Thursday, October 31
Cityscape: Slice of life and scenes in Richmond
Carytown was filled with the living dead last Saturday as scores of ghoulishly costumed people participated in the 15th Annual Richmond Zombie Walk.
Comedian Dave Chappelle honored with Mark Twain Prize
Dave Chappelle has built a career on pushing boundaries and challenging social conventions. But his greatest act of defiance may have come Sunday night at Washington’s Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The Wizards of Magic to perform Friday
“The Wizards of Magic” will take people of all ages on a magical journey during two shows Friday, Nov. 1, at Pine Camp Cultural Arts Center, 4901 Old Brook Road.
Honoring Dorothy I. Height
It took seven months, but a second state history marker was unveiled Sunday honoring civil rights icon the late Dorothy I. Height, a Richmond native.
Author Ta-Nehisi Coates deconstructs power: 'The South won the war of aesthetics'
Author and Maryland native Ta-Nehisi Coates visited Richmond last week to discuss emancipation and to promote his New York Times best-seller, “The Water Dancer.”
NFL Hall of Famer Willie Brown dies at 78
Willie Brown, a headline performer for two of professional football’s iconic dynasties, died Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2019, at age 78 in Tracy, Calif.
27 people and 2 teams inducted into RPS Athletic Hall of Fame
The Richmond Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame, founded in 2015, continues to grow.
CIAA hopes fading for VUU and VSU
Salem Stadium, site of the CIAA Championship game on Nov. 16 in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, is looking much farther away now for Virginia Union and Virginia State universities. The window of opportunity has just about closed for both CIAA members following last Saturday’s gridiron results.
Chicago churches join growing movement of congregations paying off medical debt
This Thanksgiving, 5,888 families in Cook County, Ill., will receive a card with the names of several congregations belonging to different Protestant Christian denominations throughout the city of Chicago and these words: “Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We want you to know that all your debts have been forgiven.”
Rep. Cummings remembered as ‘fierce champion’
First African-American lawmaker to lie in state at Capitol
Rep. Elijah E. Cummings was eulogized as a leader with the fiery moral conviction of an Old Testament prophet at a funeral last Friday that brought former presidents and ordinary people alike to the Baltimore church where the congressman worshipped for four decades.
7 candidates vying for the 5th District City Council seat
When Richmond City Councilman Parker C. Agelasto steps down from his 5th District seat on Nov. 30, one of seven people will step up to take his place in City Hall, the result of a special election that could impact some of the city’s most pressing issues.
Former Rep. John Conyers, the longest-serving black lawmaker in U.S. House of Representatives, dies at 90
Former Rep. John Conyers, a liberal Democrat who was the longest-serving African- American member of the U.S. House of Representatives at more than half a century, died on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019, at the age of 90.
Personality: Carolyn Tibbs Hemphill
Spotlight on founder of the Hanover County Black Heritage Society
Black history runs deep in Hanover County, and Carolyn Tibbs Hemphill is on a mission to find it, preserve it and let the world know about it.
City Council approves 1% pension hike for retirees starting Jan. 1
As anticipated, Richmond City Council unanimously approved a 1 percent pension increase for retired city employees, beginning Jan. 1, during a special meeting on Monday.
ASWAD conference to bring hundreds of scholars to area next week
Nearly 1,000 people from 30 different countries are expected in Williamsburg next week for the 10th Biennial Conference of the Association for the Study of the Worldwide Diaspora, or ASWAD.
Wilder says VCU panel cleared him in probe; VCU spokesman says that's 'premature'
L. Douglas Wilder has maintained for months that a former Virginia Commonwealth University student made up a story that he made sexual advances toward her and propositioned her to be his mistress nearly three years ago.
Free rides to polls on Election Day
GRTC once again will provide free bus, Pulse and CARE van rides on Election Day within the city limits, it has been announced.
Henrico commonwealth’s attorney’s race hit with allegation of special treatment
The case of John J. Trak, who has been convicted of two felony drug possession charges and two other felonies since 2011, is roiling the election contest for Henrico County commonwealth’s attorney as the Nov. 5 election approaches.
Battle over Dominion Energy’s sponsorship leads to demonstrations at state NAACP events
Instead of leading a protest, the Virginia State Conference NAACP will be the target of demonstrations at its state convention this weekend because of the organization’s ties to Dominion Energy.
Former Gov. Baliles dies of cancer at 79
Former Virginia Gov. Gerald L. Baliles, a Democrat known as the “transportation governor” and for his work to clean up the Chesapeake Bay and increase foreign trade, died Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2019.
Democrat, Republican and independent candidates looking to fill open Henrico sheriff position
Three candidates are vying to be- come Henrico County’s next sheriff, succeeding longtime GOP Sheriff Mike Wade, who is stepping down after serving in the position since January 2000.
Stakes high for Tuesday’s General Assembly races
The future direction of Virginia will be on the line when voters in Richmond and across the state go to the polls next Tuesday, Nov. 5, to elect a new legislature.
Crusade’s candidate for 5th
The Richmond Crusade for Voters is proud of its heritage rich with the tradition of supporting candidates whose primary interest is eliminating injustices, creation of equality and providing a voice for the downtrodden, disabled and disaffected citizens in our community.
Eviction attempt highlights disconnect between RRHA and residents
The eviction of Creighton Court residents has been halted by the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority, according to housing officials who addressed the matter during a community meeting Monday evening in the Creighton Court Community Center.
Democratic Delegate Dawn Adams faces GOP's Garrison Coward in 68th District House race
Democratic Delegate Dawn Adams is running for re-election to keep her seat in the 68th House District, where she is facing a challenge by Republican Garrison Coward.
Henrico’s Varina District poised to elect 1st African-American female to county School Board
The Henrico County School Board is set for a historic new addition with next week’s election — its first African-American female member.
Henrico County Board of Supervisors district elections
Candidates and Q&A's for Henrico Board Of Supervisors
Navy Hill ship sinking?
Scrutiny of Coliseum replacement plan reveals major gaps
The grand plan Mayor Levar M. Stoney is pushing to replace the Richmond Coliseum with $1.5 billion in new Downtown development does not appear to include enough affordable housing to meet a City Council requirement.
Henrico Commonwealth's Attorney Shannon L. Taylor faces challenge by C. Owen Inge Conway
One of the standout local races is the contest for Henrico commonwealth’s attorney, where the winner is certain to be a woman.
Friday, October 25
City health district offering free flu shots on Friday
With fall finally arriving, the Richmond City Health District is looking to get ahead of any potential illness by bringing flu vaccinations to the public — all at no cost.
'Girl power' electrifies RPS mentoring program
Fourteen eighth-grade girls came together at Richmond’s Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in a room set up in the round with self-esteem games, prizes, conversation and positive energy as the sounds of Alicia Keys’ “Superwoman” fueled the atmosphere.
Cityscape: Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
Artist Austin Miles of Petersburg puts the finishing touches last week on this new mural that now decorates Max Market, 1125 Hull St.
Support those who support us
It is important that the community supports and stands behind The Market@25th.
Tribute to Rep. Elijah E. Cummings
by Marc H. Morial
It’s hard to express how great a loss the death of Congressman Elijah E. Cummings represents for the civil rights community.
Ensuring democracy by securing elections
by Sen. Mark R. Warner
For the past two years, I have served as vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, helping lead the only bipartisan investigation into Russia’s attack on the 2016 election. Our goal in this investigation is not to re-litigate the 2016 election or question its validity. Instead, we are focused on how we can protect the integrity of future elections so that every American heads to the polls confident that his or her vote will count.
Dr. Lucas officially inaugurated as VUU president
Dr. Hakim J. Lucas was inaugurated as Virginia Union University’s 13th president last week in an event that recognized and honored the historic institution’s past and future.
Get out
Court-ordered RRHA evictions raising alarms in Creighton Court
The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority has quietly stopped leasing apartments in the Creighton Court public housing community in the East End that is earmarked for future redevelopment.
Late journalist Gwen Ifill to be honored on USPS 2020 Forever stamp
Pioneering journalist Gwen Ifill, the late anchor of the PBS “News Hour,” will be honored on a Forever stamp in 2020, according to an announcement Tuesday by the United States Postal Service.
City shelter didn't open in last week's cold
City Hall never opened its homeless shelter last week even as temperatures plunged below 40 degrees for the first time this fall.
Learning from Kanye and Kim
Editorials
It will take a lot of money for anyone really trying to keep up with the Kardashians.
Summit provides resources, highlights needs of trans people of color
Hundreds of transgender people and their allies gathered last Saturday in Richmond for a 'trans conference' focused on providing resources to the LGBTQ community.
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Saturday
Area residents are encouraged to get rid of unused or expired medications during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 26.
Inaugural Pan-African International Festival of Culture & Unity slated for Oct. 27
A new festival promoting ties with Africa will be held in the Richmond area. “A Day 4 Africa!,” the inaugural Pan-African International Festival of Culture & Unity, is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27, on the grounds of the Afrikongo market, 3302 Williamsburg Road in Henrico County, it has been announced.
Wine Women & Shoes fundraiser Oct. 27
“Wine Women & Shoes,” the annual fundraiser to benefit the Bon Secours’ Forensic Nursing Program, will be held 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27, at the Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa at Short Pump, 12042 W. Broad St.
Richmond selected for national health survey
If you’ve found yourself watching your child’s toothpaste use because you’ve heard too much can damage tooth enamel, you’re familiar with the work of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The initiative recently began its research into the health condition of Richmond.
Bo Jones new assistant coach at Richard Bland
Former Huguenot High School and Virginia Common- wealth University basketball star Bo Jones Jr. has been named assistant coach at Richard Bland College in Petersburg.
Jalen Hurts in the running for Heisman Trophy
Jalen Hurts could have sulked, lost spirit and faded away as a college football quarterback. Instead, he has emerged — almost out of thin air — as a Heisman Trophy front-runner.
VSU loses homecoming game 24-14
Virginia State University’s football Trojans are going from one extreme to another. Coach Reggie Barlow’s squad is licking its wounds from a disheartening 24-14 homecoming loss last Saturday to Bowie State University that has a 7-0 record.
Can the VUU Panthers claw their way to victory over the Bowie State Bulldogs?
If Bowie State University is the tower of power in the CIAA Northern Division, then Virginia Union University hopes to play the role of wrecking ball.
Washington Nationals energize fans from D.C. to Puerto Rico in seeking World Series crown
Oh, how quickly opinions can change. In June, manager Dave Martinez was on the verge of termination when his Washington Nationals were 12 games under .500. Today, he’s the toast of parties throughout the Washington Beltway and as far away as Puerto Rico.
Interfaith group works to repair historic black church
Inside a small Woodside Avenue church set amongst the trees, the oldest African-American congregation in the northern Pioneer Valley has made its home for more than a century.
Funeral service Friday for Rep. Elijah E. Cummings of Maryland
Tributes continue to pour in for Congressman Elijah E. Cummings of Maryland, a moral voice of conscience who fought for civil rights and took on the White House as a prominent figure in the impeachment inquiry of President Trump as chairman of the powerful House Oversight and Reform Committee.
Personality: Melissa Hagerman
Spotlight on volunteer Richmond chair of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s
In 2002, Melissa Hagerman found herself at a crossroads following the death of her mother, whose experience with Alzheimer’s disease, in her words, slowly took her away from her family.
Home testing encouraged to eliminate lead paint hazard
Richmond has eliminated the lead paint hazard from 32 homes so far using a $2.3 million federal grant and has 13 more residential units that will be worked on, data show.
Legal Aid Justice Center moves
The Richmond Legal Aid Justice Center, a key nonprofit law firm and advocacy group serving low-income residents, relocated Monday to 626 E. Broad St.
Applications being accepted for heating assistance
It’s application time for families and individuals seeking financial assistance to keep the heat on.
Judge rules against Coliseum referendum
Any lingering hopes that a referendum to allow Richmond voters to weigh in on the Coliseum replacement project have been swept away by Judge Joi Jeter Taylor, chief judge of the Richmond Circuit Court.
City School Board approves expansion of early childhood education programs
The Richmond School Board approved a plan to expand early childhood programs to cover more students and families.
Prosecutors: Norfolk can move Confederate monument
Norfolk can relocate a Confederate monument despite a state law barring the removal of war memorials, the city’s top prosecutor and the state’s attorney general argued in a lawsuit.
Friday, October 18
Gymnast Simone Biles breaks medal record with 25
American Simone Biles became the most decorated gymnast in world championship history Sunday when she won the beam and floor finals to take her career tally to 25 medals.
Questions swirl about state NAACP's relationship with Dominion Energy
Is the Virginia State Conference NAACP starting to cozy up to Dominion Energy after more than two years of attacking the utility company’s push to construct a natural gas pipeline?
It's about time
More than 1,500 people attended Monday's ceremony in Capitol Square for the dedication of 'Voices from the Garden: The Virginia Women's Monument'
On a cloudy, yet cool fall Monday, Virginians celebrated women’s contributions to the advancement of the Commonwealth with the dedication of “Voices from the Garden: The Virginia Women’s Monument.”
'Something in the Water' festival returning to Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach native and music star Pharrell Williams is doing it again.
Social Security benefits to increase by 1.6% in 2020
Retirees in Richmond and across the country might have a little more money in their pockets come January.
Sturm drops out of City Council race
The race to replace Richmond City Councilmember Parker C. Agelasto got a little tighter last week when Graham Sturm ended his candidacy in the 5th District contest.
VCU Health System offers relief to certain patients with overdue bills
The VCU Health System, Virginia Commonwealth University’s medical arm, is taking steps to ease the financial stress on thousands of patients and their families struggling to pay their VCU hospital and doctors’ bills.
Banks' Coin Laundry in Jackson Ward closes
Banks’ Coin Laundry has closed after more than 80 years in Jackson Ward following the Sept. 19 death of the owner, Arlington R. Banks, 81.
RPS halts tough absence policy
A new policy requiring Richmond students to be marked absent for the day if they arrive more than 80 minutes after the start of classes without a written excuse is being abandoned.
Policy Pathways to host Fall Celebration and Fundraiser Oct. 24
Richmond Delegate Delores L. McQuinn and five students will be honored next week at the debut of a new nonprofit organized to enable young people of color to understand and become involved in shaping public policy.
City awarded $20,000 grant for new financial literacy program
A national group plans to assist Richmond City Treasurer Nichole Richardson Armstead and City Hall in creating a center to provide professional one-on-one financial counseling to low- and moderate-income city residents, it was announced Wednesday.
City Council approves use of Giles Center for winter overflow shelter
Homeless people once again will find shelter on bitter cold days at the Annie Giles Community Resource Center in Shockoe Valley, if they can get there.
Personality: Wendi White
Spotlight on co-chair of AKA’s ‘Sauté & Sizzle: Richmond Men Are Cooking’ fundraiser
Wendi White wears many different hats.
New interfaith group targeting predatory lenders
As pastor of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, the Rev. Rodney Hunter weekly hears stories of financial distress from members and non-members who seek help from his church.
Women's healing and deliverance conference Oct. 25 and 26
Dr. Khaalida Forbes, pastor of Truth City in Washington, and Bishop S. Teri Smith of Love Ministries Fellowship Church in Houston will be among the speakers at Fashioned for the Kingdom Healing and Deliverance Women’s Conference, a two-day event in Richmond to help women embrace their vision and maximize their potential.
Donnie McClurkin: 'I'm at a time now I sing when I want to'
Two decades ago, gospel singer and pastor Donnie McClurkin stepped on a London stage to record his second album. Now, he’s returning to the United Kingdom for 20th anniversary concerts on Oct. 18 and 19 to reprise the music of his “Live in London and More” CD that featured the songs “That’s What I Believe” and “We Fall Down.”
Meditation apps don't always provide enlightenment
Search your smartphone’s app store for “meditation” and you’ll get more than 1,000 results.
VUU heads into homecoming with 62-0 win over Lincoln
Virginia Union University has the potential to turn this weekend’s homecoming into showtime.
VSU to meet CIAA champ Bowie State in Saturday's homecoming
Virginia State University has won five straight games with a relatively soft schedule. On Saturday, Oct. 19, easy street ends.
Kenyan marathoner breaks 2-hour barrier
Kenyan Eliud Kipchoge made athletics history on Saturday when he became the first person to run a 26.2-mile marathon in under two hours, stretch- ing the limits of human endeavor and passing a milestone few thought could be reached for decades if at all.
Kenyan runners spark VUU cross-country team
Coming from some 7,500 miles away, Micah Kipruto and Enos Rotich feel right at home on America’s oval tracks and cross-country trails.
Coco wins first WTA title at 15; Osaka gives up U.S. citizenship to play for Japan in Olympics
Coco Gauff is still just 15. She also is already the owner of a WTA singles title.
Queen Latifah: A day of empowerment with a 'get out the vote' message
There was unity around one message in Richmond on Tuesday among a diverse crowd of more than 1,000 women: Empowerment.
VUU President Lucas to be inaugurated during homecoming week
Virginia Union University is officially inaugurating Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, its 13th president and chief executive officer, at a ceremony at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center in Downtown.
VSU celebrates homecoming this weekend
Virginia State University is celebrating its homecoming this weekend with a bevy of activities, including a jazz concert, golf tournament and comedy show.
VMFA to host women's empowerment forum this Saturday
Jean Patterson Boone, publisher of the Richmond Free Press, will be among a host of women panelists speaking at “Ascend and Lead: A Women’s Empowerment Forum,” sponsored by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, at the museum, 200 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd.
Free Press photographer to speak on her quest to find her late grandfather
A film about the quest of Richmond Free Press photographer Regina H. Boone to find out about her late grandfather who was imprisoned in a Japanese internment camp during World War II will be shown in Richmond.
2nd Annual RVA Booklovers' Festival Oct. 19
More than 30 authors and literature aficionados will give readings and lead discussions at the 2nd Annual RVA Booklovers’ Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, at Jefferson Park, 1921 Princess Anne Ave. in Church Hill.
Henrico County Community Day Oct. 19
Henrico County Community Day, which al- lows the community to gain greater knowledge and insight into the workings of county government and public school system, will be held 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, at Henrico High School, 302 Azalea Ave.
Civil rights activist Theresa A. Walker, widow of Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker, to speak on Oct. 26 panel
Theresa Ann Walker, a civil rights activist and widow of Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker who led the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and was chief of staff to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., will be featured at a panel, “The Role of Women in the Civil Rights Movement: The Chesterfield and Petersburg Experience,” at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at the Chesterfield County Central Library, 7051 Lucy Corr Blvd.
Documentary and panel on voting rights suppression set for Oct. 30
Voting rights and the efforts to suppress them is the focus of a film and panel discussion 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the Virginia Commonwealth University Institute for Contem- porary Art, 601 W. Broad St.
Changing the landscape
Editorials
We were delighted with the unveiling and dedication this week of “Voices from the Garden: The Virginia Women’s Monument” in Capitol Square.
Dreadful in Texas
Editorials
We are dismayed by news out of Fort Worth, Texas, that Atatiana Jefferson, a 28-year-old African-American woman babysitting her nephew in her own home, was shot and killed by a police officer as she stood near a window.
Suspend use of biased facial recognition technology
Columnists
It’s no secret that Amazon has been promoting DIY (Do It Yourself) surveillance products to consumers, such as its very own smart doorbell, Ring. But what Amazon shoppers and most everyday Americans are just starting to find out is that the real target customers for these surveillance tools are police departments and other law enforcement agencies — something that should have every person of color worried.
End blockade of funds for HBCUs
Columnists
Each year as families beam with pride at seeing a son, daughter or another relative graduate from college, that achievement is nearly always the result of a family’s commitment to higher education. And when these institutions are among more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities, that pride is magnified by the history of how our forefathers overcame what once seemed to be insurmountable challenges.
No more monuments to slave owners and Confederates
Letters to editor
On Monday, the Commonwealth of Virginia took another absurd step toward creating another space in Richmond to celebrate slave owners and Confederates.
Cityscape: Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
Rocks typically covered by the rushingwaters of the James River are now visible because of low water levels.
Friday, October 11
VUU trounces Livingstone 44-0; heads to rumble in Pa. this Saturday
Traditionally, schools try and book a “sure win” for homecoming to please the returning alumni. Not so this Saturday, Oct. 12, when the CIAA heavyweight Virginia Union University Panthers go up against Lincoln University of Pennsylvania for the Lions’ homecoming.
Gift giving
Letter to the editor
When my wife and I settled in the Richmond area from the then-smaller Fredericksburg region, we thought this area would be more tolerant and open-minded.
Fannie Lou Hamer, breast cancer and black women
Columnists
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the proliferation of pink ribbons is starting. Predatory capitalists will make breast cancer their cause, producing pink T- shirts, pocketbooks, everything.
Congress is duty-bound to investigate Trump
Columnists
“Any attempt by a President to use the office of the presidency of the United States for personal political gain — rather than the national interest — fundamentally undermines our sovereignty, democracy and the Constitution ... Misuse of the office of the presidency for such a corrupt purpose would thus represent a clear breach of the trust placed in the President to faithfully ex-ecute the laws of the United States and to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.” – U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; U.S. Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, chair of the Committee on Oversight and Reform; and U.S. Rep. Eliot L. Engel, chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs
First Amendment binds all American freedoms
Editorials
Freedom of the press, of speech, of religion, of assembly and to petition the government are woven, like stars in the flag, into the fabric of the First Amendment.
A free press
Editorials
The Richmond Free Press joins publications across the nation this week in observing the 79th Annual National Newspaper Week.
Richmond Folk Festival returns Oct. 11 through 13
The Richmond riverfront will again play host to a free suite of musical events across three days, seven stages and several blocks during the 15th Annual Richmond Folk Festival this weekend from Friday, Oct. 11, through Sunday, Oct. 13.
Crab fest Oct. 13 to promote voting, community spirit
James E. “J.J.” Minor once again is hosting a free crab feast to promote voting and community togetherness.
7 educators to be honored Oct. 12
Seven retired Richmond educators, including former city schools Superintendent Lucille M. Brown, will be honored at a brunch celebrating the 400-year legacy of extraordinary African-American women.
Catena Parker Foundation to host walk for missing children
The Catena L. Parker Foundation for Missing Children is hosting its annual walk to call attention to the issue of missing children 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 12.
Queen Latifah to host Women's Achieve Summit in Richmond Oct. 15
Rapper, singer-songwriter, actress-producer Queen Latifah is coming to Richmond.
Track and field starts with local ties stand out in World Championship
The Richmond area wasn’t without rooting interests at the 2019IAAFWorldAthleticsChampionships in Doha, Qatar. Two medalists — one gold, one silver — are linked to Central Virginia.
Winston-Salem State creates scholarship honoring Stephen Smith
Winston-Salem State University has named an athletic scholarship honoring ESPN sports- caster Stephen A. Smith, a 1991 alumnus of the university.
VSU 'Trojan Express' rolls over Shaw; now heading to Elizabeth City
All aboard the Trojan Express. It’s hard to say what’s rumbling louder nowadays — Virginia State University’s offense or the Amtrak trains passing within earshot of campus.
Architect for black history museum in D.C. wins another big commission
The project was an architect’s dream and a potential nightmare: Design a tripartite worship space — to include a Catholic church, a synagogue and a mosque — in the heart of the conflict-ridden Middle East, in order to promote tolerance and at the same time reflect the three great Abrahamic faiths, which are so often at loggerheads.
Friends of East End Cemetery wins $25,000 grant
Volunteers who have worked since 2013 to reclaim one of Richmond’s historic and formerly neglected African-American cem- eteries are in high spirits after getting a new financial boost to their efforts to restore and archive a part of black history.
Trailblazing actress Diahann Carroll succumbs to cancer at 84
Diahann Carroll, a versatile singer and stage actress who quietly blazed a trail for African-American women on American television in the late 1960s by playing a widowed nurse and single mother in “Julia,” died Friday, Oct. 4, 2019.
Margaret Rodgers, retired teacher and tech guru for RPS, dies at 75
Margaret Aurelia “Rea” Rodgers was a teacher’s teacher in Richmond Public Schools when it came to computers and technology.
Personality: Robert Dunham
Spotlight on Richmond teacher and founder of ‘Be the Change RVA’
Robert Dunham proves that when it comes to teachers, he’s a cut above the rest.
Some see rush to forgive as rush to forget racial violence
When a white Dallas police officer who killed an innocent African-American man in his own living room was sent off to prison last week with a hug from the victim’s brother and the African-American judge on the case, some saw it as a moment of amazing grace and redemption. Many African-Americans, though, saw something all too familiar and were offended.
Joshua Brown, key witness in Botham Jean case, fatally shot
Dallas authorities are insisting that the slaying of Joshua Brown, a key witness in the murder trial of a former Dal- las police officer, was part of a drug deal gone bad and not connected to his testimony in the case against Botham Jean’s killer.
Independent commission to redraw City Council districts?
An independent commission might redraw the boundaries of City Council districts following the upcoming 2020 Census.
Lt. Gov. Fairfax files amended suit in $400M defamation case
Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin E. Fairfax’s lawsuit against CBS took another turn last week, when an amended lawsuit was filed Oct. 3, asserting that Richmond allies of a chief political rival, Mayor Levar M. Stoney, helped spread what he has called a “false” charge of sexual assault.
Mayor to initiate gun reporting and distracted driving legislation
Mayor Levar M. Stoney wants to fine people who fail to report a lost or stolen firearm within 24 hours and also crack down on drivers who are paying too much attention to their mobile phones.
Carver Elementary students get new footwear
Carver Elementary School in Richmond had a banner day on Sept. 19. A cadre of businessmen surprised an assembly of the school’s 80 third-graders with new sneakers.
City Council works on plan to divvy up $17M surplus
Retired city employees are virtually guaranteed to gain the first cost-of-living increase in their pensions in at least a decade.
In city, state money for street maintenance used for more than streets
Every year, Richmond receives about $28 million from the state for street maintenance. But it turns out virtually all of that money goes to maintain everything about a street but the asphalt, according to Bobby Vincent, director of the city Department of Public Works.
$15M repaving effort underway in city
Cityscape: Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
The promised extra money is starting to flow into repaving streets across the city.
VSU Trojan Explosion Marching Band suspended amid hazing allegations
All perfomances of the Virginia State University’s marching band have been suspended following allegations of hazing by band members, university officials said Monday.
Mayor Stoney throws over Columbus to proclaim Oct. 14 Indigenous Peoples' Day
Richmond has long refused to recognize the annual federal Columbus Day holiday that will fall on Monday, Oct. 14, to remember the European explorer Christopher Columbus who “discovered” America.
Bad for grads
Richmond Public Schools’ 70.6% on-time graduation rate is lowest in Virginia
Richmond Public Schools had the lowest graduation rate in Virginia last June.
Friday, October 4
Food fight
Highland Springs-based food ministry scrambles to generate new food sources after being shut out by Feed More
For the past year, Brian Purcell has stopped by the Kroger store in Mechanicsville four days a week to pick up unsold prepared food and bakery items the store otherwise would have thrown away.
Abner Clay Park to get facelift
Cityscape: Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
Construction fencing now surrounds most of Abner Clay Park in Jackson Ward as a long-awaited facelift begins on the park in the next few days. A children’s playground and a basketball court will remain open until work begins on those portions of the park next year.
Isn’t it time for a promised honor?
Wouldn’t you agree that something is wrong if a top figure at a Richmond university told the world you were going to receive a tremendous honor, but the university never delivered that honor? That is what happened to me.
Worker power
Columnists
More than 2,200 nurses at the University of Chicago Medical Center went out on strike re-cently, but they are not alone. American workers are waking up and walking out.
Homelessness: A national crisis
Columnists
For more than a decade, economists, lawmakers and others have heralded the nation’s economy, often citing how unemployment has declined as new jobs have been created, or Wall Street trading and major bank profits rise. Some might be led to believe that all is well in America. But as Sportin’ Life in the folk opera “Porgy and Bess” sang, “It ain’t necessarily so.”
Your vote is your voice
Editorials
Voting is your right and your power. And on Nov. 5, Virginia will hold elections for the 140 seats in the General Assembly.
RPS: A snapshot from the state
Editorials
There were no surprises in the report released this week by the Virginia Department of Education. The report showed that fewer than half of Richmond’s public schools — 20 of the 44 schools — are fully accredited.
17th Annual Gabriel Forum set for Oct. 8 at the African Burial Ground
A public forum and the debut of a new dance work next week will call attention to Gabriel, the Richmond man who organized the area’s largest slave revolt, and the African Burial Ground in Downtown where he was executed after the 1800 uprising for freedom failed. The 17th Annual Gabriel Forum will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8, at the burial ground at 16th and Broad streets. =
New ICA exhibit, 'Great Force,' to include late Free Press founder
The power of white culture versus black resistance is at the heart of a major art show opening this week at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Institute for Contemporary Art.
Kehinde Wiley statue unveiled in Times Square; next home, Richmond
Artist Kehinde Wiley unveiled his biggest work ever last Friday — a massive bronze statue of a young African-American man in urban streetwear sitting astride a galloping horse. Called “Rumors of War,” it flips the script on traditional statues in Richmond and through-out the South commemorating white generals.
20 out of 44: That is how many city schools are fully accredited
Richmond Public Schools has taken two steps forward and one step back when it comes to full accreditation of the city schools.
African-American quarterbacks making an impact in NFL
Rookie quarterback Kyler Murray signed a lucrative four- year contract with the NFL Arizona Cardinals worth more than $35 million. Early indicators suggest he may be worth every penny.
VSU rolls over J.C. Smith; ready for Shaw on Saturday
The spotlight will be on the quarterbacks this Saturday, Oct. 5, at Virginia State University. Both Cordelral Cook of the host VSU Trojans and Torrin Campbell of visiting Shaw University are building All-CIAA credentials.
VUU pulls out a win in last 21 seconds
The Virginia Union University Panthers have played like Houdini in their last two outings, escaping disaster on their home field. This Saturday, Oct. 5, the Panthers hope to take that magic to Livingstone College in Salisbury, N.C., in a battle of CIAA championship contenders. In sports jargon, there’s winning by a nose, by a hair, even by a split second. In defeating Winston-Salem State University last Saturday, VUU won by an instep — that of soccer-style kicker Jefferson Souza. The final score: 16-15. The Brazilian born Souza booted three field goals during the game at Hovey Field, most dramatically a game-winning 25-yard field goal with a mere 21 seconds left. VUU fans are getting accustomed to being nervous. The week before, the heavily favored Panthers weren’t assured victory over Johnson C. Smith University until Sterling Hammond’s interception and touchdown return in the game’s closing minute. Jarrett Sumiel was the Panthers’ late-game defensive savior against Winston-Salem State. The defensive back from Westmoreland blocked a Rams punt with 1:52 to go and recovered on the Winston-Salem State 19-yard line. That set up Souza’s decisive kick that pushed VUU’s record to 3-1 overall and 1-0 in the CIAA. Tabyus Taylor led the Panthers’ ground-and-pound running game with 76 bullish yards. The junior from Hopewell also caught two passes for 30 yards and returned a kickoff for 58 yards. Panthers quarterback Khalid Morris hit 11 of 14 passes for 114 yards and a touchdown to former Highland Springs High star Jaiden Reavis. Tyrone Glanton and Hammond spearheaded the Panthers’ defense against Winston-Salem State. Glanton, a graduate student from Miami, was in on eight tackles and has 31 stops for the year. Hammond, arguably the CIAA’s top NFL prospect in years, had seven tackles against the Rams and has 40 for the season. Like VUU, upcoming opponent Livingstone College also is enjoying life on the gridiron. The Blue Bears are 4-0, with wins over Chowan University, Elizabeth City State University, Allen University of Columbia, S.C., and most recently a 35-19 victory over Lincoln University. Livingstone travels best by the arm of quarterback Miles Hayes. The Miami native has hit 68 percent of his passes. He averages 204 yards through the air with eight touchdowns. Livingstone appears to be on the uptick under fifth-year Coach Daryl Williams. The Blue Bears were 0-10 in 2017 and 3-6 a year ago, including a 52-19 loss to VUU at Hovey Field. Livingstone’s only CIAA titles came back to back in 1997 and1998, while VUU has won 11 CIAA crowns, most recently in 2001. This is a pivotal game for both teams. With tough schedules looming, both need a victory to remain viable candidates for the CIAA cham- pionship game in Salem.
Frank Lloyd Wright synagogue continues 60 years later as work of art
Sixty years ago, just before the Jewish High Holy Days, members of a Conservative synagogue processed into their new sanctuary, marking a new era in their congregational life and in modern religious architecture.
International opera star Jessye Norman dies at 74
Jessye Norman, the renowned international opera star whose passionate soprano voice won her four Grammy Awards, the National Medal of Arts and the Kennedy Center Honor, has died, according to family spokesperson Gwendolyn Quinn.
Barbara W. Rabin, a founder of HOME, dies at 86
Most people take for granted that if they have the money to pay rent or cover a mortgage, they can live anywhere they want in the Richmond area. But that was not the case 50 years ago when skin color often trumped income in segregated Richmond. Barbara Wurtzel Rabin and a group of African-American and white colleagues ushered in change. They organized Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia, or HOME, and broke the back of overt dis- crimination in the sale and leasing of residences with lawsuits and other actions to enforce the 1968 federal Fair Housing Act.
Personality: Christa Lynne Coleman
Spotlight on board member of Peter Paul Development Center
It is unbelievable for Christa Lynne Coleman, daughter of the founder of Peter Paul Development Center, to celebrate the organization’s 40th anniversary as well as the life and legacy of her late father.
Eviction forum set for Oct. 10
Legislative candidates from around Metro Richmond are expected to tackle the issue of eviction during a forum 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, 428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd.
Evictions in Virginia
Scholars, lawyers and lawmakers are grappling with high eviction rates in Virginia and how to enact solutions.
Coliseum referendum appears doubtful for Nov. 5 ballot
A nonbinding referendum on the $1.5 billion Coliseum replacement plan more than likely will not be on the Nov. 5 ballot despite claims that the city’s voter registrar wrongly disqualified the signatures of hundreds of registered Richmond voters who signed petitions seeking to allow the vote.
Hampton University welcomes students from the Bahamas
Hampton University’s drumline raised the roof with crisp cadences as students — victims of Hurricane Dorian in the Ba- hamas — arrived last week at Richmond International Airport to journey to their new academic “home by the sea.”
Kemba Smith Pradia appointed to Virginia Parole Board
The appointment of Kemba Smith Pradia to the Virginia Parole Board by Gov. Ralph S. Northam is being cited as a courageous step by Virginia officials to right criminal justice system wrongs that targeted her generation.
Memo goes out to city workers in wake of federal overtime suit
An ongoing lawsuit alleging City Hall failed to pay Department of Finance employees overtime has begun ushering in change.
2020 early voting requiring city registrar to think outside the ballot box
Lines of voters wrapped around City Hall waiting to cast ballots? That’s a distinct possibility, according to Richmond Voter Registrar Kirk Showalter as she looks ahead to the 2020 presidential election.
Grand Illumination gets the bah humbug
For 34 years, the Grand Illumination has been a major part of Richmond’s official launch of the holiday season and a prelude to the Christmas Parade along Broad Street to escort Santa Claus into Downtown. But that’s about to change.
Layoffs, other challenges hit The Market@25th
A new Church Hill grocery store is facing challenges five months after opening.
