Free press sept 7 9, 2017 issue

Local writer receives national award B2

HU Bison win big in Las Vegas A8

Richmond Free Press © 2017 Paradigm Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

VOL. 26 NO. 36

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA

www.richmondfreepress.com

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c e l e b rat ing o u r 2 5 t h A nniv e rsar y

September 7-9, 2017

Fresh start for first day Improved George Mason Elementary rolls out red carpet for its students

By Ronald E. Carrington

Before the first students arrived Tuesday at George Mason Elementary School, Principal Rose Ferguson walked the halls and the playground in Church Hill, and then checked with teachers and support staff to make sure everything was ready.

More than 400 energetic youngsters were expected to bound in for the new 2017-18 school year.

When they arrived by the busloads, the smiling children were surprised. The red carpet, literally, had been rolled out in front of the school, and blue and white balloons swayed in the air. Curbside, they were greeted by Ms. Ferguson, interim Superintendent Thomas E. “Tommy” Kranz, teachers, staff and a plethora of volunteers from Capital One who waved pom poms, cheered and high-fived the youngsters as they walked in.

The song, “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now,” played from a Nissan Sentra parked next to the red carpet.

It was an upbeat way to start a new year at a school that recently grabbed headlines for its bedraggled condition. The change, which included a recent $130,000 deep cleaning, repairs and sprucing up, elevated the spirits of youngsters and their parents on this special day.

“I’m happy about George Mason,” said Brian Ellis, after walking his daughter to her first day in kindergarten. “It’s a really good school. I know my daughter will learn a lot this year.”

Built more than a century ago, George Mason Elementary served as the first school for African-American students in Church Hill.

It’s located on North 28th Street in the city’s 7th District.

Teachers and staff members complained to the Richmond School Board as the last school year wound down about horPlease turn to A4

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Students are greeted Tuesday at George Mason Elementary School by a cheering squad of volunteers from Capital One. Principal Rose Ferguson and interim Superintendent Thomas E. “Tommy” Kranz are the initial greeters by the school bus door.

City Hall to state auditor: No way city on brink of $ distress

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

No way could this be correct.

That is City Hall’s response to a finding by the state auditor of public accounts that Richmond is one of five localities — including Bristol, Petersburg and two unidentified counties — that are facing the most severe financial stress.

The Free Press disclosed the finding in the Aug. 31-Sept. 2 edition.

Seeking to erase any concerns about Richmond’s financial health, Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s financial staff pushed back against the APA conclusion, describing the financial stress test that state Auditor Martha Mavredes used to rank the state’s localities as creating a “distorted” picture

of localities’ fiscal health. They also said it favors small localities that are not growing and also don’t do much borrowing.

While Ms. Mavredes is suggesting that Richmond’s concern may be overblown, City Finance Director John Wack, in an email Tuesday to the Free Press, made the case against the APA finding.

Noting that the APA did not define “fiscal distress,” Mr. Wack stated that he and his staff “believe the methodology applied by the APA is limited and is distorted when looking at how some Virginia localities ranked compared to others.”

As evidence, he pointed to the APA list, noting “five of the 10 counties with the worst scores on the (APA stress test) are actually rated AAA by the national credit

rating agencies.

“Meanwhile, the City of Emporia, which was previously ranked as the most fiscally stressed city by the state Commission on Local Government, has a very high (APA) score of 75.3 percent, which for comparison purposes is much higher than Henrico County at 48.2 percent.”

Henrico County’s bonds have a triple A rating; Emporia received an A- rating on the most recent bond issue for its Industrial Development Authority. Richmond has a double A bond rating.

The bottom line: The APA test results “do not appear to correlate with what we believe are the best determiners of ‘fiscal

School Board member resigns Free Press staff report

The Richmond School Board now has eight members following the unexpected resignation of Nadine Marsh-Carter.

Ms. Marsh-Carter, who represented the 7th District that includes Church Hill, East End and Fulton, submitted her resignation in a letter the board received on Tuesday.

She stated that her circumstances since her election to the board in November have changed with the death of her husband, David S. Carter Jr., on July 30. Mr. Carter, who managed the database for Virginia State University’s fundraising programs, suffered a heart attack while the family was in North Carolina. He spent Ms. Marsh-Carter several weeks being treated at Duke University Hospital, where he died.

“My children and I now need this time to grieve and heal,” Ms. Marsh-Carter wrote. “And I need to focus on being as available to them as I can during this challenging transition within our family structure.”

As a result, she stated she could no longer serve constituents in the way they deserve.

Ms. Marsh-Carter is the president and CEO of the nonprofit Children’s Home Society of Virginia, an adoption agency, and is the daughter of former state Sen. Henry Please turn to A4

Please turn to A4

It’s a girl for Serena!

Fight for $15 holds rally on Labor Day

Free Press wire report

By Ronald E. Carrington

More than 120 fast food workers from across Virginia turned out Monday at Richmond’s Main Street Plaza in Shockoe Bottom to seek an increase in the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour.

At a rally held on Labor Day, the crowd heard from speakers like Brittney Lee of Richmond, a single mom who talked about rushing from her job at Wendy’s to her second job as a home health aide just so she can make ends meet and provide small extras for her son like fields trips and summer camp.

She and others talked about the toll it takes on family time as they juggle two, or sometimes three jobs, at the state’s minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.

They talked about waging the fight for a living wage so that their children and others in the future can live with dignity.

“Right now, we have a terrible income inequality in this land,” the Rev. Jeanne Pupke, senior minister with the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond, told the crowd. “The poor Please turn to A4

Sandra Sellers/Richmond Free Press

Fast food worker Anthony Robinson leads Fight for $15 protesters from the rally Monday at Main Street Plaza in Shockoe Bottom to a McDonald’s restaurant at 18th and Broad streets.

Serena Williams has given birth to a baby girl, the first child for the former world No. 1 tennis player and her fiancé, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian.

The birth of their 6-pound, 13-ounce daughter was announced Friday, Sept. 1, by Ms. Williams’ coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, on Twitter.

The 35-year-old Ms. Williams has not competed since winning the Australian Open in January but has posted several videos to social media showing her hitting balls during her pregnancy.

“Congratulations @SerenaWilliams for your baby girl. I am so happy for you and I feel your emotion,” Mr. Mouratoglou wrote last Friday on Twitter.

“Btw ... I wish you a speedy recovery... we have a lot of work ahead of us,” he added.

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Richmond Free Press

September 7-9, 2017

Local News

Norrell gym open again for recreation Recreation programs are again taking place in the former A.V. Norrell Elementary School on North Side.

The building is used now mostly as office space for Richmond Public School’s security department and drivers’ education program.

But Interim Superintendent Thomas E. “Tommy” Kranz lifted a blockade Wednesday Slices of life and scenes that he imposed on Aug. 7 in Richmond ending the longstanding use of the building’s gymnasium and several classrooms for sports, dance, arts and crafts, photography and other programming.

For the past month, a notice was posted at the entry to the gym at 2120 Fendall Ave. stating the space was being used for storage, initially for bikes that are earmarked for a program at Oak Grove Elementary.

Mr. Kranz said he shut down the space after his staff told him the Richmond DepartMr. Johnson ment of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities had not obtained a permit needed to use the space.

He said he also was preparing to move scaffolding and other school equipment to the building from a Commerce Road site.

The closure of the Norrell building for recreation dismayed many, including George W. Johnson, 67, who has volunteered for more than 45 years at the Battery Park Community Center on DuPont Circle, serving as a youth sports coach and helping with other recreation programs.

Cityscape

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Former Norrell School gymnasium entrance.

“What do you tell an 8-year-old cheerleader when she asks if she did something wrong to bring on the closure of the building?” Mr. Johnson asked rhetorically.

Before A.V. Norrell was closed to students in 2008, the city recreation department used the gym for after-school programs and summer camps for at least 50 years. Battery Park’s center is a small building that cannot accommodate more than 20 children. The former school’s gymnasium is the only large space

available in the neighborhood.

After 2008, the recreation department outfitted several adjacent classrooms for use for other programming, such as dance and photography, with a gate blocking off access to the rest of the building.

“This incident just shows that we need our own recreation center,” Mr. Johnson said, “so we don’t have to rely on the school system.”

Tall grass can net fine in Richmond

Failing to mow your grass can cost you.

Richmond City Hall is imposing a $50 fine on any property owner who lets his or her grass reach 12 inches or taller.

The fines can reach a hefty $200 for those who let it happen again, and ultimately could lead to court action for those who fail to break out the mower.

Between March 1 and Aug. 14, city inspectors issued 561 $50 fines for high grass and three $200 fines, according to John G. Walsh, code enforcement operations manager.

Mr. Walsh said the penalties are spelled out in an ordinance City Council approved in January 2016.

Mr. Walsh acknowledges that enforcement stalled initially “due to implementation of a new computer tracking system in the spring of 2016 and associated training and system setbacks.”

However, he said his office made sure everything was ready to go this year when the growing season began.

5th District Councilman Parker C. Agelasto introduced the ordinance adopted by City Council. The bill amended a previous ordinance that made it a misdemeanor criminal offense for property owners to have grass one foot or taller in their yards.

Previously, the property owner had to receive notice and time to abate the problem before being taken to court. However, Mr. Agelasto’s reform made high grass a civil offense, allowing city officials to inspect a property and impose the fine immediately.

Mr. Walsh said his office no longer has to issue a “letter of warning” or a notice to abate the violation.

“The civil penalty is tied to the inspection and not the abatement. At the time we find you in violation, the civil penalty is applied,” he said. “If you act to abate the violation within 48 hours, then you avoid any additional fines, but you would still owe the initial civil penalty.”

The office responds to complaints by neighbors, he said, but inspectors also can spot a problem and issue a citation. So can a police officer, fire marshal or fire inspector, the ordinance states, as well as members of Mr. Walsh’s staff.

The impact of the new approach is uncertain.

According to Mr. Walsh, the city spends between $300,000 to $500,000 a year mowing high grass on private property.

Much of the time, the property is not occupied and often tax delinquent.

The city can put a lien on the property to repay the cost, but in general, that money is unlikely to be collected if the owner cannot be found or the property ultimately is sold at auction to collect unpaid real estate taxes. — JEREMY M. LAZARUS

Ready, set, run!

Randy Singleton

Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, left, kicks off the political season in Virginia Monday with the 41st Annual Labor Day Cookout at his waterfront home in Newport News. Several hundred people eager to meet and mingle with candidates for various offices throughout the region turned out for the event that featured food, music and politics.

Among the speakers were the three Democratic candidates at the top of the state ticket. They are, from left, Attorney General Mark Herring, who is seeking re-election; Lt. Gov. Ralph S. Northam, who is running for governor; and Justin Fairfax, who is running for lieutenant governor. Each fired up the crowd and urged people to turn out to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 7.

Trim: 7.278” x 10” | Bleed 7.403” x 10.125” | Color: 4cp | Pub: Richmond Free Press | Insertion: Sept. 04, 2017

Here we reach further. Confident in our ability to stretch beyond limits, we fearlessly explore new directions and pursue creativity that defies convention.

GRTC rerouting buses along Broad Street

Alert to bus riders: GRTC has started rerouting buses off nearly a 1-mile stretch of Broad Street in Downtown during construction of stations for Pulse, the bus rapid transit system.

The detour, which went into effect Tuesday, means buses are no longer traveling along Broad Street between Belvidere and 10th streets.

Instead, buses are being routed along Franklin and Grace streets.

Buses impacted the most are on routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 19, 21, 24, 37 and 74, according to GRTC. Eastbound, those buses are now turning south on Belvidere and then traveling into Downtown on Franklin Street. Most of those buses then turn north on 2nd Street and use Marshall Street to reach the bus transfer plaza at 9th Street.

Westbound, most buses leave the 9th Street transfer plaza and travel on Marshall Street to 8th Street, where they turn south to Grace Street. They travel west on Grace to Belvidere, turn north and then head west on Broad Street to resume the route.

According to GRTC spokeswoman Carrie Rose Pace, construction work is picking up, creating increased congestion and making it harder for buses to service stops.

GRTC made the shift to “ensure we can provide safe, reliable service around the work zones,” she stated.

GRTC is using existing bus stops on Franklin and Grace streets, she added.

Riders on 29 others routes are largely unaffected.

At this point, GRTC cannot pinpoint a date when the detours will end.

Originally, the Pulse was expected to start running by the end of October. However, because of construction delays, GRTC has indicated that December or January is a more likely timeframe for its start.

WE PURSUE

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Richmond Free Press

September 7-9, 2017

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News

It’s a girl for Serena!

Fresh start for first day

Ms. Williams and the baby’s birth quickly became all the buzz at the U.S. Open, a tournament now underway in New York and which Ms. Williams has won six times.

“A baby girl? Well, I hope she doesn’t play tennis,” Garbine Muguruza, who is ranked No. 3 in the world, said with a smile during a news conference.

Ms. Williams’ sister and doubles partner, Venus Williams, romped over another opponent and into the fourth round of the major tennis tournament in Flushing, Queens, shortly after the birth was announced.

She told ESPN she was “super excited” about becoming an aunt, adding, “Words can’t describe.”

Fellow American player Sloane Stephens said she expected to see a lot of the newborn.

“I am very happy for her,” she said. “I cannot wait to see the little baby girl on tour because I am sure she will be around.”

Ms. Williams confirmed her pregnancy in April, hours after triggering frenzied speculation when she accidentally posted a short-lived selfie on social media with the caption: “20 weeks.”

The world’s highest-paid female athlete was about two months pregnant when she captured her 23rd grand slam singles title at the Australian Open, one short of the all-time record held by Australian Margaret Court.

She told Vogue magazine last month about her “outrageous plan” to defend her title in Australia, where the first grand slam of 2018 will be played from Jan. 15 through 28.

Other women have left the tour to have children and returned at a high level, although none has done so at Ms. Williams’ age.

Kim Clijsters of Belgium retired and had a child before coming back at age 26 and winning three grand slam titles.

Australians Evonne Goolagong Cawley and Ms. Court also won grand slam titles after having children.

In a recent interview posted on LeBron James’ website Uninterrupted, Ms. Williams said she wants three things for her baby: Equal prize money if her daughter grows up to become an athlete; that she will live a life according to the values that Ms. Williams’ parents instilled in her as a child; and that she will find happiness regardless of circumstances.

Ms. Williams recalled how she was raised not to be overly concerned about money.

“Looking back, we grew up in a two-bedroom house and there were seven people,” she said on the show. “I don’t know how my parents were able to make me feel that way, but they did. It was really special.

“I would love to give my kid the values that my parents gave me. I think that’s most important and I think everything comes after that.”

rific conditions at the old building that they said were detrimental to the health, safety and learning environment for students. One teacher wore a surgical mask to class because of foul smells and mold. Teachers also described how they would clean rodent droppings from classroom desks each morning.

They talked about leaks in the bathrooms and problems with the boiler, leaving classrooms with little heat on cold days.

Richmond Public Schools maintenance teams and volunteers spent the summer correcting many of the problems. Bathrooms were cleaned, leaks were fixed and the air quality was tested three times in July and August, Mr. Kranz said.

“We measured CO2 (carbon dioxide), we measured natural gas, we measured everything we could think of inside these buildings and everything was within standards,” he said.

“We will not put our students, teachers, parents and our staff in harm’s way,” he said.

Volunteers, including local artist Silly, spruced up the interior with a painting of the school’s mascot, a Jaguar, on the landing of a stairwell. They also painted

Continued from A1

Continued from A1

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

An excited Marcayla Vaughan, 6, is walked to school Tuesday by her dad, Ammond Mealey, at George Mason Elementary.

characters on hallway and classroom walls to brighten and make the building more welcoming for youngsters.

“We did things that will extend the life of the building and provide for a good school year,” Mr. Kranz said. “We are making sure all the mechanical systems will be fully operational and address any issues we have. We will be proactive instead of reactive.”

Later in the day, Mr. Kranz received praise from School Board Chairwoman Dawn Page and other board members for the improved conditions at George Mason.

Overall, he said, things went smoothly on the first day of school, although there were a few hiccups. One example: The fan in an air conditioning chiller at Blackwell Elementary School broke. He said the conditions inside the South Side school are being monitored, and that a rush has been put on getting replacement equipment to get the chiller back in operation.

Mr. Kranz said that when it comes to school facilities and their operation, the whole issue comes down to the amount of dollars that City Council provides. He said George Mason should have been receiving an average of $38,000 a year for maintenance, but instead was making do with an average

RPS opens with shortage of 54 teachers

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Richmond Public Schools started the new school year short 54 full-time teachers, including 23 special education teachers, according to interim Superintendent Thomas E. “Tommy” Kranz.

While he said RPS “hit a home run” with a relatively smooth opening Tuesday, Mr. Kranz told the School Board at an evening work session that his staff is still scrambling to fill the vacancies in the 2,000-member teaching corps.

Though much improved from the 90 vacancies that were reported last week, RPS is still facing a challenge, particularly with the shortage of special education teachers, he said.

He said about 40 substitutes were in place and that accommodations are being made to ensure students are not impacted by the shortfall of 14 substitutes in special education.

Mr. Kranz previously has expressed frustration with the operation of the school district’s Human Resources Department and has begun making changes, including, with School Board approval, forcing out the previous director and installing Mark Pasier as interim director.

Mr. Kranz said the department now will focus on improving customer service and its recruitment efforts.

His goal is to avoid the struggle to fill vacancies that he has faced since taking the helm as interim superintendent in July.

of $12,000 a year.

That’s the reality for all the school buildings, he said. The city, which provides the money, has fallen short of meeting the needs.

“We have 4.8 million square feet of building space to maintain,” Mr. Kranz said, noting that RPS receives about one-third of the money needed, or enough to maintain about 1.5 million square feet.

He said the school system overall has to make do with $5.5 million a year instead of the $17.3 million that a fully funded maintenance plan would provide.

He urged the School Board to be cautious about making any promises to replace buildings until it completes the comprehensive facilities plan that is due in October to present to the mayor and the council, who then would bear the responsibility for finding the money to implement the plan.

“As a school district, we are going to focus on strengthening and improving our weaknesses,” he said after greeting students and leading reporters on a tour of George Mason. “We have to provide a great education each and every day to all of our students.”

Free Press writer Jeremy M. Lazarus contributed to this article.

Marsh-Carter resigns from School Board Continued from A1

L. Marsh III. Her departure from the School Board is a blow for her colleagues, who described her as a passionate advocate for students and quality education.

Her departure also adds to the School Board’s to-do list — appointing a replacement to fill her seat until a new representative can be chosen in a special election in November 2018. Her resignation comes past the deadline for candidates to file to run in this year’s election.

At the same time, the board is engaged in finding a new superintendent — a task that must be completed

by December — and in developing a plan for upgrading or replacing more than 35 aging school buildings to present to the mayor and City Council this fall.

City Hall to state auditor: No way city on brink of $ distress Continued from A1

distress,’ ” Mr. Wack stated.

Instead of relying on the APA finding, “We feel that the nationally recognized credit rating agencies have developed methodologies that better reflect a government’s ability to pay for its obligations,” Mr. Wack stated.

“In particular,” he continued, “rating agencies factor in the changing demographics of all localities, such as unemployment, household income and population, to determine whether the local economy appears to be healthy and growing. The APA ratings don’t take (such factors) into account,” he said, “and instead appear to favor small localities that aren’t growing but may lack significant debt burdens.”

Ms. Mavredes did not respond directly to Mr. Wack’s comments after the Free Press provided her with a copy of his email.

She stated that the aim of her office’s stress test is to establish an early warning system to “identify possible local fiscal distress” that did not duplicate the work of the bond rating agencies and was distinct from the Commission on Local Government’s model.

“Our model is intended to be a starting point to flag

localities that warrant additional follow-up,” she stated.

“The additional follow-up,” Ms. Mavredes continued, “will focus on information related to budget processes, debt, borrowing, expenses and payables, revenues and receivables, staffing and any other external variables Ms. Mavredes contributing to a locality’s financial position, to further determine whether the locality may be in a position to experience fiscal distress, either now or in the future.”

Her office also will look at annual audits and other information.

She stated that “after consideration of all of this information, we will determine whether or not we believe a locality would benefit from additional assistance and/or intervention, and if so, would refer the locality to the governor and the chairs of the money committees of the General Assembly.”

She stated that this effort “is intended to provide assistance to any localities with identified needs, not to be a punitive exercise. Localities are not required to allow us to perform further review; if they say that they are not interested in us working with them, that

is allowed in the legislation.”

She noted that the creation of the APA model stems from legislation approved last year by the General Assembly. The bill grew out of concern about the near financial collapse in Petersburg and an interest in determining if any other localities could face Mr. Wack similar problems.

Ms. Mavredes told the legislature that the early warning system the APA is using is modeled after a similar program in Louisiana.

Mr. Wack said he and his staff would continue to analyze the APA’s calculations and “will be following up soon with City Council regarding our results.”

He said the office also is working on responses to 34 questions posed in the APA’s Fiscal Assessment Follow-Up Questionnaire.

The responses, he stated, will show the APA that Richmond has a structurally balanced budget, has maintained strong bond ratings, does not use tax or revenue anticipation notes to maintain a positive cash flow, is using a mixture of tools to collect delinquent taxes and continues to comply with its internal debt and fund-balance policies.

Fight for $15 holds rally Continued from A1

Sandra Sellers/Richmond Free Press

A McDonald’s employee signals his support for protesters Monday seeking a raise in the minimum wage outside the restaurant at 18th and Broad streets.

in America are worse off than the poor in any other developed country and it’s simply because we have put in place economics to ensure inequality.”

She said the average cost for fast food would increase by less than 50 cents if restaurant workers were paid a living wage.

“It’s in our power to change what we pay every citizen of Virginia,” she said to cheers. “It is within our power to stand up as Virginians and say we will not let slavery continue in the ways that it has morphed into in the 21st century.”

She said she and the church “support a fair wage for a fair week’s work.”

Anthony Robinson, a Richmond Taco Bell worker with two daughters, said, “I have to maintain food, shelter and stability for them, and at $7.25, that’s definitely not cutting it.

That’s why I have to have two jobs, which still is not enough to sustain my two daughters and myself.”

He said he joined the Fight for $15 for several reasons. The most important, he said,

is “because I know people that look like me died and fought just for me to have the platform to speak. So I’m taking advantage of that opportunity to fight for what is right.”

The Richmond rally was one of 300 held Monday across the nation as part of the Fight for $15 movement to raise the minimum wage.

Virginia’s minimum wage mirrors the national minimum wage — $7.25 per hour — which has not been increased nationally since July 2009.

Many in the crowd wore T-shirts with the words “Fight for 15” and “15 and a Union.”

They were joined by a few members of Industrial Workers of the World, a labor union founded in 1905 in Chicago, and the Virginia League of Conservation Voters.

After the speakers, the crowd marched to a nearby McDonald’s restaurant at 18th and Broad streets, where they waved signs, chanted and drew attention and support from passing motorists.

Ms. Lee said when workers at her restaurant tried to organize, management split them up, sending some people to other locations. After

five years of service, some people continue to earn $7.25 an hour, she said.

She said through conversations with her current manager and the efforts of fellow workers, she and others received a raise to $9 an hour.

“It’s not $15,” she said, “but we’re getting there.”

She said a $15 an hour wage “would change my life a whole lot because I would be able to provide better for my son, get caught up on my bills and I wouldn’t have to work two or three jobs.”

Rev. Pupke talked after the rally about her strategy to raise the minimum wage. She calls it “forcott.”

Instead of a boycott, she said, “forcott is an opportunity to identify and certify who in this community is paying a living wage and direct our dollars toward them and away from those who exploit labor, who commit wage theft in our community and who underpay the work of people. We must move our dollars from those businesses and direct our dollars to the ones paying a living wage.”

Richmond Free Press

September 7-9, 2017

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News

Trump scraps program protecting young undocumented immigrants Free Press staff, wire report

WASHINGTON President Trump on Tuesday scrapped an Obama era program that protects from deportation immigrants brought illegally into the United States as children, delaying implementation until March and giving a gridlocked Congress six months to decide the fate of almost 800,000 young people.

As the so-called Dreamers who have benefited from the five-year-old program were plunged into uncertainty, business and religious leaders, mayors, governors, Democratic lawmakers, unions, civil liberties advocates and former President Obama all condemned President Trump’s move.

The action was announced on behalf of President Trump,

by U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who called the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program an unconstitutional overreach by former President Obama. There will be an “orderly, lawful winddown,” Mr. Sessions said.

President Trump later issued a written statement saying, “I do not favor punishing children, most of whom are now adults, for the actions of their parents.

But we must also recognize that we are (a) nation of opportunity because we are a nation of laws.”

He denounced President Obama’s program as an “amnesty-first approach” toward illegal immigrants and pressed his nationalist “America First” message, saying that despite concerns voiced by his critics about the fate of the Dreamers, “Above all else, we must remember that young Americans have dreams, too.”

On Tuesday evening, the Republican president tweeted that lawmakers now had six months to “legalize DACA” and that if they did not, he would “revisit this issue!”

Former President Obama

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Students at Virginia Commonwealth University and their allies hold a rally Wednesday seeking continued university support for DACA students. VCU President Michael Rao pledged his support for the program and to keep Dreamers at the university.

issued his own statement, calling President Trump’s action a political decision, defending DACA’s legality and urging Congress to protect Dreamers.

“This is about young people who grew up in America — kids who study in our schools, young adults who are starting careers, patriots who pledge allegiance to our flag. These Dreamers are Americans in their hearts, in their minds, in every single way but one — on paper,” President Obama said.

The Trump administration said nobody covered by the program, which provided work permits in addition to deportation protection and primarily benefits Latinos, would be affected before March 5. Most people covered by DACA are in their 20s.

President Trump shifted responsibility to a Congress controlled by his fellow Republicans and said it was now up to lawmakers to pass immigration legislation that could address the fate of those protected by

DACA who would be in danger of deportation.

President Trump and Mr. Sessions offered no details of the type of legislation they would want to see, and President Trump’s spokeswoman offered only a broad outline.

“I have a love for these people (DACA recipients), and hopefully now Congress will be able to help them and do it properly,” President Trump later told reporters at the White House, adding, “I think it’s going to work out very well.”

Since President Trump took office in January, Congress has been unable to pass any major legislation, most notably failing on a health care overhaul, and lawmakers have been bitterly divided over immigration in the past.

“President Trump’s decision to end DACA is a deeply shameful act of political cowardice and a despicable assault on innocent young people in communities across America,” said Rep. Nancy Pelosi of California, the

top Democrat in the House of Representatives.

Virginia’s U.S. senators, Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, criticized the president’s action, saying it would leave young people in limbo.

“President Trump has made a heartless decision to target hundreds of thousands of young people who were brought to the United States through no fault of their own, breaking his promise that these ‘incredible kids’ could ‘rest easy,’ and putting them at risk for being torn away from their families,” said Sen. Kaine, who ran last November for vice president on the Democratic ticket with Mr. Trump’s opponent, Hillary Clinton.

“In Virginia, 12,000 of these Dreamers are neighbors, friends

and students who just want the opportunity to contribute to their communities and our economy. Today’s action will force DACA recipients back into the shadows and put them in danger of being deported from the only home they’ve ever known. Congress should immediately pass the bipartisan DREAM Act to protect these kids and then find an agreement on long-overdue, comprehensive immigration reform,” he said.

Virginia’s Democratic attorney general, Mark Herring, announced that the state is part of a coalition of 16 planning to file suit in the coming days to defend Dreamers from the DACA termination.

“There is no upside to ending DACA,” Mr. Herring stated.

“Only downside. It will hurt Virginia’s economy and make our communities less safe. It will needlessly tear families apart, burden social services and turn our back on promising, talented young people who want our country to succeed. I’m hopeful that Congress will do the right thing and fix this problem right away. But if they do not, we’ll be ready to defend Virginia Dreamers in court.”

Nearly 800,000 people stepped forward, admitted their illegal immigrant status and provided personal information to the government to apply for the DACA program. They now face the prospect of being deported starting in March. Dreamers are a fraction of the roughly 11 million illegal immigrants in the United States.

“The cancellation of the DACA program is reprehensible,” the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops said in a

statement.

But White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said, “It’s not cold hearted for the president to uphold the law.”

President Trump said DACA recipients would not be deportation priorities unless they are criminals or gang members.

Ending DACA was the latest action by President Trump sure to alienate Latino Americans, a growing segment of the U.S. population and an increasingly important voting bloc. Most of the immigrants protected

by DACA came from Mexico and other Latin American countries.

The Mexican government said it “profoundly laments” President Trump’s decision to end DACA and pledged to strengthen efforts to guarantee consular protections for affected Mexican citizens.

The Homeland Security Department will provide a limited window — until Oct. 5 — for some DACA recipients whose work permits expire before March 5 to apply to renew those permits. In addition, the department will adjudicate any new DACA requests, or renewal requests, accepted as of Tuesday. That would mean that some beneficiaries of DACA could work legally in the country through 2019.

House Speaker Paul Ryan, a Republican, called on lawmakers to find a long-term solution for the young people affected by the reversal of the program.

Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Congress “will continue working on securing our border and ensuring a lawful system of immigration that works.”

Richmond Crusade to hold candidates forums

Want to learn more about the Richmond candidates on the November ballot?

The Richmond Crusade for Voters is hosting free public forums next week to allow voters to get to know the candidates seeking office in the city, it has been announced.

The first event is scheduled Monday, Sept. 11, at Club 533, 700 N. 3rd Street.

From 6 to 8 p.m., the program is to focus on the four candidates for the 3rd District School Board seat now held by Cindy A. Menz-Erb, who was

McEachin, Kaine host info session Congressman A. Donald McEachin and U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine are co-hosting a Service Academy Day information session for high school students and their parents.

Representatives from the nation’s military academies will talk about the schools and about the congressional nomination process for student admittance.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Sept.

16, at Matoaca High School, 17700 Longhouse Lane in Chesterfield.

Representatives are expected from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in New York, the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut, Virginia Military Institute, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets and the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps.

appointed to the board and is seeking her first elected term against four challengers. They are: Dorian A. Daniels, Kenya J. Gibson, Joann Henry and Kevin A. Starlings.

Then from 8 to 10 p.m., the Crusade will feature the three candidates seeking to replace outgoing Richmond Sheriff C.T. Woody Jr., organizers said.

The candidates are Democratic nominee Antionette Irving, who beat Sheriff Woody in the June Democratic primary, and two independents, Nicole D. Jackson and Emmett Johnson Jafari.

Two days later, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, the Crusade has scheduled a second forum for 6 to 10 p.m. at Club 533.

That event will focus on candidates for the House of Delegates and candidates seeking to replace outgoing City Treasurer Eunice Wilder.

The forum for House candi-

dates in Districts 68, 69 and 74, including incumbents and challengers, is from 6 to 8 p.m.

Invitees include Republican incumbent G.M. “Manoli” Loupassi of the 68th District and his Democratic challenger, Dawn M. Adams; Democratic incumbent Betsy B. Carr of the 69th District and her challengers, Libertarian Jacob A. “Jake” Crocker and Green Party candidate MontagueA. Magruder; and Democratic incumbent Lamont Bagby of the 74th District, and his challenger, independent Preston T. Brown.

The forum for the three candidates for treasurer will be 8 to 10 p.m. The candidates are Democratic nominee Nichole O.R. Armstead and two former members of City Council, Michelle R. Mosby and L. Shirley Harvey.

Details: Johnny Walker, chair of the Crusade’s research committee, (804) 357-8242.

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Editorial Page

A6

September 7-9, 2017

Trump and the Dreamers President Trump continues to show us just what type of person he is.

His latest act of political callousness was announced Tuesday by his weasel attorney general, Jeff Sessions, who made it official: The president is dismantling former President Obama’s program that protects from deportation more than 800,000 young immigrants who were brought to this country illegally as children.

Mr. Sessions called the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or “Dreamers” program, as it is known, an unconstitutional reach, saying the program will wind down in six months, giving Congress time to act.

It’s an act of pure cruelty to young people, most of whom are in their 20s.

More than 12,000 Dreamers live in Virginia and contribute more than $700 million to the state’s economy, according to Progress Virginia. Under DACA, they registered with the government with the understanding they wouldn’t be deported.

It brought stability to individuals and families, allowing the Dreamers to obtain driver’s licenses, work permits and to qualify for in-state college tuition discounts.

As the school year starts, how many of them are on edge today, unsure if federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents will swoop down as they change classes or leave home for work and snatch them for deportation? How many victims of Hurricane Harvey in Texas are fearful of getting critical federal assistance to help them rebuild their homes and lives when the threat of deportation hangs over them?

White House talking points on the subject said Dreamers should “prepare for departure” from the United States.

On Wednesday, Virginia Commonwåealth University students changed a planned sit-in at President Michael Rao’s office to a rally on campus after Dr. Rao pledged his support for DACA students. “We won’t go back into the shadows,” organizers stated.

We question whether our president is so twisted that he’s using these young people as political hostages in a sick game with Congress: He will stop his assault on DACA and the Dreamers if Congress ponies up the billions to build his wall on the Mexican border.

President Trump’s actions are dangerous and misguided. He insists on throwing money away on border security when untold amounts will be needed to help rebuild and restore homes and businesses in Texas and Louisiana from Hurricane Harvey and along the East Coast after Hurricane Irma hits.

While we abhor President Trump’s latest act of merciless inhumanity, we are heartened that Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring has joined his legal colleagues from 15 other states to challenge President Trump’s termination of DACA. We believe Virginia is on the right side of the law for this court challenge.

We also call on members of Congress to work across the aisle to create a legal framework for the Obama administration’s DACA program. Give young people the protection they need under law, rather than under executive order, so that this president can’t tamper with their security when he gets another sudden whim.

Putting DACA back in force would only be a stopgap measure. Congress needs to take action to give these young people and their families a path to citizenship.

This is where decisive, bipartisan leadership becomes paramount. We know such leadership is missing from the Oval Office. We call on it to come from Democrats and Republicans of conscience and morality in Congress.

Stability for more than 800,000 young people should be more than a dream. Congress needs to make it a reality.

What to do?

Our media colleagues should stop their mewling over the absence of Democratic candidates Ralph S. Northam, Justin Fairfax and Mark Herring from the annual Labor Day parade in Buena Vista.

Yes, these candidates for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general, respectively, understood the parade is a political tradition in the Commonwealth, with candidates from both major political parties turning out to stump and glad-hand in the western part of the state.

And, yes, the trio attended a breakfast earlier Monday in Buena Vista, a rally on Sunday in Harrisonburg, a game day event at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville on Saturday and an Eid prayer meeting with the McLean Islamic Center at a Tyson’s Corner hotel on Friday.

Let’s face facts: Buena Vista, a city of 6,300 people, with a 94 percent white population, shouldn’t consider itself the center of the political universe in a diverse state like Virginia, with a population of 8.4 million, 30 percent of whom are people of color.

So we have no issue with the Democratic ticket heading out of Rockbridge County after the breakfast meet-and-greet and flying to Newport News for Congressman Bobby Scott’s 41st annual Labor Day Cookout — also a political tradition, but in the eastern part of the state.

At the cookout, the ticket was joined by U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, Randi Weingarten, national president of the American Federation of Teachers, and a host of other candidates for various offices where they energized a crowd of several hundred, including a cadre of party faithful and volunteers.

They talked about the critical issues facing Virginia and the nation — funding for public education, health care for the uninsured, job creation, protecting undocumented Dreamers and equal justice. They talked about how turnout at the ballot box on Tuesday, Nov. 7, will make a clear difference in Virginia’s leadership for the next four years.

The multiracial crowd in Eastern Virginia — part of the state’s highly populous “golden crescent” stretching from Northern Virginia through Richmond to Hampton Roads — understands that turnout is key. It’s what made Virginia a blue state in November 2016, supporting Democrat Hillary Clinton for president rather than backing the shameful, regressive policies of Republican candidate Donald Trump.

And like the candidates, the crowd at Congressman Scott’s picnic understands turnout will be key 60 days from now in Virginia’s gubernatorial election. We can either keep trying to move Virginia forward, or we can turn back the clock.

We know where we stand.

What would you have Virginia do?

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Blackballing Kaepernick

Colin Kaepernick, the former quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, is being blackballed — itself a revealing phrase — by the National Football League with the collusion of the all-white owners. He is being ostracized because a year ago he exercised his First Amendment right to free speech by taking a knee during the playing of the national anthem.

Mr. Kaepernick isn’t hooked on drugs. He isn’t a felon. He hasn’t brutalized women. He is treated as a pariah because he protested the continued oppression of black people and people of color. He wanted, he said, to make people “realize what’s going on in this country. … There are a lot of things going on that are unjust, people aren’t being held accountable for, and that’s something that needs to change.”

Born in Milwaukee, one of the most racially segregated cities in America, Mr. Kaepernick is particularly concerned about police brutality and the shocking police shootings of unarmed African-Americans.

Surely his cause is just.

Tens of thousands have joined peaceful demonstrations against police brutality in cities across the country. That movement, led by Black Lives Matter, put the issue of our institutionalized criminal injustice system back on the national agenda.

Under President Obama, the

U.S. Justice Department reached agreements with dozens of police departments to change police training and tactics. There was bipartisan agreement to change racially discriminatory sentencing practices.

Mr. Kaepernick’s protest was nonviolent and dignified. The San Francisco 49ers, the NFL

Jesse L. Jackson Sr. and President Obama all agreed that it was a protected act of free speech. Yet the owners of the NFL and their front offices have ostracized Mr. Kaepernick.

Sports writers report that Mr. Kaepernick is loathed by the white owners and front offices, some of whom denounce him as unpatriotic. But what Mr. Kaepernick did is the height of patriotism. It is the essence of democratic citizenship.

Almost 70 percent of players on NFL teams are AfricanAmerican. For most of them, Mr. Kaepernick’s protests are not as divisive as Tom Brady’s open support of Donald Trump.

Last year, Mr. Kaepernick’s teammates voted to give him the annual award for “inspirational and courageous play.”

Mr. Kaepernick is being treated as a pariah by the private club of white owners who are terrified of controversy. They clean up big time from public subsidies — tax breaks, public contributions to stadiums, television contracts — and they tremble at anything that might disrupt the gravy train. They want to make an example of Mr.

Kaepernick as a way of teaching the rest of the players a lesson, hoping to keep plantation-like control of their players.

He stands in a proud history of African-American athletes who have used their prominence to protest racism at home and unjust wars abroad. They have chosen to speak out at the height of their powers and in their prime money-making years. Often they have paid a high price. Yet in the end, their sacrifice helped make this country better.

Muhammad Ali opposed the Vietnam War and was prosecuted for refusing to be inducted into the Armed Forces, stripped of his title and barred from fighting. He lost some of the best years of his boxing life, but his protest helped build the anti-war movement that eventually brought that tragic and misbegotten war to an end.

Curt Flood, an All-Star centerfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, refused to be bought and sold like a slave. His protest and litigation cost him much of his career, but it broke open the owners’ control of players, opened the way to free agency and transformed baseball.

Jackie Robinson broke the racial barrier in baseball. He endured seasons of racial insult on and off the field. His remarkable skill and character transformed baseball and helped spur the Civil Rights Movement.

In his autobiography, “I Never Had It Made,” published just before his death in1972, he related his feelings about the national anthem as it played at the beginning of his first World

Hurricanes and public policy Hurricane Harvey did everything people said it would do and more. It either drowned or swallowed everything it touched in Corpus Christi, Houston and Beaumont, Te x a s , t h e Gulf Coast of Louisiana and a bunch of other places. Already, estimates say that Harvey may be our nation’s costliest disaster to date, costing at least $190 billion, or about 1 percent of our gross domestic product.

The damages are both individual — think of the uninsured person who lost her home or the worker whose job has now been eliminated — and national.

Houston is our nation’s fourth largest city and an epicenter of the oil and gas industry.

The man who occupies 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. traveled to Texas with his $40 cap, available on his website. His wife, who took two suitcases for the day trip, managed to switch jackets and caps and come out of her lizard heels and into a pair of sneakers. They let us know what was important to them — the “epic” hurricane, the size of the crowd gathered to see President Trump (more likely, unemployed folks waiting for food or housing placements) and the “team.”

They didn’t tell a single soul that they empathized and would work to help.

No matter. People came

forward without being asked — contributing food, their boats, towels, clothing and so much more. In crises like these, we are reminded about the many ways we Americans come together, contributing to relief funds, showing up to volunteer, opening up homes and more to help.

Julianne Malveaux What role must policy play in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey?

For one thing, we must define and refine the role of government in times of disaster like this.

Government clearly dropped the ball with Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, and some of the lessons from that tragedy have been applied in Houston.

At the same time, Gen. Russel L. Honoré, the hero of the Katrina debacle, said that in the 12 years since Katrina, so much more should have been done around preparation for a natural disaster.

Why haven’t we done the work? Often, we’ve been penny-wise and pound-foolish, choosing to cut expenses while incurring even greater costs. And if 45 has his way, we’ll be cutting even more. The budget he submitted to Congress cuts the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Weather Service and other agencies essential in responding to crises like Harvey.

I never thought I’d say it but New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie

has a point. You don’t get to rail against disaster aid when it is going to someone else’s state, but demand it when your state is impacted. U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas was not just wrong, he was dead wrong in voting against relief for those who survived Hurricane Sandy. And now, he is revealed as a craven hypocrite when he wants more for Texans than he offered to residents of New Jersey.

Either we will step up in crises or we will not. And if we step up, we need to step up for everyone. Hurricane Harvey did not discriminate. It swallowed the expanse of mansions, even gated ones, as well as the small apartments of uninsured working-class folks. Only one in six of those affected by Harvey were insured because premium costs rose quickly, forcing some families to pay as much as $2,000 a year, even as they earned relatively low wages.

If we step up, we have to step up for everyone, not just those with sterling documentation and the right insurance.

Do we believe that all should be protected from catastrophe? How do we implement such beliefs? And with a tone-deaf narcissist leading our nation, how do we transcend our terribly flawed leadership to adhere to our ideals?

In the weeks after Harvey, it is imperative for us to examine public policy toward those affected by our nation’s tragedies.

The writer is an economist, author and founder of Economic Education.

The Free Press welcomes letters The Richmond Free Press respects the opinions of its readers. We want to hear from you.

We invite you to write the editor. All letters will be considered for publication. Concise, typewritten letters related to public matters are preferred. Also include your telephone number(s). Letters should be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, Richmond Free Press, P.O. Box 27709, 422 East Franklin Street, Richmond, VA 23261, or faxed to: (804) 643-7519 or e-mail: letters@richmondfreepress.com.

Series game: “There I was, the black grandson of a slave, the son of a black sharecropper … a symbolic hero to my people. … The band struck up the National Anthem. The flag billowed in the wind. It should have been a glorious moment for me as the stirring words of the National Anthem poured from the stands. Perhaps, it was, but then again….

“As I write this 20 years later, I cannot stand and sing the anthem. I cannot salute the flag; I know that I am a black man in a white world. In 1972, in 1947, at my birth in 1919, I know that I never had it made.”

Mr. Kaepernick stands in a proud tradition. For choosing to speak out, he has been shut out. The collusion of the owners not only violates antitrust laws, it tramples basic constitutional protections. The NFL owners should be called to account, not Mr. Kaepernick.

The writer is founder and president of the national Rainbow PUSH Coalition.

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Richmond Free Press

September 7-9, 2017

A7

Letters to the Editor

Will Confederate statue removal prompt changes in sports team monikers?

I recently clicked a couple of photos of the Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson statues in Charlottesville before they were shrouded and soon to be removed.

When a commission was created more than a year ago to examine whether the statues should stay or go in Charlottesville, I avoided all objective and subjective conversations about them. However, I did discuss the clamor over the statues with a friend who also is African-American. He’s an artist, so he views the statues first as amazing pieces of 20th century artwork and, secondly, in the context of confederacy, slavery and Jim Crow.

As a researcher, I think the hulking Confederate symbols bring to mind strategies and battles fought. The revival of the Confederate flag and placing of monuments often were displayed out of context post-Civil War. Our neighboring state a few hours South may be best known for its university and famous Tar Heels sports teams. However, I know that “Tar Heel” was a moniker earned by a Confederate regiment making a valiant stand during a Civil War battle.

Thusly, should we rename one of the storied collegiate teams in American history?

Logically, the removal of monikers and monuments discourages the celebration of misdeeds in American history, thereby removing rallying points for those with warped ideologies.

Ultimately, will the disappearance of some figures bring about needed dialogue among the living and, above all, tolerance?

J.D. HOWARD Charlottesville

School cafeterias should have healthy, vegetarian options for students With the new school year upon us, parents turn their attention to school clothes, school supplies and school food.

More than 31 million children rely on school meals for their daily nutrition, which too often consists of highly processed food laden with saturated fat. Not surprisingly, a third of our children are overweight or obese. Their early dietary flaws become lifelong addictions, raising their risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

To compound the problem, the Trump administration has loosened President Obama’s 2010 school lunch rules calling for whole grains, fat-free milk and reduced salt content. The rules had an 86 percent approval rating.

Fortunately, many school districts now offer vegetarian options. More than 120 schools, including the public school districts of Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Detroit, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Oakland, Philadelphia and San Diego have implemented Meatless Monday.

As parents, we need to involve our own children and school cafeteria managers in promoting healthy, plantbased foods in our local schools. Entering “vegan options in schools” in a search engine provides lots of useful resources.

ROGER TESSELMAN Richmond

People need to come forward and help the police With the murder rate rising in Richmond, many citizens have started the blame game, blaming the police for not doing enough to stop the violent shootings.

Richmond Police Chief Alfred Durham has been begging for citizens to speak up and tell police what they see. This is not being done. Many people are witnessing violent crimes, but keep their mouths shut because they do not want to get involved. Others give tips or information to the police, anonymously or not.

The main thing is to get violent criminals off the streets. I worked around law enforcement agencies for more than 30 years and there’s no doubt in my mind the police are doing the best possible job they can.

The latest spike in shootings is caused by a turf war between the public housing sectors such as Mosby Court and Creighton Court, just to name two. Some of these criminals are so carefree

now, they will do drive-by shootings in the daytime. Tenants are now fearful for their kids playing outside and possibly being shot in the crossfire.

Let’s put some of the blame where it belongs — on citizens seeing shootings and refusing to tell the police who was involved and what they saw. No police department can do it alone or solve crimes without getting help from the community.

Let’s get these violent criminals off the streets by giving the police the help they so desperately need — information.

Enough is enough.

ERNEST PARKER JR. Richmond The writer is a former interim superintendent at the Richmond Juvenile Detention Center.

Civilian review board needed for police issues Re: Column “Police brutality, delusions at top,” Free Press Aug. 10-12 edition: I’d like to challenge the community to consider other forms of police misconduct we encounter every day that breeds brutality.

Groups are continuing efforts in calling for an independent civilian review board to address the pervasive, arbitrary police stops, harassment and violence that contribute to the distrust and perception of police as occupiers, not allies. Richmond residents, especially our young people, communities of color and working-class communities, desperately need police accountability.

When someone reports a grievance to the Richmond Police Department, it is investigated by the department’s Internal Affairs Division. How can we trust a system of self-policing with conflicts of interest and expect to see justice? This same method of self-policing has let many police murderers walk free across the nation.

I was illegally searched, booked, lost time from work and paid bond for a crime I had no association with. I had to hire a lawyer to prove that my civil rights were violated.

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I was found not guilty, but I never pursued filing a complaint because I knew the situation would be reviewed by the friends of the officers who wronged me. I didn’t trust the system then and I still don’t.

As a lifelong Richmonder, I know many people of color like me whose rights have been violated by those charged to serve and protect, but who have never seen justice. I fear for my community. Many may not know their rights, may not have resources for a good lawyer and now live with sentences and felonies because of police abuse of power.

The Richmond Police Department’s online form to file complaints about police conduct reveals that justice is not their priority. Under “Things to Know,” it states, “The Department routinely checks the police records of the people with whom we have contact, including people who file complaints. If a police officer has contact with you and is aware of a warrant, he is legally compelled to arrest you.”

For immigrant residents who lack documentation, the police make sure to note, “We will not report you to the Department

of Immigration and Naturalization Service, unless you have been convicted of certain criminal offenses.” However, it is written only in English. This is predatory. With recent relentless attacks on the immigrant community, the chances of reporting any information to law enforcement, let alone serious police misconduct, are highly unlikely.

These statements are threats meant to deter citizens from seeking justice. If the city and the Richmond Police Department are serious about building community trust with law enforcement, they will consider creating a civilian review board to inject objectivity and transparency into this process.

There should be zero tolerance for hate, discrimination or harassment by police in already vulnerable black and brown communities in Richmond. To many officers, we all fit a description, and we, as a community, must work toward dismantling this ideology and fight for justice.

TODD LEE Richmond

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Richmond Free Press

A8 September 7-9, 2017

Sports Stories by Fred Jeter

VSU wins Labor Day Classic before crowd of 10,000-plus in Norfolk Virginia State University continues knocking out its football opponents — even those in a larger division.

Under Coach Reggie Barlow, the Trojans beat Norfolk State University 14-10 last Saturday before a crowd of 10,221 fans at the Labor Day Classic in damp Dick Price Stadium.

On this occasion, VSU, an underdog on paper, was top dog on the field.

VSU competes in the CIAA, which is in NCAA Division II (36 scholarships allowed), while NSU competes in MEAC, the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (63 scholarships max).

Heading South The Spartans had won the Saturday, Sept. 9 previous six meetings between Virginia State University the HBCUs. plays Johnson C. Smith University at Belk Complex Last Saturday’s matchup was in Charlotte, N.C. a bit personal as VSU delivered Kickoff: 4 p.m. a proverbial black eye to NSU Coach Latrell Scott.

Coach Scott left VSU three years ago for the better-paying post at NSU in the higher-profile conference. NSU went 4-7 in each of Coach Scott’s first two seasons at NSU. And the Spartans’ problems could get worse before they improve. The Spartans play host to the College of William & Mary — a school they have never defeated — on Saturday, Sept. 9. NSU then travels to Harrisonburg on Saturday, Sept. 16, to take on James Madison University, the FCS national champion.

Meanwhile, VSU feels like it has wings on its muddy cleats as it prepares to play CIAA rival Johnson C. Smith University Saturday, Sept. 9, in Charlotte, N.C. Among the nation’s hottest Division II programs, VSU was 9-2 a year ago in Coach Barlow’s first season.

The Trojans finished the season with four rousing victories

statistics more than the scoreboard. The Trojans had 19 first downs to the Spartans’ 10 and forced eight NSU punts.

VSU rushed for 190 yards compared to NSU’s 98 yards.

NSU’s lone touchdown came when Nigel Chavis, a sophomore linebacker from Richmond’s Armstrong High School, recovered an end zone fumble.

VSU quarterback Cordelral Cook scored on two short runs and Trenton Cannon negotiated the wet surface for 145 yards on 26 carries. Cook is a transfer from Alabama State University, where Coach Barlow coached before coming to VSU. The game was thrilling to the finish.

Behind freshman quarterback Juwan Carter from Highland Springs High School in Henrico County, NSU drove to VSU’s 34 yard line in the closing minute.

But defensive back Quincy Watts from Virginia Beach intercepted a Carter pass to ensure the visitors a triumphant ride back to Ettrick.

It was VSU’s first victory over NSU since 2005.

College football can be a small world sometimes.

In Charlotte, VSU likely will face the Golden Bulls’ Randy Singleton junior quarterback Terrance Ervin from L.C. Bird High Virginia State University running back Trenton Cannon carries the School in Chesterfield County. Ervin led Bird High to ball into Norfolk State University territory during Saturday’s Labor Day Classic at Dick Price Stadium in Norfolk. Cannon finished the back-to-back Division 5 state titles and played at Norfolk game with 145 yards on 26 carries, helping the Trojans to a 14-10 State and Louisburg Junior College before transferring victory. to Johnson C. Smith.

The 6-foot-4 Ervin passed for 228 yards and ran for 57 yards — 69-7 against Lincoln University, 49-21 against Chowan in Johnson C. Smith’s season opening 38-18 loss to Wingate University, 48-21 against Virginia Union University and 45-35 University.

On Saturday, Sept. 16, VSU will open its home season against against Tuskegee University.

VSU’s last defeat was Oct. 15, 2016, when the Trojans blew defending CIAA champion Winston-Salem State University in what could be a preview of the CIAA championship game in a 14-point lead in a 38-37 loss at Bowie State University.

In the Labor Day Classic in Norfolk, VSU dominated the November.

Huguenot Falcons fly high with win despite storm

There are signs Huguenot High School football has weathered the storm, and not just because the team’s latest victory was achieved in drenching conditions.

The Falcons are 2-0 for the first time since at least 2004 after drubbing visiting Jamestown High School of Williamsburg 34-24 last Friday.

The game was played as the final remnants of Hurricane Harvey swept through South Richmond.

After drying off, fourth-year Huguenot Coach Bryan Jennings suggested his program is taking “baby steps” after years of frustration.

“My first year, we won one game.

My second year, two. My third year, three,” Coach Jennings said. “Now, I’m not saying we’d be satisfied with four this year. The more important thing is that we’re progressing.”

The Falcons opened with a 35-6 rout of visiting Booker T. Washington High School of Norfolk on Aug. 25.

Elusive and strong-arm senior quarterback Merlys Manuel has been brilliant in both victories. The thirdyear starter had two touchdown passes against Booker T. Washington and added three more against Jamestown High.

Overall, Manuel was 12 for 18 for 227 yards hurling the wet ball against Jamestown High.

“Merlys represents how we’ve improved,” Coach Jennings said. “He

James Haskins/Richmond Free Press

Huguenot High quarterback Merlys Manuel runs the ball to avoid a Jamestown High School defensive player during last Friday’s game in the rainy remnants of Hurricane Harvey.

has learned a lot and is making better decisions each week.”

Manuel’s three touchdown aerials all went to fleet sophomore Kevin Gayles covering 25, 15 and 52 yards,

respectively.

Huguenot has sent at least four receivers to the NFL — Corey Holliday, David Terrell, Bryan Still and Dedrick Epps. It is doubtful any had

much better nights in green and gold than Gayles, who had seven receptions for 147 yards while gazing through raindrops.

Huguenot’s ground attack figures to be led by ultraquick Rakei Pope, a senior transfer from state juggernaut L.C. Bird High School in Chesterfield County.

“Rakei was already living in the city,” Coach Jennings said. “He joined us to be with his half-brother, Duron Ferguson,” a defensive back for the Falcons.

Among those providing Manuel time to pass and Pope with running room is 6-foot-5, 330-pound offensive guard Brennan Thomas.

“He’s a Division I prospect,” said Coach Jennings, who ought to know. Coach Jennings starred as a tight end at Virginia Tech and played briefly in the NFL with the San Diego Chargers.

Defensively, converted basketball player Chavon Fields had 13 tackles and returned a fumble 30 yards for a touchdown.

Coach Jennings is perhaps more apt to boast about the quantity than quality of his roster.

“I’m most proud of our numbers,” he said. “Our varsity is up to over 50.

And we’ve got about 30 on JV and growing,” he said.

It helps that Coach Jennings has developed a pipeline to the city’s

dominant youth program — the Southside Ducks.

“More and more Ducks are starting to show up in our lineup,” said Coach Jennings.

This is no time to let off the gas.

The underdog portion of Huguenot’s season begins Friday, Sept. 8, with a visit to Chesterfield County’s James River High School.

Huguenot is Class 4, according to the latest Virginia High School League rating system, which is based on a school’s enrollment.

James River is one of four Class 6 schools — the largest division — on Huguenot’s slate this season. The others are Clover Hill, Manchester and Cosby High schools. Huguenot also takes on Class 5, three-time state champ L.C. Bird High School.

Still, all indications are pointing skyward for a Falcons’ program that has known hard times.

Consider, in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013, Huguenot went 1-9 each season.

During much of that time, the Falcons had nowhere to play home games or even practice on campus as the new school was being constructed on Forest Hill Avenue.

Now Huguenot is hopeful the pecking order will change.

“Our kids know who is who around the area,” said Coach Jennings. “But the more we win, the more our confidence will grow.”

Howard takes on ‘Mission Impossible’ and scores big Mike London’s University of Virginia football coaching tenure couldn’t have ended much worse.

His coaching career at Howard University couldn’t have started much better.

In his first game on sidelines for the Washington school, Coach London directed a head-spinning 43-40 upset victory last Saturday at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas.

It marked Howard’s first ever victory over an FBS school — the highest division — and is regarded as among the greatest upsets in NCAA history based on the betting line.

UNLV, a member of the Mountain West Conference and alma mater of ex-NFL great Randall Cunningham, was a 45-point favorite over HU of the MEAC. According to Vegas odds maker R.J. Bell, a $100 bet on Howard to win straight up would have earned $55,000.

Bell noted very few such bets were made.

The largest previous betting line upset was 40-point underdog Stanford University’s win over the University of Southern California in 2007.

In football jargon, Howard at UNLV was a “guarantee game,” meaning the home team paid Howard to play with no obligation to ever play the Bison in D.C. UNLV confirmed the guarantee in this case was $600,000, on the condition that Howard’s renowned marching band — “Showtime” — perform before and during the contest. That said, Howard came away with a historically significant victor, plus a hefty payday.

The leading man on the field for HU was freshman quarterback Caylin Newton, brother of NFL Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton.

At 5-foot-11, Georgia native Caylin Newton is six inches shorter than Cam. But size didn’t matter in Vegas, as he passed for 140 yards and ran for 190 yards in his college debut.

On defense, Isaiah Fludd, a junior from Chesterfield County’s Monacan High School, contributed four tackles.

In a postgame news conference, Coach London said, “The players, the guys, I’m telling you, are sky high right now in terms of confidence, in terms of belonging. We talked about this being a business trip. This wasn’t the old typical 1AA. It’s your money game, and we’re going to be cannon fodder.

“We came here to win, and that’s what happened.”

Such moments of exhilaration were rare for Coach London at

Chase Stevens/Las Vegas Review-Journal/Associated Press

Howard University players celebrate their surprise 43-40 victory last Saturday over University of Nevada-Las Vegas at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas.

U.Va., where he coached from 2010 to 2015. His Cavaliers were 27-46 overall, including 0-6 against archrival Virginia Tech.

Coach London was sent packing following the 2015 season and spent 2016 as a University of Maryland assistant.

At Howard, he inherited a wobbly program more famous for its band than football. Howard had won just three games total during the past two seasons. The Bison were picked to finish ninth out of the 11 MEAC teams this autumn.

Tongue in cheek, Coach London had dubbed his assignment against UNLV as “Mission Impossible.”

With the mission somehow accomplished in Vegas, Howard officials are trying to cash in. An online fundraiser for Howard has been launched called “$43.40,” representing the score against UNLV, #Mission Impossible.

Bringing Bison to Richmond Richmond area fans can see Howard University’s highprofile Bison up close and personal Saturday, Sept. 16, when the Washington team plays the University of Richmond Spiders. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. at Robins Stadium.

It will be a homecoming for Howard Coach Mike London, who coached the Spiders to the FCS National championship in 2008.

Before embarking on a coaching career, Coach London was a Richmond Police detective concentrating on street crimes.

September 7-9, 2017 B1

B

Richmond Free Press

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Happenings

Stephen M. Levinson has worked for civil rights and social justice for almost a half century. And like many in his field, he has endured death threats in writing and in person.

Even after retiring last year from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, he remains vigilant about civil rights issues.

He is the volunteer board president of the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia, the Richmond-based nonprofit that garners headlines for its legal battles to ensure the constitutional rights of a variety of individuals and organizations.

“Civil and human rights victories are never fully won,” Mr. Levinson says. “We are fighting many battles today that we ‘won’ years ago, and we simply must remain vigilant and committed.”

In recent months, the organization has gone to court to protect the rights of a transgender high school student in Gloucester County to use the bathroom of his choice, and filed a friend of the court brief in a case in which an Islamic center was denied a permit necessary to build a mosque in Culpeper County.

Most recently, the ACLU of Virginia also went to court to defend the First Amendment rights of a white supremacist group to hold a protest in a downtown park in Charlottesville. The ACLU was successful, and the resulting rally on Aug. 12 turned violent, gaining national headlines with the death of a counterprotester.

As board president, Mr. Levinson leads the ACLU on establishing policies, setting priorities and approving the budget for the organization, which determines how resources are allocated. The ACLU Foundation board also approves any involvement in litigation.

He admits that the journey is not always easy, and the tall order of civil rights work can become quite cumbersome.

In the wake of the violence in Charlottesville, Anthony D. Romero, executive director of the national ACLU, told the Wall Street Journal that the ACLU “will no longer defend hate groups seeking to march with firearms.”

Mr. Levinson says the ACLU of Virginia does not have to represent any group — including white supremacists — seeking to demonstrate with firearms.

“As with other representation decisions, we will examine these situations on a case-bycase basis, recognizing that the presence of firearms may suppress speech by others in the public space,” he says.

“This always has been a factor in our deliberations.”

Asked if a line needs to be drawn between free speech and hate speech that can result in violence or death, Mr. Levinson says, “The ACLU of Virginia’s position is that all speech, including that which is distasteful or objectionable, must be defended. However, we would not defend speech that includes an ‘imminent threat’ of violence …”

The Charlottesville protest was touched off by white supremacists who don’t want the Charlottesville City Council to remove from public parks statues of Confederates Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson.

The Virginia ACLU also has taken a position on the issue, noting that all Confederate monuments and memorials in public spaces should be removed.

“Regardless of origin or historical context, today (Confederate statues) are inciteful symbols of hatred and bigotry to which white supremacists are drawn like moths to a flame,” Mr. Levinson says.

“The repulsive vitriol and penchant for violence of such individuals and groups are

degree, University of Connecticut; J.D., Boston University School of Law. ACLU of Virginia’s mission: The ACLU of Virginia is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes civil liberties and civil rights for everyone in the Commonwealth through public education, litigation and advocacy, with the goal of securing freedom and equality for all.

When elected president and length of term: I became president in August 2015. I was re-elected for the 20172018 term. unwelcome in Virginia, and our communities should be able to decide for themselves that they no longer wish to harbor those symbols and invite future threats to public safety.”

The ACLU of Virginia, he says, supports removing any restraints by the state or local governments preventing localities from deciding what to do with Confederate statues.

Through the years, Mr. Levinson has been a partner and chief legal counsel in a human and civil rights consulting firm, served as general counsel for the National Association of Human Rights Workers and as editor of a civil rights-related publication.

“My passion has never diminished,” he says. “Sometimes you do get tired, but then you realize that there is no choice (but to keep going) and always hope that some younger folks will learn, acquire your passion and commitment and keep the fight going.”

Mr. Levinson says the knowledge that there are more good people in the world than zealots also encourages him.

“While you try to always be vigilant, you simply cannot let these (extreme) individuals deter or stop you.”

Meet this week’s tireless advocate for constitutional rights and Personality, Stephen M. Levinson: Community involvement: Board president, ACLU of Virginia.

Occupation: Retired.

Date and place of birth: Oct. 24 in Hartford, Conn.

Current residence: Northern Virginia.

Alma maters: Bachelor’s

Year I got involved with ACLU of Virginia: Approximately 1990.

Why I am excited about this organization: I have been professionally and personally involved in the civil rights/ civil liberties arena for almost 50 years, and I cannot think of a better organization to protect and advance the constitutional principles of equality and equal protection.

My top objective: To ensure the protection of civil liberties and civil rights for everyone in the Commonwealth.

Foremost issues facing ACLU of Virginia: The ACLU of Virginia’s top priorities at this time are voting rights and criminal justice reform.

How I plan to deal with them: It is time that the Commonwealth proactively addresses the Jim Crow-era law that disenfranchises one out of every five African-Americans from voting and fully participating in our democracy. We need a constitutional amendment that positively affirms the rights of everyone over 18 and who is a U.S. citizen to vote, period.

Regarding criminal justice reform, the ACLU of Virginia is advocating for better policies and practices in local law enforcement, including those for body-cam usage, as well as use of force policies that start by acknowledging the sanctity of human life and require deescalation tactics from there.

Also, we support less prosecution of low-level crimes, as well as decriminalization of marijuana, which disproportionately affects AfricanAmericans more than white people by a three-to-one ratio statewide, even though usage

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Richmond Free Press

B2 September 7-9, 2017

Happenings

Young writer has winning way with words at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington.

Finding out that she was a winner was a After reading Margot Lee Shetterly’s book, “Hidden Figures,” about African-American surprise.

“My mom and I were driving back from my women mathematicians at NASA who did many of the calculations to put astronauts in space, grandparents and she told me that I won second 11-year-old Isla Rodriguez of Richmond now place,” Isla recalled, eyes twinkling a smile. “I was drinking something and I literally started wants to be an astronaut.

But the sixth-grader at Albert H. Hill Middle choking on it because I was screaming.”

“In the beginning, Isla wasn’t sure she School also has another calling — writing.

Her essay about the book and its influ- wanted to do the contest this year,” said Mrs. ence on her won the 2nd Place Grand Prize Rodriguez. “When you’re in sixth grade and its summer vacation, in the Library of you want to be on Congress’ 2017 “A vacation.”

Book That Shaped But mother and Me” Summer Writdaughter came to ing Contest. a meeting of the Isla’s essay beat minds and wound out more than 300 up reading the book entries in the Midtogether, with Isla Atlantic compefinishing first. tition to win the As the mothnational award. er-daughter team This is her secread, they had ond year — and discussions about second victory — the book, started entering the writing a small book club contest. Last year, about “Hidden Figshe was named the ures” and held FaLibrary of Concebook Live events gress’ Virginia winabout it with other ner with an essay readers. she wrote on the “During the Fatrilogy “March” by cebook Live events, civil rights icon we talked about and U.S. Rep. John ‘hidden figures’ in Lewis of Georgia. our own lives such “Writing feels as my great-aunt, natural,” Isla told who is the vice the Free Press in an Ronald E. Carrington/Richmond Free Press interview Monday Isla Rodriguez, 11, holds her second place medal president at Central Virginia Commuat the North Side that she won in the Library of Congress 2017 “A home of her parents, Book That Shaped Me” Summer Writing Contest. nity College, and

my grandmother, Enrique and Holly Rodriguez. Her mother was a freelance writer who worked 25 years for the U.S. Department of Agriculture,” Isla’s mom said. recently for the Richmond Free Press.

The contest surprised the Rodriguez family She said the book had a profound impact on from start to finish. her future plans.

The Library of Congress contacted the fam“I think that one day I can help continue what Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan ily on Friday, Sept. 1, and arranged for Ms. and Mary Jackson started at NASA,” Isla said. Shetterly, the book’s author, to interview Isla on camera for the festival.

“I just want to continue their greatness.”

“To our amazement,” said Mrs. Rodriguez, Isla submitted her essay to the contest for rising fifth- and sixth-graders through Richmond “we found out when we got to the Washington Convention Center that Isla was to read her Public Library’s Ginter Park Branch.

The awards were presented Saturday, Sept. 2, essay to Ms. Shetterly, which she did.”

By Ronald Carrington

Ms. Shetterly, she said, asked Isla, “Why do you like to write and how did you choose the book?”

Isla responded truthfully, “Well, my mom told me to read “Hidden Figures” and said, ‘You’re going to do the essay.’ ” There was another surprise at the awards ceremony. Journalist and author Cokie Roberts, senior correspondent for National Public Radio and a frequent political commentator on ABC News public affairs programs, addressed

the winners. During her remarks, Ms. Roberts asked if anyone knew who Benjamin Franklin was and what he was known for.

Isla was the only winner with a response. She said with a mischievous confidence, “Franklin ‘discovered’ electricity,” she said, using air quotes, “and was the first postmaster.”

The essay contest is part of the Library of Congress National Book Festival. Isla’s efforts netted $250 in gift card prizes from the state and the national competitions.

Old school party for new school year

Photos by James Haskins/Richmond Free Press

Left, Antonio Daniels, 7, gets his hair cut by Zeymoria Light, while, below right, Jaliah Jackson, 4, designs her own binder pouch, at the Back-to-School Block Party held Sunday at the Richmond Association of Masonic Lodges on North 25th Street in preparation for the first day of school.

Prince Hall Masons Al Davis, below left, and Alonzo Coley keep a watchful eye on hamburgers cooking on the grill at the event hosted by members of the 26th Masonic District and the Richmond Police Department in Church Hill.

D O W N S Y N D R O M E A S S O C I AT I O N O F G R E AT E R R I C H M O N D ’ S th

11

Annual

Virginia LISC invites you to the Annual Celebrating Community Leaders event

Saturday • Oct.14

Honoring:

Acca Shrine Center

Mrs. Mary White Thompson, Community Leader

5K Run/Advocacy Walk • 8:30AM Family Festival • 9:00AM – 1:00PM • Rain or Shine

Special Guest International Model Madeline Stuart

Ms. Sunday Jones, Community Leader

From Brisbane, Australia • www.madelinestuartmodel.com

Featuring… chip-timed 5K • live music by Betsy Lynne and

Project: HOMES, Nonprofit Leader

the Boys • special group performances • fashion show featuring individuals with DS • pumpkin patch • exhibitor & sponsor displays And much more, all promoting awareness & acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome!

Altria Group, Corporate Leader

Proudly serving Richmond, Charlottesville, Williamsburg & Central Virginia Pre sente d by:

Thursday, Sept. 28, 2017 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Richmond Raceway Torque Club 600 E. Laburnum Ave. Richmond, VA 232222

Register to run/walk/ volunteer/donate:

www.dsagr.org A l s o S p o ns o r e d by :

ourhealthcville.com

Ticket Cost: $60

UPS Freight

®

Register at Eventbrite

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/celebrating-community-leaders-tickets-32961096527?aff=ehomecard

DSAGR-Richmond-FREE-Press1-4 vertSept.indd 1

8/25/17 11:07 PM

Richmond Free Press

September 7-9, 2017 B3

Faith News/Directory Sixth Baptist Church

Zion Baptist Church

Theme for 2016-2020: Mobilizing For Ministry Refreshing The Old and Emerging The New

2006 Decatur Street Richmond, VA 23224 zbcoffice@verizon.net

We Embrace Diversity — Love For All! Come worship with us!

Youth September 10, 2017 Zone SundaY 10:45 AM – Worship Service Speaker: Rev. Kaila Jenning, Directory

A 21st Century Church With Ministry For Everyone

d

Dr. Robert L. Pettis, Sr., Pastor

Youth Baptist General Convention

Sunday Service 10 a.m.

Family and Friends/Community Festival Saturday, September 16, 2017 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Church School 8:45 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study 7p.m.

Photos by Clement Britt

Getting ‘kicks’ for school

Family and Friends Community Worship Sunday, September 17, 2017 10:45 AM – Worship Service

Transportation Services (804) 859-1985 “Reclaiming the Lost by Proclaiming the Gospel”

When it came to choosing new shoes for school, Richmond area youngsters had a wide selection of styles and colors at the 12th Annual “New Shoes for Back to School” program Monday at Third Street Bethel A.M.E. Church in Jackson Ward. Fourteen churches, a synagogue and several businesses collected more than 4,000 pairs of shoes to give to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. E’nyah Nash tries on a pair of sneakers, right, with the help of volunteer Melody Imburg of Temple Beth-El, while below, volunteer Sharon Toulson of Sharon Baptist Church helps 4-year-old Joshua Ellis choose the perfect pair of shoes. Volunteers also were on hand Monday to help youngsters make shoe selections at the program’s second location at New Deliverance Evangelistic Church Annex on Turner Road.

Rev. Dr. Yvonne Jones Bibbs, Pastor

Twitter sixthbaptistrva Facebook sixthbaptistrva

Garlan Garland Avenue B

400 South Addison Street, Richmond, Va. 23220

(near Byrd Park)

(804) 359-1691 or 359-3498 • Fax (804) 359-3798 www.sixthbaptistchurch.org

Garland Avenue Baptist Church begins its

Fall Music Series with

Saint Paul’s Baptist Church Male Chorus

in concert

on September 10, 2017 at 3:30 p.m.

Dr. Jeffery O. Smith, Pastor | 2700-2704 Garland Avenue, Richmond, Va. 23222-3602

(804) 321-1372 • Email: garlandavebc@gmail.com

Sixth mount Zion baptiSt ChurCh presents September 8, 2017 • 7:00pm

Anniversary Banquet

150th

Special Guests: Violinist Eric Stanley Plunky & Oneness Resound

at The Renaissance (Ticket Prices: $25 for ages 3-12; $75 ages 13 and up)

September 16, 2017 6:00pm

3rd AnnuAl lip Sync BAttle

September 17 • 10:45 am

150 th

Anniversary & Homecoming Worship t us Mee

Riverview

Baptist Church 2604 Idlewood Avenue Richmond, Va. 23220 (804) 353-6135 www.riverviewbaptistch.org Rev. Dr. Stephen L. Hewlett, Pastor Rev. Dr. Ralph Reavis, Sr. Pastor Emeritus

SUNDAY SCHOOL - 9:45 A.M. SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE 11:00 A.M.

  

1408 W. eih Sree  ichmo a. 0 804 5840



 Church School Worship Service

Annual Family Day Union Baptist Church and Church Grounds Bring your own lawn chairs and dress casually

Sunday, September 10, 2017 Sunday School – 10:00 a.m.  Morning Worship – 11:00 a.m.

Theme:“Genuine Friends Become Family” “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly; and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”

Proverbs 18:24 (KJV)

Union Baptist ChUrCh

1813 Everett Street, Richmond, VA 23224 • (804) 231-5884 rev. roBert C. Davis, pastor

Mount Olive Baptist Church Rev. Darryl G. Thompson, Pastor

2017 Theme: The Year of Elevation (First Peter 5:6)

8:45 a.m.

10 a.m.

 ile Su

Family Day/Grandparent’ Day

Union Baptist Church Cordially Invites You And Your Family To Our

1 p.m.

 e ercies iisr  a.m. ul ile Su :0 p.m. ie oore Sree o 



8775 Mount Olive Avenue Glen Allen, Virginia 23060 (804) 262-9614 Phone (804) 262-2397 Fax www.mobcva.org

Homecoming

Sunday, September 10, 2017 Worship Service @ 10 AM Pastor Darryl G. Thompson

Fall Revival

Monday – Wednesday September 11 - 13, 2017 7:00 PM Nightly 6:45 PM Prayer & Praise Rev. Marcus Martin, Pastor New Bridge Baptist Church, Richmond, VA

Day/Grandparent’ y l Da mi y

Fa

14 West Duval Street, Richmond, Va. 23220 Phone: 804.648.7511 • Web: www.smzbc.org Rev. Tyrone E. Nelson, Pastor

nt!

Mou e h at T

Rev. Dr. Marvin McMickle

Richmond Free Press

B4 September 7-9, 2017

Faith News/Directory

We never closed our doors. We’re a church, for goodness’ sake. In fact, late, late Sunday (evening) or early Monday (Aug. 27 and Aug. 28), we took in three different people who needed shelter,” he continued. “We had Pastor staff on site through the storm, and some of those staff were there to take people in if they came.”

Now serving as a shelter, Lakewood has become a receiving station for what Mr. Iloff said “must be at least a ton” of infant supplies and other goods.

He said about 200 people — “most of whom were probably our members” — were on hand to receive donations from lines of vehicles that stretched around the church complex.

From Lakewood, volunteers are sending the supplies to the two main Red Cross shelters in Houston.

He said the church property is drying out from waters that nearly breached levees and floodgates around the complex.

In 2001, when the church building was the city’s Compaq Center, a basketball arena, it flooded during Tropical Storm Allison.

Lakewood will be responding to Hurricane Harvey “for years to come,” Mr. Iloff added.

“We have ministries that go out into the community on an ongoing basis — and have before the storm. But now everything we do is going to be related to this storm. That’s where the need is going to be.”

And while Mr. Iloff admitted it was “surreal” to see Lakewood trending on Twitter thanks to the intense criticism, he said the controversy hasn’t fazed the ministry’s leadership.

“If Twitter can derail your mission, you’ve got the wrong mission,” Mr. Iloff said. “It’s not going to destroy us.”

On Sunday, Sept. 3, which was proclaimed by President Trump as a National Day of

Pastor Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston is helping Texans cope in the wake of Hurricane Harvey — and trying to counter a flood of comments on social media accusing the church of turning its back on storm victims.

The church took in about 400 people from the overflow at Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center, a Red Cross shelter, church spokesman Don Iloff said last week.

But to many, it seemed as if the popular televangelist, who preaches a prosperity gospel, could have done more sooner to make the 16,000-seat congregation a haven for those hit by the massive storm, which made landfall on Aug. 25.

Emily Brandwin was one of many on Twitter who took Pastor Osteen to task, tweeting: “When You Know Better, Do Better. Joel Osteen You Knew Better. The city shouldn’t have to ask you to open your Church doors, you knew better.”

Pastor Osteen took to the airwaves to defend himself and his church, explaining last week on national television that contrary to his critics’ claim that the church had remained dry, parts of Lakewood had flooded, and that city officials initially designated the church as a distribution center, not a shelter.

Pastor Osteen, who is widely known for his best-selling books, including “Your Best Life Now,” has a television audience of 7 million for his weekly sermons, and more than 20 million monthly around the world, where he broadcasts to more than 100 countries.

The charismatic non-denominational preacher and his church were widely criticized for not responding in a Christian-like manner to families in Houston affected by the disaster.

Mr. Iloff also disputed the charge that Lakewood had locked out a needy public.

“I can’t repeat it enough:



Stephone André Hayes

Megapastor tries to defend himself after Hurricane Harvey Free Press wire reports



February 12, 1976 – September 5, 2016  An Eternal Memory  Of A Much Loved SON

Prayer for victims of Hurricane Harvey and for national response and recovery efforts, the service at Pastor Osteen’s megachurch was filled with talk of the deadly storm and its aftermath, and the way forward.

Osteen “Harvey came, but it didn’t take us out,” Pastor Osteen said, after congregants listened to a live band accompanied by a light show, while many of the attendees stood and waved their arms. “We are going to come out of this stronger than before.”

Pastor Osteen urged those at the service and those watching online, “Don’t run away from your faith, run to your faith.”

He assured them, “Joy comes in the morning.”

VBS 2017

Ebenezer Baptist Church 1858

“The People’s Church”

216 W. Leigh St. • Richmond, Va. 23220 Tel: 804-643-3366 • Fax: 804-643-3367 Email: ebcoffice1@yahoo.com • web: www.richmondebenezer.com Sunday Worship Sunday Church School Service of Holy Communion Service of Baptism Life Application Bible Class Mid-Week Senior Adult Fellowship Wednesday Meditation & Bible Study Homework & Tutoring Scouting Program Thursday Bible Study

11:00 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

Every 3rd Sunday 2nd Sunday, 11 a.m.

Mon. 6:30 p.m.

Tues. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Wed. 6:45 p.m.

Wed. 4:30 p.m.

Wed. 6:00 p.m.

Thurs., 11:45 a.m.

Dr. Wallace J. Cook, Pastor Emeritus  Rev. Dr. James E. Leary, Interim Pastor

This poem is for someone WONDERFUL as loved as one could be!

For you were our EVERYTHING in life but God called and set you free!

Sometimes life can feel so unkind when hearts are torn in two …

But nothing ever could compare to the pain we experienced losing YOU! Stephone all the love you left behind forever will live on.

And so until we meet again, rest peacefully our dear SON. Forever in our hearts, Mama and Daddy

Maricia S. and Samuel P. Hayes WE MISS YOU DADDY! DeAndra’ and Keyona

St. Peter Baptist Church Dr. Kirkland R. Walton, Pastor

Worship Opportunities Sundays:

Morning Worship Church School Morning Worship

8 A.M. 9:30 A.M. 11 A.M.

Unity Sundays (2nd Sundays): Church School Morning Worship

8:30 A.M. 10 A.M.

Thursdays:

Mid-Day Bible Study 12 Noon Prayer & Praise 6:30 P.M. Bible Study 7 P.M. (Children/Youth/Adults)

The Agape Singers of St. Peter Baptist Church will celebrate their

15th AnniVeRsARy

sunday, september 10, 2017 at 4:00 p.m.

“Love Lifted Me” Psalm 40:2b-3a 2040 Mountain Road • Glen Allen, Virginia 23060 Office 804-262-0230 • Fax 804-262-4651 • www.stpeterbaptist.net

Broad Rock Baptist Church

Triumphant

Baptist Church

2003 Lamb Avenue Dr. Arthur M. Jones, Sr., Pastor (804) 321-7622

5106 Walmsley Blvd., Richmond, VA 23224 804-276-2740 • 804-276-6535 (fax) www.BRBCONLINE.org

Church School - 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service - 11:15 a.m.

Early Morning Worship ~ 8 a.m.

Sunday School ~ 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship ~ 11 a.m.

4th Sunday Unified Worship Service ~ 9:30 a.m.

Bible Study: Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. & 7 p.m.

Sermons Available at BRBCONLINE.org

Bible Study: Tuesday - 9 a.m.

Wednesday - 7 p.m.

“MAKE IT HAPPEN” Pastor Kevin Cook

Prayer Services: Wednesday (1st & 3rd ) 7 a.m.

Every Wednesday 8 p.m.

Communion - 1st Sunday

Mission Statement: People of God developing Disciples for Jesus Christ through Preaching and Teaching of God’s Holy Word reaching the people of the Church and the Community.

Sharon Baptist Church 22 E. Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23219 • 643-3825 thesharonbaptistchurch.com Rev. Dr. Paul A. Coles, Pastor

Services: 500 E. Laburnum Avenue, Richmond, VA 23222

Wednesdays

Sunday, September 10, 2017

6:00 p.m. ..... Prayer Service 6:30 p.m. ..... Bible Study

8:30 a.m. ... Sunday School 10:00 a.m... Morning Worship

1:30 p.m. ..... Bible Study

Thursdays

Good Shepherd Baptist Church 1127 North 28th St., Richmond, VA 23223-6624 • Office: (804) 644-1402 Dr. Sylvester T. Smith, Pastor “There’s A Place for You” Tuesday Sunday 10:30 AM Bible Study 9:30 AM Church School 6:30 PM Church-wide Bible Study 11:00 AM Worship Service 6:30 PM Men's Bible Study (Each 2nd and 4th) (Holy Communion Thursday each 2nd Sunday) Wednesday (Following 2nd Sunday) 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting

New Deliverance Evangelistic Church

11:00 AM Mid-day Meditation

1701 Turner Road, North Chesterfield, Virginia 23225 (804) 276-0791 office (804)276-5272 fax www.ndec.net

“Am I My Brother’s Keeper”

Genesis 4:9

Remember...

At New Deliverance, You Are Home!

See you there and bring a friend.

P ILGRIM J OURNEY B APTIST C HURCH R EV. ANGELO V. C HATMON, P ASTOR 7204 Bethlehem Road • Henrico, VA 23228 • (804) 672-9319 “MEN ON THE JOURNEY”

Thirty-first Street Baptist Church

MEN’S DAY (All Are Welcome )

PRAYER BREAKFAST

(Everyone Invited to Attend)

SEPTEMBER 10, 2017

SEPTEMBER 9, 2017 - 9:00 A.M.

SERVICE - 10:00 A.M.

Speaker: Eric L. Booker, LTC, LG Battalion Commander

Speaker: Rev. Quenton E. Trice UVA Chaplain & Associate Minister Zion Baptist Church North Garden, VA

LIVE MUSIC AND DISCUSSION DONATION: $10 For Information or tickets contact: Dave Camp (804) 307-1413 Deacon Anthony Jones (804) 307-5604 Maynard Pleasant (804) 241-6112 Paul Barksdale (804) 221-9380

www.pjbcrichmond.org

https://www.facebook.com/PilgrimJourney/

3200 East Broad Street Richmond, Virginia 23223 (804) 226-1176

Serving Richmond since 1887

WedneSday 12:00 p.m. Bible Study 7:00 p.m. Bible Study



Sunday 9:00 a.m. Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Worship Service

All ARe Welcome

C

o

everence e with e evanc R ing Dr. Morris Henderson, Senior Pastor bin

Bishop G. O. Glenn D. Min., Pastor Mother Marcietia S. Glenn First Lady

❖

SUNDAYS Church School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. ❖

WEDNESDAYS Bible Study 12:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. ❖

MONDAY-FRIDAY Nutrition Center and Clothes Closet 11:30 a.m. & 1:00 p.m.

823 North 31st Street Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 226-0150 Office www.31sbc.org

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Hebrew 12:14 (KJV)

Sunday 8:00 a.m. Sunday School 9:00 a.m. Worship Service

Tune in on Sunday Morning to WTVR - Channel 6 - 8:30 a.m.

Wednesday Services

Thursday & Friday Radio Broadcast WREJ 1540 AM Radio - 8:15 a.m.- 8:30 a.m.

Noonday Bible Study 12noon-1:00 p.m.

Sanctuary - All Are Welcome!

Wednesday Evening Bible Study 7 p.m. Prayer

Saturday 8:30 a.m. Intercessory Prayer

You can now view Sunday Morning Service “AS IT HAPPENS” online!

Also, for your convenience, we now offer “full online giving.”

Visit www.ndec.net.

THE NEW DELIVERANCE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (NDCA)

ENROLL NOW!!!

Accepting applications for children 2 yrs. old to 3rd Grade Our NDCA curriculum also consists of a Before and After program.

Now Enrolling for our Nursery Ages 6 weeks - 2yrs. old.

For more information Please call (804) 276-4433 Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm

Richmond Free Press

September 7-9, 2017 B5

Legal Notices Divorce VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HENRICO MARGARET J. JACOBSON, Plaintiff v.

TED W. JACOBSON, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17-1760 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce.

WHEREFORE, an affidavit having been filed by the Plaintiff, Margaret J. Jacobson, that due diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of the Defendant, Ted W. Jacobson, it is ORDERED that Ted W. Jacobson appear before this Court on October 30, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. and protect his interests herein.

An Extract, Teste: HEIDI S. BARSHINGER, Clerk Mary Ashby Brown, Esq. Friedman Law Firm PC 9401 Courthouse Road Chesterfield, VA 23832 (804) 717-1969 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER DAMIEN DUGGER, Plaintiff v.

PREZSHEA BAKER, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17001476-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months.

It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 26th day of October, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. and protect her interests.

A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER MARLON LUNDY, Plaintiff v.

CHANETTELLE LUNDY, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17002221-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months.

It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the26th day of October, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. and protect her interests.

A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF PRINCE GEORGE YVETTE FLORES, Plaintiff v.

OSCAR BLANCAS CRUZ, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17-595 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to grant Yvette Flores, the Plaintiff, a divorce from Oscar Blancas Cruz, the Defendant, on the ground that the Plaintiff and Defendant have lived separate and apart for a period in excess of one year.

WHEREFORE, an affidavit having been filed that due diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of Oscar Blancas Cruz, it is hereby ORDERED that Oscar Blancas Cruz appear before the Circuit Court for the County of Prince George by September 26, 2017, which is no less than fifty days from the entry of this order, to protect his interests herein.

An Extract, Teste: BISHOP KNOTT, JR., Clerk Raul Novo, Esq.(VSB#41064) Novo Taghavi, Ltd. 1500 Forest Ave. Suite 124 Richmond, VA 23229 Phone: (804) 614-6920 Fax: (804) 528-4142 Email: info@novotaghavi.com Counsel for the Plaintiff VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE COUNTY OF HENRICO JESSICA LEE LANE, Plaintiff v.

PEDRO LOPEZ MARTINEZ, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17-1913 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of abovestyled suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the Defendant on the grounds that the parties have lived separate and apart, without any cohabitation and without any interruption, for a period of more than one year.

It appearing by affidavit filed according to law that the Defendant, Pedtro Lopez Martinez, is not a resident of the State of Virginia and Continued on next column

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that his last known address is unknown, it is therefore ORDERED that Defendant, Pedro Lopez Martinez, appear before this Court on or before the 2nd day of October, 2017 and do what is necessary to protect his interests in this suit.

A Copy, Teste: HEIDI S. BARSHINGER, Clerk I ask for this: Jesse Baez, Esq. (VSB #85986) Hairfield Morton, PLC 2800 Buford Road, Suite 201 Richmond, Virginia 23235 (804 320-6600 telephone (804) 320-8040 facsimile Counsel for Plaintiff

Order of Publication Henrico County Circuit Court Commonwealth of Virginia, In re Ashley Beacham (Name change minor) Brian Matthew Dimantova III v.

Brian Dimantova II Case No. CL17-2472 The object of this is to notify Brian Matthew Dimantova II of the name change hearing.

It is ORDERED that Brian Matthew Dimantova II appear at the above named court and protect his interests on or before October 6, 2017 at 9am. virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt Of the City of Richmond Commonwealth of Virginia, in re JONATHAN ALVARENGA-GARAY File No. JJ094740-01-00 OrDEr Of puBLicatiON

The object of this suit is to: Seek custody of Jonathan Abraham Alvarenga Garay.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Ana Nicolasa Garay Molina, appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before 12/07/2017, at 10:20 AM

JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

DANIEL BOINEST, et al.

Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-3850 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 1315 North 27th Street, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number E0000622/023, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Daniel Boinest.

An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, DANIEL BOINEST, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action, and and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that DANIEL BOINEST and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19. 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER KACHELLE BROWN, Plaintiff v.

JAMES BROWN, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17002069-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months.

It is ORDERED that the defendant, who whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 6th day of October, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. and protect his interests.

A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to: (1) Grant sole legal and physical custody of Iker Santiago Aguilar Acosta (DOB: 10/8/11), whose mother is Melissa S. Acosta Corrales, and whose father is Santiago D. Aguilar Garcia, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 16.1241A3. Father’s whereabouts are unknown.

(2) Make factual findings that will permit Iker Santiago Aguilar Acosta to apply for special immigrant juvenile status with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services pursuant to Section 101(A) (27)(J) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 USC Section 1101(A)(27)(J), 8 CFR Section 204.11.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Santiago D. Aguilar Garcia appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before October 6, 2017 at 10:00 AM.

POINDEXTER WITHERS, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that KERI B. CHRISTENSEN, JAMES B. WITHERS, and SPRATLEY W. FRAZIER, who may have an ownership interest in said property, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that HELENA POINDEXTER W I T H ER S , K ERI B .

CHRISTENSEN, JAMES B. WITHERS, SPRATLEY W. FRAZIER, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19, 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

Instrument Number 01-412, or his successor/s in title, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that DIXIE L. JONES, DECEASED, who may be the holder of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property, recorded January 5, 2001, at Instrument Number 01412, or her heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that CRAIG E. CALDWELL TRUST, Cheryl Caldwell Young pka Cheryl Mirabell Caldwell, Trustee, who is not a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia, which may be a creditor with an interest in said property, has not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that C H A R L E S H . D AVI S , DECEASED, CHARLES H A RVE Y D AVI S , S R .

IRREVOCABLE TRUST, Ursula E. Seay, Trustee, SUE DAVIS GARNETT, DECEASED, MICHAEL G. SHEPARD, DECEASED, TRUSTEE, of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property, recorded January 5, 2001, at Instrument Number 01-412, or his successor/s in title, DIXIE L. JONES, DECEASED, who may be the holder of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property, recorded January 5, 2001, at Instrument Number 01-412, or her heirs, devisees, assignees or successors in title, CRAIG E. CALDWELL TRUST, Cheryl Caldwell Young pka Cheryl Mirabell Caldwell, Trustee, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19. 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF HANOVER KHALID COLEMAN, Plaintiff v.

SHENITA WILLIAMS, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17001431-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months.

It is ORDERED that the defendant, who has been served with the Complaint by posted service appear here on or before the10th day of October, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. in Courtroom 2 and protect her interests.

A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure Counsel for Plaintiff VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING HERBERT LINWOOD ALLMON, JR., Plaintiff vs.

ZENADA LAKEISHA ALLMON, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17-260-4 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony, from the defendant, on the ground that the parties hereto have lived separate and apart continuously, without cohabitation and without interruption for more than one year.

And it appearing from an affidavit that the whereabouts of the defendant are unknown and that she may not be a resident of Virginia, it is Ordered that the defendant appear before this Court on September 21, 2017, at 9:00 o’clock a.m. pursuant to this notice and protect her interest herein.

A Copy, Teste: EDWARD F. JEWETT, Clerk I ask for this: Donald M. White, Esquire 130 Thompson Street Ashland, Virginia 23005 (804) 798-1661 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF CHESTERFIELD MOHAMMED K. ALAIWI, Plaintiff v.

MENA AL-KHOZAI, Defendant.

Case No.: CL17-600 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce.

WHEREFORE, an affidavit having been filed by the Plaintiff that due diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of Mena Al-Khozai, it is ORDERED that Mena Al-Khozai appear before this Court on September 29, 2017 at 11:00 a.m., to protect her interests herein.

A Copy, Teste: WENDY S. HUGHES, Clerk I ASK FOR THIS: Rick A. Friedman, II, Esquire (VSB#46870) Sarah J. Conner, Esquire (VSB #87415) Friedman Law Firm, P.C. 9401 Courthouse Rd., Suite A Chesterfield, VA 23832 (804) 717-1969 (telephone) (804) 748-4161 (telecopier) rfriedman@friedmanlawva.com sconner@friedmanlawva.com Counsel for the Plaintiff

STATE OF INDIANA: IN THE HAMILTON SUPERIOR COURT 1 COUNTY OF HAMILTON IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF INFANT FEMALE ENDER CAUSE NO.: 29D01-1708-AD-1092 NOTICE TO UNNAMED FATHER

The unnamed putative father of the child born to Leana Dawn Ender, or the person who claims to be the father of the child born to Leana Dawn Ender on August 25, 2017, is notified that a Petition for Adoption of the child was filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Hamilton County Superior Court, 1 Hamilton County Square, Noblesville, Indiana 46060.

If the unnamed putative father seeks to contest the adoption of the child, the unnamed putative father must file a motion to contest the Adoption in accordance with I.C. 31-19-10-1 in the abovenamed Court within thirty (30) days after the date of service of this Notice. This Notice may be served by publication.

If the unnamed putative father does not file a motion to contest the Adoption within thirty (30) days after service of this Notice the above-named Court will hear and determine the Petition for Adoption. The unnamed putative father’s Consent is irrevocably implied and the unnamed putative father loses the right to contest the adoption or the validity of the unnamed putative father’s implied consent to the adoption. The unnamed putative father loses the right to establish paternity of the child under I.C. 31-14.

Nothing Leana Dawn Ender or anyone else says to the unnamed putative father of the child relieves the unnamed putative father of his obligations under this notice.

Under Indiana law, a putative father is a person who is named as or claims that he may be the father of a child born out of wedlock but who has not yet been legally proven to be the child’s father.

This Notice complies with I.C. 31-19-4-4, but does not exhaustively set forth the unnamed putative father’s legal obligations under the Indiana adoption statutes.

A person being served with this Notice should consult the Indiana adoption statutes.

Tammy Baitz, CLERK, Hamilton Superior Court Prepared by: Nathan A. Leach (Attorney #25673-49) HERRIN & LEACH, LLC 3815 River Crossing Parkway, Suite 100 Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317) 566-2174 Nate@IndianaAdoptionLawyer.com virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt Of the City of Richmond Commonwealth of Virginia, in re BRENT DANIEL BROOKS File No. J-090872-10 OrDEr Of puBLicatiON

The object of this suit is to: Terminate the residual parental rights (“RPR”) Unknown (Father), of Brent Daniel Brooks, child, DOB 04/23/2015, “RPR” means all rights and responsibilities remaining with parent after transfer of legal custody or guardianship of the person, including but not limited to rights of: visitation; adoption consent; determination of religious affiliation; and responsibility for support.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Unknown (Father), to appear at the above-named Court and protect his interest on or before 10/25/2017, at 2:00 PM, CourtRoom #5

CUSTODY

virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt Of thE coUNty Of ChESTERFIELD Commonwealth of Virginia, in re IKER Santiago Acosta; MELISSA S. ACOSTSA CORRALES v.

SANTIAGO D. AGUILAR GARCIA Case No. JJ091416-01-00

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virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt Of thE coUNty Of ChESTERFIELD Commonwealth of Virginia, in re ATHENA JOHNSON ALAN JOHNSON v.

LEXY COPE ORDER OF PUBLICATION Case No. JJ061312-01-03

The object of this suit is to: Grant sole legal custoday of Athena Johnson (DOB: 12/24/00) to Alan Johnson, father, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 16.1-241A3.

Mother is Lexy Cope. Mother’s last known address is 706 E. Washington St., Henrico, VA.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Lexy Cope appear at the above-named Court and protect her interests on or before October 30, 2017 at 11:00 AM. virgiNia: iN thE JuvENiLE aND DOmEstic rELatiONs District cOurt Of thE coUNty Of ChESTERFIELD Commonwealth of Virginia, in re WILLIAM RUIZ-RAMOS RUTILIA ALVARADO-LOPEZ v.

JOEL RUIZ Case No. JJ092368-01-00 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to: (1) Determine custody of William Ruiz-Ramos (DOB: 4/15/02), whose mother is deceased, and whose father is Joel Ruiz, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 16.1-241A3.

Father resides at Canton El Corozo Casrio Tamasha, San Francisco Menendez, Ahuachapan, El Salvador.

(2) Make factual findings that will permit William RuizRamos to apply for special immigrant juvenile status with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services pursuant to Section 101(A) (27)(J) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 USC Section 110(A)(27)(J)

It is ORDERED that the defendant Joel Ruiz appear at the above-named Court and protect his interests on or before October 11, 2017 at 10:00 AM.

PROPERTY VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING LONNIE TURNAGE, CHARLES WYNN, SR., JONNELL LILLY, ERNESTINE TOWNES, KEVETTE ELLIOTT TRUSTEES OF ST. JOHN’S UNITED HOLY CHURCH, Plaintiff v.

KENYA BURRELL, TRACEY BURRELL GALLOWAY, JAMES BURRELL, MARVA BURRELL, SHANEISE WILLIAMS, UNKNOWN HEIRS Defendants Case Number CL17-4042-3 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object and purpose of this suit is to permit Plaintiff, Lonnie Turnage, Charles Wynn, Sr., Jonnell Lilly, Ernestine Townes, and Kevette Elliott, Trustees of St. John’s United Holy Church, to purchase the remaining interests outstanding of the real property described as 1517 North 28th Street, Richmond, Virginia, of which Plaintiff currently owns the majority interests.

An affidavit having been made and signed that due diligence has been used by or on behalf of Plaintiff to ascertain in what city or county and at what addresses the Defendants, Kenya Burrell, Tracey Burrell Galloway, James Burrell, Marva Burrell, Shaneise Williams and any Unknown Heirs dwell and the identity of any Unknown Heirs, if any, without effect, it is hereby ORDERED that Kenya Burrell, Tracey Burrell, Galloway, James Burrell, Marva Burrell, Shaneise Williams and any Unknown Heirs appear on the return date of October 30, 2017 at 9:00 AM and do whatever is necessary to protect their interest in said land.

An Extract, Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Kevette B. Elliott, Esq. The Elliott Law Office 5012 Monument Ave, Ste 201 Richmond, VA 23230 804-355-4688 phone 804-355-5355 fax attykbe@gmail.com

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

JAMES E. MILLER, SR., et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-3386 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 3125 4th Avenue, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number N0000998/014, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owners of record, James E. Miller, Sr., and Dorothy C. Miller.

An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, JAMES E. MILLER, SR., has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that said owner, DOROTHY C. MILLER, who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to her last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that JAMES E. MILLER, SR., DOROTHY C. MILLER, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19. 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

KENNETH H. TYLER, et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-2437 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 3310 2nd Avenue, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number N000-1071/007, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owners of record, Kenneth H. Tyler and Dawn Tyler.

An Affidavit having been filed that said owners, KENNETH H. TYLER and DAWN TYLER, who have been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to their last known address, have not been personally located and have not filed a response to this action; that EXCEL CAPITAL 4, LLC, A Foreign Limited Liability Company Transacting business in Virginia without a certificate of registration, which may be a creditor with an interest in said property, has not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that K E N N E T H H . T Y L ER , DAWN TYLER, EXCEL CAPITAL 4, LLC, A Foreign Limited Liability Company Transacting business in Virginia without a certificate of registration, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19. 2017 and do what is necessary to protect

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VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

ROBERT LEROY NELSON, SR., et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-3261 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 2414 Ruffin Road, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number S0080706/007, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Robert Leroy Nelson

An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, ROBERT LEROY NELSON, SR., who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to his last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; that PLAZA MOTORS INC. A purged Virginia Corporation, which may be a creditor with an interest in said property, has not been located and has not files a response to this action; that LANDMARKFLEET SURVEYORS, P.C., Successor in Interest to CHARLES H. FLEET & ASSOC PC, Bruce C. Landes, Registered Agent, which may be a creditor with an interest in said property, has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to the registered agent’s last known address, but has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that ROBERT LEROY NELSON, SR., P L A Z A M O TOR S INC. A purged Virginia Corporation, LANDMARKFLEET SURVEYORS, P.C., Successor in Interest to CHARLES H. FLEET & ASSOC PC, Bruce C. Landes, Registered Agent, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19. 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

FANNIE SMITHERS, et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-3607 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 800 Akron Street, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map/GPIN# N018-0478/018, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owners of record, Fannie Smithers and Jessie H. Thompson.

An Affidavit having been filed that said owners, FANNIE SMITHERS AND JESSIE H. THOMPSON, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that FANNIE SMITHERS, JESSIE H. THOMPSON, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19, 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940 VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

HELENA POINDEXTER WITHERS, et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-3608 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 16 East Bacon Street Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number N000-0228/023, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Helena Poindexter Withers.

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VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

RALPH STOKES, DECEASED, et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-2853 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 2509 North Avenue, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number N0000541/023, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owners of record, Ralph Stokes and Marilyn Stokes Robinson.

An Affidavit having been filed that said owners, RALPH S T O K E S , D ECE A S E D and MARILYN STOKES ROBINSON, DECEASED, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that GLENN E. GREEN aka GLENN EDWARD GREENE, JR., who may have an ownership interest in said property, who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to his/her last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; that UNIFUND CCR PARTNERS, A Foreign Corporation not Authorized to Transact Business in the Commonwealth of Virginia, which may be a creditor with an interest in said property, has not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

I T I S OR D ERE D t h a t R A L P H S TO K E S , D ECE A S E D , M A RI LY N S T O K E S RO B I N S O N , D ECE A S E D , G L E N N E. GREEN aka GLENN EDWARD GREENE, JR., UNIFUND CCR PARTNERS, A Foreign Corporation not Authorized to Transact Business in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19. 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

FREDERICK GOETZ, JR., et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-3727 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 1412 North 22nd Street, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number E000-0776/020, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Frederick Goetz, Jr., An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, FREDERICK GOETZ, JR., has not been located and has not filed a response to this action, and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that FREDERICK GOETZ, JR., and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19. 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

CHARLES H. DAVIS, DECEASED, et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-2855 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 3422 Keighly Road, Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number S0080780/017, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, CHARLES H. DAVIS.

An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, C H A R L E S H . D AVI S , DECEASED, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that CHARLES HARVEY DAVIS, SR. IRREVOCABLE TRUST, Ursula E. Seay, Trustee, which may have an ownership interest in said property, who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to her last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; that SUE DAVIS GARNETT, DECEASED, who may have an ownership interest in said property, has not been located and has not filed a response to this action; that MICHAEL G. SHEPARD, DECEASED, TRUSTEE, of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property, recorded January 5, 2001, at

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND JOHN MARSHALL COURTS BUILDING CITY OF RICHMOND, Plaintiff, v.

JAMIE M. MCNEAL, et al., Defendants.

Case No.: CL17-2845 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to subject the property briefly described as 1606 Sewell Street Richmond, Virginia, Tax Map Number N0000335/006, to sale in order to collect delinquent real estate taxes assessed thereon in the name of the owner of record, Jamie M. McNeal.

An Affidavit having been filed that said owner, JAMIE M. MCNEAL, who has been served by posting and by mailing a copy of the complaint to his last known address, has not been personally located and has not filed a response to this action; that FIELDSTONE MORTGAGE COMPANY, a purged Virginia corporation, which may be the holder of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property, recorded June 15, 2005 at Instrument Number 05-19403, or its successor/s in title, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that SPECIALIZED INC., OF VIRGINIA, A Terminated Virginia Entity, Substitute Trustee, of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property,

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Richmond Free Press

B6 September 7-9, 2017

Sports Plus Stories by Fred Jeter

VUU loses season opener; faces another tough competitor Saturday at Hovey Field Virginia Union University’s season opening football loss wasn’t without a silver lining.

The Panthers seem to have found a bruising ball carrier—Tabyus Taylor—to plug the considerable void left by the departure of William Stanback.

Making his VUU debut, the 6-foot, 250-pound Taylor rolled for 121 yards on 20 carries in the 42-13 loss last Saturday at Long Island University-Post.

The former Hopewell High School AllState performer figures to be a significant part of Coach Mark James’ offense on Saturday, Sept. 9, as the Panthers open their home schedule with a 4 p.m. kickoff against Newberry College of South Carolina.

Dusty Baker

Taylor’s arrival is well timed. Listed as a freshman, he plays the same position as Stanback, who ran for 1,299 yards and 15 touchdowns last fall. Stanback was signed by the NFL’s Green Bay Packers but cut last week.

Taylor is familiar to area football fans.

During his senior season at Hopewell High in 2013, he rushed for 2,066 yard and passed for 1,057 yards with nine touchdowns.

Named Conference 26 Player of the Year, he signed a letter of intent with Virginia Tech but never played for the Hokies because of academic and legal issues.

Another Panthers’ newcomer, quarterback Erwin Faison, completed 14 of 24 passes for 115 yards.

Howie Kendrick

Michael Taylor

VUU had 333 yards to LIU-Post’s 385 and won time of possession – 32 minutes 49 seconds to 22 minutes, 11 seconds.

The Panthers had 11 rushing first downs to the Pioneers’ three. Native Floridian Arron Baker, a senior transfer to VUU from Alcorn State University, added another 70 yards rushing.

Baker scored 25 touchdowns for Alcorn State during the 2014, 2015 and 2016 seasons.

Newberry presents another tough nonconference matchup. Newberry, which is in the South Atlantic Conference, defeated VUU 42-22 a year ago in South Carolina.

The Wolves opened this season with a 31-14 loss at The Citadel in Charleston, S.C.

Edwin Jackson

New York flashback This wasn’t first time Virginia Union University Athletic Director Joe Taylor has taken a Panthers football team to the New York City area.

In 1991 as VUU head coach, Taylor and the VUU Panthers defeated Grambling State University of Louisiana 46-37 in the annual New York Urban Classic at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., home of the NFL New York Giants and New York Jets.

Grambling was coached by the legendar y Eddie Robinson.

Taylor became coach at Hampton University in 1992.

Robinson got even when his Tigers defeated VUU, then coached by Mel Rose, 54-6 in the 1992 New York Urban Classic.

Gio Gonzalez

Anthony Rendon

Wilmer Difo

Diversity takes the field with Washington Nationals Like the cosmopolitan city they represent on the baseball diamond, the Washington Nationals are rich in diversity.

The District of Columbia becomes truly international on game days at Nationals Park, with players linked to five foreign countries and three continents.

Better yet, the Nationals are contending for the city’s first World Series title since 1924, a full 23 years before Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color line.

Success starts at the top at the ball yard located at 1500 S. Capital Street SE along the Anacostia River. Guiding the Nats’ fortunes from the dugout is Dusty Baker, one of two African-American MLB managers. Dave Roberts of the Los Angeles Dodgers is the other.

The unflappable Baker, famous for his everdangling toothpick, has the Nats in a commanding position in the National League East, despite a plague of injuries. Washington began its final month of the season with an 81-51 record and a 15-game lead over the Miami Marlins.

Baker’s mix-and-match lineup, resulting from all the injuries, features All-Stars including right fielder Bryce Harper, second baseman Daniel Murphy and fireball hurler Max Scherzer. All

D.C. Diamond Trivia Perhaps the best known player hailing from Washington is Maury Wills, who was a multi-sports star at Cardozo High School before signing with the thenBrooklyn Dodgers in 1950.

Wills set the MLB record with 104 stolen bases in 1962. The shortstop played on three World Series championship teams with the Los Angeles Dodgers and was a seven-time All-Star.

The first African-American player suiting up for a Washington team was Carlos Paula in 1954. The Cuban-born outfielder had seven triples in 1955.

The Nats one-season, home-run record of 46 was set by Alfonso Soriano in 2006.

The current Nationals originally were the Montreal Expos. Arriving in D.C. in 2005, the Nats played three seasons at RFK Stadium before moving to Nationals Park in 2008. are Caucasian.

Several African-American players also are wearing the “Curly W” logo. Among them: • Howie Kendrick, 34. From Jacksonville, Fla., he came to the Nats in a trade with the Philadelphia Phillies on July 28; the versatile infielder-outfielder was an AL All-Star with the Los Angeles Angels in 2011.

• Michael Taylor, 26. The Fort Lauderdale native possesses power, speed and size — he’s 6-foot-4 — and looms as the star of the future at Nats Park.

• Brian Goodwin, 26. “B-Good” was a 2011 first round draft pick out of Rocky Mount; en route to Washington, he played at The Diamond for the Harrisburg Senators in Pennsylvania.

• Edwin Jackson, 33. A military brat born in New-Ulm, Germany, he is among the most traveled players in MLB history, having played for 12 different teams.

The Nationals’ Latino players include: • Gio Gonzalez, 31. Born in Hialeah, Fla., to Cuban immigrants, he is a quality left-handed starting pitcher with a career record of 115-82, with 1,564 strikeouts.

• Anthony Rendon, 27. A third baseman born in Richmond, Texas, of Mexican ancestry, he went 6-for-6 with three homers and 10 RBI

against the N.Y. Mets on April 30.

• Oliver Perez, 36. A native of Culiacán, Mexico, he is a left-handed relief pitching specialist; this journeyman has played with seven different teams.

• Wilmer Difo, 25. This shortstop/outfielder from the Dominican Republic has chosen such oldies as “Unchained Melody” and “My Girl” for his walk-up music.

• Jose Lobaton, 32. A switch-hitting backup catcher (behind Matt Wieters), he hails from Venezuela.

• Alejandro De Aza, 33. This left-handed, veteran from the Dominican Republic adds outfield depth.

The Nationals’ first base coach is Dave Lopes, a former All-Star second baseman and league stolen base leader of Cape Verdean ancestry.

There is diversity in Washington’s future, too.

The Nats’ first- and second-ranked minor league prospects are outfielders Victor Robles and Juan Soto, both from the Dominican Republic.

Should the team end Washington’s long drought and reach baseball’s fall classic in October, it really would be a “World Series.”

Legal Notices/Employment Opportunities Continued from previous page

Continued from previous column

recorded June 15, 2005 at Instrument Number 05-19403 or its successor/s in title, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; that WALTER L. HOOKER, P.C., A Terminated Virginia Entity, Trustee, of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property, recorded June 15, 2005 at Instrument Number 05-19403 or its successor/s in title, have not been located and have not filed a response to this action; and that any heirs, devisees, assignees, successors in interest, successors in title and/or any creditors with a current or future interest in said property, have not been identified and/or served despite diligent efforts to do so and are defendants to this suit by the general description of “Parties Unknown.”

IT IS ORDERED that JAMIE M. MCNEAL, FIELDSTONE MORTGAGE COMPANY, a purged Virginia corporation, which may be the holder of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property, recorded June 15, 2005 at Instrument Number 05-19403, or its successor/s in title, SPECIALIZED INC., OF VIRGINIA, A Terminated Virginia Entity, Substitute Trustee, of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property,

recorded June 15, 2005 at Instrument Number 0519403 or its successor/s in title, WALTER L. HOOKER, P.C., A Terminated Virginia Entity, Trustee, of a certain Note secured by a Deed of Trust with respect to said property, recorded June 15, 2005 at Instrument Number 05-19403 or its successor/s in title, and Parties Unknown, come forward to appear on or before OCTOBER 19. 2017 and do what is necessary to protect their interests in this matter.

An Extract, Teste: Edward F. Jewett, Clerk Gregory A. Lukanuski, Esq. City of Richmond, Office of the City Attorney 900 E. Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-7940

Continued on next column

Following Positions needed for Assisted Living Facility.

1 Full-Time Position For CNA or PCA 1 PRN Position For CNA or PCA Please bring copy of current TB report when applying.

All references will be checked.

Good Pay — Good Days Off. Call for appointment (804) 222-5133

Ministry Opportunities:

St. James Baptist Church of Varina has the following positions available:

Thank you for your interest in applying for opportunities with The City of Richmond.

To see what opportunities are available, please refer to our website at www.richmondgov.com.

EOE M/F/D/V

in the

Richmond Free Press

call 644-0496

Interested candidates are asked to submit your credentials to:

webmaster@sjbcofvarina.org

These positions will remain open until filled.

A criminal background check is required.

No Phone Calls Please.

Field Service Engineer: TransiT sysTem

BUS CLEANER

Part - Time Starting Wage: $11.07 per hour Closes: September15, 2017 GRTC seeks qualified candidates at least 21 years of age with a high school education to perform general cleaning duties, to include the interior and exterior of our buses. The position is part-time, 29 hours per week: Monday – Thursday 8:00AM to 2:30PM, Friday 8:00AM to 1:30PM. Candidates must pass a background check and pre-employment drug test. Those interested in the position may apply online at www.ridegrtc.com.

Job located in Richmond, VA: Install and commission food packaging equipment; Train operators in the U.S. in heat sealing technologies and line integration techniques; Provide electromechanical front line support to U.S. food producers to maintain the smooth running of production lines. Requires: Two years of experience in food production environment with a primary focus on heat sealing; Experience must include developing and installing heat sealing equipment; VSP technology and servicing and repairing automated heat sealing equipment. Send resumes to: Proseal America Inc., Attn: Ted Jones, 7611 Whitepine Rd., Richmond, VA 23237

The Division of Legislative Services, the primary legal and research agency for the General Assembly of Virginia, is seeking attorneys licensed in Virginia to join its professional staff. These highly visible positions primarily entail drafting legislation for, and staffing of, the General Laws committees of the General Assembly, including undertaking research and policy analysis. Additional areas of responsibility may include election laws.

Requirements include excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills. These are entry level positions with a starting salary of $60,000. Health insurance, retirement, and other state benefits included.

To apply, submit a resume, letter of interest, and writing sample no later than September 18, 2017, to Stephanie Kerns (skerns@dls.virginia.gov).

NOTE: “General Laws attorney” should appear in the subject line of your e-mail.

Graphic design part-time

Richmond Free Press is seeking a reliable and creative person for a part-time graphics position.

Enthusiastic individual must be proficient in Indesign and Photoshop to produce accurate, high quality camera-ready advertisements and news page layouts for print publication. Meticulous attention to details.

Ability to be flexible and work under deadline cooperatively in a team environment is essential. Submit resumé and samples of work to: Human Resources, Richmond Free Press, P.O. Box 27709, Richmond, Virginia 23261.

No phone calls please.

School Nurse – RN/BSN Health Services For application and full job description, access www.rvaschools.net. Richmond Public Schools will conduct a background investigation, tuberculosis screening and drug/alcohol testing as a condition of employment. EOE.

Policy & Planning Specialist II/ Senior Research Analyst (Position #00417)

GRTC is an equal opportunity employer with a drug-free work environment.

The Virginia Division of Legislative Services Attorneys

To advertise

Organist/Pianist/Worship Leader Youth Minister

Mt. Sinai Baptist Church located in Midlothian, Virginia is looking for a spirit filled, passionate and dedicated musician for our music ministry. Preferably, someone to play for all worship services and support our choirs for outside engagements. They would need to be flexible, organized and able to work with God’s people. Interested persons are asked to contact the church office at (804)794-5624 or email mtsinaibaptistchurch@aol.com

(RE-ANNOUNCEMENT)

PSYCHOLOGY INSTRUCTOR (Position #FO039) (J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, Richmond, VA) Master’s degree in Psychology, or a Master’s degree with eighteen (18) graduate semester hours in Psychology from an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited university is required.

The selected candidate must be able to successfully pass the college’s pre-employment security screening.

TYPE OF APPOINTMENT: Full-time, ninemonth teaching faculty-ranked appointment. Salary range: $32,832–$108,508. Approximate maximum hiring salary: $65,000. Salary commensurate with the education and experience of the applicant.

Additional information is available at the College’s website: www.reynolds.edu. Review of applications will begin OCTOBER 20, 2017, position to be filled for Spring 2018.

AA/EOE/ADA/Veterans/ AmeriCorps/Peace Corps/Other National Service Alumni are encouraged to apply.

Under the leadership of the director of the Office of Institutional Effectiveness (OIE), the Senior Research Analyst is responsible for fulfilling assigned routine and ad hoc requests for data and reports using the college’s student information system and other data sources and software as appropriate; automating and coordinating the unit’s Ask OIE system (request for data and information); serving as OIE’s staff project leader to maintain the “essential college facts and figures” website and online college fact book; conducting survey research as assigned by the director; and creating/monitoring a data production and publishing schedule for IRrelated data on OIE’s website.

TYPE OF APPOINTMENT: Full-time classified position with state benefits. Approximate starting salary, $43,892–$49,343, based on related full-time experience and pre-employment salary. Additional information is available at the College’s website: www.reynolds.edu.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will be accepted through September 22, 2017.

AA/EOE/ADA/Veterans/AmeriCorps/ Peace Corps/Other National Service Alumni are encouraged to apply.