Friday, September 30
Reader weighs in on mayoral campaign
Re Editorial “Morrissey’s wife speaks her mind,” Sept. 22-24 edition:
‘Silencing nominees … stifles democracy’
The third party candidate for president, Libertarian Gary Johnson, the former governor of New Mexico, was deliberately excluded from the first presidential debate. He requested to be there, but was rejected.
When help becomes a fatal threat
As the news swirled around the killing of Terence Crutcher in Tulsa, Okla., and Keith Lamont Scott of Charlotte, N.C., I decided that my day was too busy to go out. I had a lot of writing to do and my Northwest Washington home seemed the best place to do it.
Feet to the fire
Almost each day brings a new report of the death of another African-American at the hands of police.
New National Museum of African American History and Culture opens to fanfare, tears
Black history officially has a new, prominent place in America’s story. With hugs, tears and the ringing of a church bell, the new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture opened its doors last Saturday to help this nation understand, reconcile and celebrate African-Americans’ often-ignored contributions toward making this country what it is today.
6 Junior Girl Scouts receive coveted Scouting award
For the first time in the troop’s history, six members of Girl Scout Troop 35 at Ebenezer Baptist Church have received the Girl Scout Bronze Award.
2nd Street Festival this weekend
The 28th Annual 2nd Street Festival is returning to Jackson Ward this weekend. On Saturday, Oct. 1, and Sunday, Oct. 2, people can enjoy music and entertainment at the festival, which is free and open to the public.
Clarence McGill and ‘Syracuse 8’ to speak Oct. 6 at lcoal school
Athletes like Colin Kaepernick and Marshawn Lynch are well known today for using their platforms as athletes to protest against injustice.
VUU celebrates homecoming Oct. 2-9
Professor, author and national commentator Michael Eric Dyson will speak at Virginia Union University’s 2016 Convocation at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 7, at the Allix B. James Chapel of Coburn Hall on the campus, 1500 Lombardy St.
‘Queen of Katwe’ opens Friday
She grew up in one of the poorest spots on earth. She couldn’t read or write. As a child, she scrounged for food and water each day for herself, her mother and her brother.
Panthers looking for 3-peat Saturday against St. Augustine’s
William “Will” Stanback suffered a misstep, of sorts, in Orlando, Fla., and lost all football traction. Now he’s back in full stride in Richmond. Call it the “Stanback comeback.”
VSU hoping for home winning streak starting Saturday against Livingstone
Virginia State University is hopeful of starting a new football winning streak Saturday, Oct. 1, on its home turf at Rogers Stadium.
HU’s Yahkee Johnson proves big talent comes in small packages
Yahkee Johnson gets low marks for height and weight but straight A’s for speed and elusiveness. Hampton University’s 5-foot-7, 160-pound junior tailback is like The Roadrunner in shoulder pads — beep, beep — and a No. 22 on his blue and white uniform. Tackling him would be easy, assuming you could catch him. So often, frustrated defenders are left clutching nothing but air.
TJ turns to man of the cloth for coaching
Thomas Jefferson High School is turning to a man of the cloth to lead its girls’ softball program. The Rev. Paul Brown officially will become the team’s coach in October, said TJ Activities Director Bill Holt.
MLB African-American managers square off in upcoming series
Major league baseball’s lone African-American managers are on a collision course. Both the Washington Nationals’ first-year skipper Dusty Baker, and Dave Roberts, in his first season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, have guided their squads to division titles. Baker’s National League East champs open a best-of-five series against Roberts’ NL West champs Friday, Oct. 7.
Faith in action
Sixth Mount Zion Baptist freely gives gifts to the community in latest outreach
More than 1,200 people packed First Baptist Church of South Richmond’s new satellite building in Chesterfield County last Sunday to worship to the beat of the drum line from Virginia Union University.
First Baptist of South Richmond opens to huge crowd
More than 1,200 people packed First Baptist Church of South Richmond’s new satellite building in Chesterfield County last Sunday to worship to the beat of the drum line from Virginia Union University.
Explore God’ discussion series in 140 area churches
That’s the title of a discussion series currently engaging an array of churches and thousands of people in the Richmond area.
Personality: Amanda Lewis
Spotlight on Miss Black America Virginia 2016-17
As a child, Amanda Lewis always dreamed of participating in beauty pageants, but never felt that she was “seen as pretty or attractive.”
Tyler drops out of mayor’s race; new poll shows Morrissey leading
A candidate for Richmond mayor dropped out Tuesday in a bid to help derail the acknowledged frontrunner, former Delegate Joseph D. “Joe” Morrissey.
End of an era
Harvey’s Progressive Barber Shop to close Downtown
For hundreds of Richmonders, Harvey’s Progressive Barber Shop in Downtown has been their go-to place for a haircut. No more.
Natural gas price rising for Richmond customers
The cost of natural gas — the fuel most Richmond residents cook and heat with and that many businesses use — is going up for the first time in more than two years.
Coalition hosts candidates forums Oct. 4, 11
A coalition of Richmond community and nonprofit organizations will hold a series of forums for voters to meet and hear from candidates for election.
Petersburg pays bond bill ahead of deadline
Dironna Moore Belton appears to be getting a handle on struggling Petersburg’s finances — although she has yet to find a way to secure the short-term loan she has called essential to keeping the city’s government afloat.
Winnie Mandela turns 80
Global Information Network Winnie Madikizela-Mandela reached octogenarian status this month and marked it at a celebratory party surrounded by top officials, musicians and family members.
Kaine-Pence vice presidential debate Oct.4 at Longwood University
Two developments are focusing fresh attention on battleground Virginia’s role in the presidential race.
Second chances
‘Ban the box’ has opened door for city employment
Richmond City Council’s decision to “ban the box” has helped hundreds of people with criminal records gain a second chance at employment in city jobs during the past four years.
Monroe Park to get a $6M renovation
Monroe Park is about to get a $6 million facelift. The nonprofit Monroe Park Conservancy raised the $3 million in private funds to contribute to the renovation of the 165-year-old park, clearing the way for work to begin in early November, it was announced Wednesday.
Richmond Ambulance Authority marks 25 years of service
For thousands of Richmond residents, the Richmond Ambulance Authority has been a lifesaver. On Wednesday, the ambulance service marked its 25th year of providing emergency medical services.
Free CPR instruction on Monday
Do you know how to give CPR to someone whose heart stops? VCU Health wants to make sure you do because cardiopulmonary resuscitation can double or triple the chance of survival.
Saturday, September 24
Morrissey’s wife speaks her mind
My husband, Joe Morrissey, is seeking to be Richmond’s next mayor. Tired of seeing so many people ignored in parts of our city, Joe wants to fight for those in every ward, doing everything from fixing potholes to overhauling our schools — be they off of Hull or Cary Street.
On ‘deplorables,’ Clinton was right
If you accept television pundit opinions, Hillary Clinton did a very bad thing. She called a portion of Donald J. Trump supporters “deplorables.”
Trump and the birthers
News Flash: Donald Trump now believes that President Obama was born in the country of which he is president.
Scot free
We are glad the sad, sordid saga of former Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, is finally over. On Sept. 8, federal prosecutors announced they would not seek a second trial against the pair on corruption charges after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned their convictions in June.
Profiling candidates
When it comes to African-Americans and other people of color in this country, it is going to get worse before it gets better.
Executive Mansion dedicates garden to memory of enslaved
Imagine living and working hundreds of miles away from your family for years, with no smartphone, no internet, no means of transportation and no sense of how far you are from home.
Emmy Awards filled with color, politics
Diversity ruled at Sunday’s Emmy Awards, where a record 21 nominees of color were up for the annual awards for television and cable shows in contrast to this year’s all-white Oscars acting lineup. Several took home Emmys, many for the first time.
Elegba Folklore to hold weekend programs
The Elegba Folklore Society will offer a weekend of dance theater and interactive workshops. On Saturday, Sept. 24, Elegba Folklore dancers will perform an original dance program, “African
Washington Wizards to practice in Richmond
The Washington Wizards, a pro basketball franchise with old ties to Richmond, are coming to Virginia Commonwealth University’s Siegel Center.
Coach Lancaster returns home for next chapter in legendary career
George Lancaster says there is one aspect of coaching he’s looking forward to even more than the home court advantage.
VUU beats CIAA defending champ Winston-Salem State
The clouds have parted, as least for now. After two deflating losses, the Virginia Union University Panthers are heading to Fayetteville State University this Saturday, Sept. 24, with a victory under their belts and a smile on their faces. Coach Mark James’ squad is 1-2 after a rousing 37-14 win last Saturday against its longtime nemesis, Winston-Salem State University.
VSU wins Kentucky matchup; meets Winston-Salem State on Saturday
Kavon Bellamy is listed as a running back, but battering ram might better describe his role for the Virginia State University Trojans. He pounds and pounds until he gets where he wants to go. The senior from Hampton leads the CIAA in rushing and, not coincidentally, the Trojans are off to a 3-0 start for the first time since 1997.
‘Lovable Losers’ get push this season from black players
The Chicago Cubs — that’s right, the Chicago Cubs! — are baseball’s very best team, at least for now. Nicknamed the “Lovable Losers,” the Cubbies haven’t won a World Series since 1908, which was eight years before they moved into quaint Wrigley Field on Chicago’s North Side.
Study puts monetary value on good works done by U.S. religious organizations
Religion News Service Religion is worth $1.2 trillion a year to the American economy, according to the first comprehensive study of the question. “In perspective, that would make religion the 15th largest national economy in the world, ahead of 180 other countries in terms of value,” according to the study’s author, Brian J. Grim, president of the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation and an associate scholar at Georgetown University’s Religious Freedom Project. “That would also make American religion larger than the global revenues of the top 10 tech companies, including Apple, Amazon and Google, or the combined annual revenue of the six largest American oil companies,” Dr. Grim said as he released the study Sept. 14 in a speech at the National Press Club in Washington. Dr. Grim understands why the religious and nonreligious alike might look upon the exercise of valuing religion’s contribution to the economy skeptically. To put a value on the work of the nation’s 344,000 religious congregations representing all faiths, Dr. Grim looked at the schools, the soup kitchens, the addiction recovery programs and other activities they run and the programs’ impacts on local economies. He found that congregations and religiously oriented charity groups are responsible for 130,000 alcohol and drug abuse recovery programs; 94,000 programs to support veterans and their families; 26,000 programs to prevent HIV/AIDS and to support people living with the disease; and 121,000 programs to train and support the unemployed. They also operate more than 50,000 schools. He also determined that churches, synagogues, mosques and other houses of worship employ hundreds of thousands of people and buy everything from flowers to computers to snow removal services. He believes the $1.2 trillion figure he came up with is a “conservative” valuation of the annual work of religious organizations in American society. Why crunch the numbers? Dr. Grim believes it is good to know the impact religion has on the nation. Dr. Grim also wants congregations and clergy — and the society that benefits from the charitable work— to appreciate the size of the contribution. In a country where people often hear much more about the evils committed by religious people — from sex abuse scandals to genocide — it’s time for some “balance,” Dr. Grim said. Even clergy often downplay the value of their work, said Ram Cnaan, director of the Program for Religion and Social Policy Research at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Cnaan, who attended the National Press Club presentation to help Dr. Grim unveil his work, said the study would allow the religious to take pride in their contributions. “This is a new day for the people who study congregations,” he said of Dr. Grim’s work, “The Socio-economic Contribution of Religion to American Society: An Empirical Analysis.” “This is the beginning of a national debate — not if religion is important but how much it is important,” Dr. Cnaan said. Dr. Grim said that secular organizations like the Red Cross and the Cancer Society and the host of other nonprofits certainly contribute generously to the social health of the nation. Indeed, he said if the work of the religiously motivated did not exist, “I don’t think we would see all the good of society disappearing. However, I think it would be significantly less.” William A. Galston, a Brookings Institution scholar and a former Clinton administration domestic policy adviser who writes on religion and society, called Dr. Grim’s estimate of $1.2 trillion “a sensible number.” Dr. Grim’s paper, Dr. Galston said, can be used by religious organizations as “a credible calling card to get in the door” of policymakers who have too long undervalued their importance to society.
Judge suggests Gov. Pence’s Syrian refugee ban rooted in religious bias
“Wait, wait,” Judge Frank H. Easterbrook said, taking a tone of dry incredulity. “The governor of Indiana knows more about the status of Syrian refugees than the U.S. State Department does?” On Sept. 14, a panel of three judges of the U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals lashed into Indiana Gov. Mike Pence’s attempted ban of Syrian refugees resettling in the state.
Andrew ‘Bo’ Hobbs, longtime TJ coach, dies at 57
Andrew Nicholas “Bo” Hobbs Jr., former athlete and basketball coach at Richmond’s Thomas Jefferson High School, died Monday, Sept. 19, 2016.
Winningest HU coach dies at 70
A memorial service for Henry “Hank” Ford, the most successful basketball coach in Hampton University history, will be held Saturday, Sept. 24, at Dickerson A.M.E. Church in Georgetown, S.C. Burial will follow in Santee, S.C.
Personality: Dr. Cheryl Ivey Green
Spotlight on new president of the Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Richmond and Vicinity
Dr. Cheryl Ivey Green wears many hats. She is the senior assistant to Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones. She is the executive minister of ministries at First Baptist Church of South Richmond. And she now is the new president of the Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Richmond and Vicinity. Elected to the post in May, Dr. Ivey Green was installed as president in an evening ceremony last Sunday at First Baptist.
New D.C. museum opens with links to local people, history
When the National Museum of African American History and Culture opens this weekend with fanfare, a dedication ceremony Saturday with President Obama and other dignitaries and an anticipated crowd of thousands, a 130-year-old bell shipped to the museum from Williamsburg will ring — and acknowledge history.
State seeks improvement in RPS special ed
The Virginia Department of Education is not satisfied with the state of special education in Richmond Public Schools, according to a report delivered Monday night to the Richmond School Board — the first meeting of the academic year.
Va. Supreme Court rejects contempt charge for governor
Gov. Terry McAuliffe is now free to keep restoring the voting rights of felons who have served their time — a relief to more than 18,000 people whose rights he has restored since Aug. 22. The Virginia Supreme Court refused to wade further into this increasingly partisan battle and threw out another Republican attempt to restrict the governor’s constitutional authority to restore voting rights.
Richmond Crusade for Voters endorses Morrissey
Joseph D. “Joe” Morrissey picked up his first significant endorsement this week in the race for Richmond’s mayor, winning the backing of the Richmond Crusade for Voters.
President Obama motivates voters at Congressional Black Caucus dinner
President Obama had barely begun his remarks Saturday night before shouts of “I love you!” came from the audience, tributes to his final speech to the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Phoenix Awards Dinner.
Family of Sandra Bland reaches $1.9M settlement in her Texas death
The family of an African-American motorist found hanged in her Texas jail cell after being held in police custody following a traffic stop has reached a $1.9 million settlement in a wrongful death suit against law enforcement, their lawyer said last week.
Trouble doubles
Petersburg’s creditors lining up, suing to get paid
Dironna Moore Belton is counting on a flood of money pouring into Petersburg’s treasury in coming days from residents paying their first quarter property tax bills.
Gary L. Flowers fills in Jack Gravely’s time slot with new talk show on WREJ radio
Richmond native and activist Gary L. Flowers hit the airwaves this week as a new voice on Rejoice Radio.
Gov. McAuliffe’s lawyers take aim at GOP contempt claim
Attorneys for Gov. Terry McAuliffe are urging the state Supreme Court to throw out a Republican request that he be held in contempt for his new effort to restore the voting rights of felons. Led by Virginia Attorney General Mark R. Herring, the legal team argues that the unprecedented contempt request from Republican House Speaker William J. Howell and Senate Majority Leader Thomas K. Norment is “baseless.”
Free physical therapy clinic to help those who cannot afford service
A free physical therapy clinic run by students will open at Virginia Commonwealth University on Wednesday, Sept. 21, it has been announced.
Richmond NAACP hosts candidates forum Sept. 27
The Richmond Branch NAACP will host its second forum for candidates for Richmond City Council and the Richmond School Board at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 27, at Third Street Bethel A.M.E. Church, 614 N. 3rd St., it has been announced.
Friday, September 16
‘Right on, Mr. Kaepernick’
Re “49ers quarterback under fire for sitting during national anthem,” Sept. 1-3 edition: I read with great interest your article concerning Colin Kaepernick. It did indeed take great courage to voice his convictions concerning the national anthem and its doctrines and dogmas.
A note from Mother Nature
It’s me, Mother Nature. Sorry about all of my nasty weather. I know it really interferes with your human lives here on planet Earth. But it’s your fault that you have this climate change.
Scott, unlike others, serves interests of his constituents
Re editorial “Scott for U.S. Senate,” Sept. 1-3 edition: Thank you for recommending that Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott become U.S. Sen. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott.
Kaepernick’s action offers wider opportunity
“And where is that band who so vauntingly swore/That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion, A home and a country, should leave us no more? Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps’ pollution. No refuge could save the hireling and slave/ From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave: And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave, O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave…”
The Trump campaign façade
The verity of Donald J. Trump’s popularity with many in this nation should not come as a surprise. There are scores of people who have been made to feel as though they have been painted into a corner by forces — real or imagined — that are beyond their control. Mr. Trump, being the arrogant mastermind of situational exploitation and grandiose self-promotion, has managed to effectively prey upon the fears of those who have harbored aversion of those they deem to be unlike them.
Petersburg’s problems
We remember the chilling headline in a New York newspaper when the Big Apple was facing bankruptcy.
Richmond native, fashion designer returns for Fashion Design and Art Week
Raymona Thomas has created the career in fashion that she dreamed about growing up in Church Hill. Now known as JustRaymona, she has explored every inch of the fashion world as a seamstress, a model, a clothing merchandiser, a designer for the likes of Mary J. Blige, Busta Rhymes and Lady Gaga and as a star on fashion reality shows such as Lifetime’s “24 Hour Catwalk.”
3-day AFRIKANA Independent Film Festival debuts
The AFRIKANA Independent Film Festival, featuring more than 30 films from four continents, panel discussions and events with directors and movie score producers, will debut Thursday, Sept.15, and continue through Sunday, Sept. 18.
Arte!’ exhibit opens Friday at Pine Camp
The Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities is hosting “Arte!” — an exhibit in commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Nottoway Indian powwow this weekend in Surry County
The Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia will host a powwow Saturday, Sept. 17, and Sunday, Sept. 18, at the Surry County Parks and
Murals to be painted in Jackson Ward
Five local artists will commemorate the unsung heroes and history of Jackson Ward
Sickle cell walk steps out Sept. 24
Living with Sickle Cell RVA, in partnership with the Beta Epsilon Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., will hold a “Sickle Cell Walk for Life” on Saturday, Sept. 24, at Virginia Union University. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with the walk starting at 9:30 a.m.
TJ High players: ‘This is our year’
Power plus speed plus agility equals Jalen “Buddy” Jackson. The 16-year-old Thomas Jefferson High School junior is that special tailback capable of giving tacklers a headache running over them or a head cold whooshing past them.
VSU wins home opener
When former NFL wide receiver Reggie Barlow was hired as Virginia State University football coach, many felt he would install a wide-open passing game. That may eventually come.
VUU Panthers trip themselves with 3 interceptions, 12 penalties
Two games into its football season, Virginia Union University has no wins and lots of problems. Tormented by penalties and turnovers, the Panthers now face a road trip to play CIAA juggernaut Winston-Salem State University on Saturday, Sept. 17.
UR wallops NSU; HU beat by W&M
Life on the visitors’ side of Robins Stadium didn’t go well for former University of Richmond football Coach Latrell Scott.
University of Illinois making history
The University of Illinois football program is making history. The Big 10 Conference member is the lone FBS school with an African-American head coach — Lovie Smith — and African-American offensive and defensive coordinators — Garrick McGee and Hardy Nickerson, respectively.
Athletes of all ages across nation join in anthem protest
Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid once again kneeled during the national anthem before the San Francisco 49ers’ season opener Monday night against the Los Angeles Rams in Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco.
Serena breaks match record but loses U.S. Open
Serena Williams won her 308th Grand Slam match, surpassing Roger Federer with more victories in Grand Slam matches than anyone else in tennis’ Open era, after beating Yaroslava Shvedova 6-2, 6-3 on Sept. 5 in the U.S. Open quarterfinals.
First Baptist’s new Chesterfield sanctuary to hold first service; probe of mayor-pastor continues
First Baptist Church of South Richmond is close to opening its satellite church in Chesterfield County, a project that has proven a trouble spot for its senior pastor, Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones. After more than 2 ½ years of construction, the 1,400-seat sanctuary in the 6200 block of Iron Bridge Road is expected to be ready for its first service Sunday, Sept. 25, church officials said Monday. The church’s website indicates the new sanctuary would serve as the site for the 9:15 a.m. service now held at Chesterfield County high school.
Clinton talks faith, policy issues at National Baptist Convention, USA
Talking about one’s faith doesn’t come naturally to a “Midwestern Methodist,” Hillary Clinton admitted.
Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid al-Adha
Muslims around the world — and in Metro Richmond — are celebrating the holiday Eid al-Adha this week. It is one of the two most important festivals of the Islamic calendar. It began Monday and lasts until Thursday, Sept. 15.
Personality: Danielle Ebelle
Spotlight on 2016 White House Initiative HBCU All-Star
Virginia Union University senior Danielle Ebelle walked into a conference room where seated were Dr. Joseph Johnson, VUU’s acting president; Dr. Latrelle Green, dean of the School of Mathematics, Science and Technology; and Dr. Carleitta Paige-Anderson, director of the Center of Undergraduate Research, flanked by other professors, academic advisers and deans.
‘Checkered past’ tanks Petersburg’s top pick
Petersburg Mayor W. Howard Myers expected to introduce Rochelle Small-Toney as the new city manager Wednesday evening
New Church Hill grocery gets green light
Richmond City Council cleared the way Monday for a variety of new developments, including a new grocery store in Church Hill, after listening to activists lobby for expanding a slavery memorial site in Shockoe Bottom.
City Council proposes honor for late Free Press founder Raymond H. Boone
Richmond City Council is poised to honor the late Raymond H. Boone, founder, publisher and editor of the Richmond Free Press.
Thursday, September 15
RPS students chosen for unique Washington experience
Forty high school students from Richmond Public Schools will attend the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s National Town Hall on Thursday, Sept. 15, in Washington.
Richmond Democratic Committee and REA endorse Stoney
Richmond mayoral candidate Levar Stoney has picked up two significant, but not unexpected endorsements.
Tree at Walker site to be removed this weekend
The live oak tree that has dominated a gateway to Jackson Ward for nearly 30 years will be coming down this weekend to make way for a new statue and plaza honoring Richmond business leader Maggie L. Walker.
McDonnell, wife free; facing $10M legal bill
Former Gov. Bob McDonnell is officially a free man, but he paid a heavy price to get there. Federal prosecutors announced late last week they will not pursue a second trial against Mr. McDonnell or his wife, Maureen McDonnell, on corruption charges. The decision, announced Sept. 8, comes more than two months after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned his conviction.
Losing ground
City public schools slide on accreditation; only 13 of city’s 44 schools fully accredited
Report cards are in for Richmond Public Schools. And many of the city’s schools didn’t make the grade, according to the Virginia Board of Education. Only 13 of the city’s 44 schools received full accreditation, down four from the 17 schools that met state standards last year.
FAMIS program reaches 15th anniversary with more than 1 million youngsters covered
More than 1.6 million low-income Virginia children have benefited from government health insurance programs during the past 15 years.
8 scholarship winners announced by Richmond Better Housing Coalition
The Richmond Better Housing Coalition has named eight adult residents as winners of its first college scholarships.
Friday, September 9
Trump ‘talking loud and saying nothing’
Donald Trump is not fit to be the U.S. commander in chief. Reasons?
Hate crime?
About three weeks ago, I found a wallet outside the Main Library in Richmond. When I looked inside, I found an address on North 21st Street. I decided I would return the person’s wallet and took an East Broad Street bus to 21st Street, thinking I would only have a short walk to the person’s home.
‘We took oath so that he would have the freedom to do what he did’
I am a veteran of two branches of our armed forces, and I support the actions of Colin Kaepernick without reservation.
Ex-Green Beret weighs in
Re “49ers quarterback under fire for sitting during national anthem,” Sept. 1-3 edition:
Raising minimum wage is good policy
Today, full-time work year-round at the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour leaves an adult with two children earning thousands of dollars below the poverty threshold. That is unacceptable. No one who works full time should live in poverty. But the Republican-controlled Congress has refused to even consider legislation to raise the minimum wage.
15 years after the 9/11 attacks, where is our nation?
This year is the 15th anniversary of 9/11. There will be numerous memorials remembering those who died and processing the tragedy and trauma visited upon our national community. This will be a necessary and good thing for us as Americans to do.
A new school year
The new school year has started. And that truly is a cause for celebration.
Former Va. official’s Ginter Park home featured as Symphony Designer House
Imagine a team of area interior designers completely remodeling or redesigning each room of your home at no cost to you. And when they’re finished, your home becomes a four-week showcase open to the public.
Politics served up at Rep. Scott’s Labor Day cookout
More than 1,000 people enjoyed hot dogs, hamburgers and politics Monday at the 40th Annual Labor Day Cookout hosted by Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott at his family home in Newport News.
Documentary on Elizabeth Keckly to be shown Sept.16 at VMFA
A documentary exploring the life of Elizabeth Keckly, who was born enslaved in Dinwiddie County and later purchased her freedom to become a dressmaker and confidante of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln, will be shown 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16, at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
12th Annual RVA Peace Festival this Saturday
The 12th Annual RVA Peace Festival, featuring performances, art, a meditation labyrinth and workshops, will be held 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 6000 Grove Ave.
UR international film series includes African Film Weekend
The University of Richmond is hosting its 28th Annual International Film Series, beginning Friday, Sept. 9 through Nov. 20.
‘Back 2 School’ drive for A.P. Hill Elementary in Petersburg
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary Post 622 of Petersburg is sponsoring a “Back 2 School” drive for A.P. Hill Elementary School students on Saturday, Sept. 17.
3 VUU players on watch list for inaugural Deacon Jones Trophy
Virginia Union University’s Shawheem Dowdy, Hakeem Holland and Paulin Miano are on the first Deacon Jones Trophy watch list.
VUU loses to LIU-Post; looking for victory in S.C.
Virginia Union University is an NCAA Division II football program with plenty of Division I talent. Some exciting Division I transfers made a positive impression but couldn’t produce a victory in VUU’s rainy opener last Saturday before 757 fans at Hovey Field in Richmond.
VSU opens at home on Saturday; defeated Lenoir-Rhyne University in first game
After just one game, Virginia State University football Coach Reggie Barlow has earned a Gatorade shower, a game ball and, best of all, a resounding road victory. The Coach Barlow era began gloriously last Saturday with a 34-9 victory over Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, N.C.
NSU plays UR at Robins Stadium; HU takes on W&M at home
There was a time not so long ago when no man on earth wanted to see the University of Richmond win a football game more than Coach Latrell Scott.
African-Americans hold key NFL coaching, quarterback positions
The NFL season opens this weekend with five African-American head coaches and likely six African-American starting quarterbacks representing the 32 teams.
Trump, accompanied by Steve Parson, met by protesters, half-filled pews at Detroit church
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump stepped up his bid to win over minority voters by addressing a largely black church in Detroit last Saturday and calling for a new civil rights agenda to support African-Americans.
St. Paul’s Episcopal to host rally supporting minimum wage hike
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Downtown will host a rally to support raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour, it has been announced.
Celebration Sept.17 honoring gospel musician Bubba Johnson
Gospel singer, songwriter and musician Bubba Johnson will be honored for his contributions to gospel music at “The 50 Year Journey Celebration: Honoring Gospel Pioneer Bubba Johnson” at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at Jerusalem Baptist Church, 16210 Short Cut Road in Doswell.
William ‘Bill’ Anderson, 68, retired U.Va. clinical psychologist dies
For more than three decades, Dr. William Henry “Bill” Anderson played a key role in providing mental health services for students at the University of Virginia.
Personality: Elliott Eddie
Spotlight on Toastmasters International Top 10 public speaker
Ever since Elliott Eddie was a child, he could run his mouth like a steam engine, his cousin says. Mr. Eddie’s oratorical skills, refined through the years and sprinkled with inspiration, have earned him a top international award.
GOP ups ante to block felons’ rights restoration
Gov. Terry McAuliffe is facing a new challenge from the Republican-dominated Virginia General Assembly to his authority to restore the rights of felons who have served their time — even on a case-by-case basis.
Petersburg City Council raises taxes, cuts funding to keep city afloat
Smokers will pay an extra 80 cents in tax for each pack of cigarettes they buy inside the city limits of Petersburg beginning Oct. 1 — a move the city officials hope will generate $900,000 a year in much needed revenue.
Retrial for former governor?
The U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal corruption convictions against former Gov. Bob McDonnell in June.
Scott readying for statewide race
U.S. Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott may be gearing up for a statewide race.
Richmond hosts 9/11 memorial Friday
Richmond will host a memorial program and a day of service Friday, Sept. 9, to mark the 15th anniversary of the terrorists attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, better known as 9/11, it has been announced. Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones will lead the commemoration 8:30 a.m. at Marshall Plaza, 900 E. Marshall St., with the ringing of bells and a moment of silence.
Mother Teresa lifted to sainthood
Mother Teresa, the tiny nun who devoted her life to the poor, was declared a saint by Pope Francis at the Vatican as he celebrated her “daring and courage” and described her as a role model for all people during his year of mercy.
Georgetown begins atonement for role in slavery
Georgetown University apologized for its historical links to slavery and said last week it would give an admissions edge to descendants of slaves whose sale in the 19th century helped pay off the school’s debts.
President Obama nominates Muslim American to federal judiciary
President Obama nominated a Washington attorney for the federal bench Tuesday. If confirmed, he would be the first Muslim American to serve as a federal judge. President Obama nominated Abid Riaz Qureshi of Maryland for the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.
Bill Cosby to go on trial in June 2017
Bill Cosby’s sexual assault trial in Pennsylvania has been scheduled for June. And if prosecutors have their way, more than a dozen accusers will take the stand to detail what they claim is a decades-long pattern of attacks.
Stuck at start
New RPS bus plan adds to first day issues
At 7:35 a.m. Tuesday, sixth-grader Ayanna Street and her mother, Yakysha Langhorne, stood excitedly outside Westover Hills Elementary School waiting for Ayanna’s scheduled 7:53 a.m. school bus to take her to Binford Middle School.
Attorney General’s decision clears way for Mosby, Starlings to remain on ballot
An opinion from Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring appears to clear the way for Richmond City Council President Michelle R. Mosby to remain a candidate for mayor and for businessman Kevin A. Starlings to challenge incumbent School Board member Jeffrey M. Bourne for the 3rd District seat. The Richmond Electoral Board, which is to meet Thursday, Sept. 1, is expected to embrace Mr. Herring’s legal advice and keep both candidates on the Nov. 8 ballot, the Free Press has been told in advance of the meeting.
Disabled student advocate arrested again
More trouble has hit Kandise Lucas, a Henrico resident and advocate for parents of schoolchildren with special needs. On Monday, she was arraigned on a charge of trespassing at Glen Allen High School in Henrico County.
Nicholson new Crusade president
The Richmond Crusade for Voters has changed its leadership. Corey M. Nicholson is now the president of the city’s oldest and largest African-American political group.
VSU enrolls 1,000 students in freshman class
Virginia State University is reporting that nearly 1,000 freshmen enrolled for the fall semester, a rebound from 2015 when
Work to start Sept. 6 on Belmont Road roundabout
Work is to begin Tuesday, Sept. 6, on a new $700,000 traffic
Friday, September 2
Black votes must be won, not inherited
Donald Trump made a pitch for black votes in his own inimitable fashion. Speaking recently in a virtually all-white suburb of Detroit, he suggested that African-American communities are “suffering from Democratic control.”
While athletes speak out, Trump drops ball
Donald Trump is a political commentator’s dream in the usually news-challenged weeks of late summer when we’re looking for someone to complain about.
Scott for U.S. Senate
What happens if the Democrats win the presidential election in November, and Tim Kaine, who represents Virginia in the U.S. Senate, becomes the vice president? Who would fill his vacant Senate seat?
Beyoncé at awards show with mothers of slain black men
Renowned artist Romare Bearden is most widely known for his use of multiple mediums and artistic styles, but few are aware that Mr. Bearden worked more than 30 years as a social worker with the New York City Department of Social Services. Visitors to the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia will have the opportunity to explore how Mr. Bearden’s multiple careers and identities have influenced his celebration of blackness through visual art.
Romare Bearden exhibit to open Sept. 13 at Black History Museum
Renowned artist Romare Bearden is most widely known for his use of multiple mediums and artistic styles, but few are aware that Mr. Bearden worked more than 30 years as a social worker with the New York City Department of Social Services. Visitors to the Black History Museum & Cul- tural Center of Virginia will have the opportunity to explore how Mr. Bearden’s multiple careers and identities have influenced his celebration of blackness through visual art.
Conference on after-effects of Sept.11 attacks
The American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia and the Richmond Peace Education Center will host a daylong conference on the ideological shifts in immigration and deportation, national security and military aggression in the United States since the terrorists attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
George Wythe wins opener for first time in 13 years
George Wythe High School found a quality quarterback and a long overdue victory all in the same week. As a result, the Bulldogs are 1-0 for the first time since 2003. “I saw some good things and some bad things. That’s always how a coach looks at it,” second-year head Coach Dion Foxx said after his 8-6 win last Friday at Armstrong High School.
Armstrong bracing for bigger opponents
Armstrong High School football Coach McDaniel Anderson says he is searching for a cure for what he calls “the inner city blues.”
VUU Panthers face LIU-Post in Saturday’s season opener
Virginia Union University football players need to be strong, fast and tough. They also need a dependable alarm clock.
VSU opens on the road at Lenoir-Rhyne University
Coach Reggie Barlow had the good fortune in 1999 to play on a Jacksonville Jaguars squad that showcased two of NFL’s elite ball carriers — Fred Taylor and James Stewart.
MEAC’s HU, NSU kick off season with evening games Saturday
Hampton University and Norfolk State University are taking different approaches to their football openers. HU is traveling to face a higher division program, Old Dominion University, while NSU is playing at home at Dick Price Stadium to meet a lower division opponent, Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina.
Not in Kansas anymore, White transferring to Syracuse University
New York state and Chester, Va., never felt so close. Syracuse University advanced to the NCAA basketball Final Four last season with senior Michael Gbinije a primary contributor.
49ers quarterback under fire for sitting during national anthem
NFL Quarterback Colin Kaepernick of the San Francisco 49ers refused to stand for the national anthem before a preseason game last Friday, drawing boos from some fans and criticism on social media, but his team said they backed his right to protest.
Dr. Berry leaving Fourth Baptist to lead Georgia megachurch
Dr. Emory Berry Jr. is bidding Richmond farewell after nearly six years of leading the 600-member Fourth Baptist Church in Church Hill.
Tim Kaine’s North Side church picketed
Churchgoers at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in North Side were greeted by picketers last Sunday when they left 9 a.m. Mass.
Annual Labor Day back-to-school shoe giveaway at 2 sites
For the first time, two churches will serve as host sites for the annual “New Shoes for Back-to-School” giveaway on Labor Day.
Religion bullying focus of U.S. education website
Dapinder Ahluwalia’s 14-year-old son starts high school next month. Like many parents, she’ll spend the last days of summer ensuring he has the right school supplies and a copy of his class schedule.
Personality: Gary L. Flowers
Spotlight on local coordinator of ASALH 101st annual convention
Black history — for people of all ethnic backgrounds — is a requirement and not an elective in understanding the common origins of all people, says Gary L. Flowers.
Morrissey ahead in polls, but battles to keep law license
Attorney Joseph D. “Joe” Morrissey appears to be riding high in his quest to become Richmond’s next mayor. But he also continues to be dogged by the sex scandal that landed him in jail in 2014 and a fresh effort to strip him of his law license. Mr. Morrissey, who was once the city’s chief prosecutor and now is a defense attorney, has emerged as the front-runner in the eight-way race to replace Mayor Dwight C. Jones, the first public poll of the race indicates.
North Side sees signs of growth, renewal
A new wave of investment is beginning to pour into Richmond’s North Side. During the next two years, private and nonprofit developers are gearing up to invest more than $50 million in new houses and apartments, mostly along 1st and 2nd avenues in Highland Park.
Woodland, Evergreen cemeteries for sale
A Richmond foundation is pursuing the purchase of two historic, but privately held African-American cemeteries, the Free Press has learned.
Rep. Scott’s Labor Day cookout
A 40-year tradition of serving hot dogs, politics
How often can you walk into a cookout, grab a hot dog and chat with U.S. senators, several Virginia mayors and perhaps the governor, without paying thousands?
Superintendent starting school year with optimism, plan
If at first you don’t succeed, try again. Superintendent Dana T. Bedden is taking that familiar saying to heart when it comes to academic improvement in Richmond Public Schools.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu hospitalized
Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu is responding well to treatment for a recurring infection, his daughter, Thandeka Tutu-Gxashe said this week.
Trump defends wall in meeting with Mexico’s president
Once referring to Republican presidential nominee Donald J. Trump as comparable to Benito Mussolini and Adolph Hitler, Mexico’s President Enrique Peña Nieto expressed optimism that he and Mr. Trump could work together.
Tappahannock’s Chris Brown in trouble with the law — again
Grammy-winning singer and Virginia native Chris Brown and the Los Angeles Police Department spent much of Tuesday morning and afternoon locked in a surreal standoff at the R&B performer’s Tarzana, Calif., home. According to LAPD officials, the incident began early Tuesday when they received a 911 call about a woman claiming she had been threatened with a gun.
FBI detects breaches in two state voter systems
The FBI has found breaches in Illinois’ and Arizona’s voter registration databases and is urging states to increase computer security ahead of the Nov. 8 presidential election, according to a U.S. official familiar with the probe.
GOP at it again
Republican leaders seek to hold Va. governor in contempt for restoring voting rights of 13,000 former felons last week
Gov. Terry McAuliffe once again is under attack from Republican leaders in the General Assembly who are determined to halt his efforts to restore the voting and political rights of hundreds of thousands of felons who have served their time. In a new filing Wednesday, GOP leaders asked the Virginia Supreme Court to hold the Democratic governor in contempt for restoring the political rights of 13,000 felons last week and for trying to do so in coming months for more than 200,000 others who have completed their sentences.
Electoral Board seeking legal decision on candidate qualification
Richmond has put a hold on printing ballots for the Nov. 8 general election while the city’s Electoral Board tries to figure out whether two candidates’ names should be listed.
Public hearing Aug. 31 on banning firearms in state executive branch offices
The state Department of General Services will hold a public hearing next week on its proposed permanent regulation banning concealed firearms in the state’s executive branch offices. The hearing will be 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Aug. 31, in the auditorium of the Pocahontas Building, 900 E. Main St. in Richmond.
Nonprofit helps students with scholarships
A Richmond area nonprofit is seeking to assist parents to obtain state scholarships to enroll children with dyslexia, autism or other learning challenges in accredited private schools.
