Laurel Street neighbor Charles Pool took these photos of a robot cutting the grass on the steep hill in Oregon Hill Park. The helpful staff said that this was the first hill on which they have tried out the robot.
Photo by Kenny Hamilton.
From press release:
Nearly 100 local youth are taking to the riverfront this summer to engage in a special program offered in partnership by the National Park Service, YMCA of Greater Richmond, James River Park System, James River Association, American Civil War Museum, and The Valentine. Kids in Kayaks empowers City of Richmond youth with the knowledge of natural and cultural landscapes, provides awareness and access to resources and skill development, and builds confidence and wellness through healthy recreation and community engagement.
YOU’RE INVITED! On Wednesday, July 24, you are invited to visit Historic Tredegar at 470 Tredegar Street from 10:00 am to 11:30 am to view the programs taking place, talk to those participating and planning, and learn more about Kids in Kayaks.
Over the course of six weeks, City of Richmond middle-school students are enjoying a taste of what downtown’s riverfront has to offer. Programs include water safety courses, lessons on watershed science, and discussions about the area’s history. We invite you to come see for yourself!
“The Richmond riverfront is a vital part of the city where we can tell the stories of our nation’s history, both cultural and environmental,” said Richmond National Battlefield Park Superintendent Doyle Sapp. “This valuable partnership allows us to showcase the rich cultural and natural history Richmond has to offer while teaching kids how to safely enjoy the riverfront.”
Do our voices count? I submitted my comments in a while ago. Many neighbors are suspicious given that this is partly sponsored by Venture Richmond and Dominion. Many neighbors think corporate voices may have more weight than citizens’, based on previous experiences. Still, a good time to make grassroots be heard.
From neighbor and Oregon Hill Neighborhood Association President Todd Woodson:
I just confirmed with workers in Monroe Park that they are spraying Roundup™ weed killer on the entire lawn. In 2015, the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer declared glyphosate a carcinogen. More than 50 cities and counties have banned the chemical. Many consider glyphosate a significant cause of bee deaths. The Monroe Park “Conservancy” is a horrible steward of the environment and their lease must be terminated. Enter the park at your own risk!
In other Monroe Park news, VCU representatives Catherine Howard and Brian Shaw have dropped off the Monroe Park Conservancy’s board and Vice Provost Dr Charles Klink and VCU planner Jeff Eastman have been tapped to replace them. Sadly, no news on adding more community representation, despite past promises to City Council.
The James River Park is holding a Belle Isle History Hike this Saturday from 11 am to 1 pm.
Here is some information:
Join us for a family friendly hike to one of Richmond’s historic gems, Belle Isle. Learn about the geologic and human history of the area and the role Richmond played in the development of our nation. Please bring water, a snack and good shoes.
Ages: 8 and Up
Price: $5
Location: Tredegar Parking Lot