Cultural Diversity Center files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

A North Richmond events center that has drawn criticism from neighbors for what they say are large, unruly parties has filed for bankruptcy protection.

The Chapter 11 filing in Richmond federal bankruptcy court came Tuesday, four days after neighbors of the Cultural Diversity Center met to discuss their concerns about the facility.

The center, which has a sign hanging over its front door describing itself as a "banquet, concert and event facility," listed assets of less than $50,000 in its petition to have the bankruptcy court protect it from creditors while the center reorganizes.

The center estimated its liabilities at up to $100,000, including a disputed claim for $75,000 in unpaid rent to New Jerusalem International Christian Ministries, the church that owns the events building on North Avenue, less than one block south of Brookland Park Boulevard.

The only other significant claim by a creditor that the center reported was a $25,000 bank loan, also disputed.

North Richmond residents and community leaders met last Friday to discuss the future of the center, with some participants addressing how the business might succeed in a way that doesn't disturb neighbors.

Those at the meeting expressed concern about violence, including fights and gunfire being reported outside the center, and parties at the facility in which promotional materials enticed girls to wear bathing suits or other skimpy attire.

Freddie Robinson, who is listed on the bankruptcy filing as the president and general manager of FWR Inc., the center's operator, said he no longer plans to have parties for teens.

Robinson said the problems were occurring after the parties, outside the building and out of his control.

The center also hosts church services on Sundays and provides a venue for luncheons, banquets, birthday parties and meetings for nonprofit organizations, Robinson said.

Contact Joe Macenka at (804) 649-6804 or .