Urban Views Weekly November 25, 2015

Nov. 25, 2015

Scholar of the Week - Ahmed Woodson

Give a Holiday Salute to Our Military

Civic Beat FUNdraising Good Times

Annual giving – five ways to say thank you Many nonprofits will see an increase in gifts from individuals over the next few weeks. Some will be from faithful annual donors. Others may respond for the first time to your year-end appeal. Still others will feel an emotional tug on their heart strings and impulsively give online. As you prepare to say thank you, we offer five things to consider:

children. Or expose more girls to careers in science and engineering. Maybe your advocacy resulted in a legislative change. In all cases, tell your story.

4. Use an up-to-date thank you letter. Don’t use a general all purpose thank you. Share current information and perhaps a teaser about forthcoming projects or events. Keep it timely.

1. If your donor took the time to give, you can take the time to say thank you. There’s always a lot to do, but “thank you” must take precedence.

If you plan well, it shouldn’t take much time.

And, it can be joyous – you’ve received a gift.

If a donor gives online, send your thank you electronically. If your donor sends a gift, send your thank you by mail. If it’s a meaningful or unusual gift, take a moment to pick up the phone and say thanks.

5. Add a personal handwritten note. If you know a donor, it’s logical that they know you. Show that you care by adding a handwritten note to the thank you, regardless of the gift size.

Over the years, we have talked with many nonprofits about this topic. If a donor gives less than $250, there’s no legal requirement to say “thank you” or provide a written receipt. You may not be legally required to acknowledge smaller gifts, but what if you didn’t receive the gift? We also experienced an organization that received its largest gift from an individual as a bequest – it was a woman who gave $25 a year for decades.

2. Say thank you – plain and simple – without asking for another gift. We recently read a “rant” by Holly Hall via Inside Philanthropy.

Her point: “thank donors without asking them for anything.” Research shows that’s what donors want. It may not be what you want, but with nonprofits losing 50% of the new donors they gain in a year, it might be a good idea to think about what donors want.

Thank you deepens a relationship. The focus is on the donor, not on your next gift.

Copyright 2015– Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw say “thank you” for reading our column. Happy Thanksgiving. www.saadandshaw.com

3. Share the impact your donor’s gift will make.

Donors want to know about impact. Maybe you can distribute more holiday gifts to

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The Nutcracker A magical swan sleigh, gliding across the stage; a sparkling collection of new costumes; and a ‘ Heavenly’ new scene: the 2015 production of Richmond Ballet’s The Nutcracker will feature never-before-seen production elements envisioned by Richmond Ballet Artistic Director Stoner Winslett.

Debuting on December 11, the production’s opening night at the Carpenter Theatre, these magical additions will take the stage after over a year in production. The Ballet’s highly-acclaimed version of the holiday classic runs December 11th through the 23rd, with 13 opportunities to see these stunning additions.

New additions for the 2015 production are set to include a new Swan Sleigh, that appears at the conclusion of Act I. Designed by the production’s original scenic designer, Charles Caldwell, and built by Adirondack Studios, the soft blue swan is adorned with elegant lanterns, and is wrapped in an ornate weave of rich, golden filigree and tracery. Atop her head sits a stunning crown. This enchanting sleigh, which will glide across the stage, is set to dazzle audiences as she carries Clara and her Nutcracker prince between magical lands.

Additions also include a new scene at the opening of Act II, featuring new choreography by Ms. Winslett, scenery by Mr. Caldwell, and new characters in costumes by the production’s original designer David Heuvel, including four Sugar Plum Fairy attendants danced by students at The School of Richmond Ballet (SRB). The number of angels in the production has also doubled; this year, 12 angels, also danced by SRB students, will wear costumes that

have been updated by Mr. Heuvel. This new scene, where Clara and her Nutcracker Prince travel to the Kingdom of The Sweets, is meant to mimic the Heavens, complete with twinkling stars and a castle in the clouds.

New, vibrant design elements to the Snow Queen and King costumes as well as refurbishments to the costumes for the Snow Corps will also appear in Act I. Though the well-known, silver and icy-blue costumes originally designed by Mr. Heuvel will retain much of their original look, colors and details will appear brighter and sharper. The Waltz of the Flowers, near the end of the second act, will also showcase new costumes, a colorful update to Mr. Heuvel’s original designs.

Both the costume refurbishments and new elements for the Richmond Ballet production of The Nutcracker are made

possible, in part, by a grant from The Cabell Foundation and The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation.

In addition to new costumes, scenery and choreography, the 2015 production will also feature 187 accomplished students from The School of Richmond Ballet, who will share the stage with the entire professional company, second company and current roster of trainees. A record number 22 boys auditioned this year’s production.

Returning for the 2015 run, Clara’s Tea Party, the popular postshow event with elegant tea and sweets event, will once again take up residence in Richmond CenterStage’s Rhythm Hall. This separately ticketed event, at $25.00 per guest, is scheduled to follow the matinee performances on Saturday, 12/12, and Saturday, 12/19.

The events begin at 4:00 pm. Also back by popular demand, Pupcracker; Richmond Ballet is pleased to partner once again with the Richmond SPCA for two Pupcracker performances during the company’s production of The Nutcracker. Available pets from the Richmond SPCA will appear in the following performances: During intermission and immediately following the 2:00 pm performance on Saturday, 12/12, and Saturday, 12/19.

The Nutcracker - December 11 -23 With Richmond Symphony Richmond CenterStage’s Carpenter Theatre Tickets start at $20.00. Tickets available at eTIX.com, by calling 1.800.514.3849, or through the Richmond Ballet Box Office at 407 E. Canal Street.

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Urban Views Weekly | November 25, 2015

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ViewPoints

By Dr. T

To whom much is given…

How often do we think about how much we have to be thankful for instead of how many bills we have to pay? It is sometimes easy to forget that we live in a nation of abundance even when we don’t “feel” like we are on the receiving end of that fact. Statistics tell us that our unemployment rate is 5.0% and closer to 10.4% among African Americans. Our middle class is shrinking and many people are struggling to provide for their families despite working fulltime at 2 or 3 low wage jobs. Economists continue to tell us the economy is sluggish and productivity flat. We keep hearing the outlook is bleak and if it’s not doomsday yet, it will be soon. And yet, as a nation, we throw away more food than we consume. How can that be?

than the million people who will not survive this week. · If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the agony of imprisonment or torture, or the horrible pangs of starvation, you are luckier than 500 million people alive and suffering. · If you can read this message, you are more fortunate than 3 billion people in the world who cannot read it at all.

When we take stock in what we have and where we live, there is a measure of humility that should fill our hearts, and generate a need in each of us to share from what we do have with those who have nothing to share at all. In this country, certain types of statistical information, media promotion and business interests cultivate a false narrative that Yes, it is true that some are far better off than others and that there is not enough to meet our needs. This promotes panic, despair and there are those for whom just “making it” every day is a struggle, Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D. a spirit of lack among the people, when the truth is that there is no lack financially. There are children who go to bed hungry and families but rather, more than enough. The problem is that a small percentage of Founder and Artistic Director who are challenged just to put a healthy meal on the table. There people have accumulated so much wealth for themselves, while ignoring The Conciliation Project and is no question that extreme poverty is a reality in this country. the responsibility they have to the adage “To whom much is given….

And, yet with all that said, when we look at the United States Associate Professor much is required. ” What would happen if those who have way too much in comparison to the rest of the world, this nation is one of the Virginia Commonwealth University began to share from their abundance with those who have too little? wealthiest with an abundance of resources in both people and DrT@Margins2theCenter.com It just might begin to address poverty and hunger in a country where capital. Many of those who have little in finances or resources, there is no reason for anyone to go hungry. As Americans, we all have www.theconciliationproject.org still have more than most of the world’s poor and struggling different perspectives on the Thanksgiving Holiday, as the holiday itself is populations. Just consider the following: historically complicated. You know, the Pilgrims, the First Nations, and · If you have food in your fridge, clothes on your back, a roof over your head and a the disparate accounts of that so-called first Thanksgiving we like to remember. Instead, let’s challenge one another to count our blessings, be thankful for what we have and then, place to sleep, you are richer than 75% of the world. generously, share with others because we have more than enough…with a generosity · If you have money in the bank, your wallet, and some spare change, you are of heart and a generosity of spirit we can make a difference. It is our responsibility to recognize…what is required when we have been given so much. among the top 8% of the world’s wealthy. · If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed

Up Next Week: Terrorism LIVES in America & it’s NOT ISIS

TanyaFree.com/Urban Views Weekly Poll The House of Representatives voted Thursday to ban Syrian and Iraqi refugees from entering the United States until tougher screening measures are in place in response to the terrorist attacks in Paris. A recent poll shows that 56% of Americans disapprove of allowing more Syrian refugees into the country.

What’s Your Take? Do you support a U.S. ban of Syrian and Iraqi refugees?

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 @ 2 p.m. on WCLM1450AM streaming LIVE @ TanyaFree.com and BlackTalkRadioNetwork.com.

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Urban Views Weekly | November 25, 2015

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A Simple Thank You It’s really easy to find ways to show your appreciation for friends and family members in the military. You can join an organization that sends care packages or plan a surprise party for a returning service member.

But a simple, sincere thank you can go a long way, too. It helps members of the military to know that their efforts are not going unrecognized, especially since being away from their friends and family members for long periods of time can be an emotionally stressful experience.

Write a Letter Think about all the things your friend or family member has sacrificed to protect your freedom. How does it make you feel? Proud?

Happy? Both?

One of the best ways to convey this is by putting it in words. Send your special military member a hand-written note or collection of notes this holiday season.

You also can involve other members of the family in pulling off a special note salute. Have everyone who knows the military member write a sentence or two about how they’re feeling. Send them all together for a meaningful gift.

Make a Video Think of a wedding video in which various friends and members of the family send the special couple good wishes. You can apply the same method to creating a video for your special service member.

Start with friends and family members, but then branch out to others who are willing to participate. Co-workers, past teachers and past bosses are all great sources to add to your video.

Give your sources a few weeks to prepare what they will say on the video. Ask them to share any stories and be as 6

Urban Views Weekly | November 25, 2015

Give thanks women and f sacrifice to k

long-winded as they like. You can always go back and edit the video before showing it.

First Holiday Deployment

Is this your first holiday season being away from a friend or family member in the military? It can be a trying experience for even the strongest of families.

There is the emotional and psychological disconnect that deployment can create, as well as the consequences felt by children. Maintaining a routine is key to making it through the deployment, and preparing what that routine will look like can be just as crucial.

Household Requirements If one person in your household typically takes responsibility for important finances or grocery shopping, make sure you adequately prepare the other for the role.

This will likely be an already stressful time. Try to make things easy by running through where all passwords are stored for billing accounts or what kinds of brands to avoid buying at the store. These may seem like minuscule issues, but routine means everything during a deployment.

Plan for Communication One of the toughest things about deployment is the uncertainty of when you will be able to connect over the phone or internet. Even though there may be some changes in the schedule from time to time, it is important to have a general plan set.

Choose a time that works best for talking over the phone and a schedule of how often you will be able to talk.

If letters and emails are easier, let each other know if routines change so an unanswered email or text doesn’t cause major concern or worry.

Cope with Stress For both the soldier and the ones left behind, a deployment can cause emotional challenges. If you’re having trouble adjusting to this transition, consider reaching out to those around you for support.

There are support groups you can join, which will help you meet people struggling with the same issues.

Professional counseling also can be a great way of identifying and dealing with the most challenging matters at hand.

Tips for an In-Person Salute If possible, the greatest way to give your military friend or family member a holiday salute is to travel to them.

Flying over the holidays seems to cost more and more every year. The average domestic airfare for the weeks of

to the men, families who keep us free

Day — all slower travel days in major airports.

Connecting Flights

Not always the best option because of the threat of being stuck in an icy location, booking a flight that includes one stop can save you some serious money. If flying nonstop isn’t crucial to you and your schedule, you could save more than $100 with this strategy.

Again, major airport delays can cause a holiday headache, so be sure to plan ahead. Analyze upcoming forecasts for the cities you’ll be in and make your decision based on what kind of weather looks to be in the area.

Around There are a number of ways to shop for great flight rates this holiday season. You can check in with your local travel agency, or use an online portal to source and secure a great deal.

The key is keeping your eyes open and not settling for expensive tickets too early in your search. Patience will likely pay off if you’re open to adjusting your plan as your search dictates.

Trees for Troops Thanksgiving and Christmas is $383, according to travel site Expedia. On peak travel days around the holidays, airlines generally charge more in order to make up for the lack of business travelers on those days. And higher rates can be cost-prohibitive for a family on a set vacation budget, especially around the holidays.

If you find an affordable fare early in your search, your best bet may be to scoop it up.

Be flexible

What better way to brighten a day than to send a real Christmas tree? Last year, Trees for Troops provided them to more than 18,000 military families and troops across the world.

The organization has delivered nearly 200,000 trees since its 2005 inception and uses FedEx to deliver to more than 60 military bases in the United States and overseas.

If your schedule allows, why not add a few days to your trip? Doing so can help you save money before or after peak travel days. It is during these off times that airlines will offer big discounts on their tickets and lodging packages with local hotels.

Every year, volunteers help organize, box and load thousands of trees that are shipped to United States armed forces members in all branches of the military and their families.

Also consider flying on holidays, such as Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day or the early morning of New Year’s

Members of the National Christmas Tree Association and many state and regional Christmas tree associations

take on this project as a way to show their appreciation for those who serve in our military. The organization provides free, farm-grown trees that are of the highest quality.

Show Your Support At the beginning of December, the annual Trees for Troops Weekend takes place across the country.

Community members can donate funds or visit the 30 farms and retail locations in the United States that host FedEx trailers during the special time period. Consider making it a family event to get involved in this effort and teach even the youngest members of your family how important it is to show our gratitude.

Help Needed Year-Round Trees for Troops is part of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, a nonprofit group that relies on donations from the public to successfully deliver this large amount of trees. You can support Trees for Troops through your tax-deductible donation or by becoming a sponsor.

Check out www.christmasspiritfoundation.org for more information on the Trees for Troops program and to find out ways you can help keep the program running.

The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation was awarded the Best in America seal of excellence by the Independent Charities of America. In 2012, Trees for Troops was honored at the White House as a top-20 national finalist in the Joining Forces Community Challenge, which was started by First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden.

Military Family Appreciation Members of the military deserve our utmost respect and reverence throughout the year — not just at the holidays. The same goes for their families.

Each year the president signs a proclamation declaring November Military Family Month. This annual acknowledgment marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of the military family, which sacrifices so much to help ensure our overall safety and freedom. It is www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

7

The Deal

By Nathaniel Sillin

Think Twice About Spending That Bonus When is a bonus not a bonus? When you fail to think about what that extra income will mean to your overall finances.

I don’t mean to spoil the fun. Bonuses, particularly if they recognize your great performance during the year, are rewarding in a number of ways beyond money. It means your work is being noticed and you might rise higher in the organization – always a good thing.

However, in many organizations, bonus compensation has developed and transformed to a new entity, very different from how it was a generation ago. So before you book your dream trip to an exotic beachfront resort, take a closer look.

According to human resources and management consulting firm Aon Hewitt, (www.aon.com/human-capital-consulting/), some 90 percent of employers have either implemented or are considering something called “variable pay systems” that mean a greater reliance on “incentives, bonuses and cash awards,” to reward high-performing employees.

Ask questions. Read any paperwork that accompanies your bonus information, write down questions and take them to your employer’s designated human resource representative or manager directly.

Be practical, but don’t forget the fun. Consider treating your bonus like your paycheck – evaluate what essential needs should be addressed first and figure out what you can spend for fun.

Be practical, but don’t forget the fun.

Employers are signing on because it helps them slow the growth of overall payroll, which is the biggest fixed cost in any business. It also offers a way to boost performance among workers at all levels.

What do one-time bonuses or a conversion to a variable-pay system mean for you? Potentially, this could result in changes to your tax situation, the overall value of your employer- and government-based benefits and, therefore, your long-term financial picture. Here are some questions to ask: What kind of bonus is it? Make sure you understand whether a bonus is a one-time award or a shift to an ongoing bonus system. This is a money and a career question. If you are going to be evaluated under new benchmarks and measurements for work you’ve done every day, you should fully understand these new guidelines and how you can maximize them in your best interest.

Get qualified advice. A one-time bonus or a long-term change in the way you’re being compensated is an important financial event. Consider speaking with a qualified financial planner or tax expert about any bonus news you receive and see how they think you should handle the money. Keep in mind that the Internal Revenue Service generally considers bonuses as supplemental wages that can be taxed at a higher rate. Check IRS Publication 15 for more detail. Keep in mind that your salary level – not extra money you get 8

from bonuses or other incentives – provides the basis for calculating your employee benefits and what a lender might offer for mortgages or other credit. In some cases, it might be better to save or invest that bonus than to spend it outright.

Urban Views Weekly | November 25, 2015

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Bottom line: The way workers are being paid is changing. It’s important to understand how one-time or annual bonuses might affect your long-term finances.

Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs. To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ PracticalMoney.

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From Appreciation page 7

a fitting recognition in the heart of the holiday season. The Department of Defense and the nation come together every November to show their appreciation in many ways. And it’s never too late to join in or make your own celebration to convey your gratitude.

What to Send

Make Your Own Celebration

All of these items are OK to ship and will offer your military member a special connection to memories of home. These memories can help push them through the difficult times of a deployment.

If you could send anything at all to your favorite service member, what would it be? Something personalized, such as a photo collection or letters?

How about their favorite homemade foods?

If there isn’t an event set up in your area, work with your local military organization to launch one. Contact a local union hall or VFW to ask about renting space for your event.

What Not to Send

You also can build relationships with local business owners by asking for donations.

Military families will be honored by your efforts to make the holiday season special for them.

Military Care Packages One of the best ways to send out a holiday salute to your friends or family members in the military is through a thoughtful care package.

Maybe you have a loved one serving overseas. Maybe you’re part of a holiday care package giving organization. Either way, if you’re new to sending one, there are some requirements you should be aware of to make sure it gets there safely.

You should be selective about exactly which items you plan on sending overseas. There are customs issues and security regulations that must be considered when it comes to shipping packages to members of the military.

www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

Even though any item you send would surely be appreciated, there are some things to avoid including in your holiday care package.

Anything breakable probably should be saved for when they return home. Picture your package on its route to your service member — shipped from truck to truck before heading off on an international flight, and then being shipped from truck to truck again.

Fragile items are not cut out for this route. Keep things simple by including only unbreakable items in your care package.

How to Send It One of the most challenging aspects of shipping a military care package can be filling out the customs forms required for compliant shipment.

If you’re using an organization that specializes in sending military care packages, it too may have specific requirements for shipment. The key is checking in with your local post office and care package organization to find out the details.

Urban Views Weekly | November 25, 2015

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Scholar of the Week

By Janeal Downs One night when Ahmed Woodson was about 10 years old, the night sky was abnormally clear. “I could see so many stars, so many constellations, and as a kid you’re just curious?” Woodson said. Interested in learning more about what was up there and who were the people who learned about it, he began to research. His research brought him to the career of an astronaut and he knew from that moment, that was what he wanted to do. From there the idea stuck, and since then he has wanted to go into Outer Space, and potentially to Mars. His goal is to one day work for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Woodson enjoys the competitive environment of sports. “Engaging in athletic activity is one of my favorite things to do,” Woodson wrote in an essay. “Pushing myself, testing my limits; bidding my will against that of another’s, captivated me.” While he enjoys the competitive environment of athletics, he also likes science, math, creative writing and his favorite subject is history.

Woodson said he tries to not take life too seriously and described himself as “insanely funny” and a complex, people person. “I don’t believe that I really fit into any of the stereotypical high school cliques, such as the In order to achieve his goal, Woodson said “jocks” or the “nerds,” he stated. “My personality that college is the next stepping stone to is very open-minded and amenable to other becoming an astronaut. He plans to first viewpoints.” He said his academic, athletic ™ ek receive a Bachelor’s degree in aerospace and personality characteristics are all diverse. of the We engineering with a minor in business and also Other than sports and academics, his favorite receive a Master’s degree in the same field. things to do include spending time with his His top college of choice is the University of family and volunteering. “I like to give people Maryland at College Park. “With Maryland I felt as though people were the blessings that were blessed upon me,” Woodson said about why open and welcoming and I really enjoyed that,” Woodson said. He was he enjoys giving back and volunteering. He has been involved with a attracted to the school because of its great aerospace engineering program variety of organizations such as the Technology Student Association, and the culture of the university, which he described as open and warm the Leader’s Club at the YMCA, the Key Club, the National Honor atmosphere; the diversity on campus; its proximity to Washington, D.C. Society, the National Technical Honor Society and more. With all of his Being close to D.C. will give him the opportunity to meet people from extracurricular activities, he currently maintains a 4.5 cumulative GPA. other colleges and network. The school also has a partnership with NASA Woodson said his mother is one of the most influential people in his which will work in his favor. life. “I see how hard she works to make sure that I have everything and He is also interested in the university because of their D1 sports status. that everything is working in the household,” Woodson said about why Outside of school, one of Woodson’s favorite things to do is play she inspires him. “It makes me want to work hard and make it so we basketball. He currently plays as the shooting guard, but also plays as don’t have to work as hard in the future.” With his goal of becoming an point guard when needed. Other than basketball he runs Cross Country, astronaut and working for NASA, Woodson also hopes to create a better Indoor/Outdoor Track and recently began playing Tennis and Volleyball. life for everyone around him.

Scholar0

Ahmed Woodson of Thomas Jefferson High School GPA: 4.5 College of Interest: University of Maryland at College Park Major Community Service: Special Olympics of Virginia, Atlantic Outreach Group, Key Club, etc.

Strong Interests: Aerospace Engineering, Sports Favorite Activities: Play basketball, volunteer, spending time with family

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Urban Views Weekly | November 25, 2015

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Ask your HVAC contractor to perform annual checkups to verify that the unit is running at peak efficiency.

Apartment Referral Services Policy Apartment referral service companies sell lists of available apartments for rent in your area. Please read contracts thoroughly to ensure that you understand and agree to all the terms and the cancellation policy of the contract.

APARTMENTS UNFURN. BEULAH ROAD - AFFORDABLE 1 bdrm apts, all electric. Some utilities included, very nice, $510.

FREE MONTH’S RENT Low security deposit 804-271-1220 FREE MONTH RENT CHAMBERLAYNE AVE. Spacious efficiency, 1 & 2 bdrm apts.

Come join our established apt. community. Busline. Newly redecorated.

C/A. Parking, laundry facilities. Quiet area. No application fee. Work w/ problem credit. Starting at $395 for 1 bdrm/ $550 for 2 bdrm. ASK about 1 MONTH RENT FREE. 804-329-6249 or 271-1220 ZACHARIAS BROS. OIL. MAISONETTE APARTMENTS 6745 Jefferson Davis Highway 1 bdrm., A/C, util. incl., $190/wk.

804-275-7355. www.richmondmaisonettes.com

Sell it fast and easy with a low-cost classified ad.

Call 649.6868

With these tips, you can choose a reliable HVAC business that will help you for years to come.

Barky’s Spiritual Stores

10% Discount on Thursdays for New Customers

The HVAC company shouldn’t use the old unit to determine the proper size of a new one. If your old unit was inadequate, you will want to install a unit that is a different size. Speak with your HVAC installer to determine the right size and model for you.

Residential for Rent

18 East Broad Street | Richmond, VA 23219

It’s yard sale time!

Advertise yours!

Call 649.6868

Honoring God... Serving People Open: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, & Sat. Closed: Wed. & Sun

Gospel CD’s, Clergy Shirts, Hymnals Bibles Celebration Communion Sets, Tambourines We Ship Anywhere... We’re as close as a phone

804-643-1987 | barkystores@yahoo.com

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Urban Views Weekly | November 25, 2015

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NO PREP. ALL PARTY! party platters & trays for any gathering, large or small

ORDERING IS EASY ONLINE at MartinsFoods.com IN-STORE at any fresh department PHONE by calling 888-442-6812

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Urban Views Weekly | November 25, 2015

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