Jussie Smollett attack staged?
Questions continue to swirl around “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett this week after reports surfaced Wednesday that Chicago Police classified Mr. Smollett as a suspect in a criminal investigation for allegedly filing a false report.
Ruth E. Carter poised for Oscar win Sunday
It’s a big week for Ruth E. Carter, who on Sunday could become the first African-American to win an Academy Award for costume design for her Afro-futuristic wardrobes in “Black Panther.”
NBA’s Harden ranks right up there with Wilt
James Harden is turning into a modern day Wilt Chamberlain on the basketball court. The Houston Rockets guard is running away with the NBA’s individual scoring championship, much like Chamberlain did more than a half century ago.
Nic Thomas is on fire for NSU
In his inaugural basketball season at Norfolk State University, Nic Thomas seemed content puttering along in the no-passing lane.
‘Bench Bunch’ keeps VCU on top in A-10
Virginia Commonwealth University’s leading basketball scorer doesn’t have a real name, just a nickname. Meet the “Bench Bunch.”
CIAA Tournament starts Feb. 25
Just two days after the CIAA’s regular basketball season ends, the “second season” will begin. The regular season ends Feb. 23, setting the stage for both men’s and women’s tournaments Feb. 25 to March 2 in Charlotte, N.C. A weeklong series of musical, educational and cultural events surround the tournament.
Jaaber looking to spring into Division I competition, boosting the family legacy
Of Chesterfield County’s 11 comprehensive public high schools, Carver College and Career Academy is by far the newest — it’s now in its fourth year — and the smallest with 254 students.
Powerhouse Elexis ‘Lexi’ Edwards a force on national gymnastics scene
When all was well, an abundance of physical power helped Elexis “Lexi” Edwards climb to the top peg of her sport. Unwavering willpower kept her from losing her grip when hard times struck.
Clifton D. Townes, retired city recreation district superintendent, dies at 79
Clifton David Townes helped create vibrant sports and educational programs for city youths during a storied career with the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities.
Personality: Shelia S. Fitzgerald
Spotlight on board president of Big Brothers Big Sisters
Shelia Scott Fitzgerald is president of the board of directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters, which serves Greater Richmond, the Tri-Cities, the Peninsula and Hampton Roads. The Richmond native became involved with BBBS nine years ago because its mission resonated with her.
National NAACP board suspends Henrico Branch president for 2 years
Frank J. Thornton, former president of the Henrico Branch NAACP, has had his membership in the civil rights group suspended for two years. The national NAACP imposed the suspension on Feb. 16 during its quarterly board meeting in New York.
School Board defers vote on cutting 49 jobs
The Richmond School Board postponed voting Tuesday night on Superintendent Jason Kamras’ proposed $300 million operating budget after the board became mired in confusion and chaos.
Black history program Feb. 28 at MLK Middle School
Students and staff of Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School will host a public Black History Month program 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, it has been announced.
VCU to host panel on blackface and racism Feb. 25
Blackface and racism will be the focus of a panel discussion at Virginia Commonwealth University from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 25, it has been announced.
‘March on the Mansion’ slated for Saturday at Capitol
Five state and national groups will host a public rally and march this weekend to continue to press Gov. Ralph S. Northam to resign in the wake of his blackface scandal.
SNAP benefits to be available March 1
All food stamp recipients in Richmond and across the state will receive March benefits on March 1, the state Department of Social Services has announced.
Judges continuing family tradition on local courts
Judge Randall G. Johnson Jr. is going to become a circuit court judge like his late father. And Brice E. Lambert also is headed to the bench where he will continue a family tradition of judicial service.
Duncan chosen to lead RRHA
The board of the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority on Wednesday tapped Damon E. Duncan as the new chief executive officer as the agency continues to struggle to keep the heat on in a small portion of its nearly 4,000 public housing units.
City’s financial forecast projects deficits — even without a new Coliseum
Prospects that Mayor Levar M. Stoney will advance his grand plan to replace the now closed Richmond Coliseum to City Council appear to be dimming. Since November, the plan has remained in limbo, and City Hall remains mum on the plan’s future.
Va. NAACP facing takeover by national?
Is the national NAACP about to take control of the Virginia State Conference of the civil rights group based on member complaints? So far, the national office has declined to comment on any action concerning the Virginia NAACP that was authorized at the Feb. 16 national board meeting in New York.
