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File a Trademark for $399 + $250 Government Filing Fee

Trademark Attorney Working With Clients in Richmond, VA

If you're an entrepreneur, you know that protecting your intellectual property should be high on your list when it comes to safeguarding your company. However, as a successful business owner, you also know the steps and costs of filing a trademark in the U.S. can be expensive and arduous.

This conundrum can be even more overwhelming for new business owners who want to do everything possible to minimize the price of securing trademarks. They try to handle complicated tasks like trademark registration on their own, which can be a big mistake - especially when juggling the day-to-day tasks of running a business. You may be thinking, "But what about those set-it-and-forget-it services you can find online? All you have to do is plug in your info, and you're done." Using pre-made templates for trademark filing can be tempting, but doing so can leave you with inadequate protection and hurt you in the long run.

So, what is the easiest, most cost-effective route to consider that also minimizes legal risk? The truth is, before you spend money on an online filing service, it's best to consult with a trademark attorney working with clients in Richmond, VA.

At Sausser Summers, PC, our experienced trademark attorneys can help you understand the trademark process step by step. We can even help with U.S. trademark filing, U.S. trademark responses, and U.S. trademark renewals at a price you can actually afford. That way, you can make an informed decision regarding your business without having to break the bank.

Sausser Summers, PC: Simplifying the U.S. Trademark Process

Hiring an attorney can be a daunting task, but at Sausser Summers, PC, our goal is to make the process as simple and seamless as possible for you. That's why we offer a straightforward checkout service. First, you choose your flat fee trademark service and fill out a short questionnaire. Then, we will contact you within 24 hours to discuss the details of our service. From there, one of our experienced trademark attorneys will get to work on your behalf.

Using a trademark attorney for filing in Richmond, VA, can significantly increase your chances of a successful registration. The U.S. government recommends hiring a trademark attorney to help with your application, and our team of trademark lawyers is dedicated to meeting your needs. In fact, we help ensure your application is filed correctly the first time so you can get on with your life and avoid legal risks.

At Sausser Summers, PC, we work closely with our clients to understand their needs and provide them with sound professional advice. We never offer incomplete services, such as simply filing for registration, because that would leave you open to legal risks. You can rely on us to handle your intellectual property matters, and our flat fee services can help protect your business in a simple, straightforward, and affordable way. It's really that simple.

In terms of filing a U.S. trademark, we provide an easy three-step process to protect your intellectual property:

1. You provide your trademark info to our team via an online form.

2. Our team performs a comprehensive trademark search. This search ensures that no other marks will prevent you from registering your trademark in the U.S. Once performed, we'll send you a legal opinion letter that details our findings.

3. Sausser Summers, PC, files your U.S. trademark application. We are then listed as your Attorney of Record on file. From there, we'll provide ongoing updates regarding the status of your trademark as it works through the registration process.

The bottom line? At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.

Online Trademark Attorney Richmond, VA
The bottom line?

At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.

Do I Really Need a Trademark Attorney for Protecting My Business in Richmond, VA?

It's not necessary to be a lawyer in order to apply for a trademark. Anyone can submit a trademark application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). However, registering a trademark involves more than just filling out a form. It's essential to conduct thorough research, accurately identify and clearly explain your trademark to ensure it receives adequate protection. And even after securing a trademark, you've got to monitor it consistently to make sure it's free from infringement.

The big takeaway here is that it's always a good idea to work with a trademark attorney to protect the intellectual property that you've worked so hard to establish. According to the Wall Street Journal, applicants are approximately 50% more likely to secure their trademark than people who file applications on their own. If your trademark application is rejected by the USPTO, you will need to revise and refile it, incurring additional filing fees. To avoid delays and extra costs, it is best to have a trademark lawyer help you get it right the first time.

Additional Benefits of Using a Trademark Attorney

Great trademark attorneys (like those you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC) will help with every step of filing and enforcing your trademark. Some additional benefits include the following:

Check to see if your proposed trademark is registered by another entity.

Conduct research to see if another business is using the trademark for which you're applying.

Provide advice and guidance on the strength of your trademark.

Draft and submit your trademark applications and application revisions.

Advice and guidance regarding trademark maintenance and protection.

Monitor the market for unauthorized use of your trademark.

Trademark enforcement to protect you against infringement.

 Online Trademark Lawyer Richmond, VA

Curious whether our trademark attorney services are right for you and your business? Contact Sausser Summer, PC, today. Let's talk about what you need, and how we can help.

What About Online Filing Services?

Online services, can provide you with basic assistance in filing your trademark. However, they will never be a legitimate substitute for an experienced trademark attorney helping clients in Richmond, VA.

 Trademark Attorney Richmond, VA

Although online filing services offer a step-by-step process, they take a one-size-fits-all approach to preparing legal documents. Even their advanced service only provides basic attorney assistance in completing your paperwork and helping with minor roadblocks. Online filing services' disclaimer highlights the many limitations of its services, including the fact that communications are not protected by attorney-client privilege. In addition, online filing services cannot provide advice, explanations, opinions, recommendations, or any kind of legal guidance on possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies.

In other words, online filing services can offer you the necessary forms and point you in the right direction, but they cannot customize their services to your specific needs or help you with serious complications that may arise.

For the most comprehensive trademark service and protection, it's always wise to work with highly rated trademark lawyers, like you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC.

Understanding Trademarks Over Time

Trademarks in the U.S. can last indefinitely, but did you know that clients in Richmond, VA can file a trademark online, only to lose protection in some circumstances? Trademarks differ from patents and copyrights in that they do not have an expiration date. However, to prevent the cancellation of a trademark, you must maintain it. To ensure that your trademark remains protected, you must actively use it in commerce and renew it with the USPTO every ten years.

The Lanham Act tells us that "use in commerce" is the legitimate use of a trademark in the ordinary course of trade. In other words, you cannot register a trademark solely to reserve the rights to it in the future. In most cases, a trademark must be used continuously in connection with the goods or services it is registered for.

 Trademark Law Firm Richmond, VA

Steps to Renew Your Trademark

Trademarks are registered with the USPTO and generally need to be renewed every ten years. However, there is one crucial exception that you should be aware of. Within the first ten years of owning a trademark, you must file for renewal between the fifth and sixth year from the date of your initial registration.

During this renewal period, you are required to submit a Section 8 declaration, a specimen that shows how the mark is being used, and pay the required fee. You can also apply for Section 15 Incontestability status, which can strengthen your trademark rights. This application, although not mandatory, can make it harder for others to challenge your ownership of the mark.

After the first renewal, which falls between the fifth and sixth year of ownership, the next renewal filing is due between the ninth and tenth year, and then every tenth year thereafter. In the ninth year you will need to file a Section 8 declaration, attesting to your use of the mark or excusable nonuse. You've also got to file a Section 9 renewal application before the end of the tenth year to keep your registration active.

It is worth noting that the USPTO provides a six-month grace period if you fail to renew your mark within the required time frame, but it is best not to rely on it. If you don't file within the grace period time limits, the USPTO will cancel and expire your mark.

By hiring trademark attorneys helping clients in Richmond, VA, you can avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that can arise and cause you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it.

Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Abandonment

In the event that you stop using your trademark and have no plans to resume using it in commerce, it may be considered abandoned by the USPTO. This could result in the loss of your protective rights to the mark. Typically, a trademark is assumed to be abandoned if it has not been used for three years. However, you may be able to refute this presumption by providing evidence that you intend to use the mark again in the future.

Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Inappropriate Licensing

In addition to trademark abandonment, you should also be wary of improper licensing. It's important to remember that once you allow someone else to use your trademark, you must keep an eye on how they use it. You should monitor the products or services that feature your trademark to ensure that they meet consumers' expectations in terms of quality. Failure to do so can lead to a "naked" trademark license and the loss of your protective trademark rights.

How to Avoid Having to Refile Your Trademark

If you're wondering how you can avoid refiling your trademark, the answer is simple: file it correctly the first time around. Filing a trademark isn't inherently difficult, but when doing so, it's very important that certain aspects are filled out accurately in your application. If any information is missing or incorrect, the trademark application may be considered "void ab initio" or void from the beginning, requiring you to file again.

To avoid this, make sure that the information you provide in the application is accurate and complete, including the ownership of the trademark. For instance, if a corporation has multiple shareholders, it should not file under the President's personal name. The rightful owner should be the one/entity that ultimately controls the trademark and the associated goods/services.

It is also important to ensure that the goods and/or services description is precise. For example, if you sell electronic products, you should not file for research and development services despite having a research and development department. The goods/services description should reflect the goods/services you offer to customers, not the departments within your business.

Additionally, providing accurate dates of first use when filing for a trademark is crucial. The USPTO requires two dates to be specified - the date of first use anywhere and the date of first use in interstate commerce. Contact our trademark law office today to learn more about having accurate dates on your filing paperwork.

 Trademark Lawyer Richmond, VA
 Trademark Firm Richmond, VA

What Makes an Online Trademark Attorney Great?

At Sausser Summers, PC, we often get questions about how to distinguish run-of-the-mill consultants and others from great trademark attorneys. After all - when you're looking for an attorney to file or prosecute your business trademark, you should know their qualifications. Here are three ways you can separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff when it comes to trademark attorneys.

It's crucial to seek legal advice from a licensed trademark lawyer rather than relying on advice from non-professionals like trademark consultants. The USPTO even recommends hiring an attorney to help with the trademark process. Although trademark consultants may provide advice on trademark availability or name marketability, they cannot file the trademark for you or offer legal advice. According to the Rules of Practicing in trademark cases, "Individuals who are not attorneys are not recognized to practice before the Office in trademark matters." This rule applies to individuals who assist trademark applicants.

When searching for a trademark attorney, it's important to find someone with a strong background in trademark law. Look for an attorney who specializes in this area and has significant experience handling trademark-related cases. Avoid lawyers who don't have expertise in this field, as they may not be able to provide the guidance and support you need.

Ensure your attorney provides updates throughout the trademark registration process to avoid missing deadlines, including responding to any Office actions within six months. Failure to do so can result in trademark abandonment. The USPTO will only correspond with the listed attorney of record, so make sure your attorney keeps you informed.

In summary:

  • Be sure you're using a licensed trademark attorney helping clients in Richmond, VA.
  • It's best to work with a trademark lawyer who has years of experience filing trademarks.
  • Ensure that your trademark lawyer is willing to provide ongoing notifications relating to your trademark application process.
 Trademark Registration Lawyer Richmond, VA

Trademark Attorneys Working Hard for You

Building your brand and gaining recognition for it is a significant achievement, and it's important to protect it. However, there are certain pitfalls and mistakes that can arise, causing you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it. By working with knowledgeable trademark attorneys, you can avoid these issues and file your trademark successfully.

With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Sausser Summers, PC, offers comprehensive guidance, strategic advice, and reliable representation for a variety of trademark matters. Our attorneys have years of real-world experience and, having registered countless trademarks with the USPTO, provide our clients with individualized representation when they need it most.

If you're looking for skilled, adept, and experienced counsel, look no further than our trademark law firm. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can help you safeguard your brand.

Latest News in Richmond, VA

Richmond, VA – Multi-Vehicle Injury Crash on I-95 North at MM 75.2 Causes Major Delays

Richmond, VA (April 16, 2025) – Emergency personnel responded to a serious multi-vehicle crash involving injuries along the northbound lanes of Interstate 95 near mile marker 75.2 in the City of Richmond on Tuesday afternoon.The collision occurred at approximately 4:18 p.m. on April 15, 2025, triggering a major incident alert due to the number of vehicles involved and the severity of the situation. Emergency responders from Richmond were quickly dispatched to the site, where they provided immediate aid to those hurt in th...

Richmond, VA (April 16, 2025) – Emergency personnel responded to a serious multi-vehicle crash involving injuries along the northbound lanes of Interstate 95 near mile marker 75.2 in the City of Richmond on Tuesday afternoon.

The collision occurred at approximately 4:18 p.m. on April 15, 2025, triggering a major incident alert due to the number of vehicles involved and the severity of the situation. Emergency responders from Richmond were quickly dispatched to the site, where they provided immediate aid to those hurt in the crash. A variety of injuries were reported among the individuals involved, with paramedics assessing and treating victims at the scene.

According to the Virginia Department of Transportation, the northbound right lane and shoulder were closed following the crash, causing significant traffic disruptions in the area. The lane closures remained in place while crews worked to clear debris and safely remove the damaged vehicles. Although traffic was heavily congested during the response, all lanes have since been reopened.

At this time, authorities have not disclosed how many individuals were injured or the full extent of their conditions. Investigators are working to determine the events that led to the crash, and further details may be released as the inquiry continues.

Our thoughts are with all those who sustained injuries in this collision, and we extend our sincerest wishes for their swift and complete recovery.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents in Virginia

High-speed corridors like Interstate 95 are often the site of serious traffic collisions, particularly during peak travel hours. The crash that occurred Tuesday near mile marker 75.2 on I-95 North is a troubling reminder of the risks posed by sudden congestion, driver inattention, or unpredictable traffic flow.

Multi-vehicle crashes often result in a chain reaction that can be difficult for drivers to avoid, especially on heavily traveled interstates where reaction time is limited. In urban centers like Richmond, dense traffic combined with high speeds and multiple lane changes increases the likelihood of major incidents. These collisions frequently involve more than two vehicles and often lead to complex investigations and extended delays.

The presence of injuries in these types of crashes makes emergency response and traffic management even more critical. First responders must balance providing medical assistance with maintaining safety for other motorists, especially when only one or two lanes remain open. In this case, the right lane and shoulder closures added to congestion but were necessary to ensure a safe response and investigation.

For victims involved in multi-vehicle incidents, the path to recovery often includes medical treatment, insurance coordination, and sometimes legal guidance. Navigating these steps can be daunting, particularly when multiple parties are involved and the cause of the crash is still under review.

If you were affected by this I-95 crash or a similar incident, know that you are not alone. Support systems are in place across Richmond to help individuals navigate their recovery—whether it’s seeking care for physical injuries, replacing damaged property, or understanding legal rights.

Confused about what to do after being injured in a major I-95 crash? Multi-vehicle accidents can leave you with more questions than answers. Local Accident Reports is committed to helping crash victims across Richmond connect with resources for medical treatment, legal recovery, and emotional support. We believe in making the aftermath easier to handle—reach out today to begin your recovery journey with confidence and care.

Board casts Gilpin Court transfer vote amid concerns: 'We need to lock in those protections'

UPDATE: VPM reports the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board of Commissioners voted down the proposed transfer.RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority's Board of Commissioners voted Wednesday night on whether or not to move Gilpin Court under the leadership of Richmond Development Corporation (RDC).According to RR...

UPDATE: VPM reports the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board of Commissioners voted down the proposed transfer.

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority's Board of Commissioners voted Wednesday night on whether or not to move Gilpin Court under the leadership of Richmond Development Corporation (RDC).

According to RRHA CEO Steven Nesmith, RDC is a wholly owned subsidiary of RRHA, meaning it is still controlled by the Authority.

"The Richmond Development Corporation, the RDC, is not a private company. It is a 501c3," Nesmith explained. "It is used by all, most of the public housing authorities in the Commonwealth of Virginia for what it's a developmental arm to advance development. And so it is a very common practice and is used."

Nesmith said there's a reason why he's pushing for this change now: different funding streams under the nonprofit's name.

"We want to lock in what's called 'tenant protection vouchers' and funding, because at the federal level, with the volatility, we don't know if funding will be there. That's one. And we can also begin the process of leveraging that funding to go after other funding sources," Nesmith explained.

Nesmith said neighbors are on board, referring to a 179-page document including input from residents and planning processes that took place over the course of at least one year.

But not everyone is on board.

Third District Richmond City Councilmember Kenya Gibson wrote a letter to RRHA Wednesday morning, detailing her concerns.

“The affordable housing crisis in Richmond is as much about the fact that we aren't building enough as it is that we are tearing down the most affordable housing stock that we have in the city," Gibson said, citing falling enrollment in Richmond Public Schools because of people moving out of the city to find affordable housing. "Public housing is the most affordable housing stock we have as a city. It's a safety net."

Gibson said she worries about residents being potentially priced out of new housing due to the change.

“As a public piece of property, they're not paying property taxes if they move it into a private nonprofit entity. Now that the property could be subject to property tax, which is a huge amount of money that would have to get passed on to the residents in order to be able to incur it," she said.

She also shared concerns about residents no longer having the same protections that Public Housing Authorities must provide to their residents.

VIDEO VAULT 2017: The history of Richmond’s housing projects

Public housing, when there are public dollars, there are, there are systems in place that are there to protect residents. You know, there are democratic processes that don't exist in private housing complexes, right?" she said. “While I appreciate the benefits of mixed-income housing, of course, that's a goal but, but having that safety net is not something that we can easily replace. There are 2,000 residents at Gilpin Court. Where is the plan for those residents? And why would we make such a drastic decision without having a plan in place?”

Nesmith told CBS 6 that residents would be able to come back and keep the same rent rate.

"The rents here, after redevelopment, will be locked in for the tenants. That's another protection. At 30%. No more than 30% of what they're currently making," Nesmith said. "As we transfer phases into the nonprofit entity, RDC, each phase, we would then apply for tax relief to the city."

Nesmith said the development would be broken up into 10 different phases through the use of a "ground lease," noting that the title to the land would still be under RRHA's name.

Prior to the vote, Nesmith said that regardless, RRHA leaders will meet with tenants once again to discuss plans for Gilpin Court. There are currently 781 units.

CBS 6 compared the recent Creighton Court development, asking why that neighborhood's redevelopment did not involve moving Creighton under the nonprofit. In that case, out of the more than 200 residents who were living in the neighborhood being redeveloped, only about 20 returned.

"When we did Creighton Court, we were not in a volatile situation when it comes to funding for this going forward. But what we're going to do in this, we're not going to just rely on federal funding. We're actually just going to go out and do some traditional funding, like with Creighton Court. But here, because this is the oldest and the biggest, we need to lock in those protections for tenants now," Nesmith said.

CBS 6 is committed to sharing community voices on this important topic. Email your thoughts to the CBS 6 Newsroom.

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Avery Point Residents Benefit from An Array of Outdoor Amenities

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Community CornerResidents can easily spend time outside at the pickleball court, the dog park, & the community garden.Petra Shaw, Community ContributorEvery Tuesday and Thursday in the spring, you'll find Joyce Fratki...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Residents can easily spend time outside at the pickleball court, the dog park, & the community garden.

Petra Shaw, Community Contributor

Every Tuesday and Thursday in the spring, you'll find Joyce Fratkin leading a group of residents on a walk around campus at Avery Point, an Erickson Senior Living community in Short Pump, Va.

"I think it's so good for everybody to walk. It's good for your health. It's good for everything! I really think it keeps you young," says Joyce. "My mother lived to be 100, and she walked every day. I feel like it's in my genes."

In fact, a growing body of research supports the fact that spending time outdoors results in improved health in older adults.

So whether you prefer dining alfresco, spending time with friends around the fire pit, or playing bocce, enjoying the fresh air in a serene environment is just one benefit of living at Avery Point.

"Being outdoors makes me feel better," agrees Joyce.

Find out what's happening in Richmondfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

So much to do

With amenities just steps from their front doors, Avery Point residents can easily spend time outside at the pickleball court, the dog park, and the community garden. Joyce especially likes to join neighbors for a friendly game of bocce.

Residents can also participate in the many events that take place outdoors throughout the year. In the past, community staff members have organized activities for National Dance Day, National Senior Health and Fitness Week, and the Senior Olympics.

"Fitness center team members have held demos of some of their classes outside, so that residents can see what they're about," says Resident Life Director Abby Fuller. "Anybody who comes by is welcome to join in. It's made the classes more accessible."

The community has also hosted a Walk to End Alzheimer's, in which residents and staff walk the "loop" around campus. In 2024, the walk raised more than $25,000 for the Alzheimer's Association.

Last September, Avery Point planned an outdoor carnival for Grandparents' Day, featuring big inflatables, food, and carnival games. "Many residents brought their grandkids, and others just came by themselves," says Fuller. "But everyone had a great time!"

Investing in amenities

Although Avery Point is a relatively new community in the Erickson Senior Living family, additions have already been made to support residents' interests and the community's growth.

The community garden--in which residents are assigned a personal space, either in the ground or in a raised bed, to grow their vegetables or flowers--has really taken off. As a result, Avery Point invested in adding more garden spaces for resident green thumbs.

"We've had high resident interest," says Fuller. "We regularly hear from incoming residents that one of the big reasons they're choosing to move to Avery Point is because they don't want to do yard maintenance anymore, but at the same time, they love their outdoor space."

She continues, "The beautiful thing about living here is that you don't have to do any of the maintenance, but you still have access to all these outdoor amenities just steps away--you get to maintain the physical, mental, and social health benefits."

Joyce agrees. "If I feel a little stress or anything, I go outside," she says. "It always makes me feel better."

Time for family

While Joyce only leads a walking group two days a week, she makes sure to walk on the other five as well.

"I try to get 10,000 steps every day," she says. Having a community of like-minded neighbors makes it easy to find others to join you in the moment. "There's always somebody you can call and say, ‘Do you want to go take a walk?'"

And when she's not out walking, she's often busy hosting her two sons and her three grandchildren, who live in the Richmond, Va., area--and love Avery Point's outdoor amenities just as much as she does.

"They love sitting outside here. If it's a beautiful day but a little chilly, we can sit by the fireplace outside of Magnolia's Bar," she says. "But a lot of times, when they come for lunch and it's nice, we always sit outside."

"There's a lot of social engagement happening here," notes Fuller. "Spending time outdoors has proven to have mental health impacts for people, so it's great for our residents to have these spaces."

Invest in your future self at Avery Point. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free residences, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!

Written by Michele Wojciechowski

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Richmond

United Blood hardcore music festival returns to Richmond after 5-year hiatus

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond’s United Blood music festival made a triumphant return to Shockoe Bottom this past weekend after a five-year hiatus.Hundreds of hardcore, punk, and metal fans from across the country and overseas flocked to the Canal Club for over 30 sets of moshing, stage dives, and community.“I’m coming from California,” said Jennifer Baltazar. “Richmond has a really cool hardcore scene and I kinda wanted to see what it was all about.”David Foster and Colin Ackerman sta...

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond’s United Blood music festival made a triumphant return to Shockoe Bottom this past weekend after a five-year hiatus.

Hundreds of hardcore, punk, and metal fans from across the country and overseas flocked to the Canal Club for over 30 sets of moshing, stage dives, and community.

“I’m coming from California,” said Jennifer Baltazar. “Richmond has a really cool hardcore scene and I kinda wanted to see what it was all about.”

David Foster and Colin Ackerman started United Blood in 2007. After the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the planned event for 2020, many were unsure if the festival would return.

“In that moment, after everything that had happened in the world and after the run that we had had as a fest,” said David Foster, one of the founders, “I felt like I had done and achieved everything we wanted to, and I said maybe that’s the last one. You know, 2019, and we decided not to do another fest.”

But to Foster, after spending the past few years traveling to other hardcore music festivals and seeing his friend’s bands, there was something deep in the pit of his stomach that didn’t love how United Blood ended.

“It felt like it was kind of taken from us,” Foster said.

“Basically, ever since we called it quits,” said Ryan Wall, a promoter of UB and member of Richmond hardcore band Bracewar, “Everybody in this music community has been in our ears begging us, ‘Guys, you gotta bring it back’.”

“The overarching theme that I heard from a lot of kids from here but also a lot of people that travel was that they really missed what United Blood did,” Foster said. “Just how it seemed like this perfect melting pot of all different types of punk and hardcore. But it was special because it was in Richmond and it was just special to the city, to the scene.”

With that confidence from the hardcore scene, United Blood 2025, the 14th festival of the series, was announced last December.

In-person tickets for locals sold out in a day at Vinyl Conflict Record Store, and online tickets sold out in less than 10 minutes, according to Foster.

“I immediately had to buy tickets. I had to be here. Virginia hardcore is the best in the country in my opinion,” said one attendee from San Francisco, California.

Noticeable among veterans who have been part of this music scene for decades was a younger wave of showgoers. Joe Skinner said he enjoys sharing that experience with his son.

“I’m 52 years old, so I’ve been going to shows since the early 90s," Skinner said. "I’ve lived in Colorado for a bit, I’ve seen shows all over, but coming back to Richmond and Richmond having such a scene is huge. My son’s 19 and he’s playing drums in a few bands so he’s immersed in the scene, and he’s going to VCU, so it’s a lot of fun.”

“The coolest thing is when you see kids that are coming to this show like United Blood that have never been to a festival before,” Foster said. “We haven’t had a show in six years, and the last time there was a United Blood, somebody might have been 12 years old. Now they’re 16, 17, 18, and maybe they spent the last five years listening to this stuff and haven’t gotten to see it. So now they get to experience the excitement of seeing bands from all over the world and feeling stoked on it and feeling that energy, and then they say, 'I'm starting a band, I'm writing a demo, we're going to try and get on a show this weekend.' And that's the coolest part of hardcore. It's so tangible. You can go to a show, watch a band play in front of a thousand people. They get off the stage, and you can walk up to that singer and say, 'Thanks man, that was awesome,' and they say, 'Thanks for checking us out.' That's not reality for most music.”

“Hardcore has always been something that a lot of people will tell you it’s a youth movement. It started as a youth movement,” said Wall. “But what’s been really cool to see as time moves on in the greater hardcore scene, people are getting older and still choosing to stay around because they can still find some reason to connect with it. There’s a lot of us that have families, have real jobs, real careers that we work towards but we still find the value in being involved in this and we want to contribute to it and we want to leave it in a better place than we found it for the generation that coming up behind us to carry it forward.”

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Trump administration cancels $12 million grant for planned repairs to Richmond’s water treatment plant

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — President Donald Trump’s administration has canceled a $12 million grant that Richmond was selected to receive for improvements to its water treatment plant in the aftermath of January’s water crisis.In an email sent by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management to the City of Richmond on Friday, April 11...

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — President Donald Trump’s administration has canceled a $12 million grant that Richmond was selected to receive for improvements to its water treatment plant in the aftermath of January’s water crisis.

In an email sent by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management to the City of Richmond on Friday, April 11, the department said the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) had canceled the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Notice of Funding Opportunity for fiscal years 2020 through 2024.

The cancelation of funds came “in alignment with the President’s Executive Orders and under the direction of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Noem,” the email said.

Richmond’s water treatment plant improvements were submitted for the fiscal year 2022, and funds would have been used to repair its feeder channel retaining wall and improve its pre-sedimentation berms, which redirect water flow.

Following the announcement, Mayor Danny Avula released a statement on social media.

“I’m disappointed to learn that FEMA will cancel a $12 million grant that the City was selected to receive,” Avula said. “We’d planned on using these funds to invest in the resilience of our water treatment plant.”

Avula added that the cancelation of funds will not impact immediate operations or delay improvements at the water treatment plant.

In addition, Avula urged FEMA to reissue the grant and said he plans to work with federal representatives.

“By cutting funding for critical infrastructure, the federal government is shifting significant costs directly onto our residents and ratepayers,” Avula said. “I urge FEMA to reissue these funds, and I will work with our federal reps to advocate for our residents.”

Sen. Mark Warner took to social media in the evening on Friday to call the cancelation of tens of millions of funds for resiliency projects across Virginia “unbelievable.”

This comes roughly three months after Richmond and nearby residents were left with little to no water and under boil water advisories for days in the beginning of January following a malfunction at the city’s water treatment plant.

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