April 26 - Wyatt Durrette & Jim Ukrop "Why People Think Politics Is Rigged"

Sorry - We Are Sold Out!

Wyatt Durrette

Jim Ukrop

"Why People Think Politics Is Rigged"
And What We Can Do About It

There are always too many Democratic congressmen, too many Republican congressmen, and never enough US congressmen.  Author Unknown

That statement and the map above sum up why former legislator and gubernatorial candidate Wyatt Durrette and Jim Ukrop are working so hard for fair, non-partisan redistricting in Virginia.

At our April 26th breakfast, Wyatt and Jim will tell us why, after more than 30 years of participation in Virginia politics, they believe this is the time to take action on this matter. They are among the leaders of OneVirginia2021, a group focused ensuring that Virginia’s voters have a real choice when they go to the polls.

They will also give us an update on the very interesting pending court cases relating to the topic.

In the last General Assembly election, only 20 of the state’s 100 members were involved in competitive races and only TWO districts changed parties. Virginia ranks in the bottom five states in the fairness of its district boundaries.

OneVirginia2021 has challenged the legality of Virginia’s districting plan and a trial date has been set. Seven state senators have been ordered by the court to turn over documents that relate to how the lines were drawn and six have refused. They have charged with contempt of court for refusing to turn over the documents.

According to the Times-Dispatch, the senators are challenging whether they are protected from questioning in legal proceedings because it could “divert attention from their public duties”. 

The Crossroads Art Center
2016 Staples Mill Road

Our April venue continues our commitment to introducing encorepreneurs to parts of RVA they may not have seen before. This venue represents another "first time" location for encorepreneur, and we thank founder Jenni Kirby for her hospitality.

The Crossroads Art Center exhibits the work of emerging and established mid-Atlantic artists and promotes awareness and understanding of art forms, from crafts to fine art. The gallery represents more than 225 artists and is a cultural resource and an active participant in Richmond's thriving arts community.

In addition to more than 25,000 square feet of art exhibition space, Crossroads offers art classes and workshops to the general public and provides space rental for special events. Crossroads’ broad client base comprises private collectors, art and corporate consultants, architects, and interior designers, among others.