Mugging on Laurel Street

A resident was robbed at gunpoint by two individuals around 12:30AM on November 29th while entering residence. She literally had about an 8 foot walk from her car parked on the street to the side door of the house. While putting her key in the door two men came up behind her and demanded money. They got all the cash on her (three dollars), as well as an old cell phone and her ID. She was not physically hurt in any way. This occured at the corner of Laurel and Idlewood.

The muggers were described as 2 black males. One was about 5’8, the other unknown. Both had dark hoodies and jeans. They had no facial hair and both had semi-automatic pistols. It all happened in about 30 seconds-1 minute or so. They took off around the corner down Laurel St. towards the river.

The police were called and reports were filed.

What if…and Oregon Hill and CSNT

Despite attrition, the neighborhood is regarded as a survivor. New houses stand among the historic, old ones, and the character, though always changing, remains. But residents are well aware that staying on top of the Hill carries risk and requires vigilance, whether it be from eminent domain, corrupt developers, or sudden, natural or man-made disaster.
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Does UofR care more about the environment than VCU?

Seems like it.

At University of Richmond, President Edward L. Ayers signed the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment. Contrast that with this from VCU’s Commonwealth Times: VCU receives ‘D-‘ for energy efficiency – Sustainable practices barely passing at VCU. One of the planned buildings that Ohlinger alludes to in the CT article is the proposed rec center.

Free Concert on Nov. 18- Carnegie Hall meets Oregon Hill

Internationally acclaimed baritone James C. Martin will give a free concert at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church on Sunday November 18th, at 6:00 pm. Among his many accomplishments, Mr. Martin has performed at venues such as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, and recently he was the featured soloist at the consecration of Bishop Shannon Johnston at the National Cathedral. Located at the corner of S. Laurel St. and Idlewood Ave. in the historic Oregon Hill neighborhood, St. Andrew’s is offering this free concert to the Richmond Community as the centerpiece of its “Music with Grace” 2007-2008 concert series. For more information call 648-7980 or visit www.standrewsec.org. St. Andrew’s welcomes you to come along with neighbors, family and friends!

Oregon Hill Celebrates Halloween

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This past Wedensday Oregon Hill celebrated Halloween. One aspect that is quickly becoming a tradition is the All Saints’ Halloween Parade. It went down Laurel Street complete with brass band, banners, bike puppets, and more. All Saints’ Theater Company had the help of the Bread and Puppet Theater this year.

Lots of trick or treaters and some splendid jack o’ lanterns (especially on Pine Street) also helped make this year’s Halloween memorable.

AARB Rubberstamps VCU Plans

The Commonwealth of Virginia Art and Architectectural Review Board met yesterday and approved VCU’s plans for demolishing the historic stables. VCU adjunct faculty member McDowell made the motion to demolish 917 Green Alley.

Not one member bothered to respond when an Oregon Hill neighborhood representative questioned how the a 270′ façade on Cherry Street can be compatible with the scale and massing of the small 20′ structures in the historic district, or why VCU did not consider the vacant parking lots on Broad and Grace as alternative sites.

The Divine Reality Comedy Circus in Monroe Park

Bread & Puppet Theater will present The Divine Reality Comedy Circus in Monroe Park at 3pm on Sunday, October 28th! THE DIVINE REALITY COMEDY CIRCUS features famous rats leaving a sinking ship, the triumph of the small farmer, smart advice on where to get your water, a celebratory ballet by a flock of roosters, the Rotten Idea Theater Company’s distillation of political issues and much more, all accompanied by the Bread & Puppet Circus Band.

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