Urban Views Weekly August 3, 2016

Aug. 3, 2016

Scholar of the Week -

Kaylah Burt

Dr. Darnell Lamont Walker produces new documentary on mental illness.

Civic Beat FUNdraising Good Times

So you want to be a college president?

Your success as a college president requires that you combine your technical or subject matter expertise with strong leadership skills.

We recently talked with Dr. Belle Wheelan, President of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. A nationally recognized leader in the field of higher education, Wheelan is the first African American and the first woman to serve in this capacity. With 799 institutions of higher education under her jurisdiction, Wheelan knows firsthand the challenges and opportunities a president must negotiate.

When considering a position, candidates should evaluate whether or not the open position would be the right fit for their skill set and experience. Presidencies require political skills, the ability to work with legislatures, and the willingness to fundraise. All these are above and beyond what is required for the daily running of the institution. Often overlooked is the fact that the institution itself might not be a great fit: “just because

there is an opening doesn’t mean it will be the right job for you.”

Candidates should get their “union card” as Dr. Wheelan calls it, either a PhD or EdD. “Many institutions are now hiring with areas of other expertise, but because

"Get experience in areas outside of where you are currently employed..." faculty are critical you need an academic degree.” That’s your educational background, but it will take more than academics to prepare for the presidency. “Get experience in areas outside of where you are currently employed: get planning skills; get on the committee that does strategic planning; get involved in the budgeting process; learn how student services works.... Ask for exposure to other areas of the institution, especially fundraising.

Learn what it really takes to be a president: the meetings, the politics...

There is so much you need to know before you can begin raising money. You

Letter To The Editor

need to know how challenging it is to secure money for ‘general operating funds.’ You have to get specific and show how funds can leverage other revenue sources.”

Dr. Wheelan also has several tips for those who have already secured the presidency and are looking to stand out. Communication is key; a successful president “is not afraid to tell people what is going on whether or not they like it. The president lays out the facts. He/she asks other people what they think about things and if there are other ways to do things.” By including those around him/her and interacting with the campus beyond his/her office, a president is able to use their support and insight to make better decisions as well as learning more about what is going on around campus.

Finally, Dr. Wheelan suggests a healthy sense of humor when dealing with the trials that will inevitably come with the running of a college or university. “Chill.... Don’t beat yourself up and don’t beat someone else up over things. (You) need to find more effective ways to deal with the frustrations that come with the job. We are dealing with human beings and there will be stress.”

Copyright 2016 – Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw are the authors of "Prerequisites for Fundraising Success" available on Amazon.com. For help growing your fundraising visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

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Urban Views Weekly | August 3, 2016

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Health News

sponsored by VCU Health

What’s the real story on vaccines?

Immunization Awareness Month Do we really need vaccines? We all hear a lot about vaccines and vaccine safety - some good things and some bad things! But, what is the real story on vaccines?

following information is very important for parents on the fence about immunizations.

The statistics include:

It’s critical for you and your child’s health that we know the important facts. Vaccination is an extremely controversial topic these days. Whatever side of the aisle you may fall with regard to your opinion about vaccination, one thing is for certain. The choice to vaccinate or not to vaccinate is a decision that has the potential to greatly impact the health of you and, most importantly, your children for the rest of their lives.

To help us in figuring out this information, we asked Dr. Elizabeth Wolf, a general pediatrician at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Dr. Wolf completed a pediatric residency at the Children’s Hospital Colorado and a fellowship in General Academic Pediatrics at the University of Washington/Seattle Children’s Hospital. As part of her fellowship, she obtained a Masters in Public Health in Epidemiology. She currently conducts research at VCU on what makes people vaccinate or refuse vaccinations. She is interested in what affects immunization coverage within a community and the differences in immunization coverage between various groups.

Her passion in pediatrics first began during her study of vaccine preventable diseases when she worked in Africa after residency and saw children dying needlessly from meningitis and diarrhea.

“This is why National Immunization Awareness month is so important,” comments Dr. Wolf. “I think about how important it is to spread the word on the importance of

J. Chevonte’ Alexander

• Out of 1,000 U.S. children who will catch the measles, one to three of them will die.

• The average number of annual cases of measles in the 20th century in the United States was over a half million. In 2010, thanks to successful vaccines, there were only 63 cases. vaccines and how life saving they can be.”

Throughout the lifespan, doctors give vaccines to protect against bacteria and viruses that can kill or cause serious disability or illness. Different immunizations are given at different ages based on when people are most susceptible to vaccine preventable diseases and when people’s immune systems respond the best to the vaccinations.

In adolescence, we give a vaccine (HPV) that prevents cervical cancer. There are certain vaccines that are recommended for pregnant women including influenza and tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis (TDaP). These vaccines help protect their infants against the flu and whooping cough.

The key here is education; making an informed decision by investigating the facts with an open mind and knowing exactly what you are getting yourself into before you commit to do anything.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the

• 38 percent of children younger than 5 years who had measles required hospitalization.

• 85 percent of babies born to mothers who had rubella in the first trimester will have birth defects.

• More than 95 percent of people who receive measles, mumps and rubella vaccine become immune to all three diseases.

If you’re like most parents, you don’t think twice before having your children vaccinated. You want your kids to be healthy, so you make sure they get their shots. In fact, nearly 90 percent of kids in the United States are fully immunized against ailments that once killed thousands of children every year.

Yet, despite the fact that vaccines can prevent many serious diseases, a small but growing number of parents are questioning the need for, and benefits of, immunization.

What do you think? Vaccinate or not? Let us know what you think!

THE ALL-NEW OUTPATIENT CHILDREN’S PAVILION

ROBOTS WELCOME Take a virtual tour of the Children’s Pavilion at chrichmond.org/pavilion

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Urban Views Weekly | August 3, 2016

3

The Deal

By Nathaniel Sillin

10 Tips for Becoming a Knowledgeable Renter On the hunt for a new apartment? A move can be an exciting opportunity to explore a new area or meet new people. However, competitive rental markets can make it difficult to find a desirable place on a budget.

Keep these ten tips in mind to manage the process like a pro. They’ll help you stand out from the crowd, get a good deal, enjoy the neighborhood and manage your rights and responsibilities as a renter.

control or other regulations can impact your situation as well. If you can afford one, you could hire a lawyer to review and explain the lease.

4. Negotiate the Terms. You can’t always negotiate lower rent (it’s worth trying), but there may be flexibility when it comes to the security deposit, parking spaces, administrative fees, or the lease’s length.

worth of losses. It reimburses you if your belongings are stolen, damaged or destroyed by a covered cause, such as a fire. The insurance also helps pay for legal fees if, for instance, someone sues after getting injured at your home.

8. Make Your Own Repairs. Prior to signing the lease, ask if you can take on some of the maintenance responsibilities in exchange for reduced rent. You could offer to handle and pay for basic upkeep, such as replacing lights or smoke detectors, and making minor repairs.

1. Talk to Other Tenants. Speak with current or past renters to get a sense for the building and landlord. Ask about the neighborhood, noise, timeliness with repairs and any other pressing questions. Consider looking for online reviews of the landlord as well, and research the neighborhood.

“Being an informed renter is especially important in a competitive rental market.”

9. Pay Attention to Bills. Evaluate which bills you’ll pay in addition to the rent, such as gas, heat, water, electricity, trash, Wi-Fi or parking. A more expensive apartment that includes these can save you money overall.

2. Upgrade Your Application. Go beyond the basic application requirements and include pictures, references, credit reports and a short bio about yourself and whoever else may be moving in. Try to catch the landlord’s eye and show that you’ll take care of the property. You can order a free credit report from each bureau (Equifax, TransUnion and Experian) once every 12 months at AnnualCreditReport. com.

5. Learn Your Rights. Protect yourself by learning about your rights as a renter. They can vary by state, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has a directory with links to tenants’ rights websites for each state.

10. Talk to Your Landlord. Hiding financial trouble helps no one. Talk to your landlord and ask for an extension if you can’t make rent. Good tenants can be hard to come by, and your landlord will likely prefer open communication and a late check to being left in the dark.

6. Do a Walkthrough. Walk through the apartment with the landlord, look for damages and document anything you find.

You’ll thank yourself later when you move out and ask for your full security deposit back.

Bottom Line: Being an informed renter is especially important in a competitive rental market. Take simple steps to improve your rental and money management skills and you’ll benefit for years to come.

7. Consider Renters Insurance. Renters insurance costs about $15 to $30 a month for a policy that covers $50,000

Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs.

To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ PracticalMoney

3. Understand Your Lease. The lease may list the rent amount, terms of the security deposit, guest policies and other crucial details. Read it carefully and ask questions if you don’t understand something. State laws regarding rent

TanyaFree.com/ Urban Views Weekly Poll

Birthdays • Anniversaries • Weddings • Funerals

We the people are less than 100 days away from electing the next President of the United States.

Regardless of candidate, “We The People” have the right and responsibility to exercise our right to vote.

What’s your take? How many family members and friends do you know that will be voting in this year’s election?

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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. You can now watch us LIVE at TanyaFree.com and ustream.tv

Celebrating 50 Years in Business www.BlandsFlorist.com Visit us!

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SAVOR

Family Features

Courtesy of McCormick

Brazilian Grilling with Medal-Worthy Skewers With all eyes on Brazil this summer, what better way to celebrate the games than to recreate the flavors of the host country?

Create your own backyard Brazilian barbecue with traditional meat skewers that pack a bold flavor punch.

“Skewers are an easy food to serve friends and family during a Rio-themed viewing party,” said McCormick Executive Chef Kevan Vetter. “A Brazilian marinade pairs great with steak or pork, so grill up both

and let guests choose their own meat and complementary sauce. My favorite is a red chimichurri, which gets fiery flavor from smoked paprika, crushed red pepper and jalapeno.”

For more easy tips and recipes to host an award-winning Rio-themed party this summer, visit GrillMates.com and McCormick.com. Also, check us out on Pinterest and Facebook.

Brazilian Meat Skewers

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 8 1 package Brazilian steakhouse marinade 1/4 cup oil 1/4 cup water 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into

1 1/2-inch cubes 1 pound boneless New York strip steak, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes Mix marinade mix, oil, water and vinegar in small bowl. Reserve 2 tablespoons for brushing. Place pork and steak into separate large resealable plastic bags or glass dishes. Divide remaining marinade evenly among pork and steak; turn to coat well.

Refrigerate 15 minutes or longer for extra flavor. Remove both meats from marinade.

Discard any remaining marinade. Thread pork and steak onto skewers.

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On Saturday, June 18, 2016, Dahrnaz Tigner set out on a 1300-mile journey to the nation’s capital to bring awareness to childhood obesity. Inspired by his sister Jade, who struggles with obesity and the First Lady of the United States’ Let’s Move initiative, Dahrnaz made it his personal mission to bring awareness and support to one of the leading causes of many illnesses in the country.

His walking journey is a remarkable story - he has met homeless people, walked 15 miles through a barren area of Florida without water, and visited children who are struggling with obesity at Florida Children’s Hospital. You can follow him at www.facebook.com/Dahrnaz where he is documenting his journey in pictures and stories.

Dahrnaz and his brother, Minnesota Vikings Defensive Back, Jabari Price started the walk with family and friends,

but shortly after reaching Martin County in Florida, Jabari had to turn back due to a family emergency, and Dahrnaz then walked solo for 700 miles through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and parts of North Carolina before being joined by his younger brother, Aris Knight, a student at Florida Gulf Coast College and a National Guard Reservist, on Wednesday, July 20, in Raleigh/Durham North Carolina, to complete the final 311 miles to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

This has been a journey of discovery and awakening for Dahrnaz, who walks with a 55lb backpack, equipped with his tripod for photos, two phones, a mini iPad and clothing for the trip.

Donations are accepted at: www. thewalkofhearts.org where there is a GoFundMe link to make donations to the cause.

Kitchen Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak thoroughly in water for at least 30 minutes before threading with meat. This prevents them from burning when on the grill.

Prep time: 10 minutes Servings: 12 (2 tablespoons each) red bell pepper, stemmed and cut into large pieces cup coarsely chopped onion cup packed cilantro leaves cup red wine vinegar jalapeno pepper, stemmed, seeded and coarsely chopped teaspoons chopped fresh garlic teaspoon ground cumin teaspoon oregano leaves

A Brother’s Journey, Inspired by his Sister

Grill skewers over medium-high heat 8 to 10 minutes or until meat is to desired doneness, turning occasionally and brushing with reserved marinade.

Red Chimichurri Sauce

1

1/2 1/2 1/4 1

2 1 1

The Walk of Hearts

1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper Place all ingredients in food processor or blender; cover. Process just until finely chopped.

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes to blend flavors.

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Urban Views Weekly | August 3, 2016

5

“I didn’t want my children to come home from school and find my body like I found my mother’s. Slumped over old photos of me, holding an empty pill bottle. That’s why I got help.”

This quote, written by a depression survivor, kicks off a two-minute trailer to a documentary. As the trailer comes to a close, you’ll hear the voice of a young black man, recalling his own experiences.

and worthless, at 6.7% vs their counterparts’ 4.7%. But data is not destiny; the journey to mental stability and peeling back layers of emotional trauma is ongoing, and requires our constant attention, understanding, and pursuit of a solution. And while undoing generations of the “grin and bear it” approach to depression, substance abuse, and anxiety, to name a few, is not easy, it must be done in order to ensure a brighter future for Black Americans.

Outside t

Powerful Document Mental Illness in the

“I tried to commit suicide, and I Darnell Lamont Walker ended up getting committed into The aforementioned documentary, a place in Richmond. I was still titled “Outside the House,” is underage at the time, so I got lucky; I definitely didn’t want the catalyst for a much needed conversation within the any paperwork on me.”

African American community, a conversation that needs to transcend the four walls that force us to deny the existence The video, though clearly a preview to a much larger, in of the very thing that destroys us. Darnell Lamont Walker, depth project, opens the viewer up to a myriad of stories Ph.D, a Charlottesville, VA native and the creator of the from men and women who bravely discuss something project, spent months speaking with men and women in considered taboo in many African American households: Richmond, VA and beyond on this very topic, with the mental illness. Their voices echo through the speakers, mission of creating a documentary that will burn down the almost as calls-to-action, encouraging viewers to do some house where we keep these soul-searching, identify secrets. trends, and confront potential mental illness in their own lives.

Although July is officially Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s imperative that the conversation about African Americans and our mental health persists beyond the month. The United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health has reported that Black Americans are 20% more likely to experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness than adult whites, but also that due to stigma, we’re also least likely to seek help. And according to the Center for Disease Control, black women are more likely to feel sadness and hopelessness than their white counterparts, at 3.9% vs. 3.3%. Black men, on the other hand, are more likely to feel sadness, hopelessness,

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Urban Views Weekly | August 3, 2016

“There’s been this longstanding thing where we don’t share our problems, mental health status, or mental issues outside of the house,” Darnell explains.

“I wanted to go into the communities and get people to share their stories and be really vulnerable. I’ve learned that once people are honest and willing to share their experiences, then others will be able to say ‘Hey, there are other people going through what I’m going through. I’m not alone.’”

Having welcomed vulnerability earlier on than many of his peers, Walker recalls far too many conversations where friends chose not to share experiences because they felt no one would understand. Through this documentary, he’s most excited to provide a place of refuge for African Americans who believe that they’re alone in their pain,

“...Black Americans are 20% feelings of sadness, hopeless adult whites, ...we’re also struggle, and past trauma. And he knows first-hand why a project like this is so critical.

“Off the top of my head, I can think of five people who have committed suicide,” he explains. “And they were black. We always hear, ‘Oh black people don’t kill themselves; that’s not a black thing.’ But it’s happening! There was a 13-yearold kid who killed himself because he was going through

the House

tary Sheds Light on e Black Community

By Janna M. Hall

naked eye, you’re often person needs to speak looked at as weak or to someone before their troubled, and you’re situation takes an even certainly viewed through darker turn. a different lens. He gives Walker is a firm believer the example of the family in therapy for African member we all know has Americans, and not just for issues. “We talk about handling trauma or coping them when they’re not with depression. around, but never address He believes it’s necessary it in a serious manner and for the human condition. we certainly don’t suggest they seek help. If they go “The first time I went and get diagnosed, then it Dr. Walker meets with CNN news anchor and spoke to anybody Don Lemon at protests in Ferguson, Missouri. becomes something else. It about anything—and becomes ‘yeah, you really I’ve never considered have issues,’ and no one wants to be looked at that way.” myself someone with a mental illness or mental disorder— The second reason why we don’t talk has a lot to do with the generations before us who have dealt with trauma and, in their eyes, have overcome it.

“When we bring up our issues and hint at mental illness, we have older generations that tell us to stick with it, that ‘it’s not that bad,’ and we need to be strong and get through it,” says Walker. “And we’ve been pushing our way through it for so long that we have older folks who are so depressed, but they tell the younger generations who want to get help, ‘Oh, you’ll be alright in a couple days.’”

% more likely to experience sness, and worthlessness than o least likely to seek help.” issues that he didn’t feel comfortable talking to his parents about. So finally I said OK, this is getting out of hand. We need to start talking.”

There are two main reasons why we as a people don’t talk, Walker believes. For starters, there’s a known stigma around mental illness. By and large, when telling someone that you’re seeking help for an illness not visible to the

was when a friend asked me to come with her to an appointment with her therapist. We just sat there talking, but it helped in ways I would’ve never imagined. It helps to talk to someone who’s not emotionally invested in you and can help you make sense of questions like, ‘Why do I do certain things?’ I realized then that you don’t need to have a mental illness to talk to a therapist.”

The truth is, though, that African Americans have a special need for therapy, even when we can’t readily identify why. For generations, we’ve lacked the opportunity to be completely vulnerable and address our problems.

From our ancestors in 1619 And he believes that overly to men and women on the religious groups haven’t front lines of protests today, helped much, either. In the we’ve had to maintain a documentary, he speaks poker face in order to stand with a woman who was against adversity. Having Dr. Walker, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and friend stand molested by a close family to pretend that footage of in front of Michael Brown’s memorial on the member at the age of 24. police brutality doesn’t affect streets of Ferguson, Missouri.

Struggling to “be strong our psyche is doing more and get through it,” she harm than good. So where sought professional help despite her family’s years-long does that leave us when it’s time to rear the next generation advice to pray, and then pray harder. As a result, her of Black men and women? mother wouldn’t speak to her for months. Thankfully, The Virginia Health Care Foundation offers dozens of though, many pastors are beginning to encourage their resources that helps men and women of all ages cope with congregation to seek professional help in addition to mental health issues on every level. On their website, www. prayer. Younger pastors in particular have mental health vhcf.org, you’ll find guides and advice on how to cope degrees themselves, so they’re able to identify when a continues on page 11 Photos submitted by Dr. Darnell Walker

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By Olivia Carey

Happenings The Happenings is a compilation of things to do in the cultural hub of RVA. Some events will be traditional urban offerings, and some more eclectic. All of them give us the opportunity to broaden the horizons of entertainment with art, music, and history.

Olivia Carey is a rising senior at Mills E. Godwin High School.

Wednesday, August 3 Just the Beginning at Strange Matter Just the Beginning is a hip hop and r&b concert to be hosted and performed in by The Pack 5. The self-described “upcoming hip hop group” tends to bring slower rhythms that give their lyrics room to shine. The concert also showcases local music and artists like Nisha, Rex Ruger, and Conductor Mane & Big Dev, among others.

Visit Strange Matter for a sampling of RVA’s vibrant hip hop scene.

This event is 18+.

When: 8:00 p.m.

Where: 929 W Grace St., Richmond, VA Cost: $7 Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office.

804.447.4763 strangematterrva.com instagram.com/pack5industries/

Thursday, August 4 Flowers After 5 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens On Thursday’s, Lewis Ginter leaves its doors open a few hours longer so that guests can enjoy the gardens into the summer evening. Bring chairs and blankets to relax and listen to live music at Bloemendaal House from Bruce Ewan, Steve Jacobs, Steve Shaw, and Bob Berberich. Kids can spend time playing in 8

the Children’s Garden. Drinks and food are available for purchase. On the menu for Thursday: Guenoc Petite Syrah & Guenco Pinot Grigio; and ribs, baked beans, and cornbread.

Dogwood Dell is taking the Festival of Arts as an opportunity to bring the nostalgia of Monty Python and the absolute hilarity of “Spamalot” to Richmond.

The last Flowers After 5 of the summer will take place on September 8.

When: 8:30 p.m.

When: 5:00 p.m.

Where: 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA 23228 Cost: Adults $13; Seniors (55+) $11; Children (3-12) $8; Children (under 3) free 804.262.9887 lewisginter.org M*A*S*H reading by the Richmond Triangle Players M*A*S*H stands for “Mobile Army Surgical Hospital”, and the 1970s show told the story of the doctors who worked in such a hospital and their antics during the Korean War. Head back to the day it first aired, September 17, 1972, as the Richmond Triangle Players perform the series’ pilot and two first-season episodes in a staged reading.

Catch “Spamalot” on both August 5 and 6.

Where: 600 S Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220 Cost: Free 804.646.1437 Faces of RVA at ART 180 ART 180 serves kids from ages eight to 18 in the Richmond area by offering art programs that strengthen sense of self while offering a platform for youth to talk about what means the most to them. “Faces of RVA” is a series of mixed media portraits based off of historical images of AfricanAmerican RVA residents. Things like buttons, feathers, and sequins, among other things, were used to create their likenesses.

The exhibit will stay open until August 25.

When: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Where: 114 W Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23220

The final performance will take place on August 13.

Cost: free

When: Thursday-Saturday - 8:00 p.m.; Sunday - 4:00 p.m.

art180.org

Where: 1300 Altamont Ave., Richmond, VA 23230 Cost: Cost: $15, tickets can be purchased online 804.346.8113 rtriangle.org

Friday, August 5 “Spamalot” at Dogwood Dell’s 60th Festival of Arts “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”: a 1975 spoof on Arthurian legend. 2005 Broadway musical “Spamalot” can be described as a triple Tony Award-winning spoof of a spoof.

Urban Views Weekly | August 3, 2016

804.233.4180

The Shack Up at The Broadberry and The Camel The Shack Up is a two-day concert between The Broadberry and The Camel featuring The Shack Band, The London Souls, The Southern Belles, Murphy’s Kids, James Justin and Co., Atlas Road Crew, Stop Light Observations, Dale and the ZDubs, Life on Mars: A Tribute to David Bowie, Horsehead, Red Light Rodeo, Lord Nelson, Jouwala Collective, Kendall Street Company, Nesta, and Slack Family Band.

August 5 at The Broadberry, The Shack Band, Atlas Road Crew, and Horsehead will be playing. At The Camel, The Southern Belles,

Jouwala Collective, and Slack Family Band will show.

August 6 at The Broadberry, The Shack Band, The London Souls, James Justin and Co., Stop Light Observations, Life on Mars: A Tribute to David Bowie, Red Light Rodeo, Lord Nelson, and Kendall Street Company will all be playing. At the Camel, Murphy’s Kids, Dale and the ZDubs, and Nesta will show.

When: 8/5 at The Broadberry & The Camel - 8:00 p.m.; 8/6 at The Broadberry - 2:00 p.m.; 8/6 at The Camel - 8:00 p.m.

Where: The Broadberry - 2729 W Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220; The Camel - 1621 W Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220 Cost: $10-35, depending on the ticket (prices can be checked online) The Broadberry - 804.353.1888 The Camel - 804.353.4901 thebroadberry.com thecamel.org

Saturday, August 6 5x5: Summer Sessions at the 1708 Gallery Local artists were invited to imagine how they would use gallery space if given it. It was an opportunity to try something new, to experiment. Five of the most innovative projects were chosen to come to the gallery and show for two weeks at a time.

“Pattern Language for a Social Fabric” was created by Brooke Inman, Molly Fair, and Jesse Goldstein and features images burned into screens. While the artists began the project, images are continually layered into the screens through open-printing to create a true “social fabric”. Throughout each session, the audience and the artists have the opportunity to create together.

While “Pattern Language for a Social Fabric” leaves after August 6, summer sessions will continue through August 20.

When: Tuesday-Friday - 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; Saturday - 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Continues to Page 11 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

How to Guide

How to Choose a Consignment Furniture Store Looking to avoid paying big prices at a big-name furniture store? Looking to save a little money? You may want to try looking at a consignment furniture store for unique and sometimes less expensive furniture.

Consignment shops are a terrific option for people who want uncommon furniture at fantastic prices. They usually offer a wide variety of high-class merchandise – antiques, designer pieces, vintage furniture and accessories – made of quality materials.

good amount of time trying to figure out how to put the furniture together. Rarely do they come already assembled anymore.

The best consignment stores will have antiques and whimsical pieces, customized to fit the people and interests in your community. These markets will have lots of solid furniture that's built to last a long time.

When you are looking to find a good consignment furniture store, here are some things to consider: LOCATION A good store will be clean, well-organized and convenient.

A store's condition is a reflection of its management.

You can tell a lot simply by walking around. The overall atmosphere should be neat, fresh and stylish. In addition, the style of the merchandise should match your tastes.

It's fun to enter a consignment store because each shop is so different. Too often, chain furniture stores are predictable in their layout and appearance. Those big box stores typically have imported, particle-board furnishings that are flimsy and fragile. Plus, you have to spend a

Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce

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EXPERTISE Another sign that you are dealing with a reputable consignment store is how the managers and employees treat their merchandise. The staff will know all about the furniture. They can tell you about the manufacturer and other details about each piece.

Not only do these people love furniture, but they also enjoy helping customers find the perfect piece for their

www.CVAACC.org

home. They know all about their inventory, and are happy to help you.

The sales staff should act more like guides than traditional salespeople. They should be able to tell you what makes one chair better than another, for example. They can also offer polite suggestions to help you make smart decorating decisions. If they don't have a piece available, the best consignment store will be able to call you when new items come in that might meet your specifications.

SELECTION The selection in the consignment store should match your style and vary to give you more options. Some shops have such a wide variety of furniture that you will undoubtedly find something that fits your needs. Most, however, gravitate toward one time period or style. For example, one store might have knotty-pine country designs while another might have older pieces that would look good in Victorian homes.

But that's what makes shopping at consignment furniture stores so fun. You never know what you'll find. Shopping becomes an adventure, especially with new pieces arriving all the time. Finding the right sore will make you a lucky and happy shopper.

Expand your network and Grow your business.

Urban Views Weekly | August 3, 2016

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Scholar Highlight

Kaylah Burt

of Manchester High School GPA: 3.25 College of Interest: Shenandoah University, Methodist University Major Community Service: BETA Club, Church activities, lemonade stands Strong Interests: Criminal Justice Favorite Activities: Track and photography

By Janeal Downs

Since the eighth grade Kaylah Burt has had an interest in the criminal justice field and it has simply grown over the years.

“As I have developed into a young adult I’ve continued to have a passion for helping others, whether tremendous or small,” she wrote in an essay. “The passion I carry has cultivated into a love for crime fighting, saving lives, and the love for community service.” She has already had a taste of what it would be like to be in the field, because this past summer she interned with the Virginia State Police Department. “It was amazing. I honestly wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did but it was such a great experience,” she said. She also had the opportunity to create a video as a tribute to a fallen trooper. Because of her video and its positive reception from the others, she received a letter of commendation from one of the retired troopers.

She is not yet completely sure if she will go into the police academy, but Kaylah does plan on attending a four-year university and majoring in criminal justice. Her top choices are Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va. and Methodist University in Fayetteville, N.C. These schools appeal to her because she likes that they are small so teachers can connect with students and the family aspect of the schools. One lesson she will take with her to college is that it is important to be open minded and “learn from other people. Don’t be stuck in your ways.”

With a passion for helping others, while still in high school, she volunteers through different organizations to give back.

Among other activities, through her church’s youth ministry she served by helping the Children’s Miracle Network Anthem Lemon Aid stand which reached out to the elderly. She has also been able to volunteer as a member of her school’s National BETA club. When she is not volunteering or doing school work, Kaylah’s favorite activities are running track and photography. She enjoys the team aspect of track, and photography allows her to be “creative with my own vision.” Her photography skills led her to making the video for the Virginia State Police Department, and she also had the opportunity to create special video tributes of various youth activities for her church family.

Kaylah’s parents are her biggest inspirations because they are very driven in life. “Empowering others and helping them live in a safe environment is something that really drives me,” Kaylah said. Although there are dangers in the criminal justice field and currently a lot of backlash against those who work in criminal justice, Kaylah wants to be able to change the communities in Richmond, around the world and “bring minorities forward instead of backwards.” She wants the community to know that she likes to help people and make others smile.

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Virginia Sales Tax Holiday

"The House" from page 7

with various mental health illnesses. Their East Main Street office also serves as an in-person resource for inperson counseling. In 2015, a record-breaking 39% of all patients seen for mental health treatment were uninsured, and the Virginia community health centers provided free mental health care for over 31,000 residents.

In “Outside the House,” Walker delves deeper into the lives of Black Americans and shows the importance of taking advantage of mental health resources available, and the monumental impact treatment and counseling can have on our lives.

“I wanted to have this documentary done in June, but there’s always more information to add and always a new story to tell,” Walker says. “I’m just asking the questions that’ll help us all figure out what the next steps should be. This documentary will open up the gate, but I can’t say what the final outcome will be. I don’t even want to have a final say; I just know that it’ll get a much-needed conversation started.”

To learn more about Darnell Walker’s documentary, "Outside the House," visit www.OutsidetheHouseDoc.com.

Happenings from page 8

Where: 319 W Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220 Cost: free 804.643.1708 1708gallery.org

Sunday, August 7 “We Are Stars” at the Science Museum of Virginia “We Are Stars” travels through the history of the universe. Plucky Victorian guide “the Time Master” leads the audience all the way from what scientists have dubbed the “Big Bang” to the creation of atoms and the formation of the planets. Watch the universe unfold on a screen that redefines the term “high definition.”

When: Show - 1:00 p.m.

Monday-Saturday - 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; Sunday - 11:30 a.m.5:00 p.m.

Where: 2500 W Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220 Cost: Adult (13-59) - $18 (exhibits & dome show); Senior (60+) - $17 (exhibits & dome show); Youth (4-12) - $17 (exhibits & dome show) 804.846.1400 smv.org www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

August 5 – 7, 2016

The Department of Taxation has published rules and each new or used article of clothing or footwear with a guidelines to provide guidance to retailers and consumers selling price of $100 or less. regarding Virginia’s combined sales tax holiday for hurricane preparedness items, Energy Star and clothing and school supplies, WaterSense Items: and Energy Star and WaterSense Exempt Energy Star and items. Legislation has combined WaterSense qualified products the tax holidays into one include certain specified recurring three-day event, which new or used items that: 1) begins at 12:01 a.m. on the first have been designated by the Combined Tax Holiday Friday in August of every year United States Environmental and ends at 11:59 p.m. on the Protection Agency and the Hurricane Preparedness Items Sunday immediately following.

United States Department The 2016 combined tax holiday of Energy as meeting School Supplies, Clothing, Footwear is August 5 – August 7. or exceeding each such

Energy Star and WaterSense Items During the period, consumers agency’s requirements may purchase certain items under the Energy Star or in preparation for hurricanes WaterSense programs; 2) are and other emergencies, certain priced at $2,500 or less per item; 3) are purchased for clothing and school supplies, and certain Energy Star noncommercial home or personal use; and 4) are affixed and WaterSense qualified items exempt of the sales and with an Energy Star or WaterSense label. use tax.

For a specific list of exempt items, visit the Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Items: Exempt hurricane preparedness items include any new or used: 1) portable generators with a sales price of $1,000 or less per item; 2) gas-powered chainsaws with a sales price of $350 or less per item; 3) chainsaw accessories with a sales price of $60 or less per item; and 4) other specified hurricane preparedness items with a sales price of $60 or less per item.

Department of Taxation’s website.

H

H

School Supplies, Clothing, and Footwear: The exempt items also include each new or used school supply item with a selling price of $20 or less per item and

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