RV52114

Vol. 28 No. 22 (2180 Edition)

May 21 - 27, 2014

PRST STD - U.S. POSTAGE PAID RICHMOND, VA PERMIT NO. 639

FREE

Beyond Broke: Recession’s effects on ethnic families

NAM — Black, Hispanic and Asian Americans face an economic “quadruple whammy,” leaving them with little or no financial cushion as they age, finds a new study released Monday.

Titled “Beyond Broke: Why Closing the Racial Wealth Gap is a Priority for National Economic Security,” the study used 2011 Census data to examine household worth for all ages. It found that the medium net worth of households of color from 2005-2011 dropped 58 percent for Latinos, 48 percent for Asians, 45 percent for African Americans — but only 21 percent for whites.

“You have the racial gap in pay, the gender gap in pay, the ageism gap in pay and predominantly single-income households,” said Maya Rockeymoore, president of the Center for Global Policy

Maya Rockeymoore

and you were counting on equity in your home to perhaps cash out to help with expenses, you don’t have that to rely on,” said Rockeymoore, former research

director of the Congressional Black Caucus. “You have less wiggle room, less assets that could be liquidated into something that could help support you over your retirement years.”

“Beyond Broke” stresses that most black and Latino households don’t have enough liquid assets to “cover their basic living expenses if they are without income for three months.”

Only one-third of African American households and one-quarter of Hispanic households can meet their short-term cash needs, compared with two-thirds of whites.

“The average liquid wealth of whites ($23,000 in cash reserves) is now over 100 times that of African Americans and more than 65 times that held by Latinos,” according to the study, conducted by researchers from the University of North

Carolina, Chapel Hill, Duke University and the New School in New York.

Put another way, for every one dollar in wealth held by the typical white family, African American and Latino households retain merely six and seven cents respectively.

Although Asians lost nearly half of their home equity, their major tangible asset, they averaged $19,500 in cash reserves, and were slightly ahead of whites in having checking accounts, while also trailing whites in retirement accounts and other financial assets.

Part of the study looked at ethnic subgroups and found, for instance, that in Los Angeles, Chinese and Japanese Americans held five or six times the financial assets of generally lower income See “Beyond

Brokeˮ on pg. 2

Venture Richmond responds

By Sylvina Poole For some time now, a local resident has criticized the actions stemming from a partnership between city leaders and a local group.

From no-bid contracts that allegedly don’t pan out well to alleged “sweetheart“ deals, Charles Pool has publicly said that the mayor’s administration has taken a “soft” approach to holding Venture Richmond accountable. More specifically, the ampitheatre project development that has yet to come to fruition in meeting the standard procurement requirements.

Richmond City Council gave Venture Richmond the green light to begin construction on a proposed amphitheater on Tredegar Green that when completed, would host Venture Richmond’s Richmond Folk Festival main stage. Pool has also criticized before Richmond City Council three budget ordinances that would grant exemption from real estate taxation for

three of Venture Richmond’s Tredegar Green properties.

John Bates, Venture Richmond’s General Council recently responded to Pool’s charges, noting that “Pool has again used only a portion of the facts to weave a tale of impropriety.”

“The entire story is that in the 1990’s, private property owners adjoining the canal conveyed enough property to the city to permit the construction of the Canal Walk. The city leased that land to Richmond Riverfront Corporation, a predecessor of Venture Richmond, which then raised significant private sums and with the city developed the Canal Walk. That lease from the city is still in place. RRC then purchased the canal boats with privately contributed funds. Upon completion of construction the management agreement that Mr. Pool See “Responseˮ on pg. 2

MLK in Newport News On Saturday, the focal-point of Newport News’ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza in Newport News made its public debut. “The Unfinished March” by Ed Hamilton is a life size bronze bas relief of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. along with the men, women and children walking along side of the civil rights leader. The $281,000 sculpture’s arrival had been delayed well beyond a Nov. 30 delivery date that was set in the city’s contract. But its unveiling was met with a great deal of anticipation.

2 • May 21 - 27, 2014

The Richmond Voice

Richmond city leaders reach agreement on capital budget

Sylvina Poole Finally, after much deliberations, city leaders recently reached an agreement on the capital budget. Richmond City Council President Charles Samuels said he feels the meeting of the minds is more a compromise than anything else.

Samuels, however, did not give any details over what items were left out that he would have liked to see included in the highly-anticipated plan.

“I am pleased with this agreement that invests in our shared priorities to move the cvity forward and avoids a mayoral veto or override,” said Samuels.

“Richmond City Council and the mayor came together, negotiated in good faith, and produced a positive result for the city.”

Samuels noted that he is supportive of the agreement reached.

Mayor Dwight C. Jones said he was encouraged to see the outpouring of support for public schools this year.

“From my conversations with students, members of the School Board and City Council, and due to my confidence in our new school superintendent, I’m pleased that we’ve been able to add additional funding for public schools,” he said. “We’re all committed to our public school, the

Beyond Broke from page 1

families, is a significant nest egg. When you lose it, you’re hanging by the tips of your fingernails.”

The CGPS report comes on the heels of another study from the Urban Institute, which found that the racial wealth gap is growing sharply with age.

Titled “Impact of the Great Recession and Beyond: Disparities in Wealth Building By Generation and Race,” the study reports that in their 30s and 40s, whites have about 3.5 times more wealth than African Americans and Hispanics. By the time people reach their early-to-mid 60s, whites have about seven times the wealth of blacks and Hispanics.

Vietnamese Americans.

The sinking of home equity also affects entire families, Rockeymoore emphasized.

“For the adult children, it may mean stepping up to help their parents more. For the grandparents, it may mean using everything they’ve got for their own consumption and not having extra to help out their children and grandchildren. It’s really an intergenerational hit, when elders aren’t able to maintain and grow their assets.

“For seniors in retirement, it means relying more on Social Security. So home equity, particularly for moderate-income

Response from page 1

refers to was entered into.”

Venture Richmond’s predecessor was the only eligible manager, since it was the lessee of the property and the owner of the canal boats, Bates explained.

“No other entity could qualify. This procurement process is one known as “sole source”, when there is only one eligible bidder. Today, that is still the case.

Venture Richmond owns the leasehold rights and the canal boats, so there can be no other bidder for the services. As the owner of these leasehold rights, it controls entertainment on Brown’s Island, presenting some, like the Folk Festival, and permitting others to present entertainment from time to time. Brown’s Island and the Canal Walk continue to be open freely to the public 24-7.

It should also be noted the cost of these management services to the city has actually diminished over the two decades of operation by Venture Richmond, even though costs of operation have increased.

Venture Richmond is a good steward of the

Canal Walk, providing a very beautiful and cost effective amenity to the city.”

Pool alleged however in what he called “Venture Richmond no-bid grant contract” that according to this grant, Venture Richmond is paid $405,900 annually in public funds for the canal cruise operations, Easter on Parade, Friday Cheers, and RVA fireworks.

“Isn’t it strange that there is so little accountability? Although Venture Richmond is generously paid by the city for the no-bid canal cruise operations, for years the ticket booth and dock in the upper Haxall on Brown’s Island has sat vacant. In addition to the no-bid grant, Venture Richmond keeps the $6 per person canal cruise ticket fees for the canal cruises in the lower Haxall. They receive their no-bid grant whether or not they put boats in the upper Haxall canal beside Brown's Island. This is a very good example of why the canal boat concession should be put up for bids,” Pool said.

It appears that this debate is far from over and solutions remains to be seen.

riverfront, and out bicycling infrastructure.

This agreement moves these projects forward.”

Highlights of the agreement include: · $2.05 million in new funding for additional capital needs for Richmond Public Schools. Added to the $5 million provided in the mayor’s original budget, this represents a one-year increase of nearly 700 percent in capital funding for schools. · $1.5 million for bicycle infrastructure · $100,000 for the Oliver Hill Courts Building · $250,000 for blighted properties

· These measures will be funded by a $3.9 million reduction in capital funding for the proposed E-911 Center, while retaining funding to plan the facility. · The agreement adds $3 million in funding for the Riverfront. This will be funded by the city’s anticipated FY14 revenue surplus. · The agreement reduces the $4.5 million in capital improvements that had been proposed for individual Council districts. · The agreement restores previous cuts to the Shockoe infrastructure, to a level of $10.6 million. This is a $3 million reduction from the mayor’s original proposal.

Civil liberties group concerned new lease for Monroe Park raises free speech questions The ACLU of Virginia has expressed concern that the 30-year lease between Richmond and the Monroe Park Conservancy (MPC) does not contain explicit protections for free speech in the park. The letter explains that even while it is leased to a private party, Monroe Park remains a “traditional public forum” - government property where the U.S. Supreme Court has said that free speech rights are most protected. “As public space becomes increasingly scarce, it is essential that we maintain public parks as forums for expression,” said Claire Guthrie Gastañaga, executive director of the ACLU of Virginia in a letter sent to Richmond City Attorney Allen Jackson with copies to the mayor and Richmond City Council members.

In the letter, the ACLU of Virginia writes that the lease leaves many questions unanswered about the public’s right to use the park for free speech purposes. These include whether individuals and small groups will be able to leaflet and collect petition signatures in the park without a permit, and whether MPC will be able to enter into extended subleases with entities that may exclude the public.

The letter asks Jackson to provide answers to those questions. The lease allows MPC to develop policies for the use of the park, but does not specify whether the policies must respect the free speech rights of the public. A separate agreement

Claire Guthrie Gastañaga

grants Richmond City Council veto power over the use policies.

“The city attorney and council must review the use policies carefully to ensure that they comply with the First Amendment,” said Gastañaga. “Policies that fail to protect the public’s free speech rights could expose both the city and MPC to liability.” “We will monitor the situation closely and will not hesitate to step in if we believe that First Amendment rights are violated,” said Gastañaga.

Council voted last month to approve the 30-year park leasefor $1 a year.

City officialshave said that Monroe Park will still function as a public place.

It is where many of the city’s homeless population spends hours each days.

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 3

The Richmond Voice

Hopewell hosts Community Day Virginia Attorney General Mark R. Herring and the Office of Attorney General co-hosted their 8th Community Day over the weekend in Hopewell. The annual event brings together residents, businesses, community organizations, and public safety partners to celebrate their community, beautify their neighborhood through service, and to honor community activism. In addition to information about public safety resources, the event included landscaping work throughout Mathis Field, games and stories for neighborhood children, and free health screenings from healthcare professionals at John Randolph Medical Center.

“It’s always a joy to meet Virginians in their communities, especially during such a positive community-building event,” said Herring. “As attorney general, I want to do what I can to promote safe, successful communities across the commonwealth.

That means combating the public safety threats we see today and preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.

“We’ll only be successful if everyone buys into the effort.”

The event featured more than a dozen vendors and public safety partners, who connected with community members and provided information on local resources to fight crime, promote healthy choices, and steer children away from danger.

After a morning spent planting garden beds, the day concluded with a community celebration for all volunteers and

You Can Still File Chapter 7&13 Bankruptcy Get rid of debts that you can’t pay “Get A Fresh Start” STOPS FORECLOSURES, REPOSSESSIONS GARNISHMENTS AND HARASSING PHONE CALLS

S

1

participants.

Among the several area agencies and organizations that partnered for the event include the city of Hopewell and its departments of police, parks and recreation, and redevelopment and housing.

Additional support was provided by the Virginia State Police, Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, Mike’s Lawn & Landscape, and the Cal Ripken, Sr. foundation.

“We are very proud to be working in partnership the Virginia Attorney General in hosting the first police-sponsored community day,” said Hopewell Police Chief John Keohane (above). “It is essential for us to continue building relationships and to work alongside the community towards our goal of a safer and secure Hopewell. Community Day will help us strengthen this partnership.”

BANKRUPTCY NIKKI WHITE

377-9431

Call Anytime 24-7

Hours: Weekdays Mondays thru Friday

Saturday and Evening Appointments Available

Offices in convenient locations

BANKRUPTCY

"7" Bankruptcy or "13" Debt Adjustment First fee payment

$100

Tell bill collectors to "Call My Lawyer" *Other legal services available*

Offices in Downtown Richmond Downtown Petersburg at 422 East Franklin Street at 119 North Sycamore St., Suite 301 (5th & Franklin Sts.) First Floor (off Washington St.)

804.218.3614 24-7 talk to an attorney for free.

Law Office of White & Associates P.C. 9101 Midlothian Turnpike, Suite 800 • Richmond, VA 23235

BANKRUPTCY

Hopewell Redevelopment and Housing Authority Executive Director Steve Benham said the agency was privileged to be a partner that helped bring about an event whose focus was uniting communities.

“Our agency is committed not only to providing affordable housing, but also to investing in community efforts such as this that bring about positive change for the citizens of Hopewell,” he said.

Attorney General Mark Herring (left) and Hopewell Mayor Michael Bujakowski help start improvements for the entrance of Mathis Field during Community Day.

One in four Virginians is missing money.

Don’t be a statistic.

Claim yours today.

Look for the Unclaimed Property List in today’s paper!

The Richmond Voice

4 • May 21 - 27, 2014

Marshall: ‘Pansy day’ for GOP not considering AG impeachment

By Kathryn Watson Outspoken Republican Del. Bob Marshall (right) has filed two resolutions to launch an impeachment inquiry into Attorney General Mark Herring, and he’s showing no mercy for Republicans who won’t join him.

“After three strikes, Herring is out,” Marshall said on the John Fredericks Radio show last week.

To Marshall, those three strikes include Herring’s legal battle against the state’s same-sex marriage ban, consideration of same-sex couples to file joint tax returns, and announcement that some illegal immigrant students will be eligible for instate tuition. Marshall’s basic claim is that Herring is overstepping the constitutional authority granted to him by law.

Michael Kelly, a spokesman for Herring, said Marshall’s push has no standing.

“A small handful of legislators seem to remain oblivious as to how the law works, the role of the attorney general,

and the publicly stated opinion of top legal scholars, including the author of Virginia’s modern Constitution, who said Attorney General Herring’s actions in the marriage equality case have been appropriate,” Kelly wrote. “It’s our hope that this political gambit doesn’t distract or take away momentum from reaching agreement on a state budget as soon as possible.”

Marshall, however, isn’t just going after

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Dentistry for Children and Patients with Special Needs

Question: How often does my child need to brush?

Answer: It is recommended that children brush at least two times a day for two minutes in the morning and at bedtime.

Randy Adams, D.D.S.

Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Board Certified Special Care Dentist

Brandon Allen, D.D.S. 300 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220

(804) 780-2888

www.richmonddentistryforchildren.com

Herring. He has no mercy for Republicans, like Speaker of the House Bill Howell, who won’t join his cause. Howell dismissed the resolutions Marshall filed minutes after they were introduced.

“He reminds me of Nancy Pelosi,” Marshall said, perhaps the lowest blow someone like the very conservative Marshall could offer to Howell. “He doesn’t read the rules either.”

Matthew Moran, communications director for the speaker, said this isn’t the right time or the right recourse to handle Herring’s actions, adding that Howell is “100 percent focused” on rejecting Medicaid expansion and passing a budget.

“The speaker has expressed his concerns

regarding the attorney general’s actions, but does not believe impeachment is an appropriate or practical recourse at the moment,” Moran said in a statement.

“Specifically to the question of Delegate Marshall being upset that the speaker has dismissed his idea, I would decline to comment,” Moran told Watchdog.org.

That isn’t sitting well with Marshall.

“Voters shouldn’t stay with Republicans too long if they’re not wiling to defend what they claim they believe,” Marshall said. “… They’re going to have so many more violations and predatory acts by Herring and (Gov. Terry) McAuliffe, this is going to be pansy day at the General Assembly,” said Marshall. © Watchdog.org Va.

Nonprofit organization helps residents meet financial needs

By Sylvina Poole A local nonprofit organization is sponsoring a fundraiser to lend a helping hand to residents who are struggling financially.

Vasilios Community Development Corporation’s nonprofit division called Jumpstart University will present the event on May 30.

Jumpstart notes that it focuses on serving the unmet needs of members in the city.

“Not only do we help individuals find affordable housing but we also create wraparound service programs that strengthen the individual’s financial future,” said Amber Berry who interns as Vasilos.

“Being that this organization is so new, we are hosting a fundraising gala in order to raise money and awareness in the Richmond area.”

Vasilios Community Development Corporation was organized in 2010 and

by CEO Carl S. Vaughan, EdD. He, with the assistance of an executive board, established VCDC as an innovative development company capable of implementing programs and strategies responsive to community and residential needs in Richmond and other locations.

VCDC’s mission is to provide a highquality training center that educates, motivates, and empowers all constituents to change their lives for the better and stimulate economic growth in an urban community. The areas of services include economic development, education, housing, and human services.

JumpStart University is one of the education services that VCDC offers and was created in 2012. The nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that meets the dire and prevelant needs of members in the community by assisting individuals and families with moving toward the benefits of home ownership through the programs that are offered. The classes offered teach life skills such as behavior modification, education, daily living, and independent living.

In order to raise money for these services to continue operating, we decided to have a fundraising gala. The name of the gala is “Essence of Empowerment” and will take place at the Virginia War Memorial on May 30. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

This event will include a silent auction, reception, sit down dinner, a presentation, speakers, and some form of entertainment.

The tickets for the event are $60.

“The attendees will also be offered the option to donate in other ways as well,” said Berry. “This program is very important because it offers people who think that they don’t have a chance at financial growth a place to come and better themselves as well as their families.

“We want to help ensure that everyone has a chance in the Richmond community and we want to aid them in this process by offering them a great learning environment and a memorable experience to go with it.

As of right now JSU is serving 75 clients but we hope that it grows even more after this event.”

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 5

The Richmond Voice

AMERicANHicoNs

Join Macy’s in our cross-country tribute to the great American way! To learn more – and see what’s happening at a Macy’s near you – visit macys.com/americanicons

Now thRough MoN, MAy 26

mEmorial day salE 3o%-75% off storEwidE plus, TAKE AN EXTRA 2O% OR 15% OFF†

WITH YOuR MACY’s CARD OR pAss †EXClusIONs ApplY; sEE pAss.

2-DAY spECIAls WED, MAY 21 & THuRs, MAY 22 IT All sTARTs WITH spECTACulAR

giVE BAcK. gEt BAcK.

Join macy’s & got Your 6 to raise money for america’s Veterans. give $3 & get 15%-20%‡ savings on a day you choose now through may 26. 100% of your $3 will be donated to Got Your 6 and its veteran-focused nonprofit partners. For more information, visit macys.com/gotyour6 ‡Exclusions and restrictions apply. See store for details.

WOW! pass

EXTRA SAVINGS ON ALL SALE & CLEARANCE APPAREL! (EXCEPT SPECIALS & SUPER BUYS)

EXTRA 2O% Off

selecT sale & clearance apparel for hiM, her & kids Extra 15% off all sale & clearance WaTches, fine & fashion jeWelry, coaTs, suiTs, dresses, iMpulse, inTiMaTes, sWiM for her; Men’s suiT separaTes & sporTcoaTs & selecT shoes & hoMe iTeMs Also excludes: Everyday Values (EDV), Doorbusters, Deals of the Day, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, rugs, electrics/electronics, cosmetics/fragrances, athletic shoes for him, her & kids, Dallas Cowboys merchandise, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, New Era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, special orders, selected licensed depts., special purchases, services. Exclusions may differ at macys.com. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account.

EXTRA SAVINGS % APPLIED TO REDUCED PRICES.

text “cpn” to 62297 to get coupons, sales alerts & more!

Max 3 msgs/wk. Msg & data rates may apply. By texting CPN from my mobile number, I agree to receive marketing text messages generated by an automated dialer from Macy’s to this number. I understand that consent is not required to make a purchase. Text STOP to 62297 to cancel. Text HELP to 62297 for help.

Terms & conditions at macys.com/mobilehelp Privacy policy at macys.com/privacypolicy

VAlid 5/21-5/26/2014

Free online shipping every day + extra 2o% or 15% oFF!

Free shipping with $99 purchase. use promo code: MEMDAY for extra savings; offer valid 5/21-5/26/2014. Exclusions apply; see macys.com for details. memorial day Sale priceS in effecT 5/21-5/26/2014, excepT aS noTed. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine.

The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible.

OP-ED & LETTERS

6 • May 21 - 27, 2014

For the general welfare A few years ago I had a chance to travel to Petaluma, California as a private citizen on personal business. Little did I know and hardly could I have imagined what might be going on there in the processing and preparation of the food that I and thousands of others would potentially make meals. At the time of my travel there, I, like countless Americans, ate meat.

Although I no longer eat meat, my stomach now churns at recent revelations of food contamination coming from a Petaluma processor. A CNN exclusive recently reported that a meat processing plant in California was buying diseased dairy cows and processing them when government inspectors weren’t there. CNN received this information from responsible federal government officials. After the cows were killed, employees at Rancho Feeding Corporation, based in Petaluma, would hide the warning signs of cancer by trimming off diseased parts, using a fake stamp of approval or even replacing the heads of sick cows with ones from healthy animals, according to the officials.

A principled employee at the plant risked retaliation and retribution by revealing these activities. This tip led to a federal investigation and the recall of nearly nine million pounds of meat processed

by Rancho Feeding Corporation. We’ll never know how many pounds of the diseased meat had already been eaten by unsuspecting consumers, but the thought of eating this offending meat still leaves me concerned for my health and safety, and that of other consumers.

I took what I consider to be the responsible course of action and stopped eating meat after reading about the horrible way animals are killed and the frequent questionable sanitary measures used to prepare meat for sale. Rancho

Feeding Corporation may be the current interest of government inspectors, but I’m sure this isn’t the only company that needs government oversight to keep them honest. This is an obvious circumstance of the necessity of government oversight to keep not only meat, but all of our food, uncontaminated.

Lately, we’ve heard the news of diseased bananas, diseased oranges and a myriad of other questionable commodities marketed as food. In our recent past, we've experienced poison grapes. We’ve also suffered under the threat of poison lettuce and poison chickens. It seems that every few weeks we hear about contaminated milk, diseased cows, toxins in the water we drink and in the air we breathe.

As inconvenient as some think government regulations may be, I shudder to think where we would be without them!

I want the government to inspect the food I eat and impose regulatory requirements on all those who offer products for public consumption.

Although many citizens are unaware of, ignore or refute the authority of the government, it has a constitutionally mandated responsibility to “provide for the general welfare.” Including, but not limited to military defense, no constitutional scholar that I know would interpret that phrase to mean anything except that the government has the responsibility to assure that citizens are protected from enemies - foreign and domestic - even those motivated by avarice and greed.

Let’s not forget why we have child labor laws, civil and voting rights laws, highway safety laws, fair housing laws, transportation laws, clean air and clean water laws, and the list goes on. The government has always had to intervene to work for solutions to keep our citizens See “ General

Jack J. Green, Publisher richmond.voice@verizon.net

HOW TO REACH US

205 E. Clay St. Richmond, VA 23219 (804)644-9060 (main) • (804)644-5617(fax)

welfareˮ on pg. 7

Editor/Assist. to the Publisher Marlene Jones editor@voicenewspaper.com Editor Algeree Simon aj@voicenewspaper.com Sales ads@voicenewspaper.com

Featured correspondent: Letter to Virginia Republicans Where is the condemnation?

As a member of the Republican Party of Virginia’s State Central Committee, l am learning that some Republicans resemble chameleons. The Republican Creed of Virginia is ignored. The carrot of power is sought as principle replaces pragmatism.

Honesty is not their best policy. Giving or raising money covers a multitude of sins. Is $15,000 enough penitence for Bolling’s return? “Can’t we all get along now?”

Criticizing a Republican’s unethical behavior is shunned, unless condemnation is directed at one more conservative than you. “Don’t criticize a Republican.” When the six point message of our creed is rejected to secure power, there will be no participation in kumbaya moments around Republican campfires; I cannot “just get along.”

Hundreds of “happy campers,” attending Virginia Beach’s Big Tent meeting for the first time were purged for power. Eric Cantor’s Young Guns destroyed years of coalition building. Where did Cantor’s “Fledgling Firearms” secure their “basic training” – Mitch McConnell, Karl Rove, Amelia Island?

A Freedom of Information Act request for Campbell County email addresses was used to tell employees that Republican extremists would eliminate their jobs if they did not participate in the Republican mass meeting. “Sign the loyalty oath; it doesn’t matter.”

Democrats helped eliminate convention delegates, including the candidate seeking chairmanship of the 5th District and a House of Delegates member. Parliamentarian for the evening’s festivities was Mike Thomas, Vice Chair of the State Central Committee, Mr. Slating 101, and one of Cantor’s Big Three.

Cantor disenfranchised voters, promoted divisiveness Virginia Congressional districts, and violated the principles that define Virginia’s GOP. Where is the condemnation from Republican Party leadership, State Central, US Congressmen, Virginia Senators or House of Delegates? Is winning at any cost ever acceptable? Have money and retribution silenced the statesmen and hindered the penman? Why are leaders blind, deaf, and mute to Cantors’ destruction of our Big Tent message?

See “ GOP letter” on pg. 7 Production Denise Smith Administrative Specialist Tina Riddick-Harris Distribution Hakeen Ross Scott McCormick Kamau Islam

www.voicenewspaper.com

To send letters to the editor

letters@voicenewspaper.com

YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION RATES (52 EDITIONS) STATE OF VIRGINIA $30

The Richmond Voice

ALL OTHER STATES $40 FOREIGN COUNTRIES $50

THE VOICE NEWSPAPER is copyrighted.

THE VOICE NEWSPAPER assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material.

Any use or reproduction, in part or whole, is forbidden without the expressed written permission of the publisher. ® 2012.

Opinions expressed by THE VOICE NEWSPAPER columnists and letter writers are their own and no endorsements of their views by THE VOICE NEWSPAPER should be inferred.

THE VOICE NEWSPAPER is audited by Verified Audit Circulation.

THE VOICE NEWSPAPER is a member of the National Newspapers Publishers Association(NNPA) and Virginia Press Association(VPA).

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 7

P.T. Hoffsteader, Esq.

The Richmond Voice

The struggle continues

Sixty years after the historic Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education, our public schools are still separate and still unequal.

The growing gap between rich and poor has relegated low-income working families to neighborhood schools without the resources to give children the education they deserve. Neither the business community nor our elected leaders have done enough to address the problem.

That’s why workers are organizing in numbers we have not seen in decades – joining together on the job to raise wages and to build the power that's necessary to reclaim their neighborhood schools provide the education all our children deserve.

We are standing on the shoulders of courageous parents, and students like 16 year old Barbara Rose Johns who organized and led a 450-student walkout at her high school in 1951 to stand up for equality and brought the struggle to the steps of the Supreme Court just three years later.

Now it’s up to all of us to honor this proud legacy by continuing to organize in the workplace and in our communities to reclaim our public neighborhood schools and to raise wages – the engine for a strong economy – so we can invest in excellent sustainable schools for all children regardless of zip code.

Mary Kay Henry President SEIU

Fire Shinseki

The culture at the VA that allowed career bureaucrats to decide that health care rationing was an acceptable alternative must be changed, and Shinseki has proven that he is wrong person for the job.

The death of at least 40 veterans waiting

to see a doctor in Phoenix, complete with a secret list of patients who were determined to be too ill to help, were denied care, and died, is a deplorable abomination and insult to every man and woman who has ever served. Secretary Shinseki should be fired immediately. The decent care of our nation's veterans is the least the federal government can do for those who sacrificed everything to defend their country.

Nathan Mehrens Washington, D.C.

On Petersburg High

The 2014 senior awards and recognition day was held on May 16. Each year I attend and amazed at the number of organizations and individuals participating. It’s not the amount of money presented by each, but the recognition of academic achievements.

While it’s no secret that [many] have called the Petersburg school division dysfunctional without providing nonpolitical workable practical solutions, poverty is definitely one factor and all of the African American boys in Petersburg are not in trouble. What stood out to me on May 16 was a mother and son graduates initiative - establishment of a $10,000 scholarship for seniors. It’s no surprise to most because [singer] Tremaine Neverson, A.K.A. Trey Songz frequently returns to his city and schools. So I ask all to magnify his “giving back” to his beloved community.

When young black males (celebrities) are doing important community things of this nature, we need to let the country and young black boys know that once you are lifted out of your situation that you owe something to the community you came from.

We of course must clearly separate the

Chris Browns from the Trey Songzs as role models.

Walt Hill Petersburg

Career politics

Eric Cantor is displaying textbook election year politics - the hallmark of a career politician. Where has Eric been on amnesty? He has repeatedly supported measures designed to legalize those who are here illegally. That is amnesty in the purest form.

We must elect representatives that stand upon principle and do not waiver for political convenience. Eric Cantor seemed content to allow our military to be used as a vehicle for granting amnesty to illegal immigrants until he saw my primary challenge and principled conservatives stand on Amnesty.

Conservative constituents in the District are overwhelmingly opposed to Amnesty but their voice was ignored. But for a primary challenge, Eric changes course.

Most readers have by now confirmed that Eric’s negative ads lie about my service to the commonwealth. Are conservatives now to believe that Eric has really changed his mind on amnesty? Eric is losing trust across the district and that trust matters.

We need leaders who will stand up for Virginia and for the country, no matter when the next election is. Amnesty will further weaken our labor markets, lower the wages of the working class, and take jobs away from those who have suffered over the past seven years.

It is true that we are a nation of immigrants, and legal immigrants from all over the world are welcome in America, but we are an exceptional nation in the first place precisely because we are a nation of laws.

David Brat

General welfare from page 6 healthy and safe from those who would sacrifice their well-being to “the god of profitability”.

Those who argue that they want government out of their lives never seem to mind when they benefit. We cannot allow ourselves to fall victim to those who would convince us that government is in unequivocal opposition to our interests.

GOP letter from page 6 Should we ignore the obvious because of Cantor’s position? No one is that important – no one. Cantor’s behavior mocks leadership. The Virginia Beach and Campbell County tomfooleries ridiculed principled leadership. Cantor is not principled. He needs no power.

My message as State Central Committee member to all Republicans, remove Eric Cantor from office. Eric Cantor has instigated dissent in Virginia. To every Republican leader in Virginia, condemn Cantor’s behavior. Places of prestige are not more important than positions of principle. Silence is complicity.

A Cantor defeat on June 10th sends a message that deplorable and divisive behavior, even by the House Republican Majority Leader, is unacceptable. Help make phone calls or knock doors on Saturdays in the 7th. Principled Republicans must win; Cantor’s Big Tent evictions lose. Anyone who believes otherwise ignores history or worships at the church of R. Success is fleeting when power and purse trump foundational principles.

Principles ultimately prevail over power when principled people remain principled.

Long term success is secured when Republicans reject Eric Cantor. The best time to start the appropriate and proper purging is June 10th.

Rev. Travis E. Witt Fifth District Representative

RELIGION

8 • May 21 - 27, 2014

The Richmond Voice

Richmond Masjid Bilal Imam Muhammad Shaaf Salaam From staff reports

Imam Muhammad Shaaf Salaam of

Imam of Masjid Bilal in Richmond, passed

away May 18. Details are sparse on a likely cause of death.

Those close to him have been echoing

the du’a (calling or supplication) of

his relatives: “O ALLAH, our brother,

Muhammad Salaam, comes to You leaving

can bear. Forgive his sins and admit him to Paradise. Ameen.”

Salaam was the resident Imam of Masjid

Bilal since December 2004.

Married to Myra Salaam for more than

28 years they have five children and three grand children, according to the Masjid Bilal website.

According to Salaam’s biography, he

behind his deeds, his family and his home.

accepted Islam in 1973 under the teachings

better family and a better home. Expand

the death of Elijah in 1975, he remained

Accept the best of his deeds, give him a

his grave for him and provide it with light.

Do not let his grave be a trial for him

beyond what he can bear, and do not let

his death be a trial for us beyond what we

changed his name in 1976 to Muhammad

hear and recommend solutions for disputes

order to build his character around it’s

also conducted services and counseled

Shaaf Salaam. He choose this name in meaning (One who praises Allah-God

much, One who intends to heal, and peace).

Salaam worked as a corrections officer.

He worked as a deputy sheriff for the

Richmond Sheriff’s department for 10 years.

In December 1990 he moved to

of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad. After

Hagerstown, MD. , where he worked as an

under the leadership of his son Imam W.D

Corrections. He became a certified trainer

Muhammad, who brought the community into the fold of Al-Islam.

Salaam was born Calvin Leon Tyler. He

Islamic chaplain for the Maryland Dept. of for trainers for the state of Maryland

and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s designated personnel to

Black ministers: Appeal to faith and unity

By E.W. Jackson God and Christianity, I have a vision of who want to mock Americans of every Christian holidays, background standing tear down every cross, together against the prohibit the very moral degradation mention of Jesus name and degeneration of and stamp out every our culture. It is the public mention of God. vision articulated in These true black our pledge of allegiance leaders refuse to stand Opinion “one nation under idly by as forces of God.” [Recently] I evil try to put the saw a glimpse of that church in a closet, vision coming to pass. I hosted a meeting while heralding out every vile behavior for with nearly 50 key black ministers in the public display and approval. They refuse to Richmond area. I found these men and remain silent while government, education, women to be leaders of faith and purpose, entertainment, and every other cultural not committed to a political party, but to influence is sanitized of Christianity and the principles set forth in the Word of God. the God of the Bible. They refuse to sit They realize as do many of us, that the on the sidelines while good Christian problems we face in America today are not people are persecuted for believing that a fight between left and right, Republican marriage is a union between one man and Democrat, but a spiritual battle and one woman. They are fighting for between good and evil. They agree that it the family, which has been decimated is time for ministers of the gospel - black, among Americans of African decent, as white, Hispanic and every other ethnicity well as in the population at large. They - to stand together for life, family and the are fighting for educational choice and freedom of every individual to reach his opportunity for children trapped in failing or her God given potential. They refuse to inner city schools. They know that same buy into a victim mindset, and want to see sex marriage and abortion are not answers the black community and all Americans to social injustice, but perpetuators of experience the opportunity and prosperity it. They want to eliminate poverty in the this nation has to offer. black community not exploit it. They Sadly our culture is increasingly want true racial justice, but not to use dominated by those who are hostile toward race to justify things that they know are

detrimental and create controversies where there are none. Dr. [Martin Luther] King, Jr. — a black minister — led us out of Jim Crow era, and black ministers have an essential role in leading us into the era of racial reconciliation and liberty, justice and prosperity for all.

America needs another Great Awakening!

Our prayer is to create a coalition of black, white, and Hispanic ministers together who will work to awaken and ignite Christians in our country to take a STAND, for freedom, life, marriage and to empower parents to make educational choices for their children.

Liberals have been very effective at creating barriers of racial distrust, even among Christians who believe essentially the same things. It is time to tear those walls down. The left has created the myth that only they care, and they are the rescuers and champions of poor and minority people. At the same time, they are attacking every Christian value that both black and Hispanic communities hold dear.

Through a consistently demonstrated interest and action to address the real issues affecting minority communities, we will dispel the myths and build walls of trust. STAND is nonprofit nonpartisan organization. Nevertheless, the presumption that Americans of African descent will always vote for liberal Democrats is starting to crumble. I can assure you that none of these ministers

between Wardens, staff, and inmates. He inmates on a daily basis. In 1999 to he

began to work as a counselor/correctional officer for the Virginia Department of

Juvenile Justice, where he was employed for 10 years.

Masjid Bilal, 400 Chimborazo Blvd., is a

non-profit organization that promotes the “social and religious advancement of all

people by promoting the religious tenants of Al-Islam establishing the Holy Qur’an as the source of guidance for humanity

and the life of prophet Muhammad as the perfect example of Human conduct.”

will ever again vote for [Virginia Attorney General] Mark Herring, nor will their congregations.

They believe he betrayed them by espousing his “Catholic Church” background during the campaign, and then making same-sex “marriage” the first big issue he attacked once elected.

They feel insulted that he said those who oppose it are on the wrong side of history and the equivalent of Jim Crow racists. Can you imagine how insulting that is to black ministers and the people they represent?

The numbers of black voters who are fed up is growing, and I want to keep helping them to see the truth of how they are being exploited and disrespected. The present voting patterns of black citizens did not develop overnight and neither will the shift to a new paradigm, but it is happening. We can help it accelerate. This meeting was just the first of many I intend to host.

But in order to do more, I need your help! There are many great conservative organizations out there who are doing a good job of reaching pastors, but we are unique in our mission to reach black and Hispanic ministers and bring them together with their evangelical counterparts in the fight to bring this nation back to its Godly foundations.

E.W. Jackson, the 2013 Republican nominee for Virginia lieutenant governor, is president and founder of STAND. He has partnered with the Family Research Council as a senior fellow and with the Frederick Douglass Foundation.

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 9

The Richmond Voice

Practice love

Keeping the Faith

There are some people who, quite frankly, are impossible to love. You can’t dig deep enough, can’t try hard enough, can’t believe enough, and can’t go far enough to make it happen. And I’m not talking about the likes of Adolf Hitler and Charles Manson, either. If only a few such sinister creatures existed, then the world could sing together one great chorus of “Kum Ba Ya,” and move on to the Promised Land.

By Ronnie McBrayer No, the unlovable are everywhere, and they are fairly normal people, not sinister monsters who challenge our capacity to love. Bosses, coworkers, in-laws; your rival on the field, in the boardroom, or in the marketplace; your ex-spouse. The guy who cut you off in traffic. The obnoxious mother at your kid’s Little League game. There are some real jerks in the world, and they aren’t too interested in becoming kinder, gentler, more loving people.

The irony in all of this lack of love is that your personal ability to love others has nothing to do with them. And it has nothing to do with you. See, you can’t make yourself love other people, and you can’t make them more loveable.

Real love, if it is love, comes from God. So, if the unlovable people we encounter are going to be objects of any level of affection – and I’m not talking about hot, fiery emotion but genuine, gracious concern – then love is something that God must do through us, to us, and for us – and for others. It’s not something we can produce on our own.

Instead, we must get to know God better; be more receptive to the Divine; become more trusting of who God is and what God can do, and less confident in our own limited abilities. The more this relationship deepens, the more of God’s love we experience; and the more of God’s love we experience, then the more loving we become.

So if we start with the source of love, rather than starting at a hoped for outcome and work backwards, we get what we really need, and we are empowered to become people who are patient, kind, and unselfish. We become

the kind of people who, as the ancient Church Father Clement of Alexandria put it, “practice being God,” for “God is love” (as the Apostle John put it), and those who know God best love the deepest.

But doesn’t that seem counterintuitive to much of what we witness in the world of faith? Those who know God best love the deepest? This would appear not to be the case. To hear the tale told, those who know God best are those who are the most doctrinally entrenched, the most committed to their particular dogma, denominationalism, or neo-puritanism.

Those who claim to know God the best are often the most inflexible, stubborn, and most difficult with which to work.

Those who are the most “spiritual” can simultaneously be the most ungracious and unloving. Yet, this is a horrible oxymoron, inconsistent with a genuine relationship with God. I interact with people all the time who think the solution to Christianity’s contemporary troubles is “more.” We need “more doctrinal statements; more declarations of what we believe, more clarification of right and wrong, more lines to determine who is in and who is out.” I would agree that the answer is “more,” for sure. But it is more God, resulting in more love, and that will make the difference.

The objections to such conclusions I hear all the time as well: “If we only focus on love, we’ll wander into all manner of error and heresy,” some will say. Maybe. But we cannot ignore the fact that the greatest act of sacrilege has nothing to do with doctrine. The greatest act of sacrilege is the failure to love one another.

We might have all of our doctrinal “T’s” crossed and our authoritative “I’s” dotted, but if we aren’t allowing the love of God to flow through us to others, then we have a lot of practice still to do.

Ronnie McBrayer is a syndicated columnist, speaker, and author. Visit his website at www.ronniemcbrayer.me.

Here is a reason why you should

*adopt.

*Help reduce the number of children in the VA foster care system.

Claim our own - Adopt an African American Child

Virginia One Church, One Child 1214 West Graham Road, Suite 2 Richmond, Virginia 23220 (804) 329-3420

10 • May 21 - 27, 2014

EDUCATION

The Richmond Voice

Seventeen of the African-American students who were ordered admitted to white schools in Norfolk, pose for a photo at a church where they had been getting private schooling, 1959. Upper row: Andrew Heidelberg, Louis Cousins, Patricia Godbolt, Carol Wellington, Reginald Young, Freddy Gonsouland, Edward Jordan, Olivia Driver; lower row: Betty Jean Reed, Johnnie Rouse, Delores Johnson, LaVera Forbes, James Turner Jr., Lolita Portis, Patricia Turner, Claudia Wellington, Geraldine Talley. PHOTO: Ed Clark—The LIFE Picture Collection

60 years after Brown ruling

Sixty years ago this month, the United States Supreme Court handed down the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision that declared “separate educational facilities are inherently unequal,” setting the stage for the desegregation of all of America’s public schools. But integration didn’t happen overnight. In fact, in many places around the country, it took years.

The most often cited and arguably the most memorable integration battle took place in 1957, in Arkansas, when the Little

Rock Nine entered high school — after President Dwight Eisenhower federalized the Arkansas National Guard and, incredibly, sent in troops from the storied 101st Airborne to ensure the teens’ safety.

But the drama and tension so evident in Little Rock also played out — albeit with less firepower on hand – in schools around the country for years after Brown v. Board of Education.

Here, on the 60th anniversary of the decision that forever reshaped the country’s educational landscape, the country remembers one of those postLittle Rock battles: The integration of high schools in Virginia five long years after the Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling.

In February 1959, the state’s governor, J. Lindsay Almond, reluctantly abandoned

his carefully choreographed “massive resistance” to integration — including the closing of schools and keeping thousands of kids out of class in an attempt to forestall desegregation. Shortly thereafter, 21 African-American students began attending classes in Norfolk and Arlington.

LIFE photographers Paul Schutzer and Ed Clark were there, in Norfolk, when 17 of those students made history.

LIFE’s coverage of the integration of the Norfolk schools painted a relatively rosy picture of what the magazine called the “calm and hopeful integration start” in Virginia.

“The peaceful transition,” LIFE wrote in its Feb. 16, 1959, issue, “went a long way to restore the climate of inevitability of integration in the South, which had

been badly disturbed a year and half ago by violence and diehard defiance in Little Rock.” (That same issue of LIFE, unfortunately, also repeatedly misidentified one of the Norfolk students, 15-year-old Louis Cousins, as “Lewis” Cousins.)

Despite LIFE’s optimistic characterization of the “peaceful transition,” it’s worth noting that many of the students later recalled their experiences as hurtful, isolating and confusing, even if they kept up a brave front for the cameras — and, perhaps more importantly, for their white peers.

Six decades later, their courage still astounds.

- Ben Cosgrove/LIFE

The Richmond Voice

Hampton History Museum leads effort to excavate contraband camp site 19th-century contraband community revealed through excavation, museum exhibit Heavy equipment recently began moving turf and top soil from a twoacre site located between Pembroke and Lincoln streets, where Armistead Avenue and Lincoln Street intersect, in downtown Hampton.

Known to be the site of the Grand Contraband Camp during the Civil War following Union Major General Benjamin Butler’s May 24, 1861 assertion that men treated as slaves by the Confederate army were to be considered contraband of war, the site has been consistently occupied since the 19th century, and served most recently as the site of the Harbor Square apartment community.

James River Institute of Archaeology, led by renowned local archaeologist Nick Lucketti, prepared the site and commence excavating by hand on this week, in an effort to uncover artifacts for the Hampton History Museum.

Hand excavation takes place May 22-June 13.

Docent-led tours of the dig site will be provided by Hampton History Museum beginning June 12, an estimated three weeks after the beginning of the dig, on Thursdays and Fridays through the end of June. Tours will depart the history museum at 2:30, and will include museum exhibit “Toward Freedom: Hampton and the Contraband” and St. John’s Church Cemetery.

“Toward Freedom: Hampton and the Contraband,” tells the story of the men, women, and children who escaped slavery to seek the possibility of freedom at Fort Monroe as “Contraband of War.” The exhibit uses artifacts, documents, photos, recreated settings, and audio-visual presentations, to explore critical questions surrounding slavery and the individuals who changed the world by their actions just one month into the American Civil War. “ According to a museum release, the dig serves as an “excellent complement” to the Hampton History Museum-produced Contraband exhibit located on the museum’s second floor. The exhibit continues through June, 29.

“While the public is not able to participate in excavation of the site, the museum will use the dig as an opportunity to educate about the Contraband community and the importance of the archaeology process, and the public is encouraged to track the dig’s progress,” according to the museum release.

The site has been inhabited continuously since Grand Contraband was established. If a significant amount of items is found, the history museum will consider a second excavation phase. An adult archaeology club is being established by the museum, based on numerous requests following the success of the museum’s Junior Archaeology Club. Both clubs will have an opportunity to engage in the excavation.

“It will be challenging. The time period of artifacts found won't necessarily be clear when they are unearthed,” said Luci Cochran, director of the Hampton History Museum. “The site is a living laboratory.

“The fact that Hampton is looking is important. We’re just not certain what the outcome will be.”

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 11 NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF AN APPLICATION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY FOR APPROVAL OF A RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE PURSUANT TO § 56-585.1 A 4 OF THE CODE OF VIRGINIA CASE NO. PUE-2014-00021 On May 2, 2014, Virginia Electric and Power Company (“Dominion Virginia Power” or “Company”), pursuant to § 56-585.1 A 4 (“Subsection A 4”) of the Code of Virginia (“Code”), submitted an application (“Application”) with the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) for approval of a rate adjustment clause (“RAC”) designated as Rider T1.

Subsection A 4 allows an investor-owned electric utility to recover, with Commission approval, certain costs through a RAC. Subsection A 4 deems to be prudent the “costs for transmission services provided to the utility by the regional transmission entity of which the utility is a member” and “costs charged to the utility that are associated with demand response programs approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [(“FERC”)] and administered by the regional transmission entity of which the utility is a member.”

The Company became a member of PJM Interconnection, L.L.C. (“PJM”), a regional transmission entity that has been approved by FERC as a regional transmission organization, effective May 1, 2005. Dominion Virginia Power, as an integrated electric utility member of PJM, obtains transmission service from PJM and pays PJM charges for such service at the rates contained in PJM’s Open Access Transmission Tariff approved by FERC. The Company states that it also pays PJM charges for costs associated with demand response programs approved by FERC and administered by PJM. In this proceeding, Dominion Virginia Power seeks approval of a revenue requirement for the rate year September 1, 2014, through August 31, 2015 (“Rate Year”). This revenue requirement, if approved, would be recovered through a combination of base rates and a revised increment/decrement Rider T1. Rider T1 is designed to recover the increment/decrement between the revenues produced from the transmission component of base rates and the new revenue requirement developed from the Company’s total transmission costs for the Rate Year.

Specifically, the total revenue requirement that the Company proposes to recover over the Rate Year is $538,019,256. This represents an increase of $131,695,526 over the revenues projected to be produced during the Rate Year by the combination of the transmission component of base rates and the Rider T1 rates currently in effect. The implementation of the proposed Rider T1 on September 1, 2014, would increase the monthly bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month by $1.91. The Company does not propose any changes from the cost allocation and rate design methodologies previously approved for Subsection A 4 RACs. The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing that, among other things, scheduled a public hearing on July 1, 2014, at 10 a.m., in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, to receive testimony from members of the public and evidence related to the Application from the Company, any respondents, and the Commission’s Staff. Any person desiring to testify as a public witness at this hearing should appear in the Commission’s courtroom 15 minutes prior to the starting time of the hearing and contact the Commission’s Bailiff. Individuals with disabilities who require an accommodation to participate in the hearing should contact the Commission at least seven days before the scheduled hearing at 1-800-552-7945 (voice) or 1-804-371-9206 (TDD).

The Company’s Application and the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing are available for public inspection during regular business hours at each of the Company’s business offices in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Copies also may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company, Lisa S. Booth, Esquire, Dominion Resources Services, Inc., 120 Tredegar Street, RS-2, Richmond, Virginia 23219. If acceptable to the requesting party, the Company may provide the documents by electronic means.

Copies of the public version of all documents filed in this case also are available for interested persons to review in the Commission’s Document Control Center, located on the first floor of the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, between the hours of 8:15 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Interested persons also may download unofficial copies from the Commission’s website: http://www.scc.virginia.gov/case.

Any person or entity may participate as a respondent in this proceeding by filing a notice of participation on or before June 11, 2014. If not filed electronically, an original and fifteen (15) copies of the notice of participation shall be submitted to Joel H. Peck, Clerk, State Corporation Commission, c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. A copy of the notice of participation as a respondent also must be sent to counsel for the Company at the address set forth above. Pursuant to Rule 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure (“Rules of Practice”), any notice of participation shall set forth (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the specific action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUE-2014-00021.

For additional information about participation as a respondent, any person or entity should obtain a copy of the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing.

On or before June 18, 2014, each respondent may file with the Clerk of the Commission and serve on the Commission’s Staff, the Company, and all other respondents, any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case. If not filed electronically, an original and fifteen (15) copies of such testimony and exhibits shall be submitted to the Clerk of the Commission at the address set forth above. Respondents also shall comply with the Commission’s Rules of Practice, including 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service; 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format; and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits. Respondents shall refer in all of their filed papers to Case No. PUE-2014-00021.

On or before June 24, 2014, any interested person wishing to comment on the Company’s Application may file written comments on the Application with the Clerk of the Commission at the address set forth above. Any interested person desiring to file comments electronically may do so on or before June 24, 2014, by following the instructions on the Commission’s website: http://www.scc.virginia.gov/case. Compact discs or any other form of electronic storage medium may not be filed with the comments. All such comments shall refer to Case No. PUE-2014-00021.

The Commission’s Rules of Practice may be viewed at http://www.scc.virginia.gov/case. A printed copy of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and an official copy of the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding may be obtained from the Clerk of the Commission at the address set forth above.

VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY d/b/a DOMINION VIRGINIA POWER

LIFESTYLES

12 • May 21 - 27, 2014

The Richmond Voice

Black women, big bucks and violence on television

By Starla Muhammad NNPA — The manipulation and one dimensional portrayal of black women on television was once again thrust front and center into the spotlight after an oncamera blow-up by two cast members of the popular “Real Housewives of Atlanta” series.

The profanity-laced, finger-pointing, hair-pulling, melee which aired April 20, resulted in battery charges, an arrest warrant, endless replays and debates on morning news shows and social media on whether Kenya Moore or Porsha Miller were most at fault during part one of the season six “reunion” show.

Meanwhile, Bravo, the cable channel owned by NBC Universal which produces and airs the show, is gearing up in the aftermath to air parts two and three. Part one attracted over four million viewers, making it the highest rated of any of the reunion shows, according to reports.

According to the Nielsen Company for cable network shows, the episode ranked No. 1 among black households and No. 3 among all U.S. households.

There is fortune and fame gained at the expense of denigrating the images of black women, analysts argued. What is blatantly missing from television is a broader representation of the diversity, complexity and stories they bring to the table. Regardless to the riches, elite social status or success reached by some of the black women represented on reality TV, too often they are still portrayed as violent, materialistic or unstable.

“These shows are about the denigration of black women. It pulls up every stereotype, every historical stereotype that

we have. We’ve got Sapphire, we’ve got the neck-rolling sister; it’s every negative stereotype and it is repugnant,” said Julianne Malveaux, economist, author and president emerita of Bennett College for Women.

The caricature “Sapphire” was popularized from the 1920s through 1960s on the Amos ‘n’ Andy radio and television shows explained sociology professor David Pilgrim. On the show, Sapphire Stevens regularly berated Kingfish, her goodfor-little husband, he said. The show was popular, and Sapphire became a synonym for aggressive, mean black women.

Pilgrim established the Jim Crow Museum which is a collection of over 4,000 racist memorabilia and artifacts at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Mich.

“The legacy of Sapphire Stevens lives today on television shows that portray African-American women as cussing, head-shaking, finger-wagging angry women who belittle black men — who are portrayed as lazy, ignorant or otherwise morally flawed,” Pilgrim said.

Evette Dionne, a writer and editor who covers a variety of issues including, race, culture and entertainment, said many of the reality shows are capitalizing and profiting off the pain and hurt of black women.

“Instead of giving them therapy or a way to work through their issues, they put them in these situations where unhealed hurt comes to the surface and next thing you know, it’s throwing bottles and hitting each other upside the head and cursing each other out because they have unresolved issues that nobody has attempted to work through. I blame networks for that,” she said.

The “Real Housewives of Atlanta” cast just before a well televised fight.

Dionne is bothered by the lack of the diversity of images of black women on television.

According to Nielsen, Scandal, which airs on ABC starring Kerry Washington, is the top-rated show in black households.

The show has been lauded for its talented star, who became the first black female lead in a network drama in 40 years when the show debuted in 2012. Despite that feat, critics point out the show’s character is involved in an extramarital affair and is in a sexual relationship with two white men.

The character rejected an offer of marriage from another character, a black man.

The challenge when it comes to black women and reality TV is many people say it is “just entertainment,” Malveaux said. “Well, if you had one sister doing something decent for everybody who’s

+D\ZRRG¶V +DLU ,PDJHV ,V VHHNLQJ H[SHULHQFHG FRVPHWRORJLVW

&RQWDFW +D\ZRRG DW : *UDFH 6WUHHW

)UHVK 1HZ 6W\OHV DQG +LJKHVW 4XDOLW\ LQ &XWLFOH +DLU

clowning, that might be OK. You see white women clowning and you see white women in major important roles or at least in sitcoms that do not demean them. If you counted up the number of AfricanAmerican women with prime time roles on television, disproportionately they would be these sisters who are carrying on like they’re in junior high school.”

The one-dimensional portrayal of black women exemplified on many of these reality shows is a formula that works and people will tune in, Dionne added. These types of shows are often cheap to make.

“These shows, sometimes their budget is $50,000, $60,000. They don’t have to pay these women a lot of money like you would have to pay an actress. It’s profitable for them,” Dionne said. There is less monetary risk than there is with a network show.

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 13

The Richmond Voice

Class-A-Roll hits the road to teach underserved families cooking skills

It’s called Class-A-Roll and soon it will be a regular fixture in Richmond’s Church Hill, East End and various other Richmond neighborhoods. Bon Secours Virginia leadership, joined

by First Lady of Virginia Dorothy McAuliffe, Richmond Councilwoman Cynthia Newbille and some 70 elementary school children, last week unveiled the mobile learning kitchen, a fully equipped, state-ofthe-art mobile commercial kitchen commissioned First Lady Dorothy McAulliffe and a student from St. Andrew’s

by Bon Secours to teach School tour the Class-A-Roll kitchen. SUBMITTED PHOTO children and adults in underserved communities about healthy nutrition and how to prepare healthy foods.

More than 60 percent of adults in Virginia and 17 percent of youth are considered overweight or obese. Bon Secours is targeting East End residents with limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables and has set a goal of influencing a 10 percent increase in fruit and vegetable consumption by improving access to neighborhood food markets. Bon Secours also expects outreach with Class-A-Roll to influence a drop in obesity rates in central and eastern Virginia.

“For years, Bon Secours has been dedicated to improving the health and economic vitality of Richmond’s Church Hill and East End neighborhoods by providing improved access to health care services and programs,” said Sister Anne Marie Mack, C.B.S., senior vice president for sponsorship, Bon Secours Richmond Health System. “This latest program is dedicated to children and families throughout Richmond with the goal of empowering them to make smart and healthful decisions around food and nutrition.”

Class-A-Roll is specially designed for hands-on cooking classes and demonstrations.

Its two large roll-up demonstration windows and a slide-out butcher block demonstration counter make it easier to work with both large and small groups of children and parents.

The 20-foot-long mobile teaching kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, a commercial-grade convection oven and a spacious interior for cooks and students.

Primarily, Class-A-Roll will target parents between the ages of 18 and 35, as well as children aged 12 and under. Studies have shown that residents of underserved areas struggle with a lack of convenient access to fresh food and grocery store options. ClassA-Roll will assist parents and children with the skills and knowledge to make healthy choices with regards to the food they purchase and how they prepare it. Bon Secours also will enhance its current partnerships with organizations in the community to provide greater access to fresh foods and fruits and vegetables in Church Hill and the East End, and in conjunction with Class-A-Roll programs.

“Our partners have been instrumental in the development of Class-A-Roll,” said David Belde, senior vice president of Mission Services at Bon Secours Richmond. “To make meaningful impact in any community, organizations with similar missions and goals must come together. We have partnered with Edible Education, Shalom Farms and Tricycle Gardens, to name a few, who also have targeted underserved areas of Richmond, aiming to make fresh food and vegetables more accessible and to help parents and children understand the importance of healthy diets and nutrition.”

Class-A-Roll will visit local schools, housing communities, churches, community centers, health centers including the YMCA, health and fitness events, Bon Secours events, businesses and other destinations. Volunteer nutritionists, culinary students and other health partners will help staff Class-A-Roll to give health and nutrition tips and cooking classes and demonstrations for participants.

Ask k Alma

Our girlfriend doesn’t get it

❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖ ❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖

Dear Alma

Within my group of friends, I have a female friend who likes a male friend who is also within the group. The female recently joined the group, but the male has been around some time.

The female has tried her best game and, to much dismay, has not won over the male friend. The male friend, however, has given every cold shoulder possible.

She, unfortunately, is slow to catch on.

Others have tried to politely intervene, but the female keeps knocking. It has progressed to the point that the male friend has stopped coming around, and no one in the group is happy.

The group now feels the need to address the issue, almost like an intervention. What do you suggest?

Leah Hi Leah, There are two ways to handle this situation: Your way (the easy way) or my way (the harder way).

We both know that this woman has been reading too many Cosmopolitan and Essence articles describing the perfect relationship. You know the ones – “How to Make Him Love You in 30 Days.” (I wonder why we never see such articles in a men’s magazine. I remember back in the day when I would read and scan the information into my memory, hanging on to every word. Thank goodness I’m all grown up now and I know better.

Here’s what I suggest: Somebody pick up a copy of the book by Greg Behrendt and Liz Tucillo, “He’s Just Not That Into You”. It’s based on an episode of the HBO television show “Sex and the City.” It gives straight up, no-nonsense descriptions of when a man just really doesn’t like you.

Some women can be extremely smart about everything in life except man.

Some lose all sense of rational thoughts and acceptable behavior. We come up with the best of the best excuses for dealing with a dead-end and or non-

existent relationship. I know you know what I’m sayin’. This book offers the best guidance one can receive.

Wrap that book in a pretty gift bag with beautiful tissue paper. I mean, go all out.

Not in front of everybody, but at the end of the evening, walk her to her car and give it to her. This should take place just between the two of you... that would be nice.

Or, you can go “Nene” on her and say loud and strong, “Girl, stop bothering him. He doesn’t like you like that, and you’re embarrassing yourself. Leave him alone and act like you got some class!”

Case closed, it’s over.

Whew! I get carried away sometimes.

Allow me to swerve back over to the path of politeness.

Have a one-on-one with your girl and share the following: One of the better qualities about men is that they aren’t that complicated, and we love them for that. Almost always there are no mixed messages, no need to read between the lines. It is what it is, and he’ll tell you if you listen.

Stop, rewind, push play and let me say that again: All you have to do is listen.

So ladies, stop rearranging his words in your mind to mean what you want him to say. If you push up on him and there’s no response, he’s just not into you. Remind her it’s not the end of the world. It’s just a pebble on her path of life. She needs to touch up her lip gloss and keep it moving. ***** Want advice? E-mail questions to alwaysaskalma@yahoo.com. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and twitter @almaaskalma *****

14 • May 21 - 27, 2014

HEALTH NOTES

The Richmond Voice

Insufficient Vitamin D linked to prostrate cancer rates

By Jazelle Hunt WASHINGTON (NNPA) — The relationship between melanin and vitamin D—the nutrient that sunlight provides— may explain why African American, Caribbean, and men of African ancestry have the highest rates of prostate cancer than anyone in the world, according to a new study.

The study by a team of researchers at Northwestern University, which appears in this month’s issue of Clinical Cancer Research, finds that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased risk of diagnosis among black men—but not among white men.

“Our report is the first to describe the association of vitamin D deficiency and outcomes of prostate biopsies in highrisk men with an abnormal [blood test or clinical exam],” according to the study. “If vitamin D is involved in prostate cancer

May 18-24 is EMS Week in Va. During your most desperate hour of need, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel are one of the first responders to arrive on the scene. According to the Virginia Department of Health, providers are dedicated to delivering quality care from the time a call is received at the 911 center until the patient’s arrival at the hospital. Last year, EMS providers responded to nearly 1.3 million calls for help in Virginia, approximately 3,521 incidents per day.

As proclaimed by Gov. Terry McAuliffe, May 18 – 24, is EMS Week in Virginia.

It honors EMS responders’ commitment to providing lifesaving services. EMS for Children Day, May 21, focuses on raising awareness of pediatric patients through specialized training.

“It’s important to recognize and thank the nearly 35,000 EMS providers in more than 650 EMS agencies across the Commonwealth, who provide quality emergency medical care to those in need,” said State Health Commissioner Marissa J. Levine, MD, MPH, FAAFP. “We appreciate their commitment to promoting and protecting the health of all Virginians.

Their dedication to people in Virginia is commendable.”

initiation or progression, it would provide a modifiable risk factor for primary prevention and secondary prevention to limit progression, especially in the highest risk group of African American men.”

Among American men, prostate cancer is the most common cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths.

One in seven American men will develop it in their lifetime. However, black men are 60 percent more likely than whites to be affected, according to the American Cancer Society. Although the mortality rate is among the lowest of all cancers, it is more than twice as high for black men than white men. The incidence of prostate cancer is low among Latino and Asian men.

It’s especially a concern for men over 50, as the risk of onset rises steadily over time; cancer (in general) is the number one cause of death for black men age 65 to 84 in the

Gary Brown, Virginia Office of EMS director, said it takes a special person to become a certified EMS provider.

“It takes someone who is dedicated to serving the community and rendering superior prehospital care 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Brown.

“While this job can be trying and at times thankless, we want to commend our EMS providers for their tireless efforts. We appreciate the countless hours devoted to continuing education, training and patient care. We invite you to join us in thanking our local EMS providers during this special week.”

EMS agencies across the state are hoting community-centered activities including first aid classes, health and safety fairs, open houses, fundraising dinners and more. These family-friendly events provide and opportunity to get to know the first responders in their neighborhoods.

To honor Virginia’s fallen fire and EMS personnel, Fire and EMS Memorial Week will take place June 8 – 14. This event, in conjunction with the Virginia Department of Fire Programs Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service, honors fire and EMS providers who died in the line of duty and recognizes those who risk their lives daily to serve and protect the people.

The Annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service will be held June 7 at 12 p.m. at the Richmond International Raceway.

Vitamin D is an important compound the body needs to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the body. It is best known for its role in using calcium to help build bones and keep them strong. Vitamin D affects many other tissues in the body, including the kidneys, intestines, and parathyroid glands.

Vitamin D is found in salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, as well as in cod liver oil and other fish liver oils. Beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks contain small amounts.

Most of the milk supply in the United States has vitamin D added to it, as do some breakfast cereals, orange juices, and milk substitutes (such as soy milk). Experts note that vitamin D acts more like a hormone than a vitamin, in part because the body can make its own vitamin D if the skin gets enough ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight.

The body stores several forms of vitamin D. Vitamin D3 is the form that is made in the skin. Vitamin D2 (calciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol) can be absorbed from food. The liver changes D2 and D3 into calcidiol, also called 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25 hydroxycholecalciferol). Then, the kidneys change calcidiol into calcitriol, also called 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D. This form can last for several weeks in the blood and is what doctors generally look at when checking a person’s vitamin D levels.

This is the active form of vitamin D, which helps the intestine absorb more calcium and phosphorus and which promotes bone mineralization.

SOURCE: Cancer.org

United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The study tested the vitamin D levels of nearly 700 men in the Chicago area undergoing their first prostate biopsies, which is the usual recommendation after an abnormal test result or clinical exam.

Researchers found that while severely low vitamin D levels were associated with more aggressive tumors, across race, African American men with even moderately low vitamin D levels had higher odds of being diagnosed after that initial biopsy.

There was no similar link among the white men studied.

Vitamin D primarily allows the body to absorb calcium, but it also plays a role in regulating cell growth and creation.

Although the nutrient can be found in

a handful of foods—most significantly in fatty seafood, such as wild-caught salmon—the body primarily creates its own vitamin D by absorbing sunlight.

Melanin, which naturally blocks the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, alters this process.

“The darker the color of the skin, the less effective sunlight is in producing vitamin D in skin,” said Dr. Donald Trump, president and CEO of the Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the first cancer center in the nation. (Trump was not involved in this particular study). “An African American person is more likely to have lower levels of vitamin D than a European person, because the same amount of sun exposure doesn’t generate the same amount See “Vitamin

D” on pg. 14

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 15

The Richmond Voice

Richmond city officials offer update on RDSS functioning

By Sylvina Poole A year ago, the Richmond Department of Social Services’ Child Protective Unit was being criticized for its alleged ineffectiveness in operations.

At the onset, the agency charged with protecting Richmond’s most vulnerable residents had fallen short on its duties and immediate action had to be taken, according to city officials.

Mayor Dwight C. Jones had named his chief policy advisor, David Hicks as interim directorof the city’s troubled social services child protective services unit.

This announcement came on the heels of increasing concerns over the department’s operations as well as the startling findings from audit reports which found the need for intervention for the RDSS. “With David Hicks at the helm, it places

us in constant contact and conversation about how things are going with the agency, said a spokesperson in the mayor’s office.

“There is still a lot of work to be done with that agency, and we are confident that David is bringing the leadership and direction needed to move DSS in the direction we want. Right now, it is definitely still a work in progress, but we are confident that agency operations are improving and strengthening every day, said Tammy Hawley, press secretary to the mayor.

While some strengths of the department were recognized, deficiencies and weaknesses were also cited.

Jones, who called for an immediate investigation of the department last year once he learned that children were being left in some unsafe home environments,

gave an update on the status of the department’s future operations.

In part, that the problems the city is working to resolve were more deep-seated than officials thought, Jones stated.

“What’s apparent to me is that we are still not doing the best job with respect to protecting the safety of vulnerable children. This is unacceptable to me,” Jones said in a statement at the time.

He’d said about Hicks, “He will report directly to me in that capacity. I believe that David can offer valuable insight and leadership to help uncover the process issues that need to be fixed and that will ultimately turn the agency around.

He said also that the Virginia Department of Social Services will remain a partner in the city’s efforts to improve the department’s overall functioning. A

process-centric analysis is underway, Jones stated. “The state-assigned specialist is currently in the discovery phase, which I expect to be completed within the next week. After that time, we’ll begin implementation of the process issues that need to be corrected and I believe, based on the information provided and the additional steps that we are taking, that we’ll see a much stronger functioning agency with the next six months.”

At that time, Jones stated that Steve Harms will continue to serve as interim deputy chief administrative officer (DCAO) for human services until a permanent replacement is found.

“Steve will continue to focus on quality management and compliance issues, while David will help us delve into the process issues that continue to affect this agency.

Vitamin D from page 14

The Association of Mature American Citizens has created the AMAC Fitness Protection Program as a “palatable way” of improving the health of its members and all older Americans, said Dan Weber, AMAC president and advocate for the elderly.

Weber said that in addition to making older folks feel better, the advantages of keeping fit include the ability to prevent some of the more serious diseases associated with aging, including Type 2 Diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even Alzheimer’s.

“We want to make this an inclusive endeavor and so we’ve come up with a trio of rewards for members and their friends and families who pitch in with ideas for making it easier to live healthier and longer. AMAC is offering a $1,500 first prize, a $1,000 second prize and a $500 third prize for those who can create lifestyle games people can play that incorporate mental and physical exercise.

The focus of entries must be on brain teasers and light workouts for seniors involving repetitive activities.”

The association will introduce a new website in the near future that will offer news and research on the value of diet and exercise in controlling chronic disease in the elderly. Readers wishing to enter the Fitness Game contest before the site is available will be able to post their offerings at www.amac.us/fitness-contest Weber noted that as people get older they tend to seek ways to avoid activities that involve exertion. To quote one anonymous wag: The only exercise some people get is jumping to conclusions, running down their friends, side-stepping responsibility, and pushing their luck. We need to overcome inertia and find ways of improving our heart rates and blood sugar levels by developing good exercise habits.

Of course, it is important to check with your doctor before beginning any regimen that involves strenuous activities.”

Weber said that exercise is particular good for fending off Type 2 Diabetes and other chronic conditions. He cited a report by The World Health Organization, which says that a healthy diet, increased physical activity and avoiding tobacco use can prevent 80 percent of premature heart disease, 80 percent of type 2 diabetes cases and 40 percent of cancers.

“Our own AMAC Foundation recently produced a report discussing the potential of fruits and/or fruit juice to reduce [Alzheimer’s] disease progression and other recent studies focus on ways using exercise to stimulate brain activity as a means of checking the disease,” he said.

these confounding factors in the vitamin D literature.”

Although the association between vitamin D and cancer has already been discovered and is still being explored, this study takes a targeted look at how this link manifests differently between blacks and whites. There is still controversy in the medical community regarding how significant this link is, or if it has realworld treatment orprevention implications.

Further complicating matters, a study released last year in the New England Journal of Medicine asserts that black people generally do have sufficient vitamin D levels—it’s just a different, more readilyavailable form than the one measured by the standard test.

“We know a lot about the fact that in a lab test tube or animal, the active form of vitamin D can moderate, slow, or stop prostate tumor cells, and at high doses can even kill them. We don’t know yet whether treating people with vitamin D will reduce the chance of getting [cancer],” Trump said. He recommends a vitamin D-level test for his patients who are diagnosed with prostate cancer. In his experience, at least 70 percent diagnosed men are deficient, and he does prescribe supplements.

“We don’t know for sure that it makes a difference, but I believe it does” Trump said. “I think there is a distinct possibility that low vitamin D levels might contribute to the severity of prostate cancer in African American men—but we don’t have proof of that at the moment.”

AMAC to develop lifestyle games focused on teasers and light workouts

Dr. Donald Trump

of vitamin D for darker skin as it does for lighter skin.”

Additionally, people who are overweight are more likely to have low vitamin D levels. According to 2011 data from the Office of Minority Health, 70 percent of African American men 20 years and older are overweight or obese.The National Cancer Institute asserts that studies have shown obese men to be at greater risk for aggressive prostate cancer than men at a healthy weight.

“The fatter I get, the lower my vitamin D level goes, because it gets absorbed into body fat instead of my blood. That could be one possible explanation for the [racial] disparities in data,” Trump said.

“So maybe vitamin D is just a surrogate or marker for obesity. You see a few of

16 • May 21 - 27, 2014

ACTIVITIES & MEETINGS

The Richmond Voice

May 22

May 29

Develop your entrepreneurial and business skills at a free, 90-minute hour small business information session at the Crater Small Business Development Center (SBDC) of Longwood University. “What It Takes to Start a Business” topics include: what you need to know about financing your business venture, what lenders require in terms of collateral, credit, and equity, available resources to assist you as a potential or existing business owner, and the opportunity to meet with business counselors.

The information session will be held on Thursday, May 22 from 3:30 - 5 p.m. at the Crater Planning District Commission Offices, 1964 Wakefield Street, Petersburg.

Because of limited seating, reservations are requested. Call 804-518-2003 or e-mail hoodpa@longwood.edu. For directions go to www.craterpdc.org.

Mount Tabor Baptist Church will hold its spring revival Thursday and Friday, May 29-30.

Both days will feature a 7 p.m. worship service with Dr. Marquita Burton of Antioch Baptist Church in Susan, as speaker. The Antioch Baptist Church Choir will also be in attendance. On Friday, Rev. Alvin T. Armstead, pastor, First Union Baptist Church Dill Rd. will speak and the First Baptist Church Choir will also be in attendance.

Mount Tabor Baptist Church is located at 2011 Fairmount Ave., Richmond. For more information, call 804-643-0903.

Starting a business seminar

May 23

Calling Virginia screenwriters

The deadline for the 26th Virginia Screenwriting Competition sponsored by the Virginia Film Office is Friday, May 23 at midnight. The annual Virginia Screenwriting Competition is created to provide Virginia screenwriters with a forum for their work and an opportunity to present their scripts to professional members of the industry.

For the first time, all submissions to the competition must be electronical only, hard copies will not be accepted. The script must be saved in a non-editable format. All screenplays must be e-mailed to screenplay@virginia.org.

Mount Tabor Baptist Church revival

Ongoing

The homeownership team at Community Housing Partners (CHP) wants people to know that pre-purchase counseling can help prevent buyers from taking on more house than they can afford.

According to a recent study provided by NeighborWorks America, homeowners who receive pre-purchase housing counseling from NeighborWorks member organizations such as CHP are nearly a third less likely to fall behind with mortgages than those who have not. This is based on a comparative study conducted by Experian examining 75,000 loans that originated between 2007 – 2009 at the height of the nation’s financial crisis.

To learn more, contact Catrina Paige at cpaige@chpc2.org or 804.343.7201, ext. 2035.

RVA Grooves

RVA Grooves returns, bringing the movement live to the Hippodrome Theater in Richmond’s Jackson Ward community. From May 23–July 25 guests can enjoy an exciting variety of live music inside one of Richmond’s most popular entertainment venues. This summer’s concert lineup caters to all music lovers and features several familiar forces in jazz, R&B, hip hop, rock, and folk, including an opener with Grammy Award-winning soul singer-songwriter Chrisette Michele.

May 24

Memorial Day commemoration

The Richmond National Battlefield Parkwill also be commemorating Memorial Day weekend with a special program at Cold Harbor on Saturday, May 24 as part of the 150th anniversary of the 1864 Overland Campaign. More information about that program can be found online on the park’s website, www.nps.gov/rich/parknews/reverberations.htm.

May 26

Memorial Day at Fort Harrison

Richmond National Battlefield Park, in cooperation with the Department of Veterans Affairs, is sponsoring a Memorial Day program and wreath-laying to honor and remember those who have died in our nation’s service—especially those soldiers and sailors from the Civil War. This annual free event is scheduled for Monday, May 26, at 12 p.m., at the Fort Harrison National Cemetery, on the Fort Harrison battlefield. The cemetery is located at 8620 Varina Road, two miles south of Route 5 and eight miles south of Richmond. More than 800 Civil War soldiers are buried at the Fort Harrison National Cemetery.

Maj. Gen. Donald R. Gardner, USMC (ret.), will speak at the cemetery. Gardner’s Marine Corps career began in 1955 and extended to 1994. Assignments as commanding general, III Marine Expeditionary Force; commanding general 3rd Marine Division; and commanding general, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, are among the many highlights of his service to the country.

Gen. Gardner’s talk is a part of the national park’s continuing commemoration of the sesquicentennial of the Civil War in the Richmond area. This spring marks the 150th anniversary of the Overland Campaign around Richmond.

Only submit the who, what, where and when.

We reserve the right to edit all submissions for space, clarity, style and grammar.

Flyers will not be accepted.

E-mail events to editor@voicenewspaper.com.

The Richmond Voice

NATIONAL

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 17

The haunting artifacts of the national Sept. 11 museum From wire reports In a vast hall seven stories beneath Ground Zero, survivors and family of those who perished on Sept. 11, 2001 gathered last week for the long-awaited dedication of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

They sat surrounded by the massive Slurry Wall, the concrete monolith that held back the Hudson River when the towers collapsed, as well as the Last Column, a 36-foot steel pillar that was the last to be removed from the site.

But the speakers who took the stage at the ceremony, including President Barack Obama and an array of those who led the city through 9/11 and its aftermath, focused on objects seemingly trivial and impossibly small.

The shoes that Florence Jones wore and then carried down 77 flights of stairs as she escaped from her office in the South Tower, for instance. The smell they carried from “that day” was almost too toxic to hold on to, she recalled near tears at the ceremony.

The wristwatch that belonged to Todd Beamer, the software salesman believed to have led efforts to reclaim Flight 93 from hijackers. The red handkerchief worn by Welles Crowther, an equities trader who perished after saving more than a dozen lives in evacuation efforts.

That last item figured prominently in remarks by the president, who movingly described meeting Crowther’s mother three years prior.

“Today, as we saw on our tour, one of his red handkerchiefs is on display in this museum,” said Obama. “And from this day forward, all those who come here will have a chance to know the sacrifice of a young man who—like so many—gave his life so others might live.”

It was a fitting testament to the hole that the 9/11 Memorial & Museum fills, literally, as a fraught seven-year building and financing process culminates with its opening this week.

President Obama also spoke about the importance of the memorial, explaining that its construction was a “great undertaking,” and that the site is now a “sacred place of healing and of hope.”

“Here, at this memorial, this museum, we

President Barack Obama tours the National September 11 Memorial Museum. The museum opens to the general public on May 21.

come together,” he said. “We stand in the footprints of two mighty towers, graced by the rush of eternal waters.

“We look into the faces of nearly 3,000 innocent souls -- men and women and children of every race, every creed, and every corner of the world. We can touch their names and hear their voices and glimpse the small items that speak to the beauty of their lives. A wedding ring. A dusty helmet. A shining badge.

“Here we tell their story, so that generations yet unborn will never forget.

Of coworkers who led others to safety.

Passengers who stormed a cockpit. Our men and women in uniform who rushed into an inferno. Our first responders who charged up those stairs. A generation of servicemembers -- our 9/11 generation -- who have served with honor in more than a decade of war. A nation that stands tall and united and unafraid -- because no act of terror can match the strength or the character of our country. Like the great wall and bedrock that embrace us today, nothing can ever break us; nothing can change who we are as Americans.”

The events of Sept. 11 have been memorialized in every conceivable way

in the years since then—books, films, speeches, benefit concerts, moments of silence, photography and motivational speaking tours.

And now, the ephemera that survived are encased behind glass in a $700 million museum, where visitors—whether family of victims or passing tourists—can come and catch a haunting glimpse of the intimate physical realities of that day. Some are small and fleeting; others, like a crushed fire truck or seven-story steel trident, large and hulking.

More than 10,000 such artifacts are present in the museum, placed alongside massive exterior samples from the towers, video recollections and audio recordings.

They are “unlikely but powerful keepsakes that help us understand the events of that day in human terms,” said New York Mayor Bill de Blasio sat the ceremony. “Each piece carries with it another story, one that might have been our own.”

He and the president were joined by speakers, including New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former New York Gov. George Pataki, and former New York City mayors

Rudy Giuliani and Michael Bloomberg, who is chairman of the board of the museum. Their remarks were brief, to keep the entire program an hour in length and to save room for appearances by survivors and rescue responders, including former FDNY Lieutenant Mickey Kross and 11 of his firefighters.

Former President George W. Bush was notably absent, though he issued a statement praising the museum. “It will help ensure that our nation remembers the lessons of September 11th,” wrote Bush, among them the reminder “that courage and love triumph over terror and hate.”

Those tropes—of resilience and healing and unity—appeared again and again in last week’s ceremony, as they did in those stumbling weeks and months in the fall of 2001.

“This museum is a testament to the resilience, the courage, and the compassion of the human spirit,” Bloomberg said as he closed the ceremony.

Streaming out of the cool, underground space and into the rainy din of the Financial District, where the bustling banalities of daily Manhattan life carry on 13 years later, that message registered.

18 • May 21 - 27, 2014

The Richmond Voice

Mentoring groups worry about funding for initiative Keeper which is still moving forward.”

Last week, all media inquiries for 100 Black Men of America were referred to Greg Heydel, vice president and group director of reputation management at Matlock Advertising and Public Relations in Atlanta, Ga., who e-mailed the 100 Black Men of America’s May 1 statement to reporters.

The OJJDP removed the language about My Brother’s Keeper from the grant application.

Broderick Johnson, White House cabinet secretary and chair of the My Brother’s Keeper Task Force, said, “The Department of Justice readily admitted that it led to a misunderstanding that’s been corrected and we made it clear to other agencies that they shouldn’t put things out like that with

Michael Brown, president of 100 Black Men of America, Inc.

By Freddie Allen WASHINGTON (NNPA) – A recent controversy over potential funding linked to President Barack Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative underscored concerns that groups led by people of color have expressed over access to public and private sector resources.

At the heart of the confusion was a request for proposal (RFP) issued through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention for a youth mentoring program grant. In March, the grant required groups that wanted to apply be active in 30 states. By April, that requirement had been revised upward to 45 states, placing the grant far beyond the reach of most minority-led groups that mentor underserved minority youth in the United States.

A paragraph in the RFP connecting the grant to the president’s My Brother’s Keeper program seemed to complicate the matter.

In a letter addressed to Robert Listenbee, the administrator for the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Michael Brown, president of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., said that the rule change, “not only effectively eliminated our organization from meeting the

eligibility requirements for funding, but also dashed any hopes that such venerable institutions as the National Urban League, the NAACP and each of nine Historically Black Greek Organizations may have had for competing in this significant funding opportunity.”

In a separate letter, Marc Morial, the president and CEO of the National Urban League, wrote that his group was “surprised,” “greatly disappointed and deeply concerned” about the rule change.

“The Department’s stated commitment to ‘include mentoring opportunities for young men and boys of color in order to build resilience, encourage empowerment, and facilitate community engagement and participation’ is directly undermined by the reframing of the national program that by definition, removes organizations such as the National Urban League from even competing for funds,” wrote Morial.

Both letters were later posted on Politics365.com.

By May 1, however, 100 Black Men of America seemed to step back from their criticism of OJJDP, offering a brief statement through their Twitter account that said that they met with the Department of Justice and found that their concern “was not related to My Brother’s

regards to their solicitations.”

George Garrow, executive director of Concerned Black Men, a national organization that works to enrich the lives of young Black males, said that the mistake was unfortunate for the president’s fledgling project.

“They are people that are out there that don’t want to see this [My Brother Keeper’s program] happen at all and will take those types of things and use that against all of us. That little dust up that happened on Politics365.com, that could have been cleared up with a phone call,” said Garrow.

“The next thing you know, it’s a bunch of mess.”

The task force’s report, that will be ​ See “Keeper’s funding” on pg. 21

NAACP champions Obama climate change report

By James Wright NNPA — The NAACP threw its support behind a climate assessment report released by the Obama administration, echoing the report’s assertion that climate change has played a significant role in increasingly extreme weather patterns.

The civil rights organization, which has shown interest in environmental issues since its founding in 1909, agreed with the report’s assessment that climate change is affecting all Americans in every part of the country and important sectors of the economy.

“Extreme weather, pollution from fossil fuels and toxic emissions not only affect all aspects of our lives from health to economics to education, but also disproportionately impact lowincome communities and communities of color,” said Jacqueline Patterson, NAACP’s director of environmental and climate justice. “We must take the finding from this report seriously and make the necessary changes to protect our environment.”

The administration’s report, which was issued Tuesday, concluded that extreme weather events with links to climate change —prolonged periods of heat, heavy downpours, floods and droughts — are far more frequent in recent years.

The report notes that the warming of the

sea is causing it to rise, glaciers and Artic sea ice is melting and oceans are becoming more acidic due to increased carbon dioxide absorption — all of which have a profound impact on the quality of human life, Patterson said.

“Critical steps must include building sustainable communities, restructuring the electricity grid to emphasize energy efficiency and clean energy, building equitable and resilient housing, integrating equity into the emergency management continuum and more,” she said.

The NAACP has put additional focus on such causes for communities of color in the past two decades, working with environmental organizations such as the Sierra Club in lobbying Congress and the White House for environmental justice.

In 2012, the organization released a groundbreaking report, “Coal Blooded,” that ranked the environmental justice performance of the nation’s 378 coal-fired power plants. Last year, it released “Just Energy Policies,” a report that evaluates energy policy in the 50 states and the District of Columbia from a civil rights perspective.

Patterson said that addressing climate change is not just about what is going on today.

“We must seize this opportunity to protect our communities now, tomorrow and for generations to come,” she said.

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 19

The Richmond Voice

Public can now see best views in Washington — again WASHINGTON — Visitors set foot inside the Washington Monument last week, nearly three years after a 5.8-magnitude earthquake closed it for repairs.

About 1,800 people, including veterans wounded in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and their families, were allowed inside. Beforehand, the National Park Service had an hourlong reopening ceremony with schoolchildren, bands, singers and speeches.

“Going up in there and looking out reminded me of what I was fighting for,” said Marine Cpl. Tim Donley, who now uses a wheelchair because of the injuries he sustained. From the top, visitors can see the White House, the Capitol, the museums and monuments on the National Mall and beyond to Arlington Cemetery.

Visitors can examine new exhibits on the top floor of the 555-foot structure, including one that tells the story of Gen. George Washington.

The epicenter of the Aug. 23, 2011, earthquake that damaged the iconic obelisk on the National Mall was about 90 miles southwest of Washington, but it caused more than 150 cracks in the monument's marble, including one near the peak that split a stone from top to bottom.

For two years, construction workers mended the marble and reinforced weak

spots.

Some damaged marble was replaced with salvaged material or stone from the same Maryland quarry as the monument’s original marble. The replacement stone had been saved from the steps of old Baltimore row houses.

“Repairing the Washington Monument included the painstaking process of inspecting more than 20,000 stones, repairing cracks, securing loose stones, installing steel supports and repairing extensive damage to the elevator, in addition to completing a thorough seismic study,” said Jonathan B. Jarvis, National Park Service director.

The project was completed on time and within budget, thanks to a $7.5 million donation from financier David Rubenstein of The Carlyle Group. His gift was matched with money from Congress.

Original construction on the Washington Monument began in 1848 but stopped in 1854 when donations ran out. It resumed in 1879, after the Civil War. And the monument was dedicated on Feb. 21, 1885, the day before the former president’s birthday.

The political divisions that stopped construction 160 years ago aren’t too different from Washington today, said the president of the non-profit Trust for the National Mall, Caroline Cunningham.

NAACP names L.A. interim president The interim president of the NAACP’s Los Angeles chapter said recently it was “inexcusable” that the organization was planning to give a humanitarian award to Clippers owner Donald Sterling, who was banned for life from the NBA for racist comments that were caught on tape.

Lorraine Miller, in a message addressed to “civil rights activists,” vowed that changes would be made in the operation of the chapter. The chapter’s previous leader, Leon Jenkins, resigned in the wake of questions about his ties with Sterling.

In her letter, Miller said the NAACP was “actively engaged” in reviewing the operation of the Los Angeles branch.

“We will determine the shortcomings that enabled Donald Sterling to receive or be considered for any awards,” Miller wrote. “We will prevent this from happening again.”

The chapter had been planning to present

Sterling with a humanitarian award at a banquet later this month. Jenkins held a news conference Monday announcing that the group was rescinding the honor and returning monetary contributions Sterling had made to the organization. The chapter also honored Sterling in 2009.

“We recognize the need for all our units to have the resources to serve their communities, but we must not allow that need to compromise our founding principles,” Miller wrote. “We must determine what Donald Sterling donated to the NAACP Los Angeles branch—in order for it to be returned.

“My friends, I know you may be angry, frustrated and confused,” she wrote. “We will be making changes, and I hope our commitment to addressing this issue helps us move forward, so we can remain focused on the critical issues facing so many of our communities.”

V

20 • May 21 - 27, 2014

The Richmond Voice

The VOICE is distributed throughout Richmond, Petersburg, and 7 Southside Virginia Counties.

DOWNTOWN (Rich) Becky s Diner Choe s Market Johnson Beauty MBL J W Boatright, MD Lomax Barbershop S&R ood Store Richmond Visitor s Center Croaker s Spot 533 Club 3rd Bethel AME Church Gilpin Court O fice Supremes Hair Shop Consolidated Bank Jamals Barbershop Harvey s Barbershop Barky s Ann s Restaurant Randy Adams D D S Jackson Barber Shop Haywoods Hair mages Urban League Daily Planet DMJ Salon ony s Restaurant 12th & Main Post O fice Va Employment Comm 7th & ranklin Building Library o Va Va Credit Union Dept o Public Sa ety John Marshall Court City Hall City Hall-Padows City Hall Downstairs Basement 360 West Sea ood VCU Health Services VDO Hq Madison Building he Market Supermarket J Sargeant Reynolds Hood emple Zion Church Adult Career Dev Center Ebenezer Church Belv Medical Center Brook Rd Post O fice Baptist General Conv VUU Henderson Hall ABC O fices Dominion Place Moore St Baptist Church Broad St Post o fice Hawkes BBQ Science Museum Broad St CVS Antioch Baptist Church Willow Lawn Shopping Center West End Library Richmond Comm High Beta ech Corporate Center Momo s Market Deli antastic Laundry Belmont Library VA Supportive Housing Verizon Boys & Girls Club St James Baptist Church Sunny Market Riverview Baptist Church an hri t Store Mt Vernon Baptist Church 5th Baptist Church Randolph Place Byrd Community Center Grace & Holy rinity Epis DMV VCU 3600 Center Laprade Library

SOUTHSIDE (Rich) Cross Over Minst Adult Day Care Citgo Service Station owers Senior Apts

Stonewall Subway Sacred Heart School Youth Enpowerment Center Rich Christian Center Agape Barber Shop Manchester Medical Center Maury ood Market La oos Hair Dept Juvenile Justice Max Market Quick & Easy AMEEN S Rich Adult Day Care Ctr mani Wholeness Ctr S Com Development Corp Harold s Kitchen amily Dollar Jasmines Hair amily Dollar Golden Skillet J D Supermarket Mt Olive Baptist Church E V ncome ax Service Je erson Cleaners Sabor Latino Restaurant Check Cashed ast and riend Conv, Store R S Express Hawkes Barbecue Video Mart Sandra J Smith D D S Mr Submarine Golden Market Speed Queen Coin Laundry Come & Go ood Market Hair Expose Barber & Beau Gene s Market S&S ast Mart Grace Cleaner&Laundromat King s Supermarket Shell Station Oak Grove Elem School “Mansion Ave riumph Baptist Church n & Out Store “Redeemed Assem O Jesus What A Burger Broomfield CME 301 Express Convenience Rite Aid Drug Store GB Sea ood Madison emple AME Zion Church aith Building Ministries O Harold s Beauty Salon Market Place Sleep & Beauty Salon O, aste & See Spinner Melvin ox Manor Ed s Ca é Sea ood Pride Beauty Supply C & C Quick Stop Hair Hair B R Jalyka amily Value Hair Expressions Southside Com Svc Ctr Jack Rabbit Store Post O fice Kiosk Rent-A-Center armers oods ast Mart Charlesvoix Court rue Dreams Super Nails Precision Cuts Q Market ood & Deli New Deliv Evan Church Ukrops he Renaissance Bus Stop Shear Per ection Betty Brite Coin Laundry

Swansboro School Broad Rock Library K- ood Morning Star Baptist Church Chicago Ave Baptist Poly Clean Center James ood Store McGuire Hospital Reflections New Vision Hair Design B & S ood Mart Love Center o Unity ull Gos erry Lounge Hair Star Beauty S & L Carribbean Place or aste Boy s Club Dash Central Library Post O fice Lily Cleaners Hooks Charwood orrest Meadowdale Post O fice St Pauls Baptist Church A & Sea ood Murry Steak House Douk Hair Braiding

NORTHSIDE (Rich) VA ABC Store Greyhound Bus erminal Carpool Kroger Miracle Christ o our Lord 6th Mt Zion Bapt Church Great Mt Morial Shockoe Hill Apts Sr Citizen Building Calhoun amily Ctr RRHA O fices Mahogany n Due Season Hair Salon Dr homas Pediatrist Chevron Station Chamberlayne Video Neighborhood Housing Ser Richmond Coin Laundry Hair A air #1 Cleaner R & S ood Store rinity Baptist Church irst A rican Bapt Ch All Souls Presby Ch North ood Mart North Ave Deli Ray s Ultimate Hair Design Good Luck A rican Hair Lonnies Beauty & Barber Comm Coin Laundry China own Express ommies Barbershop Cuts 4 Barbershop Unlimited Per ormance rents North Ave Post o fice Norvelle Shoe Northside Hardware Northside oodland Old Dominion Pro St Phillips Episc Church North Avenue Library Chandler Middle Sch Hotchkiss Community Ctr Brookland Pk Plaza Grayland Baptist Stop & Go Market & Deli Overby Shepard Elementary Sch rims Barber Shop Bank o America Stay ocused Barber ish Market BP Station irst Union Baptist Church i th Street Baptist Church reatment Center

Abundant Li e ellowship NY ried Chicken Simpson s S Market 3 Jin s Market Li e-Line or Jesus Ch Coin Laundry Providence Bapt Ch One Stop ood Market Lucky s Laburnum Elem School Great Value amily Secrets Restau Samkade Coin Laundry Twiggy’s Pananenian Restaurant 212 W. Brookland Park Blvd.

Coin Laundry St Peter s Bapt Ch Pine Camp Henderson Mid School Abbey Square John Marshall High Sch Ginter Park Elem Sch s Barbershop Gul stream Sea ood HoHo Chinese Restau Washland Coin Laundry Richmond Comm Sr Center Royal Convenience Keyser Sea ood s Hair & Nail Colortyme Rental VEC airfield Library Mosby Memorial Ch Mechanicsville Chevron Sugar & Spice Restaurant he Peanut Shop iger Nail VCS Hair School Gia s Hair Salon Whitcomb Court O fice Gospel Baptist Church Cool Lane Cleaners Community Supermarket Armstrong High School Stuarts Sea ood Cool Lane Express airfield Court Wesley Memorial Ch Wood olk & Son Bethlehem Bapt Ch Mount abor Bapt Ch Stop & Go Roma Pizza “Sandra s Southern Style ood RCAP Richmond City Jail “Eastminster Presbyterian Church Market Place 14 airmount House “Martin Luther King Middle School Great Hope Baptist Ch Cedar Street Baptist Ch Churchill House Bloomfield Market 608 Bowler Retirement East District Ctr rents Beauty & Hair Chimborazo Elem Sch Bacon Retirement Com at Ducks Grocery 31st Street Baptist Ch 4th Baptist Church Good Shepard Baptist Woodville Presby Ch “Richmond Coin Laundry #3 Harvey s Barber Shop amily Dollar Edloe Pharmacy East End Library Seagull s Kitchen Carolina BBQ ood Circus

Want a free box for your store or office?

Please email richmond.voice@verizon.net

East Gate Auto Care Hillard House J Express Mart K Mart BP Station armers oods ood Mart Ocean World Sea ood ine oods Supermart 88 Cleaners Pop in Beauty Supply Poly Clean Center ast Mart Quik Mart 1 Joyce s Beauty Salon Krispies ried Chicken Powhatan Comm Ctr Bland s lorist Sycamore owers Petersburg Public Library Gillhaven Manor

SOUTHSIDE COUNTIES Country nn Restaurant L V Harris Heating & Plumbing W E Hawks & Son uneral Heritage Hall Nursing Home Spring Hill Bapt Church Ben s Barber Shop S P Jones & Son uneral Svcs Jones Barber Shop Captain s Choice Sea ood Dr Carrol Gee, Dentistry Pennington Grocery Dine- N -Crewe Styles Unlimited Beauty/Sheay Pleasure Cousins Nursing Home Piedmont Geriatric Hospital Jaris Barbershop Nottoway Corrections Center Paris nn Resturant Set & Sew Country Convenience Store Bland uneral Home Mr B Barber Shop Gearl s Beauty Shop rinity Mission Health & Rehab armville Dialysis Burkeville Market Burkeville Hairshack Love s owing Dominion Worship Center

PETERSBURG AND TRI-CITIES AREA John Randolph Hospital Hopewell High School ood Lion New Millenium Cleaners Ukrop s U S Post O fice Petersburg School Board Walnut Hill Laundry Center Petersburg High School ood Lion Plaza Hawkes BBQ Royall nn Motel Bethany Baptist Church U S Post O fice Petersburg City Hall Roses VSU Book Store House o Restoration Mt Olivet Baptist Church Exxon Lucky 7 Conv Store Lee s ish House - Laundry Laundry Lux ood Lion Westgate Coin Laundry Peabody Middle School Petersburg Health Dept Zion Baptist Church Social Services Dept

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 21

The Richmond Voice

USDA to accommodate religious diets

By Jazelle Hunt WASHINGTON (NNPA) — As it stands, Muslim and Jewish families in need might have to choose between following their faith and adequately feeding their families.

But thanks to an amendment tacked on to the Agricultural Act of 2014, also known as the farm bill, the U.S. Department of Agriculture must begin providing halal and kosher food to community emergency food providers.

More than a dozen metro areas are home to large African American Muslim and/ or Jewish populations, including Chicago, Detroit, New York City, Philadelphia, and Memphis. Incidentally, a few of these areas have high poverty rates, particularly among blacks, between 2008 and 2012. For example, 26 percent of people in Memphis were living below the poverty line.

According to the Pew Center, about 15 percent of the nation’s population is considered food insecure. At the same time, enrollment in the food stamp program is three times as high as it was in 2000.

“In these tough economic times, food banks and pantries are playing a critical role in serving our most vulnerable communities by helping to ensure they have access to nutritious meals and food. However, many pantries face an uphill battle in trying to meet the needs of observant families because they have difficulty identifying and obtaining kosher food,” said Rep. Joe Crowley (D-NY.), a co-sponsor of this amendment to the farm bill. “Our amendment will make it easier for food banks to provide kosher and halal foods and, in turn, ensure no family has to choose between abiding by their religious beliefs or having enough food to eat.”

Originally, Crowley (in partnership with Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York) suggested the halal and kosher provisions in 2012 as a stand-alone bill, after the need became apparent in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. When it didn’t pass, he repackaged the idea as an amendment to the farm bill, which President Obama signed into law this past February.

The USDA already provides emergency food to state providers through the Emergency Food Assistance Program.

These government supplies feed food banks;then, local pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, and other anti-hunger community organizations purchase items from the food banks at discounted and subsidized rates.

Crowley’s amendment requires the USDA to inventory and track items that are inherently kosher and halal, and ensure the provisions get to food banks where they are most needed. It also directs the Secretary of Agriculture to improve efforts to seek and purchase food from certified kosher and halal vendors, at the same price as non-kosher or halal products.

As Stephan Kline, associate vice president for Public Policy for the Jewish Federation of America explains, “If this works, what is likely to be the best benefit is a greater degree of meat and fish protein [pantry managers] would be able to access so clients can have more choices, and more variety in their diets.”

Choice is a key component at the Mitzvah Food Project, based in the Philadelphia metro area. The project is a network of five fully kosher pantries (including three with delivery service) that serves 2,600 families each year. Unlike many pantries, the Mitzvah Project allows clients to choose their groceries, instead of providing pre-packaged bundles.

When faced with the choice between adhering to religious dietary laws and feeding their families, many choose to contend with hunger, says Deirdre Mulligan, the program’s manager.

“For the people who are keeping to their religious practice, they will eat less to make sure they are being observant from what I’ve seen,” she says, sharing an example of a family who had requested kosher beef. “The mother from one of my families told me that’s the first time she had had beef in years. Kosher beef is more expensive than organic. She has a large family, she’s a stay-at-home mom, her husband doesn’t make a whole lot of money, and she has a special needs son who will need care for the rest of his life.”

The words “halal” and “kosher” refer to food that is in line with regulations laid out in the Holy Books. The regulations encompass both foods that are forbidden (as in pork for Muslims and shellfish for Jews), as well as the ways in which food is prepared (such as humane, ritualized slaughter). For those who follow the Quran’s and Torah’s teachings, eating against these guidelines is forbidden.

The need for emergency kosher and halal provisions comes out of many factors. For example, much of the food at standard food banks is unacceptable for a kosher or halal diet.

Halal foods are foods that are allowed under Islamic dietary guidelines

Keeper’s funding from page 18 released in less than a month, will offer a review of best practices and evidencedbased strategies focused on early learning and literacy, pathways to college and careers, ladders to jobs, mentors and support networks, and interactions with criminal justice and violent crime.

The crisis facing boys and young men of color as they transition to adulthood has been chronicled for decades.

Black males are more at risk to be suspended than their white peers, suffer a disproportionate number of expulsions and more than 40 percent of referrals to law enforcement while in school.

A 2012 study titled “The Urgency of Now” by the Schott Foundation for Public Education, reported that barely half (52 percent) of black males graduate from high school in four years, compared to 78 percent of white males.

Research by the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass., found that 9 percent of male high school dropouts, ages 16–24, are incarcerated or in detention. For young black male dropouts of the same age, that number is 23 percent.

And when one high school dropout can cost the nation more than a quarter of a million dollars, over their lifetime in lost earnings, taxes and productivity, allowing black males to dropout in droves threatens the country’s economic security.

“If you say that you want to increase the high school graduation rate, you can do some generic things with generic young people, but if you’re really going to impact the high school graduation rate, you need to develop strategies that are specifically focused on black boys, because black boys

account for a disproportionate number of students graduating at low rates,” Garrow said. He said that he’s hopeful that this effort, with the president putting his weight behind it.

“To really have a lasting impact on black kids you have to get those multi-year funding bequests to sustain a program over a lengthy period of time. That’s when you see positive outcomes for our kids, when you’re able to stay the course,” he explained.

Garrow also expressed concerns that some groups, that have worked for years to help young Black men, don’t have the infrastructure to independently evaluate their programs and present concrete data that their programs work. The very type of evidence-based strategies that President Obama called for in his speech on the My Brother’s Keeper program in February.

“If you’re going to foundations and seeking federal funding you have to have those evaluation pieces in place, because you’re going to have to show people that you’re having a measurable impact and seeing positive outcomes in the population that you’re serving,” said Garrow.

Johnson said that it’s critical to work with people who are on the ground and in the neighborhoods doing the hard work and that the My Brother’s Keeper program isn’t viewed as something crafted by people who run national organizations that are based in a handful of cities.

“This is a long-term project and it’s important that people understand that the president didn’t get into this for a 90-day report or a 90-day project or short-term grants for FY2014, or ’15,” said Johnson.

“Throughout his administration and beyond, ‘My Brother’s Keeper’ will exist to make a difference for a long time.”

22 • May 21 - 27, 2014

CLASSIFIED & LEGAL ADS

The Richmond Voice

Visit us on the web

@ www.voicenewspaper.com

The Richmond Voice AUCTIONS AUCTION - FORECLOSURE 26,472± SF Warehouse/ Office.1.73± AC • Visible from I-664. 401 Industry Dr., Hampton, VA. ON-SITE SALE: WED, 5/28 @ 3 PM http://www.motleys.com• 877-6685397 (VA16 EHO) COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AUCTION Strip-Center, Convenience Store w/fuel, Home, Retail Space and Car Lot (1.5 acres) 7181 Kings Hwy, King George, VA 22485. Friday, May30TH, 12 Noon. Call 540-2261279 – www.nichollsauction.com vaaf 729 AUTO AUCTIONS Spring Collector Car Sale at Motley's Richmond Auto Auction-Saturday, May 31, 2014 at 10AM-Visit richmondaa.com for information-Now Accepting Consignments-VAAL#102 EDUCATION / TRAINING Medical Office Trainees Needed!

Train to become a Medical Office Assistant. No Experience Needed!

Training & Job Placement available at CTI! HS Diploma/GED & computer needed. 1-888-4249419.

HELP WANTED / SALES Earn $500 A-DAY: Insurance Agents Needed; Leads, No Cold Calls; Commissions Paid Daily; Lifetime Renewals; Complete Training; Health/Dental Insurance; Life Insurance Required. Call 1-888-713-6020.

HELP WANTED / TRUCK DRIVERS DRIVERS-CDL TRAINING $38,000-$45,000 1st Year!

Roanoke 540-857-6188 or Spotsylvania 540-582-8200.

4 Weeks or 10 Weekends.

Guaranteed Financing and Job Placement Assistance Available.

Veterans Welcome 1-800-6462374.

AVERITT EXPRESS New Pay Increase For Regional Drivers!

40-46 CPM + Fuel Bonus! Also,

Post-Training Pay Increase for Students! (Depending on Domicile) Get Home EVERY Week + Excellent Benefits.

CDL-A req. 888-362-8608 Apply @ AverittCareers.com Equal Opportunity Employer – Females, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

REGIONAL TRACTOR-TRAILER DRIVERS $1200-$1350 Weekly.

Regional Mid-Atlantic area.

Work 5 days, off every weekend.

Health & Life Insurance, 401K & Pension plan, paid holidays & vacation. Requires good MVR & DOT record, min 2 yrs experience, Hazmat within 30 days.

Houff Transfer Weyers Cave, Winchester, Richmond, Baltimore, Md. Apply at: www.houff.com 877-234-9233 57 Driver Trainees needed! No experience needed! Learn to drive a truck at Shippers Choice! Job ready in 4 weeks! Good pay & benefits! 1-800-874-7131 LAND FOR SALE 271+/- ACRES Patrick & Henry Counties, VA. Subdivided; 25 to 75 acre tracts. (2) Homes: (2) Doublewides. All fenced; Hay Barn; Pasture Land. www.

RogersAuctionGroup.com 800442-7906. VAAL#2.

LOTS AND ACREAGE ANTEBELLUM ALBEMARLE MANSION on 200 acres. Totally restored historic landmark, candidate for conservation easement. $3,995,000. 540448-0393 LAND DEAL! On Sontag Road in Franklin County – Unrestricted acre lot. $24,900 and I’ll finance.

NO closing costs – NO credit check – 540-294-3826 7 ACRES – wooded with wet weather stream in Nelson County near Route 60. $49,900. Easy owner financing. 540-487-0480 MISCELLANEOUS Healthcare Careers – Get training

May 21 - 27, 2014 • 23 in months, not years with small classes, financial aid for qualified students. Call Centura College 877-575-5627.

WELDING CAREERS – Hands on training for career opportunities in shipbuilding, automotive, manufacturing and more. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. CALL Tidewater Tech 888-205-1735.

AIRLINE CAREERS begin here – Get FAA approved Aviation Maintenance Technician training.

Housing and Financial Aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. SCHEV Certified, CALL AIM 888-245-9553.

SAWMILLS from only $4397.00MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: www.

NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800578-1363 Ext.300N MOUNTAIN PROPERTY FREE 19 FT SEARAY POWER BOAT & TRAILER w/ purchase of beautifully wooded, level lake access parcel at spectacular mountain lake. Includes boat slip and marina membership, too!

Walk to golf, skiing and lake! All for only $99,900. It’s the best mountain land bargain in America.

Limited time offer. Excellent financing.

Call now 877-888-7581, x279 PERSONALS Meet singles right now! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages and connect live. Try it free. Call now 1-800-587-9105 Curious About Men? Talk Discreetly with men like you! Try FREE! Call 1-800-659-2174 www. guyspy.com SERVICES DIVORCE – Uncontested, $350 + $88 court cost. No court appearance required. Estimated completion time twenty-one days.

All telephone inquiries welcome with no obligation. Hilton Oliver, Attorney. 757-490-0126.

DIVORCE WITH OR WITHOUT children $125.00. Includes name change and property settlement agreement. SAVE hundred. Fast and easy. Call 1-888-733-7165, 24/7.

Six day vacation in Orlando, Florida! Regularly $1,175.00.

Yours today for only $389.00!

You SAVE 67 percent. PLUS One-week car rental included.

Call for details. 1-800-361-0453

If you have lost vision from a

STROKE

Find out if new Side Vision Awareness Glasses can help you see better.

Call for a FREE phone consultation with Dr. Armstrong, Optometrist Offices in: Roanoke, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Wytheville

Learn more at: www.VirginiaLowVision.com Dr. David L. Armstrong (866) 321-2030

Have Payday Loan$? Want to GET RID of Payday Loan$?

Get Payday companies out of your pocket now! Call Now! No obligation. 1-800-560-2170 DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 800-820-4978

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS You WIN or pay us nothing.

Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. 888802-0757

Get breaking news by e-mail.

Subscribe at: www. voicenewspaper. com

+/162AC VIRGINIA

SOUTHERN

USE THE ONLINE BIDDING TOOLS BID AND PAY YOUR PRICE! • COMMERCIAL PROPERTY ROANOKE • THAXTON LIVING ESTATE-HOME/LAND • 162 ACRES SOUTHERN VIRGINIA • GREAT FALLS, VIRGINIA HOME • MARYLAND WATERFRONT HOME

TOLL FREE RECORDED MESSAGE 800-613-9883 ID#2014

Reach over 39,000 potential READING customers NEWSPAPERS each week by advertising here. IS A QUEST LIKE NO OTHER To get started, e-mail your ad to Pick up your copy of ads@ The Richmond Voice every voicenewspaper.

Wednesday com.

Blue Ridge Land & Auction Co, Auctioneer, Matt Gallimore AL2907004059/2906000294. 10% B P.

E-edition Available daily at

www.voicenewspaper.com Convenient

Timely

Free

Flexible

Familiar

Community-focused

Simple

Connected