for a scepter. Then they knelt before him in mocking reverence: “Bravo, King of the Jews!” they said. “Bravo!”

Then they spit on him and hit him on the head with the stick. When they had had their fun, they took off the toga and put his own clothes back on him. Then they proceeded out to the crucifixion.

Luke 23: 26-31 As they led him off, they made Simon, a man from Cyrene who happened to be coming in from the countryside, carry the cross behind Jesus. A huge crowd of people followed, along with women weeping and carrying on. At one point Jesus turned to the women and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, don’t cry for me. Cry for yourselves and for your children. The time is coming when they’ll say, ‘Lucky the women who never conceived! Lucky the wombs that never gave birth! Lucky the breasts that never gave milk!’ Then they’ll start calling to the mountains, ‘Fall down on us!’ calling to the hills, ‘Cover us up!’ If people do these things to a live, green tree, can you imagine what they’ll do with deadwood?”

He is Risen

middle. Jesus called loudly, “Father, I place my life in your hands!” Then he breathed his last.

When the captain there saw what happened, he honored God: “This man was innocent! A good man, and innocent!”

Jesus is Risen

The Crucifixion Luke 23:33-35 When they got to the place called Skull Hill, they crucified him, along with the criminals, one on his right, the other on his left.

Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them; they don’t know what they’re doing.”

Dividing up his clothes, they threw dice for them. The people stood there staring at Jesus, and the ringleaders made faces, taunting, “He saved others. Let’s see him save himself! The Messiah of God—ha! The Chosen—ha!”

Luke 23:44-47 By now it was noon. The whole earth became dark, the darkness lasting three hours—a total blackout. The Temple curtain split right down the

Mark 16:1-7 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so they could embalm him. Very early on Sunday morning, as the sun rose, they went to the tomb. They worried out loud to each other, “Who will roll back the stone from the tomb for us?”

Then they looked up, saw that it had been rolled back—it was a huge stone—and walked right in. They saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed all in white. They were completely taken aback, astonished.

He said, “Don’t be afraid. I know you’re looking for Jesus the Nazarene, the One they nailed on the cross. He’s been raised up; he’s here no longer. You can see for yourselves that the place is empty.

Now—on your way. Tell his disciples and Peter that he is going on ahead of you to Galilee. You’ll see him there, exactly as he said.”

Received up into Heaven Mark 16:19-20 Then the Master Jesus, after briefing them, was taken up to heaven, and he sat down beside God in the place of honor. And the disciples went everywhere preaching, the Master working right with them, validating the Message with indisputable evidence.

Luke 24:51-53 He then led them out of the city over to Bethany.

Raising his hands he blessed them, and while blessing them, took his leave, being carried up to heaven.

And they were on their knees, worshiping him. They returned to Jerusalem bursting with joy. They spent all their time in the Temple praising God. Yes.

Why Christians Celebrate John 3:16-18 “This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again.

Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-ofa-kind Son of God when introduced to him.

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Civic Beat FUNdraising Good Times

From challenge to success Part two of two part series Challenging finances and what feels like an onslaught of “bad press” can be part of the nonprofit experience. Addressing these is what leadership is all about. Keep an eye to the future, talk with your donors and stakeholders, and find a game-changing way to engage the community. This is the story of Regional One Health and its foundation.

of spectacular. How did it get started? By a board member! “The gala started when then board member, Leigh Shockey, asked her friend, legendary producer David Guest to bring a soul review that he was doing in London to Memphis and allow the money raised to go to the then MED. He agreed and she recruited board member Susan Arney to assist her with this. The first gala had 14 artists and was put together in eight weeks!” Ritchey explains.

Tammie Ritchey, Vice President of Development and Executive Director “We used the gala specifically as a way of Regional One Health Foundation to challenge and change the business in Memphis community’s Tennessee knows and donor “Keep an eye to the what it’s like community’s to weather the public perception future, talk with your storm. First, of us. It’s very donors and stakeholders, important that executive leaders took time to and find a game-changing our gala guests personally have a one-of-away to engage the share strategic kind, first class directions and experience – just community.” vision with major like what we donors, keeping strive for with them in the loop. The foundation board our patients and their families when they played a major role too, and continues to use our services. The first year we held the do so. gala people said they were happy to support us, but they were unsure about what the Ritchey proudly promotes the foundation experience would be like – so in a way it board, “I sincerely believe we have one of was a bit of a test.” the strongest board of directors around.

They are all quite brilliant in their own lives The foundation clearly passed the test, as outside of the board and very successful the event is an annual sell out with people men and women. They are dedicated to who literally buy their tables a year ahead Regional One Health, they believe in the of time. vision, and they all work passionately on You can learn more about Regional our behalf. They challenge me every day One Health Foundation at www. to go harder, to push further, to give more regionalonehealthfoundation.org or by to the patients and families we serve. And calling (901) 545-8373. we have several members who held on with us during some very challenging times. It Copyright 2015– Mel and Pearl Shaw was very difficult to be on a fundraising board and not be able to raise a lot of funds Mel and Pearl Shaw position nonprofits, because of the public’s perception of the colleges and universities for fundraising hospital at that time.” success. For help with your fundraising visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522But that has changed. The foundation now 8727. hosts a sell-out gala that is nothing short 8

Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

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Martin’s Donates $1.6 Million

In 2014 To Central Virginia Community MARTIN’S Food Markets today announced its charitable donations made in 2014 totaled $1.6 million in combined cash and product contributions from customers, vendors, and associates. MARTIN’S is committed to supporting organizations that help eradicate hunger and improve the quality of life for children throughout the communities it serves, and companywide donated $27 million in 2014.

“These are extraordinary results that reflect the deep heritage and commitment our associates have to helping our neighbors,” said Tom Lenkevich, MARTIN’S president. “Thank you to our associates, customers, and vendors who joined with us in 2014 to support hunger relief efforts while doing all we can to help the youngest residents of our communities – our kids.”

Fighting Hunger As a food retailer, MARTIN’S recognizes the important role it can play in hunger relief efforts, and in 2014 donations to FeedMore and local pantries collectively received a total of $872,727. With MARTIN’S “Meat the Needs” program, the grocer freezes meat that would otherwise go unsold, but is still safe to consume, and donates it to regional food bank partners. FeedMore received 316,137 pounds of frozen meat from MARTIN’S in 2014.

Customers gave generously during the Share a Holiday Meal, donating $100,177 to support Richmond and Williamsburg area families in need.

Helping Kids In 2014, MARTIN’S customers, associates, and vendors also came together to help donate

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hope and create miracles for children throughout its operating area by funding state-ofthe-art medical care, life-saving research, and preventative education at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. A total of $171,186 was raised in 2014. Since 1996, MARTIN’S has donated more than $37 million to local Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) hospitals, making them one of the top 10 fundraisers in the country for CMN. MARTIN’S ranks #2 in per-store fundraising for CMN in the country.

MARTIN’S is also committed to helping kids in education with its A+ School Rewards program. More than 300 Central Virginia area public and private schools received $106,067 during the 2013-14 school year to fund scholarship programs, technology equipment, and other educational needs. Since A+ School Rewards launched in 2005, more than $19 million has been donated to local schools.

Supporting Communities In addition to its efforts to fight hunger and help kids, MARTIN’S customers and associates also showed their support for local men and women serving in the Armed Forces by generously donating more than $26,910 through the annual Support Our Troops campaign which benefits USO of Hampton Roads and Central Virginia and the Wounded Warrior Project.

MARTIN’S also provided more than $325,000 in contributions to local community groups and various nonprofit organizations throughout its market area, impacting tens of thousands of individuals and families.

Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

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Congratulations Richmond Public Schools

Richmond City Schools adopts 100% tobacco-free policy The Richmond City Health District congratulates Richmond Public Schools on their designation as a Tobacco-Free School Zone. The Richmond City School system is acknowledged by the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth for adopting a 100% tobacco-free policy that restricts smoking and the use of any tobacco or smoking products by anyone on school property, school grounds, and at school-sponsored events.

“School faculty and staff are role models for students, and this policy presents a positive example for students, as well as providing protection to our youth and others from unhealthy second-hand smoke,” said Dr. Dana T. Bedden, Richmond Public Schools Superintendent.

The Richmond City Health District congratulates Richmond Public Schools for adopting a 100% tobacco free policy that restricts smoking and use of any tobacco products on school property, school grounds, and at school-sponsored events.

Richmond City Health District is proud to partner with Richmond Public Schools to provide supporting classroom education that helps students learn about the dangers of tobacco use and helps them make good decisions to resist the temptation to start using tobacco.

Each day, more than 3,200 people under the age of 18 smoke their first cigarette, and approximately 2,100 youth and young-adults become daily smokers.

For more information, visit: www.rchd.com or www.vfhy.org Parents and members of the public are encouraged to support our schools in the effort to protect the health of our youth and make our community healthier.

Richmond City Health District

Working together for a healthier Richmond 10

Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

“Richmond City Health District is proud to partner with Richmond Public Schools to provide supporting classroom education that helps students learn about the dangers of tobacco use and hopefully will equip them to make good decisions and resist temptation to start smoking or using tobacco,” said Dr. Danny Avula, Richmond City Health District Deputy Director.

Each day, more than 3,200 people under age 18 smoke their first cigarette, and approximately 2,100 youth and young adults become daily smokers. In the general population, an estimated 88 million nonsmoking Americans, including 54% of children aged 3 to 11 years, are exposed to second-hand smoke. In addition to other harmful effects, second-hand smoke can trigger asthma attacks or aggravate other breathing problems. More than 11% of high school students in the United States have asthma, and studies suggest that youth who smoke are more likely to develop asthma.

Richmond Public Schools Tobacco-Free Policy is an important intervention. Comprehensive tobacco-free policies will reduce exposure to harmful effects of tobacco and prevent youth from starting use of tobacco. Parents and members of the public are encouraged to support our schools in this effort to protect the health of our youth and make our community healthier. For more information, visit www.vfhy.org/tobacco.

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How to Choose a Bridal Shop

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Every bride wants the perfect wedding and the perfect wedding dress. The church needs to be beautiful, the flowers to be vivid, and the music to be perfect.

Women in particular are prone to perfectionism when it comes to getting married. Wedding dresses have been mythologized in books, movies, and reality TV shows.

Choosing a bridal shop that fits your needs can save you valuable time, freeing you up to plan other wedding details.

When you choose the best bridal shop for your needs, you have a good chance of finding your wedding dress.

price points. Others prefer to work with a more exclusive clientele.

But you don’t have to wear white. The new trend lends towards brighter colors and simpler styles.

You can choose an entirely different color that will give your wedding personal flair.

Dress Styles Before setting foot in a store, look through bridal magazines, research on the Internet, and attend bridal shows to understand current styles and colors. Find the most attractive styles for your taste. Will the style fit your body shape? Will it emphasize the right features and mask the ones you want to downplay?

After you have discovered a few styles you like, research bridal shops that have those styles.

Some stores might even tutor you on which styles will be flattering on you. Some shops have ready-to-wear dresses that can be altered, while others make custom dresses. This option is more personalized, but also more costly.

Color and Size Wedding dresses are traditionally white, but you can choose different shades of white - like platinum. All whites are not the same, so look for a tone that gives you a natural glow. www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

As you compare bridal shops, check that each store offers a selection of dresses in your size.

Curvy women should have many styles available.

How much room does the bridal dress have?

Remember that you must be comfortable in your dress. Weddings and receptions require sitting, standing, and even dancing.

You don’t want to get a dress, no matter how beautiful, that you can’t move comfortably in. A good retailer will encourage you to consider how the dress might feel in, and even suggest walking and sitting to see how the dress feels and looks.

Budget Costs can vary according to the shop, the design of the dress, and the size. Some bridal boutiques will be able to accommodate a wide range of

Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM

Carefully plan out your budget and do your best to stay within the limits. Many shops will work with you to help you find something you will love that won’t break your finances.

Alterations It is rare to find a bridal dress that fits perfectly from the moment you take it off the rack. Most dresses will need to be altered. You will likely purchase your dress well in advance of the wedding date. Your body may change in the ensuing months.

You might have to make multiple trips to the tailor in the days leading up to the wedding.

Choose a bridal shop that makes alterations convenient.

Most importantly, don’t forget to budget for this service.

Convenience Start by searching for stores in your ommunity.

Researching local bridal shops on the Internet will give you a good source of information not only on the stores available in your area, but also what type of service and merchandise they have.

Keep tabs on your local newspapers. Mny bridal shops run ads and coupons and you could save a lot of money on your dress. Some local newspapers have special sections for brides which include the area bridal shops.

Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

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Everything you need to make healthy choices.

Our in-store Nutritionists are ready to help you make healthy choices while you shop.

Schedule a private consultation to discuss your nutritional needs.

SERVICES INCLUDE Individual Consultations In-store Classes and Demos Community Events Grocery Store Tours

Caroline Roessler, MS, RDN

200 Charter Colony Parkway, Midlothian, VA 804-794-7074

Valerie Pulley, RDN

2250 John Rolfe Pkwy., Richmond, VA 804-364-3644

Visit our Live Well section of MartinsFoods.com and find Caroline and Valerie under Our Nutritionists 12

Urban Views Weekly | April 1, 2015

www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com