Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Councilwoman Robertson to hold Special Community Meeting in the Gateway 6th District

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Wednesday, 30 March 2011

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson to hold Special Community Meeting in the Gateway 6th District

All Gateway 6th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District, will host a special community meeting in the Gateway 6th District. This is in addition to the regular meetings she typically holds on the second Saturday of each month, which include information on her Gateway 6th District goals and accomplishments; a thematic agenda of current interest; and, special guests. All Gateway 6th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Free refreshments will be served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting will include:

Presentations
• Highland Park Becomes A Community Of Choice for Youth and Young Adults
• Master Plan for Ann Hardy Park
• Safe Community Strategy
• Putting a STOP to Illegal Rooming Houses

Information
• Jobs and Work Force
• Early Summer Camp and Activities Registration
• Neighborhood Crime Report

WHEN Wednesday, 6 April, 2011
5:00-6:30 p.m.

WHERE Ann Hardy Community Center
3300 First Avenue
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Cybelle O’Sullivan-McDanniels, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District, at 804.646.7964 (office) or cybelle.o’sullivan@richmondgov.com; www.ellenrobertson.com (website)


- E N D -







______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Councilwoman Robertson invites residents to attend Eastview Neighborhood Planning Forum Meeting

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Wednesday, 30 March 2011

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson invites residents to attend Eastview Neighborhood Planning Forum Meeting

All Eastview Neighborhood and Gateway 6th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District, invites all residents to attend the upcoming Eastview Neighborhood Planning Forum Meeting. The meeting is for interested property owners, residents, and business owners to participate in the development of an action plan for the Eastview Neighborhood area. This Planning forum is the first step in a collaborative process to produce a roadmap for the Eastview Neighborhood which can be used to help guide future development.

The action plan will focus on identifying, prioritizing, and developing implementation strategies for critical issues affecting the area. The issues to be considered may range from those related to the physical environment, such as addressing blighted housing and improving poorly maintained public property, to those related to human development and behavior, such as providing support systems for families and increasing police presence.

The area to be included within the Eastview Neighborhood Action Plan include the area generally bounded by U.S. Interstates 64 and 95 on the north and west, the Mechanicsville Turnpike and Mosby Street corridor on the east, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Bridge on the south.

Participant will include: Eastview Civic League, Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority, and City of Richmond government departments.

WHEN Saturday, April 2, 2011
1:00-3:30 p.m.

WHERE Conrad Center - Multi-purpose Room
1400 Oliver Hill Way
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District; Bryon Marshall, Richmond Chief Administrative Officer, City of Richmond

CONTACT For more information, please contact Cybelle O’Sullivan-McDanniels, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District, at 804.646.7964 (office) or cybelle.o’sullivan@richmondgov.com; www.ellenrobertson.com (website)

- E N D -







______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Event Date Changed: Historic unveiling of 17 Richmond Slave Trail Markers moved to Sunday, April 10, 2011

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Tuesday, 29 March 2011

Event Date Changed: Historic unveiling of 17 Richmond Slave Trail Markers moved to Sunday, April 10, 2011

All Citizens invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT
(Richmond, Virginia) – The previously announced date of the “An Emancipation Celebration & Unveiling of the Richmond Slave Trail Markers” event has been changed and postponed for one week. The new date is Sunday, April 10, 2011.

The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission and the City of Richmond will hold an historic event entitled “An Emancipation Celebration & Unveiling of the Richmond Slave Trail Markers”. During the event, 17 Richmond Slave Trail Markers will be unveiled. These markers are located throughout the Shockoe Bottom area of Richmond and mark sites that help tell the historic journey, human impact, and the role Richmond played in the tragic history of slavery.

The keynote speaker will be The Honorable Dwight C. Jones, Mayor of Richmond. The event is free and open to the public and all Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Free onsite parking is available.

This is another successful major project of the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, the City of Richmond, and many partners in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. Speakers and guests attending include:

• The Honorable Robert F. McDonnell, Governor of Virginia
• The Honorable Dwight C. Jones, Mayor of Richmond
• The Honorable Members of Richmond City Council
• Members of the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission
• Other Elected Officials Will Be In Attendance

Partners in the project have included the: Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, Richmond Department of Economic Development, Venture Richmond and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.

WHEN Sunday, April 10, 2011
3:00-5:00 p.m.

WHERE Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archeological Site
1500 E. Franklin Street
(Located in Northwest parking lot of Richmond Main Street Train Station
15th & Franklin Streets - bordered by E. Broad Street
In Richmond's Historic Shockoe Bottom - Right below I-95 to the east)

WHO The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District,

CONTACT For more information regarding the Richmond Slave Trail Commission, please contact The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, at 804.698.1070, or deldmcquinn@house.virginia.gov

Background _________________________________________________________________________

Slavery
The Richmond Slave Trail Markers will serve to recognize the regrettable time in our history when parts of the United States allowed the enslavement of fellow human beings and an estimated 8 percent of U.S. families owned slaves just before the U.S. Civil War. The site of the event and location of one of the 17 markers, Lumpkin's Slave Jail was the largest slave-holding facility in operation in Richmond, Virginia from 1840 until the end of the U.S. Civil War in 1865. During that time, Richmond was home to the largest domestic slave export business in the United States. The Confederate Army surrendered Richmond, the Capital of the Confederacy, on April 3, 1865.

Following shortly after the end of the U. S. Civil War, which ended in Virginia on April 9, 1865, the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States of America Constitution was adopted on December 6, 1865. This amendment officially abolished slavery. A precursor for this amendment was the Emancipation Proclamation, an Executive Order signed by President Abraham Lincoln, on January 1, 1863, which proclaimed the freedom of slaves living in states under Confederate control.

Lumpkin’s Slave Jail
Lumpkin's Slave Jail was the largest slave holding facility in operation in Richmond, Virginia from 1840 until the end of the U.S. Civil War in 1865. During that time, Richmond was home to the largest domestic slave export business in the United States. Owned by Robert Lumpkin, the jail was a place that tens of thousands of African men, women and children were "stored" before being transported to slave owners living in states where slavery was legal. Following Lumpkin's death shortly after the Civil war, his common law widowed wife Mary Lumpkin, who was African-American, inherited the estate. In 1867, she leased the jail to Reverend Nathaniel Colver, who established a school for freed slaves at the site. Founded by the American Baptist Home Missionary Society and the National Theological Institute, the school grew into what is now Virginia Union University.

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission
The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission is a government entity that was established by Richmond City Council in 1998 by Resolution Number 98-R 102-107, as amended by Resolution Number 2004-R125-131. The Commission includes 17 members that are appointed by Council to serve for three year terms. Membership includes at least one member of Council (who is given first option of serving as Chairman) and three members of the Hope in the Cities of Richmond organization.

Since its creation, the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission has worked to help preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. Over the years, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission projects have included:

• 2009
Development of the conceptual Richmond National Slavery Museum
Richmond City Council provides annual staff assistance and financial support for the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission. Council staff support includes providing fiscal management, public information, writing, publication creation, graphic design, special event and project management, promotions and fundraising. Additional staff support is provided by the Richmond City Administration through the Richmond Department of Economic Development, which includes project engineering and management.

• 2009
Development of the Richmond Slave Trail Marker Program, Signage and
Commemorative Site: Lumpkin’s Slave Jail

• 2008
Discovery of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail historic foundation and architectural
artifacts.

• 2008 – 2009
Phase II Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment: which
included engineering and storm water engineering

• 2007
Richmond International Unveiling of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue,
erected in 2007 at 15th and E. Main Streets. Included design and construction of
the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statute plaza and erection of the statue.

• 2006
Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment

• 2003
Acquisition of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Monday, March 28, 2011

Richmond City Council Launches new Richmond Sister Cities Commission Website

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday 25 March 2011

Richmond City Council Launches new Richmond Sister Cities Commission Website

Includes information regarding work and ongoing projects

(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A) – Richmond City Council today announces the launch of the new Richmond Sister Cities Commission website. The website includes information regarding the work and ongoing projects of the Richmond Sister Cities Commission. The new site is located http://www.richmondgov.com/CommissionSisterCities/index.aspx and is linked from the Richmond City Council website (from the bottom left), at www.council.richmondva.gov

CONTACT For more information regarding the Richmond Sister Cities Commission, please contact Ms. My Lan Tran, Chairman, Richmond Sister Cities Commission, at 804.646.6046 or my.lan.tran@richmondgov.com (email)

Background _______________________________________________________________________
The Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission was established by Richmond Council in 1980. The Commission operates under Council guidelines provided and by requirements of the Sister Cities International organization, located in Washington, D.C.

An early champion of international relations, Richmond began a relationship with its namesake, Richmond Upon Thames, England, in 1930. In 1956 a formal Sister City concept was established in the United States of America by U. S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. President Eisenhower's idea called for exchanges between Americans and people in other countries, with a goal of fostering peace, understanding and harmony.

The term “Sister City” is used to express a closeness that is engendered through commonalities between communities. Formal friendships are then established to promote cultural understanding and educational and economic prosperity.

For example, cities linked with Richmond are generally capital cities with comparable populations, notable points of historic interest, and potential opportunities for economic development and trade.

Globally, there are more than 2,400 Sister City partnerships in 134 countries. Nineteen Virginia cities represent approximately 50 of those partnerships. This includes seven in Richmond.

Richmond Sister City Relationships
Richmond currently maintains the following Sister City relationships:
1. Richmond upon Thames, England (Europe)
2. Saitama City, Japan (Asia)
3. Olsztyn, Poland (Eastern Europe)
4. Uijeongbu, South Korea (Asia)
5. Windhoek, Namibia (Africa)
6. Zhengzhou, China (Asia)
7. Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa)

Interest
Throughout the year, Richmond City Council receives requests from citizens and interested cities regarding its Sister Cities Program, which are shared with the Commission.

Recent Sister Cities Activities _____________________________________________________________

Republic of Mali
Richmond’s partnership with Segou is our city’s newest Sister City relationship. Richmond and Segou became Sister Cities in 2009 following the adoption of Richmond City Council Resolution 2009-R99-109, adopted July 27, 2009 that invited Segou to be a formal Sister City of Richmond, and the formalization of the relationship in Richmond on October 12, 2009 with a visiting delegation of dignitaries from Segou.

In April 2010 Richmond was awarded a $115,000 grant from Sister Cities International for a two-year African Sustainability Project that will be used to assist with performing projects in Segou that will assist with addressing sanitation, health, and water issues. On May 10, 2010 Richmond City Council received and welcomed a visiting delegation from the Republic of Mali. The delegation included six members of the country’s government who were in Richmond for the day as part of a government training program sponsored by the Institute for Global Training, USAID in Washington D.C. and were being show state and local government by the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center’s Virginia Institute of Government.

On October 6, 2010 the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission and members of Richmond City Council and the Richmond Government Administration welcomed The Honorable Ousmane K. Simaga, Mayor of Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa); The Honorable Madani Sissoko, Councilman, Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa), President of the Segou Sister City Commission; and, a number of additional dignitaries from Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa), during its monthly meeting.

Richmond upon Thames
2008 visit from the Mayor and Councilmember's to Richmond; 2007 visit of Mayor and Councilmembers. Coordinated planning and events leading up to Virginia’s 400th-year celebration in 2007.

Zhenghou, China
Continue supporting teacher exchanges and exchanges of art and culture through museums, economic trips to China (conducted by Governor of Virginia with representation from Richmond). A book collection was presented to Richmond citizens from Zhengzhou citizens, which is displayed at the City’s Main Library.

Saitama, Japan
Annual student, academic, sports and cultural exchange programs.

Windhoek, Namibia
August 2007: the U.S. State Department brought a camera crew to Richmond from Windhoek coordinated events. July 2003: Richmond donated a Fire Truck to Windhoek.

Uijeongbu, South Korea
Includes relationships with the Richmond Korean community and business exchange as well as educational and cultural programs.


The Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission consists of 13 members, of whom at least one is a Councilmember. Commission members are appointed by Richmond City Council for a term consisting of three years and no person appointed is eligible to serve more than two successive terms, although persons appointed to fill vacancies may serve two additional successive terms. Members appointed to the Commission are required to either reside or work in the City of Richmond. Originally comprised of 19 members, in 2009 Richmond Sister Cities Commission (SCC) was lowered to 13 members.


# # # #


______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Richmond City Council Launches new Richmond Sister Cities Commission Website

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday 25 March 2011

Richmond City Council Launches new Richmond Sister Cities Commission Website

Includes information regarding work and ongoing projects

(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A) – Richmond City Council today announces the launch of the new Richmond Sister Cities Commission website. The website includes information regarding the work and ongoing projects of the Richmond Sister Cities Commission. The new site is located http://www.richmondgov.com/CommissionSisterCities/index.aspx and is linked from the Richmond City Council website (from the bottom left), at www.council.richmondva.gov

CONTACT For more information regarding the Richmond Sister Cities Commission, please contact Ms. My Lan Tran, Chairman, Richmond Sister Cities Commission, at 804.646.6046 or my.lan.tran@richmondgov.com (email)

Background _______________________________________________________________________
The Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission was established by Richmond Council in 1980. The Commission operates under Council guidelines provided and by requirements of the Sister Cities International organization, located in Washington, D.C.

An early champion of international relations, Richmond began a relationship with its namesake, Richmond Upon Thames, England, in 1930. In 1956 a formal Sister City concept was established in the United States of America by U. S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. President Eisenhower's idea called for exchanges between Americans and people in other countries, with a goal of fostering peace, understanding and harmony.

The term “Sister City” is used to express a closeness that is engendered through commonalities between communities. Formal friendships are then established to promote cultural understanding and educational and economic prosperity.

For example, cities linked with Richmond are generally capital cities with comparable populations, notable points of historic interest, and potential opportunities for economic development and trade.

Globally, there are more than 2,400 Sister City partnerships in 134 countries. Nineteen Virginia cities represent approximately 50 of those partnerships. This includes seven in Richmond.

Richmond Sister City Relationships
Richmond currently maintains the following Sister City relationships:
1. Richmond upon Thames, England (Europe)
2. Saitama City, Japan (Asia)
3. Olsztyn, Poland (Eastern Europe)
4. Uijeongbu, South Korea (Asia)
5. Windhoek, Namibia (Africa)
6. Zhengzhou, China (Asia)
7. Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa)

Interest
Throughout the year, Richmond City Council receives requests from citizens and interested cities regarding its Sister Cities Program, which are shared with the Commission.

Recent Sister Cities Activities _____________________________________________________________

Republic of Mali
Richmond’s partnership with Segou is our city’s newest Sister City relationship. Richmond and Segou became Sister Cities in 2009 following the adoption of Richmond City Council Resolution 2009-R99-109, adopted July 27, 2009 that invited Segou to be a formal Sister City of Richmond, and the formalization of the relationship in Richmond on October 12, 2009 with a visiting delegation of dignitaries from Segou.

In April 2010 Richmond was awarded a $115,000 grant from Sister Cities International for a two-year African Sustainability Project that will be used to assist with performing projects in Segou that will assist with addressing sanitation, health, and water issues. On May 10, 2010 Richmond City Council received and welcomed a visiting delegation from the Republic of Mali. The delegation included six members of the country’s government who were in Richmond for the day as part of a government training program sponsored by the Institute for Global Training, USAID in Washington D.C. and were being show state and local government by the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center’s Virginia Institute of Government.

On October 6, 2010 the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission and members of Richmond City Council and the Richmond Government Administration welcomed The Honorable Ousmane K. Simaga, Mayor of Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa); The Honorable Madani Sissoko, Councilman, Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa), President of the Segou Sister City Commission; and, a number of additional dignitaries from Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa), during its monthly meeting.

Richmond upon Thames
2008 visit from the Mayor and Councilmember's to Richmond; 2007 visit of Mayor and Councilmembers. Coordinated planning and events leading up to Virginia’s 400th-year celebration in 2007.

Zhenghou, China
Continue supporting teacher exchanges and exchanges of art and culture through museums, economic trips to China (conducted by Governor of Virginia with representation from Richmond). A book collection was presented to Richmond citizens from Zhengzhou citizens, which is displayed at the City’s Main Library.

Saitama, Japan
Annual student, academic, sports and cultural exchange programs.

Windhoek, Namibia
August 2007: the U.S. State Department brought a camera crew to Richmond from Windhoek coordinated events. July 2003: Richmond donated a Fire Truck to Windhoek.

Uijeongbu, South Korea
Includes relationships with the Richmond Korean community and business exchange as well as educational and cultural programs.


The Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission consists of 13 members, of whom at least one is a Councilmember. Commission members are appointed by Richmond City Council for a term consisting of three years and no person appointed is eligible to serve more than two successive terms, although persons appointed to fill vacancies may serve tow additional successive terms. Members appointed to the Commission are required to either reside or work in the City of Richmond. Originally comprised of 19 members, in 2009 Richmond Sister Cities Commission (SCC) was lowered to 13 members.


# # # #


______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Richmond City Council encourages Richmonders to donate to the Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross on behalf of the Japan Disaster Relie

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, 25 March 2011

Richmond City Council encourages Richmonders to donate to the Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross on behalf of the Japan Disaster Relief Fund

Money donated to the American Red Cross enables the agency to shelter, feed and clothe displaced victims

(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A) -- In the wake of the devastating effects of the earthquake that struck off the coast of Japan on March 11, 2011 and the ensuing tsunami and nuclear crisis that has greatly affected the country, Richmond City Council encourages Richmonders interested in assisting affected families to donate money to the Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross on behalf of the Japan Disaster Relief Fund.

Members of Richmond City Council express their compassion for the families affected by this tragedy and their hopes for an expeditious recovery and return to calm in their lives.

Money donated to the Disaster Relief Fund enables the American Red Cross to shelter, feed, and clothe displaced families. Richmond City Council also reminds citizens that in-kind donations such as food and clothing are costly to ship and require additional security, warehousing, staffing, and distribution resources.

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is provided free to recipients and is made possible through the kindness, care and donations of time and money by the American people.

Monetary donations may be mailed to the American Red Cross, Greater Richmond Chapter. P.O. Box 655, Richmond, Virginia 23261, by calling 804.780.2250 or by donating on-line, at www.greaterrichmond.redcross.org.

CONTACT For more information, please contact the Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross, at 804.780.2256.

BACKGROUND
The American Red Cross is an independent entity that is organized and exists as a nonprofit, tax-exempt, charitable institution pursuant to a charter granted to it by the United States Congress. Unlike other congressionally chartered organizations, the Red Cross maintains a special relationship with the federal government. It has the legal status of "a federal instrumentality," due to its charter requirements to carry out responsibilities delegated to it by the federal government. Among these responsibilities are:

• to fulfill the provisions of the Geneva Conventions, to which the United States is a signatory, assigned to national societies for the protection of victims of conflict,
• to provide family communications and other forms of support to the U.S. military, and,
• to maintain a system of domestic and international disaster relief, including mandated responsibilities under the National Response Plan coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
- e n d -


______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Historic unveiling of 17 Richmond Slave Trail Markers to be held

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 23 March 2011

Historic unveiling of 17 Richmond Slave Trail Markers to be held

All Citizens invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT
(Richmond, Virginia) – The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission and the City of Richmond will hold an historic event entitled “An Emancipation Celebration & Unveiling of the Richmond Slave Trail Markers”. During the event, 17 Richmond Slave Trail Markers will be unveiled. These markers are located throughout the Shockoe Bottom area of Richmond and mark sites that help tell the historic journey, human impact, and the role Richmond played in the tragic history of slavery.

The keynote speaker will be The Honorable Dwight C. Jones, Mayor of Richmond. The event is free and open to the public and all Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Free onsite parking is available.

This is another successful major project of the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, the City of Richmond, and many partners in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. Speakers and guests attending include:

• The Honorable Robert F. McDonnell, Governor of Virginia
• The Honorable Dwight C. Jones, Mayor of Richmond
• The Honorable Members of Richmond City Council
• Members of the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission
• Other Elected Officials Will Be In Attendance

Partners in the project have included the: Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, Richmond Department of Economic Development, Venture Richmond and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.

WHEN Sunday, April 3, 2011
3:00-5:00 p.m.

WHERE Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archeological Site
1500 E. Franklin Street
(Located in Northwest parking lot of Richmond Main Street Train Station
15th & Franklin Streets - bordered by E. Broad Street
In Richmond's Historic Shockoe Bottom - Right below I-95 to the east)

WHO The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District,

CONTACT For more information regarding the Richmond Slave Trail Commission, please contact The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, at 804.698.1070, or deldmcquinn@house.virginia.gov

Background _________________________________________________________________________

Slavery
The Richmond Slave Trail Markers will serve to recognize the regrettable time in our history when parts of the United States allowed the enslavement of fellow human beings and an estimated 8 percent of U.S. families owned slaves just before the U.S. Civil War. The site of the event and location of one of the 17 markers, Lumpkin's Slave Jail was the largest slave-holding facility in operation in Richmond, Virginia from 1840 until the end of the U.S. Civil War in 1865. During that time, Richmond was home to the largest domestic slave export business in the United States. The Confederate Army surrendered Richmond, the Capital of the Confederacy, on April 3, 1865.

Following shortly after the end of the U. S. Civil War, which ended in Virginia on April 9, 1865, the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States of America Constitution was adopted on December 6, 1865. This amendment officially abolished slavery. A precursor for this amendment was the Emancipation Proclamation, an Executive Order signed by President Abraham Lincoln, on January 1, 1863, which proclaimed the freedom of slaves living in states under Confederate control.

Lumpkin’s Slave Jail
Lumpkin's Slave Jail was the largest slave holding facility in operation in Richmond, Virginia from 1840 until the end of the U.S. Civil War in 1865. During that time, Richmond was home to the largest domestic slave export business in the United States. Owned by Robert Lumpkin, the jail was a place that tens of thousands of African men, women and children were "stored" before being transported to slave owners living in states where slavery was legal. Following Lumpkin's death shortly after the Civil war, his common law widowed wife Mary Lumpkin, who was African-American, inherited the estate. In 1867, she leased the jail to Reverend Nathaniel Colver, who established a school for freed slaves at the site. Founded by the American Baptist Home Missionary Society and the National Theological Institute, the school grew into what is now Virginia Union University.

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission
The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission is a government entity that was established by Richmond City Council in 1998 by Resolution Number 98-R 102-107, as amended by Resolution Number 2004-R125-131. The Commission includes 17 members that are appointed by Council to serve for three year terms. Membership includes at least one member of Council (who is given first option of serving as Chairman) and three members of the Hope in the Cities of Richmond organization.

Since its creation, the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission has worked to help preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. Over the years, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission projects have included:

• 2009
Development of the conceptual Richmond National Slavery Museum
Richmond City Council provides annual staff assistance and financial support for the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission. Council staff support includes providing fiscal management, public information, writing, publication creation, graphic design, special event and project management, promotions and fundraising. Additional staff support is provided by the Richmond City Administration through the Richmond Department of Economic Development, which includes project engineering and management.

• 2009
Development of the Richmond Slave Trail Marker Program, Signage and
Commemorative Site: Lumpkin’s Slave Jail

• 2008
Discovery of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail historic foundation and architectural
artifacts.

• 2008 – 2009
Phase II Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment: which
included engineering and storm water engineering

• 2007
Richmond International Unveiling of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue,
erected in 2007 at 15th and E. Main Streets. Included design and construction of
the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statute plaza and erection of the statue.

• 2006
Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment

• 2003
Acquisition of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Councilman Tyler invites residents to Kickoff Libbie/Grove/Patterson Planning Study at meeting in the West End 1st District

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 24 March 2011

Councilman Bruce W. Tyler invites residents to Kickoff Libbie/Grove/Patterson Planning Study at meeting in the West End 1st District

All citizens invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman, Richmond City Council, West End 1st District, invites all citizens to the kickoff meeting of the upcoming City of Richmond Libbie/Grove/ Patterson Planning Study, which will be performed by the Richmond Department of Planning and Review. The meeting is free and all citizens are invited and encouraged to attend.

The Kickoff meeting will provide the community with the opportunity to identify key issues and share ideas that will help guide the City of Richmond Libbie/Grove/ Patterson Planning Study as it proceeds. Examples of best practices and success stories of other cities and neighborhoods will also be presented.

The City of Richmond Libbie/Grove/ Patterson Planning Study area is to include the area generally bounded by Bromley Lane to the north, Grove Avenue to the south, Maple Avenue to the west, and Willow Lawn Drive to the east. The area has been surveyed to identify current conditions, such as land use, walkability and parking.

WHEN Saturday, 26 March 2011
9:00 a.m. - Noon

WHERE Richmond Public Schools - Mary Munford Elementary School - Auditorium
211 Westmoreland Street (Between Cary Street and Grove Avenue in Richmond’s West End 1st District)

WHO The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman
West End 1st District, Richmond City Council

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Bruce Tyler, at 804.357.6007; or bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com; or, Jennifer Walle, at 363.3442/jennifer.walle@richmondgov.com.


####







______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Councilwoman Cynthia I. Newbille to hold meeting in the East End 7th District

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Tuesday, 22 March 2011

Councilwoman Cynthia I. Newbille to hold meeting in the East End 7th District

Entire East End 7th District invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, East End 7th District, will hold a meeting in the East End 7th District. Councilwoman Newbille holds individual meetings in Richmond’s East End 7th District, throughout the year that include information on her goals and accomplishments; a topical agenda of current interest; and, special guests. These meetings are free and all East End 7th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Light refreshments are served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting will include:

Agenda

• 25th Street and Nine Mile Road/
East End 7th District Transformation Progress
Juanita Buster and Ashley Peace

• 2011 Virginia General Assembly Legislative Session Updates
The Honorable Jennifer L. McClellan, Delegate
Virginia House of Delegates, 71st District
The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate
Virginia House of Delegates, 70th District

• Stormwater Presentation

WHEN Tuesday, March 22, 2011
6:30-8:30 p.m.

WHERE Robinson Theatre
2903 Q Street
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman
Richmond City Council, East End 7th District

CONTACT For more information, please contact The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, East End 7th District, at 804.646.3012; or Cynthia.newbille@richmondgov.com.

- E N D -


______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Friday, March 18, 2011

Councilman Hilbert to hold meeting in Northside 3rd District: New Location - Pine Camp

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, March 18, 2011

Councilman Chris A. Hilbert to hold meeting in Northside 3rd District: New Location - Pine Camp

Entire Northside 3rd District invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert, Councilman, Richmond City Council Northside 3rd District, will hold a meeting in the Northside 3rd District. Councilman Hilbert holds individual meetings in Richmond’s Northside 3rd District throughout the year that include information on his goals and accomplishments; a topical agenda; and, special guests. These meetings are free and all Northside 3rd District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend.

The agenda and invited guests for this meeting include:

• 2011 Virginia General Assembly Legislative Session Updates
The Honorable Jennifer L. McClellan, Delegate
Virginia House of Delegates, 71st District

• Stormwater Presentation
James Minor, Richmond Department of Public Utilities

• 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Overview
Steve Skinner, Council Public Information Manager
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff

• Public Safety Report on the Northside 3rd District
Richmond Police Department 4th Precinct

WHEN Wednesday, March 23, 2011
6:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities
Pine Camp Community Center
4901 Old Brook Road

WHO The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Northside 3rd District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Chris A. Hilbert, at 804.646.6055 or chris.hilbert@richmondgov.com.


- E N D -






______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

10 Japanese High School Students to arrive in Richmond on Sunday

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, Virginia 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, 18 March 2011

10 Japanese High School Students to arrive in Richmond on Sunday

Public invited and encouraged to attend the Welcoming Ceremony - Academic exchange with Richmond Sister City – Saitama, Japan

WHAT Ten high school students and two teachers from Urawa Municipal High School in Saitama, Japan will arrive in Richmond on Sunday. They will be visiting the Richmond Area for a one week visit as part of a Richmond Sister Cities Commission student, academic, sports and cultural exchange program with Saitama, Japan. The education delegation will be the Richmond Area from Sunday, March 20 until Friday, March 25, 2011.

Partners for this exchange include the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission, Virginia Asian Foundation and the Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce.

WHEN Welcoming Ceremony
Sunday, March 20, 2011
2:30-3:30 p.m. (estimated time of arrival)

WHERE Chesterfield County Public Schools - Clover Hill High School
13301 Kelly Green Lane, Midlothian, Virginia 23112

CONTACT For more information, please contact Miss Catherine E. Nexsen, Chairman of the Japan-Richmond Committee of the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission, at 919.902.4704 (mobile); 804.355.2780 (home); 804.784.7630 (office)
or
Ms. My Lan Tran, Chairman, Richmond Sister Cities Commission, at 804.646.6046 or my.lan.tran@richmondgov.com (email)

Background _______________________________________________________________________
The Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission was established by Richmond Council in 1980. The Commission operates under Council guidelines provided and by requirements of the Sister Cities International organization, located in Washington, D.C. The Commission consists of 13 members, of whom at least one is a Councilmember. Commission members are appointed by Richmond City Council for a term consisting of three years and no person appointed is eligible to serve more than two successive terms, although persons appointed to fill vacancies may serve tow additional successive terms. Members appointed to the Commission are required to either reside or work in the City of Richmond. Originally comprised of 19 members, in 2009 Richmond Sister Cities Commission (SCC) was lowered to 13 members.

An early champion of international relations, Richmond began a relationship with its namesake, Richmond Upon Thames, England, in 1930. In 1956 a formal Sister City concept was established in the United States of America by U. S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. President Eisenhower's idea called for exchanges between Americans and people in other countries, with a goal of fostering peace, understanding and harmony.

The term “Sister City” is used to express a closeness that is engendered through commonalities between communities. Formal friendships are then established to promote cultural understanding and educational and economic prosperity.

For example, cities linked with Richmond are generally capital cities with comparable populations, notable points of historic interest, and potential opportunities for economic development and trade.

Globally, there are more than 2,400 Sister City partnerships in 134 countries. Nineteen Virginia cities represent approximately 50 of those partnerships. This includes seven in Richmond.

Richmond Sister City Relationships
Richmond maintains the following Sister City relationships:
1. Richmond upon Thames, England (Europe)
2. Saitama City, Japan (Asia)
3. Olsztyn, Poland (Eastern Europe)
4. Uijeongbu, South Korea (Asia)
5. Windhoek, Namibia (Africa)
6. Zhengzhou, China (Asia)
7. Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa)

Interest
Throughout the year, Richmond City Council receives requests from citizens and interested cities regarding its Sister Cities Program, which are shared with the Commission.

Recent Sister Cities Activities

Republic of Mali
Richmond’s partnership with Segou is our city’s newest Sister City relationship. Richmond and Segou became Sister Cities in 2009 following the adoption of Richmond City Council Resolution 2009-R99-109, adopted July 27, 2009 that invited Segou to be a formal Sister City of Richmond, and the formalization of the relationship in Richmond on October 12, 2009 with a visiting delegation of dignitaries from Segou.

In April 2010 Richmond was awarded a $115,000 grant from Sister Cities International for a two-year African Sustainability Project that will be used to assist with performing projects in Segou that will assist with addressing sanitation, health, and water issues. On May 10, 2010 Richmond City Council received and welcomed a visiting delegation from the Republic of Mali. The delegation included six members of the country’s government who were in Richmond for the day as part of a government training program sponsored by the Institute for Global Training, USAID in Washington D.C. and were being show state and local government by the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center’s Virginia Institute of Government.

On October 6, 2010 the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission and members of Richmond City Council and the Richmond Government Administration welcomed The Honorable Ousmane K. Simaga, Mayor of Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa); The Honorable Madani Sissoko, Councilman, Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa), President of the Segou Sister City Commission; and, a number of additional dignitaries from Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa), during its monthly meeting.

Richmond upon Thames
2008 visit from the Mayor and Councilmember's to Richmond; 2007 visit of Mayor and Councilmembers. Coordinated planning and events leading up to Virginia’s 400th-year celebration in 2007.

Zhenghou, China
Continue supporting teacher exchanges and exchanges of art and culture through museums, economic trips to China (conducted by Governor of Virginia with representation from Richmond). A book collection was presented to Richmond citizens from Zhengzhou citizens, which is displayed at the City’s Main Library.

Saitama, Japan
Annual student, academic, sports and cultural exchange programs.

Windhoek, Namibia
August 2007: the U.S. State Department brought a camera crew to Richmond from Windhoek coordinated events. July 2003: Richmond donated a Fire Truck to Windhoek.

Uijeongbu, South Korea
Includes relationships with the Richmond Korean community and business exchange as well as educational and cultural programs.


# # # #


______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Councilman Samuels has scheduled no meetings tonight regarding Monroe Park

Contrary to any misleading information being distributed, Councilman Charles Samuels, Richmond City Council, North Central 2nd District, has no meeting scheduled tonight regarding Monroe Park.

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 10 March 2011

Councilman Samuels has scheduled no meetings tonight regarding Monroe Park


WHAT
Contrary to any misleading information being distributed, Councilman Charles Samuels, Richmond City Council, North Central 2nd District, has no meeting scheduled tonight regarding Monroe Park.

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Charles Samuels, at 804.646.6532 or by email, at charles.samuels@richmondgov.com




- E N D -









______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Councilman Jewell to hold meeting in the Central 5th District

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Tuesday, 15 March 2011

Councilman Marty Jewell to hold meeting in the Central 5th District

Entire Central 5th District invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable E. Martin “Marty” Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District, will hold a meeting in the Central 5th District. Councilman Jewell holds individual meetings in Richmond’s Central 5th District throughout the year that include information on his goals and accomplishments; a topical agenda of current interest; and, special guests. These meetings are free and all Central 5th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Light refreshments are served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting will include:

Agenda

• Proposed Midlothian Turnpike/Roanoke Street
Traffic Calming Roundabout
Travis Bridewell, Richmond Department of Public Works

• Richmond City Stadium
The Honorable E. Martin “Marty” Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District

• 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Districting Redistricting
Steve Skinner, Council Public Information Manager
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff

• Mayor’s Participation, Action and Communication Team
Theressa Powell, Richmond Department of Public Works

• Stormwater Presentation
Gay Stokes and James Minor, Richmond Department of Public Utilities

WHEN Thursday, March 17, 2011
6:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Southside Community Service Center
4100 Hull Street
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable E. Martin Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council,
Central 5th District

CONTACT For more information, please contact The Honorable E. Martin Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District, at 804.646.5724, or marty.jewell@richmondgov.com

- E N D -



______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Councilman Jewell to hold meeting in the Central 5th District

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Tuesday, 15 March 2011

Councilman Marty Jewell to hold meeting in the Central 5th District

Entire Central 5th District invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable E. Martin “Marty” Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District, will hold a meeting in the Central 5th District. Councilman Jewell holds individual meetings in Richmond’s Central 5th District throughout the year that include information on his goals and accomplishments; a topical agenda of current interest; and, special guests. These meetings are free and all Central 5th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Light refreshments are served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting will include:

Agenda


Proposed Midlothian Turnpike/Roanoke Street
Traffic Calming Roundabout
Travis Bridewell, Richmond Department of Public Works

• Richmond City Stadium
The Honorable E. Martin “Marty” Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District

• 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Districting Redistricting
Steve Skinner, Council Public Information Manager
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff

• Mayor’s Participation and Communication Team
Theressa Powell, Richmond Department of Public Works

• Stormwater Presentation
Gay Stokes and James Minor, Richmond Department of Public Utilities

WHEN Thursday, March 17, 2011
6:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Southside Community Service Center
4100 Hull Street
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable E. Martin Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council,
Central 5th District

CONTACT For more information, please contact The Honorable E. Martin Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District, at 804.646.5724, or marty.jewell@richmondgov.com

- E N D -


______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Bill Strickland to share his vision on Career and Technical Education

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Tuesday, 15 March 2011

Bill Strickland to share his vision on Career and Technical Education

William E. Strickland, Jr., President & CEO, Manchester Bidwell Corporation to address Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission

WHAT The Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission will host William E. (Bill) Strickland, Jr., Founder, President and CEO of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, for a discussion on career and technical education.

Considered to be an expert in the field of career and technical education, Mr. Strickland was recently selected by U. S. President Barack H. Obama to serve on the White House Council for Community Solutions and the U.S. National Endowment for the Arts. Mr. Strickland is a MacArthur Fellowship Genus Award winner and the three-time subject of Harvard Business School case studies.

This meeting is free and open to the public and all members of the Greater-Richmond community are invited and encouraged to attend.

WHEN Thursday, March 17, 2011
1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond City Council Chambers
Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor
900 E. Broad Street, 3rd Floor
Richmond, Virginia 23219

WHO The Honorable Doug Conner, Councilman, Richmond City Council, South Central 9th District, and Chairman, Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission

CONTACT For more information, please contact The Honorable Doug Conner, Councilman, Richmond City Council, South Central 9th District, at 804.233.8288, or doug.conner@richmondgov.com.












Background on William E. Strickland, Jr.
William E. (Bill) Strickland, Jr. is the Founder, President and CEO of Manchester Bidwell Corporation and its subsidiaries, Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild (MCG) and Bidwell Training Center (BTC), founded in 1968 in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.

Mr. Strickland was recently selected by U. S. President Barack H. Obama to serve on the White House Council for Community Solutions and the U.S. National Endowment for the Arts. Mr. Strickland is a MacArthur Fellowship Genus Award winner and the three-time subject of Harvard Business School case studies. Mr. Strickland has completed the development of a new 40,000 sq. ft. production greenhouse, created for the development of Phalaenopsis orchids and hydroponics vegetables; a 70,000 sq. ft. medical technology complex, which has exceeded eight million dollars in value; and a 62,000 sq. ft. facility as a mortgage free asset for both MCG and BTC. The facilities include a 350-seat music/lecture hall, library, arts studios and labs, dining and meeting rooms, state-of-the-art award winning audio and video recording studios, serve as a demonstration site for Hewlett Packard and Steelcase equipment and are home to 25,000 Phalaenopsis orchids that are cultivated for wholesale distribution.

Please find the following video of Mr. Strickland at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_lSduJYbLo&feature=player_embedded

Background on the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission
Established by Richmond City Council on December 14, 2009 by Council Resolution number 2009-R166-194, the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission was born out of a Career and Technical Education Task Force organized in 2007 by Councilman Doug Conner. On November 28, 2007, Richmond City Council held a Richmond Regional Forum on Career and Technical Education that included presentations and discussions on model schools from around the country. Since that time the members of the Task Force and Commission have been holding regular organizational and planning meetings.

The goal of the Commission is to explore the development of career and technical education options for K-12th grade students, young adults, displaced workers and those reentering the workforce and to identify and review various existing career and technical education providers to determine which are employing “best practices” educational and training techniques and which might be the best model for Richmond. The Commission is to provide Richmond Public Schools with its final recommendations concerning the provision of career and technical education within 12 months of the final member being appointed to the Commission. Members of the Commission are still being appointed.

The Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission includes the following 21 members:

• A Member of the Richmond City Council Health, Human Services and Education Standing Committee, who shall serve as Chairman;
• A member of the Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees;
• A representative from the Richmond Public Schools Administration;
• A representative from the Richmond Public Schools Richmond Technical Center Advisory Board
• A representative from the Richmond Department of Economic Development
• A representative from the Greater Richmond Partnership;
• A representative from the Richmond Capital Regional Workforce Investment Board;
• A representative from the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), a federation of international labor unions.
• A representative from the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce;
• Ten at-large members who shall either be Richmond residents or operated businesses in the city; and
• Two members appointed by the Mayor by letter to the Richmond City Council Office of the City Clerk.

Richmond City Council has previously appropriated $75,000 to assist a study on the ways to enhance vocational and technical education options within the city of Richmond.

- E N D -



______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Councilman Bruce W. Tyler to hold meeting in the West End 1st District

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 10 March 2011

Councilman Bruce W. Tyler to hold meeting in the West End 1st District

Entire West End 1st District invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT
The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman, Richmond City Council, West End 1st District, will hold a meeting in the West End 1st District. Councilman Tyler holds individual meetings in Richmond’s West End 1st District throughout the year, typically at the same time and place, on the fourth Tuesday of every other month. His meetings include information on his goals and accomplishments, a thematic agenda of current interest and special guests. The meetings are free and all West End 1st District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. This meeting will include:

Agenda ____________________________________________________

• Discussion of enhanced speeding corridor on Patterson Avenue from Maple Avenue to Three Chopt Road

• Discussion of Richmond Real Estate Tax Collection

• Public Safety Report on the West End 1st District
Richmond Police Department 3rd Precinct

WHEN Tuesday, 22 March 2011
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Public Schools - Mary Munford Elementary School - Auditorium
211 Westmoreland Street (Between Cary Street and Grove Avenue in Richmond’s West End 1st District)

WHO The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman
West End 1st District, Richmond City Council

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Bruce Tyler, at 804.357.6007; or bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com; or, Jennifer Walle, at 363.3442/jennifer.walle@richmondgov.com.


####







______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Councilman Samuels cancels tonight’s meeting in the North Central 2nd District

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 10 March 2011

Councilman Samuels cancels tonight’s meeting in the North Central 2nd District

Meeting to be rescheduled to another date

WHAT Due to a number of illnesses, The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman, Richmond City Council, North Central 2nd District, has canceled his meeting scheduled for tonight in the North Central 2nd District. The meeting will be rescheduled to another date. Councilman Samuels holds individual meetings in Richmond’s North Central 2nd District throughout the year that include information on his goals and accomplishments; a topical agenda of current interest; and, special guests. These meetings are free and all North Central 2nd District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Light refreshments are served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting was to include:

Presentations

• Virginia General Assembly Update
The Honorable Jennifer L. McClellan, Delegate
Virginia House of Delegates 71st District

• Home Foreclosure Prevention
Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME)

• Community Gardens
Dr. Carolyn Graham, Richmond City Deputy Chief Administrative
Officer for Human Services and interim Director of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities

• Leaf and Trash Collection
Richmond Department of Public Works

WHEN CANCELED Thursday, March 10, 2011
6:00-7:30 p.m.

WHERE Retreat Doctor’s Hospital Classroom
2621 Grove Avenue
Parking is on the 3rd, 4th or 5th floor of the Retreat Doctor’s
Hospital Parking Deck
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman
Richmond City Council, North Central 2nd District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Jan Girardi, at 804.646.6532 or by email, at jan.girardi@richmondgov.com; or visit his personal website, at www.charlesrsamuels.com

- E N D -
______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Updated: Councilwoman Newbille and Delegate McQuinn invite entire community to “A Celebration of Emancipation” event: Lorenzo Hall to fill in for Sand

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Wednesday, 9 March 2011

Updated: Councilwoman Newbille and Delegate McQuinn invite entire community to “A Celebration of Emancipation” event: Lorenzo Hall to fill in for Sandra Jones as an Emcee

Entire Greater-Richmond Community invited and encouraged to attend event

WHAT The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, East End 7th District, and The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District; Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, invite everyone to attend the upcoming “ Celebration of Emancipation” event. The event is free and open to the public and the entire Greater-Richmond community is invited and encouraged to attend. Mr. Lorenzo Hall, Anchor/Reporter, WTVR TV-CBS TV6 will fill in for Ms. Sandra Jones, Anchor/Reporter, WTVR TV-CBS TV6 as an Emcee. The scheduled program for the event includes:

A Celebration of Emancipation
Emcees Mr. Lorenzo Hall, Anchor/Reporter, WTVR TV-CBS TV6
Ms. Clovia Lawrence, DJ, Kiss Radio, WKJS 105.7 FM

Guest Speaker Dr. Angelo Chatmon, Pastor and Director of Church Relations, Virginia Union University

A Special Community Forum: Where Are We Now?
Moderated By: Rev. Marcus Martin, Pastor, New Bridge Baptist Church and President of the Clergy Ministries, Baptist General Convention

Panelists
The Honorable Henry L. Marsh, Senator, Senate of Virginia, 16th District
Dr. Yvonne Brandon, Superintendent, Richmond Public Schools
Dr. Patricia Gould Champ, Pastor, Faith Community Baptist Church
Dr. Micah McCreary, Virginia Commonwealth University
Dr. Joseph W. Boatwright, M.D. Pediatrics Specialists
Ms. Jasmine Abrams, Virginia Commonwealth University
Mr. Timothy Glenn, Life Counselor, The Healing Place
Mr. Darrell Durrant, Music Producer

Entertainment Showcase
Leviticle Praise Singers
Treylene Usry, Poet
Vincent Lynch and Friends
God’s Image
Young Adult Praise Dancers from First African Baptist Church, Richmond, VA
“Foot Prints” Jazz Band
Teresa G as “Coretta Scott King”

Soul Food Dinner
Free “Fabulous Soul Food Dinner”

WHEN Saturday, March 12, 2011
1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Public Schools - Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School
1000 Mosby Street, Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District; Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission

The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, Member, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission

CONTACT For more information, please contact The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, Member, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, at 804.646.3012; or cynthia.newbille@richmodngov.com.

- end -

Richmond City Council - Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.5345 tel - www.council.richmondva.gov website






______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Councilwoman Newbille and Delegate McQuinn invite entire community to “A Celebration of Emancipation” event

The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, East End 7th District, and The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District; Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, invite everyone to attend the upcoming “ Celebration of Emancipation” event. The event is free and open to the public and the entire Greater-Richmond community is invited and encouraged to attend. The scheduled program for the event includes:


RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Tuesday, 8 March 2011

Councilwoman Cynthia I. Newbille and Delegate Delores L. McQuinn invite entire community to “A Celebration of Emancipation” event

Entire Greater-Richmond Community invited and encouraged to attend event

WHAT The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, East End 7th District, and The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District; Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, invite everyone to attend the upcoming “ Celebration of Emancipation” event. The event is free and open to the public and the entire Greater-Richmond community is invited and encouraged to attend. The scheduled program for the event includes:

A Celebration of Emancipation
Emcees Ms. Sandra Jones, Anchor/Reporter, WTVR TV-CBS TV6
Ms. Clovia Lawrence, DJ, Kiss Radio, WKJS 105.7 FM

Guest Speaker Dr. Angelo Chatmon, Pastor and Director of Church Relations, Virginia Union University

A Special Community Forum: Where Are We Now?
Moderated By: Rev. Marcus Martin, Pastor, New Bridge Baptist Church and President of the Clergy Ministries, Baptist General Convention

Panelists
The Honorable Henry L. Marsh, Senator, Senate of Virginia, 16th District
Dr. Yvonne Brandon, Superintendent, Richmond Public Schools
Dr. Patricia Gould Champ, Pastor, Faith Community Baptist Church
Dr. Micah McCreary, Virginia Commonwealth University
Dr. Joseph W. Boatwright, M.D. Pediatrics Specialists
Ms. Jasmine Abrams, Virginia Commonwealth University
Mr. Timothy Glenn, Life Counselor, The Healing Place
Mr. Darrell Durrant, Music Producer

Entertainment Showcase
Leviticle Praise Singers
Treylene Usry, Poet
Vincent Lynch and Friends
God’s Image
Young Adult Praise Dancers from First African Baptist Church, Richmond, VA
“Foot Prints” Jazz Band
Teresa G as “Coretta Scott King”

Soul Food Dinner
Free “Fabulous Soul Food Dinner”

WHEN Saturday, March 12, 2011
1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Public Schools - Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School
1000 Mosby Street, Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District; Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission

The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, Member, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission

CONTACT For more information, please contact The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, Member, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, at 804.646.3012; or cynthia.newbille@richmodngov.com.

- end -

Richmond City Council - Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.5345 tel - www.council.richmondva.gov website






______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Friday, March 4, 2011

Councilman Charles R. Samuels to hold meetings in the North Central 2nd District

The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman, Richmond City Council, North Central 2nd District, will hold a meeting in the North Central 2nd District. Councilman Samuels holds individual meetings in Richmond’s North Central 2nd District throughout the year that include information on his goals and accomplishments; a topical agenda of current interest; and, special guests. These meetings are free and all North Central 2nd District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Light refreshments are served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting will include:

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, 4 March 2011

Councilman Charles R. Samuels to hold meetings in the North Central 2nd District

Entire North Central 2nd District invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman, Richmond City Council, North Central 2nd District, will hold a meeting in the North Central 2nd District. Councilman Samuels holds individual meetings in Richmond’s North Central 2nd District throughout the year that include information on his goals and accomplishments; a topical agenda of current interest; and, special guests. These meetings are free and all North Central 2nd District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Light refreshments are served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting will include:

Presentations

• Virginia General Assembly Update
The Honorable Jennifer L. McClellan, Delegate
Virginia House of Delegates 71st District

• Home Foreclosure Prevention
Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME)

• Community Gardens
Dr. Carolyn Graham, Richmond City Deputy Chief Administrative
Officer for Human Services and interim Director of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities

• Leaf and Trash Collection
Richmond Department of Public Works

WHEN Thursday, March 10, 2011
6:00-7:30 p.m.

WHERE Retreat Doctor’s Hospital Classroom
2621 Grove Avenue
Parking is on the 3rd, 4th or 5th floor of the Retreat Doctor’s
Hospital Parking Deck
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman
Richmond City Council, North Central 2nd District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Jan Girardi, at 804.646.6532 or by email, at jan.girardi@richmondgov.com; or visit his personal website, at www.charlesrsamuels.com

- E N D -
______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson to hold meeting in the Gateway 6th District

The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District, will host a community meeting in the Gateway 6th District. This is part of the regular meetings she typically holds on the second Saturday of each month, which include information on her Gateway 6th District goals and accomplishments; a thematic agenda of current interest; and, special guests. All Gateway 6th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Free refreshments will be served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting will include:

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 3 March 2011

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson to hold meeting in the Gateway 6th District

All Gateway 6th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District, will host a community meeting in the Gateway 6th District. This is part of the regular meetings she typically holds on the second Saturday of each month, which include information on her Gateway 6th District goals and accomplishments; a thematic agenda of current interest; and, special guests. All Gateway 6th District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Free refreshments will be served. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for this meeting will include:

Presentations

• Outcomes & Next Steps of Shockoe Bottom Plan

• Status of Riverfront Development

• Stormwater Utility update

• Panhandling

• State Legislative Updates

WHEN Saturday, March 12, 2011
10:00 a.m. - Noon

WHERE Bank of America Building, 18th floor
11 East Main Street - 18th Floor
(located at 12th & Main Streets downtown)
Free Parking at James Center/Omni Hotel Cary Street Parking Deck.
(Parking coupon provided at meeting.)
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Cybelle O’Sullivan-McDanniels, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District, at 804.646.7964 (office) or ellen.robertson@richmondgov.com; or cybelle.o’sullivan@richmondgov.com; www.ellenrobertson.com (website)

- E N D -
______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission meeting to be held

The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission will hold a meeting regarding the work and ongoing projects of the Richmond Slave Trail Commission in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. The meeting is free and open to the public and all Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. The agenda for the meeting will include the following:


RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 3 March 2011

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission meeting to be held

All Citizens invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission will hold a meeting regarding the work and ongoing projects of the Richmond Slave Trail Commission in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. The meeting is free and open to the public and all Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. The agenda for the meeting will include the following:

• Welcome
• New Business
• Updates
• Committee Reports
• Closing Remarks/Adjournment

WHEN Thursday, 3 March 2011; 4:00-6:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond East District Initiative Building
701 N. 25th Street (In Richmond’s Historic East End)

WHO The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District,

The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, Member, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission

CONTACT For more information regarding the Richmond Slave Trail Commission, please contact The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond Slave Trail Commission at 804.698.1070, or deldmcquinn@house.virginia.gov
or
The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, Member, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, at 804.646.3012; or cynthia.newbille@richmodngov.com.

Background _________________________________________________________________________

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission
The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission is a government entity that was established by Richmond City Council in 1998 by Resolution Number 98-R 102-107, as amended by Resolution Number 2004-R125-131. The Commission includes 17 members that are appointed by Council to serve for three year terms. Membership includes at least one member of Council (who is given first option of serving as Chairman) and three members of the Hope in the Cities of Richmond organization.

Since its creation, the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission has worked to help preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. Over the years, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission projects have included:

• 2009
Development of the conceptual Richmond National Slavery Museum
Richmond City Council provides annual staff assistance and financial support for the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission. Council staff support includes providing fiscal management, public information, writing, publication creation, graphic design, special event and project management, promotions and fundraising. Additional staff support is provided by the Richmond City Administration through the Richmond Department of Economic Development, which includes project engineering and management.

• 2009
Development of the Richmond Slave Trail Marker Program, Signage and
Commemorative Site: Lumpkin’s Slave Jail

• 2008
Discovery of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail historic foundation and architectural
artifacts.

• 2008 – 2009
Phase II Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment: which
included engineering and storm water engineering

• 2007
Richmond International Unveiling of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue,
erected in 2007 at 15th and E. Main Streets. Included design and construction of
the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statute plaza and erection of the statue.

• 2006
Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment

• 2003
Acquisition of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue

Council financial support is provided through appropriations in the Richmond City Budget. This includes appropriations in the Richmond City Budget Capital Improvement Plan, Non-Departmental budgets and Departmental budgets. Funding is predicated on requests made by the Commission and as determined by Council.

Examples of Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission financial investment support, per Fiscal Year (FY), include:

• FY 2011- $6,000
For general Commission support

• FY 2010- $6,000
For general Commission support

• FY 2009 - $75,000
For general Commission support ($30,000 - spent $5,124) and for development of the Richmond Slave Trail Marker Program; signage and commemorative site; Lumpkin’s Slave Jail; development of conceptual National Slavery Museum; and, paid sponsorship for Symposium at the University of Richmond for the Civil War Sesquicentennial.

• FY 2008 - $370,000
For general Commission support ($30,000 - spent $7,748) and for Phase II of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment, which included $155,000 for earthmoving and $35,000 for engineering and stormwater engineering (floodplain and proximity to I-95 berm) and $150,000 for archaeological services to hire a vendor.

• FY 2007 - $511,000
For general Commission support ($11,000) and design and construction of the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statute plaza; erection of the statue; and, the International Unveiling of the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue

• FY 2006 - $35,000
For Richmond Slave Trail Brochure Creation/Printing Phase I of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment

• FY 2003 - $119,000
For acquisition (purchase) of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue and freight
from the United Kingdom

Additional financial, staff and archeological support has also been provided by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Alliance to Conserve Old Richmond Neighborhoods, and a number of corporate, nonprofit and individual financial sponsors.



______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
Office of the Chief of Staff
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
skinnesr@ci.richmond.va.us (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
______________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.