Author: operations@endocollab.com

Proclaiming Grace Outreach is building a new food pantry in New Kent County for residents in need in New Kent and upper James City County.
The $1 million project broke ground in May and aims to open in November, replacing a small school trailer used since 2009.
The nonprofit still needs to raise $500,000 for the new building.
The pantry provides food and essentials, focusing on individuals not eligible for other assistance programs.
Proclaiming Grace Outreach also runs a thrift store, offers repairs, awards scholarships, and hosts its annual Jenna Bash Festival fundraiser on August 2.

A Williamsburg woman experiencing homelessness, Pamela Ellis, wrote a commentary responding to a previous letter, detailing her daily struggles including finding safe shelter and facing ordinances against sitting or camping in public, and appealed to the community for help and involvement in finding solutions like a summer shelter and safe overnight spaces.

James City County resident Page Brinkley wrote to the Gazette warning residents of the 1st Congressional District about a federal bill called the “Big Beautiful Bill.” Brinkley claims the bill, supported by Congressman Rob Wittman, would add trillions to the national debt through increased spending, unspecified budget cuts, and tax breaks for the wealthy. Brinkley argues this could harm programs, future generations, and the poor while benefiting the rich. The letter urges residents to research the bill’s potential impact.

Warhill High School graduated 320 seniors from the Class of 2025 Saturday at William & Mary’s Kaplan Arena. Principal Michele Newcomb encouraged graduates to celebrate small victories and embrace the journey rather than seeking instant success. Class speakers Ava Shird and Kendall Dix shared personal reflections on parting, supporting friends, and navigating life’s uncertainties like a game. The class collectively received 388 college acceptances, with 125 students earning over $3.3 million in scholarships and awards.

Lafayette High School’s Class of 2025 celebrated graduation Saturday at William & Mary’s Kaplan Arena. Over 300 students received diplomas, with 38 graduates awarded more than $2.5 million in scholarships. Speakers including valedictorian Lindsey Jones, salutatorians Lauren Peabody and Miles Thrash, and Principal Paul Rice addressed the class, reflecting on shared experiences and encouraging graduates to be curious and compassionate for the future.

Jamestown High School graduated 288 seniors Saturday morning at William & Mary’s Kaplan Arena in Williamsburg. Student speakers Zachary Matyjas and William Kerr encouraged the Class of 2025 to take risks and learn from failure. The graduating class included 70 students who earned over $3.6 million in scholarships and awards and two National Merit Scholarship finalists. Valedictorian John Yu and Salutatorian Bryn Carlson, both attending the University of Virginia, were recognized. Principal Howard Townsend and Superintendent Daniel Keever also addressed the graduates.

SENATOR KAINE VISITS NEW MARINE BARRACKS

Senator Tim Kaine toured the newly opened Marine Corps barracks at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown.
This was the first dignitary visit to the facility, which opened in late 2023.
The new barracks houses over 200 Marines in double-occupancy rooms with private bathrooms.
The facility includes amenities like a kitchen, laundry, recreation space, classrooms, and a lounge.
Kaine stressed that quality housing is vital for military retention and mental health.
He noted the need for similar barracks improvements across all military branches and locations.
Kaine also received a briefing and dined with Marines during his visit.

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Sen. Kaine Visits New Marine Barracks Aboard Naval Weapons Station Yorktown

VIRGINIA MAN COMPLETES POWER CHAIR RIDE FOR MS

Virginia resident Randall Pope finished a 250-mile power chair ride across the state.
He undertook the journey to raise awareness and funds for Multiple Sclerosis research.
Pope was diagnosed with MS in 1995 after serving in the Army.
His ride started at Christopher Newport University and concluded at the Pentagon on June 2.
The route included stops at several Virginia universities.
He received a celebratory welcome and a challenge coin upon arrival at the Pentagon.
Pope stood to salute a Navy officer he encountered there.
Future rides are planned for the coming years.
Money raised is intended to help paralyzed veterans in Virginia and North Carolina.
Donations are still being accepted via his fundraising page.

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Virginia Man Raising Money for MS Completes Power Chair Ride to Pentagon

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG RECONSTRUCTS HISTORIC AFRICAN BAPTIST MEETING HOUSE

Colonial Williamsburg will hold a groundbreaking for the African Baptist Meeting House reconstruction.
The event is part of Colonial Williamsburg’s Juneteenth celebration on June 19th at 9 a.m.
The site was the original location of the First Baptist Church, an early African American congregation.
It served as a vital community and sacred space for enslaved and free African Americans.
The reconstruction is a multi-year project in partnership with the First Baptist Church and Let Freedom Ring Foundation.
The meeting house was a place to gather, heal, and reaffirm community and humanity due to laws at the time.
The reconstructed building will illuminate the lives and importance of the people who worshipped there.
The groundbreaking ceremony will include music and reflections from the Descendant Community.
The reconstruction project is expected to be completed by 2026.
Other Juneteenth events like the Williamsburg Bray School opening and a sunrise service are also planned.

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Colonial Williamsburg to Host African Baptist Meeting House Groundbreaking

YORKTOWN MUSEUM CELEBRATES US ARMY’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown will host an event on Saturday, June 14, to honor the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
The day includes military-themed programs and musical performances by the Virginia Army National Guard 29th Infantry Division Band.
Activities feature drilling like a Continental soldier, a presentation on prisoner-of-war experiences, and an artillery salute.
An evening performance of “The American Soldier,” a one-man show based on real soldier stories, will take place at 7 p.m.
The show by Douglas Taurel highlights the sacrifices and challenges faced by military personnel.
June 14 also coincides with Flag Day, commemorating the adoption of the U.S. flag.

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American Revolution Museum at Yorktown to Salute 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army