Former Free Press writer, Don E. Dale, dies at 73
Donald Edward Dale was known for his ready smile, quick wit and sharp intellect. He had a multitude of talents, working as a public relations specialist with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts for more than 25 years. After retiring …
Dr. Frances C. Welsing, 80, renowned psychiatrist best known for her views on the origins of white racism
Dr. Frances Cress Welsing used her platform as a psychiatrist in the nation’s capital to battle white supremacy. Dubbed the “Queen of Black Consciousness,” she won attention for her views on white racism, including her assertions that white racism is …
‘Unforgettable’ Grammy winner Natalie Cole mourned at 65
Grammy Award-winning singer Natalie Cole, whose biggest hit came in a virtual duet with her late father, the legendary Nat King Cole, of his decades-old hit “Unforgettable,” has died. Ms. Cole, who was 65, died Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015, at …
‘We need to rebuild, renew and refocus,’ Emancipation Day speakers say
One after another, speakers at the 75th Annual Emancipation Proclamation Day Worship Celebration at Fifth Baptist Church in the West End passionately implored listeners to get involved in community betterment. Lynetta Thompson, president of the Richmond Branch NAACP, drew shouts …
Event supporting Muslim community Sunday, Jan.10
The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and several partner organizations are hosting “Standing Together,” a public event featuring speakers and panelists from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds exploring themes of interfaith understand- ing, solidarity and community.
Sign’s messages inspire passers-by
Motorists slow down and often do double takes as they drive by Chicago Avenue Baptist Church on South Side. The reason: The church at 2331 Broad Rock Blvd., led by Dr. Marlon Haskell, features lots of creative, eye-catching messages on …
Historic church in Alexandria pledges $1M to Smithsonian
Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, one of the nation’s oldest historically African-American churches in the nation, has pledged $1 million to the Smithsonian’s new National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Muslims must relearn faith to counter Islam’s critics, imam says
In the bustling conservative Fatih district, Imam Fadel Solimon looks at the floor and nods as a young woman asks him for advice on how to respond to criticism of Islam on Twitter.
‘Meadowlark’ Lemon
In winter 1960, an advertisement appeared in the Waynesboro News-Virginian announcing the Harlem Globetrotters were coming to town.
Church must boot Parson to clear bankruptcy
The future of an embattled South Side church may hinge on whether it can completely cut ties with its founding pastor. As part of a financial plan clearing the way for the once giant Richmond Christian Center to emerge from …
Emancipation Day service Jan. 1 at Fifth Baptist Church
The Rev. Elmore E. Warren Jr., a Richmond native and pastor of Whitestone Baptist Church in Baltimore, is scheduled to preach at the annual community service in Richmond to mark the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. The commemoration that also …
Temple of Judah to hold service at jail Dec. 25
Men and women at the Richmond Justice Center once again will benefit from the work of the Temple of Judah. Bishop Melvin Williams Jr. and the temple’s congregation are continuing a long tradition of providing Christmas cheer to those spending …
Benefit gospel concert Jan. 10 at Va. Union
Capital City Lodge #107 of the 26th Masonic District is presenting its annual gospel concert 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10, in Coburn Hall at Virginia Union University.
Seminary president lends voice to national letter
Count Union Presbyterian Seminary President Brian K. Blount is among those calling for an end to anti-Islamic rhetoric and religious intolerance toward the Muslim community.
Faith leaders, elected officials call for calm, respect for Muslims
Imam Ammar Amonette said he and the 2,000 members of his congregation at the Islamic Center of Virginia in Bon Air have seen the ugly face of hate in the wake of the recent terror attacks by Muslim extremists in …