Cityscape // Slices of life and scenes in Richmond Call it the latest fashion for trees. This designer skirt now decorating a tree at Maymont in the West End is the product of a sophomore draping class at Virginia Commonwealth University. This is one of the trees students in the class outfitted in completing their final project. Along with creating a new look, the students were required to use materials that could withstand sun, rain, wind and other weather conditions.

Courtesy of Henrico County Dedication to dedicated worker // Elvin R. Cosby, 90, the longest-serving Henrico County employee, breaks into applause when he is surprised Monday with the county naming of a street in his honor. The new street, Elvin Cosby Way, is located within the Henrico County Government Center off Parham Road and connects Prince Henry and Dison Powers drives. Mr. Cosby, who still serves as a maintenance supervisor for the Henrico Department of Public Works, was first hired by the county 72 years ago on April 23, 1946. In 2015, the county established the Elvin R. Cosby Award to recognize longtime employees for outstanding contributions and service. Next month, Mr. Cosby is to be recognized with the Judith M. Mueller Local Government Service Award from the American Public Works Association for his continuous service to the county.

Irises in the West End

ICA grand opening // Virginia Commonwealth University students and community members join in the grand opening Saturday of the new Institute for Contemporary Art at Belvidere and Broad streets. The new 40,000-square-foot center includes a reflecting pool where visitors lounged and enjoyed music during the opening community block party.

Sonja Holt, left, and Dawn Howard peruse a display in the exhibition “Storm in the Time of Shelter” by artist Paul

The ICA is free and open to the public.