Friday, March 31
Year-round April Fool’s Day
April Fools’ Day can remind us that the meat, egg and dairy industries have been playing us for fools year-round. Their more remarkable hoaxes include “California’s happy cows,” “free-range chickens” and “humane slaughter.” All are cruel lies.
Does Trump really want to hire Americans?
The H-2A visa guest worker program enables employers who anticipate a shortage of seasonal labor services to request to bring in foreign workers to do the labor. Trump Vineyard estates property in Charlottesville is requesting these work visas to hire 29 non-immigrant foreign workers from other countries to perform agricultural work and labor in his winery vineyards.
EPA cuts will have disproportionate impact on communities of color
President Trump’s plan to make significant cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency shows not only a lack of concern for public health and safety, but perhaps more perniciously, a lack of understanding for environmental injustices faced by minorities in Virginia and across the country.
Stand and fight ‘evil trinity of racism, classism and sexism’
We must boldly declare and decree throughout the entire landscape of America that “Black Lives Matter” in this forward fight against the clear and present evil of overt and covert racism.
Trail of tears
Most people who are keenly observant of or listen closely to President Trump will recognize that he is a fan of President Andrew Jackson. If “fan” is overzealous, it can be said that President Jackson
Urban League says ‘no’ to Gorsuch
“Overall, we conclude that there is an inadequate record to determine if Judge Gorsuch has a commitment to protecting and safeguarding civil rights and, therefore, we do not believe he satisfies the second prong of our requirement for endorsement. Based upon our review of Judge Gorsuch’s record, we have concerns that he has a narrow view of rights that are protected by the Constitution, as well as a skeptical view about the importance of protecting those rights in the courtroom. In short, Judge Gorsuch’s record does not allow us to support his nomination for the Supreme Court at this time.”
Double congratulations
Congratulations to Coach AnneMarie Gilbert and the Virginia Union University Lady Panthers, the Atlantic region champions who took it to the hoop all the way to the NCAA Division II finals!
Trump unmasked
We learned with last week’s whopping defeat of Trumpcare that President Trump and the GOP leaders in Congress are frauds.
Investigate, please
Complaints continue about a reported regime of discipline within Richmond area public schools that unfairly targets African-American students and African-American students with disabilities.
VSU president tells vision for ‘opportunity university’ at investiture
The mood was light and upbeat, hopeful yet determined at the investiture service last Friday for Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, Virginia State University’s 14th president. “I first met him … as a dashiki-wearing dude from Chicago,” said Dr. Henry Lewis, former president of Florida Memorial University and a former boss of Dr. Abdullah, who served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at the Miami Gardens, Fla., institution during Dr. Lewis’ tenure.
Carillon event to commemorate 100th anniversary of World War I
The Virginia World War I and World War II Commemoration Commission will recognize the 100th anniversary of the United States entering World War I with an event Thursday, April 6, at Richmond’s WWI memorial — the Carillon in Byrd Park. The Carillon, a 240-foot bell tower at 1300 Blanton Ave. in the city’s West End, was dedicated in 1932 to honor the 3,700 Virginians who died in the war.
VUU holds annual scholarship gala April 7
The fifth annual Virginia Union University Scholarship Gala and Masquerade Ball will be 6 p.m. Friday, April 7, at the Richmond Marriott, 500 E. Broad St. in Downtown. The benefit, black-tie event will be hosted this year by Richmond Mayor Levar M.
School Board approves new Boys & Girls Club at MLK Middle School
A new Boys & Girls Club is to be built on the grounds of the Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in the East End.
Sheila Johnson to speak at UR commencement
Sheila Johnson, founding partner of Black Entertainment Television and founder and CEO of Salamander Hotels & Resorts, will deliver the main commencement address this year at the University of Richmond.
VUU women return home to cheers despite loss in NCAA final
In judging the stunning success of Virginia Union University women’s basketball, you hardly know where to begin. Out of some 320 programs, the Lady Panthers finished second overall this season, losing last Friday in the NCAA Division II Tournament final 93-77 to undefeated Ashland University of Ohio.
Teams ready for Final Four in Arizona
Get ready for the NCAA Final Four. Here’s a primer on the four teams remaining in the March Madness competition.
In judging the stunning success of Virginia Union University women’s basketball, you hardly know where to begin. Out of some 320 programs, the Lady Panthers finished se
30,000 entrants expected for Saturday’s Monument Ave. 10K
The annual Monument Avenue 10K, famous for its live bands and party atmosphere, has become a race for the swift and, yes, the not so swift.
Richmond Flying Squirrels open the season April 6 at The Diamond
Minor league baseball teams such as the Richmond Flying Squirrels can’t promise their fans championship banners, home-run sluggers or pitchers throwing no-hitters.
Black Widows have new home field
The Richmond Black Widows will have a new home field for their second season in the full contact Women’s Football Association.
Parson and backers initially barred then allowed to worship at RCC
“We’re back. And we’re not going away.” So said Pastor Stephen A. Parson Sr. after he successfully led nearly 40 supporters without incident into the Richmond Christian Center on Sunday to take part in the 8 a.m. worship service.
Roger Wilkins, historian, activist, dies at 85
Roger Wilkins, a historian, journalist and activist who held a key civil rights post in President Lyndon B. Johnson’s administration and helped The Washington Post win the coveted Pulitzer Prize for its Watergate coverage, died Sunday, March 26, 2017.
Personality: Megan Walker
Spotlight on nation’s No.1 ranked high school basketball player
Megan Walker began playing basketball when she was 4 at a local YMCA
Thursday, March 30
‘Voices from the Garden’ monument in Capitol Square to honor Va. women
A new monument to Virginia women is planned to rise in about two-and-a-half years on the grounds of the State Capitol to celebrate the impact women have had on the commonwealth and the nation.
Seed money stalled for city’s Whitcomb Court redevelopment
With the transformation of the Creighton Court public housing community underway, Richmond City Hall is seeking to change a second public housing community, Whitcomb Court, into a mixed-income community.
Crusade weighs charter change to help replace decrepit city schools
The Richmond Crusade for Voters, the city’s oldest and largest African-American political group, is considering putting the city’s failure to overhaul its decaying public school buildings on the front burner.
Wilder School panel calls for renewed civic engagement
Former Virginia Gov. L. Douglas Wilder and a panel of political experts called for renewed hope and civic engagement as ways to heal the nation’s current divided political climate.
City Hall sponsors RVA Photog competition
You can by participating in Richmond City Hall’s second annual RVA Photog competition that will focus on Shockoe Bottom, it has been announced.
Obamacare lives; Trumpcare DOA
Obamacare lives! That was the jubilant cry last week as President Trump’s attempt to roll back health insurance for millions of Americans suffered a stunning defeat.
Unequal punishment
Rep. McEachin requests federal investigation into high suspension rates for African-American students and those with disabilties
Congressman A. Donald McEachin has asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate the disproportionately high suspension rates for African-American students and students with disabilities in his district. His request, made in a letter Monday to U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, seeks a prompt review by the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights.
New restaurant on Brookland Park Blvd.
The closed Streetcar Café is about to replaced with a new restaurant at 10 E. Brookland Park Blvd. in North Side. The Luncheonette, an outlet based in Shockoe Bottom, has leased the 1,800-square-foot space from the nonprofit Nehemiah Community Development Corp., according to the online Richmond BizSense.
Unemployment rate in Va. drops to 4%
People like Percy Bell appear to be having an easier time finding work as unemployment returns to levels of nine years ago and employers begin to strain to fill openings.
Regional registration for kindergarten April 20
Registration for youngsters in 150 public elementary schools around the Richmond region is Thursday, April 20. This marks the sixth year a regional registration day will be held for 13 school districts in and around Richmond. The event is coordinated by Smart Beginnings Greater Richmond in an effort to have parents get the needed paperwork together in time for registration.
Friday, March 24
Cindy Menz-Erb chosen for School Board 3rd District seat
Cindy Menz-Erb, a former nonprofit agency executive who moved to Richmond last year, was sworn in Tuesday as the new 3rd District representative on the Richmond School Board. She replaces Jeff Bourne, who stepped down after winning a special election in early February to the Virginia House of Delegates.
A slew of changes needed in D.C.
To get more money in, we need new tax laws.
What will happen to people under Trumpcare?
Re “Report forecasts millions would lose health insurance under Trumpcare,” March 16-18 edition: What will happen to the 24 million people who would lose their health insurance under Trumpcare? We all know in our hearts that this is wrong.
Exclusion ‘appalling but unsurprising’
Re “Sessions seeks to revive federal anti-crime program that targeted African-Americans,” March 16-18 edition: Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ failure, perhaps calculated, to invite the Richmond Free Press to his meeting in Richmond is appalling but unsurprising.
Kudos on Free Press coverage
Re “Nat Turner links black, white George Wythe High alumni,” March 2-4 edition: Thank you for including the Nat Turner article in your fine newspaper and sharing the story of Nat Turner’s descendants and what happened back in 1831 on Virginia soil.
Could the current allegations against the sitting president arising from contact with the Russians justify impeachment? The history of impeachment is short, usually used to remove judges. The history
Could the current allegations against the sitting president arising from contact with the Russians justify impeachment?
Trump milking taxpayers
President Trump doesn’t want to spend federal dollars on after-school programs, meals for poor people or heating assistance that helps keep folks alive. But he has no problem wasting more than $3 million a pop to spend weekends at his private Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.
Hero or goat?
Richmond schools Superintendent Dana T. Bedden had an $8.3 million secret that popped out recently — that $8.3 million sits in an “unassigned fund balance” for Richmond Public Schools.
Maymont Farm to reopen with celebration Sunday
Maymont Farm will reopen Sunday, March 26, after being closed for 10 months to undergo a $3 million facelift.
Tim Reid holds 2nd Annual Spring Fashion Showcase fundraiser April 2
Actor and film producer-director Tim Reid is best known for his role as Venus Flytrap on the 1970s television sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati,” and for his Petersburg-based film production company, New Millennium Studios, that he sold a few years ago.
Virginia Arts Festival to feature Kathleen Battle, Wynton Marsalis
Noted operatic soprano Kathleen Battle, a five-time Grammy Award winner, will be featured in “Kathleen Battle: Underground Railroad” as part of the Virginia Arts Festival.
VCU students’ work to be showcased at The Anderson
Want to see the kind of art that Virginia Commonwealth University students are producing?
Author to speak April 1 on ‘Liberation of Forgiveness’
Riley Keene Temple, a Washington telecommunications attorney and author of “Aunt Ester’s Children Redeemed,” will talk about the “Liberation of Forgiveness” and sign copies of his book during a discussion 2 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Hanes Ave.
Autism Awareness 3K Walk and Festival April 2
A local foundation dedicated to helping families dealing with autism and other special needs is joining forces with the Richmond Police Department to host the “Light It Up Blue” Autism Awareness 3K Walk and Festival on Sunday, April 2. The event, sponsored by the JP JumPers Foundation, will be held from 5 to 9 p.m.
Racial healing retreat set for April 7 & 8
“Healing Racism: Facing Fear/Facing Freedom” is the theme for Coming to the Table Richmond’s Mid-Atlantic retreat April 7 and 8 at Richmond Hill, 2209 E. Grace St.
VUU Lady Panthers win NCAA Division II quarterfinal game
Perhaps it was an omen. At one end of the Ohio Dominican University gymnasium in Columbus, Ohio, the word “PANTHERS” was written in huge block letters.
Wade exits VCU; Rhoades returns
Like cats, Virginia Commonwealth University basketball has a knack of landing on its feet. The Rams have a proven track record of overcoming awkward predicaments without breaking stride or losing winning momentum.
VCU falls in first round of NCAA Tournament
What goes up doesn’t necessarily have to come down — or so it seems with Virginia Commonwealth University hoops. The Rams are enjoying the rarified air above the crowd and show no inclination of descending. Despite its early exit from the NCAA Tournament with a 85-77 loss to St. Mary’s College of California on March 16 in Utah, VCU has established itself as a resilient, long-term winner.
MEAC winners bow out of NCAAs early
MEAC, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, plays basketball on the NCAA’s highest level, Division I, for at least two reasons:
Chesterfield’s Devin Robinson is standout on Florida NCAA team
If you missed seeing Chesterfield County native Devin Robinson playing basketball as a youngster, here’s your chance to observe the more grown up version.
Parson attempts legal maneuver to retake Richmond Christian Center
Fresh from campaigning for President Trump, Pastor Stephen A. Parson Sr. has launched a campaign to retake control of the Richmond Christian Center in South Side.
Chuck Berry, rock ‘n’ roll pioneer, dies
nd lyricists, creating raucous anthems that defined the genre’s sound and heartbeat, died Saturday, March 18, at his Missouri home. He was 90.
Personality: Janet M. Moses and Pocket
Spotlight on volunteer duo for SPCA’s Paws for Health
When she enters a room, her excitement and eagerness to entertain others overwhelms the space and the people in it.Usually dressed to impress, she greets longtime friends and strangers the same way — with a contagious enthusiasm for connection. Her personality is much larger than her 7-pound frame. Her joy in making friends easily attracts strangers.
Wilder in legal brawl with his former lawyers Goldman, Morrissey
Richmond residents now have a front row seat on a heavyweight legal fight between former Gov. L. Douglas Wilder and former Delegate Joe Morrissey.
City tax bills expected to be higher for 2017-18
Richmond residents should expect the city to send them bigger tax bills on vehicles and property this year — despite Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s claim that his proposed budget does not include a tax increase. A closer look at the budget plan shows that the mayor did not propose a hike in the tax rates the city charges on real estate or on cars, trucks and other personal property.
Calls mount for independent investigation of Russia’s ties to Trump administration
President Trump is finding its easy to play golf, but harder to get his way as the nation’s chief executive.
Gorsuch sidesteps tough questions in Supreme Court confirmation hearings
U.S. Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch said on Wednesday presidents must obey court orders and expressed uncertainty about language in the U.S. Constitution barring government officials from taking payments from a foreign country as Democrats grilled him on issues involving President Trump.
African delegates denied visas to Calif. trade conference
An African trade summit held last week in California had no African delegates after the United States denied them visas to enter the country.
Dying with debt: Advice from experts
You’re probably going to die with some debt. A majority of people do. In fact, 73 percent of Americans had outstanding debt when they died, according to December 2016 data reported by Credit.com.
$8.3M RPS mystery
Meeting next month between School Board, City Council and Mayor’s Office to see what happens next
An $8.3 million surplus in the Richmond Public Schools’ budget that was disclosed during a recent Richmond City Council meeting is nothing out of the ordinary, according to Richmond School Board Chair Dawn Page.
Monday, March 20
State of city schools
Superintendent Bedden says progress won’t happen overnight
When Richmond schools Superintendent Dana T. Bedden took the podium Tuesday night to offer his annual “State of the Schools” address, he was clear from the beginning that the picture would not be all roses.
Friday, March 17
Interventionists can help with handling addicts
Interventions can be the difference between life and death for a drug addict or an alcoholic. Not every person in need of rehab is going to initially jump at the chance to get clean and handle the issues that drove them to addiction. While some addicts or alcoholics have been so badly beaten and battered by their lifestyle that they grasp at the first opportunity to deal with their problems, others need some type of external help in order to seek help.
New GRTC bus routes avoid travel within public housing communities
After painstaking research, multiple workshops with Leaders Of The New South and interviews with city residents, it is apparent there will no longer be buses moving through the public housing neighborhoods in Richmond.
Congratulations to the Free Press
Re “Free Press in the Congressional Record,” March 2-4 edition: I wanted to drop you a note of congratulations on recently receiving a citation — now memorialized in the Congressional Record — from 4th District Congressman A. Donald McEachin commemorating the newspaper’s 25th anniversary.
Debt collection reform needed
When many consumers think of billion-dollar industries, banks and Wall Street often come to mind. Yet there is another industry in the same lucrative league that affects more than 70 million consumers each year — debt collection.
Attack on education
The effort to repeal and replace health care insurance is generating headlines, and the attempt to investigate our 45th president’s Russia connections is of high importance. The specious claim that former President Obama wiretapped Trump Tower, too, has generated interest, largely because it is unprecedented for one president to accuse another of a felony, and because 45 has absolutely no proof that President Obama has done any such thing.
Thirst for history, truth
Next week, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture will celebrate the six-month mark since its opening in September.
Trump’s alternative facts
We all should be familiar by now with the way President Trump views the world and the “alternative facts” he seeks to spread through his ministers of misinformation, Kellyanne Conway, Sean Spicer and Sarah Huckabee Sanders.
‘Date with Dad’ celebrates 10th anniversary this weekend
When Kai Banks began working for Girls for a Change through AmeriCorps five years ago, she said she was only one year into recovering from a difficult marriage.
Horror-satire film ‘Get Out’ makes box office history
Jordan Peele’s hugely popular debut horror-satire film “Get Out” has made box office history. It is the first film by an African-American writer-director to earn more than $100 million.
Southern Women’s Show this weekend at Richmond Raceway Complex
Free wine frappes, gift cards, a chance to hit the lottery, makeovers and free admission for teachers are some of the highlights of the 26th Annual Southern Women’s Show this weekend at the Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Ave.
Wellness Block Party to combine health info, fun
Music, health screenings and health information are the focus of a VCU Wellness Block Party that students from Virginia Commonwealth University’s medical campus will host this weekend at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School, 1000 Mosby St.
VUU Lady Panthers claim NCAA regional title, advance to Elite Eight
Virginia Union University women’s basketball Coach Ann-Marie Gilbert is making plans to return to familiar territory — the state of Ohio. The next stop for Coach Gilbert’s Lady Panthers is Columbus, Ohio, site of the NCAA Division II Elite Eight.
VCU takes on St. Mary’s College in NCAA first round in Salt Lake City
Virginia Commonwealth University’s legion of basketball fans has come to expect two things — continued excellence and lengthy journeys to cheer on their Rams in the NCAA Tournament. VCU has qualified for the NCAAs a noteworthy seven straight years. Only three schools have longer streaks.
‘6 for Six’
‘6 for Six’ Hampton’s Lady Pirates win sixth MEAC title
Hampton University’s women’s basketball squad has succeeded in meeting its first goal — a quest dubbed “6 for Six.”
NC Central defeats NSU to win MEAC
Norfolk State University’s up-and-down basketball season ended with a couple of downers. Finishing with a 17-17 record, the Spartans lost 67-59 to North Carolina Central University in the MEAC Tournament final last Saturday at the Norfolk Scope.
Monacan’s Megan Walker ends high school career as nation’s top player
In her final Monacan High School game, Megan Walker showed she was human — but more importantly that she was great.
Norcom High senior, Travis Ingram, is first player on 4 championship teams
Travis Ingram has enjoyed an unforgettable basketball career at I.C. Norcom High School of Portsmouth.
Phylicia Rashad to headline 10th Annual Transformation Expo
Actress Phylicia Rashad will headline Radio One’s 10th Annual Transformation Expo at noon Saturday, March 18, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.
Black Southern Baptists support Dr. Moore in denomination controversy
Embattled Southern Baptist ethicist Dr. Russell Moore, the public face of the nation’s largest Protestant group, has at least one group of vocal supporters — African-American Southern Baptist leaders.
Joni Sledge of hit musical group Sister Sledge remembered at 60
Joni Sledge, who with her sisters recorded the enduring dance anthem “We Are Family,” has died, the band’s representative said last Saturday.
Personality: Jill Bussey Harris
Spotlight on president of Richmond Chapter of The Links Inc.
Jill Bussey Harris has been building a vibrant dental practice in Richmond for 20 years, making history along the way and always finding time to give back to the community. But her 31-year relationship with the Richmond Chapter of The Links Inc., holds a special place in her heart. She has served as chapter president since 2013
CARE van service eyed by City Council due to complaints
GRTC is acknowledging that its CARE van operation is providing “unacceptable” service to the hundreds of elderly and disabled people who rely on the specialty door-to-door transportation to get to dialysis or to work, see doctors, go shopping or handle other business.
Candidates for 3rd District seat on School Board get public vetting
More than a dozen people turned out to comment on the candidates vying for the Richmond School Board’s vacant 3rd District seat following a speed round of public interviews conducted by the board. Only 11 of the 12 candidates were interviewed, with no mention of why only Norma Murdoch-Kitt was absent.
GRTC stands to get more money under mayor’s proposed budget
GRTC turns out to be one of the big winners in Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s proposed budget. The mayor is asking Richmond City Council to boost the total GRTC subsidy by about $1.65 million from the current level in a bid to keep the transit company solvent as it prepares for a major overhaul of its routes and to subsidize the new GRTC Pulse or Bus Rapid Transit service.
Va. redistricting cases winding through state, federal courts
In a slap at Virginia’s Republican-led majority in the General Assembly, the U.S. Supreme Court has directed a lower federal court to reassess whether lawmakers unlawfully tried to dilute the clout of African-American voters when it drew a series of state legislative districts six years ago.
Chesterfield Historical Society offering beginner genealogy class
The Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia is offering a six-week beginner genealogy class on Saturdays starting April 1.
Sessions seeks to revive federal anti-crime program that targeted African-Americans
New U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions vowed to revive 1990s law-and-order strategies that pumped up the nation’s prison population to the highest level in the world to fight the recent surge in urban violence.
Report forecasts millions would lose health insurance under Trumpcare
Fears that the Republican plan to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, would wipe out health insurance for millions of mostly low-income people appear to be highly accurate.
Trump’s leaked 2005 taxes show $153M in earnings
President Trump earned $153 million and paid $36.5 million in income taxes in 2005, paying a roughly 25 percent effective tax rate thanks to a tax he has since sought to eliminate, according to newly disclosed tax documents.
Graduation rate for African-American players on NCAA Tournament teams lower than white counterparts
The graduation rate of African-American men’s basketball players from teams participating in the NCAA Tournament is 74 percent compared with 93 percent for white players.
Harvard Law Review elects first black woman president
Special to Trice Edney News Wire from Afro American Newspapers ImeIme Umana, one of four daughters born to Nigerian immigrants, was elected as the 131st president of the Harvard Law Review out of 12 candidates, eight of whom were minorities and eight of whom were women.
No clues yet on Trump’s Africa policy
If President Trump has an Africa policy in the works, he’s keeping the details close to his chest. So far, there is neither an assistant secretary of state for Africa nor an ambassador. The incumbent secretary, Linda Thomas Greenfield, retired on Friday, March 10. Peter Pham, vice president and Africa director of the Atlantic Council in Washington, reportedly is seeking a position.
U.S. Black Chambers launches ‘Buy-Black, Bank-Black’ initiative
It is the No.1 reason that black-owned businesses fail: Not enough money and not enough places to get it.
Former Old Dominion Bar Association president faces disciplinary hearing
By all accounts, Vinceretta Taylor Chiles has long been regarded as having a stellar legal career in and out of court.
Wilder School town hall March 22
A community conversation about the current political climate, leadership and how people can get involved will be the central topic of a town hall sponsored by Virginia Commonwealth University’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.
VCU professor files suit alleging ‘pattern and practice’ of sexual harassment by colleague
Virginia Commonwealth University is being accused of turning a blind eye for decades to complaints of sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation involving a top clinical psychologist in its medical school, Dr. Jeffrey S. Kreutzer.
UR dean, former Va. first lady named to state Board of Education
Dr. Jamelle S. Wilson, dean of the University of Richmond School of Professional and Continuing Studies, and Anne Holton, former state secretary of education, were recently appointed by Gov. Terry McAuliffe to the Virginia Board of Education.
Saturday, March 11
Crusade for the truth
Re Editorial page column, “Black newspapers needed more than ever,” Feb. 23-25 edition: Your recently published piece in the Free Press by Oscar H. Blayton was timely and spot on. What’s often missing today is a mechanism to put pieces together in a way for people to see and understand the situation without obfuscation by others.
Public should defend progress on climate change
The current state of the environment is a pressing concern for Richmond. In 2015, we were No. 1 in ragweed, pollen and ozone pollution, and currently are No. 2 in the country for asthma count.
Free Press ‘jumped to conclusion’
Re Editorial, “Mis-education,” March 2-4 edition:
‘I’m confused!’
I love zodiac and horoscope information because it tells you a lot about a person. President Donald Trump is a Gemini, the sign of the twins.
Charter schools: Don’t believe hype
Last week, Antione Green, former president of the Richmond Crusade for Voters, shared his support of and endorsement for more charter schools in Virginia. I wish to share that any support for charter schools should be tempered and all endorsements should be accompanied with long-term specifics regarding accountability and oversight.
For-profit prisons trample basic human rights
Tuesday, March 7, marked the 52nd anniversary of Bloody Sunday, the historic march and shocking police riot in Selma, Ala., that helped build public support for passage of the federal Voting Rights Act.
‘Kremlingate’
President Trump proved once again that he suffers from delusions. This time, he believes that former President Obama wiretapped Trump Tower during the presidential campaign.
Grave parity
We were heartened by Free Press staff writer Jeremy M. Lazarus’ front page report published in the Feb. 23-25 edition on the Virginia General Assembly approving funds to maintain gravesites in East End and Evergreen cemeteries.
Dollars and sense
Mayor Levar M. Stoney and the Richmond City Council may find themselves trying to make bricks without straw this year.
Friday, March 10
Obamas sign $65M book deal
Barack and Michelle Obama have book deals. The former president and first lady have signed with Penguin Random House, the publisher announced last week.
Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, Johnny Gill in Richmond April 1
R&B artist Charlie Wilson, the lead vocalist behind the legendary R&B group The Gap Band, will perform 7 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at the Richmond Coliseum for his “In It to Win It” Tour. The All White Attire Concert, promoted by Richmond’s Hosea Fox, also features artists Fantasia and Johnny Gill.
Pine Camp exhibits honor Women’s History Month
The expression of beauty through silhouette figures and models representing the merge of beauty, fashion and lifestyle will be the subjects explored in art exhibits at Pine Camp Arts and Community Center in honor of Women’s History Month.
Faith leaders, politicians: New immigration order still anti-Muslim
Federal judges may find President Trump’s new executive order on immigration more acceptable than the last. But many religious groups and faith leaders see no meaningful difference in the new measure, which President Trump signed privately last Monday.
Delegate McQuinn to lead cleanup Saturday at historic cemeteries
Fresh from winning state funding to support two historic African-American cemeteries, Delegate Delores L. McQuinn will lead a cleanup of the Evergreen and East End cemeteries this weekend. She is seeking 500 volunteers to assist with removing vines, overgrown grass, trees and weeds from the gravesites from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 11.
Morgan State University Choir to perform March 21 at Fifth Baptist Church
The Morgan State University Choir will perform at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, at Fifth Baptist Church, 1415 W. Cary St.
VCU ready to take it to the final at A-10
Virginia Commonwealth University’s legion of basketball fans have learned to pack an extra change of clothes when traveling to conference tournaments. The Rams excel at extending such events to the max.
VUU teams head to NCAA regional tourney
The Virginia Union University men’s and women’s basketball teams are heading to the NCAA, but both may be a bit rusty for the occasion.
MEAC Tournament this weekend in Norfolk
If Hampton University is to “three-peat” as MEAC basketball champion this weekend, much will depend on Jermaine Marrow.
Wythe, Marshall remain positive despite losses at state tourney
Both George Wythe and John Marshall High schools are looking forward to continued basketball excellence next season — and the next, and the next. Two freshmen who made their mark this winter figure to provide the Bulldogs and Justices with long-term success.
Armstrong athletes excel at state track and field competition
If “Happy” artist Pharrell Williams were to sing of Armstrong High School, it might be titled “Hoppy.”
Frank Mason III of Petersburg is semifinalist for coveted Naismith Award
The University of Kansas’ Frank Mason III is flirting with college basketball’s highest individual honor — and his fans can have a voice in the final decision. Mason, who graduated from Petersburg High School in 2012, is one of 10 semifinalists for the coveted James A. Naismith Trophy awarded to college basketball’s most outstanding player. Four finalists will be announced Sunday, March 19.
Thomas W. Kenney, 93, dies; former owner of Spring Lake course
Thomas Waymond Kenney worked as a meat cutter and janitor most of his life, but ended up a millionaire through his love of golf.
Personality: Emilie G. Webb
Spotlight on nonprofit Assisting Families of Inmates Silent Auction chair
Every week, dozens of individuals and families with incarcerated loved ones benefit from Emilie Webb’s decision to pursue a career in nursing instead of art.
Walker papers return home
The Maggie Walker papers have been returned to the Stallings family, ending their seven-year sojourn at the College of William & Mary and forestalling a potential conflict.
Students hope to draw global link on Pocahontas history trip
Four hundred years after the death of Pocahontas, her life will be commemorated with a program designed to honor her legacy, beginning with 14 Richmonders traveling to St. George’s Church in Gravesend, England, where she died in March 1617.
Warren Beatty to award Nutzys at The Diamond
The envelope please … In reaction to the recent Academy Award mix-up when the wrong Best Picture winner was announced, the Richmond Flying Squirrels are planning some light-hearted fun.
Sen. Kaine’s son arrested during protest at Trump rally
The youngest son of U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia was one of six people arrested while protesting at rally of President Trump’s supporters last weekend at the Minnesota Capitol.
Dueling rallies
At left, a protester who identified herself as Gabriela Salong leads a chant during last Saturday’s rally at the Bell Tower in Capitol Square organized by ICE Out of RVA, a coalition of Latinos,
12 candidates to be interviewed for 3rd District School Board seat
Twelve people will be interviewed next week as the Richmond School Board moves to fill the vacant 3rd District seat.
Despite efforts, bank branch in Highland Park to close March 21
Bank of America is not backing down on its decision to close its Highland Park branch on Tuesday, March 21, according to Richmond City Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson.
‘Trumpcare’ health plan would strip insurance from millions
Impressed by President Trump’s campaign promises to make health care more affordable, Mavis Reivis crossed her fingers and voted for him.
Stoney offers $681M budget
Spending plan raises trash fee, utility rates but avoids tax hike
Richmond Public Schools teachers and city police officers and firefighters would gain pay raises, but most city employees would have to make do with their current wages.
VUU names Dr. Corey Walker to lead its School of Theology
Corey D.B. Walker, a scholar, author and college dean, will return to Virginia Union University to lead the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, where he once studied for the ministry.
City Council approves funds for new police property center
The cramped and decaying storage area in Downtown where the Richmond Police Department holds guns, drugs and other evidence for court cases is finally on its way to being replaced.
Richmond Ambulance Authority earns sixth ACE award
The Richmond Ambulance Authority has proven once again just how well it performs for residents. The RAA has become the first U.S. ambulance service to be named six times as an Accredited Center for Excellence for its dispatch services.
Saturday, March 4
Nat Turner links black, white George Wythe High alumni
Nat Turner, who led one of the bloodiest rebellions of enslaved people in history, has connected the members of the George Wythe High School Class of 1974 in a unique way.
Sen. Tim Kaine talks refugee crisis with Pope Francis
While most congressional lawmakers headed home during last week’s break, U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine of Richmond responded to a higher calling.
‘People will not allow attacks on democracy to go unopposed’
As the final days of this year’s Black History Month coincide with the adjournment of Virginia’s 2017 General Assembly session, I see glimmers of hope for a bright future in the Commonwealth.
Lack of equality even in death
Re “Righting grave wrongs: Virginia General Assembly approves funds for 2 area historic African-American cemeteries; state has been paying for upkeep of Confederate graves for 100 years,” Feb. 23-25 edition:
Charter schools an alternative
The Virginia General Assembly has taken an important step. For the first time, it has approved bills to expand public charter schools that will address the poor performance predominantly of students from low-income households. The issue has now landed on the desk of Gov. Terry McAuliffe, and he should sign the bill.
Finding the future in the past
This is a proud moment in Virginia history. It is a rare occasion when a state legislature passes two bills to propel and preserve the history of African-Americans. That is what the General Assembly has done.
Mis-education
Don’t let President Trump fool you. Sure, he met with presidents of historically black colleges and universities earlier this week. But what really is the result of the meeting?
Icon Angela Y. Davis unleashes her thoughts on Trump, Clinton and future
The election of Donald Trump as the nation’s 45th president “was the future we really dreaded,” said scholar and activist Angela Y. Davis.
Former NASA ‘hidden figure’ advises students to chart own course
Christine Darden was a student at Hampton University when she learned to chart her own path. She and her classmates would visit the school’s cafeteria together, and she decided that she needed to learn to go on her own.
‘Moonlight’ wins Best Picture despite major flub at 89th Academy Awards ceremony
And the Oscar for Best Picture goes to … “La La Land.
Presentation on African-American women trailblazers Saturday at Main Library Downtown
Historian Elvatrice Belsches will talk about the lives of four trailblazing African-American women 1 p.m. Saturday, March 4, in the auditorium of the Richmond Public Library’s Main Branch, 101 E. Franklin St. in Downtown.
Rihanna named Harvard University Humanitarian of the Year
Rihanna has been named the 2017 Harvard University Humanitarian of the Year. The Grammy Award-winning singer received the Harvard Foundation’s Peter J. Gomes Humanitarian Award at a ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 28.
VUU returns from CIAA in trail of tears
Virginia Union University rode a wave of well-earned optimism to the CIAA Basketball Tournament in Charlotte, N.C. Its return to Richmond was amid a trail of tears.
Despite loss, Lady Panthers still favored to make NCAA Atlantic Region field
Virginia Union University’s women’s basketball team hit a speed bump but probably not a dead end at the CIAA Tournament in Charlotte, N.C.
VCU ready for 7th consecutive bid to NCAAs
Barring an unlikely late season collapse, the Virginia Commonwealth University Rams are primed for a seventh straight trip to the NCAA playoffs.
George Wythe, John Marshall will enjoy hometown advantage in state tournament
Richmond’s George Wythe and John Marshall high schools will need no GPS to guide them to the State 3A basketball tournament.
Border agents ask Muhammad Ali’s son: Are you Muslim?
Muhammad Ali’s son, who bears the boxing great’s name, was detained by immigration officials at a Florida airport and questioned about his ancestry and religion in what amounted to unconstitutional profiling, a family friend said last week. Returning from a Black History Month event in Jamaica, Muhammad Ali Jr. and his mother, Khalilah Camacho Ali, were pulled aside and separated from each other on Feb. 7 at the immigration checkpoint at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, said Chris Mancini, a family friend and attorney.
Pentecostal Bishop Robert L. Tapper, 96, dies
Pentecostal Bishop Robert Lancelot Tapper developed churches in Richmond and six other Virginia communities during a ministry career that spanned 65 years.
Personality: Amy E. Robins
Spotlight on co-founder, volunteer coordinator of RVA Clean Sweep
Keeping Richmond’s neighborhoods clean and litter free is about more than just aesthetics for Amy Elisabeth Robins. “If you live in a community where residents and children are walking through trash, that has a negative impact on quality of life,” she says.
Owners seek return of Maggie Walker papers
Eight years ago, curious students from the College of William & Mary stumbled across a treasure trove of documents hidden in the attic of a vacant building in Gilpin Court.
City observes Black Restaurant Week March 6-12
Twenty area restaurants will be the focus next week during a promotion called Richmond Black Restaurant Week. Between Monday, March 6, and Sunday, March 12, each of the black-owned and operated restaurants will offer special, fixed-price meals for lunch and dinner in a bid to attract new customers and to showcase their offerings.
Black History Museum executive director resigns; interim head named
When Tasha Chambers took on the role of executive director of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia in Richmond’s Jackson Ward, the position had been vacant for eight months.
Va. Legislative Black Caucus touts wins in 2017 General Assembly session
Members of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus said they’re proud of what they managed to accomplish in the 2017 General Assembly session, despite being a small contingent of Democrats within a Republican-controlled legislature. “We have worked together to support and vote for legislation that will make a difference in people’s lives,” said caucus Chair Roslyn C. Tyler of Sussex.
Friday, March 3
Controversies rattle HBCU presidents’ meetings with Trump, White House officials
President Trump made historic and symbolic embraces of the nation’s historically black colleges and universities this week, welcoming university chiefs to the White House and issuing an executive order continuing the White House Initiative on HBCUs and moving its office to the White House to facilitate more direct contact with Trump senior staff.
Trump lays out tough agenda in address before Congress
Heralding a “new chapter of American greatness,” President Trump issued a broad call for America first, investing in the nation’s infrastructure, slashing taxes and revamping health insurance in his first address to Congress.
Power of one / Salon owner runs free food bank in her North Side shop
16-year-old has state building named in her honor
Nearly 66 years after Barbara Johns, a 16-year-old student at Robert Russa Moton High School in Farmville, led hundreds of her classmates on a walkout to protest substandard conditions in her segregated school that were separate but not equal, her sister tearfully thanked Gov. Terry McAuliffe for naming a newly renovated state building in Downtown in Ms. Johns’ honor.
