September 24: ‘Blessing of the Land’ Ceremony For New AA Cultural Center

VIRGINIA BEACH
On Saturday, September 24 a special ceremony will occur in preparation for the building of a new African-American cultural center in Virginia Beach. Beginning at 1 p.m. through 4 p.m. at 705 Hampshire Lane, Virginia Beach 23462, performances, speakers, vendors, exhibitioners, entertainment and more will “bless the land” upon which the center will be built.
City Councilwoman Amelia Ross-Hammond is credited with spearheading the city’s participation in getting the African-American Cultural Center built in Virginia Beach.

In 2015, City Council set aside nearly five acres of land for the project at Lake Edward Park which is projected to cost about $11 million and be completed in the next five years.
Now a feasibility study will be undertaken that will involve surveys, meeting with stakeholders, and planning a capital campaign to pay for the museum, which will be funded privately through a new foundation.