Friday, January 31
Delta Air Lines fined $50,000 for booting off 3 Muslim passengers
Delta Air Lines is being fined $50,000 for ordering three Muslim passengers off planes even after the airline’s own security officials cleared them to travel.
Mourning Kobe by Arthur Cribbs
When I heard of the passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, along with seven others in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, Calif., I had an initial feeling of shock, disbelief and numbness. And in the hours since hearing the news, that feeling has not gone away. For a lot of us in this world, this feeling isn’t going away anytime soon. It truly felt like losing someone close. In this time of mourning, I just want to say, “Thank you, Kobe.”
Promises, promises
We congratulate Richmond City Council members Kim B. Gray, Chris A. Hilbert, Kristen N. Larson, Stephanie A. Lynch and Reva M. Trammell who — like we — are neither bought nor bound to Dominion Energy CEO Tom Farrell’s and Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s vision of a $1.5 billion new Coliseum and accompanying development in Downtown.
Slavery museum in Liverpool aims to confront painful legacy
carlet shackles sit peacefully on display in front of a sad, gray backdrop. The now rusted leg irons once locked human ankles during 18th century voyages from Africa to some European port, then to the Americas. Who the shackles held remains a mystery. But as a citizen of the United States, I’ve likely broken bread with a descendant of the woman forced to wear this instrument. Maybe my uncle fought alongside her kin in a war. Or it’s possible one of her distant relatives is now my relative. These are the thoughts I entertain while recently walking through the reflective International Slavery Museum in Liverpool, England.
Grammys not just about the music
The Grammy Awards wasn’t just about the music Sunday night. The show opened with a dedication to basketball icon Kobe Bryant, who died in a helicopter accident earlier in the day and whose Los Angeles Lakers team has its home at the city’s Staples Center and Grammy venue.
Louis Draper exhibition, 'Working Together,' opens Feb. 1 at VMFA
A new exhibit focusing on the photography of late Henrico County native Louis Draper and other photographers he worked with in New York will open Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd.
Jackson Ward resident starting Wall of Love to help those in need
Richmond is about to join the Walls of Love movement that seeks to provide basic necessities to the homeless and needy without any questions or judgments.
A month of events celebrating Black History
The vision for Black History Month 2020 will be a plethora of events including films, speakers and panel workshops at area venues, churches, schools and museums.
N.Y. Mets name Luis Rojas as general manager
Luis Rojas grew up watching his father, Felipe Rojas Alou, manage big league baseball teams. Now it’s Luis’ turn.
Richard Bland student is a hoops legacy
One family has treated the Tri-Cities area to three scoops of hoops. Antonio Pua’auli-Pelham represents three generations of basketball excellence in the Tri-Cities area.
VSU and NSU to open football season Sept. 5
Virginia State and Norfolk State universities will open their 2020 football seasons against each other on Sept. 5 at Dick Price Stadium in Norfolk. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
VCU's Nah'Shon Hyland: A freshman with impact
The Virginia Commonwealth University Rams opened this season with a vacancy for a shooter. Nah’Shon Hyland was quick to apply for and be awarded the position. Answering to “Bones,” the 6-foot-3, 165-pound freshman from Wilmington, Del., has become an added attraction the Rams needed on the perimeter.
Bevy of scorers keeps VSU on top
The Virginia State University basketball team keeps opponents guessing. They never know which Trojan will ruin their day. Starting this week, six VSU Trojans were averaging between 12.1 and 7.4 points per game.
Patrick Mahomes' time has come in Super Bowl LIV
For far too long, there was a bigoted suspicion that African-Americans “didn’t have what it takes” to play quarterback on the brightest NFL stage. Doug Williams broke that bigoted myth in 1988. The Kansas City Chiefs’Patrick Mahomes II plans to continue shattering such notions Sunday, Feb. 2, in Miami.
Parole-to-prison merry-go-round, by Dr. Donald Fraser
State-run parole and probation programs are designed to keep persons convicted of crimes, including a very large number of nonviolent crimes, out of prison.
Auschwitz survivors warn of rising anti-Semitism 75 years after camp's liberation
Survivors of the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp prayed and wept as they marked the 75th anniversary of its liberation, returning Monday to the place where they lost entire families and warning about the ominous growth of anti-Semitism and hatred in the world.
Jazz saxophonist and composer Jimmy Heath dies at 93
Jimmy Heath, a Grammy-nominated jazz saxophonist and composer who performed with such greats as Miles Davis and John Coltrane before forming the popular family group The Heath Brothers in middle age, has died. He was 93.
Personality: Dr. Kelli Williams Gary
Spotlight on president-elect of the Brain Injury Association of Virginia
Dr. Kelli Williams Gary knows how important and precious the human brain is. She is a survivor of brain injury, a researcher of the condition and is president-elect of the board of the Brain Injury Association of Virginia, the commonwealth’s only state- wide brain injury support and advocacy group.
Work resumes on new boutique hotel in Downtown
Work to create a boutique hotel in a former eight-story office building at 501 E. Franklin St. has resumed.
United Way offering free tax preparation services
Area residents with an annual household income below $56,000 can get free tax preparation help this season through the United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
RRHA's 2018-19 HUD plan included Creighton Court redevelopment
An empty construction trailer now sits on the grounds of the long-vacant Baker School building in Gilpin Court. The arrival of the trailer that is to serve as construction offices is the first signal that the pending redevelopment of the building at 100 W. Baker St. into 51 senior apartments might soon begin.
RRHA extends eviction freeze until May 1
The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority’s moratorium on public housing evictions will continue for another three months, through May 1, officials have announced.
Supporters urge school name change to Marsh
A small, but vocal contingent asked the Richmond School Board to rename George Mason Elementary School after noted civil rights attorney Henry L. Marsh III during a public hearing Monday night.
City Council approves Salvation Army headquarters move; honors former park superintendent
The Salvation Army will be able to move its headquarters and shelter from Downtown to 1900 Chamberlayne Ave., next to a Wells Fargo bank branch.
Former Chesterfield NAACP president files defamation suit against branch treasurer
The former president of the Chesterfield Branch NAACP is seeking payback after being accused of embezzling branch funds last year in a case that ultimately was dismissed.
Go 'Red4Ed:' Teachers lobby for education $
The State Capitol echoed with the chants “Fund Our Future!” and “Red4Ed!” as educators, students and their supporters gathered in the thousands Monday afternoon to press for increased state funding for teachers and public schools in Virginia.
Questions, lawsuit arise as Va. ratifies ERA
Virginia became the last state needed to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment on Tuesday as the state Senate approved on a 27-12 vote a House of Delegates resolution endorsing an amendment to the U.S. Constitution stating that the rights of women “shall not be denied or abridged” because of their gender.
At 'Camp Cathy' tent city for the homeless, people live by the rules
Rhonda L. Sneed is proud of creating the most affordable housing community in Richmond — a tent city located on Oliver Hill Way across the street from the Richmond Justice Center.
Kobe Bryant's legacy felt in Richmond, around the world
Purple and gold-themed tributes of praise have sprung up as Richmond and communities in Virginia and around the world recognize the life and accomplishments of the late basketball star Kobe Bryant, an 18-time All-Star who won five NBA championships during his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers.
No go
5 City Council members ask Mayor Stoney to withdraw $1.5B Coliseum replacement and Downtown redevelopment plan, a major signal he doesn't have the votes needed for approval
The $1.5 billion Coliseum replacement plan is dead. Five members of Richmond City Council sounded the death knell Monday night by introducing a resolution calling on Mayor Levar M. Stoney to withdraw the ordinances regarding the project he presented last summer and to work with City Council to create a plan for developing the city-owned property near City Hall that could generate public support.
Mayor eschews status quo, urges city to think bigger in State of City address
Stop being afraid to do something great. That’s Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s response to the opposition to the $1.5 billion Coliseum replacement plan that so far has failed to gain widespread public support.
The United States needs no traitors or dictators in charge
Those Republicans who support Donald Trump are like Donald Trump himself — traitors to America. Does America have to be totally destroyed before Donald Trump is deposed?
Friday, January 24
Central Va. African American Chamber of Commerce supports Navy Hill project
The Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce has enthusiastically endorsed the proposed $1.5 billion Navy Hill District Corp. program because the Navy Hill developers have promised to “maximize the capacity” of minority business owners.
Rep. McEachin a ‘Johnny-come-lately’ on removing Confederate statues
Re “McEachin, Wexton call for replacement of Lee statue in U.S. Capitol,” Free Press Dec. 26-28 edition:
Can a woman win in 2020? by Julianne Malveaux
In a most unusual endorsement, the New York Times has endorsed both U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota for the Democratic nomination for president.
Resist efforts to divide people by Marc H. Morial
A report that hate crimes surged in America’s five largest cities last year has broken just as we honor the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the nation’s best known victim of a hate crime.
Lobby Day 2020: An affront to Dr. King
There was something eerie and insulting about the thousands of gun-toting lobbyists who packed the area around Capitol Square on Monday to demand that Virginia lawmakers not step on their Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.
'Saving Black Men, Empowering Black Families' symposium scheduled for Jan. 25
Thirteen speakers and panelists will address the subject “Saving Black Men, Empowering Black Families” from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, during a symposium at Virginia Union University’s Claude G. Perkins Living and Learning Center, it has been announced. Open to the public without charge, the event is the annual MLK Beloved Community Symposium co-sponsored by VUU, Living the Dream Inc. and Success Motivation.
Gun rights demonstration Downtown attracts thousands, fear
Richmond was on high alert Monday, as thousands of people — many with high- powered weapons — flooded Downtown to show their support for gun rights in Virginia as the General Assembly considers gun control measures.
Gov. Northam acknowledges his own uncomfortable truths
Nearly a year after public revelations of racist photos published on his medical school yearbook page, Gov. Ralph S. Northam offered a mea culpa at Virginia Union University’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Leaders Breakfast and acknowledged the lessons he has learned confronting some of his own painful truths.
Speakers herald progress ahead at VUU's 42nd Annual Community Leaders Breakfast
Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn, the first woman and first Jewish speaker in the 401-year history of the Virginia House of Delegates, offered a message about the value of inclusion, diversity and progress at Virginia Union University’s 42nd Annual Community Leaders Breakfast honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Coach McKay putting Liberty U. on the map
One of college basketball’s most alluring stories is unfolding just 114 miles west of Richmond in Lynchburg. Coach Ritchie McKay has stapled Liberty University — not exactly a hoops heavyweight — on the national basketball rankings map.
Devyn Coles makes Freshman All-America team
It didn’t take long for Devyn Coles to become a force for Norfolk State University football.
One HBCU alum to play in Super Bowl
The Kansas City Chiefs are returning to the Super Bowl for the first time in 50 years, and much has changed in the last half century.
Classic win for VUU Lady Panthers
The Virginia Union University Lady Panthers would prefer to have two McNeills in its lineup, but the team will settle for one. Even with Shareka McNeill sidelined with a knee injury, the Lady Panthers continue to be a dominant team in the CIAA and in the NCAA Division II.
Pounce
VUU Panthers drub the VSU Trojans 83-62 in Freedom Classic
If the Virginia Union University Panthers were homesick, it didn’t show. In the midst of an epic road trip, the Panthers looked comfortable and confident in routing host Virginia State University 82-62 in the 25th Annual Freedom Classic last Saturday at the VSU Multi-Purpose Center.
Trump pledges to prevent 'unacceptable' repression of school prayer
President Trump, surrounded by schoolchildren of a variety of faiths, announced what he called “historic steps to protect the First Amendment right to pray in the public schools.”
Multiracial churches growing, but challenging for clergy of color
For four hours at a megachurch outside of Dallas, pastors of color shared their personal stories of leading a multiethnic church.
Full-court press
Navy Hill District Corp. is pulling out all stops as Feb. 24 vote by City Council on $1.5B Coliseum replacement and Downtown development nears
From robocalls to press conferences, the Navy Hill District Corp. that Dominion Energy top executive Thomas F. Farrell II heads is pulling out all the stops to generate public support for the $1.5 billion Richmond Coliseum replacement plan ahead of the scheduled vote by City Council in late February.
Dr. Willie Woodson comes out of retirement to lead new congregation
Dr. Willie Woodson has come out of retirement to take another pulpit.
Howard E. Fitts Sr., former president of Robinson-Harris & Co., dies at 95
For more than 40 years, Howard E. Fitts Sr. was a key figure in buying and selling property in Richmond.
Personality: Dr. Patricia Herrera
Spotlight on 2019 Collaborative Research Award winner
Dr. Patricia Herrera was in college when her sense of self was expanded.
VCU offers plan for historic Moore Street School
The historic, but largely vacant Moore Street School — one of the first built for black children in Richmond — could have a new role as a university-run day care center. After months of talks and harsh criticism from community advocates about the building’s deteriorating condition, the Richmond School Board is mulling a proposal from Virginia Commonwealth University to make that happen.
Richmond schools to be closed Jan. 27
Richmond Public Schools will be closed Monday, Jan. 27, because a large number of teachers will be attending the Virginia Education Association’s “Fund Our Future” rally at the State Capitol advocating for more state funding for public schools.
Details of new East End Boys and Girls Club expected next week
Plans to turn a former East End shopping center into a new Boys and Girls Club focused on teenagers are gaining steam. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond is expected next week to provide more details of its plan to redevelop the now vacant Eastlawn Shopping Center into a new teen-centric addition to its offerings.
Monument Avenue group raises $107,000 for Carver Elementary
A new microphone system for the auditorium. Whiteboards and projectors in every classroom. Kidney-shaped desks in each room to allow teachers to work with small groups of children needing extra attention. Those are the kinds of items that soon will be coming to Carver Elementary School, thanks to a successful fundraiser that a nonprofit group conducted on behalf of the school.
RRHA board takes major step to redevelop Creighton Court
New homes and apartments could begin to rise in Creighton Court within one to two years, if the financing can be arranged, according to the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority.
RPS $311.2M budget for 2020-21 unveiled
Superintendent Jason Kamras’ proposed $311.2 million general fund operating budget for the new fiscal year that will begin July 1 received mixed reviews at the Richmond School Board meeting on Monday night.
Pamunkey Tribe launches plan for $350M casino resort in South Side
A Virginia Indian tribe that includes Richmond as part of the territory where tribal ancestors lived and hunted before the English invasion is planning to make a splashy return to this modern city in the form of a $350 million resort hotel and casino.
Duke and Duchess walk away from 'royal highness'
Goodbye, your royal highnesses. Hello, life as — almost— ordinary civilians. Britain’s Prince Harry and his American wife, Meghan Markle, no longer will use the titles “royal highness” or receive public funds for their work under a deal that lets the couple step aside as working royals, Buckingham Palace announced last Saturday.
Trump impeachment trial opens with GOP Senate majority rejecting Dems' attempts to bring in new witnesses
The U.S. Senate plunged into opening arguments Wednesday in President Trump’s impeachment trial, with Democratic House managers detailing the case that the president abused his power and should be removed from office.
Friday, January 17
Mary F. Conyers, former RPS teacher, dies at 87
Mary Foster Conyers never forgot a promise she made to her father when she got married — that she would complete her college degree.
Mayor, Navy Hill officials try to sweeten the pot for $1.5B Coliseum plan approval
Can a series of revisions save the massive $1.5 billion Coliseum replacement and Downtown redevelopment plan that for months has appeared to be headed for rejection by Richmond City Council?
Not here
Virginia Union University rescinds permission for outside group to use campus facility for Trump event
Virginia Union University on Tuesday pulled out of allowing a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration after learning the private group arranging the event planned to bring President Trump to the campus to be honored.
Independence day: Queen blesses Harry's and Meghan's exit as senior royals
Queen Elizabeth has reluctantly agreed to the wish of her grandson, Prince Harry, and his wife, former American actress Meghan Markle, for a more independent future after the British royal family held crisis talks on Monday to resolve a widening rift among the Windsors.
Serena Williams wins Auckland Classic; donates money to help bushfire victims
Former world No. 1 tennis star Serena Williams won the World Tennis Association’s Auckland Classic last Sunday — her first title since 2017 — and immediately donated her prize money to aid victims of Australia’s deadly bushfires.
Gov. Northam issues temporary weapons ban
Fearing a repeat of the deadly violence that engulfed Charlottesville more than two years ago, Gov. Ralph S. Northam declared a temporary state of emergency Wednesday that would ban all weapons, including guns, knives, sticks, bats, chains and projectiles, from Capitol Square through the weekend and until Tuesday.
Beauty and brains
Miss America shows Carver students how royalty and science mix
Wearing a white lab coat adorned with sequins, goggles and a sparkling crown, newly crowned Miss America Camille Schrier demonstrated mad science as she mesmerized an excited and cheering group of Carver Elementary School fourth-graders Wednesday at the Science Museum of Virginia.
Bill would set up regional transportation authority and generate $ for public projects, including GRTC transfer station
A proposal that could generate tens of millions of dollars for roads and GRTC transit service in Richmond and eight other localities in the region is working its way through the General Assembly.
Salvation Arms headquarters move to North Side has clear path from City Council
The Salvation Army appears to have won its nine-month battle to move its Central Virginia headquarters and shelter program from Downtown to North Side after the main opponent, 3rd District Councilman Chris A. Hilbert, dropped his opposition.
Planned Parenthood to open clinic in Church Hill
The former home of Edloe’s Pharmacy and Drs. Frank S. and Harry W. Royal’s medical practices in Church Hill is being transformed into a full-service women’s clinic for the Virginia League for Planned Parenthood.
ERA passes hurdles toward final approval
Virginia moved to the brink of becoming the crucial 38th state to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment on Wednesday in what was seen as a momentous victory by women’s rights advocates, although it is far from certain the measure will be added to the U.S. Constitution.
Martin Luther King Jr. holiday schedule
In observance of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on Monday, Jan. 20, please note the following:
Mayor's State of the City address scheduled for Jan. 28
Mayor Levar M. Stoney plans to deliver his third State of the City address 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, 428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., his office announced.
Mayor withdraws proposal to change definition of 'emerging small businesses'
A proposal to redefine City Hall’s definition of “emerging small businesses” has been scrapped following a Free Press report last week highlighting the potential detriment the change could create for city-based businesses seeking city contracts.
Voting begins this week in Virginia's Democratic presidential primary
The first votes in the Democratic presidential primary in Virginia will be cast this week — 45 days before the scheduled March 3 primary election across the state.
Nonprofit regional partnership works to tackle housing affordability issues
Soaring housing costs are leaving tens of thousands of families across the Richmond region hard-pressed to pay the rent or purchase a residence.
$200M loss spurs City Council to revise real estate tax abatement program
For at least two decades, Richmond has primed the redevelopment pump by allowing individuals and companies that improve aging houses, apartment buildings and commercial properties to pay reduced property taxes over 10 years without any restrictions.
Hanover NAACP lawsuit to change names of Confederate schools continues in federal court
A federal lawsuit launched by the Hanover County Branch NAACP against the Hanover County School Board to force the board to eliminate the Confederate names of two schools is still alive following a hearing Tuesday afternoon in a Richmond federal court.
Advocates rally for prison reform bills at State Capitol
Activists, family members and supporters rallied last Saturday at the Bell Tower in Capitol Square to support prison reform bills filed recently in the General Assembly, including measures such as parole, record expungement and incentives for good behavior.
Personality: Edward G. Hamlin Jr.
Spotlight on 2019 Astorian of the Year
An award from one of Richmond’s oldest African-American organizations would be an extraordinary honor for just about anyone. For Edward Ganon Hamlin Jr., his award reaffirms his close connection to a group that has helped him “define what a man should contribute to a community organization.”
Longtime political cartoonist Ron Rogers dies at 65
Ron Rogers, a longtime political cartoonist whose start began in 1980 for the former Richmond Afro-American and Planet, died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020, after a sudden illness.
Byron E. Howlett Sr., former head of Richmond Heritage Federal Credit Union, dies at 73
Byron E. Howlett Sr. led the modernization of the Richmond Heritage Federal Credit Union during his 19 years as the second president and chief execu- tive officer of the oldest African-American financial institution still in operation in Richmond.
First female Muslim chaplain commissioned by the U.S. military
The U.S. Air Force commissioned its first Muslim woman chaplain candidate last month, marking the first time the U.S. military will have a female chaplain of the Islamic faith.
Court documents show pastor targeted by government for officiating at immigrant weddings
New documents unearthed in an ongoing federal lawsuit indicate the U.S. government surveilled and investigated a New York pastor and immigrant rights activist over allegations that she committed marriage fraud by officiating immigrant weddings along the U.S.-Mexico border.
NFL conference championships on Sunday
Of the four NFL teams in contention for the conference championship, only the Tennessee Titans have never won a Super Bowl. The Titans reached a pinnacle game in 1999, losing to the St. Louis Rams 23-16.
Diversity lip service only?
Bieniemy gets the brushoff, even under 'Rooney Rule'
Eric Bieniemy interviewed for three NFL head coaching positions this month and received the same answer from all three places — thanks, but no thanks.
John Marshall basketball team aiming for another state championship
You can make a convincing case for John Marshall High School be- ing the area basketball “Team of the Decade” — the 2010s.
VCU breaks silence on retirement of Charles 'Jabo' Wilkins' jersey
Virginia Commonwealth University officials are offering two reasons that the No. 40 jersey of the late Charles “Jabo” Wilkins likely will never hang from the rafters of the Siegel Center, the Rams’ home court.
Area events to commemorate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luher King Jr.
The life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the “Drum Major for Justice,” will be celebrated across the Metro Richmond area. While the national holiday honoring the slain civil rights leader is Monday, Jan. 20, area events will be held on several days surrounding the official holiday.
Exhibit focusing on the enslaved at Monticello to open Jan. 18 at Black History Museum
An exhibit exploring the lives of the enslaved community at Monticello and owned by Thomas Jefferson is opening Saturday, Jan. 18, at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia in Jackson Ward.
National Day of Racial Healing events to be held next week
Richmond will join in marking the National Day of Racial Healing next week with a series of events that will extend beyond the actual day, Tuesday, Jan. 21.
Niecy Nash, 'Pose' cast and others to be honored by Essence
Emmy winner Niecy Nash, the groundbreaking cast of the hit television series “Pose,” Grammy-winning music video director Melina Matsoukas and “Captain Marvel” actress Lashana Lynch will be honored at the 2020 Black Women in Hollywood Awards.
Rooted in history: Haitian influence on NOLA cuisine
Ricardo Jean-Baptiste was born in Haiti. In the United States, he became a chef. He moved to New Orleans in 2015 for a job at a large hotel that caters to tourists and conventioneers.
Following directions
Dear Reader, This edition of the Richmond Free Press begins our 28th year of publishing. Our first edition — January 16-18,1992 — hit the streets with no internet, no smart phones and very few media outlets that populate today’s media landscape.
Are you safer today? by Dr. E. Faye Williams
We have an impeached president in our country because he has done so much destruction to our country. He has even destroyed who others believe we are.
We must listen to the ancestral warriors by A. Peter Bailey
As we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday, it will be to our advantage to pay much closer attention to serious guidelines from some of our most brilliant and committed ancestral warriors.
Trump’s claims of privilege are above the law
Re Editorial “Trump, Iran and answers,” Free Press Jan. 9-11 edition: The GOP has supported Number 45 for three years in his move to destroy the country. The killing of a contractor in Iraq who made good money for working in a danger zone is not the basis for WWIII. What about the many lives of members of the military who were lost and are going to be lost?
Remembering Dr. King
The nation on Monday, Jan. 20, will celebrate the life, works and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a nation divided, angry and unsure of what to expect and what we should be doing.
Friday, January 10
Readers weigh in on Coliseum and Downtown development proposal
Re: “Thumbs down: City Council-appointed advisory commission rejects $1.5B Coliseum and Downtown redevelopment plan after 3-month review,” Free Press Dec. 26-28 edition:
Emancipation Proclamation still under attack, by Jesse L. Jackson Sr.
Jan. 1 marked the anniversary of a new America. On Jan. 1, 1863, as the Civil War approached the end of its second year, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring “that all persons held as slaves” within the rebellious states “are and henceforward shall be free.”
The next debate, by Julianne Malveaux
Democrats started this presidential campaign season with more than 20 candidates. Eventually, it dropped to about a dozen, with, so far, only five of those “qualified” to appear on the next debate stage this month.
Trump, Iran and answers
Now that President Trump has pushed America to the brink of war in the Middle East, we want answers.
Opportunity time
The 2020 Virginia General Assembly session started on Wednesday with several historic markers of note.
Johnson Publishing artwork going on auction block
Bankrupt Johnson Publishing Co., the former owner of Ebony and JET magazines, will sell off art that once decorated the company’s Chicago headquarters. Among the art to be auctioned Jan. 30 at a New York gallery will be paintings, sculptures and other works from 75 African-American artists.
Local premiere of 'The Unity Ride' on Jan. 16
“The Unity Ride,” a new documentary from Richmond’s Soulidifly Productions about two cyclists traveling an old slave escape route on the Underground Railroad, is to premiere 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, 428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., it has been announced.
Golden Globes so white? Critics blast lack of diversity among winners
The 2020 Golden Globe Awards, presented Sunday by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, drew criticism this week for its lack of winners of color.
Ben Stanley steps up for Hampton Pirates
When Jermaine Marrow went down, Hampton University needed a volunteer to step up. Ben Stanley was the first to raise his hand.
VUU takes its game on the road
Keshon Tabb, a law-abiding citizen by nature, transforms into a pickpocket once he laces up his basketball sneakers.
Petersburg's Frank Mason III playing for call up to Bucks' active roster
Frank Mason III is dribbling down the comeback trail with the desired final destination only 88 miles away. The former Petersburg High School and University of Kansas basketball sensation is suiting up for the Wisconsin Herd of the NBA G-League.
Local athletes to share NFL playoff spotlight
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson isn’t the only local athlete making headlines in the NFL playoffs.
Faith leaders call for de-escalation after missile strike kills Iranian general
Concern about the growing tensions between the United States and Iran has been bubbling within the Vatican, as Pope Francis and other faith leaders urge global leaders to employ self-restraint and dialogue.
50 years after 'Black Manifesto,' religious groups again take up reparations
On a Sunday morning in May 1969, as clergy processed into the sanctuary of New York’s august Riverside Church, civil rights activist James Forman vaulted into the pulpit to demand $500 million in reparations for the mistreatment of African-Americans from white churches and synagogues.
Former Richmonder Beatrice O. Scott dies at 77
Former Richmonder Beatrice Odom Scott went off to Baltimore where she earned recognition for her roles in education, political and neighborhood affairs.
Personality: Dr. Rodney P. Gaines
Most college professors start their spring semesters re-energized from the holiday break with memories of family gatherings and stories of whirlwind vacations. Dr. Rodney Perry Gaines is heading back to Hampton University with something quite unique under his belt: The titles of Mr. Universe won in December during the American Natural Bodybuilding Federation’s Natural Universe Championship in Key West, Fla.
Rep. McEachin holds student essay contest
Congressman A. Donald McEachin of Richmond is sponsoring a Black History Month essay contest for middle and high school students living in Virginia’s 4th Congressional District.
De-concentration of poverty to be topic of public discussion Jan. 16
“What does de-concentration of poverty look like? What impact will disbanding neighborhoods of concentrated poverty have on public safety?”
Richmond to lower natural gas prices
A yearlong sag in the wholesale price of natural gas will finally show up on the bills of residential and business customers in Richmond.
Federal appeals panel halts Dominion pipeline compressor station in Buckingham County
Dominion Energy has been blocked from building a key element of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline in a historic African-American community in rural Buckingham County.
'Bunching' problem plaguing Pulse service
The Pulse’s reputation for fast, reliable service has begun to take a hit, with the potential to undermine the public transit company’s ability to get more people to skip their cars and take the bus.
Mayor seeks to change definition of emerging small business
For more than 15 years, City Hall has sought to use its purchasing power to boost start-up and fledgling companies, often with minority ownership, that generally bring in less than $500,000 a year in revenue and have 10 or fewer employees.
Councilman Chris Hilbert not seeking re-election
One of the longest serving members on Richmond City Council plans to call it quits and not seek re-election, the Free Press has learned.
Richmond School Board elects new officers
The Richmond School Board has two former educators leading the board for 2020.
Va. General Assembly starts on historic note
The General Assembly was gaveled into a potentially history-making session Wednesday with Democrats in control of both houses and eager to usher in changes that will make it easier for Virginians to vote, reduce the barriers they face in renting and increase the minimum pay they receive for working.
City Council takes step to control Confederate statues
The Richmond City Council took its first step toward control over the statues of the slavery-defending Confederate traitors that line Monument Avenue and have long sat on other public property in the city.
In deep: IRS filings show Dominion Energy committed $20M over 20 years for naming rights for a new Coliseum
Dominion Energy is more entwined in the $1.5 billion Coliseum replacement and Downtown redevelopment proposal than previously disclosed.
Crowd urged to work for 'Monumental Justice'
More than 100 people gathered at the State Capitol on Wednesday afternoon in support of legislation that would give control of the dozens of Confederate monuments in Virginia to localities.
Thursday, January 2
Congressman John Lewis fighting biggest battle: Pancreatic cancer
Messages of support are pouring in for Congressman John Lewis, known as “the conscience of the Congress,” following his announcement Sunday that he is facing a foe like none before: Advanced pancreatic cancer.
Hearing Jan. 14 on Hanover NAACP suit to rename Confederate schools
The fate of a federal lawsuit brought by the Hanover County Branch NAACP in a bid to force the Hanover County School Board to rename two schools currently named for Confederate leaders could be decided on Jan. 14.
2020 Vision
Mayor Stoney reflects on his accomplishments of the past 3 years, his goals for the final year of his term and prospects for re-election
Mayor Levar M. Stoney is heading into 2020 confident that Richmond voters will reward him with another four years based on his accomplishments.
Cityscape
Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
Residents enjoy their new apartment building in the Armstrong Renaissance complex that has replaced Armstrong High School in the 1600 block of North 31st St.
Lizzo named Entertainer of the Year
Eight-time Grammy nominee Lizzo has more accolades she can add to her resume.
Looking back at 2019
The past 12 months have seen a lot of highs and lows, with the Richmond Free Press there documenting events and life in and around Richmond.
The past 12 months have seen a lot of highs and lows, with the Richmond Free Press there documenting events and life in and around Richmond. Photographers have captured through their work many of those ups and downs — from the newly named Arthur Ashe Boulevard to blackface and sex scandals that struck the state’s top three officials. Here are photos of some of the highlights of 2019.
Help for those facing evicion by Osita Iroegbu
Commentary
During the past several months, the Mayor’s Office has communicated with dozens of individuals and families potentially facing evictions.
Placing profits over people by Julianne Malveaux
Columnists
Who would have thought that amid the Christmas holidays we would learn that billionaire Democratic presidential candidate Michael Bloomberg is using convicted prisoners to make calls for his campaign?
Trump's 'revolution' is destroying America by Jesse L. Jackson Sr.
Columnists
As the U.S. House of Representatives has voted to impeach President Trump, it is time for reflection.
Community forum Jan. 7 on the past, present and future of black business
“Can We Get Down to (Black) Business?” is the title of a community conversation at The Valentine from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, at the museum, 1015 E. Clay St., it has been announced.
Richmond Public Library opens exhibit, 'Evicted in Richmond," on Friday
The Richmond Public Library’s Main Branch in Downtown is hosting a new exhibit on one of the city’s biggest problems — evictions.
'What is your wish for the new year?'
As we ring in 2020, many people are looking forward to the new year with a sense of hope and increased opportunity. The Richmond Free Press took to the street to ask Richmond area residents: “What is
As we ring in 2020, many people are looking forward to the new year with a sense of hope and increased opportunity. The Richmond Free Press took to the street to ask Richmond area residents: “What is your wish for the New Year?” Here are their answers:
Detroit Pistons' Andre Drummond heading for another rebounding title
Andre Drummond is building a case to be recognized as the NBA’s top rebounder of the 21st century.
Coach Scott renews contract at NSU
Football Coach Latrell Scott has signed a new two-year contract at Norfolk State University.
Former St. Christopher's players making impact on college teams
College basketball players from Richmond’s St. Christopher’s School are popping up all over.
VCU silent on questions about 'Jabo' Wilkins' retired jersey and number
Silence. That’s the response from Virginia Commonwealth University to several Free Press inquiries on what happened to the formal recognition for one of its greatest basketball players, the late Charles “Jabo” Wilkins.
K'Von Wallace playing for a national win for Clemson
A local athlete figures to have a large say in who be- comes the next NCAA football champion.
Latest spate of religious violence again raises safety questions
People across the nation were grappling with a spate of religious violence that struck at a rabbi’s New York home Saturday during a Hanukkah celebration and erupted at a North Texas church on Sunday.
Personality: Savon Shelton Sampson
Spotlight on president of the Junior League of Richmond
As 2020 begins, Savon Shelton Sampson is readying for an “exciting” new year serving as president of the Junior League of Richmond.
New chair for School Board?
The Richmond School Board could start the new year with a new chair at the helm.
Area Christmas tree disposal, recycling sites announced
Now that the holiday has come and gone, Christmas tree recycling has begun in the Richmond area. The Richmond Department of Public Works has announced it will pick up trees left curbside or by Supercans through Friday, Jan. 10.
GRTC official: No money for transfer station proposed by Navy Hil
GRTC lacks the funding to develop and operate the modern transfer center that is part of the $1.5 billion city and Navy Hill District Corp. plan to replace the Richmond Coliseum and develop nearby blocks, according to the bus company.
Shootings and homicides up in city, but major crime down 3% from 2018
Sixty people as of noon Dec. 31, were fatally shot, bludgeoned or knifed to death in Richmond in 2019, according to city Police Department statistics.
Richmond Police fine-tuning new crime data system to help public
Local police departments have long kept a tight grip on their information, only grudgingly releasing crime statistics and usually keeping data on officer activity off limits to taxpayers. But the Richmond Police Department is taking a different tack.
Second Amendment sanctuary push aims to defy new gun laws
A standing-room-only crowd of more than 400 packed the meeting room, filled the lobby and spilled into the parking lot recently in rural Buckingham County. They had one thing on their minds: Guns.
Foremost wishes for the new year
With the start of 2020, the Richmond Free Press invited select state and local officials to share their foremost wishes for the new year. Here are their responses:
With the start of 2020, the Richmond Free Press invited select state and local officials to share their foremost wishes for the new year. Here are their responses:
14 candidates make Dems presidential primary ballot in Va
All 14 Democrats who filed to run in Virginia’s March 3 Democratic presidential primary made the ballot, according to the Virginia Department of Elections.
Explanations sought on City Council's consulting contract cost
When a divided Richmond City Council voted 5-4 on Dec. 9 to proceed with hiring C.H. Johnson Consulting to review the $1.5 billion Richmond Coliseum replacement plan, most members had no idea that the company’s bid had come in 13 percent higher than the amount council had approved to pay a consultant.
VUU announces $5,000 tuition cut
Virginia Union University will cut the yearly cost of undergraduate tuition by $5,000 beginning next fall in an apparent bid to attract more students and end a quiet, but dramatic two-year drop in enrollment.
What drives black consumer spending? Nielsen thinks it knows
African-American consumers want more for themselves and from corporate America, and they express it with their dollars as they move through the consumer journey from brand awareness to purchase, according to Nielsen’s 2019 Diverse Intelligence Series Report on African-Americans.
