A few points of interest you'll see while in Richmond

While in Richmond, this year's Professional Development Seminar will offer several opportunities to see a glimpse of just some of the places that we Virginians feel make our Capital city so special.

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts:
Wednesday, October 3, 6:30-9:30PM
Your Virginia hosts welcome you to Richmond with a reception in the newly expanded Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA), a world-class, state-supported and privately endowed educational institution.  The permanent collection contains works by many of the world's greatest artists and several of the stunning galleries will be open for you to view.  Museum docents will be on hand to talk about the various collections, including the European, French, American, Pre-Columbian, Mid-to-Late 20th Century, and British Sporting collections.  In the grand Marble Hall of the Museum, you will enjoy food, beverages and conversation, with music provided by the Eastern Standard Time Jazz Trio.

Mr. Jefferson's Capitol:
Thursday, October 4, 9:30-noon; 6-8PM
Conference attendees will have two opportunities to visit Virginia's State Capitol. Thursday morning, our staff break-out sessions will be held in meeting rooms in the newest addition to the building. We will end our day with a reception on the second floor of the Jefferson-designed home to America's oldest continuously operating, English-speaking legislative body in the Western Hemisphere.  As you dine, you’ll learn of the history that has occurred in this treasured landmark – from the ratification of the Bill of Rights and trial of Aaron Burr to the visits by Queen Elizabeth II and other dignitaries, as well as last year’s filming of Spielberg's soon-to-be released movie “Lincoln."  Capitol tour guides will be on hand to discuss the historic spaces, while state lawmakers and members of the House and Senate staff will be in the chambers to give you a peek at how we operate when the General Assembly is in Session.

St. John's Church:
Friday, October 5, 6-7PM
St. John's Church became famous as a living memorial to American liberty when over 100 Virginia colonial leaders, including Patrick Henry, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Richard Henry Lee, and Peyton Randolph met here in March of 1775 to avoid the wrath of Royal Governor Lord Dunmore in Williamsburg. St. John's Church was the only building in Richmond suitable to hold the delegates. Patrick Henry's famous "Give me Liberty or Give me Death" speech was delivered on 23 March 1775 inside the church. Henry's timely resolutions passed by a narrow margin and the American Revolution began the following month when shots were fired at Lexington and Concord.