Another View's Selected Short Stories

Ever heard of "Cuffeytown"? It's an historic community created by free Blacks in the 1700's in Chesapeake. Lisa Godley shares the history of this vibrant community and what the ancestors of the founding families and others are doing to keep the history alive.

“There’s no right way to do something wrong!” is not just a quote, but a way of life for the man you’re about to meet. You might think you know Elisha “Cadillac” Harris, a Hampton Roads native who spent four decades serving as the head coach of three local football teams! But, Cadillac’s journey from talented athlete to admired coach was not an easy one. He reflected on his life and his chosen path with our Lisa Godley.

A Virginia Couple wants to ensure children and teens have good financial literacy. That’s why Jesse and Mi Mi James wrote, ‘Bobo Slim'z NuggetZ $ Gemz!’ Our Lisa Godley gives us an up-close look at the creators of this new children’s book and the lessons they’re hopeful that children of all age.

Boo Williams has been making a difference in the lives of young athletes here in the Hampton Roads area for Decades. Such basketball legends as Alonzo Mourning and Allen Iverson were coached by Boo! Summer basketball league has netted him countless awards and accolades. There is currently a documentary about his life in the works and a huge celebration of Boo’s 40-year commitment to young people and basketball taking place on the Peninsula next weekend! Our Lisa Godley got a chance to chat with this Hampton native and gives us an up close look at the legend of Boo Williams.

Founded by free and enslaved blacks in 1776, The First Baptist Church of Williamsburg has a rich history. And now, this historic church is unearthing a new chapter. In addition to finding the remnants of not one, but two earlier church buildings, archaeologists have uncovered 40 graves, believed to be the remains of some of the church’s earliest members. Our Lisa Godley was there when congregants gathered to reflect on the past, pay tribute to the ancestors, and prepare for what this extensive archaeological dig could uncover next.

Imagine experiencing flooding so severe that it destroys your home, your community, and your livelihood. Now imagine starting over with no money, no family support, and only self-determination and the kindness of strangers to keep you alive. Well, for a group of young men in the country of South Sudan, this is a way of life. Our Lisa Godley recently spoke with one of the young men, who for years has called the Kakuma Refugee Camp his home. And hear from the Norfolk woman who is trying to help. For more information, contact Outreach Africa’s Executive Director, Julie Hill at: [email protected].

Tony award winning actress, singer and songwriter, Renee Elise Goldsberry is coming to Hampton Roads! Best known for her portrayal of OF Angelica Schuyler in the Broadway sensation “Hamilton,” she will perform with her band locally next month. Our Lisa Godley spoke with the talented performer about being Angelica, her current projects, and what we can expect when her band performs in Norfolk, Friday, May 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Norfolk’s Chrysler Hall.

THEY ARE ONE THOUSAND MEMBERS STRONG AND HAVE BEEN WORKING DILIGENTLY FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS TO CLOSE THE ACHIEVEMENT GAP IN WILLIAMSBURG-JAMES CITY COUNTY SCHOOLS. IN OUR EFFORTS TO SHOWCASE BLACK NON-PROFITS, TODAY WE’D LIKE TO INTRODUCE YOU TO: “THE VILLAGE INITIATIVE.” OUR LISA GODLEY GIVES US AN INSIDE LOOK AT HOW THEY’RE UTILIZING MENTORS, TUTORS AND PASSIONATE ADVOCATES TO MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITY.

If you’ve ever seen the word “Ham” scribbled at the bottom of a huge mural gracing the side of a building, you are about to meet the artist. His name is Hamilton Glass. While his work has been featured in Norfolk’s Neon District, the bulk of his colorful creations adorn building after building in downtown Richmond. Our Lisa Godley recently spoke to the Hampton University grad about his talent for bringing community stories to life through art, and what it takes to do things… BIG!

This little fact should make you think. Close to 90 million Americans are at risk for preventative health problems due to low health literacy. What you don’t know could kill you! Fortunately, there is a free program available to help folks here in Hampton Roads increase awareness when it comes to health. It’s called “Healthier 757.” Our Lisa Godley gives us an inside look at the interactive program where the more you learn, the more you could earn!