Pine Grove Gazette_ V.5 Issue 1

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THE P THE P THE P

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

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 landuse 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 alerts, send a message ammdpinegroveproject@gmail.com.

With strength, solidarity, and always looking ahead,

~Sonja

PILLAR I: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

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.

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 organized by the elementary school’s librarian, 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)

Muriel Miller Branch
Kamira Holmandocent for the event
Minnie Tate enjoying the interaction during Read Across America Day!
The students are all ears and engaged as the Student Ambassadors read to them
Jayla and Kheaton prepare to read
Hailey is reading to her group of students
Ready, Set, Read!
Micah is recording his fellow Ambassadors in action!
Joanne Petty and Babette Boatwright make sure all books are accounted for

CCONNECT2TECH ONNECT2TECH

Bridging Generations T

e Launch of Connect2Tech

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 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 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

Practice, practice, practice by the Cohort members
Trainer, Mary Jean Irving, shares tech tips from the manual
Trainer, Joanne S Petty, shows learning is FUN!

The History of The History of Cumberland’s Cumberland’s Black Churches Black Churches

Founding years between: 1861-1910

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 lusion, Karisma stunned the audience with a powerful, impromptu rendition of d” her vocal ability that brought the crowd to its feet and

l photo credits: AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors and Essex Finney

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 HamptonChildress 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)

“LIFT EV’RY VOICE AND SING, ‘TIL EARTH AND HEAVEN RING”

(click for video footage)

“LET OUR REJOICING RISE HIGH AS THE LIST'NING SKIES”

Ja’Miya takes a quick selfie in her time period attire
Hailey read her original poem about New Hope.
Nashai thanked Mr Obrochta, her presentation mentor.
Karisma SAANNNG during their Mt Calvary presentation
Aaliyah presents history of Tear Wallet Baptist Church
Nashai thanks Chelsea Goode for her hard work.
Dyasia is excited about her presentation!
THANK YOU, Pastor Hampton!!
Dekota Goode, vocalist for the event.
Kamira’s dynamic presentation for Mt Olive
Kamira had a special edition of The Central Call
Jayla creatively presents

NOW IS THE TIME.... NOW IS THE TIME.....

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!!! SCAN TO JOIN!!!

Chance Smith Jayla Augustin
Dyasia Boatwright Aaliyah Minter
Kheaton Lynch Karisma Neal

Essay Contest Winner PILLAR II:

Sophomore Cumberland High School

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

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

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

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

A Church's Song, In The Heart of Virginia

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

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

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

Baptisms In the James

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

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

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

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!

PILLAR III: HISTORY

AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION

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

Justin Reid and Muriel Branch answer numerous questions from audience
The map created of the district we are working to get designatedas a Rural Historic District (click for video footage) (click for video footage)

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.

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 wa 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.

written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson
SIDEWALK FILM FESTIVAL - BIRMINGHAM, AL
VIRGINIA FILM FESTIVAL - CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA
Always great to run into friends!!! During the film festival we got to grab lunch with Samantha Willis

“Wow! Thatwasincrediblyinsightful;Ihonestlyhadno ideaofthedepthofourfamily’sheritageinVirginiaor thefightagainstinjustice Thankyouforsharingthe story”

-S.Berry,NewJersey(descendant)

“Thisisanexcellentdocumentary Itwasinformative andalsoinvokedmuchthought Thankyou” -M.Parker,Texas(descendant)

“Thisdocumentarywassimplyawesome! Representativesfromallagesandgroupsfeaturedin thefilmaboutPineGroveSchoolshowcasedthatthe legacycontinues Wewouldlearnmoreaboutour heritageifPineGroveandotherTuskegee-Rosenwald Schoolswerestillopen”

-C.Flood-Liggon, Virginia(descendant)

Thedocumentarywasabsolutelyamazing,andeach timeIwatchit,IfeellikeI'mlearningsomethingnew Ittaughtmeaboutavaluablejourney,includingthe hardwork,theBlackancestorsofCumberland County hadtotakejusttohaveeducationintheircommunity. Thefilmshowedmethestrong fightforequality, preservation,andjusticethatcontinuesnowwiththe fightagainstthelandfill. Theirdetermination encouragesmetocontinuethispathofwork,totryto makeachange!”

-KamiraHolman,Virginia(Countyresident)

“Afterwatchingthevideo,Inowhaveadeeperunderstandingof whatPineGrovemeanstosomany Whatbeganasatwo-room schoolhouseforAfricanAmericanstudentshasgrownintoa cornerstoneofthecommunity,richwithhistoryandsignificance Despitefacinghardshipsovertheyears,thepeopleofthePine Grovecommunityhaveremaineddedicatedtopreservingits legacyandkeepingitsspiritalive”-B.Perry,Jr.(student)

“ Preserving African American structures and cultural landscapes is a shared responsibility Pine Grove: More Than a School documents the dedication of a broad community to create a sustainable model to elevate these spaces that 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–most especially local and state decision-makers

-E. Kostelny, Virginia (retired CEO of Preservation Virginia)

“Determination Resilience Strength Legacy Watching and learning more about the history 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)

DECEMBER 2017

AUGUST 2018

AUGUST 2019

JUNE 2021

DECEMBER 2022

photo credits: Muriel Miller Branch and Niya Bates

BIOGRAPHY OF A BLACK COMMUNITY: 1920-1960

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”

The Environmental and S Justice Committee’s mott

“Educate, Engage, Advo

PILLAR IV:

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 l dfill.

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

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

vember 2024, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issued ditional letter of approval for Part A of the solid waste permit application, allowed Green Ridge to move on to Part B application; the technical design 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 fill at the site For the past two months, Green Ridge has been “workshopping” Conditional Use Permit with the County Planning Commission and Board of ervisors We have been able to listen in, but not speak at those meetings

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.

Grantsfuelour Grantsfuelour GROWTH GROWTH

YOUARETHE MISSINGPIECE...

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

AMMDPGPFEATURED

2024-2025

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

Cheryl Belt-Jackson, Vice President Membership

Diane Joyner

Charlene Flood-Liggon, Secretary (Corresponding and Recording)

Genay Hines, Treasurer Finance & Fundraising Technology Website

Rev Tammy Mitchell, Corporate Community Liaison

Bill Obrochta, Education

Social Justice

Muriel Miller Branch, President Emeritus Community Engagement History & Historical Preservation

EJ and SJ

Dr Lakshmi Fjord, Enviornmental and
Alesha Holman, Member At Large
Fannie Robinson, Member At Large
Vacant, Member At Large (former seat of Lloyd James)

President

Jamiya Smith, Vice President Communications Team

Nashai Jean-Davis, Corresponding Secretary

Kamria Holman,
Micah Richard, Historian
Sydney Caban, Sgt-At-Arms
Vacant -Treasurer

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