Local Entrepreneur Crystal Richards will open Nappy by Nature, a hair salon, with assistance from the city of Richmond Department of Economic Development’s Commercial Area Revitalization Effort (CARE) and Enterprise Zone Programs. The salon, located at 1820 Hull Street, will hold a grand opening today, September 15, 2009, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. “At a very young age, I knew I wanted to be in the hair care industry,” said Richards. “My goal was to one day operate my own salon and I am very excited that the day is finally becoming a reality.” “It is extremely fulfilling to see a business excel to this point and utilize the financial incentives offered through the city’s CARE program,” said city Director of Economic Development Carthan Currin. “By providing business assistance through financial and enterprise zone incentives, we are stimulating private investment in the city.” To celebrate the grand opening, Nappy by Nature is offering specials to youth ages 4 -17 on Tuesday. The salon spec...

The Richmond Healthy Start Initiative has been notified that they will receive $4.5 million over the next five years through the Healthy Start program at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The program is dedicated to ensuring that low-income and disadvantaged pregnant women receive the health care they need. Services include outreach, home visitation, case management, health education, perinatal depression screening, interconceptional care and other effective approaches to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy birth. U.S. Congressman Bobby Scott stated, “Healthy Start is exactly the type of community-based prevention program that will save lives and also millions of dollars in healthcare costs down the road.” “I am thankful that the Richmond Healthy Start Initiative has been selected to receive this funding,” said Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones. “Congressman Scott has been a true champion for our program and I thank him for his efforts in ensuring we receive this fund...