Friday, December 21, 2012

Councilman Marty Jewell will not hold previously scheduled meeting in the Central 5th Voter 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, 21 December 2012



Councilman Marty Jewell will not hold previously scheduled meeting in the Central 5th Voter District



Meeting will not be held



WHAT (Richmond, Virginia U.S. A.) -- The Honorable E. Martin "Marty" Jewell, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Central 5th Voter District, will not hold the meeting in the Central 5th Voter District that was previously scheduled to be held Thursday, December 27, 2012 at the Richmond Southside Community Services Center.



WHEN Canceled



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.







Monday, December 17, 2012

Richmond City Council on the Connecticut School Shooting

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, 14 December 2012



Richmond City Council on the Connecticut School Shooting



Tragic loss of lives



(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- Richmond City Council expresses its heartfelt sorrow at learning of the senseless shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut today.



The thoughts and prayers of the Richmond City Council are with the Newtown community.



In this tragedy we are reminded that man's capacity for evil is outweighed by his capacity for good.



We ask that everyone join us in keeping all the families in their hearts, thoughts and prayers.



- 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.







Friday, December 14, 2012

Richmond to receive wreath honoring departed U.S. Military Veterans: Part of Wreaths Across America tribute

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, 14 December 2012



Richmond to receive wreath honoring departed U.S. Military Veterans: Part of Wreaths Across America tribute



Delivered by convoy of motorcycle riders that includes members of the Richmond Police Department Police Motorcycle Unit, local motorcycle groups and individual riders



WHAT (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- The Honorable Reva M. Trammell, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Southside 8th Voter District will accept a wreath at Richmond City Hall on behalf of Richmond residents as part of the annual Wreaths Across America tribute honoring the service and sacrifice of departed United States of America Military Veterans.



The presentation to Councilwoman Trammell is part of official Richmond-area events that will culminate in a Noon ceremony being held at Richmond National Cemetery (located at 1701 Williamsburg Road, Richmond, Virginia).



Established in 1992 by the Worchester Wreath Company (Harrington, Maine), this annual tribute is one in which thousands of volunteers transport an estimated 200,000 wreaths and place them at more than 500 state, local and federal locations worldwide on a Saturday in early December.



In commemoration of these events, hundreds of official ceremonies are held simultaneously across the world, beginning at Noon, U.S. Eastern Standard Time (1700 Zulu). The main ceremony is held at the U.S. Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.



Due to a tremendous outpouring of support, a Wreaths Across America nonprofit organization was created in 2007 to coordinate these efforts. Costs are paid for by individual wreath sponsors, corporate donors and volunteers.



The Richmond tribute will include a large motorcycle convoy that includes members of the Richmond Police Department Police Motorcycle Unit, local motorcycle groups and individual riders.



WHEN Saturday, December 15, 2012 - APPROXIMATE RICHMOND SCHEDULE



10:30-10:45 a.m. Convoy departs Cox Transportation (Ashland, Virginia)

(1044 Dow Gil Road, Ashland, Virginia).

Travels I-95 South en route to Richmond, Virginia



10:50-11:15 a.m. Wreath Presentation Richmond City Hall

Branch of convoy presents wreath

Richmond City Hall

900 E. Broad Street (9th Street Entrance)

Richmond, Virginia 23219



The Honorable Reva M. Trammell, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Southside 8th Voter District to receive wreath on behalf of Richmond Residents



Noon Ceremony held at Richmond National Cemetery

1701 Williamsburg Road, Richmond, Virginia



Official worldwide ceremonies begin simultaneously

at Noon, U.S. Eastern Standard Time (1700 Zulu)



WHERE Richmond City Hall (Wreath Presentation to Richmond Residents)

Richmond City Hall

900 E. Broad Street (9th Street Entrance)

Richmond, Virginia 23219



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.



Thursday, December 13, 2012

Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force meeting tonight canceled

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, 12 December 2012



Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force meeting tonight canceled



Meetings to resume January 2013



WHAT (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- The Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force meeting, scheduled for tonight (Thursday, December 13, 2012), has been canceled. The Task Force will resume its meetings (typically the second Thursday of the month) in January 2013.



The purpose of the Task Force is to make recommendations to Richmond City Council with regard to enhancing mass transit in the Metro-Richmond area and the efficiency and effectiveness of the GRTC Transit System. The meeting is free and open to the public and all residents are invited and encouraged to attend.



WHEN Meeting tonight canceled



WHO Members of the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force



CONTACT For more information, please contact Marianne Pitts, at 804.646.5935;

or marianne.pitts@richmondgov.com.



Background ____________________________________________________________________________



Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force

Richmond City Council established the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force on September 27, 2010 by Richmond City Council Ordinance No. 2010-173-166.



The objective of the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force is to provide a report to Council within in a year of its first meeting which recommends the following:



1. Any legislation, plans, policies, and programs that promote efficient mass transit in the city;



2. Economic development, economic growth, employment and tourism strategies that include public transportation; and,



3. Public relations and education programs to increase public use of mass transit.



4. The Task Force shall also work with interested private organizations to improve the service and efficiency of the GRTC.





- 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.













Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Richmond City Council mourns loss of Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan

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, 12 December 2012



Richmond City Council mourns loss of Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan



Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan, died Tuesday, December 11, 2012



(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) – Richmond City Council expresses its sorrow at learning of the death of Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan, who passed Tuesday, December 11, 2012.



Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan served as head of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond from July 19, 1974 until his retirement on September 16, 2003.



His 29 years of services as the leader of the Diocese was the longest on record for that Catholic post in America. Established in 1820, the Diocese includes an estimated 220,000 Catholics and stretches a distance of 535 miles.



Bishop Sullivan was ordained as a Priest for the Catholic Diocese of Richmond in 1953 and earned his Degree in Canon Law from Catholic University in 1960. In 1970 he was ordained as an Auxiliary Bishop for the Catholic Diocese of Richmond and was installed as Bishop in 1974.



During his term in Richmond, Bishop Sullivan was considered a progressive leader and was known for his ecumenical work with all faiths, minorities and groups.



The life and work of Bishop Sullivan will long be remembered.









- 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.







Councilman Chris A. Hilbert on behalf of the loss of Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan

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, 12 December 2012





Councilman Chris A. Hilbert on behalf of the loss of Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan



Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan, died Tuesday, December 11, 2012



(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) – "It is with deep sadness that my wife and I learned of the passing of Bishop Walter F. Sullivan. I have always respected him and his lifelong dedication to serving others. His passing is a great loss to Richmond and to the many families he assisted over his many years of leadership.



During his term in Richmond, Bishop Sullivan was considered as one of the most progressive leaders in the Catholic Church and was known for his ecumenical work with all faiths, minorities and groups and I think his lesson is one that is well worth recognition and emulation.



Bishop Sullivan led a life of profound grace and I was proud to have him living in my District for many years prior to his death. As we mourn the loss of his great spirit and intellect we also celebrate his works and the impact he had on so many in Richmond and beyond."



- The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert, Councilman

Richmond City Council, Northside 3rd Voter District



CONTACT For more information, please contact The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert, Councilman, Richmond City Council Northside 3rd Voter District,

at 804.646.6055 or chris.hilbert@richmondgov.com.



Background

Former Bishop Walter F. Sullivan served as head of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond from July 19, 1974 to September 16, 2003. His 29 years of services as the leader of the Diocese was the longest on record for that Catholic post in America. Established in 1820, the Diocese includes an estimated 220,000 Catholics and stretches a distance of 535 miles.



- 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, December 6, 2012

Rescheduled: Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission meeting scheduled for tonight to be held next week

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

Thursday, 6 December 2012



Rescheduled: Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission meeting scheduled for tonight to be held next week



New date: Thursday, December 13, 2012



WHAT (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission meeting originally scheduled to be held tonight (Thursday, December 6, 2012) has been rescheduled to Thursday, December 13, 2012. This meeting is free and open to the public and all Richmond residents are invited and encouraged to attend.



The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission typically holds monthly meetings regarding its work and ongoing projects in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. These meetings are typically scheduled to be held the first Thursday of each month, beginning at 4:00 p.m., at the same location. The agenda for these meeting typically include the following:



• Welcome

• New Business

• Updates

• Committee Reports

• Charette

• Upcoming Events

• Closing Remarks/Adjournment



WHEN Thursday, December 13, 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 Voter District



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



Background ____________________________________________________________________________



Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission

One of Richmond City Council's more than 55 official boards, task forces and commissions that it has created and that assists with providing oversight of certain projects and priorities, 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





Monday, December 3, 2012

Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission meeting schedule

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, 3 December 2012



Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission meeting schedule



Includes information regarding work and ongoing projects



WHAT The Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission holds regular meetings regarding its work and ongoing projects. The meetings are typically held the first Wednesday of the month from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in Richmond City Hall in the 2nd Floor Large Conference Room. These meetings are free and open to the public and all Richmond residents are invited and encouraged to attend.



The meeting agendas typically include the following:



• Welcome

• New Business

• Updates

• Committee Reports

• Closing Remarks/Adjournment



WHEN UPCOMING MEETING SCHEDULE

Wednesday, December 5, 2012: 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, January 2, 2013: 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, February 6, 2013: 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013: 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, April 3, 2013: 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, May 1, 2013: 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, June 5, 2013: 5:00-7:00 p.m.



WHERE Richmond City Hall-2nd Floor Large Conference Room

Richmond City Hall, 2nd floor; 900 E. Broad Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219 U.S.A.



WHO Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission



CONTACT For more information, please contact: Susan Nolan, Chairman, Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission, at 804.690.3473 (mobile), or susannolan@verizon.net (email).





BACKGROUND ______________________________________________________________________

One of Richmond City Council's more than 50 official boards, task forces and commissions that it has created and that assists with providing oversight of certain projects and priorities, the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission was established by Richmond City Council in 1980 and operates under Council guidelines and by requirements of the Sister Cities International organization, located in Washington, D.C.



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 membership was lowered to 13.



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 Richmond's 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.



• From August 3-8, 2012 Richmond welcomed Japanese Little League Baseball team players for the 18th Richmond City Council Sister Cities Richmond-Saitama International Junior Baseball Exchange. This exchange marked the return to the exchange for the first time since 2010, as the 2011 events were canceled due to tragic earthquake and tsunami that severely impacted Japan. During their week-long stay, the little leaguers enjoyed international cultural exchange and played baseball games with Little League in the Richmond area. The visiting Saitama team included 17 players, one City Official, four coaches and an emergency technician. The first baseball exchange began in Richmond in 1994 and rotates each year from Richmond to Saitama. The visit, games and friendships fostered during the little leaguers’ visit to Richmond are sterling examples of the partnership and collaboration between Richmond and Saitama, one of Richmond’s six international Sister City relationships.



• On June 23, 2012, three educators visited Richmond from Saitama, Japan for two weeks as part of Richmond Sister Cities Commission Educational Exchange program. That marks the 13th year of this successful educational exchange program which began in 1998.



• In March of 2012, 10 high school students and two teachers from Urawa Municipal High School in Saitama, Japan visited Richmond to as part of a week-long Richmond Sister Cities Commission Educational Exchange program.



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.



For more information regarding the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission, please visit its website, at http://www.richmondgov.com/CommissionSisterCities/index.aspx





- 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

to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.



Councilwoman Robertson to hold annual Gateway 6th District Community Celebration and Awards Breakfast

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, 3 December 2012



Councilwoman Robertson to hold annual Gateway 6th District Community Celebration and Awards Breakfast



Includes refreshments and live entertainment



WHAT (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Gateway 6th Voter District, will hold her annual Community Celebration and Awards Breakfast. The event will include live entertainment, refreshments, awards and special prizes. All Gateway 6th Voter District residents are invited and encouraged to attend. Parking is Free. The planned agenda for the event will include:



Awards and Recognition

Councilwoman Robertson will personally recognize individual citizens, civic/ community and nonprofit leaders and organizations, corporations, youth and staff for their achievements and service to her and the Gateway 6th Voter District.



Live Entertainment



• Live Jazz Band



• Youth performances/presentations



• Art Display



• Much, much more



Refreshments

Free food and drinks will be served to all attendees.



WHEN Saturday December 8, 2012

10:00 a.m. – Noon



WHERE 5th Street Baptist Church

Grace Center

2800 3rd Avenue

Richmond, Virginia 23222



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 -





















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

Monday, 3 December 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 (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- 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



• Mr. Byron Marshall, Richmond Chief Administrative Officer

City of Richmond



• Closing of Richmond Public Schools Summer Hill Elementary School



• 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. Yvonne Crowder, Commander

Richmond Police Department 3rd Police Precinct



WHEN Thursday, December 20, 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.