Richmond City Council: July 2012

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Councilmembers Jewell and Newbille invite Richmond families to register kids NOW for FREE Champions Youth Developmental Basketball Camp: For boys and girls, ages 9-13

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, 26 July 2012

Councilmembers Jewell and Newbille invite Richmond families to register kids NOW for FREE Champions Youth Developmental Basketball Camp: For boys and girls, ages 9-13

Limited Richmond slots open on first-come/first served-basis: Free camp for boys and girls, ages 9-13; Celebrating 6th-year in Richmond - 8th-year in Petersburg

WHAT (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- The Honorable Marty Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District, and The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, East End 7th District, invite Richmond families to register boys and girls, ages 9-13, now for the Champions Youth Developmental Basketball Camp being held July 30-August 3, 2012 in Richmond. This year marks the 6th successful year in Richmond (8th-year in Petersburg).

This week-long camp is free for youth (boys and girls) ages 9-13, and limited openings are available on a first-come/first-served basis.

Participants receive free breakfast and lunch, basketballs expert instruction, t-shirts, school supplies and awards. Each camp will include up to 100 students.

The Champions Youth Developmental Basketball Camp is being held in both Richmond and Petersburg, Virginia locations. Registration for the Petersburg camp has ended.

TO REGISTER Limited openings for Richmond camp are available on a first-come/first-served basis. Families interested in registering should contact:

Dr. Leon Wright Bey, Camp Director, at

804.536.6394 or lwbey@msn.com.

(Note: Pre-registration is required. Registration is for Richmond camp, the Petersburg camp is full.)

WHEN/ Richmond Camp to be held: Monday, July 30-Friday, August 3, 2012

WHERE 8:00 A.M. – NOON – Richmond Public Schools - Armstrong High School; 2300 Cool Lane, Richmond, Virginia 23223

Petersburg Camp full

Petersburg Camp to be held: Monday, July 30-Thursday, August 2, 2012

1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. - Petersburg High School; 3101 Johnson Road; Petersburg, Virginia 23805

CONTACT For more information (not registration), please contact Mike Pearson, President/ Founder, Friends Helping Friends, at 804. 405.4472, or Dr. Leon Wright Bey, Camp Director, at 804.536.6394, lwbey@msn.com (email).

BACKGROUND

Established by the nonprofit organization Friends Helping Friends, which is led by Founder/President, Mike Pearson, Champions Youth Developmental Basketball Camp (CDBC) began in Petersburg, Virginia in 2005 and focuses on holistic youth skills development and includes: Basketball, Academic, Life and Leadership (BALL) education.

CDBC is produced by the nonprofit organization, Friends Helping Friends, Petersburg Department of Parks and Leisure Services, and through the leadership of Director Tami Yerby, and Camp Director Dr. Leon Wright Bey of Virginia State University, who previously served as Virginia State University's (VSU) Women’s Basketball Coach and Athletic Director.

In addition to the support provided by a variety of sponsors, key to the success of these camps is the help of numerous high school and collegiate basketball coaches; current/former athletes, educators, administrators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, who serve as clinicians, motivational speakers, and support staff.

Assistance in bringing this camp to Richmond included, but was not limited to, support by The Honorable Marty Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District, The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, East End 7th District, Richmond Department of Parks and Recreation; Dr. Howard Hopkins, Athletic Director, Richmond City Public Schools' Armstrong High School (AHS); Darryl Watts, AHS Head Coach for Boys Basketball; former local high school and Virginia State University Head Football Coach, Lou Anderson; and Joyce Patterson, Owner, Richmond Elite Professional Basketball Team (ABA).

Important assistance was provided over the years by the (now) retired Athletic Director of Richmond City Public Schools' Armstrong High School (AHS), Randy Ashe.

###

______________________________________

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.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Richmond Audit Committee meeting scheduled for today to be rescheduled to next month

Monday, July 23, 2012

Addition to Agenda: Councilman Chris A. Hilbert to hold meeting in Northside 3rd District

Friday, July 20, 2012

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson to hold Highland Park Neighborhood Community Meeting in 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

Friday, 20 July 2012

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson to hold Highland Park Neighborhood Community Meeting in Gateway 6th District

All Highland Park Neighborhood residents invited and encouraged to attend

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

Planned Agenda

• Richmond National Night Out Event (Tuesday, August 7, 2012)

- Youth engagement

- Food

- Activities

- Community Partnerships, etc.

• Announcement of Community Selected Priorities for Richmond Master Plan Projects - Budgeted at $325,000

- Outdoor Theatre

- Exercise Trial - Fitness Stations

- Basketball Court Refitting

- and more…

• Community Issue Reports

- Safety

- Workforce Development

- Engaging our Youth

- Communication - i.e. Newsletter, etc.

WHEN Thursday, July 26, 2012

5:00-7:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Department of Parks Recreation and Community Facilities

Ann Hardy Plaza Community Center

3300 First Avenue

Richmond, Virginia 23231

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

CONTACT For more information, please contact Cybelle O’Sullivan-McDaniels, Richmond

City Council, Gateway 6th Voter 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.

Councilman Chris A. Hilbert to hold meeting in Northside 3rd 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

Friday, 20 July 2012

Councilman Chris A. Hilbert to hold meeting in Northside 3rd District

Entire Richmond Northside 3rd District invited and encouraged to attend

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

The planned agenda topics for this meeting include the following:

AGENDA

• Richmond Northside District - Public Safety Report

Report to include Crime Status and Statistics

Richmond Police Department - 4th Police Precinct Team

• Richmond Hurricane Preparedness

Mr. Anthony McLean, Coordinator

Richmond Department of Fire and Emergency Services

Office of Emergency Management,

WHEN Wednesday, July 25, 2012; 6:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities

Pine Camp Recreation Center - Room 117

4901 Old Brook Road, Richmond, Virginia 23227

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

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Services Subcommittee of Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force to hold meeting: CARE Van System to be discussed

Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force Macro Subcommittee to hold meeting

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson invites all former RRHA Dove Court residents to Community meeting tomorrow

Richmond City Council Finance and Economic Development Standing Committee discussion on Proposed Ordinances that would exempt a number of Richmond real estate properties from taxation being continued to September

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, 18 July 2012

Richmond City Council Finance and Economic Development Standing Committee discussion on Proposed Ordinances that would exempt a number of Richmond real estate properties from taxation being continued to September

(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) - - Proposed Richmond City Council Ordinances that would exempt a number of Richmond real estate properties from taxation, that were scheduled to be heard by the Richmond City Council Finance and Economic Standing Committee Tomorrow (July 19, 2012), will be continued to the September meeting of that standing committee. Individuals and organizations interested in this proposed legislation are invited to attend the September meeting.

The proposed Richmond City Council Ordinances can accessed on the Richmond City Council website from the following link: http://eservices.ci.richmond.va.us/applications/clerkstracking/index.asp

The proposed Richmond City Council Ordinances include the following:

1 . Ord. No. 2012-112 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 1301 Blakemore Road from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by James River Apartments, a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the benevolent purpose of providing housing and supportive services for residents of the Richmond area with disabilities.

2 . Ord. No. 2012-113 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 48 West Pilkington Street from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Good Samaritan Ministries, Ltd., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the religious, charitable and benevolent purposes of providing housing, substance abuse treatment and life skills training for residents of the Richmond area suffering from drug and alcohol addiction.

3 . Ord. No. 2012-114 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 2307 Hull Street Road from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Good Samaritan Ministries, Ltd., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the religious, charitable and benevolent purposes of providing housing, substance abuse treatment and life management training for residents of the Richmond area suffering from drug and alcohol addiction.

4 . Ord. No. 2012-115 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 1203 Giles Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low income housing for residents of the Richmond area.

5 . Ord. No. 2012-116 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 1207 Giles Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low income housing for residents of the Richmond area.

6 . Ord. No. 2012-117 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 1211 Giles Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low income housing for residents of the Richmond area.

7 . Ord. No. 2012-118 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 1212 Highland View Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low income housing for residents of the Richmond area.

8 . Ord. No. 2012-119 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 1213 Giles Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low income housing for residents of the Richmond area.

9 . Ord. No. 2012-120 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 1517 Jefferson Davis Highway from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by James River Apartments, a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the benevolent purpose of providing housing and supportive services for residents of the Richmond area with disabilities.

10 . Ord. No. 2012-121 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 201 North Hamilton Street from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Virginia League for Planned Parenthood, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low-cost, high-quality health care and health education to women in the Richmond area.

11 . Ord. No. 2012-122 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 2023 West Cary Street from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Cary Street dFind, LLC, a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the benevolent purpose of providing housing and supportive services to formerly homeless families in the Richmond area.

1 2 . Ord. No. 2012-123 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 2123 West Cary Street from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Cary Street dFind, LLC, a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the benevolent purpose of providing housing and supportive services to formerly homeless families in the Richmond area.

1 3 . Ord. No. 2012-124 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 2320 Broad Rock Boulevard from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by New Life for Youth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the religious purpose of providing housing, substance abuse treatment and life skills training for residents of the Richmond area suffering from drug and alcohol addiction.

1 4 . Ord. No. 2012-125 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 2504 3rd Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Chestnut Hill Apartments, LLC, a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the benevolent purpose of providing housing and supportive services for homeless families in the Richmond area.

1 5 . Ord. No. 2012-126 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 2908 West Cary Street from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by The Byrd Theatre Foundation, a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the historical purposes of preserving the Byrd Theater as a state and national historic landmark and promoting the continued operation of the Byrd Theater as a historic treasure for the citizens of the City of Richmond.

16 . Ord. No. 2012-127 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 2915 Broad Rock Boulevard from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by New Life for Youth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the religious purpose of providing housing, substance abuse treatment and life skills training for residents of the Richmond area suffering from drug and alcohol addiction.

17 . Ord. No. 2012-128 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 2925 Cherokee Road from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Cherokee Hill of Richmond, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the benevolent purpose of providing housing and supportive services to residents of the Richmond area with HIV or AIDS or residents of the Richmond area recovering from substance abuse problems.

18 . Ord. No. 2012-129 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 3005 1st Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low income housing for residents of the Richmond area.

19 . Ord. No. 2012-130 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 3007 1st Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low income housing for residents of the Richmond area.

20 . Ord. No. 2012-131 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 3019 1st Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low income housing for residents of the Richmond area.

21 . Ord. No. 2012-132 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 3030 Meadowbridge Road from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Boaz and Ruth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing job training programs for residents of the Richmond area.

22 . Ord. No. 2012-133 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 4909 Chamberlayne Avenue from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by FIND, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the benevolent purpose of providing housing and supportive services for homeless disabled veterans in the Richmond area.

23 . Ord. No. 2012-134 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 5748 Orcutt Lane from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by New Life for Youth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the religious purpose of providing for the residence of a minister of New Life for Youth, Inc.

24 . Ord. No. 2012-135 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 5754 Orcutt Lane from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by New Life for Youth, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the religious purpose of providing for the residence of a minister of New Life for Youth, Inc.

25 . Ord. No. 2012-136 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 6117 Bliley Road from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Bliley Manor, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the benevolent purpose of providing housing and supportive services to residents of the Richmond area with traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities.

26 . Ord. No. 2012-137 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt 929 North 26th Street from real property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Friends East End Day Care, LLC, a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing developmental childcare and instructional and other social services to at-risk children from low and moderate income families in the Richmond area.

27. Ord. No. 2012-138 (Patron: Mr. Jewell, By Request) - To exempt certain personal property from personal property taxation for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2012, and all subsequent tax years contingent upon the continued use of the property by Virginia League for Planned Parenthood, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in accordance with the charitable purpose of providing low-cost, high-quality health care and health education to women in the Richmond area.

CONTACT For more information, please contact The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Chairman, Richmond City Council Finance and Economic Standing Committee; Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District, at 804.646.7964 (office) or ellen.robertson@richmondgov.com (email); www.ellenrobertson.com (website)

- 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.

Monday, July 16, 2012

Councilwoman Ellen Robertson and Virginia Army National to hold news conference regarding massive 2-week work being done in July on the Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail

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

Camera Opportunity

Monday, 16 July 2012

Councilwoman Ellen Robertson and Virginia Army National to hold news conference regarding massive 2-week work being done in July on the Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail

Entire Richmond Community invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th Voter District and the Virginia Army National Guard will hold a news conference regarding the massive 2-weeks of work being done in July on the Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail.

This immense project is being accomplished by the Virginia Army National Guard, with the assistance of the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities and the Richmond Department of Public Works.

From July 15-27, 2012, approximately 40 citizen-Soldier engineers from the Virginia Army National Guard's Gate City-based 1033rd Engineer Support Company, 276th Engineer Battalion, 91st Troop Command will be clearing sizable undergrowth and grading pedestrian and biking trail along Cannon Creek, which runs parallel to the Richmond-Henrico Turnpike. The Virginia Army National Guard Petersburg-based Forward Support Company, 276th Engineer Battalion is providing logistical support for the units on site and keeping them fed and fueled. Additional Soldiers and equipment from the Virginia Army National Guard Bowling Green-based 189th Engineer Company will also take part in the mission.

The use of heavy and light engineer equipment on the site helps provide “real world” training in preparing Soldiers for the Defense Support to Civilian Authorities mission in responding in the aftermath of devastating hurricanes, floods, tornados and ice/snow events.

WHEN NEWS CONFERENCE

Wednesday, 18 July 2012

10:00-10:30 a.m.

WHERE Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail

Near the (former) Virginia Army National Guard Armory

500 Dove Street (Intersection of Dove Street and Richmond-Henrico Turnpike)

WHO This important event will include:

• Col. Walt Mercer, Commander, Virginia Army National Guard 91st Troop Command

• Citizen Soldiers from the Virginia Army National Guard

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

• Dr. Charles Price, Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club

CONTACT For more information, please contact:

Steve Skinner, Richmond City Council Public Information Manager, at 804.646.6052 (tel) 804.937.1386 (mobile) or steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)

Mr. Cotton Puryear, Communications Director, Virginia Department of Military Affairs, at 804.539.1451 (tel); or cotton.puryear@us.army.mil (email)

Dr. Charles Price, Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club, at 804. 229.0075 (tel) or fewmit@comcast.net (email)

The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council,

Gateway 6th District, at 804.314.7658 (tel) 804.646.7964 (home) or ellen.robertson@richmondgov.com (email)

BACKGROUND __________________________________________________________________________

Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Project

The Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Project is an ongoing community improvement and reclamation initiative for the 1.9 mile area that comprises the Cannon Creek Greenway, which includes a heavily-wooded ravine located adjacent to a section of the north-south Richmond-Henrico Turnpike between Valley Road on the south and Craigie Avenue, located in the Gateway 6th District and Northside 3 District of Richmond.

The goal of the project is to establish a nature, bike and pedestrian trail that includes family-oriented park facilities and a 1.9 mile, 10 foot wide, asphalt-surfaced path. It is envisioned that this project will help to increase the social, economic, and physical revitalization of the Northside and Gateway Voter Districts of Richmond. Plans for the Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway’s include serving as a scenic park and recreational area for the 300 unit, mixed income housing revitalization initiative of the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) that will be built nearby. Construction of the RRHA initiative is planned for the near future.

The sidewalk and street intersections of the Greenway’s bicycle and pedestrian trial will connect the business and commercial corridor along E. Brookland Park Boulevard residential neighborhoods, schools, and community centers for ease of access by bicycling or walking. It will also provide an alternative transportation route for bicycle commuting from the residential neighborhoods of Highland Park and Barton Height to the City’s downtown. In addition to its use for family-oriented, recreational activities, the Greenway may also serve as an outdoor environmental laboratory for the science classes of nearby schools.

The Cannon Creek Greenway Project may also be linked to the United States of America East Coast Greenway, which is being built in sections from Main to Florida, and to the Virginia Capital Trail, which would link Richmond to Williamsburg and Jamestown.

Other projects leading up to this work have included two community cleanups, held in 2009 and 2010 to remove unwanted trash and debris and clearing the site of underbrush in 2010 and 2011 by Virginia Army National Guard, 180th Horizontal Construction Company, 276th Engineer Battalion, with the assistance of the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities and the Richmond Department of Public Works. The work of the Virginia Army National Guard, 180th Horizontal Construction Company, 276th Engineer Battalion, has been critical to the success of this community project. The work performed by the Virginia Army National Guard in 2011 is valued at more than $275,000 and was provided to Richmond at no charge.

The Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Project is supported by The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council Gateway 6th District, The Honorable Christopher A. Hilbert, Councilman, Richmond City Council Northside 3rd District, Richmond Department of Public Works, Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities, Virginia Army National Guard, Southern Barton Heights Community Association, Virginia Chapter Sierra Club, Richmond Public Schools, Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Green Park Civic Association, Highland View Civic Association, Chestnut Hill Action Team, Battery Park Civic Association and the Virginia Tech School of Architecture and Design - Landscape Architecture Program.

TIMELINE ________________________________________________________________________________

The following is a summarized Progress Timeline:

2012 May 5, 2012

Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail First Phase Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Community Bike Ride held: Marked the Official opening of a .4 mile stretch of the 1.9 mile planned project

A Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail First Phase Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Community Bike Ride was held to officially mark a significant milestone and achievement of the ongoing community improvement and reclamation initiative for the 1.9 mile area that comprises the Cannon Creek Greenway.

The Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail First Phase Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Community Bike Ride commemorated the official opening of a .4 mile stretch (Dove Street to Valley Road) of the 1.9 mile planned project. A community bike ride was held immediately following the ribbon cutting.

2011 July 17- July 27, 2011

Approximately 75 Citizen Soldier Engineers from the Powhatan-based Virginia Army National Guard - 180th Horizontal Construction Company, 276th Engineer Battalion, with the assistance of the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities and the Richmond Department of Public Works, cleared sizable undergrowth and grading the land for a pedestrian and biking trail along Cannon Creek. The Petersburg-based Virginia Army National Guard - Forward Support Company of the 276th Engineer Battalion provided logistical support for the units on site to keep them fed and fueled. The work performed was valued at more than $275,000 and was provided to Richmond citizens at no charge. The use of heavy and light engineer equipment on the site helps provide “real world” training in preparing Soldiers for the Defense Support to Civilian Authorities mission in responding in the aftermath of devastating hurricanes, floods, tornados and ice/snow events.

July 26, 2011

The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th District and the community surrounding the Cannon Creek Greenway held a thank you dinner and celebration for Virginia Army National Guard - 180th Horizontal Construction Company, 276th Engineer Battalion. The celebration dinner was sponsored and hosted by the community in appreciation of their outstanding work and included a community tour of the site. The work performed was valued at more than $275,000 and was provided to Richmond citizens at no charge.

2010 Saturday, March 20, 2010

Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Community Cleanup was held to remove unwanted trash and debris from the Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway. The cleanup included an estimated 100 community volunteers.

July 22 - July 27, 2010

The First Phase of the Project was begun to clear undergrowth in the Cannon Creek Greenway. This included approximately 25 Citizen Soldier Engineers from the Powhatan-based Virginia Army National Guard - 180th Horizontal Construction Company, 276th Engineer Battalion and the assistance of the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities and the Richmond Department of Public Works. This project included the clearing of sizable undergrowth and grading the land for a walking and biking trail. The Petersburg-based Virginia Army National Guard - Forward Support Company of the 276th Engineer Battalion provided logistical support for the units on site to keep them fed and fueled. The work performed was valued at more than $20,000 and was provided to Richmond at no charge. The use of heavy and light engineering equipment on the site helps provide “real world” training in preparing Soldiers for the Defense Support to Civilian Authorities mission in responding in the aftermath of devastating hurricanes, floods, tornados and ice/snow events.

2009 Saturday, January 24, 2009,

A Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway Community Cleanup was established to remove unwanted trash and debris from the Richmond Cannon Creek Greenway. The cleanups have been extremely successful in helping transform the area, which, over the years, had been used as an illegal dump site. The cleanup included more than 200 volunteers who cleaned up 20 tons of trash, which included 400 tires.

October, 2009

A stakeholders’ Planning “Charrette” was conducted to decide on the features of the reclaimed Cannon Creek Greenway by faculty and students of the Virginia Tech Landscape Architectural Program. The Richmond Government Administration also completed an environmental study of the Greenway site began conducting an engineering study of the area and hired an engineering consultant contractor to study of the proposed alternative routes of the Greenway’s bike and pedestrian trail.

December 1, 2009

Richmond submitted an “Innovative Readiness Training Request for Military Assistance Application to the Virginia Office of the Office and the Virginia Adjutant General to the Virginia Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense, Reserve Affairs. The request was for them to establish, as a training function of the Virginia National Guard, the clearing of undergrowth and construction of the Cannon Creek Greenway’s bike/pedestrian trail and park by the Virginia Army National Guard, 180th Horizontal Construction Company, 276th Engineer Battalion.

2008 Planning for the features of the Greenway began in 2008 and has included a series of community meetings and workshops involving neighborhood civic associations, elected Councilmembers, residents of the Highland Park and Barton Heights communities, Richmond Department of Parks and Recreation, Richmond Department of Community Development, Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA), and several environmental and recreation organizations.

Dove Street Redevelopment ______________________________________________________________

Once the location of Dove Court, a public housing complex, operated by the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA), plans for the area include building new mixed-income rental and for-sale housing on the former Dove Court site and the site of the former Carrington Gardens-Northridge Apartments. It will also include redevelopment of a former Virginia Army National Guard Armory building located there and the creation of for-sale housing.

- 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.

Richmond City Council and Richmond City Auditor to hold News Conference to unveil a new tool in helping fight government fraud, waste and abuse

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Richmond City Council celebrates Richmond for winning Outside Magazine Best Town Ever online poll and thanks Richmond Metro Area for voting for Richmond

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Councilwoman Reva Trammell to hold a meeting in Richmond’s Southside 8th 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, July 11, 2012

Councilwoman Reva Trammell to hold a meeting in Richmond’s Southside 8th District

All Southside 8th Voter District citizens invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Honorable Reva M. Trammell, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Southside 8th Voter District, will hold a meeting in the Southside 8th Voter District. Councilwoman Trammel personally holds individual monthly meetings that include information on her goals and accomplishments, a thematic agenda, special guests, free parking and free refreshments. The meetings are free and all of Richmond’s Southside 8th Voter District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. Topics and Guests for her meeting will include:

Topics and Guests

• Mark Bridgman, Interim Community Assisted Public Safety Program Manager Richmond Department of Economic & Community Development

• Riverside PACE

• Linda G. Broady-Myers, President/Chairman

Greater Richmond Transit Company Board of Directors

• Cora Dickerson, Manager 2-1-1 Information & Referral Center

Director, Infant & Toddler Connection

United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg

• Richmond Police Department

Know your neighborhood Richmond Police Officers

Capt. Sybil El-Amin, Commander

Richmond Police Department 1st Police Precinct

Capt. Harvey Powers, Commander

Richmond Police Department 2nd Police Precinct

Capt. Jennifer Elflein, Commander

Richmond Police Department 3rd Police Precinct

WHEN Thursday, July 19, 2012

6:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE Satellite Restaurant & Lounge/Crab House

4000 Jefferson Davis Highway - Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Reva M. Trammell, Councilwoman

Richmond City Council, Southside 8th Voter District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilwoman Reva Trammell, at 804-240-5050 (mobile); or, 233-7382 (home), or via email, at reva.trammell@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.

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

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

Tuesday, 10 July 2012

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 Voter 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 Voter District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. This meeting will include:

Agenda ____________________________________________________

• Public Safety Report on the West End 1st District

Richmond Police Department 3rd Precinct

• Discussion of Richmond City Stadium

Richmond Department of Economic and Community Development

• Proposed Development at Libbie and Grove

Richmond Department of Planning and Development Review

• Questions and Concerns

WHEN Tuesday, 24 July 2012

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 the Richmond West End 1st District)

WHO The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman

Richmond City Council, West End 1st Voter District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Bruce Tyler, at 804.357.6007; or bruce.tyler@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.

Monday, July 9, 2012

Councilman Marty Jewell to hold a 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

Monday, 9 July 2012

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

All Central 5th District citizens invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT (Richmond, Virginia) -- The Honorable E. Martin "Marty" Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District, will hold a meeting in the Central 5th District. Councilman Jewell personally holds individual meetings in the Central 5th District throughout the year that include information on his goals and accomplishments; a thematic agenda of current interest; and, special guests. All Central 5th District residents are invited and encouraged to attend. Free light refreshments will be served. Parking is Free.

WHEN Tuesday, July 10, 2012

6:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Southside Government Services Center

4100 Hull Street - Richmond, Virginia

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

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Marty Jewell, Richmond City Council, Central 5th District, at 804.646.5724 (tel); or marty.jewell@richmondgov.com (email).

- 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.

Richmond City Council mourns the passing of Ms. Ruby Ethel Giles Turner

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission meeting for July to be held Thursday

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL

Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY

IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED

Monday 9 July 2012

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission meeting for July to be held Thursday

(Note: This is rescheduled meeting from last week.) All Richmond Residents are invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT (Richmond, Virginia) -- (Rescheduled meeting that was to be held last week to be held Thursday.) The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission holds monthly meetings regarding its work and ongoing projects in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. The meetings are typically scheduled to be held the first Thursday of each month, beginning at 4:00 p.m., at the same location. These meetings are free and open to the public and all Richmond residents are invited and encouraged to attend. The agenda for these meeting typically include the following:

• Welcome

• New Business

• Updates

• Committee Reports

• Charette

• Upcoming Events

• Closing Remarks/Adjournment

WHEN Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission

2012 Regular Schedule of Meetings: Upcoming Meetings

Postponed: Thursday, July 5, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

New Date: Thursday, July 12, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, August 2, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 6, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 4, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, November 1, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 6, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

WHERE Richmond East District Initiative Government Services 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 City Council Slave Trail Commission, please contact The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond Slave Trail Commission (Member, Virginia House of Delegates -70th Voter District) 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 of Richmond City Council that was established by Resolution Number 98-R 102-107, adopted July 13, 1998, as amended by Resolution No. 2000-R111-109, adopted July 24, 2000, as amended by Resolution No. 2003-R132-123, adopted July 14, 2003, as amended by Resolution No. 2003-R155-141, adopted September 8, 2003, as amended by Resolution No. 2004-R125-131, adopted June 28, 2004.

The purpose of the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission is to assist Council with oversight and assistance in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. The Commission meets monthly and includes 17 members that are appointed by Council to serve for three year terms. The composition of membership is as follows:

The Commission shall be composed of seventeen (17) members. Such persons shall be appointed by the Council and shall serve for terms of three (3) years. The membership of the Commission shall include at least one (1) member of City Council, not less than three (3) members of the “Hope in the Cities” organization and a representative from the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities. Any appointed Council members shall be given the first option of serving as the Chair of the Commission in order of their appointment. Five members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for meetings.

Over the years, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission has worked on a number of important projects, which have included:

• 2011

Unveiling of 17 Richmond Slave Trail Markers located throughout the Shockoe Bottom area of Richmond, marking sites that help tell the historic journey, human impact, and the role Richmond played in the tragic history of slavery.

The Richmond Slave Trail Markers will serve to recognize the regrettable time in our nation’s 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.

• 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 on Friday, March 30, 2007, erected at 15th and E. Main Streets. Included design and construction of the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statute plaza and erection of the statue. This project was part of a global initiative placing three statues in three countries. Dedicated to slavery reconciliation, the installation of the statue represents nearly 10 years of work between the City of Richmond, Virginia, USA (North America), Liverpool, England (Europe), and the Republic of Benin (Africa). A statue was erected in Liverpool in 1989 and the Republic of Benin in August 2005.

• 2006

Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment

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.

• 2003

Acquisition of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue. For three quarters of the 18th Century, Virginia (North America), Liverpool, England (Europe), and the Republic of Benin (Africa) represented one of the largest global commercial trade triangles of enslaved Africans. Liverpool's shipbuilding industry provided the vessels that sailed to the Kingdom of Dahomey, now the Republic of Benin, where Africans were loaded on ships and transported to the Americas, with Richmond, Virginia being one of the major recipients.

Support

Richmond City Council provides annual staff assistance as available 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. Additional staff support is provided by the Richmond City Administration through the Richmond Department of Economic Development, which includes project engineering and management.

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.

- end -

______________________________________

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