Friday, February 22
Judges continuing family tradition on local courts
Judge Randall G. Johnson Jr. is going to become a circuit court judge like his late father. And Brice E. Lambert also is headed to the bench where he will continue a family tradition of judicial service.
Duncan chosen to lead RRHA
The board of the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority on Wednesday tapped Damon E. Duncan as the new chief executive officer as the agency continues to struggle to keep the heat on in a small portion of its nearly 4,000 public housing units.
City’s financial forecast projects deficits — even without a new Coliseum
Prospects that Mayor Levar M. Stoney will advance his grand plan to replace the now closed Richmond Coliseum to City Council appear to be dimming. Since November, the plan has remained in limbo, and City Hall remains mum on the plan’s future.
Va. NAACP facing takeover by national?
Is the national NAACP about to take control of the Virginia State Conference of the civil rights group based on member complaints? So far, the national office has declined to comment on any action concerning the Virginia NAACP that was authorized at the Feb. 16 national board meeting in New York.
Superintendent Jason Kamras reviews his first year on job
When Jason Kamras placed his hand on his late grandfather’s Torah and was sworn in as Richmond’s new public schools superintendent on Feb. 1, 2018, he was not totally aware of the depth of challenges ahead of him.
Case closed on Richmond 34
Criminal records from the Feb. 22, 1960, arrests of 34 VUU students protesting racial segregation at a Downtown department store will be expunged Friday, 59 years later
The students from Virginia Union University walked enthusiastically with pride, determination, respect and self confidence. Block by block down Lombardy Street to Broad Street they walked — young men dressed in shirts and ties and young ladies wearing dresses and heels.
No holiday for justice as protesters hold March of Reckoning
Banks and schools may have been closed Monday, but around 50 political activists descended on Bank Street and went to work protesting against Gov. Ralph S. Northam and other elected officials.
Gore, Barber decry environmental racism in Va.
Former Vice President Al Gore urged residents of a historic African-American community in Buckingham County on Tuesday to continue their fight against a plan to build a natural gas pipeline compressor station in their community.
‘We all have something bad we have done’
I’d like to put my 2 cents worth in about the people put in office and in charge of running Virginia.
Background checks for elected officials
Where are we as Virginians and Americans that we can strip a man of his reputation, career, family and livelihood based on an accusation that has not been proven in a court of law?
Forgive and hold Gov. Northam accountable
In the current political challenges facing our Commonwealth, I was taken aback by comments and ideologies espoused by the Rev. Al Sharpton during a gathering at Virginia Union University. I vehemently disagree with Rev. Sharpton’s observations on forgiveness in this matter of Gov. Ralph S. Northam’s inappropriate actions of appearing in blackface.
Trump’s wall no national emergency
President Trump’s decision to declare a national emergency in order to fund his border wall triggers a crisis for our Constitution and our democracy. This is no longer about the shameless lies, exaggerations and slanders that the president has trotted out to justify his silly campaign promise to build a wall that he promised Mexico would pay for.
Blackface: An insulting mask of privilege
As a black student in overwhelmingly white schools in Louisiana, I faced my share of racial insults and slights. But one of the more memorable incidents was not even a deliberate slight directed at me. The offenders probably didn’t even think of me. But when a group of my classmates contemptuously affected exaggerated accents mocking black people as part of a school production, I walked out.
Today’s last word from Richard Wright
We thank Richmond Free Press reader Rosalyn A. Brackett for sharing the words of author Richard Wright published in his 1945 memoir, “Black Boy.”
Happy anniversary, Mr. Kamras
The honeymoon is over for Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras.
New online magazine to focus on people making contributions
B.K. Fulton, a creative media entrepreneur in Richmond, has launched an online entertainment and lifestyle magazine.
20 feature films vying for Africa’s ‘Golden Globes’
Twenty feature-length films by African filmmakers will compete for the “Yennanga” Gold Standard prize at the Pan-African Film and Television Festival held every other year in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Jussie Smollett attack staged?
Questions continue to swirl around “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett this week after reports surfaced Wednesday that Chicago Police classified Mr. Smollett as a suspect in a criminal investigation for allegedly filing a false report.
Ruth E. Carter poised for Oscar win Sunday
It’s a big week for Ruth E. Carter, who on Sunday could become the first African-American to win an Academy Award for costume design for her Afro-futuristic wardrobes in “Black Panther.”
NBA’s Harden ranks right up there with Wilt
James Harden is turning into a modern day Wilt Chamberlain on the basketball court. The Houston Rockets guard is running away with the NBA’s individual scoring championship, much like Chamberlain did more than a half century ago.
Nic Thomas is on fire for NSU
In his inaugural basketball season at Norfolk State University, Nic Thomas seemed content puttering along in the no-passing lane.
‘Bench Bunch’ keeps VCU on top in A-10
Virginia Commonwealth University’s leading basketball scorer doesn’t have a real name, just a nickname. Meet the “Bench Bunch.”
CIAA Tournament starts Feb. 25
Just two days after the CIAA’s regular basketball season ends, the “second season” will begin. The regular season ends Feb. 23, setting the stage for both men’s and women’s tournaments Feb. 25 to March 2 in Charlotte, N.C. A weeklong series of musical, educational and cultural events surround the tournament.
Jaaber looking to spring into Division I competition, boosting the family legacy
Of Chesterfield County’s 11 comprehensive public high schools, Carver College and Career Academy is by far the newest — it’s now in its fourth year — and the smallest with 254 students.
Powerhouse Elexis ‘Lexi’ Edwards a force on national gymnastics scene
When all was well, an abundance of physical power helped Elexis “Lexi” Edwards climb to the top peg of her sport. Unwavering willpower kept her from losing her grip when hard times struck.
Clifton D. Townes, retired city recreation district superintendent, dies at 79
Clifton David Townes helped create vibrant sports and educational programs for city youths during a storied career with the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities.
Personality: Shelia S. Fitzgerald
Spotlight on board president of Big Brothers Big Sisters
Shelia Scott Fitzgerald is president of the board of directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters, which serves Greater Richmond, the Tri-Cities, the Peninsula and Hampton Roads. The Richmond native became involved with BBBS nine years ago because its mission resonated with her.
National NAACP board suspends Henrico Branch president for 2 years
Frank J. Thornton, former president of the Henrico Branch NAACP, has had his membership in the civil rights group suspended for two years. The national NAACP imposed the suspension on Feb. 16 during its quarterly board meeting in New York.
Authority of Virginia State Bar to discipline lawyers challenged
Veteran Richmond area attorney Rhetta M. Daniel is challenging the authority of the Virginia State Bar to consider misconduct charges against lawyers in a filing that, if upheld, could undermine decisions in hundreds of previous cases.
School Board defers vote on cutting 49 jobs
The Richmond School Board postponed voting Tuesday night on Superintendent Jason Kamras’ proposed $300 million operating budget after the board became mired in confusion and chaos.
Black history program Feb. 28 at MLK Middle School
Students and staff of Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School will host a public Black History Month program 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, it has been announced.
VCU to host panel on blackface and racism Feb. 25
Blackface and racism will be the focus of a panel discussion at Virginia Commonwealth University from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 25, it has been announced.
‘March on the Mansion’ slated for Saturday at Capitol
Five state and national groups will host a public rally and march this weekend to continue to press Gov. Ralph S. Northam to resign in the wake of his blackface scandal.
SNAP benefits to be available March 1
All food stamp recipients in Richmond and across the state will receive March benefits on March 1, the state Department of Social Services has announced.
Who should investigate allegations against Fairfax?
Lt. Gov. Justin E. Fairfax continues to preside over the state Senate despite the continuing ferment over decades-old sexual assault claims two women have publicly leveled against him.
Friday, February 15
Black community divided over whether Northam should resign
To condemn or to forgive? The Rev. Al Sharpton took center stage on the condemnation front Feb. 7 as he took part in a Virginia Union University program titled “Reflections on Faith, Community and Racial Reconciliation in the Commonwealth.”
Panthers pounce all over Trojans
The rafters of Virginia Union University’s historic Barco-Stevens Hall are adorned with retired jerseys.
Richmond Branch NAACP to honor 3 at luncheon Feb. 23
The Richmond Branch NAACP is holding its Founders and Membership Recognition Luncheon noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, at The GRACE Center, 1302 Victor St. in Highland Park.
Joe Morrissey exploring run against Sen. Dance
Joseph D. “Joe” Morrissey is preparing to make a political comeback.
Rapper Kurtis Blow responds
Rapper Kurtis Blow said he was blown away when Virginia Attorney General Mark R. Herring admitted last week that he wore blackface to dress up as the revered rap legend in 1980.
City Council and street names
One Richmond group is calling on City Council to change the names of streets and bridges that are named for slaveholders and those who fought to keep African-Americans enslaved.
Rev. Franklin, 47, dies after preaching sermon
The Rev. Charles M. Franklin Jr. preached a sermon, finished serving communion and had gone into his office at Ray of Hope Baptist Church in Northeast Baltimore on Sunday, Feb. 10, when he lapsed into a seizure.
Personality: Kenneth M. Dye
Spotlight on board chairman of GRASP Inc.
For many students from low-income families, a college education is out of reach. GRASP, the Richmond-based Great Aspirations Scholarship Program Inc., may be the answer.
Why impeachment for Fairfax?
When the accusations of sexual assault were made against Lt. Gov. Justin E. Fairfax by two different women, he stated without equivocation that the sexual liaisons were consensual. At this point, Lt. Gov. Fairfax must be given the presumption of innocence, which is the cornerstone of American jurisprudence.
Arthur Ashe Blvd.
We applaud the Richmond City Council for voting earlier this week to rename the Boulevard in honor of Richmond native and tennis great Arthur Ashe Jr.
Northam, Fairfax and next steps
The controversy swamping Virginia’s top three executives continues, with Gov. Ralph S. Northam refusing to resign in the wake of his 1984 medical school yearbook photos and blackface scandal; Lt. Gov. Justin E. Fairfax standing accused by a second woman of sexual assault in 2000 while the two were students at Duke University; and Attorney General Mark R. Herring laying low after admitting that he, too, wore blackface to a party in 1980 as a 19-year-old student at the University of Virginia.
Rap scores Grammy breakthrough while girl power rules awards show
“This is America,” Childish Gambino’s searing indictment of police brutality and racism, scored a breakthrough for rap on Sunday at the Grammy Awards by winning both record and song of the year and becoming the first hip-hop track to win either of the top Grammy categories in 61 years.
7 honored in 2019 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History program
Seven outstanding African-American leaders were celebrated during the seventh annual “Strong Men & Women in Virginia History” awards program Feb. 7 at a Downtown hotel.
Love Stories
The Free Press proudly presents its annual Valentine’s Day feature sharing the Love Stories of four Richmond area couples.
Baseball great Frank Robinson dies at 83
The world of baseball has lost a legend. The great Frank Robinson died Thursday, Feb. 7, in Los Angeles following a lengthy illness at age 83.
4 contenders for VUU QB post next season
Coach Parker contends he has four solid candidates to replace departing senior Darius Taylor as the Panthers’ signal caller.
Council approves new housing, shelter policies
Overshadowed by the debate over renaming the Boulevard, Richmond City Council Monday night unanimously approved policy changes that will impact affordable housing and the use of city property for cold weather shelters.
City to get new children’s hospital
Construction is set to start in a few months on a $350 million, 92-bed hospital for children on the medical campus of Virginia Commonwealth University.
Gov. Northam apology tour
Gov. Ralph S. Northam will attend a Virginia Union University chapel service on “Faith, Identity and Social Justice” next week as part of his “apology tour in the aftermath of his blackface photo controversy,” university officials announced.
‘Unmasking Blackface’ discussion Feb.18 at Black History Museum
“Unmasking Blackface” will be the topic of a community conversation 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 18, at the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, 122 W. Leigh St.
Richmonders react
Virginians continue to witness the chaos and confusion consuming Virginia’s top executives.
More information emerges on Fairfax’s second accuser
Information about Meredith Watson, who alleged Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax raped her in college almost 20 years ago, has surfaced in multiple reliable media reports.
Virginia expresses ‘profound regret’ for history of lynchings
Outlining a “dark and shameful chapter of American history,” state legislators unanimously passed resolutions to “acknowledge with profound regret the existence and acceptance of lynching” in Virginia, where more than 80 people — mostly African-American men — were killed by mobs in the decades after the Civil War.
RRHA poised to name Duncan as new CEO
Damon E. Duncan, a public and affordable housing veteran with 26 years of experience, is to be named the next chief executive officer of the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority, the Free Press has learned.
Catholic dioceses release list of 58 clergy accused of sexually abusing children
Virginia’s two Roman Catholic dioceses on Wednesday published lists of 58 priests credibly accused of sexually abusing minors, joining other dioceses around the country in answering calls to make public the names of abusive clergy.
Thursday, February 14
A boulevard named Arthur Ashe
City Council approves street to honor Richmond legend
From now on, it will be Arthur Ashe Boulevard.
Friday, February 8
Beware of predatory tax refund loans, advances
Across the country, advertising — particularly on urban radio — tempts listeners with easy ways to get a loan against anticipated tax refunds. But just like other predatory lending products, what is advertised is not quite what consumers receive. Convenient tax-related loans almost always come with a price that takes a big bite out of consumers’ money.
Fairfax battles sexual assault allegation
Lt. Gov. Justin E. Fairfax, a 39-year-old rising star in the state Democratic Party, is battling to save his political career after being hit with a shocking allegation of sexual assault that dates back 15 years.
Statement of Dr. Vanessa Tyson
Released Wednesday, Feb. 6
On the night of Friday, February 1, 2019, I read multiple news accounts indicating that Virginia Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax would likely be elevated to Governor as an immediate result of a scandal involving Governor Ralph Northam.
Reactions to Lt. Gov. Fairfax
“The Virginia Legislative Black Caucus takes all allegations of sexual assault or misconduct with the utmost seriousness. Given the recent allegations regarding Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, the VLBC will continue to assess this developing situation as more details become available.”
Mayor Stoney highlights new eviction prevention program
Good things are happening in Richmond, Mayor Levar M. Stoney said as he used his State of the City speech last week to tout the city’s progress during his first two years.
Kamras delivers first State of the Schools address
Richmond Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras delivered his first State of the Schools address Tuesday night to a packed house of more than 300 people at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School.
What next?
Virginians shaken as the top 3 officials are embroiled in controversy
In the suddenly topsy-turvy world of Virginia politics, one fact is certain: Ralph S. Northam is still Virginia’s governor. He also has no immediate plans to resign, despite the uproar and the torrent of calls for him to quit the office some believe he is no longer fit to hold.
STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL MARK R. HERRING
"The very bright light that is shining on Virginia right now is sparking a painful but, I think we all hope, important conversation. The stakes are high, and our spirits are low.
EVMS dean, who shut down yearbook in 2013, launches investigation into racist photos
As Gov. Ralph S. Northam weighed his political future after a racist photo on his 1984 medical school yearbook page surfaced last week, Eastern Virginia Medical School officials held a press conference Tuesday in Norfolk to address the school’s investigation surrounding that photo and others that have since been brought to light.
‘It’s a real tragedy’
Virginia political icon Dr. William Ferguson Reid reacts
Dr. William Ferguson Reid Sr. may have stepped down from the ranks of Virginia’s political leaders, but the retired surgeon and pioneer in modern Virginia politics has his attention glued to the controversies surrounding the state’s governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general.
What’s the path forward?
The Rev. Al Sharpton, founder of the National Action Network, is hosting a discussion on race and reconciliation at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, at the Allix B. James Chapel in Coburn Hall on Virginia Union University’s campus, 1500 N. Lombardy St.
Possible funding increase for city schools?
Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s administration is hinting that it might propose a $5 million increase in support for Richmond Public Schools’ operations in the new 2020 budget it will present next month to Richmond City Council.
Richmond School Board starts rezoning process
After months of debate, Richmond Public Schools is revisiting rezoning. But this time, there is a plan and a timeline in place.
Public hearing, vote Feb. 11 on renaming Boulevard for Arthur Ashe
Will the third time be the charm? For the third time since 1993, Richmond City Council is poised to again debate renaming the Boulevard for the late Richmond-born tennis star and humanitarian Arthur Ashe Jr. at its next meeting on Monday, Feb. 11.
Richmond Police exploring options to build new stable
The Richmond Police Department is “going to explore other options” to try to get a new horse stable for the Mounted Unit, department spokesman Gene Lepley stated.
RRHA still dealing with heating problems; assistance available
At least seven public housing units completely lost heat last week as a result of boiler problems, the Richmond Redevelopment and Authority reported Monday.
Personality: Martha E. Hancock-Carter
Spotlight on president of Richmond Section of the National Council of Negro Women Inc.
Martha E. Hancock-Carter, president of the Richmond Section of the National Council of Negro Women Inc., is dedicated to preserving the vision and legacy of the national organization’s late founder, Mary McLeod Bethune.
Community organizer and strategist Lillie A. Estes succumbs at 59
Lillie Ann Estes set the standard for community organizing in Richmond.
Grammy winner James Ingram dies at 66
Grammy-winning singer-songwriter James Ingram, who launched multiple hits on the R&B and pop charts and earned two Oscar nominations for his songwriting, died Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2018, at his Los Angeles home from brain cancer. He was 66.
‘Y&R’ actor Kristoff St. John dies at 52
Kristoff St. John, who played the struggling alcoholic and ladies’ man Neil Winters for 27 years on “The Young and the Restless,” has died. He was 52.
John D. Williams, 90, longtime teacher and coach at Armstrong High School
John Davis “John D.” Williams, a former teacher, coach and athletic director at Armstrong High School, has died.
Pope Francis publicly acknowledges clergy’s sexual abuse of nuns
Pope Francis publicly acknowledged the scandal of priests and bishops sexually abusing nuns and vowed to do more to fight the problem, the latest sign that there is no end in sight to the Catholic Church’s abuse crisis — and that it now has a reckoning from the #MeToo movement.
Blue chip freshman Deshawn Goodwyn helping raise George Wythe’s stock
When a special freshman arrives at Richmond’s George Wythe High School, basketball Coach Willard Coker isn’t shy about elevating him to the varsity — even into the starting lineup.
VUU to take on VSU Saturday at Barco-Stevens Hall
Virginia Union University suffered a 88-73 basketball knockout on Jan. 19 in its last meeting with Virginia State University.
Bennett College meets fundraising goal
Bennett College, a historically black all-women’s college in North Carolina that was facing loss of accreditation and possible closure because of financial problems, has exceeded its $5 million fundraising goal.
Gilmore rolls back to Richmond to boost VCU
Everything about Michael Gilmore is big — his height (6-foot-10), his wingspan (7-foot) and his shooting range (well beyond the 3-point arc). His basketball journey has been long, too.
Dynasty continues with Patriots’ 6th Super Bowl crown
No, the New England Patriots’ reign doesn’t really date to the Boston Tea Party, Paul Revere’s Ride and the American Revolution. But it may seem like it to their weary opponents.
Exclusive Blacklist Wine and Jazz Weekend starts Feb. 7
The Exclusive Blacklist Wine and Jazz Weekend returns for a four-day celebration of African-Americans in winemaking.
Richmond Association of Black Social Workers host annual Black Family Ritual Feb. 9
The Richmond Association of Black Social Workers is hosting Umoja Karamu, its annual Black Family Ritual from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, at Six Points Innovation Center, 3001 Meadowbridge Road in Highland Park.
Smollett back performing; talks about attack
“Empire” actor Jussie Smollett was blunt, emotional and defiantly determined last Saturday night at a Southern California concert some urged him not to play, telling the crowd before singing a note that he had to go on with the show because he couldn’t let his attackers win.
Gates produces 4-hour PBS documentary on Reconstruction
Historian Henry Louis “Skip” Gates can trace the roots of his upcoming PBS documentary about Reconstruction to his days in school, when he would hear about the end of slavery during the Civil War, then virtually nothing about race relations until the Civil Rights Movement in the middle of the 20th century.
Finding one’s self abroad
Born in Norfolk, and raised by a single mother, I felt a special responsibility to go to college but, at first, I failed at it — quite literally. But I turned my life around and see a pathway to success. Studying in London as a Frederick Douglass Global Fellow was instrumental in healing my wounds and making me whole again.
Surprised, no. Sickened, yes.
Is it white privilege, white hubris or just plain arrogance that keeps Gov. Ralph S. Northam in office well after most reasonable Virginians — and people across the nation — believe it is time for him to exit?
Who really won the Super Bowl?
As far as I’m concerned, neither of the teams on the field won the Super Bowl. Something wonderful happened along the way, and we had a consciousness-raising event.
Lifting workers with wages
Nowhere in the country can a full-time worker earning the federal or state minimum wage afford a two-bedroom apartment at fair market rent. One in nine U.S. workers are paid wages that can leave them in poverty, even when working full time.
Free Press readers speak on Gov. Ralph S. Northam
Does Gov. Ralph S. Northam have no human decency? The blackface and the Ku Klux Klan outfit each alone speak of racism. Shown together, they speak clearly of racist intent. This was in 1984.
Sen. Booker launches 2020 presidential bid
U.S. Sen. Cory Booker declared his bid for the presidency in 2020 with a sweeping call to unite a deeply polarized nation around a “common purpose.” Announcing his run on Friday, Feb. 1, the first day of Black History Month, the New Jersey Democrat is the second African-American candidate in a primary field that’s already historically diverse. He delivered his message of unity amid an era marked by bitter political division.
Friday, February 1
Former Mayor Walter T. Kenney Sr., who worked across racial, political and regional lines, dies at 88
Former Richmond Mayor Walter T. Kenney Sr. would have been out of step in today’s polarized politics. Mr. Kenney, a proud Richmond native who died Monday, Jan. 28, 2019, in a local hospital at age 88, is being remembered as the “consummate gentleman” of city politics who would talk with everyone, no matter their political leanings.
Spike Lee and Oscar
“People of color have a constant frustration of not being represented, or being misrepresented, and these images go around the world … I do not think there is going to be any substantial movement until people of color get into those gatekeeper positions of people who have a green-light vote. That is what it comes down to. We do not have a vote, and we are not at that table when it is decided what gets made and what does not get made.” — Spike Lee
Poverty and brotherhood
Writing to fellow clergy from a Birmingham jail, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., gravely concerned about all who were poor and experiencing inequality, said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”
Mayor Stoney at midterm
Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s victories and foibles are up for public review and discussion this week as he offers the annual State of the City address on Jan. 31.
What an old folks home should be
An old folks home should be a place where the comfort, safety and welfare of its residents is maintained.
Kudos to Dr. Brown
I would like to thank the Market @ 25th, a full service grocery store, for moving into the East End. From what I am seeing so far, they will be giving minority farmers and vendors a place to showcase their products.
More on 1619
The editorial and letter to the editor highlight some painful ironies of Virginia’s history. In 1619, some Virginians formed the first representative legislature in the New World. A few weeks later, some of those same Virginians purchased and probably enslaved the first recorded Africans who were forcibly stolen from their families and inhumanely transported across the Atlantic Ocean to Virginia.
Exploring STEM fields
Richmond area students had an opportunity to interact with professionals in STEM fields and college students in STEM-related degree programs last Saturday at the STEM-U-LINK 2019 Career Exploration Fair sponsored by the National Society of Black Engineers Richmond Professionals in partnership with Virginia Union University. The theme: “Define your roots and branch out to awesome careers.”
Alzheimer’s Association to host African-American community forum Feb. 27
The Greater Richmond Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association is hosting a range of seminars and programs during February to help families with loved ones who have the disease. An “African-American Community Forum” will be held 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27, at the Henrico Recreation Center, 1440 N. Laburnum Ave.
Black Lives Matter art exhibit to open Feb. 15
Entries are being accepted through Friday, Feb. 1, for artists interested in participating in the 3rd Annual Black Lives Matter Art Exhibit at First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond, 1000 Blanton Ave.
Richmond Environmental Film Festival kicks off Feb. 4
Call it a feast of 22 movies that will be shown at no charge with the goal of educating and raising awareness of environmental issues that are important to Richmond, the nation and the planet. That’s what the ninth edition of the Richmond Environmental Film Festival will be offering the public from Monday, Feb. 4, through Saturday, Feb. 16.
Johnson named executive director of BHM
Adele Johnson has been named executive director of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia. Ms. Johnson has served in the position on an interim basis for more than a year. The full appointment became effective Jan. 1.
400th Commemoration gives special designation to 37 state historical highway markers
Historical highway markers celebrating African-American history in Richmond and across the state are at the center of a new initiative aimed at encouraging people to learn about the people and places that shaped the state.
Henrico author wins prestigious Newbery Medal
A Henrico County-based children’s book author is the 2019 winner of the prestigious John Newbery Medal.
12 selected for VIA Heritage Association 2019 Hall of Fame
The Virginia Interscholastic Association’s 2019 Hall of Fame is glowing with noted Richmonders. Basketball legends Bobby Dandridge and Charles Bonaparte, football coaching icon Willard Bailey and Chief Judge Roger L. Gregory of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will be among the inductees at a ceremony in Charlottesville on June 28.
Florida teen bench presses 355 lbs.
A search for the nation’s strongest teenage girl might lead to Union County High School in Lake Butler, Fla. That’s where Mahailya Reeves, a 15-year-old freshman, set a Florida state record on Jan. 26 with a jaw-dropping 355-pound bench press.
Teon Tiller turns Thomas Jefferson High into a contender
Don’t blink. Blink once if you’re guarding Teon Tiller, and the Thomas Jefferson High School senior is likely to whiz past for yet another bucket.
Richmond’s Ed Davis ranks among NBA’s lords of the boards
Native Richmonder Ed Davis ranks with pro basketball’s lords of the boards. Few players crash the backboards more relentlessly than the former Benedictine Prep and University of North Carolina standout.
Now showing at First Baptist: Free Friday movies
Richmond’s First Baptist Church at 2709 Monument Ave. is hosting free movies on Friday nights in February through its “Classics and Cocoa” series.
North Side church to host food pantry for former furloughed federal workers
The Light Community Church in North Side will give away food and other much needed items to former furloughed federal workers from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, at the church, 601 Azalea Ave. Non-perishable food items, as well as diapers and baby wipes, will be available.
Henrico court ruling may impact Va. abortion clinics
Abortion clinics in Richmond and across the state might have to spend millions of dollars to upgrade to hospital-level standards if a new Henrico County Circuit Court judge’s ruling stands.
Grocery in the making
Cityscape: Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
A new Whole Foods Market is taking shape in the 2000 block of West Broad Street. It is one of several new grocery stores in planning or under construction in the city, including the Market @ 25th in Church Hill that is expected to open in March.
Free dental clinic Feb. 1 for uninsured youngsters
Virginia Commonwealth University Dental Care’s Pediatric Practice is hosting “Give Kids a Smile,” a free dental clinic for youngsters age 18 and under.
City gets 911 cell phone locator service
A new computer tool is helping 911 operators in Richmond locate people who are using cell phones to call police in emergencies. Despite being saddled with a difficult name, RapidSOS NG911, the tool enables operators to pinpoint the location of a caller who is unsure or unable to provide a location
New Richmond Police stables put on hold
Samson, Scooter and Toby, the horses in the Richmond Police Department’s Mounted Unit, will not be getting a new home. Without any fanfare, City Hall has dropped plans for developing a modern 12-stall stable at Crestview and Government roads in the East End.
VUU and VCU create dual-degree program
Students at Virginia Union and Virginia Commonwealth universities will be able to earn dual bachelor’s degrees from both schools in engineering and science through an initiative to launch next fall.
RRHA tenants still facing heating problems
At least 50 public housing tenants are hoping the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority will be able to fully restore their heat ahead of the bitter cold set to slam Richmond this week. The RRHA, buoyed by the end of the government shutdown that threatened its financial well-being, reported major progress in restoring heat to tenants.
Honorary street sign for late businessman Clarence L. Townes Jr. to be unveiled Sunday
An honorary street sign will be unveiled this weekend to salute the late Clarence L. Townes Jr., a Richmond businessman who played major roles in city government and political affairs for decades.
Thousands march for education
As thousands of teachers and supporters from around the state marched to the state Capitol Monday to call for higher salaries and more funding for Virginia’s public schools, legislative leaders announced they would include a 5 percent pay raise for teachers in the proposed state budget.
City Council expands VCU Police jurisdiction
A packed Richmond City Council meeting turned unruly Monday night as residents and council members clashed over an ordinance to expand the jurisdiction of Virginia Commonwealth University Police.
Brook Road bike lanes get the green light
Cars and trucks will have to surrender half of their lanes on Brook Road to cyclists. That’s the final decision of Richmond City Council, which voted 6-3 to install bike lanes and uphold a nearly 4-year-old approved plan for developing biking infrastructure in the city.
Coliseum project expected to be key in mayor’s State of the City address
The currently stalled $1.4 billion plan to have Richmond taxpayers build a new and bigger Richmond Coliseum as a way to attract new development to blocks near City Hall is anticipated to be a centerpiece of Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s second State of the City speech.
Black history Month calendar
From films to speakers to talent shows and panel workshops, area organizations, churches, schools and museums are holding a plethora of events in February to celebrate Black History Month.
Enrichmond Foundation now owns East End Cemetery
Twenty months after buying historic Evergreen Cemetery with state assistance, a city-created charity has taken ownership of a second neighboring African-American burial ground, East End Cemetery.
Julius Campbell, Northern Va. football player made famous in ‘Remember the Titans,’ dies at 65
Julius Campbell, whose role as captain of the T.C. Williams High School football team in Northern Virginia was made famous in the movie “Remember the Titans,” died Friday, Jan. 25, 2019, of organ failure.
Quarterbacks Tom Brady, Jared Goff betting on a Super Bowl win
What would the Super Bowl be without betting and, with that, the office pool? You can lay a friendly wager on just about anything, ranging from who wins the coin flip, to how long the national anthem takes, to when — if ever — stoic New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick cracks a smile, to the game’s champion.
Personality: Stephan A. Hicks
Spotlight on founder of nonprofit My Brother’s Keeper of Greater Richmond
“Men are the greatest resource in our city. However, services focusing on men in Richmond are severely lacking. When it comes to helping men get on their feet, there is little offered.”
Weathering addiction
Spencer Christian, Va. native and former national television weatherman, has been haunted by a gambling addiction for decades
Growing up in Charles City County in the last decades of legally mandated racial segregation in Virginia, Spencer Christian did not think as a child he would someday become a top nationally known television weather forecaster. As a young adult in a new American era, he became a well-recognized television personality as part of ABC’s “Good Morning America” team for 13 years.
