365 Days

A sidewalk chalk shrine made by neighborhhod kids decorates the steps on the front porch of the Harvey family house. (Dec. 29, 2006) ERIC DAVIS/TIMES-DISPATCH

One year ago many Richmonders had their whole world view shaken right down to the roots at the news of the murders of Bryan, Kathryn, Stella and Ruby Harvey in their home, on New Year's Day. Throughout this past year there have been a number of milestones, both beautiful and horrific, that have marked the path through these 365 days. I think the trials were hardest for me personally. As each one passed I felt myself let out a sigh of relief. A little bit of the weight comes off with each one.

I don't know if I'm the only one who saw January 1st looming ahead somewhat menacingly. Another marker in the road...but maybe the last of the really hard ones. It's been one year since that terrible day and I am so proud of Carytown for ringing this day in right. Rather than allow New Year's Day to lurk as the dark anniversary of terrible loss, the merchants chose to throw a great party (benefiting the Harvey Foundation and The Byrd Theater). Kudos to Carytown for choosing to banish the boogymen and reclaim New Year's Day for optimism, fun, and thoughts of the future. It's the right way to remember them well.

Update:
Another good article in the T.D. about the NYE festivities in Carytown.

It was as if Richmond-area residents wanted a massive dose of togetherness and harmony to end a crazy and violent year that began with the New Year's Day massacre of the Harvey family, said Todd Schall-Vess, manager of the Byrd Theatre and the man who designed and built the ball.

Kathryn Harvey operated the World Of Mirth shop in one of the blocks anchoring the street party.

"We really -- more than a lot of years past -- needed a point to say, 'This is where it starts over,'" Schall-Vess said. "This is where we start anew again."

More here...