August 18 Newsletter: A changing Chamberlayne
Weather: Temperatures start to dip, with rain possible but unlikely. High of 82.
On this date in 1978, Virginia Tech professor Dewey McLean writes in an academic paper that humanity is creating conditions that will cause global temperatures to rise.
Today's newsletter sponsored by the YWCA:
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Sprout School is now enrolling! Ages 2 months–5 years. Affordable, inclusive, mixed-income early education and full-day childcare. Celebrating diversity and child-led learning every day! www.sproutschoolrva.org. |

On Chamberlayne Ave., rezoning and rapid transit raise worries about displacement
As Richmond discusses a second Pulse line, running north-south, residents are beginning to wonder how it will change a two-mile stretch on Richmond's Northside.
Unlike many concentrations of affordable units, the Chamberlayne housing is also fairly low density, but planners envision development will pick up once the bus route is set.
The Zoning Advisory Council is wrestling how to balance much-needed development with protecting the neighborhood's character, and ensuring existing residents aren't displaced in the process. Read more here.

RPS leaning towards no on tennis group’s proposal
A group’s request to build a $15-20 million indoor tennis complex on land owned by Richmond Public Schools is unlikely to move forward, some school board members are indicating. Read more here.

Is this Fan monument an ode to heroic efforts or an act of 'fictional self-glory'?
In 1781, British troops led by Benedict Arnold took Richmond, eight months before ultimately losing the war. Arnold's men set several buildings on fire, then left town.
Nearly 40 years later, the militia officer who was in charge during that dark day in Richmond history stepped forward with a heroic story that, after subsequent telling, credited him with Arnold’s “repulsion” from Richmond.
Shortly before his death, he placed a stone marker to ensure his name would not be lost to history. But how accurate is it? Read more here.


Debra Sims Fleisher emphasizes age is just a number when it comes to staying active
At age 75, Debra Sims Fleisher leads from 10 to 14 workout classes every week.
“My mission is that it's not your age, it's your attitude. You are never too old to start exercising,” she said. Read more here.
In other news
- 'Profs and Pints' series aims to make academia more accessible
- 1 killed, 3 hurt after shooting at Richmond apartments police say is known for 'after-hours parties' (CBS 6)
- Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway sells out for the first time in years (NASCAR)
The editor's desk
One last reminder that we'll be at Vasen Brewing tomorrow night marking the 10th anniversary of the UCI bike race. Exciting news: Local cycling star Ben King will be in attendance as well, sharing his memories of the week!
Michael Phillips, founding editor
mphillips@richmonder.org
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