Urban Views Weekly July 19, 2017

July 19, 2017

Scholar of the Week - Alana Towns

Mentor helps youth dream big!

Marcy Williams (above) mentor for the day at Highland Springs ACE Center - learning about passion, purpose and living their individual dreams.

Maggie L. Walker statue is unveiled on July 15, 2017 Hundreds brave the hot and humid weather for the celebration that was decades in the making.

Photos Ervin B. Clarke

Letter To The Editor

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Ervin B. Clarke, Publisher publisher@urbanviewsweekly.com

VOL. 10, ISSUE 29 Urban Views Weekly, LLC 6802 Paragon Place, Suite 410 Richmond, VA 23230 Office: (804) 441-6255 Fax: (888) 439-2534

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Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

Cover photo contributed by Marcy Williams

Flora C. Clarke, Administrative Assistant flora@urbanviewsweekly.com Shelia O. Spurlock-Shaw, Advertising shelia@urbanviewsweekly.com Nickkol Lewis, Art Director Visual Appeal, LLC | visualappealstudio.com

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Health News

sponsored by VCU Health J. Chevonte’ Alexander

Summer is Here! Pool & Beach Safety Summer is in full gear and that means family outings at the pool or vacations to the beach. What that also means is safety - for adults and children! When most of us are enjoying time at the pool or beach, injuries aren’t the first thing on our minds. Yet, drownings are a leading cause of death for young children ages 1 to 14 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and three children die every day as a result of drowning. Among preventable injuries, drowning is the leading cause of death for children 1 – 4 years old. Children 1 – 4 years old are more likely to drown in a pool. Children 5 years and older are more likely to drown in natural water, such as ponds, lakes and rivers. Parents play a key role in protecting the children they love from drowning. Here are some key prevention tips to help ensure your family has a fun, yet safe day at the pool or beach.

Learn life-saving skills.

Everyone should know the basics of swimming (floating, moving through the water) and CPR. Fence it off.

Install a fence around backyard swimming pools. This can help keep children away from the area when they aren’t supposed to be swimming. Pool fences should completely separate the house and play area from the pool.

Make life jackets a must.

Make sure kids wear life jackets in and around natural bodies of water, such as lakes or the ocean, even if they know how to swim. Life jackets can be used in and

There are so many reasons to manage your blood pressure.

Here’s just one.

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• Avoid drinking alcohol before and during swimming.

• Don’t swallow pool water.

• Don’t swim when you have diarrhea. Germs can spread in the water and make other people sick.

• Take a shower and wash your child before swimming.

• Take your kids on bathroom breaks every 60 minutes, or check diapers every 30-60 minutes.

• Change diapers in a bathroom or a diaper-changing area and not at poolside. Germs can spread in and around the pool. around pools for weaker swimmers too. Arm floaties are great, as well, for smaller children.

Be on the lookout.

When kids are in or near water, closely supervise them at all times. Because drowning happens quickly and quietly, adults watching kids in or near water should avoid distracting activities like something simple as talking on the phone.

Swimming is a fun, active, and healthy way to spend leisure time. Take a few minutes to keep health and safety in mind to help prevent illness and injury.

• Ask a buddy to join you when swimming so you don’t swim alone.

• Choose swimming sites that have lifeguards.

• Wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers before getting in the pool.

• Watch children in and around water at all times.

• Make sure to keep your ears as dry as possible to help prevent swimmer’s ear.

Corri Miller-Hobbs, Safe Kids Virginia program coordinator at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU comments, “Swimming should be fun, not frightening.

Helping parents understand the major misconceptions about drownings can help save a life.”

The four main misconceptions are: • I will hear my child if he/she gets in trouble in the water and starts to drown. continues to page 9

vcuhealth.org

Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

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ViewPoints

By Dr. T

The Power of Grace The dictionary defines Grace as politeness, generosity of spirit, polish, dignity, and a pleasing quality. All of these attributes are characteristics that we would like to see in our leaders. So, too, would we like to hold the people who lead us in the highest esteem, whether in our churches and civic organizations, our schools and universities or those who hold public office. We expect that those individuals who are in leadership should be examples of integrity and high moral character as representatives and ambassadors for the people they serve. To take personal responsibility and aspire to be the best person one can be while inspiring others to emulate that same standard should be part of any instruction manual for leadership. Alas, as we look towards the highest office in the land, the attributes of leadership as described above have fallen woefully short. No matter what your political leaning may be, or what religious or spiritual beliefs you hold, the definition of “Grace” remains the same. In whatever ways our leaders may fail or disappoint us by not fulfilling the promises made or expectations we have for them, the least they can do is to have a modicum of grace as they attempt to lead. Unfortunately, we are currently witnessing an increasingly unprecedented exhibition of behaviors from the nation’s highest office that are outright embarrassing, boorish and ill-mannered.

Elected officials in the United States of America are not CEOs of corporations or dictators. They are not authoritarian rulers of a subjugated and dependent nation. No. They are the leaders of a free democracy and by virtue of the leadership role they hold, they are intended to be subject to the People and to the Constitution of the United States of America as its protector and defender. Above all else, it is the Constitution that was designed and written to protect the People against tyranny and despotic leadership.

Grace is a powerful word. At times, we have had leaders in this nation who are the epitome of the word grace in their actions and in the way they lead their public life. These people are the complete embodiment of grace in the type of leadership they exhibit.

The power of grace enables those who possess it to lead with a servant heart and with humility of spirit that befits the office they hold. Such leaders recognize they are servants to the people who elected them. They circumspectly, with all seriousness and dignity carry forth their duties in leadership. We are now living in a completely different time. As each day, week and month progresses, our expectations are continually lowered and we can no longer look up to the leadership we are witnessing. This may be due to a myriad of situations and conditions known and still some are under investigation.

It is, however, the lack of grace within the administration of the Office of the Presidency that has caused the most Shock and Awe.

“No matter what ...the definition of “Grace”remains the same.”

The lack of grace, humility or acknowledgement that elected officials are supposed to be servantleaders, not monarchs has been increasingly The power of the office has been weakened, on display over the past few months. The if not permanently at least for a season due “unprecedented” behavior coming out of in part, to an inability to embrace the power formerly revered institutions and offices of of GRACE. It is my hope that one day we leadership have been entirely outside the can recover the dignity that has always been boundaries of common decency and decorum. associated with The conduct we the office and the have witnessed Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D. person(s) who lately has not only Founder and Artistic Director hold it. We cannot been disappointing, The Conciliation Project and Associate Professor allow it to be it has become diminished forever. frighteningly Virginia Commonwealth University alarming.

DrT@Margins2theCenter.com | www.theconciliationproject.org 4

Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

Black Chambers launch the largest Black Business Directory in the World

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Scholar of the Week

By Janeal Downs

Alana Towns became interested in the health field not only because she enjoyed science and math, but also from personal experience.

Before her grandmother passed away, Alana was responsible for helping care for her grandmother. From reminding her when it was time to take medication, cooking for her, helping her walk, and even helping her bathe, Alana got first-hand experience on what it was like to care for another person. When her grandmother came to stay with them when Alana was in the seventh grade, she stepped up to help her mother. “It helped me grow, mature and become the person I am today,” Alana said about the experience.

Alana Towns of Richmond Community High School

GPA: 4.1 College of Interest: James Madison University Major Community Service: Youth Philanthropy Project, Hands on Greater Richmond, Delta Gems, etc.

Strong Interests: Pharmacy and the health field Favorite Activities: Shop, watch movies on Netflix, spend time with friends and cheer.

This experience was one of the main reasons why Alana felt an attraction to the health field. At first, she wanted to go into nursing, but ultimately has decided to pursue pharmacy. She decided this after realizing just how much she enjoyed science. One experience that ™ ek reinforced this, was her time with the of the We Math Science Investigators Program at the University of Richmond. With this program, which she attended every summer since she was in the seventh grade, Alana took math and science courses to prepare for the upcoming school year. Now, after graduating high school, Alana is preparing to take even more advanced science and math classes as she prepares for a life in the pharmacy field. This fall, she will attend James Madison University to pursue her degree. “I just like the campus atmosphere,” Alana said about why she chose JMU over other universities. “I felt at home there, and I had a lot of networks and connections that I made there.”

by giving back to the community. One organization she worked with was the Youth Philanthropy Project. With this group, she volunteered at the Children’s Museum. Alana worked with the many eager and energetic children, convincing them to stay active. She also volunteered with Hands on Greater Richmond during Teen Impact Week. “I truly enjoy helping people; it is a part of my character,” Alana stated in an essay. “It brings a feeling of excitement to me when I see that someone has benefited from something that I have helped them with.”

In her spare time, Alana likes to shop, watch Netflix movies, spend time with friends and cheer. She was the Varsity co-captain of her cheerleading team and played softball. Some clubs she was involved in, include FBLA, Key Club, Mu Alpha Theta and Delta Gems.

While she stayed busy, Alana graduated with a 4.1 GPA. A lesson she will take from high school to college, is the importance of time management.

Scholar0

When she was still in high school, Alana liked to help people

One of Alana’s biggest inspirations is her mother.

“My mom inspires me because she pushes me, and she motivates me to do better and to go after what I want,” Alana said. “She always tells me that there’s no limit to what I want to do and I can do anything.” Now, as she is approaching college, Alana is even closer to helping other people’s lives as a pharmacist, like she and her mother did when taking care of her grandmother. Though it was a hard time for them all, Alana always wanted to make sure her grandmother was okay. “I want to thank her for trusting me to take care of her because that experience helped me decide what career path I want to go into in the future,” Alana stated. “I know that furthering my education will help open doors for myself and the people in my community.” If her grandmother were here, Alana knows she would be extremely proud.

$100 Scholarships Awarded Every Week

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Do you know a High School Senior who can meet the following criteria?

1. Have a 3.0 grade point average or better 2. Participates in extracurricular community service activities 3. Attends public school in Central Virginia Go to UrbanViewsWeekly.com for application and details.

Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

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Organization Inspires Richmond Youth T When it comes to mapping out a successful future, the when she entered into the college application process, fact remains that our youth can’t be what they can’t Williams dedicated her life to reaching back to Richmond’s see. They can’t believe the sky is the limit when they’re youth and not only guiding them through the process, constantly faced with seeming limitations based on but also addressing the root causes of issues they face background and past during adolescence. experiences, and they What she’s learned in can’t dream big unless her interactions with they’re reminded them both within that dreams really do the community and come true. What as Adjunct Professor our youth need now at VCU, is that many more than ever is the challenges they face reassurance that they today are unprecedented, have a future full of so they require leaders options and choices, who can meet them and most importantly, exactly where they the support needed to are and speak to their accomplish their goals. unique and specific

needs.

Too often, our young men and women “I know it sounds cliché, Marcy Williams (right) helping youth understand internalize this idea but technology is a big hashtags at Radio One's Teens are Talking Forum. that the only path challenge our youth faces to financial stability is that of an athlete or entertainer. today,” Williams explains. “I didn’t have that challenge Sure, if that’s their desired career path, it’s up to us to help growing up. Thanks to social media our youth are exposed provide resources to help them hone their craft, but to so much more than I was at their age, from sex to seeing those aren’t their only murders live and in options. There exist color, and even learning countless industries intricate details about and career paths, and the state of the world. It’s whether they choose to scary for a young mind go the education route to consume, and makes or immediately enter it difficult for them to into the workforce, a focus on the right things.” promising future is

within reach.

Williams is a fervent believer in protecting Marcy Williams, their minds at all Founder and CEO costs; the inundation of Kollege and of negativity quickly Kareer for Youth translates to a “why (KAKY), started the should I care?” mentality, organization ten years rendering many of them Social Media Safety Workshop to girls in the ago with the mission hopeless and pessimistic Rare Academy Mentoring Program of equipping young about their future. This is students with tools needed to begin mapping out their why an organization like KAKY is so crucial for all youth, future. Remembering the lack of resources available not just those in underserved communities. All youth have 6

Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

Vision board activity with cosmetology students at H

the entire world at their fingertips, internalizing everything from encouraging stories of kindness to harmful interactions that can confirm their belief that the world is indeed a dreary place.

Social media also makes it difficult for youth to define success for themselves. The problem lies not in the fact that they don’t know options exist, but that this social media-heavy culture provides limited views of what success truly is. We follow people who on the surface appear successful and happy, which in turn influences what we believe we need in order to obtain success and happiness. We’re not flooded with images of careers in STEM, community involvement, and lives of excellence; instead, we’re told that life is all about likes, followers, and being the source of others’ envy.

On the other end of the digital world is reality, which means mapping out a real plan for the future. For some, that future is college. For others, it’s the workforce. In both instances, KAKY’s focus is helping youth follow their passions and dreams, and helping them walk in their purpose. What Williams finds is that for a lot of young adults, college isn’t always the answer.

To Create Their Unique Path to Success

By Janna M. Hall

sum of their personal experiences and outside influences.

Their decisions will differ from their parents’ and they’re learning about themselves and the life they want all while navigating the pressures of this world. It’s up to the parents and community leaders to provide the support needed, and what you’ll find is that with that support, the children will succeed.

Highland Springs Advanced Career Education Center

“KAKY started out as a big push to get kids to go to college,” says Williams. “But in my experience as a professor at VCU, I’ve learned that college isn’t for everyone. Parents get upset when I say that, but my focus is helping them decide which future is best for them. Maybe it’s a trade school or entrepreneurship; maybe it’s a community college or a series of workshops that help them develop.

But I’ve learned that college just isn’t for everyone.”

While Williams sticks to her stance on higher education, she believes that half the battle is encouraging parents to commit to their child’s journey, even if that journey differs from the one they’ve mapped out for them.

“Parents have to understand that we cannot invoke our own dreams onto our children. We can’t use them to fulfill the dreams we couldn’t, and we can’t use them to maintain a certain reputation or level of credibility. Most importantly, don’t think your child not going to school is an indication of your failure. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed as a parent.”

Through events, outreach, and one-on-one counseling, KAKY helps both children and adults understand that before anything, children are individual people who are a

of color. You can find her at school board meetings, leading outreach efforts, hosting toiletry and food drives, and serving the homeless population in Richmond’s Monroe Park. She also makes it a priority to assure the youth that despite life’s obstacles, they’re seen and understood.

“I go into the schools and embrace them, love on them, help educate them, and help them overcome challenges,” she says. “I also do work within the Department of Juvenile Justice to minister to and educate youth.”

Williams’ own daughter is a testament to what our youth can do when the parents extend their unwavering love and support. At just Jack and Jill, Inc. mentoring program - trust exercise 22, she’s a successful entrepreneur with a thriving business, all without a college degree. Williams’ With all of her efforts, Williams is a living, breathing brother also bypassed college, and is now a pastor of a example of treating the root cause instead of focusing on church, following God’s plan for his life. symptoms. She understands the problem is much deeper, and whether you’re attending to the here and now or “College is important, but it’s not the end-all-be-all,” focusing on the future, it’s all about being proactive and reassures Williams. “You do have a path that’s not bridging the gap. dependent on college.

It doesn’t work for “It’s not all about career or college,” everyone, but it does says Williams. “It’s about having work when you have a an overall positive life experience. plan.”

That’s why I’ve devoted my life to running KAKY full-time. Whether KAKY’s work extends we’re taking college tours or beyond getting youth having personal conversations in into classrooms and the community, I’m boardrooms. Williams working to give our places a special focus on youth what they really where it all begins—in need.” the community. She

remains an overall To donate to Kollege Feeding and advocate for the and Kareers for Youth, providing youth, addressing or to sign up for toiletries to the systemic issues future events, visit homeless in that plague many www.12KAKY.com.

Monroe Park communities, over 200 served. especially communities Photos contributed by Marcy Williams

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The Deal

Save on Your Summer Road Trip Adventure

By Nathaniel Sillin

Are you packing up your car and hitting the road this summer? You’re not alone. According to a survey conducted by AAA, road trips are the most popular type of vacation for families in the U.S. in 2017. In fact, 10 percent more families are expected to take road trips this year than last.

Keep kids entertained to avoid unnecessary stops.

Kids tend to get antsy in the back seat, which can lead to more frequent stops and a few impulse buys if you’re not prepared. Packing snacks and meals ahead of time can help you avoid making extra purchases at the gas station, and will often be cheaper.

From driving to the tip of Cape Cod, to seeing the Great Lakes all the way to a drive through the Yosemite Valley in California, there are limitless ways to explore on the road. Whether you’re going to visit family or taking off on an epic adventure, a road trip can be a great way to make travel about the journey rather than the destination.

Also have a plan for keeping your kids entertained.

Let them choose a few activates ahead of time, like preparing a road trip playlist or making a game like road trip bingo with sights you’ll be seeing along the way. If you have a tablet or phone, downloading free games, podcasts or movies can be another great option.

Before you hit the road, make sure your car can handle the trip. Before you pack up your car, it’s a good idea to take your car to a mechanic and ensure that it’s ready for the drive. Having your car inspected and serviced by a mechanic before a road trip can be a worthwhile investment that could both save you money and prevent an untimely breakdown. Looking into a rental car is an alternative you may want to consider if you’re hoping to avoid wear and tear that might depreciate your car’s value.

Consider your options carefully and choose what makes most financial sense for you.

Pack for bumps along the way. A flat tire or dead battery can put a serious damper on your road trip, especially if you’re not prepared. Keeping a spare tire in your car and checking your tire pressure and tread should be on your pre-trip checklist. Along with your bags, bring a few items for preventive maintenance measures on the road. Having jumper cables, coolant and engine oil handy can save you time and money.

Map out your trip ahead of time. While just jumping in the car and driving without a set destination can be an enticing idea, the spontaneity will likely result in more expenses. Knowing when and where you’ll stop ahead of time, especially for hotels and outings, will help you stick to a budget. If you still crave the more adventurous aspects

of a road trip, you can make a general plan for your major excursions and routes, while stopping for unexpected attractions and views as you go.

Comparison shop to keep hotel prices under control.

Booking ahead of time and using comparison shopping websites will save you from driving around to find the best hotel deal when you’re already tired from a long drive. If you do have to book last-minute, consider using hotel coupon books, hotel-booking apps, group coupon sites or reward points to save a little more. Camping could be another alternative to booking a hotel, which can be particularly cheap if you already have gear like tents and sleeping bags.

Managing your mileage could add up to major savings.

Though fuel prices may generally be down, the cost of filling up your tank can still add up. To make this cost more manageable, you can take advantage of apps that help you find the best gas prices in your area. In certain cases, you may also want to consider renting a more fuelefficient car. You can save even more by mapping your trip ahead of time to avoid road tollways and construction that might slow you down.

out b a k l a t ’s t Le iness. s u b r u o y growing 8

Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

Protect your home while you are away. One other way to save on your road trip is to ensure that your home is protected while you’re gone. If you can, ask a trusted neighbor, friend or family member to keep an eye on your house. If you can’t find someone to help, you can call U.S. Postal Service to hold your mail while you’re away.

Double check that you’ve locked all doors and windows, including the garage door, and that you’ve set your alarms and put your lights on a timer.

Bottom line: Road trips can be an adventurous and inexpensive way to see the country, but costs can add up if you’re underprepared. Planning your stops and packing to anticipate your needs could help you enjoy the ride rather than worry about the expenses.

Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs.

To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter. com/PracticalMoney This article is intended to provide general information and should not be considered legal, tax or financial advice.

It’s always a good idea to consult a legal, tax or financial advisor for specific information on how certain laws apply to you and about your individual financial situation.

Ask us how: (804) 441-6255 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

Easy Eating

Family Features Courtesy Aunt Nellie’s

Warmer weather has arrived and that means it’s salad season!

There are many seasonal salads to enjoy and everyone has a favorite. Change your warm-weather dining habits up a bit with this recipe for Ruby Beet Chicken Salad Skewers.

Easy to prepare, this deliciously unique salad on a skewer is perfect for entertaining family and friends.

The sweet-tangy, nutty, piquant and savory combination of ingredients provides layers of flavors in every forkful. One-

bite baby whole pickled beets are just right for skewering with the mustard-marmalade glazed chicken and crisp romaine.

To finish, drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with toasted almonds and cheese. Add a whole grain baguette and your meal is ready. For more warm-weather recipe ideas, visit www. auntnellies.com.

Ruby Beet Chicken Salad Skewers Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 8 Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Drain beets; set aside.

Season both sides of chicken with salt and pepper, to taste. In small bowl, combine 1 1/2 tablespoons each of mustard and marmalade. Brush mixture over chicken until completely coated. Bake chicken on aluminum foil-lined, rimmed baking sheet, 20-25 minutes, or until juices run clear; set aside.

To make vinaigrette: In medium bowl, combine remaining mustard, remaining marmalade, chives, lemon zest, lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Slowly pour in oil while whisking vigorously until completely combined.

1

jar (16 ounces) baby whole pickled beets, drained

2

large boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 pound)

salt, to taste, plus 1/2 teaspoon, divided

pepper, to taste, plus 1/2 teaspoon, divided

4 1/2

tablespoons stone ground mustard, divided

1 1/2

tablespoons orange marmalade, plus 1/3 cup, divided

2

tablespoons minced fresh chives

1

large lemon, zested and juiced (about 1/3 cup juice)

1/4

cup olive oil

1

bag (9 ounces) leafy romaine pieces

8

wooden skewers

1/3

cup chopped almonds, toasted

1/3

cup crumbled firm white cheese (such as blue cheese, feta or goat)

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Slice cooled chicken into 1-inch pieces. On each skewer, thread a beet, a piece of chicken and 4- 5 pieces of lettuce; repeat twice; add one beet at end. Repeat to make eight skewers. Place skewers on large serving platter. Stir vinaigrette; drizzle lightly over skewers. Sprinkle with almonds and cheese. Serve with remaining vinaigrette.

Substitution: Whole pickled beets may be substituted. Cut beets in half.

Health News from page 3

• Nothing bad will happen if I take my full attention off of my child for a couple of minutes.

• If there is a lifeguard present, I don’t need to worry as much about actively supervising my child in and around water.

• If my child has had swim lessons I don’t have to worry about him/her drowning.

“Active adult supervision is key, and adults should rotate turns acting as a ‘water watcher’ to ensure all children are swimming safely.” says Miller-Hobbs.

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Alternate preparation: To grill chicken, brush both sides with mustard-marmalade mixture. Grill over medium heat 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through and thermometer reads 165 degrees F. If chicken cooks too quickly, reduce heat to medium-low.

Nutritional information per serving: 255 calories; 15 g protein; 20 g carbohydrates; 12 g total fat; 440 mg sodium; 40 mg cholesterol; 2 g dietary fiber; 1 mg iron; .07 mg thiamin; 2,871 IU vitamin A; 7 mg vitamin C.

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Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

9

Civic Beat FUNdraising Good Times Summer is often associated with beaches, family vacations, hot sun and good fun. For those in the nonprofit sector summer is also the season for retreats. These are times set aside to focus on programming, strategy, growth, partnerships and – many times – fundraising. While we believe in keeping the “fun” in fundraising – and all other activities – these retreats need to blend fun and business.

With this column, we share a few suggestions for how to help ensure retreats are well planned for by both staff and board members.

Time for a retreat! support fundraising, and provide guidance on how to use these. Update participants on the processes to measure and evaluate progress towards goals. Include time for small group activities such as creating a timeline and activity chart to guide the work of staff and board.

Participating

Create an agenda that includes opportunities for participants to interact and provide input. When the focus is fundraising make sure you clearly communicate fundraising goals and priorities, including how much needs to be raised for each priority. Share the tools available to

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Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. These can include: 1. What are the challenges we face? How can we overcome these?

When you are a retreat participant you want to stay aware of what is being asked of you before, during and after the retreat. The following are a few items you want to track:

2. What are we selling in the philanthropic marketplace for the upcoming year?

“Advance planning and full engagement by all participants are a prerequisite.”

4. How will we be informed throughout the process?

Planning If you are charged with helping to plan a retreat we suggest you provide all participants with information in advance of the retreat. While not everyone will read and absorb the material, some people truly need to receive information in advance. They don’t respond in the moment – they need time to contemplate what is being asked of them in order to participate. There are others who don’t appreciate surprises: if they are giving their time to a retreat they want to know what is being asked of them. Sending retreat material in advance to all members helps to ensure full participation.

5. What support you can expect to receive from fellow board members and staff?

1. Do you understand the goals and mission set forth by the CEO? 2. Are you clear on ways in which you can become engaged?

3. Do you know what is asked of you and by when?

4. Is there commitment and buy-in from your fellow board members?

3. What has been the track record and success of the organization to date?

5. Is there a written plan that has had input from board staff and key stakeholders?

6. What is the Plan B and Plan C if Plan A falters?

Retreats – or “advances” as some now refer to these gatherings – can be most productive. Advance planning and full engagement by all participants are a prerequisite. Our guidance: prepare, participate, and then get to work!

Copyright 2017 – Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw are authors of four books on fundraising available on Amazon.com. For help growing your fundraising visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

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PUBLIC NOTICE The Tri-Cities Area Metropolitan 2040 Long Rang Transportation Plan is ready for review; written comments on the Transportation Improvement Program should be addressed to Crater Planning District Commission, P.O. Box 1808, Petersburg, Virginia 23805 or by email at dhyder@craterpdc.org and should be received within the review period ending August 10, 2017.

PUBLIC NOTICE Pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 134 and 135; 49 U.S.C 5303 and 5304, the Tri-Cities Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) hereby provides area citizens an opportunity to review and comment on the Transportation Improvement Program.

This transportation plan has been developed by local and State agencies represented on the Tri-Cities Area MPO. A copy of the draft document is available for public viewing during regular visiting hours at public libraries in the Tri-Cities Area during a 30 day public review period beginning July 9, 2017 and ending August 10, 2017.

One public meeting will be scheduled on Tuesday, August 8, 2017 from 3:00PM- 5:00PM at Petersburg Multi-Modal Station first floor lobby located 100 W. Washington Street in Petersburg, VA. The MPO will hold a public hearing at its regular scheduled MPO Policy Committee Meeting on Thursday August 10, 2017 from 4:00

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p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Any persons in need of special accommodations to participate in these public meetings are requested to forward this information either by contacting the Crater Planning District Commission at 804-861-1666 or by email using the address listed below one week prior to the meeting date.

Persons with a hearing impairment may contact the Virginia Relay Center at 1-800-828-1120 to forward information to the Crater Planning District Commission and Tri-Cities Area MPO. A copy of the draft plan and other information related to the Tri-Cities Area MPO is available in electronic format located http://craterpdc.org/ transportation/mpo.htm The Crater Planning District Commission and the Tri-Cities Area MPO assure that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, handicap, sex, age or income status, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent nondiscrimination laws, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of , or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. Written comments on Transportation Improvement Program should be addressed Crater Planning District Commission, P.O. Box 1808, Petersburg, Virginia 23805 and or sent email dhyder@craterpdc.org and received within the review period ending August 10, 2017.

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Urban Views Weekly | July 19, 2017

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