That week I spent most of my time online learning the Internet and searching for a suitable memorial stone for my daughter. In my search I kept coming across something called the Angel of Hope, we were looking for a memorial with an Angel in it but this was a bronze Angel and we were looking for something made out of stone. It intrigued me though as I kept running across it in my search, so I saved it to my favorites tab to view at a later date.

 After some time I went back into one of the sites that talked about the Angel of Hope and discovered that the Author Richard Paul Evans was responsible for forging the first Angel and that it was a memorial for bereaved parents to remember their children who are no longer with us.

 With the help of the community and through Mr. Evans organization I was able to raise the appropriate funds to have an Angel of Hope brought here to Richmond, Va. It now resides in the beautiful historic Hollywood Cemetery within sight of where we buried Reagan.

 Many parents visit throughout the year to come and remember their children, to leave little reminders like coins, flowers and pictures at the memorial. On December 6th at 6pm (7pm in most other locations nationwide) we gather in the darkness to light a candle and to share our stories with others, to celebrate the memories of our "Angels". At the end of the ceremony we lay a white flowing at the base of the Angel to honor and remember them.

 Everyone is invited to attend to be there for your own child or to remember a child of a relative or a friend. There is no set "age" of child, for as we all know, no matter how old they are they are still our children.

 For more information here in Virginia please go to "Angel of Hope Richmond Va" on acebook or for info on "Angel of Hope's" across the nation and a listing of them look up Richard Paul Evans on the web. 

When it comes to personal finances, some statistics surrounding women and their financial futures can be shocking. For example, the National Center for Women and Retirement Research reports that 75 percent of women are widowed at an average age of 56, and 25 percent of those women are financially broke within two months of being widowed. Further, they report that only 41 percent of women participate in the 401(k) plan offered by their employer, and 87 percent of elderly Americans in poverty are women. 

“Women are often involved in paying the bills and balancing the check book, but it’s scary how many women let the man take the driver’s seat when it comes to investing and planning for the future,” explains Samantha Fraelich, Certified Financial Planner  and Vice President of Bernard R. Wolfe & Associates, Inc., a company specializing in offering wealth management strategies. “Life throws us curve balls and we need to be prepared to take action if the worst happens. Otherwise, in the middle of what can be an emotional or upsetting time, we become frozen in fear. We’re unsure what our next step should be, and wondering who we can trust to help us move forward.”

Here are five steps that every woman should take in order to protect herself:

1.    Take the driver’s seat. Skip relying upon someone else to worry about retirement or financial planning. If you haven’t in the past, get involved in the conversations regarding your personal finances.

2.    Think emergencies. Every woman should have an emergency fund in place. Even those who feel secure in their career or relationship can, at times, find that financial emergencies arise. Whether it is an unexpected medical bill, a divorce, or some other complication, an emergency fund will help soften the blow.

3.    Take care of yourself.  Single women of working age, for example, may want to have disability insurance in place, since they may not have someone to fall back on if something prevents them from working. Long Term Care insurance can potentially help to reduce or eliminate having to depend on children or anyone else to take care of you if or when you can no longer take care of yourself.

4.    Be realistic. Have an honest conversation with yourself about what you can afford to spend and what you’re currently spending. If you spend more than you make and don’t save enough, poverty is the most likely outcome. Once you get control of your budget, make a plan to save for retirement because social security alone will not be enough to live comfortably.  

5.    Ask an advisor. Whether women can’t find the time, or are intimidated about the process, it’s important to take the time to find an adviser who you can feel you can trust and makes you feel comfortable. Try to find a certified financial planner, since they are held to higher industry standards in regards to education and experience. You can visit  to find one in your area.

“It is really important for women to take their own steps to help ensure their financial future,” added Fraelich. “The process can be very empowering and potentially rewarding as they realize the benefits and the sense of security that it can bring.”

Samantha offers securities and investment advisory services through NFP Securities, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Bernard R. Wolfe & Associates, Inc., has provided financial management strategies and investment services since 1981. They assist a wide range of private and corporate clients with everything from retirement planning and investments, to divorce and estate planning.

About Bernard R. Wolfe & Associates, Inc.

Bernard R. Wolfe & Associates, Inc., founded in 1981, provides experienced wealth management strategies and institutional investment services. The company is led by a team of certified financial planners, professionals who have over 65 years of combined experience in the field. The team provides professional financial planning guidance to a diverse range of personal and corporate clients. To learn more about Bernard R. Wolfe & Associates, Inc., visit the website at.

# # #

Richmond, Va. ( date ) - Filling a much-needed gap in professional childcare in Varina, the family-owned Tuckaway Child Development Centers announced it's newest location, Tuckaway-Varina, at the intersection of Midview and New Market Roads.

“Tuckaway has long been asked to come to Varina, and finally we are!” said Beverly Graubics, founder and owner. “The timing was right, and we found a beautiful, convenient location, where we’ve built a state-of-the-art facility.”  Graubics also stated that it is only 10 minutes from downtown Richmond.

Learning through play has been part of Tuckaway’s philosophy since opening their first center in 1971.  "We've always believed in educating the 'whole' child, both intellectually and physcially.  It's good to see that others are now recognizing the benefits of what we have always provided."  Graubics went on to say that "children should have space to explore.  They should not be restricted to just a piece of equipment or small area."  The center is on five acres, giving lots of space to run and play. There are also two in-ground pools on site with  swimming lessons and family events adding to the learning, exercise and fun.

The school will be led by Director Stacie Price. Price began at Tuckaway as a student, and continued as a volunteer and staff member. After graduating from Cambridge College in Boston, she taught in Richmond Public Schools for 5 years. She returned to Tuckaway as the Assistant Director of Tuckaway-Innsbrook, where her child is also a student

The Assistant Director of Tuckaway-Varina will be Ashley Gordon, who also grew up as a Tuckaway student.  Like Price, she continued as a volunteer and teacher while in high school and college. After graduating from Bridgewater College in Harrisonburg, she worked in Georgia, teaching special needs children before returning to Tuckaway.

Tuckaway-Varina is now enrolling and hiring for an expected early June opening.  "We are going to have special introductory rates for people who register early" said Graubics.  Although she stated it will be for a limited time. 

Information about upcoming open house dates, enrollment specials and employment can be found on their web site, , and on Tuckaway-Varina's Facebook page.

An important portrait by British artist Sir Joshua Reynolds of Col. Isaac Barré is one of two new acquisitions to Colonial Williamsburg’s collections showcased in the new exhibition, “More Than Meets the Eye: Maps and Prints of Early America.” Following acquisition of the painting, Colonial Williamsburg’s map curator Margaret Pritchard and associate curator Laura Barry identified the specific map shown in the painting. It was published in London in 1755 by Thomas Jefferys. A map book containing an imprint of the map also was acquired recently by Colonial Williamsburg and is displayed in the exhibition with the portrait.

“The Old Plantation: The Artist Revealed” at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum takes museum guests step-by-step through the process Susan Shames, decorative arts librarian at Colonial Williamsburg’s John D. Rockefeller Jr. Library, used to discover who painted the iconic 18th-century watercolor depicting a group of 12 slaves at their leisure. This important piece depicting slave life has been in the collection for more than 70 years but little was known of its creator or the subjects. “

During “Conversation with a Founding Father” at 12:30 p.m. in the Hennage Auditorium, guests can discuss issues that transcend time with Patrick Henry. A question-and-answer session follows. A free reservation is required.

Additionally, guests can explore the galleries through two special focus tours, “Decorative Arts Highlights” and “Introduction to Folk Art.” “Decorative Arts Highlights” features some of the masterworks on display such as paintings, ceramics, textiles, furniture and silver at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.  “Introduction to Folk Art” spotlights fascinating selections from the folk art collections at noon and 2 p.m.

The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg are located at 326 W. Francis St. in Williamsburg, Va., and will be open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Enter through the Public Hospital of 1773.

Programs and exhibitions at The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum are supported by the DeWitt Wallace Endowment Fund.  

For museum program information, telephone (757) 220-7724.

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Free admission also allows guests to explore Bassett Hall, the Williamsburg home of Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller Jr. The property was given to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation in 1979 by the Rockefeller family. First opened to the public 30 years ago, Bassett Hall underwent an extensive restoration and re-interpretation in 2002 that was funded by a gift from Abby O’Neill, granddaughter of John D. Rockefeller Jr., and her husband George.

Today, the interiors are much as they were when the Rockefellers lived there during the mid-1930s and 1940s to oversee the restoration of the Historic Area. Of particular note is Abby Aldrich Rockefeller’s eclectic collection of 125 pieces of folk art, including weather vanes, chalkware and schoolgirl art—pieces that Mrs. Rockefeller was among the first in the nation to collect.

Bassett Hall is located at 522 E. Francis St. and will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 14.

Guests also will enjoy free admission to the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg and Bassett Hall on Saturday, Aug. 13 and Dec. 10.

The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg are located at the intersection of Francis and South Henry Streets in Williamsburg, Va., and are entered through the . Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.  For museum program information, telephone (757) 220-7724.

What is 11 for 2011?

11 world-renowned leaders have been chosen for an upcoming leadership event to represent five basic principles of leadership.  The planning team reached out to find leaders who are

Voices of Influence,
Voices of Purpose,
Voices of Hope,
Voices of Service, and
Voices of Innovation

These 11 speakers will challenge you during one intense day of training.

Who Should Attend?
Entrepreneurs who want to move their business to the next level
Business owners who need to be re-energized, renewed and filled with hope and purpose
Managers who want to learn from influential business leaders and authors
New employees who are seeking role models and guidance from successful men and women who are leading in the arenas of sports, education, business, marketing and journalism

Why Should You Send Your Employees?
Employees will return to the office energized and full of purpose
Employees will have a written guidebook to help focus ideas for your organization; ask them to share with you and your team when they return
Employees will have opportunities to network with other organizations in the area
Until then, “like” us on facebook (Chick-Fil-A Leadercast Richmond) so we can utilize the time until May 6 to prepare mentally for this awesome experience: www.facebook.com/LeadercastRichmond

Why Simulcast?
The cost to send an employee from the Richmond area to Atlanta (transportation to/from the airport, airfare, one or two night’s lodging, plus event registration) is about $750.

We are pleased to offer contracted rights to this event in Richmond, VA, for a fraction of the cost.  This event will be held in the auditorium at Clover Hill Assembly of God at 12310 Bailey Bridge Road, Richmond, VA 23112.  You and/or your team will be seated at tables facing the massive screen.

How much would you pay …
… to get marketing ideas that are on the mind of guru Seth Godin?
… to be led by leadership strategist, John Maxwell?
… to be energized by the Big 12 Coach of the Year, Mack Brown?
… to renew your sense of purpose with author and business journalist, Suzy Welch?
… to be reminded about how one person can make a difference, by educator and author Erin Gruwell?
… to remember how overcoming obstacles is a part of life, with ABC’s Robin Roberts?
… to focus on living and working with a sense of service, from the quintessential Chairman of the Board, Muhtar Kent,
of the Coca Cola Company?
… to move purposefully on a path which reinforces your strengths, with sponsor Chick-Fil-A’s CEO, Dan Cathy?
… to evaluate your personal and professional budget choices with expert Dave Ramsay?
… to learn about innovation and changing the world, from Frans Johannson?
… to get your creative juices flowing, with Sir Ken Robinson?

$500?

$299?

How about $49?

At Chick Fil A’s Leadercast 2011, you will pay about $3.64 for time with each of these eleven life-changing experts.

You’ll return to your workplace energized, full of hope and purpose.  The creativity and influence will increase if you attend with co-workers.  The advantage to buying a table of six for your team is premium seating and visibility to your organization by showcasing all of your employees at one table.

A boxed lunch is provided by Chick-Fil-A with every purchased ticket!
Click the link below to reserve your ticket today! I hope to see you there…Tickets are now on sale at: www.leadercastrichmond.eventbrite.com

Linzy George

Clover Hill Assembly of God

804.739.7500, Ext 226

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World Yoga Day - January 30th from 9a- 5p. They will offer a wide range of yoga classes (including kid’s yoga) have guest lecturers on yoga philosophy, and provide info on their teacher training programs.

Proceeds to benefit UNICEF's Clean Water Drinking Program, designed to provide clean drinking water to children all over the world.

For interviews and more information please contact Helen Campbell at 804-515-YOGA.

Christy Clare Yeadon

Clear Channel Communications

WTVR~WRVA~WRVQ~WBTJ~WRXL~WRNL

Total Traffic Network~Virginia News Network

3245 Basie Road

Richmond, VA   23228

804-474-0083 Phone

804-612-6280 Facsimile

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY 

IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED

Public Invited to 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Public Input and Public Information Meeting held tonight: Updated information: Year-long open public process includes six stages 

Updated information: Maps of current Richmond Voter Districts and Richmond City Council members are attached: Numerous opportunities for Richmond Citizens provide input, learn more and participate: Richmond Citizens invited and encouraged to attend. New Redistricting Plan to be adopted by December 31, 2011  

(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A) – As announced on December 30, 2010, and again on January 11, 2011, the first of many 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Public Input and Public Information Meetings will be held tonight, January 14, 2011 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at the Richmond Southside Social Services Center, located at 4100 Hull Street in Richmond, Virginia. The full action schedule, which includes meeting dates, times and locations is listed below and attached (in pdf and jpg formats), as well as a map (in pdf and jpg formats) of the current Richmond Voter Districts and a map (in pdf and jpg formats) that identifies the areas (Richmond Voter Districts) served by current members of Richmond City Council. The process includes many opportunities for Richmond Citizens to provided input, learn more and participate. Richmond Citizens are invited and encouraged to attend all meetings.

We, as Americans, govern ourselves at the state, local and national level and choose (elect) fellow citizens to assist us with the ownership and operation of our government. In order to do this, we organize ourselves into geographical areas (districts) based on population and we use these "voter districts" to determine where we vote, which positions we vote for and who we wish to represent us. This self-governance includes deciding how tax monies are invested; what laws are needed; and, what types of services are provided and how they are managed.  

As populations shift over time, we redraw (redistrict) these areas to reflect population changes and help ensure everyone is represented as fairly as possible. Thus, every 10 years (decennially), we perform a United States Census to gather statistical information about ourselves and we use this (in accordance with state, local and federal guidelines) to update the boundary lines of our voting districts.

In 2011, Richmond will redraw (redistrict) the existing nine Richmond Voter District boundaries that we use to elect our local Richmond Elected Government Officials (which include: Members of Richmond City Council, Mayor of Richmond, Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees) in response to results of the 2010 U.S. Census. Adjustments to voting precincts and locations may also be made at this time. New Richmond Voter Districts are to be adopted by December 31, 2011.

The 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting will be a year-long open public process that will include a comprehensive array of public information communications and numerous opportunities for Richmond Citizens to learn more, provide input and participate, which will include many Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings, and Public Hearings. All Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to learn more about the process and to participate during each step of the way. Some of the many ways to engage in this process include:

1. Contacting the Richmond City Council Councilmember that represents you via phone, email, meeting or letter (contact information below)

2. Sending a letter to   Richmond City Council  

2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting

Richmond City Hall; 900 E. Broad St., Suite 305

Richmond, Virginia  23219

3. Attending Public Information Meetings, Council Public Meetings and Public Hearings to learn more, ask questions and make suggestions (dates, times and locations listed below) 

4. Visiting the 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting website to learn more (to be established soon)

5. Asking questions, learning more, and sending suggestions or information by email to

6. Sending suggestions or asking questions by sending a fax to 804.646.5468 

7. Learning more, asking questions and providing suggestions by calling 804.646.6052 

8. Signing up for information and Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meeting and Public Hearings email updates/alerts, at:

Six Stage Process _______________________________________________________________________

The 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting process will be organized into six stages. In the First Stage, Richmond City Council will choose what redistricting criteria are to be used, which will include Public Input and Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings. In the Second Stage they will vote to adopt their selected criteria, which will include Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings. In the Third Stage, Richmond will receive 2010 U.S. Census Data for Richmond. In the Fourth Stage, Council will use the criteria and Census Data to draft a 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Plan (This will probably include three proposals to choose from.), which will include Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings. In the Fifth Stage they will vote to adopt a Plan, which will include Public Hearings. New Richmond Voter Districts are to be adopted by December 31, 2011. In the Sixth Stage, they will seek approval (clearance) required from the United States of America Department of Justice per the U. S. National Voting Rights Act of 1965 ( –).

Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings

Throughout this six-stage process, Richmond City Council will hold a number of Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings to help provide information, discuss, receive input, and answer questions regarding the 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting. These meetings are free and open to the public and all Richmond Citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. All meeting locations are located on a GRTC bus line and are accessible by people with disabilities. The meetings will include the following topics, dates, times and locations (which are subject to change):

STAGE 1 – Choosing Richmond Redistricting Criteria

Richmond City Council will choose from among a number of criteria to decide which ones they want to use to base their redistricting changes to Richmond Voter Districts. In the first stage of the process they will choose the criteria. There will be a number of Public Information Meetings and Public Council meetings held with regard to this important part of the process.

Mandatory Redistricting Criteria that Council must use include the following:

Mandatory Redistricting Criteria

1. Population equality
2. Compactness
3. Contiguity
4. Avoidance of splits of census blocks

Council, at its discretion, may choose (or choose not to) add other Traditional Redistricting Criteria, which may include some, all, none and/or other types of examples of criteria listed below:

Other Traditional Redistricting Criteria

1. Avoidance of splits of voting precincts

2. Preservation of communities of interest

3. Preservation of shape of existing district

4. 4. Protection of incumbents and avoidance of pairing of incumbents

5. Political fairness or competitiveness

6. Voter convenience and effective administration of elections

The following Stage 1 Richmond City Council Public Information Meetings will be held to present and discuss the different redistricting criteria that Richmond City Council may choose to use to base their redistricting changes to Richmond Voter Districts:

Public Input and Pubic Information Meetings to Present and Discuss Redistricting Criteria

The following Stage 1 Richmond City Council Public Input and Public Information Meetings will be held to present, discuss and receive public input on the legal redistricting requirements and the different criteria that Council may choose from to base redistricting changes to Richmond Voter Districts:

Friday, January 14, 2011 Richmond Southside Social Services Center

6:00-7:30 p.m. 4100 Hull Street; Richmond, Virginia 23224

(Richmond’s Southside)

Monday, January 17, 2011 Richmond Police Department - Police Academy

6:00-7:30 p.m.                                  1202 W. Graham Road; Richmond, Virginia 23220

(Richmond’s Northside) 

Tuesday, January 18, 2011 Richmond Public Schools – Martin Luther King Jr.

6:00-7:30 p.m. Middle School

1000 Mosby Street; Richmond, Virginia 23223

(Richmond’s East End/Gateway)

Wed., January 19, 2011 Richmond Public Schools - Lucille Murray Brown

6:00-7:30 p.m. Middle School

6300 Jahnke Road; Richmond, Virginia 23225

(Southwest Richmond)

Thursday, January 20, 2011 Richmond Public Schools – Thomas Jefferson

6:00-7:30 p.m. High School

4100 West Grace Street; Richmond, Virginia 23230

(Richmond’s West End) 

Results of Richmond City Council Public Information Meetings presented to Council

Results of the Richmond City Council Public Information Meetings will be presented to Council during the following Public Council Informal Meeting:

Monday, January 24, 2011, 3:00–5:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Informal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street,

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Richmond City Council discussion of redistricting criteria (ADDED 1.11.11)

Richmond City Council will discuss the criteria they want to choose from during the following Public Richmond City Council Organizational Development Standing Committee Meeting:

Monday, February 7, 2011, 5:00–6:30 p.m.

Richmond City Council Organizational Development Standing Committee Meeting

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor Conference Room

900 E. Broad Street,

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Richmond City Council discussion of redistricting criteria

Richmond City Council will discuss the criteria they want to choose from during the following Public Council Informal Meeting:

Monday, February 14, 2011, 3:00–5:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Informal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Richmond City Council Introduction of Redistricting Criteria Resolution (ADDED 1.11.11)

Richmond City Council will introduce a Resolution that selects the criteria they want to choose from during the following Public Council Formal Meeting

Monday, February 14, 2011, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Formal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

STAGE 2 – Public Hearing and Adoption of Richmond Redistricting Criteria

Richmond City Council will hold the following Public Hearing and vote to officially adopt Richmond Redistricting Criteria during the following Richmond City Council Formal Meeting: 

Monday, February 28, 2011, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Formal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street,

Richmond, Virginia 23219

STAGE 3 – 2010 U.S. Census Data for Richmond received

Richmond City Council will receive the 2010 U.S. Census Data for Richmond and make them available to the public.

February or early March 2011

Data estimated to be received/available from U.S. Census Office in late February or early March 2011

STAGE 4 – Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings regarding Draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plan

Richmond City Council will use their officially adopted redistricting criteria and the 2010 U.S. Census Data to draft a 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Plan. This will probably include three proposals to choose from. As part of this process, Richmond City Council will hold Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings. These will include information regarding legal requirements for redistricting, criteria selected by Council, Richmond population shifts over the past 10 years and the approval (clearance) required from the United States of America Department of Justice per the U. S. National Voting Rights Act of 1965 ( –). 

Initial 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plans Submitted to Council

The Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Work Group will submit alternative 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Plans (possibly three) to Richmond City Council based on Council’s adopted criteria for Council’s review and guidance, at the following Public Council Meeting:

Monday, April 25, 2011; 3:00-5:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Informal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street,

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plan Submitted to Council

The Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Work Group will present a single draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Plan to Richmond City Council for their review and approval for it to be submitted to the public for comment, at the following Public Council Meeting:

Monday, May 23, 2011; 6:00– 8:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Formal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street,

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Public Information Meetings to Discuss

Draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plan

The following Richmond City Council Public Input and Public Information Meetings will be held to present the Draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Plan to the public to present, discuss and receive public input.

Monday, June 6, 2011 Richmond Police Department - Police Academy

6:00-7:30 p.m. 1202 W. Graham Road, Richmond, Virginia 23220

(Richmond’s Northside)

Tuesday, June 7, 2011 Richmond Public Schools - Lucille Murray Brown

6:00-7:30 p.m. Middle School

6300 Jahnke Road; Richmond, Virginia 23225

(Southwest Richmond)

Wed., June 8, 2011 Richmond Public Schools - Martin Luther King Jr.

6:00-7:30 p.m. Middle School

1000 Mosby Street; Richmond, Virginia 23223

(Richmond’s East End/Gateway)

Thursday, June 9, 2011 Richmond Public Schools – Thomas Jefferson

6:00-7:30 p.m. High School

4100 West Grace Street; Richmond, Virginia 23230

(Richmond’s West End) 

Friday, June 10, 2011 Richmond Southside Social Services Center

6:00-7:30 p.m. 4100 Hull Street; Richmond Virginia 23224

(Richmond’s Southside)

Richmond City Council Discussion of

Draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plan

Results of the Richmond City Council Public Information Meetings will be presented to Richmond City Council during the following Public Council Informal Meeting. During this time Council will discuss any modifications, if needed. 

Monday, June 13, 2011, 3:00–5:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Informal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street,

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Richmond City Council Review of

Draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plan

Richmond City Council will review and discuss proposed Draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Plan during the following Public Council Informal Meeting:

Monday, June 27, 2011, 3:00–5:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Informal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall. 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street,

Richmond, Virginia 23219

STAGE 5 - Public Hearing and Adoption of 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plan

Richmond City Council will hold a the following Public Hearing on the Draft 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plan and vote to officially adopt it during the following Public Richmond City Council Formal Meeting:

Monday, November 14, 2011, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Formal Meeting

Richmond City Council Chambers

Richmond City Hall, 2nd Floor, 900 E. Broad Street,

Richmond, Virginia 23219

STAGE 6 – Approval of the U. S. Department of Justice

Richmond City Council will send a copy of the adopted 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter Redistricting Plan (which will be provided to the public) to be approved (cleared) by the United States of America Department of Justice per the U. S. National Voting Rights Act of 1965 ( –).  

CONTACT For more information, please contact Steve Skinner, Council Public Information Manager, at 804.646.6052 (o); 937.1386 (m); or,

Background ___________________________________________________________________________

As Americans, we govern ourselves at the state, local and national level through a process known as Representative Democracy, in which we choose (elect) fellow citizens to assist us with the ownership and operation of our government. This self-governance includes deciding how tax monies are invested; what laws are needed; and, what types of services are provided and how they are managed.

As part of our self-governance, we organize ourselves into geographical areas (districts) based on population and use these "voter districts" to determine where we vote and which positions we vote for. As populations shift over time, we redraw (redistrict) these areas to reflect those changes and help ensure everyone is represented as fairly as possible. Thus, every 10 years (decennially) we perform a United States Census to gather statistical information about our population and we use this (in accordance with state, local and federal guidelines) to update the boundary lines of our voting districts. 

In 2011, Richmond City Council will redraw (redistrict) the existing nine Richmond Voter District boundaries that we use to elect our local Richmond Elected Government Officials in response to results of the 2010 U.S. Census. Adjustments to voting precincts and locations may also be made at this time.

The 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting will be a year-long open public process that will include a comprehensive array of public information communications and numerous opportunities for Richmond Citizens to learn more, provide input and participate, which will include many Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings, and Public Hearings. All Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to learn more about the process and to participate during each step of the way. Some of the many ways to engage in this process include:

1. Contacting the Richmond City Council Councilmember that represents you via phone, email, meeting or letter (contact information below)

2. Sending a letter to   Richmond City Council  

2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting

Richmond City Hall; 900 E. Broad St., Suite 305

Richmond, Virginia  23219

3. Attending Public Information Meetings, Council Public Meetings and Public Hearings to learn more, ask questions and make suggestions (dates, times and locations listed below) 

4. Visiting the 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting website to learn more (to be established soon)

5. Asking questions, learning more, and sending suggestions or information by email to

6. Sending suggestions or asking questions by sending a fax to 804.646.5468 

7. Learning more, asking questions and providing suggestions by calling 804.646.6052 

8. Signing up for information and Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meeting and Public Hearings email updates/alerts, at:

Six Stage Process _______________________________________________________________________

The 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting process will be organized into six stages. In the First Stage, Richmond City Council will choose what redistricting criteria are to be used, which will include Public Input and Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings. In the Second Stage they will vote to adopt their selected criteria, which will include Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings. In the Third Stage, Richmond will receive 2010 U.S. Census Data for Richmond. In the Fourth Stage, Council will use the criteria and Census Data to draft a 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Plan (This will probably include three proposals to choose from.), which will include Public Information Meetings, Public Council Meetings and Public Hearings. In the Fifth Stage they will vote to adopt a Plan, which will include Public Hearings. New Richmond Voter Districts are to be adopted by December 31, 2011. In the Sixth Stage, they will seek approval (clearance) required from the United States of America Department of Justice per the U. S. National Voting Rights Act of 1965 ( –).

STAGE 1 – Choosing Richmond Redistricting Criteria

Richmond City Council will choose from among a number of criteria to decide which ones they want to use to base their redistricting changes to Richmond Voter Districts. In the first stage of the process they will choose the criteria. There will be a number of Public Information Meetings and Public Council meetings held with regard to this important part of the process.

Mandatory Redistricting Criteria that Council must use include the following:

Mandatory Redistricting Criteria

1. Population equality
2. Compactness
3. Contiguity
4. Avoidance of splits of census blocks

Council, at its discretion, may choose (or choose not to) add other Traditional Redistricting Criteria, which may include some, all, none and/or other types of examples of criteria listed below:

Other Traditional Redistricting Criteria

1. Avoidance of splits of voting precincts

2. Preservation of communities of interest

3. Preservation of shape of existing district

4. 4. Protection of incumbents and avoidance of pairing of incumbents

5. Political fairness or competitiveness

6. Voter convenience and effective administration of elections

Richmond Elected Government Officials

We use our Richmond Voter Districts to elect the following positions that are established in the Richmond City Charter:

•   A Mayor (who must receive the most votes in at least 5 of the 9 Voter Districts and who serves a 4-year term)

•  Members of Richmond City Council (elected by district to serve 4-year terms)

•  Richmond Public Schools Board Trustees (elected by district to serve 4-year terms)

Virginia Constitutional Officers (Elected Government Officials)

Additional local positions we elect persons to include Virginia Constitutional Officers, which serve at the Richmond level but are established by the Virginia Constitution and are independent of local government. These positions are elected in Richmond citywide (not by district) but voting may be affected due to changes to voting precincts and locations, they include: 

•   A Richmond Sheriff (elected citywide to serve a 4-year term)

•   A Virginia Commonwealth’s Attorney of Richmond (elected citywide to serve a 4-year term)

•   A Richmond Clerk of the Court (elected citywide to serve an 8-year term)

•   A Richmond Treasurer (elected citywide to serve a 4-year term)

National and State Elected Government Officials

Voting for the following national and state positions may also be affected due to changes to Richmond voting precincts and locations (Note: Decennial redistricting of voter districts in which these positions are elected will be performed in 2011 by the Virginia General Assembly - ):

•   A President/Vice President of the United States of America (elected nationally to serve a 4-year term)

•   Members of the United States Senate (elected statewide to serve 6-year terms)

•   Members of the United States House of Representatives (elected by state districts to serve 2-year terms)

•   Members of the Virginia State Senate (elected by state districts to serve 4-year terms)

•   Members of the Virginia House of Delegates (elected by state districts to serve 2-year terms)

Member of the

2009–2012 RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL ______________________________

PRESIDENT (2009-2010 and 2011-2012)

The Honorable Kathy Graziano

Councilwoman, Richmond City Council - Southwest 4th District

804.320.2454 (office tel); 339.8393 (mobile)

(email)

VICE PRESIDENT (2009-2010 and 2011-2012)

The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson

Councilwoman, Richmond City Council - Gateway 6th District

804.646.5724 (office tel); 314.7658 (mobile)

(email)

West End 1st District

The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman

Richmond City Council - West End 1st District

804.357.6007 (mobile)

(email)

North Central 2nd District

The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman

Richmond City Council - North Central 2nd District

804.646.6532 (office tel); 690.0898 (mobile)

(email)

Northside 3rd District

The Honorable Christopher A. Hilbert, Councilman

Richmond City Council - Northside 3rd District

804.646.6055 (office tel) 306.0875 (mobile)

(email)

Central 5th District

The Honorable E. Martin Jewell, Councilman

Richmond City Council - Central 5th District

804.646.5724 (office tel); 332.3654 (mobile)

(email)

East End 7th District

The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman*

Richmond City Council - East End 7th District

804.646.3012 (office tel)

(email)

*Elected November 3, 2009 in special local election

Southside 8th District

The Honorable Reva M. Trammell, Councilwoman

Richmond City Council - Southside 8th District

804.646.6592 (office tel); 240.5050 (mobile)

(email)

South Central 9th District

The Honorable Douglas G. Conner, Jr., Councilman

Richmond City Council - South Central 9th District 

804.646.6592 (office tel); 512,0500 (mobile)

(email)

MAILING ADDRESS/WEBSITE

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL

Richmond City Hall - 900 East Broad Street, Suit 305

Richmond, Virginia 23219 - 804.646.7955

www.council.richmondva.gov (website)

Richmond City Council __________________________________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council is to represent citizens in creating and amending local laws, providing government policy and oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to creating a vibrant community that is a great place to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

CONTACT _______________________________________________________________________________

For more information and or updated to schedule, citizens should contact the Richmond City Council Councilmember that represents them or Steve Skinner, Council Public Information Manager, Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff, at 804.646.6052 (o); or,  

Although I used squash, zucchini, carrots, potatoes, and dried mix beans, choice of veggies and beans can be modified to preference and availability. With a variety of vegetables, potatoes, beans, and tomatoes, this soup is a nutritious and delicious meal for year-round goodness.

• 1 squash
• 1 zucchini
• 12 baby carrots
• 1 large potato
• 1 onion
• 6 cups of water
• 6 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• Mixed beans (15 oz. can, rinsed, or 8 oz. dried beans, softened)
• 14 oz. can tomatoes, crushed or whole or diced
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
• 4 large cloves garlic, peeled
• 1½ cups fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Chop squash, zucchini, carrots, potato, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Place in large pot with water and soy sauce and bring to boil. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Add beans and simmer for 5 more minutes.

Place tomatoes, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, basil leaves, and salt and pepper in blender. Process till smooth.

Mix the tomato sauce into the vegetable mixture and stir the soup till mixed and heated.