Friday, July 29
‘We finally have a governor who attempted to right wrongs’
When will the Republicans in the General Assembly stop the racist endorsement of continuing to maintain the Virginia Constitution to deny primarily African-Americans the right to vote? The amendment (at the center of the lawsuit) was designed in the 1901-1902 Constitutional Convention as a means to keep us from voting.
‘$20 at the store doesn’t do anything but make you sad’
I am a reader of your newspaper. And many times, you have things in your paper that hit home with me. I am 71 years old and live on North Side. I am thankful to the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority for low-income housing.
Don’t swallow the lies
Last week, I spent my evening hours viewing television and looking at the circus that formally was labeled by the networks as the Republican National Convention.
Corporate leadership needed on racial justice
When North Carolina passed laws eliminating anti-discrimination protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, and passed its “bathroom bill” mandating that transgender people use the bathroom of their birth gender, they experienced almost immediate backlash.
November hope
In politics, nothing and no one are perfect. But we give high marks to the newly minted Democratic team running for president and vice president in 2016. Hillary Clinton, the nation’s former first lady who has established herself as a U.S. senator, trusted secretary of state under President Obama and now presidential candidate, has chosen Virginia’s own Tim Kaine as her vice presidential running mate for November.
Youths take action to promote healing, peace
When Alton Sterling was killed by police July 5 in Baton Rouge, La., the nation watched as his 15-year-old son cried inconsolably at the loss of his father.
Art by youths in Richmond detention center on display at DNC
Large self-portraits born out of Richmond’s ART 180 program with young people incarcerated at the Richmond Juvenile Detention Center are on display this week at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia.
Latin Jazz Festival at Dogwood Dell Aug. 20
The rhythms of Latin music will fill Dogwood Dell next month at the 9th Annual Latin Jazz and Salsa Festival.
VSU’s Cameryn Smith CIAA Woman of the Year
Virginia State University’s Cameryn Smith, a first baseman on the Trojans softball team, is CIAA Woman of the Year. With that, the recent VSU graduate from Powhatan High School qualifies as a candidate for the NCAA Division II Woman of the Year.
Richmond Black Widows fall 20-18 in championship game
Three failed extra point tries kept the Richmond Black Widows from a perfect ending to their inaugural season in the Women’s Football Alliance.
Matt Jones ready to run for D.C. team
About 100 football players wearing the Washington NFL team’s burgundy and gold will converge on Richmond this Thursday to commence preseason drills.
Pace returns to VUU gridiron as grad student
Miles Pace may have enjoyed the best half season in Virginia Union University football history. Now the Panthers are eager to see what the powerful Floridian can achieve in an entire campaign as he returns to the gridiron as a 23-year-old graduate student.
‘I can no longer stay silent’
Michael Jordan donates $2M to build police-community trust
Michael Jordan is trying to help ease tensions between African-Americans and the law enforcement community. The NBA great and Charlotte Hornets owner said Monday he is giving $1 million to the Institute for Community-Police Relations and $1 million to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. The aim is to help build trust following shootings around the country.
Washington NFL team hopes high court will OK its use of racist name
While the Washington professional football team may be hoping for a winning season, it also may be quietly hoping for a turn of events this fall in the federal courts where, as on the gridiron, it has suffered a series of setbacks over use of its nickname.
Public ‘Stop the Violence’ rally July 31 to highlight national funeral directors conference in Richmond
More than 1,200 funeral directors, morticians and embalmers are expected to attend the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association Inc.’s 79th Annual Convention and Exposition that starts Saturday in Richmond.
Henrico cemeteries to get county historic marker
Tommy Edwards, the late R&B vocalist best known for his hit song, “It’s All in the Game,” is buried there. So are the late state Sen. Benjamin J. Lambert III and his brother, the late Richmond attorney Leonard Lambert, as well as the descendants of Jesse Pryor Sr., a former slave.
Discussion of sex hampers black church from dealing with AIDS
The Rev. Edwin C. Sanders II sized up his audience at the 21st International AIDS Conference here and uttered instructions one wouldn’t normally expect to hear from a minister.
Pastor whitewashes history of Southern Baptist denomination
Dr. Robert J. Jeffress Jr., senior pastor of the First Baptist Dallas megachurch, is the most prominent evangelical pastor to back Republican Donald Trump’s candidacy for president.
Personality: Connie McGowan
Spotlight on organizer of RVA Community Unity
Connie McGowan was devastated after the shooting deaths by police of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, La., and Philando Castile in Falcon Heights, Minn. She also was disturbed by the shooting deaths of five police officers in Dallas a day later by an Army veteran. But not for long.
Nate Thurmond, record-setting NBA player, dies at 74
In October 1974, Nate Thurmond did something no NBA player had ever done. It was Mr. Thurmond’s debut with the Chicago Bulls, and he recorded the first NBA quadruple-double: 22 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists and 12 blocked shots in a game against the Atlanta Hawks.
Kaine’s history readies him for VP role
He has been Richmond’s mayor, Virginia’s governor and a U.S. senator. Now Sen. Timothy Michael Kaine — whom everyone calls “Tim” — has leaped to the national stage as Democrat Hillary Clinton’s running mate.
Charges dismissed against officers in Freddie Gray death
None of the six Baltimore police officers accused in the death of Freddie Gray will end up behind bars. Wednesday, Baltimore’s top prosecutor, Marilyn J. Mosby, who had vowed to hold the officers accountable, dropped all charges against the three remaining Baltimore police officers facing trial in connection with Mr. Gray’s death.
Va. Supreme Court turns back clock on restoration of felons’ rights
David Mosby, 46, had tears in his eyes when he registered to vote for the first time in his life. That was three months ago.
‘Black and blue’
African-American police officers straddle uncomfortable worlds
The ambivalent emotions that black police officers experience are as old as the first time an African-American put on a badge and walked a beat in the black community. But they seldom have been expressed with the clarity and force of the words that Baton Rouge, La., Police Cpl. Montrell Jackson posted on Facebook on July 8.
City’s economic promises with NFL training camp have yet to materialize
Richmond has yet to receive a big chunk of the promised payoff from the much touted economic deal that resulted in Washington’s pro football team holding its summer training camp in the city, according to a Richmond City Council member.
National Night Out slated for Aug. 2
“National Night Out” returns next week to promote community connections and ties with law enforcement.
CVWMA expands recycling materials
Richmond residents can now recycle a greater range of bottles and food containers, the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority has announced.
That’s the ticket
Hillary Clinton shatters glass ceiling with historic presidential nod
Hillary Rodham Clinton swept into history Tuesday as Democrats, eager to present a face of unity to a national television audience, chose her to be the party’s standard-bearer in the Nov. 8 presidential election.
Tuesday, July 26
GRTC seeks public’s ideas at four meetings
Imagine GRTC buses arriving every 15 minutes on major city thoroughfares such as Chamberlayne Avenue and Hull Street? That’s the idea the bus company and the City of Richmond are considering as officials ponder ways to improve public transit in Richmond.
VSU organizations recognized by HBCU Digest
Virginia State University has been named “the best” in two categories by HBCU Digest. The Ettrick university’s latest wins came during an awards ceremony last Friday in Washington.
City health department offering free sports physicals
The Richmond City Health District will provide free sports physicals to high school and middle school youths ages 13 and older at the Gilpin and Hillside Community Resource centers.
Boulevard RFQ on hold
Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones’ administration has tem- porarily pulled back from seeking development teams for the redevelopment of the 60 acres of land the city owns on North Boulevard around The Diamond.
Friday, July 22
Kudos to Free Press
Re “Church fashion show to benefit victims of domestic violence,” June 2-4 edition:
Don’t be afraid to look in your own house
I have a problem with parents who are afraid to go into their children’s bedrooms or sleeping quarters. The shooter of the five police officers in Dallas lived at home. The shooter at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., lived at home.
Sometimes ‘dangerous’ people haven’t been diagnosed with a mental illness
Re Editorial, “One recipe for change,” July 14-16 edition:
The status quo
Like millions, I am shocked and appalled by the needless killing of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, five Dallas police officers, and three Baton Rouge police officers. Respect for humanity requires that we reject, in the strongest terms, the unwarranted and unjustified taking of life. I search earnestly for answers to the “why?” of their executions and the reason that, after 240 years, our nation still sustains a level of racial hatred and intolerance that fuels these acts of violence. Anyone giving an honest look at our national tragedy of racial violence, especially the epidemic of cop-on-citizen homicide, will agree that we, as a nation, have a conflict of major proportion that must be addressed and resolved if any of us are to live with the assurance of even a modicum of peace. The back and forth response of violence and retaliation can only lead to our mutual destruction.
Gun violence demands action
As the Republican Party holds its national convention in Cleveland, Americans remain shaken by the shootings of police in Dallas and Baton Rouge, La., following the police shootings of black men in Baton Rouge and Falcon Heights, Minn. I spoke at the funeral of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, weeping with his family and friends as they remembered and mourned their loved one who was slain on July 5 by police officers.
Stolen culture, stolen words
First it was Elvis taking our music. Then it was Bo Derek co-opting our cornrows.
A clear reason to vote
If ever we need a good reason or motivation to vote, it’s here. Look no further than the Republican National Convention in Cleveland.
Gordon Parks exhibit opens Saturday at VMFA
An exhibit featuring works by the noted late photographer Gordon Parks opens Saturday at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The exhibit, “Gordon Parks: Back to Fort Scott,” will be on view through Oct. 30 at the museum, 200 N. Boulevard. It features 42 photographs that examine life during segregation in 1950s America.
Richmond area dancer wins bronze medal in National ACT-SO Competition
A Richmond area student won a bronze medal in dance at the national NAACP ACT-SO Competition. Keola Jones, a rising junior at Henrico High School’s Center for the Arts, was the lone member of the Richmond Branch NAACP team to win a medal in the ACT-SO events held during the NAACP’s annual convention in Cincinnati.
5th Annual VUU Burning Sands Alumni golf tournament July 30
The Burning Sands Alumni Football Club of Virginia Union University will host its 5th Annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, July 30, at The Golf Club at Brickshire, 5520 Virginia Park Drive in Providence Forge.
ASALH executive director recruiting at July 28 meeting at VUU
Sylvia Y. Cyrus, executive director of the Association for the Study of African-American Life and History, will participate in a community meeting to recruit volunteers and panel members for the organization’s 101st national conference slated to be held in Richmond in October.
New UR program offers beer brewer certificate
Responding to the explosion of breweries in Central Virginia, the University of Richmond will begin offering this fall a yearlong program to train professional brewers.
Auditions Aug. 8 for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’
New Castle Theatre Company will hold auditions for Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun” 7 to 10 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, at The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen 2880 Mountain Road in Glen Allen. Callbacks will be 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9. Paid roles are available for seven men ages 20 to 45; three women ages 19 to 24, 28 to 35, and 50 to 65; and one boy ages 10 to 12.
Work to continue Saturday at historic cemeteries
The work to restore historic, but neglected, Evergreen and East End cemeteries will continue this weekend, Marvin Harris, a leader in the effort, has announced.
Mayoral candidate town hall July 26
Fourth Baptist Church will host a public town hall meeting for Richmond’s mayoral candidates 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 26, at the church, 2800 P St., in the East End.
Evangelicals gather on D.C. Mall to pray during ‘Together 2016’
Evangelical Christians converged on the nation’s capital last Saturday for a prayer rally on one of the hottest days of the summer. With the nation reeling from recent shootings and shocked by news of a terrorist attack in France and an attempted coup in Turkey, speakers at “Together 2016” cited the global events from the stage and spoke of the challenges facing Americans. “Jesus can heal our nation,” said former Southern Baptist Convention President Ronnie Floyd to applause and cries of “Amen.”
On Mandela’s birthday, a call to reflect, volunteer
“Nelson Mandela International Day,” formalized by the U.N. General Assembly in November 2009, recalls the late South African president’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom on his birthday — July 18.
Faith facts about GOP VP candidate Mike Pence
Indiana Gov. Mike Pence will be Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump’s running mate. Mr. Trump made it official July 15 — fittingly in a tweet.
Richmond women’s football team heading to championship
The Richmond Black Widows were born last August with a “want ad” seeking female football players on Meetup.com. A dozen or so curious women showed up for the first meeting, and a spark was lit. Then those women told their friends.
African-Americans made their marks at early Olympics
When it comes to inclusion of African-American athletes, the U.S. Olympic track and field team got nearly a half-century head start on other high-profile sports. In 1904, George Poage became the first African-American to represent the United States in the Olympic games. The event was held that year in St. Louis, in conjunction with the World’s Fair.
Former VUU standout signs with Finland team
Kiana Johnson is heading for Finland. The former Virginia Union University basketball sensation has signed a contract with the Forssan Alku team in Forssa, Finland.
VSU basketball signs 2
Virginia State University basketball coach Lonnie Blow Jr. has added two building blocks to an already strong foundation. Coming off its first CIAA championship since 1988, Coach Blow has announced signing 6-foot-8 junior college transfer Richard Granberry and 6-foot-6 incoming freshman Andrew Corum.
NSU basketball team to play in Costa Rica
Norfolk State University is getting a jump start on the 2016-17 basketball season.
Bradley helps AL to All-Star victory
Richmond was well represented at the Major League Baseball All-Star Game on July 12 in San Diego. Jackie Bradley Jr., the starting left fielder, went 2-for-2, helping the American League to a 4-2 win over the National League.
Personality: Tyra Hayes Beaman
Spotlight on Fulbright and Rangel fellowships recipient
Long before Tyra Zuri Hayes Beaman graduated with honors from Spelman College in May 2016, she was working toward becoming a U.S. foreign service officer by studying abroad in Argentina, Uruguay, Haiti and South Africa.
After 26 years, Judge Roberts retiring from juvenile court
For 26 years, Judge Angela Edwards Roberts has been a presence in the Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. Along with her colleagues, she has dealt with all the sad, messy issues involving individuals and families — ranging from cutody battles to stalking and domestic abuse to teens involved in bad behavior and criminal activity. She also has experienced the joy of helping create families through adoption. “The work we do is emotionally draining,” Judge Roberts said. “We see everything that goes wrong with society. People come to us when they
Va. Supreme Court hears felon voting rights restoration case
Did Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe have the power to issue a blanket order restoring the rights of more than 200,000 felons?
Third time a charm?
Black-owned business hopes to find success at NFL training camp
Herman Baskerville is optimistic about the start next Thursday of the 2016 summer training camp in Richmond for Washington’s professional football team.
Planning commission gives Walker statue final oK
Coming soon: The statue and memorial plaza honoring Richmond great Maggie L. Walker at a gateway to the historical African-American section of Downtown known as Jackson Ward.
Richmond Public schools seeking volunteers for cleanup projects
Volunteers are being sought to carry out projects to beautify city schools next week.
Baton Rouge works to heal after shootings
BATON ROUGE, LA. On the affluent south side of Baton Rouge, a clutch of plastic balloons bobs in front of the gas station where a former Marine shot and killed three police officers last Sunday. On the impoverished north
Police killings – and killings of police – a major issue at NAACP convention
An estimated 10,000 delegates from throughout the country converged on Cincinnati for the national NAACP’s 107th annual convention here that began last Saturday.
Hayden is new Librarian of Congress
The U. S. Senate has confirmed Dr. Carla D. Hayden as the 14th Librarian of Congress. The 74-18 vote for the nominee of President Obama for the key position came on July 13. Dr. Hayden is the first African-American and first woman to hold the position. Her appointment at the Library of Congress is for 10 years.
Say what?
Donald J. Trump wins Republican nomination after wife steals speech from Michelle Obama
CLEVELAND Donald J. Trump crossed the threshold of history the way he ran the Republican race: Soaked in drama, surrounded by back-stabbing, jeered by well-heeled critics as a no-hope ama- teur, cheered by a die-hard base and embraced at the finish line by his family.
City seeking developers for the Boulevard project
City Hall finally is ready to seek developers for its biggest economic development project — the redo of the 60-acre city property on North Boulevard where The Diamond baseball stadium and Arthur Ashe Jr. Athletic Center now stand. Two months behind schedule, Mayor Dwight C. Jones’ administration expects to issue its request for qualifications (RFQ) this week seeking deep-pocket bidders interested in transforming the property over 20 years into apartments, condos, retail outlets and office space.
Hunt elected president in letter carriers union re-vote
Thelma J. Hunt is officially the first woman to lead one of the oldest union organizations in Richmond — the Old Dominion Branch 496 of the National Association of Letter Carriers.
Gooden new state secretary of agriculture and forestry
Dr. Basil I. Gooden is well suited for his new job as Virginia’s secretary of agriculture and forestry. Dr. Gooden grew up raising beef cattle on his family’s farm in Buckingham County. He also was appointed by President Obama as Virginia director of rural development for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in May 2014. In announcing Dr. Gooden’s appointment to the state cabinet position July 7, Gov. Terry McAuliffe praised him for his leadership and vision.
Va. Legislative Black Caucus member wins Dem nomination for state Senate
Chesapeake Delegate Lionell Spruill Sr. appears to be on his way to the state Senate. The 22-year General Assembly veteran easily won the Democratic Party nomination Saturday in a “firehouse” primary that was called to find a replacement for Sen. Kenneth C. Alexander, who left the General Assembly after winning the May election for mayor of Norfolk. He assumed the office July 1.
Friday, July 15
Maggie Walker statue is 80 years overdue
I write with renewed disquiet over what appears to be the stalling of the Maggie Walker statue at the corner of Broad and Adams streets in Downtown.
‘This is more than a gut check; it’s a soul check’
We look upon the tragic deaths in Minnesota, in Louisiana and in Dallas in recent days with sadness, anger, grief, confusion and certainly compassion, but it’s not nearly enough. This is more than a gut check; it’s a soul check. Our souls are being tested by the sobbing young man whose dad was shot and killed at point-blank range by one of two police officers who had him pinned to the ground.
‘Our anthem is tinged by a troubled history’
On July Fourth, I rose, removed my hat and placed my hand over my heart as the band played the national anthem in Dogwood Dell at the beginning of the annual patriotic celebration.
‘It should not come as a complete shock’
In the aftermath of the Dallas shooting tragedy, television pundits are attempting to make sense of it all. That a black man would set upon police officers with a high-powered weapon and voice desire to kill white people, especially white officers, is astonishing to many.
‘Nobody wins with this deep racial hatred and daily murder’
Let us all pray for the Dallas officers who were shot by a sniper, five of whom are now dead. Let us pray for their families and the families of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, who were shot dead by terrorist police who must be brought to justice and not let off.
Williams a rising activist
“The burden of the brutalized is not to comfort the bystander. That’s not our job, alright, stop with all that. If you have a critique for the resistance, for our resistance, then you better have an established record of critique of our oppression. If you have no interest in equal rights for black people then do not make suggestions to those who do. Sit down.” — Jesse Williams
Requiem for black people
Lorenzo Collins, Michael Carpenter, Roger Owensby Jr., Timothy Thomas, Amadou Diallo, Patrick Dorismond, Kenneth Walker, Sean Bell,
One recipe for change
Last week, we called in this space for an end to the epidemic of deadly violence by police against African-Americans and people of color in this nation.
Stories to inspire a better community being told
The Hippodrome Theater in Richmond’s historic Jackson Ward was buzzing Saturday evening as 400 people of all ages and races — from young adult hipsters to older city dwellers — mingled with drinks in hand while a DJ rocked the turntables. They were there for “Secret Stories of Self-Determined Change,” a sold-out event organized by UnMonumental in collaboration with Untold RVA and Secretly Y’all.
Students learn leadership through Maggie L. Walker summer institute
Eight area high school students participating in the Maggie L. Walker Summer Youth Leadership Institute spent a recent morning learning about Richmond’s slave-trading past in Shockoe Bottom.
Sisters reign at Wimbledon
Serena Williams proved her star power and tennis mastery once again when she won both the single’s title and, with her sister, Venus, also claimed the doubles title Saturday at Wimbledon.
Queen Harrison misses Olympic qualification by less than a second
If she were from any other country, Queen Harrison likely would be making plans to compete in the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Varner headed to British Open
Someone is needed to fill a void in diversity on the PGA tour, and Harold Varner III just may be the man for the job. The 25-year-old PGA rookie is the first African-American to cause a stir on the circuit since Tiger Woods’ decline began in 2009.
Youth enjoy tourney hosted by Flying Squirrels
Two Richmond youth baseball teams enjoyed a taste of victory last Friday and Saturday in Chesterfield County. The Richmond Hornets and a squad from the Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL) competed in the fourth annual Richmond Flying Squirrels Regional Youth Tournament for youngsters ages 12 and under at Harry G. Daniel Park at Ironbridge.
Historical marker dedication Saturday for Prince Hall Masons
A state historical marker will be dedicated in Petersburg this weekend to commemorate the founding 140 years ago of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia.
Renowned Harvard law professor discloses Alzheimer’s diagnosis at A.M.E. conference
A Harvard law professor who taught both President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama told fellow members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church that his faith is helping him cope with a personal diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. “I’ve made up my mind to be thankful for what I have rather than focus on what I may lose,” an emotional Charles Ogletree said in his bicentennial message at a banquet where, on July 6, 3,000 people kicked off the 50th quadrennial General Conference of the denomination in Philadelphia.
Rev. Canon Allan R. Wentt, 84, retired rector of St. Philip’s Episcopal, dies
Richmond has lost an acclaimed Episcopal church leader and a renowned vocal artist. The Rev. Canon Allan R. Wentt, 84, who served for 17 years as rector of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church before retiring in 1996 after a nearly 50-year career as a priest, died Tuesday, July 5, 2016, at his home in Richmond.
Frank Tennyson Jr., businessman, sports coach, succumbs at 51
“Be great!” was a favorite expression of Franklin “Frank” Delano Roosevelt Tennyson Jr., who strived to live up to his mantra through his dedication to sports and his family.
Personality: Gracetta Washington-Young
Spotlight on the new president of the Central Virginia Business and Construction Association
Gracetta Washington-Young believes Richmond’s African-American and minority-owned businesses should have a greater voice in their own development.
Gravely resigns NAACP post
After three weeks of mulling the decision, Jack Gravely is stepping down as interim executive director of the Virginia State Conference of the NAACP. He delivered his resignation Monday via email to state NAACP President Linda Thomas and other members of the executive board.
A Zika virus cure?
Research at VCU supports claims of new antiviral drug
When he first published a paper 18 months ago detailing a kind of “miracle” drug that could destroy every virus and bacteria that plagues mankind, Virginia Commonwealth University researcher Paul Dent found his work derided as too good to be true.
Richmond Alternative School staying put
Richmond Public Schools’ alternative program is staying put. A plan by the Richmond schools administration to move the Richmond Alternative School from its West Leigh Street location in Jackson Ward failed to win approval from the Richmond School Board during a June 30 meeting.
Sanders gives Clinton the nod
Portsmouth, N.H. Democrat Bernie Sanders endorsed former rival Hillary Clinton for president in a display of party unity Tuesday, describing her as the best candidate to fix the nation’s problems and beat Republican Donald Trump in the Nov. 8 presidential election.
Saving officers, distrusting police
When officers who’d been shot by a sniper in downtown Dallas started showing up at Parkland Memorial Hospital, trauma surgeon Dr. Brian H. Williams went to work, pushing aside the inner conflict he faces every day as a black man who’s fearful himself when encountering police.
Chief Brown no stranger to tragedy
Dallas Police Chief David O. Brown, a familiar face following last week’s shooting deaths of five police officers in Dallas, is no stranger to tragedy.
From Baton Rouge to Minneapolis, why black lives do matter
It is an irrefutable premise that all lives matter, but recent tragedies from Baton Rouge, La., to Minneapolis to Dallas have evinced that some restrictions apply.
Trump rejects invitation to speak at NAACP convention
The NAACP says Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has declined an invitation to address the group’s upcoming convention, flouting established precedent and highlighting anew the GOP standard-bearer’s struggle to attract support from non-white voters.
Anguish of a nation
From memorial services to protests, numerous questions arise after senseless killings
“Can we all get along? Can we get along? Can we stop making it, making it horrible …?” The late Rodney King spoke those memorable words as he called for calm in 1992 after the acquittal of four white police officers who were videotaped savagely beating him triggered riots in Los Angeles.
Wednesday, July 13
GRTC route cuts scheduled for Aug. 21
GRTC plans to eliminate two bus routes in Richmond and shrink service on a third city route later this summer to cut costs. The cuts come amid the transit company’s preparations for the start of construction of the $63 million Bus Rapid Transit service that is expected to be in operation within 16 months.
Foundation approves funds to preserve 2 historic cemeteries
Volunteers working to restore two overgrown andneglectedAfrican-Americancemeterieson the border between Richmond and Henrico County are getting significant state support.
Former governor eligible to receive state pension
Former Gov. Bob McDonnell is once again eligible to receive his state pension and practice law now that he is no longer a felon.
Voting rights rally July 19 to coincide with hearing on Va. restoration of rights case
A Stand Up for Voting Rights rally will take place 8 a.m. July 19 at the Bell Tower in Capitol Square at 9th and Franklin streets.
Chavis to lead initiative at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Duron Chavis is leaving Virginia State University to join Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden as its first community engagement coordinato
New physics lab, majors at VUU
A new physics laboratory, and new majors in physics and cyber security at Virginia Union University, are expected to boost the number of students who want to pursue careers in cyber security.
Friday, July 8
Death penalty for Roof won’t stop the hatred
Re “Federal authorities seek death penalty in S.C. church massacre,” May 26-28 edition: Killing Dylann Roof, the Charleston church shooter and racist who wrapped himself in the Confederate flag, with the death penalty will not end the layer of white supremacy in the nation. Who do you think the major supporters of Donald Trump are?
Airbnb working to correct discrimination
You learn a lot about the character of an organization when things go wrong. For the team at Airbnb, hearing the outcry from African-American travelers who were denied lodging because of discrimination was one of these moments. I know, because I met with them in San Francisco in early June to discuss this challenge.
Affirmative action upheld
In many instances, the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent affirmative action ruling upholding the University of Texas’ affirmative action program was overshadowed by a same-day order overturning President Obama’s executive order to ease illegal immigrants’ path to U.S. citizenship.
Stop the violence
The deadly violence by police against African-Americans and other people of color continues unabated. The latest victim, 37-year-old Alton Sterling, was killed Tuesday outside a convenience store in Baton Rouge, La. As the graphic video shows, he had been wrestled to the ground and restrained by one police officer when another shot him five times at point blank range in his chest and back.
Exhaling
Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton must be exhaling today after learning she’s off the hook criminally for her imprudent way of handling emails containing classified materials.
‘We are The Wilsons!’
Singer Ciara has one-two stepped down the aisle with NFL player Russell Wilson. The couple both posted the same photo Wednesday on Twitter and Instagram showing Ciara in a wedding gown and the Richmond native in a tuxedo with the caption, “We are The Wilsons!”
C.A.V.E. to hold march, community day at Essex Village
After the shooting death of 12-year-old Amiyah Moses last year six days before Christmas, several Richmond area youth sports league coaches pledged to help curb violence in the city and surrounding areas by leading awareness marches.
Free oral history workshop at Black History Museum
Historian Lauranett L. Lee has devoted her life to uncovering the lost stories of African-American women and men to help spotlight their contributions both locally and nationally. Now Dr. Lee wants to inspire people to preserve their own family histories to expand appreciation and knowledge of where they come from.
Muralists coming to town for latest project
Richmond is about to get more murals. Beginning next week, at least 10 muralists from across the world will paint distinctive works on the exterior walls of now bare buildings — with the permission of the owners, of course. The artists are expected to start work Wednesday, July 13, and wrap up 11 days later, on Sunday, July 24, it has been announced.
History makers celebrate Fourth
Judge Damon J. Keith’s annual Independence Day picnic in Hanover County turned into a celebration of history Monday. The senior judge on the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals who lives in Detroit returns each year to his late wife’s family home in Virginia to celebrate his July 4 birthday.
By invitation only
New members to join Academy after 2nd all-white Oscars draws criticism
After suffering severe criticism for having a second straight year of all-white acting nominees for the Academy Awards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has invited 683 new members to join the organization. The academy says its invitees are 46 percent female, 41 percent minority and represent 59 countries.
Officials hope President Obama’s ‘My Brother’s Keeper’ program will remain under next administration
President Obama has seven months left in office. One of the leaders of one of his key initiatives is hard at work ensuring the president’s legacy will continue after he leaves the White House.
Richmonder Jackie Bradley selected to MLB All-Star team
Richmond native Jackie Bradley Jr. is officially a Major League Baseball All-Star. The 26-year-old outfielder for the Boston Red Sox will be an American League starter at the 87th annual MLB All-Star Game on July 12 at San Diego’s Petco Park.
VSU’s Pittman receives NCAA Degree Completion Award
Virginia State University scholar-athlete Wynterra Pittman has received the 2016 NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award.
Hanover standout Cayman Richardson to play ball at U.Va.
Cayman Richardson is going from one of the top high school baseball programs in Virginia to one of the top college programs in America.
Rev. Marshall H. Garrett, 73, Christian education minister at Moore Street Missionary Baptist Church
The Rev. Marshall Henderson Garrett, minister of Christian education at Moore Street Missionary Baptist Church, was widely known for his loving and caring spirit.
Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel, ‘conscience of the world,’ dies at 87
Elie Wiesel, the Holocaust survivor and Nobel Peace Prize winner whose memories of persecution and teachings on tolerance made him one of the world’s most revered moral voices, has died at 87. “My husband was a fighter,” Marion Wiesel said in a statement. “He fought for the memory of the 6 million Jews who perished in the Holocaust, and he fought for Israel. He waged countless battles for innocent victims regardless of ethnicity or creed.”
Youths learning to turn faith into action
Twenty kids marched around a multipurpose room at Duke Memorial United Methodist Church on a recent Thursday, following the path of a cardboard highway that a day earlier they discovered had divided the city’s neighborhoods and altered their vision for the community.
Personality: Jeree M. Thomas
Spotlight on inaugural winner of the youth justice Emerging Leader Award
Jeree Thomas believes in doing whatever she can to help her clients live more successful lives. The attorney with the JustChildren program of the Legal Aid Justice Center in Richmond provides counsel for children and represents them at special education and public benefits hearings.
Judge Roger Gregory makes history again
The son of humble tobacco factory workers is about to reach a new pinnacle in his legal career. On July 9, Judge Roger L. Gregory will become the chief judge of the powerful 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond.
Free Press wins national award
For the second consecutive year, the Richmond Free Press has been recognized with a national award for editorial writing. The Free Press received the Robert S. Abbott Best Editorial Award at the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s annual convention in Houston.
58: Number of candidates certified to run for mayor, City Council and School Board
Richmond voters will have plenty of choices for mayor, City Council and the School Board in the November election, when they also will be helping to elect a president, vice president and member of Congress. The three-member Richmond Electoral Board last week certified 58 candidates to run for city offices. The list would have been longer, but 15 potential candidates were disqualified for failure to meet filing requirements, the city Voter Registrar’s Office reported.
Slew of candidates translated into flood of work
The 73 candidates who filed to run for Richmond office submitted 1,835 pages of petitions with 25,060 signatures of purportedly registered voters, according to city Voter Registrar Kirk Showalter. Every one of the signatures had to be checked against the state database of registered voters to ensure they were valid, Ms. Showalter said.
Property values up in city
For the third year in a row, rising property values in Richmond will put Richmond City Council on the spot when it comes to collecting property taxes from owners of real estate.
Louisiana man killed by police
The U.S. Justice Department said on Wednesday it will investigate the killing of a black man pinned to the ground and shot in the chest by two white police of- ficers outside a convenience store in Baton Rouge, La. Captured on at least two videos, graphic images of the shooting of Alton Sterling, 37, early Tuesday stirred protests and so- cial media outcry over the latest case of alleged police brutality against an African- American in cities from Ferguson, Mo., to Baltimore and New York.
National commission to commemorate arrival of Africans in America approved by House
A federal commission to recognize the trials, tribulations and contributions of African-Americans since 1619 is one step closer to becoming a reality.
Whew!
FBI finds Hillary Clinton careless, but not criminal in use of private email server
The FBI recommended Tuesday that no criminal charges be filed over Hillary Clinton’s use of private email servers while she was secretary of state, but rebuked the Democratic U.S. presidential candidate for “extremely careless” handling of classified information.
City faces $1M bill from storm damage
Rosie Lee Woods, like dozens of city residents, has a reminder of the powerful storm that roared through the city June 16, knocking out power, felling trees and creating havoc. She can look out at the remains of the giant oak that stood in front of her North Side home, one of hundreds of city-owned trees toppled by the storm. Fortunately, her home didn’t suffer a scratch as the tree fell parallel to the street. After the storm, city workers came to the 3500 block of Hazelhurst Avenue and removed the massive branches that blocked the street, she said.
Highland Park dry cleaners to reopen under new ownership
Good news for Lonnie McLaurin and up to 30 other people. They will soon be able to get their clothes back from a closed dry cleaners in Highland Park. As the Free Press described in the June 9-11 edition, Mr. McLaurin has been trying to get his clothes since the business at 1311 E. Brookland Park Blvd. shut down in late April. He, like others, had been required to pay in advance for the dry cleaning service.
City moves to end regional jail arrangement
The City of Richmond wants to end its participation in a regional jail in Caroline County — a move that could save Richmond taxpayers at least $1.2 million a year.
Attorney general urges court to uphold mass restoration of felons’ voting rights
Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring is urging the Virginia Supreme Court to reject a Republican legal challenge to Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s use of executive power to restore voting and other political rights to more than 200,000 felons. This state’s highest court is to hear arguments on the issue July 19.
Saturday, July 2
Many people helped make change possible
As we honor, with a well-deserved commemorative marker, the brave Virginia Union University men and women students who broke down Virginia’s Jim Crow policy of segregated lunch counters, let’s not forget the courageous men and women who picketed with the NAACP on the sidewalks, as well as the Presbyterian theology students from Union Theological Seminary who also joined in the cause.
Equal pay a must
I love Virginia. And I love envisioning the New Virginia Economy that enables Virginians to have equitable opportunities for a quality education, quality health care, quality jobs and equal pay for equal work.
Dialogue, criticism must go both ways
Because I’m not a regular viewer of “Grey’s Anatomy,” I didn’t know who actor Jesse Williams was until his eloquent rants about the state of race in America popped up in viral internet videos.
Let freedom ring
As we slide toward the July 4th holiday on Monday, we will be bombarded this weekend with messages of patriotism. From the presidential candidates to mattress firms, many people will seek to wrap themselves in the flag as they offer pitches about liberty, freedom and the values espoused by the Founding Fathers.
‘Richmond 34’ student sit-in commemorated with state marker
Elizabeth Johnson Rice was among 34 Virginia Union University students who were arrested after they staged a sit-in at Thalhimers department store in 1960 for its refusal to serve African-Americans in its restaurants.
Petersburg’s Jesse Vaughan wins 28th Emmy Award
Jesse Vaughan, the award-winning television and film director and producer, has done it again — this time nabbing a regional Emmy Award for his look at food deserts.
BET Awards honors Prince, Muhammad Ali
The BET Awards delivered an exciting night of tributes for Prince and Muhammad Ali between calls for action over gun violence, civil rights and presidential politics. These are the top moments from Sunday’s awards show held at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.
First Lady promotes girls education in Africa
First Lady Michelle Obama visited a leadership camp for girls Monday in Liberia to launch her latest visit to Africa, urging the teens in one of the world’s poorest countries to keep fighting to stay in school.
Father, sons in MJBL headed to Inner City Classic
As the public information officer for the Richmond Department of Fire and Emergency Services, Lt. Christopher W. Armstrong reports information to the news media.
Britton Wilson shines on, off track
Britton Wilson draws applause in more ways than one. The 15-year-old sparkles with her fast feet on the running track and with her crystal clear singing voice on stage. As a freshman at Henrico County’s Mills Godwin High School, Wilson was an instant track and field sensation under Eagles sprint Coach Gene Scott.
JM’s Carter-Sheppard signs with East Carolina
Jeremy Carter-Sheppard of Richmond’s John Marshall High School is headed to East Carolina University to play basketball on scholarship for the Pirates of the American Athletic Conference.
Bucks draft 2 with Va. ties
The Milwaukee Bucks have a history of drafting players with Virginia ties, and the team has done it again. At last week’s NBA draft in Brooklyn, N.Y., the Bucks’ first-round pick, Thon Maker, and second-round selection, Malcolm Brogdon, both have state connections.
Friday, July 1
First African-American named head of largest Presbyterian denomination
PORTLAND, Ore. The largest Presbyterian denomination in the United States has elected its first African-American top executive. Dr. J. Herbert Nelson II won an overwhelming majority of votes last Friday during the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in Portland, Ore.
Presbyterians, Southern Baptists vote to end racism and racist symbols
Religion News Service The nation’s second largest Presbyterian denomination has passed legislation repenting for “past failures to love brothers and sisters from minority cultures” and committing its members to work toward racial reconciliation. The “overture,” or legislation, was approved overwhelmingly Thursday, June 23, at the national meeting of the Presbyterian Church in America. The issue had been deferred from the previous year’s meeting, where there was a lengthy debate on similar legislation.
Mother Emanuel’s pastor in Charleston reassigned
After an unusually short time on the job, church officials have reassigned the pastor of the Charleston, S.C., church where a gunman killed nine people during Bible study a year ago.
Personality: Virginia ‘Ginger’ Workman Stanley
Spotlight on Virginia Press Association’s retiring executive director
For 32 years, Ginger Stanley has been an advocate for Virginia’s newspapers, so much so that her name is practically synonymous with the Virginia Press Association. That’s the organization that promotes the common interests of its member newspapers.
Friends, family offer final goodbyes to Orlando Shooting Victim
Darryl “DJ” Roman Burt II may have had premonitions about his impending death as he drove to meet four friends at an Orlando, Fla., nightclub to celebrate the master’s degree and certificate in business administration he had received just hours earlier in Jacksonville from Keller Graduate School of Management.
Interim president named at VUU
A former senior vice president of Virginia Union University is returning to serve as interim president. The VUU Board of Trustees on Tuesday tapped Dr. Joseph F. Johnson, 69, to take over from President Claude G. Perkins, who will start a yearlong paid sabbatical Friday, July 1, before retiring.
Mayor proposes tax hikes to fund improvements
Richmond has monster needs. Most of its schools are decaying, its streets are falling apart, its parks and public buildings need renovation — but it has maxed out its credit card and can’t afford to borrow any more money.
Help in the wings for Evergreen, East End cemeteries
Two historic, but neglected cemeteries where renowned African-Americans such as Maggie L. Walker and John Mitchell Jr. are buried may get a huge boost from the state.
City’s 2015 audit may be completed this week
Richmond City Hall, though months late, soon could be finished with an audit of its books for the 2015 fiscal year that ended a year ago.
Meter fees go up July 5 Downtown
Motorists will pay an extra 50 cents an hour to park at a street meter in Downtown beginning Tuesday, July 5, it has been announced.
New Virginia laws begin July 1
A host of new laws will go into effect in Virginia on Friday, July 1, including laws regulating concealed weapons, fantasy gaming, new age minimums for marriage and smoking in cars. Here are some of them:
Gravely still in at state NAACP
Jack Gravely is still the interim executive director of the 16,000-member Virginia State Conference of the NAACP. “I am not planning to resign this week,” Mr. Gravely said Monday, denying a Free Press report published in the June 23-25 edition in which a source indicated Mr. Gravely was poised to depart.
Former congressional delegate Walter Fauntroy arrested
Civil rights leader and former congressional delegate Walter Fauntroy was released from a Virginia jail Tuesday following his arrest Monday at Dulles International Airport on a 5-year-old charge of writing a bad check in Maryland, authorities said. Mr. Fauntroy, 83, had been living abroad for the past four years, and relatives and friends had expressed concerns about his health. He told The Washington Post in a telephone interview last week that he was coming home and that he believed the bad check issue was resolved.
Decision removes guns from domestic abusers convicted of misdemeanors
The U.S. Supreme Court expanded protection for victims of domestic violence Monday by ruling that every misdemeanor conviction for domestic violence triggers the loss of gun ownership rights. The justices, in a 6-2 ruling issued amid fierce debate about reducing firearms violence in America, rejected arguments that a federal gun ownership prohibition should apply only to knowing or intentional conduct, but not to impulsive or reckless conduct.
Case closed on 1964 murder of 3 civil rights workers
JACKSON, MISS. One day short of the 52nd anniversary of the disappearance of three civil rights workers’ during Mississippi’s “Freedom Summer,” state and federal prosecutors said that the investigation into the slayings is over. The decision, announced June 20, “closes a chapter” in the state’s divisive civil rights history, Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood said.
No jail
U.S. Supreme Court overturns corruption convictions of former Gov. McDonnell
Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell insisted that he never sold his office in exchange for the $177,000 in loans and gifts that a businessman seeking to promote a dietary product showered on him and his family.
