Friday, January 29
Work continues on women’s reproductive rights
As President Obama concluded his last State of the Union, his message to the American people was clear, if a little unconventional. He set expectations low of working with the conservative-controlled Congress in his remaining months. However, he set high expectations for the American people. He issued a call to action for all Americans to take our future into our own hands, urging us to fulfill our civic duty by voting, engaging in public service and even protesting. Looking ahead to a year full of peril and opportunity for black women’s reproductive health, I can say that black women already are heeding this call.
Voter registrar ‘needs to be replaced’
Kudos to Richmond Free Press reporter Jeremy Lazarus for his recent exposé on Richmond Voter Registrar Kirk Showalter. She is incompetent and needs to be immediately replaced.
ACA eliminates barriers to health care
The passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) promised to improve the delivery of health care services in America — especially for historically disadvantaged communities that suffer high rates of chronic illness. The ACA has begun to deliver on that promise, but work still remains to ensure all who need healthcare in the most prosperous nation on earth can receive it. Healthcare.gov is now available for the open enrollment period through Sunday, Jan. 31. It’s imperative that members of the African-American community take advantage of this opportunity to access the coverage and care they need.
Palin family hypocrisy
Since former half-term Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin erupted on the national scene by telling everyone she could see Russia from her porch in Alaska, she has been lecturing everyone about accepting responsibility. For example, speaking to Tea Party supporters in Nashville in 2010, Ms. Palin said, “My plan is quite simple. To support those who support the foundation of our country when it comes to the economy. It is free-market principles that reward hard work and personal responsibility.”
History’s change agents
Monday, Feb. 1, marks the start of Black History Month. Schools, churches, civic organizations and businesses of all types, including the media and public television, begin paying special attention to African-Americans and their long history of political, cultural, social and civic contributions to the building of this nation.
Bishop McKissick to speak at VUU Founders Day Feb.5
Bishop Rudolph W. McKissick Jr., senior pastor of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church in Jacksonville, Fla., will speak at Virginia Union University’s 2016 Founders Day celebration at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 5, in the Allix B. James Chapel of Coburn Hall on the campus.
HIV/AIDS awareness program set for Feb.7
The 3rd Annual United Voices: Raising Awareness Through Song & Word, an event to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, will be 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 7, at Thirty-first Street Baptist Church in the East End.
State of Black America Address moved to Feb.6
The 4th Annual State of Black America Address has been rescheduled.
Vatican: Iran must join fight against terrorism
Pope Francis held talks with Iran’s president at the Vatican on Tuesday, calling on Tehran to play a key role in stopping the spread of terrorism as Iran tries to improve its image in the global arena following an agreement on its nuclear program. The pontiff warmly clasped the hand of President Hassan Rouhani in the first official call paid on a pontiff by an Iranian president since 1999. They held 40 minutes of private talks before President Rouhani met with other top Vatican officials. The talks “delved into the conclusion and application of the nuclear accord, and the important role that Iran is called upon to play, together with other countries of the region, was highlighted,” the Holy See stated.
VSU coach calls it quits
By Fred Jeter Virginia State University is looking for a new football coach — again. After posting a 6-4 record in his only season with the Trojans, Coach Byron Thweatt, 38, has resigned to become the linebackers coach at James Madison University.
MLB icon Lee Smith almost had basketball career
Before Lee Arthur Smith became one of baseball’s ace relief pitchers, he was affectionately known as “that other guy” back home in tiny Castor, La. Smith, a guest at the Richmond Flying Squirrels’ annual Hot Stove Banquet last Thursday at the Siegel Center, spoke of the day his sporting focus shifted from basketball to baseball.
VCU eyeing 11th straight win Friday
From mid-December to mid-January, it would be hard finding a more dominant college basketball team than the Virginia Commonwealth University Rams. Since Dec. 15 when the record was 5-5, Coach Will Wade’s squad has won 10 straight games with an average victory margin of 17.2 points.
Former VSU Coach Harold Deane to be honored Feb.6
Harold Deane served Virginia State University for more than a half century as athlete, coach and educator. Now it’s VSU’s turn to give back.
Local players help MJBL teams to victory
Richmond coaches and players took on big roles in helping the Metropolitan Junior Baseball League mark its 50th anniversary providing youth baseball during the nonprofit organization’s recent East-West All-Star games in Daytona Beach, Fla., and Savannah, Ga.
VIA Heritage Association to induct inaugural Hall of Fame group
Numerous athletes, coaches and contributors from the Richmond area have been named to Virginia Interscholastic Association Heritage Association’s (VIAHA) inaugural Hall of Fame Class. The induction banquet will be 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 20, at DoubleTree by Hilton in Charlottesville, 990 Hilton Heights Road.
Wilder returning to alma mater for book signing Feb. 2
Former Gov. L. Douglas Wilder is returning to his alma mater, Virginia Union University, for a book signing and a discussion of his new autobiography, “Son of Virginia: A Life in America’s Political Arena.”
Art exhibition Feb. 5 at Pine Camp
The city’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities will host an exhibit at the Pine Camp Arts and Community Center featuring area African-American artists.
Black History Museum opening delayed
The new Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia is unlikely to be open during Black History Month.
Painter, sculptor Thornton Dial dies
McCALLA, Ala. Self-taught artist Thornton Dial, who transformed discarded junk into sculpture and painted in bright colors and bold lines, has died at his home in Alabama. He was 87.
Sherron Mills, former VCU basketball standout, dies at 44
Former Virginia Commonwealth University basketball star Sherron Mills died Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016, of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Mr. Mills was 44 and lived in Baltimore.
Personality: Amber J. Adams
Spotlight on president of Richmond Metropolitan Chapter of NABA
In 1969, only 136 of the nation’s 100,000 certified public accountants were African-American. In response to that dismal lack of representation, nine African-American accountants met in New York to discuss the quandary faced in their profession. They formed the National Association of Black Accountants to address the concerns of minorities entering the accounting profession and to make a commitment to professional and academic excellence. They chose a theme/motto for the nonprofit organization: “Lifting As We Climb.”
TIME features photo by Regina H. Boone
Award-winning photographer Regina H. Boone has pricked the nation’s conscience with her poignant photograph of a rash-covered child affected by the lead-contaminated water in Flint, Mich. The former Richmond Free Press photographer’s image of 2-year-old Sincere Smith is featured on the cover of the Feb. 1 edition of TIME magazine.
‘Let Freedom Ring’ initiative aimed at healing America
Descendants of Thomas Jefferson, the nation’s third president, and Sally Hemings, the African-American woman he enslaved and fathered six children with, are scheduled to gather at historic First Baptist Church of Williamsburg at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 1.
Heating woes continue to plague Creighton Court residents
Tina Marie Smith finally has a working radiator on the first floor of her Creighton Court apartment. The only problem: It doesn’t produce much heat. And it hasn’t, she said, since maintenance workers from the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority installed it three weeks ago.
GOP-controlled General Assembly bucks McAuliffe’s choice in court drama
The fate of Virginia Supreme Court Justice Jane Marum Roush is expected to be determined this week, with expectations that she will once again fail to win General Assembly election to remain on the state’s highest court. In the latest twist in this continuing drama surrounding a judicial appointment, the House of Delegates is to vote Thursday, Jan. 28, on whether Justice Roush is to receive a 12-year appointment on the state Supreme Court or be forced to step down by mid-February.
Bus Rapid Transit would cost $3.6M annually to operate
GRTC would need a larger city subsidy to keep the proposed Bus Rapid Transit service called Pulse in operation, but perhaps not as big as some critics have suggested, according to the company. In a report released Sunday, Greater Richmond Transit Co. estimates that Richmond taxpayers would need to provide between $345,000 to $775,000 a year to cover the city’s share of BRT operations. The actual amount depends on whether BRT is a hit with commuters and attracts additional daily riders.
Paydazed in RVA
High-fee payday loan traps Henrico man
Running short of money to pay bills, Donald Garrett did what many people do — he turned to a payday lender. He borrowed $100 from a small loan company called Advance ‘Til Payday on Nine Mile Road near his Henrico County apartment in order to catch up. Four months later, he had wracked up $320 in fees and still was unable to pay off the original $100. Until a friend stepped in and paid off his debt, he faced paying $80 each month. To pay the loan off, $100 had to be added to the $80 payment.
Wednesday, January 27
Violent crime in city down in 2015
Mayor Dwight C. Jones and Police Chief Alfred Durham trumpeted a major decrease in violent crimes committed in the city during 2015 at a news conference last Friday. But the grim reality of crime’s impact on the community was illustrated when Charlene Boone stepped to the podium during the officials’ announcement last Friday at the Richmond Police Training Academy.
Congressional district change may cost city $60,000-plus
Call it an unexpected expense. Richmond might have to cough up between $60,000 and $80,000 to notify city voters that they have been moved from the 3rd Congressional District to the 4th Congressional District.
Repaved areas of Chamberlayne Ave. uncover more defects
A repaved stretch of Chamberlayne Avenue already is falling apart, less than a year after being repaved for the world bike races held in Richmond last September. The problem pavement also undermines Mayor Dwight C. Jones’ claim that such paving for the races would last up to 10 years.
Federal appeals court upholds $2M award
Thousands of women who suffered injuries from a transvaginal mesh product that was implanted to resolve pelvic problems could benefit from a federal court decision.
Friday, January 22
Dr. Franklin issues call to action at Community Leaders Breakfast
The state’s No. 1 cheerleader, Gov. Terry McAuliffe, drew enthusiastic applause as he delivered impassioned remarks and extolled a bipartisan approach to solving the state’s problems at the 38th Annual Community Leaders Breakfast last Friday honoring the life and legacy of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Seniors wage fight against TV cable
I live in a high-rise building along with 200 senior tenants. We are forced to deal with Comcast and the cable company’s high prices.
Presidential candidates profess to love the Lord but ignore message
Re editorial “Fat Cat Tuesday,” Jan. 7-9 edition: Too many people who profess to love the Lord show by their actions that their true love is money when the CEO of Walmart has a salary 1,034 times that of the median employee salary. He is someone who doesn’t mind losing his soul so long as he can gain the whole world.
Is it really about the tree?
Several years ago, I was in Seattle and visited the African-American museum there. They had a display on Maggie L. Walker, and as a Richmonder, I was the proudest person in the museum.
The white man’s rage
Have you heard? Apparently large numbers of American adults are “angry” about their own circumstances and about where they think the country is headed. For months, numerous politicians, pollsters and pundits have touted this anger as an important factor in the line-up of who’s supporting who in both the Republican and Democratic presidential primary campaigns.
Flint: A lesson in callousness
Flint, Mich., is impoverished. The auto plants have closed. Forty percent of the city’s 100,000 residents live below the poverty level. It is majority minority. It has been in fiscal crisis since 2011, with the state taking over budgetary control and a state-appointed “emergency manager” driving policy focused on cutting spending.
Apology please
We are waiting for all the haters out there to apologize to President Obama. The “birthers,” as they have been dubbed, made such a clamor in challenging where President Obama was born and whether he legally was able to hold the office of president of the United States.
Primary vote
Like bad pennies, Sarah Palin and Bill Clinton have turned up again. This time, both are back on the campaign trail.
Accountability without games
We lodged our grave concern last week in this space about the uncomfortably close relationship between the city’s director of public works and Mayor Dwight C. Jones’ church.
Wyatt T. Walker to be honored at VUU events
Civil rights icon and Virginia Union University alumnus Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker will be honored at events on the campus of his alma mater Thursday, Jan. 28, through Saturday, Jan. 30.
Award-winning poet Sonia Sanchez to speak Saturday at Film Festival
The Afrikana Independent Film Festival is introducing its “Evening with an Icon” film series with award-winning poet Sonia Sanchez. Ms. Sanchez, 81, will participate in an audience discussion about her life and work after a screening of the documentary about her, “BaddDDD Sonia Sanchez.”
VMFA to continue jazz café
Enjoy the smooth sounds of jazz for free at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Lack of diversity prompts Oscar boycott announcement
Director Spike Lee and actress Jada Pinkett Smith plan to boycott next month’s Academy Awards ceremony because black actors were shut out of nominations. The Academy acknowledged this week that it needs to do more to promote diversity after the Oscar nominees for acting that were announced last Thursday lacked black performers for a second straight year.
VUU takes game from VSU by 2 to claim Freedom Classic win
Long-limbed and athletic, Ray Anderson is gifted with excellent speed, quickness and jumping ability. Yet he does some of his best work standing still. In helping Virginia Union University win the Freedom Classic 70-68 over Virginia State University last Sunday at the Richmond Coliseum, Anderson left the Trojans in a “foul” mood.
VCU Rams prevail in overtime against UR
Anyone who has ever played the arcade game Whac-A-Mole can understand the frustration of Virginia Commonwealth University’s basketball foes. Each time you knock down one mole — in VCU’s case, containing one high scorer — another pops up. Consider:
Charles Oakley, Charlie Stukes among 2016 inductees into Va. Sports Hall of Fame
For the second year in a row, a former Virginia Union University basketball center has been named to the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. Charles Oakley, the NCAA Division II Player of the Year for VUU in 1985, will be inducted April 30 at the Renaissance-Portsmouth Norfolk Waterfront Hotel in Portsmouth.
Pistons retire ‘Big Ben’ Wallace’s No.3
Ben Wallace wasn’t heavily recruited out of high school in Alabama. Nor was his name called in the NBA draft following a career at Virginia Union University. Despite that, he goes down as one of basketball’s all-time greats on the low post.
Hiring one, firing one among NFL black coaching ranks
The Cleveland Browns have turned to journeyman Hue Jackson to jumpstart the stalled franchise. The 50-year-old Jackson, most recently offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals, is accepting what has been the NFL’s version of mission impossible. Since 1999 when the “new” Browns were born in Northeast Ohio, the franchise has gone 87-185, with just two playoff games (losses in 2002 and 2007). Coach Mike Pettine, after two years on the sidelines, was fired after going 3-13 this last season as the latest casualty on the coaching merry-go-round.
Seek solutions to today’s problems in working to realize Dr. King’s dream
“I came to help keep his memory and his dream alive. This is the least I can do after what he did for us,” said Barbara Moon after attending the 38th Annual Mass Meeting on Monday that honored the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The retired Richmond Public Schools teacher was among a few hundred people who braved sub-freezing temperatures to attend the inspiring community gathering at Cedar Street Baptist Church of God in the East End on the national holiday honoring Dr. King.
Sheriff Woody gives final salute to deceased veterans
Two soldiers and a sailor who died in Richmond will be buried next week with full military honors thanks to help from Richmond Sheriff C.T. Woody Jr.
Petersburg bomb dog remembered in service
The Petersburg Sheriff’s Office paid a final tribute this week to a faithful deputy — Tex, a bomb detection dog. The German shepherd was fondly remembered by his colleagues at a memorial service Wednesday afternoon in the office of Petersburg Sheriff Vanessa Crawford.
Pulpit to politics, remembering Leonidas B. Young II
The Rev. Leonidas B. Young II rose from the pulpit of historic Fourth Baptist Church in the East End to the pinnacle of Richmond political power, serving as the city’s mayor from 1994 to 1996. Elected to Richmond City Council representing the East End’s 7th District from 1992 to 1999, he was considered a rising political star by many at the time.
Personality: Lillie A. Estes
Spotlight on Mothers of Courage Award winner
Lillie A. Estes first got involved in efforts to improve the community as a high school student in Newport News. Friends urged her to join the NAACP Youth Council.
Bus Rapid Transit
Can Richmond afford to maintain proposed expensive bus service?
Can Richmond afford to operate the proposed Bus Rapid Transit system that promises speedier travel and is described as the biggest revamp in public bus service in the city in at least 50 years?
Private money dries up for Kanawha Plaza project
Last July, Richmond City Council gave Mayor Dwight C. Jones’ administration the green light to overhaul 35-year-old Kanawha Plaza, the three-acre park that sits across from the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. The council acted after being assured that virtually all of the $6 million cost would come from gifts from big corporations and law firms located near the park.
Richmond Public Schools losing budget director during critical season
Richmond Public Schools is losing one of its chief budget architects as the School Board and Superintendent Dana T. Bedden prepare to kick off their budget negotiations for fiscal year 2017 with Mayor Dwight C. Jones and Richmond City Council. Betsy Drewry, RPS director of budget and planning, will leave her position Friday, Feb. 5, to become director of budget and finance for Prince George County, she told the Free Press at Monday’s School Board meeting at City Hall. Ms. Drewry is exiting after 18 months in the position. She was the Prince George school system’s budget chief for 14 years prior to coming to Richmond.
Health care enrollment event rescheduled for Jan. 30
With snow expected this weekend, Celebrate Health- care has changed the date for its Richmond Enrollfest to Saturday, Jan. 30, for people to enroll in health insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act’s Federal Health Insurance Marketplace. The event originally was scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 23.
Source: City Hall knew Adediran was managing church project
It was no secret at Richmond City Hall that city Public Works Director Emmanuel O. Adediran was doubling as project manager for a new $5.3 million sanctuary that First Baptist Church of South Richmond is building in Chesterfield County, the Free Press has learned. According to a highly knowledgeable source, “everyone knew (Mr. Adediran) had been asked by the mayor to help with the church project.”
Saturday, January 16
Tree not sole obstacle at Maggie Walker site
Too small and too congested with traffic. That reality is starting to clash with the vision of creating a $600,000 to $800,000 plaza and statue celebrating Maggie L. Walker at the intersection of Broad and Adams streets and Brook Road in Downtown.
Challenger seeks to overturn results of postal union election
One of Richmond’s oldest labor organizations — the Old Dominion Branch Local 496 of the National Association of Letter Carriers — is engulfed in an election fight. The fight is over the election of Thelma J. Hunt as the first female president in the branch’s history, which dates back to 1893.
Friday, January 15
Losing vacation time ‘is not severe enough punishment’
Re “Auditor: Top city administrator used city time to work on mayor’s church,” Jan. 7-9 edition: This story has the potential to give the city a negative rating by outsiders as well as our own residents. My question is did any other top officials know he was doing this?
Dr. King’s principles and voice will guide future generations
On March 25, 1968, Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, among the leading theologians and Jewish philosophers of the 20th century, spoke what many historians believe to have been prophetic words about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Only 10 days before he was assassinated, Dr. King was keynote speaker at a birthday celebration honoring Rabbi Heschel. The rabbi introduced him to an audience of at least 500 other rabbis with the following words:
Remove the shame
We are ready to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s state and federal holiday Monday, Jan. 18, with a day of activities intended to inspire, uplift and encourage people everywhere to continue working toward the ideals of equality preached by the late civil rights leader.
Salvation needed
Like most of us, Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones has a lot to pray about. Unfortunately for him, it’s about his church, First Baptist Church of South Richmond, and the city. Unfortunately for us, the Richmond taxpayers, it’s about his church and the city — and the intersection of the two apparently without transparency or accountability.
Freedom Classic comes to Coliseum Sunday
It’s fitting that someone from historic Yorktown has helped spark a basketball revolution at Virginia State University. The reasons are numerous why VSU has vaulted from the bottom to the top of the CIAA standings. You can start the list with versatile 6-foot-8 junior Elijah R. Moore, aka “ERM,” from Yorktown’s Grafton High School.
Praying to put an end to ‘senseless acts of violence’
Kenneth Williams said he was compelled to take a leap of faith to stem the city’s homicides after he attended the funeral last month of 12-year-old shooting victim Amiya Moses. “It was the saddest thing I witnessed in my life,” said Mr. Williams, a trustee at First Baptist Church Centralia in Chesterfield County and CEO and director of the Richmond-based Adult Alternative Program to help ex-offenders re-integrate into society. “I was so angry about her senseless death.”
Denzel receives top Golden Globe award
Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington joined the ranks of Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro when he was awarded the Golden Globe for lifetime achievement Sunday.
Area events to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Several community celebrations will be held to honor the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Shaka Smart loses match to Tubby Smith
Two of NCAA basketball’s more prominent African-American coaches, both with ties to Virginia Commonwealth University, went head-to-head Saturday, Jan. 2, in Lubbock, Texas.
VIA to discuss creation of Hall of Fame Saturday
The Virginia Interscholastic Association Heritage Committee will meet at noon, Saturday, Jan. 16, at Vincenzo’s Restaurant, 609 Boulevard, in Colonial Heights.
Former area football standout signs with Hampton University
Former L.C. Bird High School sensation Yahkee Johnson has signed a full National Letter of Intent to continue football next season at Hampton University.
Yay Rah Rah!
Armstrong’s Rashaundra Thomas hits 1,000 points
Rashaundra Thomas has a long name, a short frame and an often dazzling game. The 5-foot-3 Armstrong High School senior, who answers to “Rah Rah,” is the Wildcats’ first 1,000-point basketball scorer since Denise Winn in 1994.
Chaise Johnson eyeing options after Steward School
Like many star high school guards, Chaise Johnson has speed, court smarts and a keen shooting eye. Unlike most, he also has a former NBA first-round draft choice as his longtime tutor. The Steward School all-time scorer credits Cory Alexander — San Antonio’s first-round draft pick in 1995 — with advancing his development.
MJBL celebrates 50th anniversary with games in Ga., Fla.
When his son was banned from Richmond area Little League baseball programs because of the color of his skin, physician William M.T. Forrester Sr. took action.
Lee Smith guest at Flying Squirrels charity event
Seven-time Major League Baseball All-Star relief pitcher Lee Smith will be among the star attractions at the Richmond Flying Squirrels Charity Hot Stove Banquet.
Pope Francis’ new book asks church to reach out to marginalized people
Pope Francis calls in his new book for Roman Catholic leaders to be compassionate shepherds to a “wounded humanity,” not lofty scholars quick to condemn and exclude people who don’t obey church teachings. The book, “The Name of God Is Mercy,” breaks no new ground but is a compelling restatement of the themes of Pope Francis’ papacy told in simple, breezy language in a freewheeling conversation with veteran Italian journalist Andrea Tornielli.
General Assembly to present resolution to A.M.E. church Jan. 19
“Virginia A.M.E. Day” will take place Tuesday, Jan. 19, at the Virginia General Assembly. There, a House and Senate Joint Resolution will be presented to Bishop William P. DeVeaux, presiding prelate of the Second Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church that includes Virginia, North Carolina, Washington and Maryland.
In wake of terror attacks
Kaine: Will you hold on to your principles, faithfulness?
Religious leaders and community members of various faiths exchanged smiles, hugs and well wishes as they made new acquaintances Sunday at Congregation Beth Ahabah near Virginia Commonwealth University. Several hundred people gathered at an event designed to promote religious tolerance and nonviolence. Many wore the head coverings of their religions — Muslim women wearing hijabs, Sikh men in turbans and some Jewish men wearing kippahs. The occasion was the first “Standing Together” faith unity gathering organized by the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities.
Spencers to be honored with lifetime achievement awards
Two veteran Richmond judges will be among the honorees at the 14th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Awards Program and Reception that Fifth Street Baptist Church will host during the holiday honoring Dr. King.
Monte Irvin, who helped integrate major league baseball, dies at 96
Monte Irvin, a trailblazing baseball star and the oldest surviving Negro Leagues player, died Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016, of natural causes at a retirement community in Houston. He was 96. Had it not been for a contractual issue with the Negro Leagues’ Newark Eagles in New Jersey, Mr. Irvin — and not Jackie Robinson — might have been the first African-American to play in the modern big leagues. Eagles owner Effa Manley would not allow Brooklyn Dodgers owner Branch Rickey to acquire Mr. Irvin without financial compensation.
Julia Melton Thornton, 91, longtime educator
Before she began teaching class each day at Virginia Union University in the Department of Education, Julia M. Thornton recited a saying to her students from Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, the late educator-philospher and former Morehouse College president.
Personality: Brandi M. Daniels
Spotlight on Health Equity Hero Award winner
Brandi M. Daniels serves on the front lines for the most vulnerable in the East End as the executive director of the East District Family Resource Center.
Obama cheered
President Obama took aim on Tuesday at Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump and accused critics of playing into the hands of the Islamic State in a speech meant to cement his legacy and set a positive tone for his final year in office. Delivering his last annual State of the Union speech to Congress as president, he called for leaders to “fix” U.S. politics and criticized candidates such as Mr. Trump for using anti-Muslim rhetoric that betrayed American values.
Martin Luther King Jr. holiday schedule
In observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, Monday, Jan. 18, please note the following:
Crusade for Voters to meet Jan.19
Delegate Sam Rasoul of Roanoke is scheduled to speak at the Richmond Crusade for Voters meeting 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19.
Mayoral hopeful hosts symposium
It had all the appearances of an event designed to promote her candidacy for the Richmond mayor’s job. But Richmond City Council President Michelle Mosby denied that to be the case this week during the Mayoral Symposium that featured three current and former female African-American mayors from across the nation.
City booted from Rep. Scott’s 3rd District in judicial order
Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott no longer will represent Richmond in the U.S. House of Representatives if the decision of a three-judge panel sticks.
Voter registrar explains plan to stop poll problems
Mistakes happen. That, Richmond Voter Registrar Kirk Showalter told the state Board of Elections, is the reason why some voters were given the wrong ballots and had trouble being checked in to vote during the Nov. 3 election. However, she said changes are being put in place to ensure that the problems that led to numerous complaints do not recur in upcoming elections.
Tuesday, January 12
Virginia Legislative Black Caucus outlines priorities
“We call ourselves ‘18 Strong,’ ” said Hampton Sen. Mamie Locke, chair of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, that has 18 members in the General Assembly. “We see ourselves as 18 strong voices seeking to do what’s right, not just for constituents in our districts, but speaking for those who don’t see themselves as having voices,” she told the Free Press last week.
Henrico sheriff may take on Rep. Brat for GOP nomination
U.S. Rep. David A. “Dave” Brat, R-Henrico, could face a Republican challenger in his bid for a second two-year term representing the 7th District. Fresh from winning re-election, Henrico Sheriff Michael L. “Mike” Wade filed paperwork before Christmas with the Federal Election Commission setting up a campaign committee.
Richmond School Board elects new chairman
“I think we are at a critical time at our tenure and at a critical juncture in making progress in Richmond Public Schools. I felt compelled to continue the progress that we have made.” Jeffrey M. Bourne, 3rd District, told the Free Press on Tuesday that’s why he agreed to serve as chair of the Richmond School Board.
Help available to enroll in health plans
Sunday, Jan. 31, is the deadline for people to enroll in health insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act’s Federal Health Insurance Marketplace. Celebrate Healthcare will hold several Enrollfests, including three in the Greater Richmond area, to help people who want to enroll.
Author gives money to Albert Hill Middle
Best-selling author James Patterson has given a $3,000 grant to Richmond’s Albert Hill Middle School to support its school library. The grant is to help the school at 3400 Patterson Ave. increase the library’s collection, according to a release from Richmond Public Schools
Friday, January 8
Auditor: Top city administrator used city time to work on mayor’s church
Mayor Dwight C. Jones, who also serves as senior pastor of historic First Baptist Church of South Richmond, scrambled Wednesday to contain a potential scandal involving a top member of his administration who attends his church. The mayor’s goal: To quell any suggestion that First Baptist Church members who hold city jobs are allowed to conduct church business on city time.
Donating old phones helps fight domestic violence
If you’re looking for an easy way to give back this new year, consider donating your old cell phones to HopeLine, Verizon’s signature philanthropy program that helps those affected by domestic violence.
Statue, plaza need to be done right
The legacy of Maggie L. Walker has been for decades a guiding light that shines on the heritage and values of the African-American community of Jackson Ward. A lighted statue that hails her many achievements is a statue long past due in the city of Richmond.
Find other ways to spend $600,000
I was both saddened and angry by the headline and article regarding the planned Maggie Walker statue. The city is willing to spend $600,000 on this site, which is now the designated “gateway to Jackson Ward,” which I had assumed was North Belvidere Street.
There should be no distractions
Re “Strange Fruit? Critic: Oak evokes lynching image at Walker statue site,” Dec. 24-26 edition: Gary Flowers is oh so right. Mr. Flowers understands the process of concentration. The tree and the statue each require individual attention.
Athletes, dollars and progress
As the University of Alabama football team prepares to line up against Clemson University on Jan. 11 in Glendale, Ariz., to decide the national collegiate football championship, it’s worth noting that the Crimson Tide wouldn’t be “rolling” in success and the money that accompanies it without its African-American players led by 2015 Heisman Trophy Winner Derrick Henry.
Fat Cat Tuesday
When the work day ended Tuesday, top bosses in the United Kingdom earned more than the average worker will in a year. Think about that: On just the second work day of 2016, the fat cats running the European nation’s top 100 companies would have earned more than their employees will during the next 11 months-plus.
Beyond tears
We appreciate President Obama’s courageous action Tuesday ordering stricter gun laws to curb the out-of-control firearm violence that is plaguing communities across the United States. He has done by executive order what the spineless politicians in Congress and the Virginia General Assembly have failed to achieve because they have been bought and paid for by the National Rifle Association and like zealots.
VUU’s Kiana Johnson leads CIAA all around the ball
Fueled by transfer Kiana Johnson, the Virginia Union University women’s basketball team has taken off like a rocket. The 5-foot-7 dynamo leads the CIAA in scoring (24.8 points per game), assists (8.2 per game) and steals (4.2 per game) while steering the Lady Panthers to an 8-1 takeoff under first-year Coach AnnMarie Gilbert. Inheriting a squad coming off a 9-18 season, Coach Gilbert felt she needed a quality point guard to jump start her inaugural season on Lombardy Street.
Rams wreak ‘Havoc’ at home and on the road
“Havoc” is alive and well at Virginia Commonwealth University, even though its founder, former Coach Shaka Smart, has left for Austin, Texas. In examining the Rams’ recent basketball statistics, you’d hardly suspect Coach Smart had been replaced by Coach Will Wade.
Henrico High gym becomes ‘Buckingham Palace’
It’s about time for De’Monte Buckingham to be entered into the discussion of the Richmond area’s all-time, high school basketball greats. At least since the 1970s, few players have piled up more points — and more championships — than the Henrico High School megastar.
Tiger at 40
Ten days after Tiger Woods turned 24, he picked up his 16th career PGA Tour victory by beating Ernie Els in an epic battle at Kapalua.
2016 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees
They can only be described as sculptors. They are responsible for the making and shaping of strong communities. They are the 2016 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History who are being honored at a ceremony next month. The honorees were announced this week by Dominion and the Library of Virginia, sponsors of the annual program celebrating the outstanding achievements of African-Americans.
VUU hosts annual Community Leaders Breakfast Jan.15
The 38th Annual Community Leaders Breakfast honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held 7:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at the Claude G. Perkins Living and Learning Center at Virginia Union University, 1500 N. Lombardy St. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Robert M. Franklin Jr., president emeritus of Morehouse College.
Dr. Royal named chief of staff at HCA hospitals
Dr. Erica M. Royal’s medical responsibilities have increased exponentially in 2016. The Richmonder is the new chief of the medical staff at HCA’s Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, Parham Doctors’ Hospital and Retreat Doctors’ Hospital.
John Marshall-Thomas Jefferson alumni basketball game Saturday at Ashe Center
Past basketball greats from John Marshall and Thomas Jefferson high schools will face off for a good cause. Former players from both schools will tip off at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at the Arthur Ashe Jr. Athletic Center, 3001 N. Boulevard.
Personality: Robert N. Barnette Jr.
Spotlight on board chairman of Virginia Alliance Against Mass Incarceration
Robert N. Barnette Jr. says he was inspired to accept the position as board chairman of the Richmond-based Virginia Alliance Against Mass Incarceration after reading “Billion Dollar Divide,” a report by the Justice Policy Institute in April 2014. “I wanted to lend my voice to a worthy cause,” he says.
Margaret C. Crews, 80, left mark as Richmond teacher
Margaret Edwina “Wina” Clay Crews loved literature and was passionate about guiding children through their formative years. For 35 years, the Richmond native followed those passions to leave an indelible mark of excellence on hundreds of children as an English teacher with Richmond Public Schools.
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 in 2004, he wrote part time for the Richmond Free Press from 2005 through 2007. He also wrote for Style Weekly.
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 because of a deficiency of melanin, the pigment that darkens skin, and that white people oppressed black people out of fear of black domination.
‘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 Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles from “ongoing health issues,” her family said.
‘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 of “Amen” and “Hallelujah” when she said, “Black churches, we need your help. We need for you to be a voice for the voiceless,” she stressed. She urged audience members to step outside the walls of the church to perform community service and become active in groups such as the NAACP that work for social change. The Bible, she said, has more than 300 verses speaking to seeking social justice and helping the poor.
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.
Bill seeks to expunge teen drug arrest records
Young people in Virginia who are convicted of marijuana possession or underage possession of alcohol find those convictions permanently etched on their criminal records. Historically, many of those convictions have fallen disproportionately on African-Americans, even though numerous studies show white people use alcohol and marijuana at similar rates.
27% Black-owned businesses gain from Stone Brewing project
Black contractors have quietly played a big role in the development of the Stone Brewing Co.’s new East Coast brewery off Williamsburg Avenue in Fulton, according to city records. For example, Glen Allen contractor Dwight Snead and his employees prepared the land for construction, the city Office of Minority Business Development (OMBD) report shows.
RRHA resident’s chilly 3-year ordeal
For the past three years, Tina Marie Shaw has had to rely on an electric space heater to keep the winter cold out of her public housing unit in Creighton Court. “I worry about the heater starting a fire,” said Ms. Shaw, who looks after her 9-year-old grandson, Xavia, her pride and joy and an honors student at a Richmond elementary school. To avoid risk to herself and the child, “I unplug (the heater) at night when I go upstairs to bed, and turn it on in the morning.”
Thursday, January 7
Obama wept
His executive order aims to halt gun killings
Wiping back tears as he remembered children killed in a mass shooting, President Obama on Tuesday ordered stricter gun rules that he can impose without Congress and urged American voters to reject pro-gun candidates.
Friday, January 1
City finishes with money loss on UCI bike race
Remember the world bike races that dominated Richmond for nine days in September? To Mayor Dwight C. Jones and other officials, the races were an unparalleled success, creating an economic boost for the region and putting the area in the world cycling spotlight.
Threat may come from within, not from refugees
Re Letter to the Editor, ‘Why let anyone come to your country?’ Dec. 17-19 edition:
‘Chief Durham is a keeper’
Before a recent Richmond City Council meeting, I observed Police Chief Alfred Durham standing among other city administration officials. With hat in hand, he left the group and walked across the chamber to shake hands with a patrolman on his assigned post. His actions were a true representation of leadership and teamwork. Can you imagine the morale that inspires?
Tree, statue represent positive images
Re “Strange fruit? Critic: Oak evokes lynching image at Walker statue site,” Dec. 24-26 edition: Dr. Kim Coder of the Warnell School of Forestry at the University of Georgia wrote in November 2010 that the “live oak is an ecological and cultural icon of the Southern United States.
Maggie Walker, tree site
Oak’s true symbolism echos Walker’s legacy
Re “Strange fruit? Critic: Oak evokes lynching image at Walker statue site,” Dec. 24-26 edition: Approximately 30 years ago, I was contracted by the City of Richmond to plant the tree in question at West Broad and North Adams streets.
Collective goals for 2016
Whenever we begin a new calendar year, it can be useful to make New Year’s resolutions to prioritize and focus for the immediate future. What should be our collective goals and strategic objectives during the next 12 months? Recent academic studies by the Dominican University of California on the importance of goal setting to overcome individual and social procrastination revealed that writing down your resolutions and sharing your goals with others you care about will help you work more diligently to achieve those goals.
Real ‘Woman of the Year’
Jannie Ligons is an Oklahoma City grandmother who left a friend’s house to drive home. She collided with Daniel Holtzclaw, the rogue police officer who seemed to think it was part of his duty to sexually abuse black women. He raped them because he could. They did not accuse him because they feared they could not. Some of the women had criminal records — they had been involved with drugs or had other skirmishes with the law. They felt both vulnerable and violated, and they thought nobody would believe them.
Personal stories, songs inspire ‘Motown:The Musical’
Motown’s music, magic and legends had the world dancing in the streets in the 1960s and 1970s. Audience members will want to dance again when “Motown: The Musical” comes to Richmond Tuesday, Jan. 5, through Sunday, Jan. 10, at the Altria Theater.
RVA New Year’s Eve party at Siegel Center
Will Richmonders pay ticket prices ranging from $20 to $30 for general admission and $50 for VIP seats to attend the community New Year’s Eve celebration at its new location at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Siegel Center? We’ll know soon enough.
Downtown ice rink to extend hours during final weekend
There’s good news for ice skating enthusiasts in the Richmond area. The city’s RVA on Ice is extending its hours of operation on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
War veterans wanted for writing project
The Mighty Pen Project teaches military veterans how to best write the stories of their wartime experiences. The class “is open to all Virginia veterans and civilians alike at no cost, and will focus on furthering the craft of writing about the experiences of war, the warrior’s life, the home front and the military family,” according to organizers.
$5.5M gift gives Dominion naming rights to CenterStage
Utility giant Dominion Resources soon will plant its flag on the downtown performing arts complex now known as Richmond CenterStage. With a $5.5 million gift from its charity arm, the Dominion Foundation, the company is to gain naming rights to the complex that includes the Carpenter Theatre, the Libby S. Gottwald Playhouse and other arts operations.
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 its sign display.
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
Harlem Globetrotters star dies at 83
In winter 1960, an advertisement appeared in the Waynesboro News-Virginian announcing the Harlem Globetrotters were coming to town.
Sister of Seattle’s star has star power of her own
It’s no surprise Anna Wilson is having a sensational senior year in high school playing basketball. The surprise is that she’s playing on America’s West Coast instead of in Richmond’s West End.
Hall of Fame to consider Allen Iverson
Allen Iverson has moved ahead of schedule for his likely arrival in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Rules require an individual to have been officially retired four years prior to induction.
Jackie Robinson statue to grace Dodger Stadium
When fans arrive at Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium in 2016, they will be treated to a new sight — a statue of baseball icon Jackie Robinson. With the theme “Leveling the Playing Field,” the Dodgers have contracted sculptor Branly Cadet for the assignment. The statue is expected to be between 9 and 10 feet tall.
Personality: Bruce S. Richardson Sr.
Spotlight on winner of VHDA’s Service to Virginia Award
“Equal access is paramount,” declares Richmond Realtor Bruce S. Richardson Sr. of providing access to homeownership to all people.
Bill Cosby posts $1M bond after sex crime arrest
Bill Cosby was charged Wednesday in Pennsylvania with sexually assaulting a woman in 2004 after plying her with drugs and alcohol. The arrest marks the only criminal case against the once-beloved performer whose father-figure persona has been damaged by dozens of misconduct accusations.
Cleveland police officer not indicted in fatal shooting of Tamir Rice
National civil rights leaders are expressing disappointment and calling for new policies after a Cleveland grand jury on Monday refused to indict the police officer who shot and killed 12-year-old Tamir Rice only seconds after encountering him with a toy gun.
Toasting the new year
Staying clean, sober can be daunting during the holidays for those in recovery
Foremost wishes for 2016
With the start of 2016, the Free Press invited select state and city officials to share their foremost wishes for the new year. Here are their responses.
This past year has been one of great accomplishments for our city. We successfully hosted the World Championships of cycling and showcased our city around the world like never before. We completed a deal that makes us the new East Coast home of Stone Brewing Co., the ninth-largest craft brewery in the country, bringing development and jobs to a long-neglected part of town. We are moving forward with establishing an expanded public transportation system with Bus Rapid Transit and we’ve secured Richmond’s place as an inland branch of the Port of Hampton Roads, to name a few achievements.
New Fulton housing development on drawing board
Richmond’s apartment boom is heading east into the Fulton community. The former Robert Fulton Elementary School, long a haven for artists, is proposed to be a centerpiece of a 266-unit, $38 million apartment complex to be called Studio Row.
Superintendent says $26.5 M increase needed for city schools
Pay now or pay later in negative repercussions that would largely impact the city’s most vulnerable residents. That was the urgent plea Richmond schools Superintendent Dana T. Bedden issued Dec. 14 as he unveiled an estimate of needs for the district for fiscal year 2017. He requested about $26.5 million more than the current budget contains and that would raise the total schools budget to $298 million.
CAO scraps plan to use energy savings for upgrades
Mayor Dwight C. Jones’ administration has killed a plan to use energy savings to finance critical improvements to more than 30 aging city buildings, the Free Press has learned. The city’s chief administrative officer, Selena Cuffee-Glenn, quietly made the decision in the past few weeks. She did so after Siemens, the company the city hired to provide a detailed proposal, offered to undertake $13 million in improvements to city buildings that would be repaid over time from savings the city achieved from cutbacks in electricity and natural gas use.
Longtime Broad St. business to close
For 70 years, Moore’s Auto Body and Paint Shop Inc. has been a fixture at 401 W. Broad St. But that is about to change as one of the city’s oldest African-American-owned businesses prepares to close. Owner Jesse Moore, 71, disclosed Monday that he has sold the nearly quarter-acre property and will shut down the auto body operation there at the end of the month.
Concealed weapons permits from 25 states not valid in Va.
Concealed handgun permits held by residents of 25 states no longer will be valid in Virginia, the state’s attorney general said Tuesday, drawing swift criticism from GOP lawmakers. Attorney General Mark Herring, a Democrat, said the state will revoke its reciprocity agreement with the states because their concealed weapon laws don’t meet Virginia’s standards. Those states hand out permits to fugitives, convicted stalkers and drug dealers, which undermines Virginia’s law and puts residents at risk, he said.
