As many confederate statues are being taken down in light of the Black Lives Matter movement, a statue of the former slave Jennie Dean will be built to honor her efforts that helped African Americans in the late 1800s.
The effort to erect the statue has been a 20-year undertaking. According to the Jeannie Dean Masterplan Update on the Manassas City website, the original plan for completion was supposed by the fall of 2019 if fundraising hit its goal before that date. But as donations are still needed, the completion of the project is further delayed until the donation goal is met. If interested in donating, please visit this link to contribute today to the project.
According to Manassas City article on “Who Was Jennie Dean?”, Jennie Dean was an inspirational woman of color who spent her early days as a slave. After the civil war, she helped train her people’s life skills and helped build churches that provided a safe community for African Americans to learn and thrive.
After raising money for decades, she managed to get Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth chartered and built. The school was eventually taken down, built again with new schools, that was renamed several times before leaving to what we know today as Jennie Dean Elementary School.
The planned statue has been over 20 years in the making. We previously reported in January of this year, that the campaign has reached over 73% of its donation goals as the sculptor, Chris Hill got to work on the bronze statue.
The project has increased its project total from needing $175,000 to now $350,000 as installation and enhanced landscaping charges, including connecting walking paths, adding a kiosk, amphitheater, and signage has been added. We have reported in the past that Manassas Councilwoman Michelle Davis-Younger stated that the city has donated over $125,000 to the campaign.
According to the Manassas City Memorial Campaign page, a generous donation from Corliss Udoema, who is the owner of Contract Solutions Inc., donated $10,000 to support the cause. According to Prince, the total amount of money raised for this project by stated above donors and anonymous community members is $149,000.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
