Has Been Principal of Linwood Holton Elementary School for Thirteen Years Now

A REGIONAL MAGAZINE SERVING GREATER RICHMOND NORTH OF THE JAMES VOLUME 22 No 12 DECEMBER 2016

R David

Hudsonhas been principal of Linwood Holton Elementary School for thirteen years now. When he took over the reins of command, the school—though only a few years old at the time—was in a state of rapid decline. Within that first year, Mr. Hudson had turned it around, and in the intervening years has created one of the most desirable schools in the Richmond metropolitan area. Mr. Hudson supports his teachers, safeguards every student, responds immediately to the parents, plays an active role in the PTA. More than that, Mr. Hudson reaches out beyond the borders of the school, and engages himself with all of the Northside community. Today, he is not just the principal of this elementary school, he is, in so many ways, the actual center of Northside, a center that can, and will, hold. continued on page 14

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2 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 TABLE of CONTENTS

4 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR All in support of Holton Elementary School Principal David Hudson, these letters come from parents, former students, neighbors, elected officials, and others. Among the letter writers are Senator Tim Kaine and Anne Holton, Councilman Chris Hilbert, School Board Representative Jeff Bourne and many others. 14 COVER STORY David Hudson Principal of Linwood Holton Elementary School for thirteen years now, he supports his teachers, safeguards every student, responds immediately to the parents and plays an active role in the PTA. More than that, Mr. Hudson reaches out beyond the borders of the school, and engages himself with all of the Northside community. Today, he is not just the principal of this elementary school, he is, in so many ways, the actual center of Northside, a center that can, and will, hold. 20 BOOK REVIEW A Planet Scarred and Scared Jane Alexander is multi-talented. You may know her as an actress, but you may not be aware that she has a gift for writing as well. “Wild Things, Wild Places” is her passionate book about traveling around the world as an advocate for conservation 21 HIDDEN HISTORIES No Room at the Inn in Jim Crow America Imagine driving through a foreign land where you don’t know if you’ll be able to purchase food, gas or board for the night. Imagine there are individuals in this land who despise the way you look, your culture, your very presence and that these same individuals have formed secret societies to terrorize you, to burn your churches, or sometimes to hang you from an oak tree. Sixty years ago, this was not a mere thought experiment. For African-Americans navigating the United States, it was the day-to-day reality in the American South. 22 COLUMN Rainbow Minutes Human Rights Day, Mummers Primp, Acclaimed British Actor Sir John Gielgud

COVER PHOTO by REBECCA D’ANGELO

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For media kits and ad rate information, CATHERINE MCGUIGAN write or call: JUDD PROCTOR ® FRAN WITHROW NORTH OF THE JAMES MAGAZINE contributing photographers PO Box 9225 REBECCA D’ANGELO Richmond, VA 23227 editorial: [email protected] (804) 218-5265 advertising: [email protected] www.northofthejames.com December 2016 • NORTH of the JAMES magazine 3 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR In Support of David Hudson “I leave you love. I leave you hope. I leave As I stood up and prepared to leave, she We in Northside are so blessed to have ingly opened the school on many days and you the challenge of developing confi- cleared her throat and in her toughest of David Hudson at the helm of the Linwood times for civic association meetings and a dence in one another. I leave you a thirst tough-love voices, she told me that she Holton Elementary school. As former Hol- wide variety of community activities. He for education. I leave you a respect for had only one word for me. My hand on ton School parents and as longtime neigh- proactively offered the school as a physi- the uses of power. I leave you faith. I leave the doorknob, I paused and looked at her. bors and fans of the school, we have loved cal resource to residents after the recent you racial dignity. I leave you a desire to “Yes,” was all she said. watching Mr. Hudson in action over the storms which impacted the Northside, live harmoniously with your fellow man. years. His strong, steady leadership there although the damage did not meet the cri- I leave you, finally, a responsibility to our We both nodded. has been crucial to student success. He also teria for a FEMA emergency center. young people.” The next morning, I sat in Dr. Harold has helped engage the school so actively Mr. Hudson is the type of person that is The words above — The Last Will and Fitrer’s office on the 17th floor of City Hall. in our community. We were reminded of key to the success of any team – excellent Testament of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune He was in charge of Human Resources at this recently at Christmas on MacArthur, communicator, caring leader, compas- — hang in the rotunda at A. Linwood the time. I asked how the search for the which just wouldn’t be the same without sionate team player. He is the person I Holton Elementary School. Although Dr. Holton principal was going. He said he Mr. Hudson and the entire Holton School would always want to include on my team. Bethune, the noted educator and early civ- was still going through applications. I told family. Thank you Mr. Hudson! I endorse Mr. Hudson and wholeheartedly il rights warrior, died more than 60 years him that I realized I could not meddle in Affectionately, support him in his endeavors. his business, but asked that he simply hear ago, her words aptly describe the credo of Anne Holton and Tim Kaine Chris A. Hilbert, Holton’s principal, David Hudson. my words. Wisened from my visit with Mrs. Page the day before, I knew better Third District councilman When I think about the many gifts Mr. than mention her name. I write to share with you some brief Hudson has brought into the lives of our thoughts about my experiences, and more children and families, their teachers and I simply explained that from all that I could importantly, my daughter’s experience our entire community, I am humbled and see and learn about David Hudson, that I at Linwood Holton Elementary School. grateful. It seems that everywhere I go, thought he would be the perfect principal First, the school is second to none. There children, parents and teachers stop me for Holton Elementary School. I spent the are many things that make Holton El- and thank me for being the School Board next ten minutes talking about the school, ementary a wonderful place for children member who “found” Mr. Hudson and, the neighborhood and how sick and tired to learn. However there is a common miracle of miracles, managed to get him I was of losing good friends and neighbors denominator--David Hudson. Mr. Hud- assigned to Holton. to the counties once their children were son’s leadership is integral to the success of ready to start school. I asked him to please In a sense, I did “find” him. When it be- Holton. Not only has he made the school keep me posted and to appreciate that a place that values learning and diversity came apparent in 2004 that Holton would Holton’s next principal needed to under- be needing a new principal, I began vis- and family, but Mr. Hudson has also made stand the neighborhood and community, Holton an integral part of the community. iting elementary schools in the city and as well as the school. adjoining counties. I was sick and tired of The school is active in North Side Rich- losing friends and neighbors who would About a week later, I got a call from Dr. mond and North Side Richmond is active leave the city once their children came Fitrer and he told me they had found a in Holton. I knew this anecdotally, but of age to attend school. During my visits, principal for Holton. He could tell from came to experience Mr. Hudson’s leader- I never told anyone that I was basically his end that I was holding my breath on ship as a parent. His leadership inspires his shopping for a new principal. I was simply my end. “Breathe, Mrs. Wolf, breathe,” he teachers to extract the best out of ever stu- observing. said laughing. “The new principal is David dent at Holton. His leadership gives con- Hudson.” fidence to parents so that when we drop No matter how many schools I visited, I “Yes, yes, yes!” was all I could say. “Yes!” our daughter or son off they are safe and Mr. Hudson with Abbie Waters. kept coming back to Northside, to J.E.B. secure and learning in innovative ways. Stuart Elementary School, to its principal, Since that day, I have never once had to RPS is lucky to have Mr. Hudson. Iris Page, to be exact. When I first came on doubt the wisdom of bringing Mr. Hud- This is my personal experience with Mr. School Board, Stuart was the only school Jeff and Anedra Bourne, son to be Holton’s principal. I have wished David Hudson, principal of Linwood Hol- in the Third District, that was accredited. Holton parents on many occasions that we could clone ton Elementary School. When I finally worked up the courage to him because all elementary schools should (Jeff is the current Third District School ask Mrs. Page if she thought her assistant have an instructional leader of his caliber. Board representative) Okay, here we go. I am a skeptic by na- principal, David Hudson, was ready to He is a consummate professional, one that ture. I am sort of the “Doubting Thomas” be a principal, she told me we needed to is both professional and passionate, intel- kind of skeptic. I need to see things my- discuss the matter in her office. I felt like ligent and intuitive and tough enough to It has been my pleasure to work with Mr. self sometimes to believe them. So when, a little child in big trouble as she led me assemble a team of teachers who place the David Hudson, principal at Linwood Hol- I was on the Linwood Holton Elemen- to her office and shut the door. (Anyone needs of our children before all else. ton Elementary School since 2004. Mr. tary School playground with my four-year who knows Iris Page knows she doesn’t Hudson is a caring, dedicated educator who old little girl, Abbie Catherine Waters, in play). She sat down behind her desk, fold- But the real miracle of miracles was not has always exhibited the highest level of pro- 2006, and another mother suggested that ed her hands and looked me in the eyes. I, getting him assigned to Holton. The real fessionalism and ethics in our dealings. Linwood Holton Elementary School was of course, sat up a little straighter, folded miracle has been watching the love grow one of the best elementary schools ever, in between this quiet, soft-spoken man, the He is well-liked, and, more importantly, my hands in my lap and waited for her to respected by teachers, staff, parents and part, because of its principal, David Hud- speak. students, their families, the top-notch staff son, I internally said: “Yeah right, it’s prob- he assembled and how it has overflowed students. He has worked diligently to make Linwood Holton a shining exam- ably an okay school, but ‘best school ever’, I was prepared to hear her tell me I had no into our community. no way.” I have come to eat my words. business asking her about Mr. Hudson or ple of excellence in the Richmond Public any other RPS employee. She would have Thanks to Mr. Hudson’s courage and School System. He tirelessly promotes the The mother on the playground that day been right. School Board members are not open-door leadership, Holton is not sim- school and has been a strong partner in relayed a second-hand story (lawyers like charged with the day-to-day administra- ply a part of our Northside community, it the community. myself often refer to such stories as “hear- is the heart of our community. tion of a school or of employees. But she As a 2010 recipient of the REB Award for say”) to illustrate her point. I listened to didn’t lecture me about my job. She told Carol Wolf Distinguished Educational Leadership, her story as I watched my blonde-haired me that as a principal, she could not speak Former Third District School Board Mr. Hudson showed his selflessness by little one giggle and dance with joy as she “out of school” about her employees with representative donating the $15,000 monetary award to played under the big tree that shaded the anyone, not even a School Board member. the school to further develop the learning playground equipment. She said that one I nodded and apologized for overstepping. garden program. Mr. Hudson has will- day a little girl at the school (kindergarten age) was scared of school and wanted to 4 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 Established 1959 Professional Pet Grooming by The Barking Lot All Breeds Of Dogs And Cats www.fin-feather.com SHOP LOCALLY, BUY LOCALLY!

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December 2016 • NORTH of the JAMES magazine 5 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

“go home”, lots of tears, etc., and Mr. Hud- the reason for the rule. “ Then he thanked have Abbie in school every day and these at Holton, but he actively participated in son asked her to walk with him, then have me and explained that he also needed to notices –just bugged me. One email to Mr. it. He also wrote a personal poem in her lunch with him. He took her to lunch and support his staff when they are enforcing Hudson and they stopped. memory. That day a rainbow appeared over they sat together in his office, ate a sand- these safety rules. Okay then, I survived In early spring of 2011, Abbie, someone the school and the folks from the Bliley fu- wich and chatted. The little girl had lots of my trip to the principal’s office. I started to who loved doing her schoolwork, just gave neral home said that they had never seen questions about school. She got answers. make sure our whole family followed the up on doing any school work, saying it just anything like this celebration of life. While a They called the little girl’s mom together bell rule and I gained some respect for a was not the same. One mention of this to whole group of our heroes set up the event, and by the end of the lunch the little girl man whose first priority was to keep my Mr. Hudson and the teachers rallied to Mr. Hudson gave it his total support. told her mom that she wanted to go back child safe. bring school to Abbie. Students at Holton Then, two years later when the kids in Ab- to class. Okay, that was the story, and it The next two years my daughter Abbie made flash cards of the multiplication ta- bie’s class had their “moving on” ceremony seemed like a sweet story, but I was cau- thrived at Holton. She followed the school bles, one child came to the house so that in 5th grade, Mr. Hudson was kind enough tious because this was my child’s educa- pledge to a “T”, respect for others. She had the house would seem more like a class- to include Abbie with her class in the year- tion we were talking about, and I love my friends of all shapes, sizes, ethnicities, per- room, teachers visited Abbie and helped book. I was at the “moving on” ceremony kids more than life itself. Time passed, sonalities and cultures. Holton became her learn cursive…one of the things she to see Abbie’s friends move on to middle and shortly I needed to decide on a school Abbie’s life, her anchor. She had a way wanted to know how to do. school, when I was called on stage by Mr. for Abbie. about her that made many folks want to Hudson to see my daughter’s picture with I attended (with one of my dear friends-- hang out with her –sometimes being re- her class in the yearbook. This meant the Anne Fox) the Linwood Holton Elemen- ferred to as “Happy Abbie.” Throughout world to our friends and family and to me, tary Open House and heard the PTA pres- those two years, I would regularly hear Abbie’s mom. ident and the principal give a presentation. from Mr. Hudson at various events, some- Now let’s do another fast forward to the The PTA president said some pretty awe- thing like: “I can’t fix your problems, if you Spring of 2014, when our newly adopted some things about the school. Mr. Hudson don’t let me know they exist….so please daughter Melissza (adopted from Hun- said a lot of good things, and something let me know.” gary at age six, knowing only a handful in particular that stuck with me. He said Now let’s fast forward to the first week of English words) started at Holton two something similar to, “I want you all to of second grade for Abbie in 2009. After weeks after landing in the United States, know that if you will let me know of a being a perfectly healthy child, Abbie was and joined the kindergarten class in Mr. problem, I will try to fix it. If you don’t diagnosed with cancer: Stage IV Embryo- Garber’s room. She was scared, disrup- tell me, then I can’t fix it, so please let me nal Rhabdomyosarcoma. I found myself, tive and a very high maintenance child at know if you have any concerns. You have with Abbie (on the brink of tears) and her first. It literally took five of us (myself, Ms. my phone number, so call.” Seemed like a fabulous teacher LaTonya Oliver outside Oliver, Ms. Goldberg and two wonderful good school. I wasn’t sure whether he re- of Mr. Hudson’s office on the green couch 4th Grade students: Brynne Severns and ally wanted us to call him, but I kept his with a problem—a big one. I had heard Claire Sulanke) to get her out of the van number anyway. Little did I know that I tales of cancer kids being secretly shunned and into school one day. When she first ar- would be having any sort of problem that by some school systems across the country rived she would get scared and angry, pull would need “fixing.” However, shortly once they were diagnosed since their diag- hair and hit. One day she got in trouble for thereafter I did have my first one-on-one nosis and treatment causes a lot of fear and her actions and was taken to Mr. Hudson’s encounter with Mr. Hudson. a great deal of disruption for the rest of the Mr. Hudson after being hit with a pie office. Funny thing is, by enforcing the My first one-on-one encounter with Mr. students. My problem was that Linwood rules, treating her like any other student Hudson was when Abbie, at the begin- Holton Elementary School was Abbie’s who had done such a thing (i.e., by talk- ning of one of the first days of school, world. I was terrified of the cancer and so That same spring, in order to raise money ing to her as only a principal can do) he ran joyfully unaccompanied down the was Abbie. So along with LaTonya Oliver to help us take care of Abbie while she was helped turn her around. She did not know hallway before the bell rang—she loved we sat there waiting to see what would un- sick, the school came up with a pie throw- English, but she knew she was in trouble. school. I ran after her and was stopped fold. Mr. Hudson invited us into his office ing event to celebrate pi [π] Day. For a She was not suspended or anything like by one of Mr. Hudson’s office staff, since and he first calmed our cancer fears - tell- small fee the kids were allowed to throw a that, but his chat with her went a long way the bell had not rung yet. I had no time ing us that he had personal knowledge pie in the teachers’ and Mr. Hudson’s face. to make her feel like she belonged at the to explain and just kept running (think- of others who had just gone through the All of the money went to help with our school and her behavior changed. bills. Abbie was in the hospital the day the ing who are they to stop me from taking same type of thing and that they were do- About that same time, Melissza saw that care of my baby). A couple of minutes ing okay now. He encouraged Abbie to see pies were thrown. With the help of a wonderful teacher at the school, Abbie was ac- a baby tree had fallen down in front of the later, Mr. Hudson arrived. As you know, Holton as a safe haven, i.e., HER school, school and asked, in her own way, if she he is a tall, really well-dressed guy, and he even if she could only attend for a few min- tually able to watch Mr. Hudson get hit in the face with a pie on Skype. could go tell Mr. Hudson about it—drag- said something like, “Ms. Waters, after you utes a week because of chemo treatments. ging me by the hand to the principal’s office get your daughter safely in the classroom, She did just that, even leaving chemo just After the pie event, we made an appoint- (did I mention that I was an A student who I would like to see you in my office.” “Ee- in time to make it into the second grade ment with Mr. Hudson to pick up the fun- tried to avoid the principal at all cost). Evi- esh” I thought. I was actually being called class photo (they had just taken the photo draising money in the office. I contacted dently, Melissza and Mr. Hudson had built to the principal’s office---for real—and he when Abbie arrived and I believe Ms. Oli- Mr. Hudson to arrange a time and let him some type of mutual respect for each other knew my name. Holy crud, how do I get ver suggested that it be retaken as soon as know that Abbie would be turning nine during their chat and she somehow thought out of this. I was always an “A” student, Abbie walked in the door). Mr. Hudson the following week. Abbie and I walked he could fix the tree. I sat with her silently as never caused problems, and I was just try- stood with Abbie throughout the treat- over to the school hand in hand and, after she tried to explain her concern to him. She ing to take care of my four-year old. What ment, checking on her regularly. thanking Mr. Hudson, were escorted by used a lot of hand gestures and pointed at did I do wrong? Maybe I should just skip While Abbie was undergoing cancer him to the cafeteria where many of Abbie’s the fallen baby tree. Mr. Hudson looked out out of the school and go to work. Instead, treatments we started to receive truancy classmates sang “Happy Birthday” to her, the window with sincere concern. I then of- I told myself that I was going to tell this notices. You know the ones that tell you stood in line to give her cards, and many fered up some of my interpretation of what principal a thing or two. Well, I should not how much trouble you are in because your gave her hugs. The ear-to-ear smile on Ab- I thought she was saying. Then Mr. Hudson have rushed to judgment so fast. Come to child is not attending school regularly. bie’s face was priceless. This was the last thanked Melissza, and said he would try to find out the rule about entering before the These notices bugged me and in between time that Abbie saw many of these chil- work on it. The next day, the tree was fixed. bell was part of an important system set up Abbie’s doctor and chemo appointments dren, as she died the following week. The Melissza saw it and smiled really big, and to keep the kid’s safe and Mr. Hudson ex- I tried pretty hard to get them to stop by ups and downs of her treatment took its said two words with a strong Hungarian ac- plained that his main priority was to keep calling the phone number written on the toll, and yes, what others had said is true, cent: “Mister Hudson.” the kids safe. He actually appeared incred- Mr. Hudson joined many of her class- notices. I explained to the folks that an- In 2015, Melissza still had some problems ibly serious about the safety issue. Before swered the phone that my child had cancer mates, teachers and our friends and family I could even begin to start yelling at him to be at her bedside the very day she went getting ready for school in the mornings, and that we had a home school instructor. but there was no need for five people to he said, “I totally understand why you did I explained that we tried to get her to the to heaven. Not easy for anyone. what you did---and I am not saying that help her out of the van. I mentioned this school as often as possible. The notices did After Abbie died, Mr. Hudson, not only al- problem to Mr. Hudson during drop-off it was wrong, just wanted you to know not stop. I wanted nothing more than to lowed us to have Abbie’s memorial service

6 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 Thanks To Everyone Who Attended And Everyone Involved, Making This The Best Christmas On MacArtur Ever!

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And Thanks To Principal David Hudson, Jonathan The Juggler, Main Stage Productions And Lee Johnson, David Schieferstein, Teri Phipps, Saint Andrew’s Legion Pipes & Drums, The Holton Band, The Marching Bands Of John Marshall And Varina High, Bill Bevins, Santa, Ring Dog Rescue, ACCA Shriners, Holton Safety Patrols, Indian Princesses Cayuga Tribe And Mighty Waccamaws, Still Runnin’ Magazine Car Club, Parade King & Queen, Volunteers, Richmond First Responders, Vendors, Exhibitors And Everyone Else! December 2016 • NORTH of the JAMES magazine 7 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

one morning. That very day he had a talk Since the moment I interviewed at Lin- Those seven years helped me grow and you do so. Mr. Hudson’s belief in all that with Melissza, and things are much better wood Holton, I knew I was going to love prepared me for my future and Mr. Hud- is possible when we strive towards great- now. He kept reminding me, in front of working for Mr. Hudson. From his organ- son played a big part in that preparation. I ness has carried us all when we felt doubt. Melissza, to let him know if my child had ization of weekly agendas to his weekly am thankful that he was never soft on me He acts with integrity and professionalism. any problems and asked if I still had his grade level meetings where teachers can but always fair. From his daily commitment of checking phone number. I did. share concerns, these were things I had Jefferson Miles, in on each class, welcoming visitors, and During the Spring/Summer of 2016, at the never experienced at other schools. Mr. 9th grade, Community High School, staying late for community meetings, to end of the school year, Melissza wanted Hudson exhibits the definition of profes- former Holton student his going above and beyond to assure that to be on the Ginter Park swim team and sionalism. He is kind, caring, and most every child is cared for in a way that shapes promised to go to the practices. We signed of all fair. He listens to the children and futures, Mr. Hudson has been there. Thank her up and after the first practice, she he KNOWS them. I have never been in I am a resident of Bellevue, a parent and you Mr. Hudson for all you do for the Hol- didn’t want to do it anymore. I mentioned a school where a principal knows every a teacher at Holton. I am grateful for all ton Elementary School community! it to Mr. Hudson as an aside and he said, single child by name and how he or she is Mr. Hudson has done for my family, my Amy Harr, “I’ll go some morning to watch her and doing both academically and socially, it’s neighbors, my colleagues, and my stu- Holton teacher and parent maybe that will help.” I said that the prac- incredible. He does the same thing with dents. I have known Mr. Hudson for 13 tices were at seven a.m. and most of them his staff, he listens to us and he knows years. He has always impressed me as a were after the school year had finished. He us as professionals. I have the utmost re- man who has a great vision for Holton I thought Mr. Hudson was scary. He said: “That’s okay, just send me the sched- spect and appreciation for everything Mr. Elementary School. I remember Holton knows how to give you a very, very scary ule.” Well guess what, he actually showed Hudson does for the students and staff at before he arrived as the principal. At that look so you will behave. Even though he up for not just one, but two summer swim Linwood Holton. I hope that I never have time the school faced many challenges could be scary to make kids behave, he practices at 7:00 a.m. (he is not paid for to work under the guidance of any other blocking it from its potential. It was Mr. was very nice when we followed direc- this…he did this because he cares). principal. Hudson who knocked down those bar- tions and when we went to see him for Kylee York, riers and provided the kind of leader- good reasons. Take a gander at the look on Melissza’s ship to the teachers, parents, community face…and yes Melissza swam well that day Holton teacher My favorite memories are whenever he members, and students that united us and asked me for a favor because he trusted me (and so did a few other Holton kids that made us stronger. By bringing people to- were at the practice). Was it a complete and I respected him. I liked to help him gether to appreciate differing perspectives, get papers for announcements because turnaround? No. Melissza still didn’t care talents and needs, we could all have a place for practices, but she did attend them and I knew that he couldn’t trust just anyone to contribute our strengths and become an with even a simple task like that. swam well enough to be invited to attend amazing community for learning. Champs--the end of the year competition Now that I am a sixth grader I appreciate for swimmers who had done well at the Mr. Hudson has given so much to make that he looked scary because it makes kids swim meets. great things happen at Holton. I believe think about doing the right thing. I now his secret to success is how he opens his This year, Melissza had a panic attack in know why he tries to seem scary is that he door to everyone and listens to ideas and was helping us in learning manners, and school based on things that occurred before concerns. He takes action to right wrongs, she was adopted and she was scared that she respecting other people which will help us solve problems, and find resources to make in the future to get jobs. could be hurt. Mr. Hudson, once again was good things happen. He supports growth there. He took her to the office and from in everyone! Teachers become masters Mr. Hudson isn’t actually scary. He’s nice what I understand, he explained to her how of their craft, students achieve academi- and good at his job. He is very intelligent the school is set up to keep her safe. cally and socially, parents are empowered and has a great fashion sense. I am glad Bottom line, I was a skeptic, but I have to make a difference. The focus is always that he was my principal for seven years. If seen, firsthand, and not just through word guided by what is best for the children. He I had any other principal who would just of mouth, the impact this incredible hu- stands up strong for the belief that quality call my parents, or suspend me for little man being has had on our family. I am education provides students opportunities things - then I wouldn’t have learned all no longer a skeptic. Our family has been to define themselves as good citizens with the little habits that are helpful to me now very blessed. Mr. Hudson is certainly not bright futures. in middle school. the only hero in our lives, we have many, Mr. Hudson with alumnus Jefferson Miles. Mr. Hudson holds high expectations. You Lorelei Miles, but he is definitely one of them. In this know that feeling you get when you dis- 6th grade, Binford Middle School, former season of Thanksgiving, we are so thank- cover someone who believes in you? Mr. Holton student ful for the families of Northside and that I was a student at Linwood Holton Ele- Hudson has given that empowerment to Mr. Hudson is the principal of Linwood mentary School for seven years. Through- hundreds! We work harder because he Mr. Hudson is head and shoulders above Holton Elementary School. out those seven years Mr. Hudson always works so hard. We step up to volunteer, had my back. No matter what was hap- his contemporaries. Holton stands out Mary Ann Waters, collaborate, inform, and provide a univer- from all the other schools. Staff and stu- Holton parent pening outside or in school he was always sal design for learning. We go above and there for me whenever I needed him. dents are polite and greet you with a smile. beyond in our commitment to the stu- Holton passes the SOL’S. Mr. Hudson There was never a time when Mr. Hudson dents, and contribute to our school com- walks the children to their cars as they David Hudson is a LIFE CHANGER. was unfair. Whenever I got into trouble munity because he inspires us to do so. Having been in Northside for 23 years, leave school at night. The parents love for doing anything I wasn’t supposed to, Students learn kindness and respect along this man. One can hear one hundred dif- I can tell you that he has transformed he would ask me some questions. First with an academic growth mind-set that is not only Linwood Holton, but the entire ferent stories on how Mr. Hudson has af- he asked, “What did you do wrong?” Fol- the foundation to the rest of their educa- fected their student and their family. My Northside community. Words can’t ad- lowed by, “Do you know why it’s wrong?” tional careers. equately express just how important he grandson attended Holton and continues And then, “What do you think we should I have witnessed this first hand for my own to achieve success. We need more prin- is, and how huge his impact has been and do to prevent you from doing this again?” continues to be. He’s a hero to all of us, and children, my neighbors, and my students. cipals like Mr. Hudson and more schools our lives are infinitely better because of I learned that if you can’t work together with He encouraged me to get my Master’s de- like Holton. Let’s get a Mr. Hudson or Hol- him. I’m so thankful that he has been such whoever is in charge when things go wrong, gree in Special Education. He showed my ton PLAN to improve Richmond Public a big part of our lives, and I don’t think I you’ll never be able to work with them to oldest daughter how to be brave in the face Schools. could ever repay him for what he’s given to make sure things go right. Mr. Hudson was of her dyslexia. He praised her for standing H. Rakestraw, my family. Hands down the most amazing empathetic and a natural leader. Whenever up for others with her kindness and influ- Bellevue resident and influential person in my life. there were bigger problems, Mr. Hudson ence on her peers. He saw a leader in my would host a school meeting in the cafeteria son and recognized his achievements in a Charles Arthur, for us to all work it out together. That was a way that motivated him to excel. He asked I have known Mr. David Hudson for 5 Holton parent good way to unite everyone as a school. It my youngest to self-advocate, teaching her years as the Principal at my son’s school. taught me patience and helped me keep my valuable life lessons about being true to her- From the first time we met at orientation, mouth shut at times. self and the opportunities that follow when he has proven himself to be completely 8 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 Wonderful food, best Wonderfulbrunch in Richmond. food, best brunch – Urban in SpoonRichmond. – Urban Spoon Serving locally farmed THANKS TO produce, poultry, and Servingmeat with locally vegetarian, farmed EVERYONE WHO MADE produce,vegan, & poultry, gluten free and meatoptions with available.vegetarian, THIS YEAR’S CHRISTMAS Wonderful food, best OPENvegan, 11am & -10pmgluten Mon-Fri free brunch9am - 10pmin Richmond. Sat & Sun ON MACARTHUR THE BEST options – Urban Spoon available. DINE IN • TAKE OUT

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December 2016 • NORTH of the JAMES magazine 9 The Honorable LETTERS Chris A. dedicated to not only an amazing educa- treks to and from UVA were necessary tion but, more importantly to the quality for treatment, Mr. Hudson made sure we Northside 3rd Voter District of care our children receive at his school. knew if we needed to hit the road to Char- He is always available to deal with all con- lottesville early to make an appointment, Hilbert cerns almost immediately when you reach or needed to stay late, our kids were wel- out to him. He arrives early and stays late. come to “hang” in his office. Councilman, Richmond City Council 2013 MEETINGS He makes everyone feel heard and valued When in middle school, and for a com- Northside 3rd Voter District from administrative staff to teachers to munity service, I suggested to my son we parents and to students. David Hudson is take doughnuts to the local firehouse and Northside 3rd Voter District tireless in his commitment to all the things police station for “Hot Doughnuts for He- that matter to keeping our children safe roes Day,” my son made it clear...the hero and learning. He creates an environment he wanted to honor was Principal Hudson. that feels open to all who come there. It always strikes me how important he makes The students and teachers alike (and par- 2017 MEETINGS ents, too) rise to the lofty expectations he everyone feel who comes to him with a All Northside 3rd Voter District Residents invited to attend! problem and how much he lifts up the sets. Our twins entered two different RPS 4th Thursday of each month January 27, 2017 children’s sense of self. We are so blessed specialty high schools this fall. While I would like to take some “credit” for the Locations vary to have someone like David Hudson in February 24, 2017 incredible students and young people 6:00-8:00 p.m. our community. March 23, 2017 they’ve become, we’d be remiss and naive Sonni Gittelman, to assume that a large part of our children’s April 27, 2017 Holton parent success wasn’t directly attributable to Prin- May 25, 2017 cipal David Hudson.

June 22, 2017 Principal Hudson is a man of integrity, July 27, 2017 honor, compassion, and commitment to August 24, 2017 education.

CONTACT September 28, 2017 We Northside families owe him an im- 804.646.6055 (tel) or email October 26, 2017 measurable debt of gratitude. [email protected] November-December TBA Cheryl Lage, Holton parent

Goals, Updates & AccomplishmentsRichmond, Virginia We love you Mr. Hudson. You are an amazing man. I remember being in the pickup lane and you know every parent or MAIN STREET LAW grandparent’s name and who they came to pick up. Plus all the naughty kids are scared Principal David Hudson with twins of you. Better said, you are highly revered. John G LaFratta Darren and Sarah Lage at their moving Scotta Barsella, on ceremony in 2013. Northside resident Criminal Law Traffic Violations Think it’s time for some parents of stu- Becoming divorced is a terrible feeling. dents who’ve attended the incredible RPS Becoming divorced with children was Estate Planning elementary school, Linwood Holton, to even more upsetting for me. In the first Family Law chime in with first-hand knowledge about months I questioned every choice for fear Paul’s Place the man that is David Hudson. of what would happen to our children. EDUCATION: Our boy-girl twins attended Linwood Hol- Would they be scarred? Would they devel- ton Elementary in Richmond’s Northside op resentments against us? Would they be University of Richmond, Antique Lighting able to build healthy relationships? Would TC Williams School of Law, JD and Furniture from kindergarten through 5th grade. From the day we were invited to “shadow” while their education suffer? University of Richmond, Robins 1009 Overbrook Rd., in preschool, to the day we wept openly In our case, we separated in the summer. School of Business, MBA Richmond, VA 23220 upon “moving on,” Principal Hudson was The children had a small window of ad- North Carolina State clearly at the helm of a loving, supportive, justment time before returning to school. University, BA Thursday-Saturday 9-5pm nurturing elementary school community. Since they were both still in elementary Sunday 12-5pm When in their early grade-school years, school, however, I felt a need to speak to their teachers. I met with the teachers and PROF ESSIONA L Closed Monday-Wednesday my husband (our twins’ Daddy) had a ASSOCIATIONS AND recurrence of cancer, both of their classes- found myself embarrassingly weepy. After MEMBERSHIPS: Architectural Salvage for --under Principal Hudson’s leadership- leaving the last classroom, I ran into their Repairs and Renovation --rallied with posters and cards and well- principal, David Hudson. Richmond Criminal Bar Iron Gates and Fencing wishes lifting our children’s spirits and Mr. Hudson had been part of our lives for Association confidence---and ours. five years at that point. My son had been Bricks, Slate and Stone Virginia Bar Association When a tree demolished our home dur- so impressed by him in pre-kindergarten ing Hurricane Irene (we’re still often a that he started dressing like him. His Richmond Juvenile Bar Lighting Repairs and school pictures for multiple years featured Association highlight on local pre-storm news foot- Restoration age), Principal Hudson called THE NEXT a dress jacket and one year he even sported Caroline County Bar DAY (a Sunday) gave us his personal cell the Hudson Classic bowtie. Mr. Hudson Association 804-228-9999 number to make use of for any and every managed a fine balance between author- possible “need” ---from taking our kids on ity figure and model to be emulated. We [email protected] www.paulsplaceonline.com an outing to bringing his chain saw and considered him the perfect person to be in email [email protected] helping hands-on. charge of our children’s school. 804.355.1800 When my husband’s cancer recurred On that tearful day Mr. Hudson deftly in- AGAIN in later elementary years, and quired after my well-being without being

10 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 nosy. We had become particularly close with kind words, little jokes and a wave. three years before when I tripped and This September we had our first First broke my hand in front of the school. Mr Day of school without David Hudson. Hudson sat on the ground with me, his I’ll admit it. I shed a little tear. For a dec- perfect suit in the dust, so he could hold ade I felt confident that my children had my good hand while we waited for help to excellent teachers, a clean school, safety arrive. That day he kept me from vomiting and well-being. Their elementary school from shock by chatting gently. On this day, was a safe and happy place for us all. The he soothed my fears and dried my tears. children had many teachers and staff they Mr. Hudson reminded me that his staff adored. My daughter made friends with had significant experience in working with the nurse one particularly germy year. My children undergoing times of upheaval. son earned a flattering nickname from the He shared his confidence that my husband janitor that he still has to this day. They and I would handle the coming months in both had multiple favorite teachers. But ways that would not hurt the children. He the greatest influence of all came from the pointed out that what children need most principal himself, David Hudson. is unselfish and reliable love. He said he Needless to say, my children were not had nothing but confidence that we would scarred by the divorce. They do well in raise our children well as divorced co-par- school and have close friendships. They ents, because we were “Good people”. are loving and delightful people. All the This is one of Mr. Hudson’s kind, under- hopeful things David Hudson foresaw stated compliments he gives to many, but coming to pass did. I can never thank him 4030 MACARTHUR AVENUE ★ 266-3167 it is always from his heart. I have never enough for all he has done for our family. taken it for granted. I’ve heard him say But, oh do I try. NOW SERVING Monday thru Saturday it to others, and we all respond with the 9 am to Midnight Alane Cameron Miles, Sunday 10 am to 3 same grateful smile. He doesn’t have to be Holton parent SUNDAY so kind to us parents, but he takes the time to get to know us and reach out. Parenting BRUNCH isn’t easy. The thoughtful words of David Mr. Hudson is Linwood Holton Elemen- Hudson have always made a difference in tary School. From the very first day we my parenting life. met him through the past eight years he But they are more than just words. Within has supported and encouraged us. He a week of my meeting with the teach- runs a tight ship, expects a lot, but gives ers and Mr. Hudson, my son came home even more. He has supported the stu- from school saying he had been called dents and created unique opportunities into the principal’s office. He said he’d felt for them, gives everyone his personal cell some trepidation at first but when he ar- phone to call any time, answers emails at rived, Mr. Hudson sat him down and gen- ungodly hours, and opens the building for tly asked how he was doing. I don’t know community events. But the greatest sup- the full extent of that conversation, but it port from him came in the form of the made a lasting impression on my son. Dandelion Gardens. At the end of their talk, Mr. Hudson gave As parents of kindergartners, we proposed my son his card with his cell phone num- the concept of the gardens and he threw ber on it. He said that whenever my son his full weight behind them, helping us Rob Fox is an authorized licensed insurance agent for Anthem Blue Cross had trouble or needed help, he could call achieve more than we could imagine, & Blue Shield. Virginia license number: 7922627 any time. My son showed it to me proudly, and faster than we could believe. We had Where Virginians come for their Anthem Blue a bit in awe that Mr. Hudson would reach known him less than a year, yet he still out to him. I kept it to myself that Mr. embraced our efforts and continues to do Cross and Blue Shield Medicare Supplement & Hudson made sure I had a card for the so today. He spoke at City Council and in Senior Health Insurance needs same reasons. front of the School Board. He donated our first asset, the picnic benches, just so we 6924 Lakeside Ave | Suite 205 A | Richmond, VA | 23228 My son kept that card on his bedside ta- could have something tangible to see and ble until he graduated from elementary believe in to make it happen. WWW.THEINSURANCEFOX.COM school. I believe it was the single kindest gesture anyone could have given that little The gardens grew and Mr. Hudson was Locally 804-262-5028 rightfully recognized as R.E.B. Principal of boy at that time. To my son it was a sign of Toll-Free 800-390-8457 compassion, of respect, and of a genuine the year. We named the Golden Hammer care for our family. He never used it, but it award winning classroom structure after [email protected] him, ‘The Hudson House’. Our journey was a comfort knowing someone had his Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield does not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on back if needed. I, however, used mine. did not stop there as the gardens gained greater recognition that led us to the the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in its health programs and activities. AT- As the years passed, Mr. Hudson cared White House Kitchen Gardens. In Octo- TENTION: If you speak a language other than English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-800-916-2583 (TTY 711). ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición ser- for my daughter after my son graduated. ber 2013 he escorted five 5th Grade stu- I work with hospice and my ex-husband is vicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-916-2583 (TTY 711). 주의: 한국어를 사용하시 dents, Ellen Shepard and myself to Wash- 는 경우, 언어 지원 서비스를 무료로 이용하실 수 있습니다. 1-800-916-2583 (TTY 711) 번 a trial lawyer which meant that sometimes ington, DC to harvest those gardens with 으로 전화해 주십시오. This policy has exclusions, limitations and terms under which the policy may we were late for pickup due to emergency Michelle Obama. It was one of our most be continued in force or discontinued. For costs and complete details of coverage, please contact your work circumstances. Mr. Hudson would memorable events ever that we still cannot agent or the health plan. Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the federal Medi- always be sitting, chatting with my daugh- believe happened. care program. The purpose of this communication is the solicitation of insurance. Contact will be made ter when I arrived. I would apologize by an insurance agent or insurance company. Anthem Health Plans of Virginia, Inc. trades as Anthem profusely and he would say that it was his Just this October, Hands On came out to Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, and its service area is all of Virginia except for the City of Fair- pleasure to be with her. He would thank help clean up the gardens for Hands On fax, the Town of Vienna, and the area east of State Route 123. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross me for the work I do. He would check Day. Mr. Hudson arrived early to open the and Blue Shield Association. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The on me to make sure I wasn’t too burnt building and proceeded to grab a pitchfork Blue Cross and Blue Shield symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. out. 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12 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 December 2016 • NORTH of the JAMES magazine 13 Much like the president of a country, population was under three hundred, well below half the principal of a school sets the tone for the body they govern, and I can think of of what it is today. Almost overnight, Mr. Hudson David Hudsonturned it around. no school administrator in the Richmond metro area who better reflects American “The first thing that I wanted to do was to hear what values, and who rules with the compassion and understanding our nation is known the teachers and the parents had to say about the for round the world. All are welcome at Linwood Holton Elementary School under school, and ways they would improve it,” he says. “Then I thought about things that I believe make a the watchful guidance of David Hudson, and neither race, religion, national origin, successful school. One of those things is school activ- sexual orientation, nor gender is ever used as a criteria for acceptance. Jews, atheists, ities.” During that first year, Mr. Hudson created five after-school enrichment programs. Today, there are Christians, agnostics, and Muslims comprise the student body here, and never are more than a hundred such activities, including some their beliefs held in contempt. And on the Northside there are sons and daughters that are offered during vacation as summer camps. of immigrants, Latinos and Latinas, blacks, whites, you name it. None are ever criti- He remembers those early days at Holton very clearly. “These kids were really out of control, and I had to cized for who they are, but rather praised for their uniqueness and cultural diversity, let them know there were consequences,” Mr. Hud- and how they enrich the school. Every boy who attends Holton knows that under son says. “And I had to let some of the staff know they no circumstances can he ever touch a girl, and there is no tolerance for locker room couldn’t act the way they acted.” banter. This too: no child at Holton would ever consider mocking a classmate with But Mr. Hudson was called on his sternness by a woman he has come to have the deepest respect for. a disability of any kind. To the citizens of this elementary school, that behavior is ut- “My very first PTA president Yvette Contie,” he says. terly abhorrent. As is bullying of any kind. The children at Holton are taught never “I would give my life to defend her. I respect her because she’s going to tell me like it is. I used to be real to incite hatred of any kind, or encourage any sort of physical violence. Rather, they hard and mean. And she came in here one day and sat are instructed to be kind to one another, to defuse anger with love, and, above all else, on this couch and she said, ‘You’re going to drive all honor one another’s human dignity, and show true respect. What’s more, the leader of these people away, you’re too mean.’ Yvette was right.” My son Charles spent all six of his elementary school this nation of six hundred doesn’t have time to take to Twitter; he has real work to do. years at Holton, and the lessons he learned there David Hudson was dressed impeccably from the up their jackets. The kids knew then, as they know helped him immensely in middle school. While at- leather of his uppers to the trademark bowtie below now, that their Mr. Hudson means business, that tending middle school in Henrico County (for a total his chin. We were sitting in his office at Holton. There there are laws they all must follow. of 33 days) he was bullied relentlessly by a small group was a photograph of his daughter, now in her twen- “Even if you’re stern,” he told me. “If you’re fair and of students, and at least one teacher. The bullying was ties, framed on a shelf facing his desk. And behind you listen to everything a kid has to say, they don’t so intense that he later developed posttraumatic stress him, hung on the wall, was a vintage photograph look at you as being mean. They know they can come disorder that he is still being treated for, but Charles, of a group of pre-teen boys sitting on the hood and to you and something is done.” drawing on the knowledge he had acquired at Holton, bumper of a classic automobile, a bulbous clunker of refrained from becoming a bully himself. steel. Each one of the children adorning the front of That was five years ago, and today in that same office, “There’s no bullying here because we teach the stu- this car like so many hood ornaments is dressed to the two pictorial reminders are in the same place they dents from kindergarten to be nice,” says Mr. Hud- the high nines. were back then. Mr. Hudson points to the photo of his daughter. “I provide a school that I would want son. “I think bullying is something that not only par- “Let me explain why dress is important,” David told my own child to go to,” he says. “That’s why I have a ents have to work on, but the school has to work on.” me as he adjusted his bowtie. “One of the things I picture of my kid there. When I look at that picture, Mr. Hudson remembers a pivotal moment in his think people never talk about is why we’re in school, I see my children here at the school. I make sure that own life that occurred when he was in college. A and realistically we’re in school so one day the kids when parents leave their children here they know group of bullies would say mean things to one young can be very successful in the workplace. I have a their children will be in safe hands, and that teachers man, and the man would laugh it off. Mr. Hudson problem with kids that have clothes hanging off of are going to work with them, and that they are going took this young man aside and asked him if he really their body. They can be valedictorian of their class, to be safe from other people in the building, whether thought what was being said about was funny. “No, I but they’re going to apply for a position in the real they’re students or adults. People in this building are don’t,” the young man said. “I’m just afraid.” world and they’re not going to get it. Because the first going to treat the students with respect, and in return “Sometimes people don’t speak up for themselves, thing we do is look at appearance. I would never come the students are going to treat every other person in so you have to,” Mr. Hudson says. “You can’t allow into this building dressed any other way than the way this building with respect.” you see me now. My appearance has to be in a style people to make people feel uncomfortable, and a lot that is respectful to the kids. I hope I’m portraying a When former Third District School Board Repre- of people are not successful in life because people are good image because hopefully one day when they go sentative Carol Wolf found Mr. Hudson (who was doing that to them.” then working at J.E.B. Stuart Elementary School), to their job they will be able to get the job based on But not at Holton, because Mr. Hudson has one sim- Holton, just a few years old at the time, was slip- their respect for themselves, which comes through in ple rule: “You don’t call people names, you don’t make ping into a sinkhole. Chaos reigned, and the student their appearance.” them feel uncomfortable, and you don’t touch them.” A half-hour earlier, as the school buses had lined the drive on the side of Holton, a number of boys, climb- by CHARLES MCGUIGAN ing down the steps of the bus to the sidewalk, hastily tucked their shirts in, adjusted their belts, and zipped photos by REBECCA D’ANGELO

14 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 THE CENTER WILL HOLD

His staff of teachers, each carefully selected, are among the best teachers in the state. “I have a staff one hundred percent on target,” says Mr. Hudson. “Fifty-five employees in all.” Mr. Hudson encourages his teachers to make themselves even more successful than they are. “I tell my teachers that this school for them is like a classroom,” he says. “I don’t want them to stay idle, I want them to keep moving on, and my job is to help that. The principal of (William) Fox (Elementary School), Daniela Jacobs, used to be my assistant, and I saw so much greatness in her that I encouraged her. Like my assistant now, my job is to make her a principal one day. You show them the ropes because you want it be contagious throughout the system. When a teacher wants to move up, I’m not going to hold them back. I want them to move up.“ I have walked the halls with Mr. Hudson throughout the day, following a routine that he carries out every day like a doctor making her rounds in a hospital. He visits every classroom, and spends time talking with the students and the teachers. He wants everyone to know that he is always available, and willing to make changes when necessary. “As soon as there’s a problem, you need to tell me about it,” says Mr. Hudson. “You don’t hold it in. You need to tell me, and we need to fix it immediately. The worst thing is to wait till the next day to tell me because it has grown inside.” Every Wednesday, Mr. Hudson meets with all his teachers, and asks them if they have any concerns. “For almost fourteen years I’ve done that,” he says. “I train my teachers and student teachers to tell me when there’s something wrong. No matter how well you think something is running, there’s going to be a problem. I praise the teachers when they tell me there’s something wrong. I can’t fix good, don’t tell me anything good. Only tell me something that I can fix. That’s how it’s supposed to be. I listen to what people say.” He preaches the same message to parents, and he’s not kidding. Every time I had a concern when Charles attended school there, I would call Mr. Hud- son, sometimes as late as eleven at night, and he always took my calls, and tackled the problem immediately. “I’m out there in the front of the school in the afternoon, and I’m out there in the morning” he says. “I’m around all the time. I walk through the community at least once a week. If I look at a parent and see something wrong, I call them and ask them, ‘Are you okay? Is there something I can do?” Mr. Hudson has often heard parents on the playground after school talking about their concerns. “I’ve said to them: ‘A problem you don’t share, is a problem you don’t want fixed,” he says. “’You need to If this golden rule is broken, Mr. Hudson encour- be your friend, it’s to solve problems. My job is to tell me. You’re out there on that playground talking, ages people to tell him. “And I mean everyone,” he make sure that every child feels good about school. it’s not going to be fixed. Come here and tell me, and says. “I give my (cellphone) number to bus driv- I say, ‘Let’s say nice words to one another.’ And the I will do something.’” ers, parents, even the neighbors in this area. You boy and girls here are very good to one another, Along with special education and administration, see anything wrong, let me know. My job is not to and to the staff.” Mr. Hudson also studied and taught mathematics, December 2016 • NORTH of the JAMES magazine 15

Chart a course to Richmond’s finest family neighborhood restaurant in the heart of Bellevue Monday through Saturday: 11am till closing* Sunday: 10am till closing* Join us early for brunch or dollar tacos later in the day and he suspects his fascination with 2010, when Mr. Hudson received REB *limited menu after 10 pm math may have had a direct effect on Award for Distinguished Educational his problem-solving strategies. “I’m Leadership, he donated the $15,000 going to look at it, I’m going to analyze monetary award to the school to fur- it, and I’m going to react to it,” he says. ther develop the learning garden pro- Your Family Friendly Neighborhood Restaurant “I have that math background. With gram. The outdoor classroom, which math you have to always figure out a won a Golden Hammer award, is Join Us for Happy Hour Specials 3-6pm, Mon-Fri problem. You have to solve the prob- fondly called The Hudson House. lems. It’s rarely that I have to solve the Ten years ago, I met with Mr. Hudson 1217 Bellevue Avenue • 266-4403 problem the next day. All problems and asked him if he would consider can be solved.” becoming involved with our annual Years ago, Mr. Hudson learned to Christmas on MacArthur. He was in- eliminate one simple, monosyllabic stantly on board, and has since become word from his vocabulary, a deadly the unofficial grand marshal of the -pa and defeatist word, a word that can rade, year after year, always dressed to destroy life dreams for good and all. perfection and driving one of his clas- “I never say no,” he says. “My father sic sports cars, brimming with toys. told me that. “The worst thing you can Mr. Hudson transformed the parade, ClassicTouch do is tell somebody no. First off, you’re seeking active participation from stu- lazy when you say no. But there’s so dents, parents, the school’s chorus and much more to it than that. When you band, long with the marching bands of say no, you pour water right on the other local public schools. He tirelessly flames. You put it out.” So regardless promotes the event to the student body, Cleaning encouraging kids to bring their dona- what the kids, the teachers, the parents Simplifying Lives suggest, Mr. Hudson always listens, tions for Toys for Tots. Each year, the and he doesn’t say no. kids at Holton donate more toys than One House any other group. They have learned Consider the Dandelion Garden, from Mr. Hudson that generosity is which has been coming into its own humanity’s greatest achievement. At a Time! for the past six years. It serves as outdoor classroom and hosts a variety of “We have every nationality here, we eco-friendly gardens and a veritable have everything, and we make good forest that will take decades to mature. people out of our students,” says Prin- What’s more, this initiative teaches cipal David Hudson. “I tell kids and children and adults alike about the parents during the awards program beauty of gardening, and all the tasks that the first thing I look for is good associated with it. Kids learn to grow citizenship. What happens when you their own vegetables and herbs, and make good people? They’re going to Residential Cleaning how to create compost and how to take care of society, and they’re going tend raised beds. to take care of each other, too, because 1229 Bellevue Avenue they know how to act.” Richmond, VA 23227 Holton parents Susanna Raffenot and Ellen Shepard were the mothers of this Would that politicians would begin to understand these profound truths, (804) 262-6979 garden project, and when they pre- sented the idea to Mr. Hudson, he did would that these leaders had attended not say, “No.” Linwood Holton Elementary School, E-mail: [email protected] a great public school, a school for all Website: www.classictouchcleaning.com In fact, he threw his full support be- children, a school well-governed by a hind these two women and their pro- man whose objective is not power, but ject. He even dug and weeded, got the safety and well-being of his citi- good dirt under his nails. And then in zens, every last one of them. 16 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 Thinking about selling “Don't throw it away!” your home in Northside? WANTED old postcard posters magazines Contact me for a FREE market analysis. calendars scrapbooks catalogues I have expertise in Market Valuations, Negotiations, Advertising, Home photos advertising sheet music maps Staging, Inspections, Appraisals, Investing & Mortgage Financing. BUY SELL APPRAISE Bellevue’s Full-Service Auto Repair for 25 Years Chris Hollister REALTOR® Bobby Shore Hollister Properties WHITING’S 5407 Patterson Ave., Suite 101 Richmond, VA 23226 4031 MacArthur Avenue 804.240.9415 OLD PAPER Richmond, VA 23227 [email protected] (804) 262-7582 www.HollisterSales.com 746-4710 Mom’s Engaged! Enjoy life fully at The Hermitage:

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December 2016 • NORTH of the JAMES magazine 17 HermitageGrill LETTERS A NORTHSIDE DINING EXPERIENCE continued from page 11 and helped spread mulch around the trees on a beautiful Saturday. To me, that is his essence. Mr. Hudson not only speaks out on his support, but he rolls up his sleeves and digs in the dirt with us. You are a wonderful man and we profes- sionally love you. Thank you! All the Raffenots, Holton parents and children

Mr. Hudson is wonderful. He provides his students and staff with structure, authority and respect. He was there for our family when my husband was in a terrible acci- dent two years ago. Mr. Hudson is a pillar of our community and an indispensable Mr. Hudson with Jackson Drumheller. asset for Richmond Public Schools. Karina Martinez, My son had a very rough second grade year. Holton parent His father had been traveling for work dur- Bigger & Better Than Ever ing the week and he missed him very much. Tuesday-Friday 11-11 • Saturday 3-11 • Sunday Brunch 9-3 It is an honor to be working again at Hol- Jackson was struggling with what we later ton under the leadership of Principal Da- learned was dyslexia. Jackson was very sad vid Hudson. Our family is currently in our and very stressed. He no longer wanted to Carry Out & 6010 Hermitage Road 11th consecutive year at Holton, with Ally attend school and he would cry a lot. One Catering Available 264-7400 and Cate being alumni and Gigi in kinder- morning I took my son straight to Mr. Hud- garten. I remember what Holton was like son. I didn’t know what to do and I needed before Mr. Hudson and I know how truly help. Mr. Hudson stepped up immediately. fortunate we are to have David Hudson as Beginning that day, and for weeks after, he our truly passionate, always professional would stop by Jackson’s class to check on leader and role model. We feel so fortunate him. When Jackson was having a tough to be able to say that we know this amaz- time he was invited to go straight to Mr. ing human being and it is with honor that Hudson’s office and allowed to use Mr. Hud- we can call this man our friend. son’s phone to call me. Mr. Hudson would COME DANCE WITH US! also allow Jackson and a friend to eat lunch Kim Lavach, Holton parent with him. Jackson’s second grade year was tough. But, because of Mr. Hudson, my son was able to find comfort at school. Holton I don’t even know the man, but he came was a second home to us. We will forever be to the Ginter Park pool because one of his grateful to know David Hudson. students (a six-year old) was fearful of go- Brooke Fauver Drumheller, ing in the pool and he wanted to build up Holton parent her confidence. Did I mention this was in July and August and NOT during the school year. I was beyond impressed. EDITOR’S NOTE: Andrea Liverman, Letters in support of Mr. Hudson continue Northside resident to flood our email-box. If you haven’t written one, feel free to do so. We will continue publishing them throughout 2017. We’ve been at Holton with Mr. Hudson since 2006 and think the world of him! All We encourage all letters to the editor. three of our girls have gone to Holton (one Submit letters to the editor one of three is still there) and have loved it. Our middle ways: Go to northofthejames.com/ is now at Lucille Brown and our oldest is contact ; respond on our g-mail address at at Maggie Walker. Mr. Hudson is the kind [email protected] ; or send a of principal who is completely dedicated letter to North of the James, P.O. Box 9225, to the families at Holton Elementary and (Natalie and Audrey) at Richmond, VA 23227. knows each child by name. We know that we can bring any concerns at all to him Letters must contain the writer’s name for SCOTT BOYER TEACHES DANCE and he’ll work on fixing them that day. He verification and authentication. The pub- also shows up on the weekends when we lisher reserves the right to edit for clarity, or need him to open up the building so we withhold from publication any letter for any Ages 3 to adult, priced from $210. can do things like prepare for the school reason. Letters to the editor become the pos- play. Nothing is off the table. We feel so session of North of the James. Published let- lucky to have Mr. Hudson at the helm of Holton. ters reflect the opinion of their writers and 804-798-9364 not North of the James, or its staff. Kristin Cummings, [email protected] Holton parent

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December 2016 • NORTH of the JAMES magazine 19 BOOK REVIEW A Planet Scarred And Scared by FRAN WITHROW

ANE ALEXANDER IS multi-talented. You may know her as an actress, but you may not be aware that she has a gift for writing as well. “Wild Things, Wild Places” is her passionate book about traveling around the world Jas an advocate for conservation. And travel she has. From Mexico to Nepal, and from Amazonia to Ec- uador, Alexander has explored the world extensively, writing knowled- gably about a wide variety of animals and their struggles to survive in an ever-changing world. She meets with scientists on the forefront of the conservation movement and shares their dedicated work with her readers. Alexander also describes the work being done by various countries to com- Alexander is a tireless advocate even bat poaching and the loss of wildlife with her own grandchildren. One like the way NORTH of the JAMES magazine looks? habitat. Some countries face an in- charming tradition I love is her plan to credibly uphill battle, and I am filled take her grandchildren anywhere they with admiration for their efforts. And want to go for their twelfth birthday. while it may seem hopeless, it is not. (Her granddaughters nixed Paris and Alexander cites the example of Chi- Hawaii for Galapagos. How great is nese film star Li Bingbing, who has be- that?) What a lovely way to educate the come one of Asia’s leading advocates next generation about the importance for Elephants, fighting illegal wildlife of preserving the richness of what we trade. It only takes one person. have on this planet. But her true love is for the animals We cannot save everything, she ac- themselves. Her excitement upon see- knowledges. Some species that occu- ing a rare Monal Pheasant in Bhutan is py very specific habitats may not sur- palpable. Throughout the book, Alex- vive. But we can help, with “thoughtful text 804 980 5604 call ander capitalizes the names of animals management,” as “there is life every- as a way of “elevating their status.” I where, and life wants to thrive.” contact DOBEY DESIGN for all your graphic needs found this to be a powerful means of Alexander’s book is positive in nature, according animals the respect they de- filled with photos (though I wanted serve, and I applaud her decision. more, and of those, more in color). I Alexander seamlessly blends her ex- sped through it, riveted, cheering for plorations with tales from her life, her and her critical work for our world. one rich in encounters with nature, I was pleased to see that she ends with explaining how a love for wildlife was a list of her favorite organizations pro- instilled in her at an early age. Yet moting conservation, as well as an ex- she is not maudlin about the changes tensive bibliography of books “about has seen. In 1943 she visited Walden wild things and wild places.” I will Pond, then a place rich with frogs, definitely be reading more. clear water and little fish “swimming Wild Things, Wild Places: between our legs.” It’s all developed Adventurous Tales of Wildlife and now, but she can still see the beauty Conservation on Planet Earth “in a shaft of light across pavement in by Jane Alexander the big city…. It is there for us, even 352 pages in the ugliness we’ve inflicted.” She re- Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group minds us that the earth is “scarred” as $28.95 well as “sacred.”

20 NORTH of the JAMES magazine • December 2016 PHOTO ILLUSTRATION by DOUG DOBEY HIDDEN HISTORIES No Room at the Inn

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by BRIAN BURNS and JUDD PROCTOR Acclaimed British Actor, Sir John Gielgud

IR JOHN GIELGUD IS launched his own company in 1937 one of the greatest Brit- at the Queen’s Theater, proving his ex- ish actors of the twentieth ceptional talents as a stage director. century, playing leading Gielgud also had a long and happy gay and character roles on the life, living to age ninety-six. He met the stage and screen. love of his life, Martin Hensler, at an Born in 1904 in London, art show in the 1960s. They remained Sone of his very first roles was Humpty together for forty years, until Hensler’s Dumpty. At seventeen he joined the early death in 1999. By all appearanc- Old Vic Theater Company, and two es, they were happily “married,” shar- years later made his first silent film, ing a 17th-century Buckinghamshire “Who Is That Man?” estate with their three Tibetan terriers. th 41 annual Easily transitioning to talkies in the Hensler’s death devastated Gielgud, Nutcracker 1930s, he became a box-office idol. He who himself passed away just a few was known for his expressive voice, months later. That night, the lights at Dec 17 Full Length Nutcracker which actor Alec Guinness said sound- the Gielgud Theatre in London were Atlee High School in Hanover ed “like a silver trumpet muffled in silk.” dimmed for three minutes – a sym- Gielgud’s greatest legacy was pioneer- bolic tribute to the greatest Shake- ing the theater company system. He spearean actor of the century. Human Rights Day Human Rights Day is celebrated The formal establishment of Human around the world every December Rights Day occurred on December 4, 10th. It commemorates the United 1950, when the U.N. General Assem- 798-0945 [email protected] www.concertballet.com Nations General Assembly’s adoption bly passed resolution 423(V). It invited and proclamation, on December 10, all members and other interested or- 1948, of the Universal Declaration of ganizations to celebrate Human Rights Human Rights. Available in over 360 Day on December 10th as they saw fit. Hayes Brothers languages, it was the first worldwide The United Nations Prize in the Field enunciation of human rights and one of Human Rights is bestowed every CONSTRUCTION Pet of the first major achievements of the five years on Human Rights Day. Sitting new United Nations. FREE ESTIMATES Services 321-2216 Mummers Primp DONNA DUFFIELD Every New Year’s Eve, Philadelphia the “Mummers Strut.” • General Contractor clubs are putting the finishing touches This all takes place in clubhouses, - on their elaborate costumes for the • Interior Painting (804) 397 6720 many located on or near Two Street in annual New Year’s Day Mummers South Philly. • Exterior Painting Loving Care where your Parade. Some of the getups cost tens of thousands of dollars to make, and And don’t forget the string bands. The • Roofing pet is most comfortable- weigh over 100 pounds. Together with earliest surviving one is Trilby, first pa- rading in 1902. The Ferko String Band • Decks their own home! movable scenery, they are months in the making. Some Mummers practice started marching in 1923, and has the 19th century cakewalk, known as never missed a single parade.

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