Pine Grove Gazette_ V.5 Issue 1

THE PINE GROVE GAZETTE

VOL 5 ISSUE 1

THE PINE GROVE Message from the

Our guiding theme for 2025 is “Strengthening Roots, Inspiring Branches” which

speaks to both our mission and our momentum. AMMD Pine Grove Project is

deeply rooted in honoring the past, and equally committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders, advocates, and truth-tellers. The roots we

strengthen are the legacies of those who came before us. The branches we inspire are those who will carry that legacy forward.

This year, we continue our work in preserving history and expanding community,

and above all, in advocating for what is right. The importance of advocacy cannot be overstated in a time when the stories of Black people, our heritage,

and our sacred spaces are being threatened nationally; not only by indifference but by active attempts to erase them.

THE PINE GROVE GAZETTE

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Message

We must raise our voices against environmental and social injustice, including the looming harm of the proposed mega-landfill that threatens

the health, safety, and integrity of our Freedman-built and historically Black Pine Grove community in Cumberland County. This is not just a land-

use issue; it is a direct threat to the cultural landscape and environmental well-being of families who have lived and labored on this land for generations.

We are also advocating against the national threat of erasure of our

historic buildings and sacred spaces, including Tuskegee-Rosenwald

Schools like Pine Grove, which hold invaluable proof of our people’s resilience, self-determination, and contribution to American history.

These museums, schools, and communities are part of the nation’s permanent record, and we refuse to let them vanish at the stroke of a pen.

That’s why we need you! Every voice, every gift, and every skill matters in

a grassroots movement. Whether you’re a writer, organizer, artist, speaker, student, elder, or ally, there is a place for you within AMMD Pine Grove Project.

We welcomed several new committee members through our

Virtual Committee Fair in January, but there is always room for more.

Inside this edition of The Pine Grove Gazette, you’ll find ways to get involved, updates from our teams, and inspiration to keep pressing

forward. If you’re not on our email listserv and would like to receive our updates

and

action

ammdpinegroveproject@gmail.com.

alerts,

send

With strength, solidarity, and always looking ahead,

~Sonja

a

message

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PILLAR I:

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Jayla and Kheaton prepare to read.

written by: Joanne Petty I Photo credits: Muriel Miller Branch

Read Across America Day!

National Read Across America Day is celebrated each year on or near the birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, affectionately known by his pen name, “Dr Seuss”. Dr. Seuss authored over 60 children’s books.

A group photo at Mile 4.

Hailey is reading to her group of students.

Ready, Set, Read!

In recognition of National Read Across America Day, on March 3, 2025, nine Cumberland High School students who are AMMD Pine Grove Project Student Ambassadors, read to students in grades K-2 at Cumberland Elementary School in Cumberland, VA. Four adult members of AMMD PGP accompanied the students. Organized by retired educator, Mrs Joanne Petty, and Mrs. Minnie Tate, the Read Across America event was flawless. Students were assisted by CES assistant principal, Mrs. Pamela Stepko, who provided books that were Kamira Holman organized by the elementary school’s librarian, docent for the event Mrs. Andrea Adkins.

The student ambassadors were so enthusiastic as they read to a total of fifteen classrooms, five in each grade level. Elementary students listened attentively as the stories in the books of Dr. Seuss unfolded, allowing their imaginations to enter a world of make believe and time to enjoy being a child. (click for video footage) Micah is recording his fellow Ambassadors in action!

The students are all ears and engaged as the Student Ambassadors read to them.

Minnie Tate enjoying the interaction during Read Across America Day!

Joanne Petty and Babette Boatwright make sure all books are accounted for

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CONNECT2TECH Trainer, Mary Jean Irving, shares tech tips from the manual.

Bridging Generations Through Technology: The Launch of Connect2Tech written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson I Photo credits: Joanne Petty

AMMD Pine Grove Project is proud to announce the successful launch of Connect2Tech, a groundbreaking new program designed to empower

“golden-agers” with essential digital skills, thereby bridging the generational divide and expanding access to technology in our community.

Our initial cohort of six enthusiastic participants delved into the digital world with the guidance of dedicated and encouraging instructors Joanne Petty

and Mary Jean Irving, who have brought the custom-developed curriculum to life with care, clarity, and creativity. The curriculum, thoughtfully crafted by

Practice, practice, practice by the Cohort members.

Sonja Branch-Wilson, is designed to meet learners where they are and build both confidence and competence in everyday technology use.

From navigating smartphones and email to understanding cyber safety and video calling, Connect2Tech is more than just a class, it’s a lifeline to

connection, independence, and continued learning in the digital age.

Participants have embraced the challenge, and the results are already inspiring!

"I truly appreciate what you and Mary are doing to put Sonja's vision into effect. This program has helped me, and will help many to come. " (Darlene)

This pilot cohort marks the beginning of a larger vision to equip more

members of our community with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly

Trainer, Joanne S. Petty, shows learning is FUN!

digital world.

Stay tuned—registration dates for Cohort 2 are coming soon! Whether you’re looking to improve your own skills or want to recommend the program to a loved one, Connect2Tech is here to connect, educate, and empower. #Connect2Tech #DigitalEmpowerment #LifelongLearning

Participants “learn by doing”

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The History of Cumberland’s Black Churches Founding years between: 1861-1910 written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson l photo credits: AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors and Essex Finney

On Sunday, February 23, 2025, history came alive at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where Pastor Lawanda

Childress-Hampton serves as the inspirational leader. Our AMMD Pine Grove Project Student Ambassadors led an unforgettable Black History Month program titled Faith to Freedom: The History of Cumberland’s Black Churches. This dynamic event illuminated the rich legacy and pivotal role Black churches have played in

shaping our community’s journey from their founding during oppression to empowerment, from 1861 to 1910. The

packed sanctuary was filled with pride, reverence, and joy as our AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors delivered moving presentations and performances that honored the deep spiritual roots of our community.

Each Student Ambassador was paired with a presentation mentor, working diligently over weeks to research the founding of Cumberland County’s historically Black churches. Special thanks to presentation mentors

Babette Boatwright, Rev. Muriel Miller Branch, Sonja Branch-Wilson, Chelsea Goode, Bill Obrochta, Joanne Petty, and Dorothy Rice. Together, they helped develop a vibrant narrative of history, culture, and spiritual

triumph to present in creative ways. Their work paid off in captivating performances that blended spoken word, storytelling, and visuals; each presentation was a tribute to the enduring role of the Black church in shaping identity, justice, and community.

Musical transitions between eras were soul-stirring, thanks to the extraordinary talents of pianist Lamont

Williams and vocalist Dekota Goode, whose voice filled the sanctuary with the sounds of sacred history. One of the afternoon’s most memorable moments came during the presentation on Mt. Calvary Baptist Church by

Karisma and Dyasia. At the conclusion, Karisma stunned the audience with a powerful, impromptu rendition of

“Lord, I Know I’ve Been Changed”—her vocal ability that brought the crowd to its feet and tears to many eyes.

In a touching and much-deserved moment, Sister Hatcher, a 91-year-old church elder from Mt. Olive Baptist

Church, was honored for her lifelong faith and commitment to the church and community. The old proverb rang

true: “Give them their flowers while they can still smell them.” Pastor Hampton ensured this was done, joyfully and gratefully; and generations of her family showed all the way up to witness this honor.

The program was made even more meaningful by our amazing partnership with Pastor Lawanda Hampton-

Childress and the Mt. Olive Baptist Church Family, whose warmth and hospitality set the tone for the day. The

spontaneous' church roll call” led by event coordinators Chelsea and Sonja added fun and light-hearted crowd participation, reminding everyone of our collective pride and unity.

To say the “Faith to Freedom” program was a success is an understatement! With every pew filled, in the main

sanctuary and the side seating, Faith to Freedom was a moving testament to the strength of our roots, the power of our faith, and the bright future being shaped by the youth of AMMDPGP. We came to remember. We left inspired!

(click for video footage)

Nashai thanked Mr. Obrochta, her presentation mentor.

Hailey read her original poem about New Hope.

Ja’Miya takes a quick selfie in Karisma SAANNNG during their her time period attire.

Mt. Calvary presentation.

Aaliyah presents history of Tear Wallet Baptist Church

“Lift ev’ry voice and sing, ‘til earth and heaven ring”

Jayla creatively presents

Nashai thanks Chelsea Goode for her hard work.

Kamira had a special edition of The Central Call Dekota Goode, vocalist for the event.

(click for video footage)

THANK YOU, Pastor Hampton!!

Dyasia is excited about her presentation!

Kamira’s dynamic presentation for Mt. Olive.

“Let our rejoicing rise High as the list'ning skies”

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NOW IS THE TIME..... written by: Kamira Holman

I’m absolutely thrilled to be your President of the AMMD Pine Grove Project Youth Council!

Buckle up because NOW IS THE TIME to jump on board!

Joining the Student Ambassadors isn't just a chance—it's a full-blown movement! This thrilling ride offers epic opportunities to polish your leadership skills, keep history alive, whip up awesome events, and rub elbows with some seriously influential folks you never thought you’d meet!

Here’s a sneak peek at the treasures you’ll uncover in this inspiring program: Networking Bonanza: Mingle with the rock stars of preservation, advocacy, and community action!

Expanded Horizons: Discover programs, resources, and connections that stretch far beyond Cumberland County.

Community Service Hours: Yep, you need them for graduation, and trust me, this is a fun way to snag them!

And guess what? You don’t have to call Cumberland home to join the fun! Our work is making waves across the state and beyond! So, if you’re pumped to make a real difference, scan that QR code or chat with any Youth Council member to dive in. This is your moment to preserve history, level up your skills, and become part of a legacy that’ll spark inspiration for generations!

Don’t hesitate—now is your time to shine as an AMMDPGP Student Ambassador.

SCAN TO JOIN!!!

We can't wait to welcome you to the squad!

Chance Smith

Karisma Neal

Jayla Augustin

Dyasia Boatwright

Aaliyah Minter

Kheaton Lynch

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PILLAR II: written by: Dorothy M. Rice l Poems by: AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors

Essay Contest Winner

Alana Johnson Sophomore Cumberland High School

An Ode to Sharon Baptist Church written by: Jayla Austin (AMMDPGPSA)

In 1868, a church did rise, Under the Brush Arbor, beneath open skies.

The Old Toll House marked the start, A humble place to lift each heart.

Poetry springs from our passion, politics, prayers, and

praise, everything that we have experienced for thousands

of days. From silence to solace, conversation and salvation.

Field hollers, work songs, blues, jazz, rock and roll, rap.

We tap into our souls to create and express our personal,

communal, and universal truths. AMMD Pine Grove Project

will be hosting a National Poetry Month event for youth and adults to give homage and honor to the oral and written traditions of our culture. Here are few samples of our

AMMDPGSA’s original work from their youthful perspectives.

Logs were stacked, a cabin made, Where prayers and hymns would not fade.

Beside the old cemetery, there it stood, A place of worship, solemn and good.

Then in 1878, across the way, A frame church rose to greet the day.

Land from the Saunders, for just four dollars, A testament to faith, where love still hollers.

Years passed on, and in 1944, A new building opened its door.

Cinder blocks stood strong and tall, As Sharon Baptist answered the call.

From humble beginnings, faith did grow, In every heart, it still does glow.

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A Church's Song, In The Heart of Virginia

Baptisms In the James

In the hush of Virginia’s hills, Where shadows of the past stand still, A humble church, with wooden walls, Echoed voices, strong and tall.

In the years after war had torn, When souls were bruised and hearts were worn, Churches rose from dust and pain, To guide the lost, to break the chain.

By the banks of the James River flow, Where waters swirl, and soft winds blow, New Hope Baptist stands, so proud, so true, A beacon of faith, where spirits renew.

But beyond the steeple, beyond the pew, The river whispers stories old and new, Of baptisms held in waters deep, Where souls are washed and secrets sleep.

Among the pews, both young and old, Were stories in the silence told.

Of freedoms price and battles fought, Of prayers for peace and lessons taught.

Pastors, bold, with courage bright, Brought light to hearts in the darkest night.

In days gone by, beneath the sky, The faithful gathered, none asking why.

With hands held high and hearts full of grace, They walked to the river to find their place.

The James Rivers waters, cool and wide, Offered a promise, a faith to guide, For in those depths, they'd ride anew.

A symbol of grace, both pure and true.

written by: Hailey Crump (AMMDPGPSA)

Their sermons sang of love and grace, And built a sacred, hopeful place.

From Richmond streets to Norfolk’s shore, Churches bloomed on every door, Where freedoms fire took root and grew, And saints would gather, brave and true.

Through hymn and prayer, they found their way, Reclaiming voices stolen away.

In reverence, their spirits rose, As Virginia's churches stood, and chose.

For every stone that built the walls, For every prayer that filled the halls, A legacy was carved in stone.

With a sacred strength, they were not alone.

In every pew, in every song, The past lived on, both proud and strong.

And though the years have come and gone, The church stands firm, its light still shone.

In the heart of Virginia's clay, The faith, the hope, the love still stays.

A testament to all they've known, In those old churches, they've found home.

Photo credit: Bolling Family Archives

written by: Hailey Crump (AMMDPGPSA)

But the river, though gentle, had its tests, With sut holes hidden, where feet might rest, And snakes that slither in the flow, A reminder that faith, too, must grow.

The sut holes deep, the ground unknown, Were like trials that we've all been shown.

The places that challenge, the things we fear, But still, we step forward, year by year.

And though the snakes would sometimes glide, Through the waters where the faithful bide, They served as reminders that even in dread, Faith is alive where courage is led.

So into the James, they would descend, Not just for cleansing, but to transcend, The weight of the past, the toil of life, In the cool embrace, away from strife.

For the heart of Cartersville town, The James River waters held no frown, But rather a love that runs so deep, A promise that souls would always keep.

New Hope Baptist, with your hands held wide, We walk to the river, side by side, Where mud and serpents do not swat, But lead us with faith, to a brighter day.

For baptism is not just of water and land, But of hearts united, hand in hand.

In the James River, souls find their place, In the grace of God's unending embrace.

WORKSHOP

Join us in celebrating National Poetry Month with a unique twist!

We will host a protest poetry workshop led by gifted poet, Dorothy M. Rice, Ty’Leik Chambers, and emerging AMMDPGP Student Ambassador poets.

The participatory workshop is designed to help you, adults and youth, creatively express your right to an environmentally safe community.

1869 Anderson Highway l Cumberland, VA 23040

https:tinyurl.com/ammdpgpeventsreg

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PIECE TOGETHER HISTORY WITH OUR CUSTOM “PARTNERS IN PHILANTHROPY” PUZZLES! Discover the joy of learning and play with our exclusive “Partners in Philanthropy” historical puzzles, inspired by our forthcoming series. Animating Cumberland’s Black History, funded by a Virginia Humanities grant, has fueled TJ Green’s creation of short films that vividly bring to life the history of Bethlehem School and other sites, enhanced with feedback from the Education Committee to include period-accurate details and historical photographs.

These vibrant, educational puzzles celebrate the rich legacy of philanthropy and community-building in Black history, making them perfect for elementary-aged students.

Available in two options: • 30-piece puzzles for younger learners • 110-piece puzzles for a more advanced challenge Perfect for classrooms, after-school programs, or family game nights, these puzzles combine fun with meaningful lessons about history and teamwork. Every piece brings the past to life and supports the ongoing work of the AMMD Pine Grove Project. Order your puzzle today and help us preserve history while creating learning opportunities for the next generation! Also, stay tuned for the adult puzzles which are coming soon!

TO ORDER-CLICK THE LINK:

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PILLAR III: written by Muriel Miller Branch

HISTORY AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION

written by: Muriel Miller Branch l photo credits: Sonja BW

The History and Historic Preservation Committee continues to explore both traditional and non-traditional methods for preserving the structures, stories, and historic & cultural resources in the Pine Grove community.

Since December 2024, the committee has been actively engaged in writing grants that will tie some

of our projects together to tell a more comprehensive story. We oversaw the successful completion of

the National Park Service Stabilization construction work, which was completed by Frank Saul Construction

under the professional eye of Jody Lahendro, Preservation Architect. Finally, we received authorization from the National Park Service to install temporary safety handrails for both sets of steps.

Mr. William Johnson, a local contractor, has been contracted to install the handrails.

Revealing Our Rural Cultural Heritage Project

The $50,000 African American Cultural History Fund will support the “on the ground” preparatory work

for the professional survey of the historic district required by the Department of Historic Resources and National Park Service. In a recent meeting, the grant team, led by the Project Manager, Sonja BranchWilson laid the groundwork for implementing the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s

“Revealing Our Rural Cultural Heritage.” Over the course of a month, the budget was reworked several times to reflect the huge reduction in the amount requested and the amount awarded.

The Scope of Work was also revised to limit the original deliverables. Duties for contractors and consultants

were written, and staff will be onboarded in April 2025. Stay tuned for some exciting events coming Summer 2025.

History in Our Backyard

Sonja is reactivating the History in Our Backyard with the Student Ambassadors. (click for video footage)

(click for video footage) Justin Reid and Muriel Branch answer numerous questions from audience

The map created of the district we are working to get designated.as a Rural Historic District.

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ORAL HISTORY PROJECT COLLABORATION

click to view a video about the project.

The Pine Grove Getting Word Oral History Project is undoubtedly the most exciting preservation initiative so

far this year! It is a collaboration between AMMD Pine Grove Project, and the Monticello Getting Word African

American Oral History Project. Jenna Owens, Aurianna Woods, Director, and Ty’Leik Chambers have teamed

up with several members of the History and Historic Preservation Committee to collect oral narratives, first from Pine Grove alumni, and then from others closely associated with the Pine Grove community.

These oral narratives will be transcribed, archived and made accessible to the narrators, and their

families in perpetuity! This project is exciting and essential, as the oral history narratives will inform the

Pine Grove School rural historic district nomination, as it is a part of the cultural survey process, the adaptive reuse of Pine Grove School and grounds (conceptual design); and future programming at the site.

Please sign up to be interviewed; they will come to you or do a virtual interview to make it convenient.

Your story is vital to the Pine Grove community’s story–and Cumberland County’s story.

Interviewed!!!

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ORAL HISTORY PROJECT COLLABORATION CON’T

click to view a video about the project.

“You have a story to tell.... make it a part of a permanent record!”

Jenna Owens, Public Historian Monticello Getting Word Project Leader Jowens@monticello.org

Aurianna Woods, Manager Getting Word African American Oral History Project Monticello

~Muriel Miller Branch Phone: 1-434-984-9820

Meet the team!

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JUSTICE FILM FESTIVAL - NYC, NY

SIDEWALK FILM FESTIVAL - BIRMINGHAM, AL VIRGINIA FILM FESTIVAL - CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson

The story of Pine Grove School continues to make an

impact far beyond its walls. The short documentary film

“Pine Grove: More Than a School” was proudly featured at the Indie Shorts Film Festival in Charlottesville,

Virginia, drawing attention to the rich history and legacy of this historic Tuskegee-Rosenwald School.

Representing AMMD Pine Grove Project at the event were Justin Reid and Muriel Miller Branch, both of whom are featured in the film and served as panelists during the post-screening discussion. Their insights into the

importance of preserving Pine Grove School and sharing

the stories of historically Black educational institutions, as well as the importance of advocacy for protecting and preserving Black historic spaces, provided a powerful

perspective for festival attendees. Also in attendance was Sonja Branch-Wilson, showing her continued support for the project and the preservation of Pine Grove’s legacy.

The film was featured as part of a curated block of short

films that highlight underrepresented voices and stories of resilience and community. “Pine Grove: More Than a School” stood out for its compelling storytelling and

heartfelt tribute to the former students, families, and the

ten (10) educators who made Pine Grove School a pillar of strength, learning, and pride.

The AMMD Pine Grove Project is honored to have its work recognized in such a meaningful space, and we remain

committed to ensuring the voices of our past continue to inspire generations to come.

Always great to run into friends!!! During the film festival we got to grab lunch with Samantha Willis.

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“Wow! That was incredibly insightful; I honestly had no

“ Preserving African American structures and

idea of the depth of our family’s heritage in Virginia or

cultural landscapes is a shared responsibility.

the fight against injustice. Thank you for sharing the

Pine Grove: More Than a School documents the

story.”

dedication of a broad community to create a

- S. Berry, New Jersey (descendant)

sustainable model to elevate these spaces that

“This is an excellent documentary. It was informative and also invoked much thought. Thank you.”

- M. Parker, Texas (descendant)

have been disrespected and all too often erased from the landscape. Black history is American history and must be preserved. This documentary should be required viewing for all–

“This documentary was simply awesome!

most especially local and state decision-makers.

Representatives from all ages and groups featured in

“

the film about Pine Grove School showcased that the

-E. Kostelny, Virginia

legacy continues. We would learn more about our

(retired CEO of Preservation Virginia)

heritage if Pine Grove and other Tuskegee-Rosenwald Schools were still open.”

“Determination. Resilience. Strength. Legacy.

-C. Flood-Liggon, Virginia (descendant)

Watching and learning more about the history

The documentary was absolutely amazing, and each time I watch it, I feel like I'm learning something new.

It taught me about a valuable journey, including the hard work, the Black ancestors of Cumberland County had to take just to have education in their community.

The film showed me the strong fight for equality, preservation, and justice that continues now with the fight against the landfill. Their determination encourages me to continue this path of work, to try to make a change!”

- Kamira Holman, Virginia (County resident) “After watching the video, I now have a deeper understanding of what Pine Grove means to so many. What began as a two-room schoolhouse for African American students has grown into a cornerstone of the community, rich with history and significance.

Despite facing hardships over the years, the people of the Pine Grove community have remained dedicated to preserving its legacy and keeping its spirit alive.” - B. Perry, Jr. (student)

of the historic Pine Grove School and I am inspired that the fight continues to preserve the legacy for future generations!

-L. Gray, Virginia (educator) “All I can say is, Wow! This film was beautifully done. My grandfather, George Washington Epps, Jr., was born in Cumberland in 1909, so there is a strong possibility that he attended Pine Grove! It was very informative. This is just the information that we need to press forward with the fight to preserve our history and our spaces so that our children can pass it to their children.

It is disgusting to see that plans for the landfill are still on the table knowing that burial grounds of enslaved persons, our ancestors, will be disturbed.

-B. Epps, Virginia (descendant)

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THEN AND NOW: THE PROGRESS

AUGUST 2024

DECEMBER 2017

AUGUST 2018

photo credits: Muriel Miller Branch and Niya Bates

AUGUST 2019

JUNE 2021

APRIL 2023

DECEMBER 2022

BIOGRAPHY OF A BLACK COMMUNITY: 1920-1960

by Muriel Miller Branch

A trailblazer's tale continues with AMMD Pine Grove Project’s President, Sonja Branch-Wilson's, 2023 selection as an inaugural fellow for Preservation Virginia's African American Fellows Program. Out of 40 applicants, only three were chosen, including Sonja, whose trade name "SonietheConnectaholic" exemplifies her passion for connecting people and researching genealogical and community ties. This opportunity was a natural progression for her research project, "Funeral Programs: The Biography of a Black Community."

Her investment in historic preservation began in childhood, fueled by a strong curiosity about her family's history and the stories passed down by the only set grandparents she knew, Frank Adolph and Missouri Virginia Miller. She gained a deeper understanding of her ancestors, their struggles, sacrifices, and the wisdom they left behind. However, as elders pass away, so do their stories unless they are recorded. For over 20 years, Sonja has been doing genealogical research, focusing mainly on her ancestral home in Cumberland County, VA. Her research project, "Funeral Programs and Records: From the 1920s to the 1960s," examines and extrapolates biographical details from funeral programs and records to connect people to places within the Pine Grove Rural Historic District.

Her project will consist of three phases. The first phase involves digitizing funeral programs and records from funeral homes and community members. The data collected will be used to make place-specific connections to the surrounding ethnographic cultural landscape and historical sites. This will "revive the voices" of those who once lived, worked, worshiped, and were educated in the community. The first phase will use a combination of descriptive, historical, field research, and digital humanities methods.

Sonja is working on multiple long-term goals for her project ranging from a story-mapping project, a database, to a published work, and more! To participate or host a “scanning party” please use the information below to contact “SonietheConnectaholic”.

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The Environmental and Social Justice Committee’s motto is, “Educate, Engage, Advocate.”

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PILLAR IV:

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

written by: Muriel Miller Branch

May 2024 kicked off an especially active season for the Environmental and Social Justice Committee, as we elevated our efforts to be more visible in

the communities we serve, and to make real our motto to Educate, Engage, Advocate. Our goal is to equip stakeholders and allies with the necessary

tools to advocate for themselves against the proposed Green Ridge landfill.

Eleven months later, we are in the home stretch with more opportunities to raise our concerns in person or in writing to keep Cumberland County free of toxic waste.

AMMD Pine Grove Project needs your help more than ever to help make some noise, and change some minds!

In November 2024, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issued a conditional letter of approval for Part A of the solid waste permit application,

which allowed Green Ridge to move on to Part B application; the technical design of the landfill. If the entire application is approved, a final permit will be issued and Green Ridge can begin building and operating its landfill in Cumberland.

BUT in order to move forward, Green Ridge also needs approval from Cumberland

County. Green Ridge must go before the Cumberland County Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisor to obtain a Conditional Use Permit to operate a landfill at the site. For the past two months, Green Ridge has been “workshopping” the Conditional Use Permit with the County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors. We have been able to listen in, but not speak at those meetings.

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That’s about to change soon, as the process will be open for public comment.

There are two public hearings for the Conditional Use Permit scheduled to be held at the Cumberland County High School on April 21st and May 13th.

Both will allow community members and property owners to comment.

We want to fill the cafetorium with supporters to show a unified resistance to the landfill.

The public comment period provides our community with another opportunity to share our authentic voices and tell our stories about how a landfill will harm us, our families, our water and air, our health, income, and quality of life.

Over the next five weeks, AMMDPGP will be providing you with facts that you can use, along with your personal stories, to convince the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors to VOTE NO on approving the Green Ridge Landfill Conditional Use Permit.

We’re incredibly grateful to Cale Jaffe and the cadre of law students at the UVA Environmental and Community Engagement Law Clinic who have represented AMMD Pine Grove Project since 2020, the Southern Environmental Law Clinic (SELC) who helped us navigate the complex, multilevel jurisdictional levels of the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) solid waste permitting process, and the incredible and consistent historic preservation guidance from Preservation Virginia. Each has laid out the facts in lay terms to help us clearly and convincingly state our case.

While we encourage you to attend these public hearings in person, you can also voice your concerns as community members by submitting comments via email to GreenRidgeComments@cumberlandcounty.virginia.gov.

ARE THE OF

HEARTBEAT Get them here!!!

Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) Letter and UVA Law Clinic Community Comment Sheet

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Grants fuel our

GROWTH

YOU ARE THE MISSING PIECE..

Hey there, Fabulous Readers!

Organizations do not run themselves, and that’s for sure. Are you ready to make a difference and “learn by doing”?

Join an AMMDPGP committee and unleash your creativity while connecting with like-minded individuals who share your passion for history and community! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer, we want YOU to bring your unique flair to the table.

Imagine brainstorming exciting events, sharing innovative ideas, and seeing your visions come to life. Plus, it's a fantastic opportunity to meet new friends and network with fellow enthusiasts! Don’t worry if you’re not sure where to start—we’re all about collaboration, training, and believe that every voice matters.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today, and let’s make a difference in historic preservation! Your ideas could be the spark that ignites our next big project! Interested? Visit our website: www.ammdpinegroveproject.com, click GET INVOLVED and complete the form; or email us at: info@ammdpinegroveproject.com Our dynamic committee chairpersons cannot wait to welcome you to their TEAM!!!

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND PROGRAMS

FINANCE & FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE

4th Tuesday of the month 7:30 pm

TECHNOLOGY & PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE

HISTORY & HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE

2nd Tuesday of the month 6:30 pm

3rd Monday of the month 6:00 pm

4th Tuesday of the month 6:15 pm

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

4th Thursday of the month 6:30 pm

Last Thursday. Bi-Monthly 6:30 pm

BUILDING AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE

1st Monday, Bi-monthly 6:30 pm

Contact Us 1.202.643.AMMD (2663)

Meeting Dates/Times TBA

YOUTH COUNCIL (STUDENT AMBASSADORS)

2nd Sunday, Bi-monthly 3:00 PM

Email Visit Our Website www.ammdpinegroveproject.com ammdpinegroveproject@gmail.com

THE PINE GROVE GAZETTE

AMMDPGP

VOL. 5 ISSUE 1

FEATURED (for a snippet, click)

THE PINE GROVE GAZETTE

Membership Levels and Dues (welcome letter, membership card, membership pin, and early-bird event registration.)

Student (to age 18): $20.00 Alumni $25.00 Community Descendant $40.00 General: $50.00 General (Family): $75.00 Max. : 2 adults + 1 child or 1 adult + 3 children (children must be student age)

Corporate/Organization: $150.00 Lifetime Membership: $500.00

VOL 5 ISSUE 1

How Do I Join, You Ask? You Can:

SCAN the QR CODE VISIT our WEBSITE or

EMAIL US ammdpinegroveproject@gmail.com

Subject line: Membership

THE PINE GROVE GAZETTE

VOL 5 ISSUE 1

2024-2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sonja Branch-Wilson, President Leadership Development Student Ambassadors Branding and The Pine Grove Gazette

Rev. Tammy Mitchell, Corporate Community Liaison

Cheryl Belt-Jackson, Vice President

Diane Joyner

Membership

Bill Obrochta, Education

Dr. Lakshmi Fjord, Enviornmental and Social Justice

Charlene Flood-Liggon, Secretary (Corresponding and Recording)

Alesha Holman, Member At Large

Genay Hines, Treasurer

Muriel Miller Branch, President Emeritus

Finance & Fundraising

Community Engagement

Technology Website

History & Historical Preservation EJ and SJ

Fannie Robinson, Member At Large

Vacant, Member At Large (former seat of Lloyd James)

T EH E P EI NGER OGVRE OGVAEZ EGT A TH PIN T EZ E T T E

VVOOLL 45 II SS SSUUEE 1 2

2024-2025 YOUTH COUNCIL

Kamria Holman, President

Jamiya Smith, Vice President Communications Team

Nashai Jean-Davis, Corresponding Secretary

Vacant -Treasurer

Micah Richard, Historian

Sydney Caban, Sgt-At-Arms

@AMMDPGP.YOUTHCOUNCIL

THE PINE GROVE GAZETTE

ISSUE 5 VOL 1

“BOLD IDEAS. BEAUTIFULLY EXECUTED” FOR CONSULTATION OR PRICING, CONTACT: Uniquelyyours@consultant.com

973.329.1100

THE PINE GROVE GAZETTE

ISSUE 5 VOL 1

Website: www.ammdpinegroveproject.com Email: ammdpinegroveproject@gmail.com info@ammdpinegroveproject.com Phone: 1.202.643.AMMD (2663) Mailing address: P.O. Box 28332 I Henrico, VA 23228 Facebook: AMMD Pine Grove Project YouTube: AMMD Pine Grove @ammdpinegrove2444

Instagram: @projectpinegrove

Bethlehem Baptist Church Black History Museum of Virginia Brown Grove C&F Bank Cumberland Branch NAACP Cumberland Historical Society Cumberland County Public Library Cumberland County Public Schools Department of Historic Resources Encyclopedia Virginia Getting Word African American Oral History Project (Monticello) Griffin Boulevard Archives Jackson Design Groupt.

Mt. Olive Baptist Church Namati National Trust for Historic Preservation New Hope Baptist Church Preservation Virginia Scuffletown Project Sierra Club of Virginia Southern Environmental Law Center Southern Poverty Law Center University of Richmond University of Virginia Law Clinic Virginia Interfaith Power and Light Virginia Humanities Virginia Organizing Virginia Outdoors Foundation