Thursday, March 31
First family celebrates Easter at historic black church
President Obama and the first family attended Easter service at a historic African-American church that traces its origins to the presidency of Thomas Jefferson. The Rev. Howard-John Wesley, pastor at the 198-year-old Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria’s Old Town, welcomed back the Obamas, whom he described as “the gorgeous family.” The Obamas also visited the church last Easter.
60 years late
Richmond woman honored by college after being denied admission in 1956
As a young black girl in Stafford County, Va., in the 1950s, Gladys White Jordan saw up close how privilege was largely determined by skin color.
City changes
Richmond population grows; it’s no longer majority black
After growing up in Richmond, Patti B. Wright joined the wave of people leaving the city for the suburbs when her son, Joshua M. “Josh” Wright, was a toddler. But now that her son is grown, she felt “it no longer made sense to live out in the country at the end of a dirt road.”
Mayoral prospects getting in, out of election race
Richmond School Board Chairman Jeff Bourne this week dropped out of the race for mayor before the contest even began.
Richmonder earns aviator wings
Justin Roberts, a 2010 Richmond Community High School graduate, earned his aviator “Wings of Gold” after completing pilot training at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi in Texas.
City Council OKs new housing developments
Richmond City Council has given the green light to two new developments that will bring new housing to the Carver and Fulton areas.
Richmond writer chosen for top artist residency program
Longtime Richmond area writer Robin Farmer has been selected for the prestigious Djerassi Resident Artists Program in Woodside, Calif.
Religious community comes together to reflect on the Resurrection
Evangelist Michelle Turner of All Saints Episcopal Church in Henrico County held a wooden cross that she made as she walked with 50 others in the Stations of the Cross community walk Downtown to mark Good Friday. “It’s my way of giving back my love to the Lord,” Ms. Turner said.
Personality: Grindly Johnson
Spotlight on Women Who Move the Nation Award winner
Grindly Johnson is on a mission to increase business and job opportunities for women in the transportation industry. “Women need to be involved in transportation because we are talented and make exceptional leaders,” says Ms. Johnson, who is Virginia’s deputy secretary of transportation.
April 7 opener
Flying Squirrels bringing their AA game
As the Richmond Flying Squirrels leave spring training in Scottsdale, Ariz., later this week and fly to Richmond on Sunday to prepare for their new Eastern League baseball season, their roster will include two players who are former first round draft picks, a third flame-throwing closer who consistently throws 100 mph fastballs and a new manager who spent the past three seasons at the helm of the Diablos Rojos in the Mexican League, leading the team to the 2014 league championship.
Chesterfield player headed to Final Four with Syracuse
The Virginia teams in the NCAA basketball tournament are gone, but a Chesterfield County player remains in the competition. Talented Michael Gbinije is headed to the Final Four in Houston as Syracuse University’s 6-foot-7 graduate student point guard.
VUU’s ‘hitting machine’ is winding up for final season
Whether it’s a battle of the brains or a battle of brawn, Virginia Union University’s Taylor Hamilton is a home run hitter.
High jumper follows in dad’s footsteps, goes pro
High jumper Vashti Cunningham has inherited athletic talent from her father, former NFL quarterback Randall Cunningham.
Son of VUU legend finalist for Jerry West Award
A.J. English III, son of former Virginia Union University basketball great A.J. English Jr., is a finalist for the Jerry West Award honoring the top male shooting guard in NCAA Division I basketball.
Incentives extend Coach Wade’s contract to 2023-24 season
After one year on the job, Virginia Commonwealth University officials obviously liked what they saw in basketball Coach Will Wade.
Russell Wilson at Forum April 2
Seattle Seahawks star quarterback Russell Wilson, out of Collegiate School in Henrico County, is scheduled to team up with renowned Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. for an evening of discussion 8 p.m. Saturday, April 2, at the Richmond Forum at the Altria Theater.
Serena upset in fourth round of Miami Open
Serena Williams had been out of the tournament for less than 20 minutes when she climbed into her white Mini Cooper with the checkerboard top and pulled away from the players’ parking lot, fastening her seat belt as she drove.
Smithsonian’s new African-American museum focus of forum
Throngs of visitors are expected to view exhibits chronicling the enslavement and emancipation of hundreds of thousands of Africans and African-Americans in the United States when the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture opens this fall on the National Mall in Washington. And they will see displays about President Obama’s historic election and leadership as the nation’s first African-American president.
Croaker’s adds a new spot — Sugar’s Crab Shack
The popular Richmond-based Croaker’s Spot restaurant chain has a new addition — Sugar’s Crab Shack. The drive-in, walk-up eatery quietly opened two weeks ago in the 2200 block of Chamberlayne Avenue and features lake trout, catfish and shrimp, as well as snow crab legs.
Celebration for Spelman alumnae, friends April 10
Spelman College alumnae and friends of the Atlanta school are invited to celebrate the 135th Founders Day and the investiture of its 10th president, Mary Schmidt Campbell, by worshipping 11 a.m. Sunday, April 10, at Fifth Baptist Church, 1415 W. Cary St.
Environmental rally set for Saturday
Several environmental groups are organizing “RVA Day of Climate Action,” a day of rallies and action on environmental issues, on Saturday, April 2.
Rep. Scott announces annual high school art competition
Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott has announced the annual art competition for students in grades 9 through 12 who live in his 3rd Congressional District.
Va. War Memorial 5K slated for April 23
The 5th Annual Virginia War Memorial/Priority 5K Run-Walk to Remember will take place 8 a.m. Saturday, April 23, at the memorial, 621 S. Belvidere St.
U.S. Senate elections should be the focus
Most people are focused on the presidential hopefuls and the upcoming election that will decide who will succeed President Obama.
Students must focus on changing job market, world
The first African-American president of the University of Richmond delivered a powerful message at Chester’s Second Baptist Church Men’s Fellowship, emphasizing the importance of mentoring and providing an education that allows all students to thrive.
A piece of Cuba
I remember a line from Gil Scott-Heron in “The Bicentennial Blues,” where he was discussing the Nixon administration and this nation’s penchant for getting in on the economic action of other nations. He called Henry Kissinger the “International Godfather of Peace, a ‘piece’ of Viet Nam, a ‘piece’ of Laos, a ‘piece’ of Angola, a ‘piece’ of Cuba.” That line is fitting 40 years later as President Obama returns from Cuba accompanied by a dozen business executives.
Obamacare: Six years later
Today, after almost a century of trying; today, after over a year of debate; today, after all the votes have been tallied, health insurance reform becomes law in the United States of America. Today. It is fitting that Congress passed this historic legislation this week. For as we mark the turning of spring, we also mark a new season in America. In a few moments, when I sign this bill, all of the overheated rhetoric over reform will finally confront the reality of reform.” — President Obama at signing of Health Insurance Reform Bill, March 2010
Voting rights
When voters across the nation head to the polls in November to cast ballots, it will be the first presidential election in 50 years without the full protection of the federal Voting Rights Act. In 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court voted 5-4 to strike down critical provisions of the 1965 Voting Rights Act that required 16 mostly Southern states — including Virginia — to get pre-clearance from the U.S. Justice Department before making any changes affecting voting because of their history of discrimination against African-Americans and other minorities.
Wednesday, March 30
Name suggestions pouring in for former Byrd Middle School
As Henrico schools officials launch the process to rename the former Harry F. Byrd Sr. Middle School, the names of several African-Americans who have notably served the community have emerged as possibilities. Among them:
Wilder to host mayoral candidate forum April 6 at VUU
L. Douglas Wilder, the former governor of Virginia and a former Richmond mayor, is hosting a forum for candidates seeking election as Richmond’s mayor.
Suit settled by reggae singer struck by bottle
Grammy Award-winning Jamaican reggae singer Frederick “Toots” Hibbert suffered head pains and memory loss and was diagnosed with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder after a drunk spectator threw a liquor bottle that hit him in the head while he was performing with his band Toots and the Maytals at the 2013 Dominion Riverrock Festival in Downtown.
Lane named superintendent in Chesterfield
Dr. James F. Lane, head of Goochland County Public Schools, will be the next superintendent of the larger Chesterfield County school system.
Friday, March 25
Twins lend voices, expertise to healthy heart education
Fraternal twins Kimberly Ketter and Shaun Rivers share a deep faith and a desire to help others. And they aspire to live life to its fullest.
Judge Jenkins brings message of redemption to Garland Ave. Baptist Men’s Day
Richmond Circuit Court Chief Judge Clarence N. Jenkins Jr. encouraged his fellow congregation members to get “a spiritual tuneup” during a Men’s Day address Sunday at Garland Avenue Baptist Church on North Side. His remarks were delivered on Palm Sunday, which Christians annually celebrate in marking Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem shortly before his crucifixion at Calvary.
GOP: ‘Modern-day plantation owners’
The modern-day Republican Party is a very destructive force. They want to destroy Hillary Clinton’s chances for becoming president so that they can rule over this country Jim Crow-style.
‘Highland Park continues to blossom’
Highland Park, once a place of decay, continues to blossom. Residents, civic groups, police, schools churches, nonprofit organizations and area businesses are helping to make this community a great place to live, work and play. Here are some of the positive things that are complementing the work that has already been done: • 77 new senior apartments are being developed at Six Points, the crossroads where Brookland Park Boulevard, Meadowbridge Road, Dill Avenue and 2nd Avenue meet.
Women peace activists
Some words seem rarely mentioned in this highly toxic political season. We’ve heard about bombs and walls, but very little about peace. One is almost tempted, when some of the candidates are speaking, to burst into “Give peace a chance.” In this Women’s History Month, it makes sense to reflect on women and the peace movement and especially on the African-American women who have played a significant role in this movement.
Moving toward reason
As President Obama counts down his last month in office amid the raucous babble of the Republican presidential debate, people are beginning to realize how much we will miss his leadership. He has served with dignity and grace, increasingly rare attributes in American politics. His family has exhibited the values that Americans embrace. He has brought the economy back from the freefall he inherited.
Sharing the blessing
We commend Starbucks, the high-priced, addictive java joint, for listening to the suggestions of its employees and customers and coming up with a way to help the hungry while reducing food waste.
Remove the log
We followed with great interest President Obama’s trip this week to Cuba, scrutinizing closely his reception not only by the Cuban people, but by that nation’s leaders.
Family events to highlight Easter weekend
Two family-style festivals return this week- end to highlight the holiday season. Maymont once again will host Dominion Family Easter from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 26, at the park off Hampton Street in the West End.
Entrepreneurs to pitch ideas at Aging 2.0 event
The Richmond chapter of Aging 2.0 is inviting entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas for start-up companies focused on improv- ing the lives of older adults at their Global Startup Search competition.
Southern Women’s Show celebrates 25 years in RVA April 15-17
Henrico County native and American Idol finalist Rayvon Owen is to perform at the 25th Annual Southern Women’s Show, which will be held Friday, April 15 through Sunday, April 17, at the Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Ave., in Henrico County.
Stations of the Cross community walk on Good Friday Downtown
Several Richmond area churches are partnering in a Stations of the Cross community walk on Good Friday, March 25. At nine different stations throughout Downtown, participants will hear a retelling of a series of events at the end of Jesus’ life, according to a release.
Rev. Gilliam to be installed as Mount Oni’s eighth pastor
Chesterfield County native Marvin L. Gilliam Jr. will be installed as the new pastor at Mount Oni Baptist Church in Ruther Glen Sunday, April 10.
Rev. Jeremiah Wright to speak March 31 at East End church
The Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright is scheduled to speak at Faith Community Baptist Church in the East End at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 31.
Lady Panthers’ heartbreaker
In her only basketball season for Virginia Union University, Kiana Johnson scored a jaw-dropping 905 points. If she somehow could have added points 906 or perhaps 907, the Panthers might still be playing.
Rams knocked out in round 2; next test in Battle4Atlantis
University of Oklahoma’s Buddy Hield is arguably the best college basketball player in America. If he were anything less, Virginia Commonwealth University likely would be headed to the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16 this weekend instead of packing for the offseason.
Pirates routed by U.Va. in first round
This wasn’t a banner year for NCAA Division I basketball champions from historically black colleges and universities. MEAC Tournament champion Hampton University was trounced 81-45 by the University of Virginia in a first-round NCAA game last Thursday in Raleigh, N.C.
Cuba played role in Dodgers’ history
Cuba made headlines this week with President Obama’s historic trip to the largest Caribbean nation located just 90 miles south of Florida.
Rapper Phife Dawg of A Tribe Called Quest dies at 45
Phife Dawg, a masterful lyricist whose witty wordplay was a linchpin of the groundbreaking hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest, died Tuesday from complications resulting from diabetes, his family said in a statement on Wednesday. He was 45. Born Malik Isaac Taylor, he was known as the “Five Foot Assassin” because he was 5 feet 3 inches tall.
Personality: Dr. Leonard L. Edloe
Spotlight on American Pharmacists Association Foundation president
Dr. Leonard L. Edloe provided a vital service to residents of Richmond’s East End, South Side and Downtown communities as a pharmacist before closing his businesses, Edloe’s Professional Pharmacies, in 2012 after more than four decades. He also ministers to others as senior pastor at New Hope Fellowship in Middlesex County and hosts a weekly radio talk show on WCLM 1450 in Richmond. He also is an adjunct professor of Christian ethics at the John B. Leland Theological Center’s School of Ministry.
Thursday, March 24
National ‘Player of the Year’
Kiana Johnson and “Player of the Year” are now officially synonymous. The Virginia Union University senior guard was named NCAA Division II National Player of the Year Monday by the Women’s Association of Basketball Coaches (WABC).
Richmond Christian Center to search for new pastor
The Richmond Christian Center is moving to replace its founding pastor, Steve Parson. Two months after emerging from bankruptcy, the fundamentalist South Side church announced Tuesday that it has begun a search for a new full-time pastor to be in place by July.
Movement afoot to remove Lee statue in Charlottesville
Charlottesville residents who are uncomfortable with a local park could affect a monumental change if renewed protest over a nearly 100-year-old statue gains enough support. On Tuesday, local community leaders called on the city’s elected officials to rename Lee Park and remove the statue of the park’s namesake, Gen. Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia.
Computer science to be added to Va. education requirements
The three Rs of education are getting a new addition in Virginia — computer science. As part of education reforms approved in the recent session, the General Assembly unanimously passed legislation making the theory and practice of computer operations and the ability to write software code part of a well-rounded education on par with the traditional subjects of reading, writing and arithmetic.
Holiday schedule
City of Richmond government operations will be closed on Good Friday, March 25, it has been announced. The city, with a Baptist pastor as mayor, is one of the few area government operations to take an Easter break. The shutdown will affect City Hall and other city operations, including recreation centers and libraries. However, Richmond’s public schools will be open Friday, the last day before city schoolchildren begin a weeklong spring break beginning Monday, March 28.
Obama promotes democracy during historic visit to Cuba
Capping his remarkable visit to Cuba, President Obama on Tuesday declared an end to the “last remnant of the Cold War in the Americas” and openly urged the Cuban people to pursue a more democratic future for this communist nation 90 miles from the Florida coast.
‘Virtual school’ in Va.?
Advocates say it would boost educational choices; critics say it would strip students and money from public schools
Thousands of public school students in Virginia could have the option of taking all of their classes on a home computer in what is known as a “virtual school” — instead of making the daily trek to a building with bells and defined class times. Gov. Terry McAuliffe is mulling whether to sign House Bill 8, a largely Republican-backed piece of legislation that would allow Virginia to join Florida, Ohio and 28 other states in providing 12 years of public education in what enthusiasts describe as a “classroom without walls.”
Tuesday, March 22
Walker statue to be shorter than initial plan
Maggie Walker’s statue in Downtown could wind up at least 6 feet shorter than sculptor Antonio “Toby” Mendez first envisioned. Instead of a 14-foot tall statue standing on a 5-foot pedestal as the sculptor proposed, the bronze figure of the much-admired Richmond businesswoman and civil rights leader would be no more than 10 feet tall and stand on 3-foot,4-inch pedestal in the proposed plaza at Adams and Broad streets.
Rankine named new dean at UR
The University of Richmond School of Arts and Sciences will have a new dean June 1. He is Dr. Patrice Rankine, currently dean for Arts and Humanities at Hope College in Holland, Mich. “Dr. Rankine is an experienced and accomplished scholar and administrator who deeply appreciates the importance we, at Richmond, attach to our deans being student-focused and committed to faculty development,” University of Richmond Provost Jacquelyn S. Fetrow stated Tuesday in announcing the appointment.
Tentative design, sculptor chosen for Emancipation Monument
Plans for a Richmond monument that pays tribute to the Emancipation Proclamation and enslaved Africans are moving forward three years after it was first proposed, according to a state commission that is spearheading the effort. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Commission has tentatively selected the sculptor and a potential design for the Emancipation Proclamation and Freedom Monument.
State senator launches bid for Congress
State Sen. A. Donald McEachin formally announced his candidacy for the open seat in the 4th Congressional District. Richmond and Eastern Henrico are now part of the 4th District, which has been represented by Republican Congressman J. Randy Forbes. However, Rep. Forbes announced he will give up the seat and run in the 2nd Congressional District. Sen. McEachin, a 54-year-old Democrat and personal injury attorney, was re-elected last year to a third term in the state Senate. He will not have to give up his General Assembly seat to run for Congress.
City juvenile detention center re-certified
The Richmond Juvenile Detention Center has passed its latest state review with flying colors. Richmond officials said the center was notified last month that it had been recertified to operate for another three years after receiving 100 percent passing grades on all elements of the audit.
Student advocate wins case in Chesterfield
Kandise Lucas, an advocate for disabled students and their parents, did not trespass at a Chesterfield County high school last year despite being banned from the property, a Chesterfield Circuit Court judge ruled Wednesday. Judge Timothy J. Hauler threw out the misdemeanor trespass charge the school system had brought after finding Ms. Lucas did not have the requisite intent.
Friday, March 18
GRTC driver raises safety concerns after stabbing
GRTC bus drivers have been assaulted by angry and upset passengers at least 16 times during the past five years. They have reported being spit on, punched and hit with water bottles and book bags, according to GRTC records. One driver last year even had a knife briefly held to his throat.
Thursday, March 17
Black Lives – and Beyoncé – Matter
I would like to commend the beautiful, courageous, intelligent and truly creative Beyoncé for her uplifting performance at the Super Bowl.
Road to heaven
I believe we do not have to be able to read a book to go to heaven.
‘City is having an uplift, but not the people’
I have lived in Richmond for a number of years and it’s funny how some things remain the same and others are done with a different twist, but the results are identical.
‘Our kids deserve the best’
Re “Planned school cuts causing pain,” March 10-12 edition: Children are our future and need to be treated like that. But because the schools will not receive the amount of money that is needed, cuts will be taking place. Our students need money in the budget so that they can learn and raise their learning curve.
Incarceration addiction aids jailers only
“Jails and prisons are the complement of schools; so many less as you have of the latter, so many more must you have of the former.” — Horace Mann, “Report of the Superintendent of Public Instruction of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” 1881
Trump: The GOP’s Frankenstein
President Obama has seen this horror movie before. His political opponents not only distorted his positions when he first ran for president, but deliberately lied about his place of birth, asserting that because he — according to their fiction — was not a U.S. citizen, he was not qualified to be president.
Just say no to Trump
After Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump each racked up numerous victories in key primary contests Tuesday in their quests for the presidential nomination of their respective political party, Mrs. Clinton, a Democrat, took a major jab at the billionaire Republican businessman.
Malia, Sasha turn heads at first state dinner
Sasha and Malia Obama, the teenage daughters of President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, were nothing less than stunning for their first state dinner, where they were first clad in designer fabrics and later in controversy. During the official White House event last Thursday night welcoming Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, both Sasha and Malia ruled the red carpet, rubbed elbows with dignitaries and enjoyed a rare star-struck moment with “Deadpool” star Ryan Reynolds.
Author, journalist Barbara Ehrenreich to speak at housing coalition event
The Richmond-based Better Housing Coalition is hosting an event 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 24, at the University of Richmond’s Jepson Alumni Center to explore “the real-world challenges lower-income families face every day in finding decent housing, good jobs, healthy foods and effective transportation.”
‘Sights and Sounds of VUU’ event March 31
Virginia Union University is hosting a night of visual and performing art Thursday, March 31, with the theme “A Journey Through the Sights and Sounds of Virginia Union University.”
Local NAACP to host education forum, anniversary luncheon
The Richmond Branch NAACP is holding a community discussion about educational issues at its next meeting 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at Club 533, 700 N. 3rd St., in Downtown.
VUU’s ‘Windy City Wonder’ breaks records, dazzles fans at regional finale
Kiana Johnson is so fast, so agile, so dynamic. She navigates a basketball floor like a sleek sports car, reducing foes to clunker status.
VCU heads to Oklahoma City for NCAA despite A-10 loss
If you’re among the thousands of passionate Virginia Commonwealth University basketball fans, you’ve become accustomed to this time of year scrambling for last minute flight reservations. For the third straight year, the Rams are headed to the NCAA. So Rams fans who want to cheer on the team in person will be putting up considerable time, effort and expense. After losing to St. Joseph’s University 87-74 in the Atlantic 10 Tournament finale last Sunday in Brooklyn, N.Y., the Rams are headed to Oklahoma City, 1,293 miles from Richmond. Coach Will Wade’s 24-10 Rams are seeded No. 10 in the NCAA’s West Region and will face No. 7 Oregon State University, featuring Gary Payton II, on Friday, March 18. Tipoff is scheduled for 1:30 p.m., with the game slated to be televised on TNT.
Hampton Pirates win MEAC; now face U.Va. in NCAA
Of 68 teams chosen for the NCAA, Division I, basketball tournament, Hampton University has drawn one of the most challenging first round games.
VSU Trojans end season with second round NCAA loss
You can make a strong case for this being Virginia State University’s best basketball season in program history. Better yet, you can make a convincing argument next season will be even better.
John Marshall bows to I.C. Norcom in state semifinal
Some people worried that when all-time scorer Travis McKie left Richmond’s John Marshall High School, the Justices’ basketball fortunes might dip. It didn’t happen.
Norcom’s legend lives on
Great feats by I.C. Norcom High School basketball players have come to be expected. If it’s not too late, former Greyhound Johnny Morris, who still lives in Portsmouth, may even deserve a page in “Ripley’s Believe It or Not.”
‘Let Freedom Ring’ initiative extended at historic Williamsburg church
The First Baptist Church of Williamsburg will continue letting freedom ring through the month of May. In February, the historic church started by enslaved and free African-Americans commemorated its 240th anniversary with the kick off of the initiative “Let Freedom Ring: A Call to Healing a Nation.” People were invited to come to the church at 727 Scotland St., or go via social media, to ring the newly restored church bell as a symbolic call for racial healing, peace and justice nationwide.
Dr. Bedden to speak March 26 at church forum
Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Dana T. Bedden is to head a panel discussing the challenges, progress and future of public schools in the city.
National clergy group outraged over attempts to block court appointment
Black clergy from across the country are expressing outrage about the Republican-led U.S. Senate’s vow to block any nominee President Obama picks to fill a vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court, saying it reflects racism and disrespect.
Priest attacked over aid to refugees
Two members of the conservative Christian Democratic Union political party of German Chancellor Angela Merkel were linked to a spate of verbal racist attacks against an African priest who ministered to refugees fleeing oppressive African regimes.
Personality: Dan Fellows
Spotlight on Richmond Ambulance Authority innovator and award winner
Dan Fellows, fleet manager for the Richmond Ambulance Authority will go as far as the sun to ensure the highest quality of service for the residents of Richmond.
Malveaux moves to Va. Court of Appeals
Henrico County Judge Mary Bennett Malveaux is a beneficiary of the judgeship fight between the governor and the Republican-dominated General Assembly. She is headed to the state’s 11-member Court of Appeals where she will make history as the court’s first African-American female member. She is officially to begin on April 16.
Sweeping changes to impact high school learning, training
High school is headed for an overhaul in Virginia. Under reforms approved by the General Assembly, students who take courses to become computer technicians, mechanics, nurses and plumbers or enter other career and technical fields are to be placed on an equal footing with students seeking to go to college.
Byrd Middle School to get name change
Jordan Chapman wore a broad smile. Her mother, Amy, wiped away tears of joy. And the people around them applauded. Their happy reaction came after the Henrico School Board voted 5-0 to change the name of Harry F. Byrd Sr. Middle School at its March 10 work session at the New Bridge Learning Center.
School officials make push for more money
Audience members applauded repeatedly as students from Richmond Public Schools delivered stirring remarks, creative musical performances, inspiring spoken word renditions and precision marching exercises at the 2016 State of the Schools Address.
2016 General Assembly ends with bipartisan consensus on budget, other measures
The 2016 General Assembly session is over — ending last Friday, a day early, on a high note of accomplishment. The hectic 59 days produced a landmark compromise on gun laws and a new state budget providing a dramatic boost in spending on public education and offering pay hikes for state workers and lawmakers.
Obama picks D.C. jurist
President nominates Judge Merrick Garland for U.S. Supreme Court amid GOP pushback
President Obama nominated veteran appellate court Judge Merrick Garland to the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, setting up a potentially ferocious political showdown with Senate Republicans who have vowed to block any Obama nominee.
Grand jury OKs probe of city connection to mayor’s church
A grand jury Wednesday granted the Virginia State Police permission to investigate whether Mayor Dwight C. Jones blurred his roles as the city’s chief executive and senior pastor of First Baptist Church of South Richmond. Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael N. Herring called it a “procedural step” that allows the State Police to probe whether the mayor improperly used his city position to benefit the church or any of its members.
Tuesday, March 15
Sheriff Woody answers federal ADA lawsuit
Richmond Sheriff C.T. Woody Jr. plans to vigorously defend his office against a federal lawsuit accusing him of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to find a civilian position for a deputy suffering from a disabling heart condition. Tony Pham, the in-house lawyer for the Sheriff’s Office, stated that the sheriff followed the law and “vehemently denies that the former employee was discriminated against under the ADA” as the U.S. Justice Department alleged in its suit filed March 3 in federal district court in Richmond.
Congressional races shaping up
Largely overshadowed by presidential politics, the races for Virginia’s 11 congressional seats are beginning to take shape. In the 4th Congressional District that now includes Richmond, candidates are starting to make plans to run in the June 14 primary contests that have been called by the district’s Democratic and Republican committees.
VSU working on improvements after state auditor’s findings
That’s the verdict of the state auditor of public accounts after completing Virginia State University’s financial audit for fiscal year 2015 that ended June 30.
Friday, March 11
The U.S. Supreme Court and the elephant in the room
Race remains the unspoken elephant in the room amid the growing controversy over who should replace Justice Antonin Scalia on the U.S. Supreme Court.
Mexico neighbor not enemy
Presidential campaigns often turn raw. Politicians reach for sound bites that bite. Often they gain by playing on fears, winning by division, not by addition. In 2016, insult has become the coin of the campaign, particularly in the Republican primaries. And too often the enemy singled out has been Mexico and Mexicans.
The wall
For those who are watching the presidential nominating contest like a horse race, here are the latest results since Super Tuesday and Virginia’s participation:
Creativity runs in the family
Father-son artists share gifts with the community
Jerome W. Jones Jr. and his son, Jeromyah, share a deep passion for painting. Their works, many featuring portraits of noted people, provides uplift, education and motivation to untold thousands who have viewed them at exhibits and online.
Virginia Supreme Court drama
The partisan turmoil that has paralyzed Washington for the last few years apparently is contagious. And like a plague, it spread to Virginia, where the General Assembly was stricken with an illness threatening the progress of the Commonwealth.
Trojans play first game Saturday
Famed UCLA basketball Coach John Wooden traveled cross country long ago to tiny Franklinton, N.C., population 2,023, to sign Henry Bibby.
Lady Panthers play at Barco-Stevens Frida
You can make a powerful case for Virginia Union University’s Kiana Johnson being the best basketball player in the NCAA Division II.
Justices take on I.C. Norcom Friday in state tournament
John Marshall High School is among the smallest schools in the Virginia High School League’s 3A classification. It also ranks with the state’s 3A elite, at least basketball-wise. Relying on multitasking athletes such as Xavier Trent and Isaiah Anderson, Coach Ty White’s Justices are hopeful of a second state basketball title in three years.
A look back
Spirit of Maggie Walker’s 1967-68 Green Dragons lives on
One state with two state champions. That’s the way it was in Virginia.
VCU Rams looking for A-10 tourney win
Virginia Commonwealth University is trekking to Brooklyn, N.Y., this weekend with mostly fond memories of the sprawling New York City borough. The vast Barclays Center, site of the Atlantic 10 Conference basketball tournament, has been like Siegel Center North for the Rams and their fanatical fans.
Hampton U. Pirates favored to win MEAC Tournament
Hampton University has the MEAC’s best basketball record, and arguably the conference’s two best players. Its archrival, Norfolk State University, however, has the last regular season laugh, as well as hometown advantage, heading into this week’s MEAC Tournament at the Norfolk Scope.
Hanover golfer making big mark at 14
Christian Dyer would rather follow a golf ball, and the exciting places it might lead him, than follow the crowd. At 6-feet, 210 pounds, the young athlete would seem well suited for basketball or football. Instead the 14-year-old has been all-in for golf since receiving a set of clubs from his grandparents for Christmas when he was 3.
SisterFund giving circle seeks community change
Twenty philanthropically minded women have come together to have a greater impact on giving in the Richmond community.
VCU Children’s Pavilion opens
It’s being described as the biggest development in child health care in Central Virginia. After more than five years of planning and construction, the new $200 million Children’s Pavilion outpatient treatment center was celebrated with fanfare Wednesday, just days before its planned opening to patients and families on Monday, March 21.
Co-founders of Black Lives Matter movement to speak in Richmond
Two founders of the Black Lives Matter movement, Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi, will be speaking in Richmond this month. Ms. Garza is to deliver a lecture 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at the University of Richmond’s Tyler Haynes Commons. Ms. Tometi is scheduled to speak 7 p.m. Thursday, March 31, at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Siegel Center, 1200 W. Broad St., on the topic “#BlackLivesMatter: Hashtag in Action.” Both events are open to the public without charge.
Miss Thompson marries Dr. Haskell
As the featured “Personality” in the Free Press edition published July 18-20, 2013, Dr. Marlon A. Haskell, pastor of Chicago Avenue Baptist Church, said his next goal was “to marry again, and fulfill God’s assignment for our lives.” Well …
Pine Camp hosts performance art exhibit March 18
The Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities will host a performance art exhibit in honor of Women’s History Month featuring area artists at the Pine Camp Cultural Arts and Community Center, 4901 Old Brook Road.
Water collection for Flint residents
Chesterfield County-based Brothers’ Keeper Inc. is pitching in to provide bottled water to the people of Flint, Mich.
MLW Class of 1967 reunion meeting
Members of the Maggie L. Walker High School Class of 1967 will hold a planning meeting for next year’s 50th Anniversary Reunion at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 19, at Fifth Baptist Church, 1415 W. Cary St.
Bobbi Kristina’s autopsy shows mixture of drugs, alcohol
Bobbi Kristina Brown’s autopsy report contained evidence of recent cocaine use by the daughter of Bobby Brown and the late Whitney Houston before she was found unresponsive in a bathtub in her home last year. But a medical examiner’s office said last Friday it could not establish whether her death after months in a coma was accidental or intentional. Ms. Brown suffered brain damage and died of pneumonia resulting from drug intoxication and her face being immersed in water, the Fulton County Medical Examiner said.
A song and a prayer
Musician starts campaign linking prayer and healing
One year after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, James Johnson Jr., the minister of music at Cedar Street Baptist Church of God in the East End, is releasing a song and initiating a national prayer campaign. Both are called “Agree.”
Former First Lady Nancy Reagan dies
Nancy Reagan, the former actress who was fiercely protective of her husband, President Ronald Reagan, through a Hollywood career, eight years in the White House, an assassination attempt and his Alzheimer’s disease, died Sunday, March 6, 2016, at her Los Angeles home.
Personality: Lee Brazzell
Spotlight on local president of the National Association of Women Business Owners
Lee Brazzell is on the front lines promoting the interests of women business owners as president of the Richmond/Southeast Virginia Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). She was elected to the post in 2015 and is committed to serving two more years.
Petersburg shake-up nets new chief operating officer
Amid crumbling finances, the City of Petersburg has shaken up its government leadership. After firing City Manager William E. Johnson III last week, the seven-member Petersburg City Council handed executive authority to three of its members, including Mayor W. Howard Myers, Ward 5, the city’s titular leader. The shuffle is the City Council’s latest effort to deal with millions of dollars in unpaid bills, a multimillion-dollar revenue shortfall and a malfunctioning water billing system.
City facing grim budget choices
Parking at a Downtown meter could soon be more expensive. So could the annual city fee to register a vehicle and the cost of trash collection. Those are some of the fee increases Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones is proposing in the $709 million spending plan for fiscal year 2017 that begins July 1. He presented the plan last Friday to Richmond City Council. It would be up to the council to approve the fee increases as part of its work on the budget.
Planned school cuts causing pain
North Side resident Sherri Davis said she is concerned about planned budget cuts that may close schools, crowd classrooms and have parents scrambling to arrange transportation for their children. “It becomes a safety issue when you propose to put more kids in classes,” the mother of two Richmond Public Schools students told the Free Press on Wednesday. “It’s already hard enough for teachers to teach the large numbers of students they have in their classrooms.”
Rudd’s Trailer Park sold; new owner takes over in April
Ronnie Soffee exchanged hugs and accepted well wishes from residents at Rudd’s Trailer Park early Saturday afternoon. He even shed a few tears as several people stopped by the office of the mobile home park at 2911 Jefferson Davis Highway.
GOP surprise
Cuccinelli then McCullough poised for Va. high court
Ending a long-running dispute with the governor, the Republican majority in the General Assembly will cap the legislative session by filling a vacant state Supreme Court seat with their own choice. However, as has been traditional, the choice will be a seasoned jurist — Stephen R. McCullough of the Virginia Court of Appeals, GOP leaders in the House and Senate announced Wednesday.
Tuesday, March 8
Lighted VUU tower enhances city skyline
Virginia Union University now has a brighter profile on the city’s skyline. The landmark Vann Memorial Tower at the Belgian Friendship Building on campus is lighted at night and visible across the city and to motorists on Interstate 95.
Richmond sheriff sued for disability violation
Richmond Sheriff C.T. Woody Jr. has been hit with a federal lawsuit for firing a deputy who became disabled by a heart condition.
Richmond Police plans to curb domestic violence
The Richmond Police Department is stepping up efforts to stem domestic violence in partnership with the YWCA of Richmond and the Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
Preliminary figures show $4.7M surplus for city in FY2015
City Hall could fill a big chunk of a projected $9.6 million deficit for the current fiscal year once outside auditors sign off on the city’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for fiscal year 2015 that ended June 30. Based on preliminary figures, the city finished fiscal year 2015 with a $4.7 million surplus.
Weldon Hill moves from VSU provost to professor
New Virginia State University President Makola M. Abdullah will soon be putting his stamp on the university’s administration.
Friday, March 4
What would Maggie Walker want?
The people have spoken. The city Public Art Commission has spoken. The city has decreed that the live oak tree at Broad and Adams streets cannot co-exist with the Maggie Walker statue. But one voice has been surprisingly absent from the discussion: Maggie Walker’s.
Déjá vu
Now that the political pundits of the major media outlets have gulped down the teas that were the South Carolina Democratic primary and Super Tuesday, they are busy trying to read the leaves left in their respective cups. One of the questions they are trying to fathom is: “Why are black voters splitting between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders?”
True winners
Before the thrill of the annual CIAA Tournament wears off, we offer our hearty congratulations to the Lady Panthers of Virginia Union University and the Virginia State University Trojans men’s basketball team for such exciting CIAA championship wins last Saturday in Charlotte, N.C.
Super Tuesday: Just how super?
Super Tuesday is over. And for fans of Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Donald Trump, it was a great night, with multistate victories for both candidates ranging from Massachusetts to Georgia to Arkansas.
Plunky and Oneness wins 2 IMA awards
Plunky and Oneness, a Richmond-based jazz-funk fusion group, is among the winners in the 2016 Independent Music Awards.
Host Chris Rock rocks the Oscars
Comedian Chris Rock launched his return stint as Oscar host Sunday by immediately and unabashedly confronting the racially charged elephant in the room — the furor over the all-white field of performers nominated for Hollywood’s highest honor.
Richmond Symphony to host ‘Celebrate Jackson Ward’ in May
The Richmond Symphony plans to host a spring festival in Jackson Ward to coincide with the grand opening of the new home of the Black History Museum, it has been announced.
CIAA champs head to NCAA
VSU Trojans win crown for first time since 1988; Williams named MVP
There is a saying that the best form of revenge is success. That being the case, color Virginia State University’s Kevin Williams revengeful, successful and, best of all, Most Valuable Player of the CIAA Tournament.
CIAA champs head to NCAA (Pt 2)
Lady Panthers celebrating title; Johnson clinches MVP
Kiana Johnson and Lady Walker may be the best celebration combination since ice cream and cake. They’re the life of a Virginia Union University basketball party that’s just spreading it wings under first-year Coach AnnMarie Gilbert.
VUU enjoying turnaround
Long story short — Coach Jay Butler has turned things around at Virginia Union University. In recent times, VUU’s men’s basketball team would return from the CIAA Tournament in Charlotte, N.C., with no victories and little cause for optimism. The image brightened last week as VUU won its first tournament game since 2009 (over Shaw University), nearly tacked on a second win against two-time defending champ Livingstone College, and did so with a roster oozing with skilled underclassmen.
Jesse Owens had backup
17 other black athletes competed on 1936 U.S. Olympic team
Adolf Hitler’s bigoted theory on “Aryan supremacy” took a terrible beating at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, Germany. A talented band of African-American athletes led by Jesse Owens blew up Hitler’s hateful propaganda and kicked the rubble in his face.
Scout leaders step down after more than 50 years
Gladys Lewis and Anna Washington have faithfully led the Girl Scouts troop at their church, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church on North Side, for more than 50 years. Through their selfless service, the Richmond residents have helped hundreds of young girls fulfill their scouting dreams. They will officially step down as troop leaders Sunday, March 13, the day they are to be honored in a 10:30 a.m. ceremony at the church at 2900 Hanes Ave.
Retired airman recounts saga to remove racist flag from Virginia Air National Guard
Leon Brooks, a retired sergeant with the Virginia Air National Guard, was honored Sunday “as a real living hero” in an emotional tribute at Greater Brook Road Baptist Church on South Side during the church’s Heritage Celebration. “I’m really honored,” Mr. Brooks humbly told the small congregation at the church led by the Rev. Grace E. Tolliver. “This is the first time anyone has asked me to speak about this publicly.”
Former boxer, ‘Rocky’ actor Tony Burton dies at 78
Tony Burton, a former boxer who portrayed Apollo Creed’s trainer in six of the “Rocky” movies, has died at age 78 after a long illness.
Personality: Coach Maurice Tyler
Spotlight on founding director of Coaches Against Violence Everywhere
Maurice Tyler says he was driven to establish Coaches Against Violence Everywhere after 12-year-old Amiyah Moses was killed Dec. 19 during a gun battle between two 20-year-old men on North Side as she and her friends played nearby. “Her mom will not get to talk to her about boys. She doesn’t have the chance to watch her child grow up and be successful,” Coach Tyler says of Amiyah’s grief-stricken mother, Kele Wright. “It was all taken from her.
Worker fired for doing mayor’s church work on the job
The Richmond Ambulance Authority quietly has terminated a high-ranking employee who was doing volunteer work for Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones’ church during business hours, the Free Press has learned. Pamela J. Branch, the authority’s chief human resources and legal officer for several years, was fired Feb. 24 after officials determined she spent time at the RAA doing work as clerk of First Baptist Church of South Richmond, where the mayor is senior pastor.
Henrico cop indicted
Kimberly McNeil made that plea to a Henrico County police officer who was firing into a car in which she was a passenger. Her plea went unanswered, a cousin recounted, as Officer Joel D. Greenway, continued shooting at her as her fiancé, Robert Davis, tried to drive away from the Exxon station where they had just purchased gas Dec. 15.
Telfair: I was never consulted on Petersburg water contract
Two years ago, cash-strapped Petersburg jumped at a deal that Johnson Controls Inc. was offering. As it has done across the country, the energy and industrial giant offered to pay for installing automated water meters to replace Petersburg’s 11,500 old and outdated meters. The new meters would transmit water usage data to a passing truck and eliminate the need to send staff to physically check meters every two months.
Pro-Confederate legislators make run to save symbols
Veto that bill, governor. That’s the cry from members of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus after the Republican-dominated General Assembly approved a bill that would bar localities from removing Confederate hate symbols from public property. “I voted against it, but now we can only hope that that the governor will use his veto pen,” said Delegate Jennifer L. McClellan.
Speakers support race video and name change for Byrd Middle School
Henrico County Public Schools has not banned the video on racism that upset some parents and their children at Glen Allen High School and created wider community turmoil when the Henrico County School Board chairwoman and superintendent apologized for it being shown. In an interview Tuesday, Andy Jenks, spokesperson for Henrico County schools, told the Free Press, “No,” when asked if the video has been banned.
Local Democrats jubilant over Clinton win
Two groups of Democratic supporters gathered Tuesday night at separate viewing parties two blocks apart at restaurants in Shockoe Bottom. Shortly after the polls closed at 7 p.m., both venues quickly transformed into jubilant celebrations of Hillary Clinton’s resounding win over U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders in Virginia’s presidential primary. When it was all said and done, Mrs. Clinton easily trounced Sen. Sanders in the state, winning 64.3 percent of the vote to his 35.2 percent.
Clinton, Trump win Super Tuesday
Super Tuesday proved super for Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Donald Trump. The two front-runners each won seven of the 11 state primary contests this week, including Virginia — putting each on course to win their party’s presidential nomination and face each other in a general election showdown.
Tuesday, March 1
VUU’s Chaz McKenzie named MVP of CIAA field events
Chazton McKenzie is the master of multitasking at Virginia Union University. The recent CIAA Indoor Track and Field Championships in Winston-Salem, N.C., served as a showcase for his versatility. “Chaz isn’t some average athlete. He’s a great athlete,” said VUU track Coach Wilbert Johnson. McKenzie’s academic major, business management, is apropos. He meticulously took care of business Feb. 14-15 at Winston-Salem’s JDL Fast Track.
VSU signs area high schoolers for Trojans football
C.J. Bynum was an All-State foot- ball offensive lineman this past fall for Highland Springs High School in Henrico County. Now he hopes to become an All-CIAA performer for Virginia State University. Bynum’s powerful blocking helped Highland Springs to the State Group 5A football championship. His postseason honors included All Conference 12, All- Region 5A South and 5A All-State.
