V.4 Issue 2- Pine Grove Gazette

THE PINE GROVE GAZETTE

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THE PINE GROVE Message from the I am pleased to extend my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations for the tremendous efforts and achievements of this past quarter. Dedication and hard work have not only propelled this project forward but have also set a high standard for future initiatives.

The progress made on the AMMD Pine Grove Project stands as a testament to the power of teamwork. ensuring that our work reflects our core pillars: community engagement, education, environmental justice, and history and historical preservation.

Community Engagement: Our active involvement with local residents and stakeholders has fostered a sense of ownership and pride within the community. By hosting regular meetings and feedback sessions, we have ensured that their voices are heard and valued.

Education: The educational programs we’ve integrated into the project have not only raised awareness about Pine Grove's historical significance but also inspired future generations to continue the work of preservation and environmental stewardship.

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Environmental Justice: By prioritizing sustainability and equity, we have addressed environmental disparities and ensured that the benefits of our work are shared equitably among all community members.

History and Historical Preservation: Through meticulous research and preservation efforts, we have honored Pine Grove's rich history and ensured that its legacy is preserved for future generations.

The accomplishments we’ve seen this quarter underscore the importance of teamwork. Through our collective effort, we are able to execute our work effectively, not just within the Pine Grove community but throughout our organization.

As we enter the halfway mark of 2024, our motto, "Leading with Vision and Impact," will continue to be our guiding principle. This motto encapsulates three key elements that are critical for our success: 1. Strategic Foresight: By leading with vision, we ensure that we are not only reacting to present challenges but also anticipating future opportunities and obstacles. This proactive approach allows us to craft long-term strategies that drive sustainable growth and success.

2. Measurable Impact Our focus on impact means that we are committed to delivering tangible, measurable results. This accountability not only strengthens our organization but also builds trust with our stakeholders, who are closely watching and critiquing our performance.

3. Inspirational Leadership: Leading with vision and impact requires inspirational leadership at all levels. By embodying our values and demonstrating a commitment to excellence, we inspire those around us to strive for greatness and contribute to our shared mission.

As we move forward, will will keep our eyes fixed on the horizon, guided by our vision and driven by the impact we aim to achieve. Together, we can continue to build an organization that not only meets the needs of today but also paves the way for a brighter, more equitable future. We hope that this edition of The Pine Grove Gazette will enlighten you about our work and encourage you to #joinusaswegrow.

Looking ahead,

~Sonja

The recent loss of our dear board member and Pine Grove alum, Lloyd James, has deeply impacted our community. Lloyd made invaluable contributions to our organization that will be remembered fondly by all.

Lloyd was a gentle individual with a heart full of kindness. His sincere generosity, unwavering dedication, and his memorable laughter touched the lives of everyone he encountered. Whether he was planning, coordinating, or simply sharing stories, Lloyd infused every interaction with genuine warmth and authenticity.

Lloyd's legacy at Pine Grove is characterized by his steadfast dedication and empathy. His actions have positively influenced our community and will serve as a lasting source of inspiration for our future endeavors.

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PILLAR I: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT written by: Muriel Miller Branch

The Community Engagement and Program Committee has taken “engagement” to a whole new level, and the beneficiaries are Cumberland County residents.

Our committee is the driving force behind community events and programs that educate and engage our community of care.

Since January 2024, the committee has spearheaded and/or Songstress Ty White and hubby supported the efforts of other committees in planning and executing enjoy the program alongside “We Lived It! Voices of the Civil Rights Movement” for Cumberland County Preservation Architect Jody Lahendro!

Middle and High School students.

We took the lead in planning the Restoration Celebration to kick off the start of stabilization construction at Pine Grove School in March. We played an integral role in the first Public Premiere of Pine Grove: More Than a School documentary to commemorate Dr. Booker T. Washington’s Birthday on April 5, 2024, and on April 18, 2024, we participated in the Lucyville historical marker ceremony, which was hosted by Lewis Longenecker, CUCPS History Teacher and his students. Niya Bates and Muriel spoke at Olli in Charlottesville, Virginia about our fight for environmental justice and our preservation work.

In May, the committee worked with Graphic Artist Veronica Jackson to bring her Virginia Humanities project, A Permanent Record to fruition.

Sewing Circles were held at Bethlehem Baptist Church during the week of May 6-9, 2024. Banners bearing the names of 199 students and teachers at Pine Grove School were constructed, literally “stitched” together, by members of the community and a former student: Katherine Bolling, Connie Carter, Fluorine Doughty, and Diane Joyner.

The Committee worked with the EJ and Social Justice Committee to give Cumberland residents a forum in which to voice their concerns about the landfill. Numerous action items are now on the drawing board, promising a brighter future for our community.

Finally, the committee was instrumental in planning, collaboratively with the Cumberland Branch NAACP, a program entitled Stitching Together History and Community at its third annual Juneteenth Festival on Saturday, June 15th, at the Bright Hope Center.

Our work is not limited to events. The community is and will continue to be an integral part of our ongoing initiatives. Building on the momentum and enthusiasm we have gained in 2023-24, we are looking with great anticipation to GREATER! Join us as we work…

Niya Bates at the OLLI conference where she and Muriel Miller Branch were a dynamic duo, co-presenting at the DISTINGUISHED SPEAKERS SERIES. Alumni from Pine Grove are confetti covered as they commemorate their school's renovation!

(L-R): Florine Doughty, Curtis James, Bruce Tate.

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written by: Ja’Miya Smith, Student Ambassador

On the very last day of February 2024, a panel of former Tuskegee Rosenwald Community School students transported CUCPS Middle and High School students back to the 1950s-1960s when Black students faced segregation, were denied entry to schools, experienced segregated seating on buses, and restricted access to most public facilities because of their race.

Students were enthralled by the panelists’ lived experiences as they shared their personal experiences and stories that offered gripping, first-person insights into the Civil Rights period. Teacher, Andrew Ronemus, coordinated the event within the school. Panelists included: Reverend Everett Berryman (R.R.Moton), Katherine Bolling (New Hope), Joanne Petty (Turkey Cock), and Michael Scales (Pine Grove). The Co-Moderators for the events were: Muriel Miller Branch (Pine Grove) and Jamiya Smith (CHS Student).

Serving as a Co-Moderator at this event with distinguished historians who “Lived It Live” during these life changing moments was both an honor and a significant accomplishment. It felt surreal to engage with Black individuals who experienced the Civil Rights Movement firsthand, offering us a broad glimpse into their youth.

Their insights into the era’s diversity compared to today were truly remarkable.

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In the Quiet Shade of Ancient Trees written by the: AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors

In the quiet shade of ancient trees, Where whispers linger on the breeze, There lies a tale of courage bold, Of dreams pursued in days of old.

written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson

Beneath the sky's vast, endless blue, Where hope ignites and dreams renew, On March 24, 2024 we gathered on the grounds of Pine Grove School to Our ancestors, with hearts aflame, commemorate the significance of Pine Grove School. It was a great gathering of Built paths to knowledge, staked their claim.

alumni, community members, and stakeholders present as we focused on the 4 R’s: Rebirth, Remembrance, Restoration, and Recommitment. The event marked the "stabilization construction kick-off" at the historic Pine Grove School which has been the heart and hub of the community for generations and we are working to reinvigorate its vitality by “preserving history, expanding community”.

it is imperative that we also pay homage to the visionary leadership of Dr. Booker T. Washington. Dr. Washington's tireless advocacy for the education of Black students laid the foundation for the development of one and two-room schoolhouses like Pine Grove School across the South. Dr. Washington understood the power of education as a tool for liberation and empowerment. He believed that access to quality education was essential for the advancement of Black communities, and he dedicated his life to making this vision a reality.

Through his efforts, Dr. Washington not only championed the construction of schools like Pine Grove but also inspired generations of educators and leaders to continue his work. His legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative impact that one individual can have in shaping the course of history.

As we remember Pine Grove School and the sacrifices of those who built and sustained it, let us also honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Booker T. Washington.

May his vision for educational equality continue to guide us as we strive to create a more just and equitable society for all.

In Pine Grove School's hallowed halls, Echoes of their voices call, Through trials faced with steadfast grace, They carved a path to a brighter place.

Their sacrifice, a beacon bright, Guiding us through darkest night, Their legacy, a sacred flame, Ignites our hearts with pride and aim.

Let us remember, let us proclaim, The educators, the unsung name, Their spirit lives in every child, In every dream, unreconciled.

So let us cherish, let us hold, The stories of the brave and bold, For in their memory, we find our light, Guiding us through darkest night.

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written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson

On April 5, 2024, the Robert Russa Moton Museum auditorium buzzed with excitement as a packed house gathered for the premiere of "Pine Grove: More Than A School," produced by Departure Point Films. This dynamite documentary beautifully tells the story of our historically Black community and the education they received in Tuskegee Rosenwald Community Schools.

Every portion of the event was planned with intentionality: The date - the anniversary of Dr. Booker T. Washington’s birth The location - The epicenter of the Massive Resistance Movement, 60 years ago this year.

The keynote speaker - a renowned scholar and Dr. Booker T. Washington reincarnated!

Dr. Kwesi Daniels took us to proverbial “historical church” during the premiere event. In his own words: "”In 1912, Dr. Booker T. Washington, president of the Tuskegee Institute and the nation’s leading Black educator, and Julius Rosenwald, chairman of Sears Roebuck & Company and prominent philanthropist, launched a program that helped build nearly 5,000 schools for Black children across the segregated South. While this was not the initial rural school building program for Tuskegee Institute, it became the most prolific. Washington once remarked, "The Negro farmer who owns his land is becoming more prosperous."

This quote encapsulates the ethos behind the TuskegeeRosenwald Community schools, which sought to empower African American communities throughout the segregated South.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and supported this significant event. Your presence helped honor and preserve our rich heritage and educational legacy.

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written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson

On June 19th, we commemorate the long-awaited freedom of our ancestors and honor their resilience and courage.

As we celebrate, let's remember that our FREEDOM is a precious LEGACY, entrusted to us by those who endured UNIMAGINABLE hardships. Therefore, it is our solemn responsibility to reflect on their sacrifices, remember their stories, and continue to educate future generations about the TRUE HISTORY of our journey toward equality.

Each time, June 19th arrives on the calenda, let it inspire us to act with purpose, advocate for justice, and build a future where freedom and equality are realities for all.

In honoring our ancestors, we honor ourselves and the future we are creating TOGETHER! As always, I invite you to #joinusaswegrow; what a better way to honor the ancestors.

The Arc: A new horizon, meaning fresh opportunities and promising futures for Black Americans The Star: A nod to the Lone Star State, but it also stands for the freedom of every Black American in all 50 states The Burst: The outline surrounding the star is meant to reflect a nova (or new star) which represents a new beginning for all Edna’s Variety Shop (Proprietor: Edna Miller Gordon)

Enjoying conversation with fellow Cumberland natives, including Author, Barbara Crump

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PILLAR II: EDUCATION

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Join the AMMD Pine Grove Project Education Committee!

Calling all passionate educators— current and retired! Are you ready to make a monumental impact?

We're on the hunt for dedicated dynamo teachers to join our Education Committee.

Help us pioneer progress and elevate young minds by broadening their horizons through innovative, non-traditional means.

Be a catalyst for change, and let's create a brighter future together.

Let's innovate, inspire, and ignite the spark of learning beyond the classroom. Join us in shaping tomorrow's leaders today!

It Is Written: Our 2024 Essay Contest

written by: Dorothy Marie Rice

The education committee of AMMD Pine Grove project has forged a special bond with Cumberland County Public Schools. Superintendent Dr. Chip has welcomed our collaborations with the middle and high school where we have been well received by faculty, staff, and students. Particularly, we have sponsored essay contests for three years in a row. These contests provide students with opportunities to creatively use their composition skills, and history studies.

Our goal is to support the teachers in these endeavors and not to create extra work unrelated to their curriculum. During these three years, we have noted strengths and liabilities and are willing to assist the teachers and students in these endeavors. We also hope to increase student participation.

The essay prompts cooked up by the committee were......

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Middle School Prompt

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Aside from Barbara Johns, who do you feel was the African-American that has had the biggest positive impact in Southside Virginia regarding any of the following: Voting Rights, Education, Community Service, or Military Service?

High School Prompt

Prince Edward County experienced civil disobedience for the sake of equality, represented far more than one county in Brown v. Board of Education.

Barbara Johns was a leader in this cause. Huge implications for Southside Virginia, and for all the United States, resulted, and had global implications for fairness and inclusion were also observed; for example the statue of Barbara Johns replacing the Robert E. Lee Statue in 2021.

Why has the exchange of statues in the United States Capitol Building embodied modern understanding of equality?

2024 HS 1st place Co-Winner Ja’Miya Smith

Pioneering Equality: Barbara Johns and the Civil Disobedience Movement in Prince Edward County (excerpt from Jamiya Smith’s essay) At the forefront of this resistance was Barbara Johns, whose courageous actions and unwavering commitment to equality galvanized her peers and inspired a generation. Barbara Johns, just sixteen years old at the time, played a pivotal role in organizing the student-led protest at Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia, in 1951. Disillusioned by the dilapidated conditions of their segregated school, Barbara and her classmates took matters into their own hands, staging a walkout to demand better facilities and educational opportunities. Their protest caught the attention of the NAACP, which took up their cause and eventually filed a lawsuit that would become one of the five cases consolidated into the landmark Brown v.

Board of Education decision. Barbara's courage and leadership in the face of adversity served as a catalyst for change, inspiring others to join the fight for equality.

Why has the exchange of the statues in the United States Capitol Building embodied modern understanding of equality? (excerpt from DeAndre Brown’s essay) A significant development in the evolution of the Capitol's statues has been the increased representation of women, people of color, and other historically underrepresented groups. In recent years, several states have chosen to replace statues of figures from the past with those who made significant contributions to civil rights, social justice, and other areas historically overlooked or marginalized.

For example, in 2009, Congress approved the replacement of a statue of Confederate leader Edmund Kirby Smith with one of civil rights activist and educator Mary McLeod Bethune, representing Florida in the National Statuary Hall Collection. This decision reflected a broader national reckoning with the legacy of slavery and segregation and a recognition of the importance of honoring individuals who have fought for equality and justice for all Americans.

2024 HS 1st place Co-Winner DeAndre Brown

In 2024, Kinsley Baggett won first place and is pictured with Dorothy Rice and Dr. Chip Jackson, the Superintendent.

2024 MS 2nd place winner Chloe Buckner

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PHILANTHROPY IN MOTION: ANIMATING CUMBERLAND’S BLACK HISTORY written by: Dorothy Marie Rice and Bill Obrochta

We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking initiative to bring Cumberland's rich Black history to life through a series of captivating videos. These animated stories, aimed at elementary-aged students but enjoyable for all, promise to be phenomenal teaching resources that make learning history both engaging and fun.

Terrence Green, Jr., Animator

At the helm of this exciting project is the exceptionally talented Terrence “TJ” Green of TJ’s Animation Studio.

With a deep passion for storytelling and a remarkable gift for animation, TJ brings a unique blend of creativity and technical prowess to our endeavor. His impressive background in animation has seen him create vibrant, compelling visuals that captivate audiences of all ages.

To make this project a resounding success, we need your help! We are on the lookout for creative scriptwriters to help develop the remaining scripts for these educational videos. Whether you are a teacher with a knack for storytelling, a creative writer, or a talented teen eager to contribute, we invite you to join us in this exciting venture.

Interested individuals should send an email to ammdpinegroveproject@gmail.com. Together, we can animate Cumberland’s Black history and inspire future generations with stories of resilience, achievement, and community.

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AMMDPGPSA “WE HAVE BEEN ON THE MOVE” written by: Kamira Holman, Student Ambassador

I am the current Vice President of the AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors and I would like to written by: KamirainHolman express the enjoyment of participating the events during our last quarter. My fellow Student Ambassadors and I did an amazing job during our last quarter. We had plenty of eventful and fun moments, like our Restoration Celebration, which was held in March at our very own Pine Grove School. It was a very exciting day for all who attended and watched online. We even enjoyed a phenomenal guest singer, Miss Ty White, who gave us an amazing solo.

Next, we participated in the Documentary Premiere in April, which was a blast! We enjoyed the delicious food by Ernest Toney Catering, the guest speaker, Dr. Kwesi Daniels, and we, the Student Ambassadors, had major roles in this program. Most of all, we enjoyed the documentary! This film is awe-inspiring; if you have yet to see it, register for the next public viewing. Again, a HUGE THANKS from the AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors to Dr. Daniels and his family for traveling so far, the photographer, videographer, caterer, the R.R. Moton museum, and all who contributed to making the documentary possible!

Dr. Daniels is such a great guy! He is friendly, knows his history - for sure, and inspires young people. We really hope our AMMDPGPSA can visit him at Tuskegee University one day.

I also wanted to spotlight our leadership development training. We have been consistently working hard under the amazing help and direction of Ms. Sonja Branch-Wilson. She works with us in a loving and caring manner to help support the group but also ensures we have fun and enjoy ourselves all while ensuring we are learning and growing. I would like to personally thank ALL of the members of AMMDPGP who have taken time to help our youth group. You guys are very inspiring and we definitely enjoy being included and able to work alongside a group of amazing, wise, dedicated, and responsible adults.

My name is Micah Richard, and I am proud to be one of the newest AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors!

Honestly, when I first got involved with the group, I was not really sure what I was signing up for; I knew it was related to history and leadership. However, the amazing people within the AMMD Pine Grove Project organization helped me understand what this amazing organization is all about; and it was no turning back for me.

Micah Richard

The historic Pine Grove School is a huge part of Black history in Cumberland County, VA, and I am glad to be a part of Pine Grove's preservation effort. Joining the AMMDPGPSA’s means being a part of something bigger than myself and working with others to keep a crucial part of my County’s history ALIVE!.

Many in my community knew or had heard of somebody who attended Pine Grove School.

I look forward to learning more about the history of my area and hopefully leaving a lasting impression.

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PILLAR III: HISTORY & HISTORIC PRESERVATION written by Muriel Miller Branch

Rural Historic District AMMD Pine Grove Project was a finalist for the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American History and Culture Action Fund grant written by Lakshmi Fjord and Muriel Branch with an assist from Genay Hines, Sandra Bolling, and Sonja Branch-Wilson. The grant application was returned to us for revisions, particularly to narrow our focus. The team decided to concentrate on the most expensive part of the RHD nomination process: hiring a survey consultant. With Dr. Andrea Roberts's expert edits, the National Trust okayed the application for resubmission for funding for $75,000!

Oral History Project Justin Reid has arranged for students at Monticello in the Getting Word Program to assist with oral history collection!! They will be available in early July to meet with AMMD Pine Grove Project.

Lucyville Historical Marker: Lewis Longenecker and his students put another community or historical personality on the map with the dedication of a historical marker for Lucyville. There was great press, a great reception, and excellent follow-up activities- June 6, 2024.

UVA Land, Climate and Justice Conference, March 29, 2024 - Muriel and Veronica attended. Muriel taped a segment for Jerry Williams’ Podcast WRIR (97.3 FM).

Roger Munford and Dion Leehoisting the tarp up toward the roof.

Virginia Museum of History and Culture - AMMD Pine Grove Project and four other Tuskegee Rosenwald Community Schools representatives will present at the History Matters Symposium on September 7, 2024.

The proposal was written and approved: “Tuskegee Rosenwald Community Schools: Vibrant Legacies of Creativity and Resiliency.”

VMHC Exhibit (A Better Life for Their Children) Preview and Luncheon was held on Friday, May 24th.

Attending: Muriel Branch, Fluorine Doughty, Veronica Jackson, Michael Scales, Patricia Scales, and Jody Robin (L-R): Michael Scales, Leonard Hawkins, Dion Lee, Stocks. Excellent representation!

Lahendro, Marcel Wilson, and Eugene Shelton

Interviews—Tom Lassiter of Longlfeaf Films interviewed Muriel at the Second Union Rosenwald School Museum on Monday, June 17. Alysia, a journalism student at VCU, interviewed Sonja for a piece in the Cardinal.

Pine Grove School Stabilization- Frank Saul Construction Company is doing the amazing and meticulous work of stabilizing the school under the expert eye of preservation architect, Jody Lahendro. Jody meets with the construction team weekly, and Muriel also meets the team onsite as often as possible.

Stabilization work in being funded by National Parks Service African American Civil Rights grant. We are planning to publish a separate stablization edition of the newsletter in time for our Schoolyard Jamboree this Fall.

Justin Reid has arranged for students at Monticello involved with the Getting Word African American Oral History Project to assist with our AMMD Pine Grove Project alumni and community oral history collection!

Niya Bates once directed the Getting Word African American Oral History Project which started in Michael D. Scales 1993. Getting Word is a growing archive of more than 200 oral histories of people descended from slaves at Monticello. Ms. Bates works to engage local and national audiences in dialogue about Monticello, slavery and its enduring legacies, and race.

The Monticello students will be meeting with leaders of the History and Historic Preservation Committee members in early August. More details to follow.

TO PARTICIPATE CLICK HERE OR SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW Niya Bates is a public historian and doctoral student, featured in the Netflix special "High on the Hog."

Justin G. Reid, Public Historian and Cumberland County Community Descendant

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written by Muriel Miller Branch

Graphic Artist Veronica Jackson , conceived the idea of honoring students and teachers of Pine Grove School by creating six memorial banners to hang in the school once it is restored. Her artistic vision was funded by Virginia Humanities, and brought to life by community sewers at Bethlehem Baptist Church during the week of May 6-9, 2024.

Banners bearing the names of 199 students and teachers at Pine Grove School were constructed, literally “stitched” together, by members of the community and former students: Katherine Bolling, Connie Carter, Fluorine Doughty, and Diane Joyner.

A Permanent Record was unveiled during AMMD Pine Grove’s program entitled Stitching Together History and Community at the Cumberland NAACP third annual Juneteenth Festival on Saturday, June 15th, at the Bright Hope Center. “It’s symbolic of how we’re all connected through community,” Muriel remarked as she gazed at a finished banner, tracing her finger across a line of stitches. “Pine Grove was more than just a school.” To read the full article about the project click here.

President Sonja Branch-Wilson stands in front of one of six memorial banners.

Historic photo of students attending Pine Grove School in the late 1940s

Pine Grove alumni Michael Scales, Muriel Branch, Alfred Austin, Patricia Scales, Alfred Austin and Robin Stocks

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Love, Remember, Honor Roll Call

Written by: Sonja Branch-Wilson and the AMMDPGP Student Ambassadors

Your doors were open from 1917 to '64, A beacon of hope, a sacred door, Through those years, steadfast and true, Teachers of Pine Grove, we remember you.

Ethel R. Smith, Mary E. Gilliam, Names etched in history, their light still gleaming, Mary G. Parker, Mr. B.L. Bezeman, Their dedication is a noble anthem.

Diane Joyner presses seems on banner she stitched together.

Ella Thomas, Kate Brown, Betty G. Scales, In the halls of Pine Grove, their wisdom prevailed, Beatrice Daniels, Marguerite S. Washington, Their legacy endures a lasting connection.

Martha Parker, Aurellia Fleming, Their spirits linger, forever singing, Mr. Harrison Fuller, Mr. Robert C. Scott, Their guidance felt in every thought.

Aretha Thornton Miller, a name to revere, In the hearts of many, her memory is dear because she brought up the rear.

To these educators, we owe a debt, Their lessons learned, we'll never forget.

Alumnae Florine Doughty puts last touches on the banner she stitched.

In Pine Grove School, their voices resound, Their teachings echo all around, Their legacy lives on in each student's tale, In every dream that dares to set sail.

THE SEWING CIRCLE

Katherine Bolling, Sewer

Visual Artist Veronica Jackson making sure it all measures up, as Connie Carter prepares her sewing station.

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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PILLAR IV: ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE written by: Dr. Lakshmi Fjord

Muriel gets the Chat and Chew started

The Environmental and Social Justice Committee’s motto is,

“Educate, Engage, Advocate.”

CCLA’s President, Betty Myers brings the FACTS

CCLA and Pine Grove members showed up!

Putting our motto into action, we have increased our presence in the community, such as at the recent Cumberland County NAACP’s Juneteenth celebration unveiling of Veronica Jackson’s banners of alums stitched by Pine Grove sewers. Where we handed out a new flyer about the true economic costs of the landfill to the whole county (link below).

At our Chat & Chew Comment Party gathering held May 26th at Bright Hope Community Center, county residents and allies eagerly filled a wall of flip chart sheets, dispelling myths about the landfill’s economic “boons,” and devising actions to galvanize Cumberland-wide residents to fight for a brighter, free from toxic waste, safer, healthier County.

Please contact us to host or assist with a “Talking Trash” neighborhood landfill watch parties to inform and listen to people living in all parts of Cumberland County.

S W E N

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2024-2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sonja Branch-Wilson, President

Cheryl Belt-Jackson, Vice President

Diane Joyner, Corresponding Secretary

Leadership Development

Membership

Technology & Public Relations

Student Ambassadors Newsletter

Rev. Tammy Mitchell, Corporate Community Liaison

Charlene Flood-Liggon, Recording Secretary

Community Engageemnt

Bill Obrochta, Education

Dr. Lakshmi Fjord, Enviornmental and Social Justice

Alesha Holman, Member At Large

Genay Hines, Treasurer

Muriel Miller Branch, President Emeritus

Finance & Fundraising

Community Engagement

Technology Website

History & Historical Preservation

Fannie Robinson, Member At Large

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

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2024-2025 STUDENT AMBASSADORS Tresurer

YO UR

NAM E HERE

YO UR

NAM E HERE

Kamria Holman, President

Jamiya Smith, Vice President

Nashai Jean-Davis, Corresponding Secretary

Vacant Treasurer

Micah Richard, Historian

Vacant Sgt-At-Arms

Communications Team

@AMMDPGP.YOUTHCOUNCIL

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Building, Property, and Grounds Community Engagement Corporate and Community Organizations Education Environmental and Social Justice Finance and Fundraising History and Historic Preservation Membership Student Ambassadors Technology, Public Relations, and Media

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COMMITTEE MEETINGS CALENDAR

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Website: www.ammdpinegroveproject.com Email: ammdpinegroveproject@gmail.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 Landfill Alert (CCLA) Cumberland County Public Library Cumberland County Public Schools Department of Historic Resources Encyclopedia Virginia Getting Word African American Oral History Project (Monticello) Jackson Design Group Namati National Trust for Historic Preservation New Hope Baptist Church Preservation Virginia Sierra Club of Virginia Southern Environmental Law Center Southern Poverty Law Center University of Richmond University of Virginia Law Virginia Interfaith Power and Light Virginia Humanities Virginia Organizing Virginia Outdoors Foundation