Saturday, October 31
Deadline for in-person early voting Saturday, Oct.31
Voting information
The presidential election, as well as contests for U.S. Senate, Congress, Richmond City Council and Richmond School Board, will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Thursday, October 29
Construction of new city schools didn’t meet deadline, goal for minority participation
Richmond has built three new school buildings, but can teachers and students use them if the School Board decides to restart in-person learning?
Virginia Department of Education stepping up its monitoring after critical federal report
Richmond and other local public school divisions will face more oversight of their special education programs from the Virginia Department of Education.
VMI superintendent resigns after probe ordered of ‘ongoing structural racism’
The superintendent of Virginia Military Institute resigned Mon- day, a week after Gov. Ralph S. Northam and other state officials ordered an investigation into what they characterized as a culture of “ongoing structural racism” at the college.
Gray still questions cost of taking statues down
City Councilwoman Kim B. Gray, who is challenging Mayor Levar M. Stoney for the city’s top elected job, said this week that the Associated Press interview with contractor Devon Henry has not changed her view that an investigation is needed into the $1.8 million contract he received to remove the city’s Confederate statues from Monument Avenue and other public property in early July.
Black contractor braved threats in removing Confederate statues
Devon Henry paced in nervous anticipation because this was a project like nothing he’d ever done. He wore the usual hard hat — and a bulletproof vest.
4 state schools fail four or more SCHEV performance measures
Smaller enrollments of in-state students and lower than projected graduation rates are among the main reasons that Virginia State and Norfolk State universities got failing grades on most of the performance measures set by the State Council of Higher Education, according to a report released Monday.
Need a ride to the polls?
With early voting ending Saturday, Oct. 31, several local organizations are increasing get-out-the-vote efforts to get people to the polls.
Prince Harry says ignorance no excuse for unconscious bias
Britain’s Prince Harry says it took him many years and the experience of living with his wife, Meghan Markle, to understand how his privileged upbringing shielded him from the reality of unconscious bias.
Bring it down
Judge rules that Gov. Northam has authority to take down towering statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee on Monument Avenue
Virginia is finally washing its hands of Robert E. Lee, 150 years after his death.
Deadline for in-person early voting Saturday, Oct. 31
Voting information
The presidential election, as well as contests for U.S. Senate, Congress, Richmond City Council and Richmond School Board, will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
New single-family homes, townhouses to be developed in Highland Grove
It has taken seven years, but a long-awaited mixed-income subdivision is being launched in the Highland Grove community in North Side.
RPS expands mental health services for students through ChildSavers
Richmond Public Schools has expanded the ChildSavers program to Thomas C. Boushall Middle, George W. Carver Elementary and J.H. Blackwell Elementary schools, offering more students access to mental health services.
ELECTION 2020: Voters are asked to decide on 2 state constitutional amendments
Two state constitutional amendments are on every Virginia voter’s ballot along with candidates seeking office.
ELECTION 2020: U.S. Senate and congressional races also on the ballot
While the 2020 presidential election has dominated the headlines, the races for U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives also could prove important for the future of national politics.
ELECTION 2020: Six contested races taking place for Richmond School Board
The Richmond School Board will change after Nov. 3, with three current board members deciding not to seek re-election. Four incumbents also are facing challengers.
ELECTION 2020: Contests for City Council seats being waged in all but 2 districts
Richmond City Council is guaranteed to have at least two new members sworn in next year, with a potential for additional newcomers depending on the outcome of the five contested races that voters will decide on Election Day.
Gray ‘has articulated sound plans’
I love our iconic city. That is why I want the best person to lead it. That person is unquestionably Kim B. Gray.
Stoney ‘has a vision for our city’
Local government is tough. No leader is perfect. But Mayor Levar M. Stoney has led us through difficult times and managed government well with the resources available.
School Board choices
Like four years ago, the Richmond School Board will experience some turnover this election with three open seats.
City Council choices
Richmond City Council has had a full plate during the last four years dealing with issues and proposals ranging from the $1.5 billion Navy Hill Development Corp. Coliseum and Downtown development plan to an increase in the city meals tax to fund the construction of three new schools.
Abigail A. Spanberger for Congress
We endorse Rep. Abigail A. Spanberger of Henrico County for a second term in the U.S. House of Representatives representing the 7th District.
A. Donald McEachin for Congress
We strongly endorse 4th District Congressman A. Donald McEachin of Richmond for re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives.
Mark R. Warner for U.S. Senate
U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner has served the people of Virginia aptly and ably since first being elected to the Senate in November 2008. He has kept fidelity to our community since he was governor of Virginia from 2002 to 2006.
Trunk or Treat canceled
The annual Halloween Trunk or Treat sponsored by the Richmond Sheriff’s Office is another casualty of the pandemic.
Richmond EMT and new American Doll face to be grand marshal of 37th Annual Christmas Parade
A Richmond woman who spends her days saving lives will be the grand marshal of the 37th Annual Richmond Christmas Parade, it has been announced.
Lewis Hamilton claims all-time win record in Formula One racing
Lewis Hamilton is the all-time leader of the pack for Formula One Grand Prix racing.
LaMelo Ball to be among top picks in NBA draft
LaMelo LaFrance Ball has a catchy name, a wealth of talent and a story like none other.
NSU to start football in February with slim schedule
A MEAC championship and a berth in the NCAA playoffs are among the goals for Norfolk State University football team during a delayed season.
Woman’s obituary: In lieu of flowers, ‘do not vote for Trump’
An obituary for a Minneapolis-area woman who died at age 93 included one specific request for her mourners: Do not vote for President Trump.
First Black student at R-MC shares honor with former college president
Randolph-Macon College has honored its first African-American student and its 13th president by naming a new academic building after them — Payne Hall.
Liberty University undefeated with QB Malik Willis
Fueled by an abundance of Black talent, Liberty University is exploring new football frontiers.
Pope makes D.C. archbishop first Black cardinal in U.S.
Washington D.C. Archbishop Wilton Gregory is now the first Black U.S. prelate to assume the rank of cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church, a historic appointment that comes months after nationwide demonstrations against racial injustice.
Personality: Luise ‘Cheezi’ Farmer
Spotlight on board chair of Diversity Richmond
Being elected to lead a group in the midst of a pandemic would be a sizable burden for anyone. But for Luise “Cheezi” Farmer, board chair of Diversity Richmond, it’s a welcome opportunity to show her commitment to the cause and a sign of how much her role is valued.
ELECTION 2020: Will a winner prevail in mayor’s race or will there be a runoff?
Will there be an outright winner or a runoff election?
Students say protests motivating them to vote
Voters are more divided now than they were in the 2016 election, according to a recent poll by the Pew Research Center. Many young Virginians believe the passion could translate to the polls on Election Day.
Thursday, October 22
Stacey Abrams’ zeal for activism began with preacher parents
Stacey Abrams, the former Georgia House minority leader who lost a razor-thin race for governor in 2018, voted on Oct. 15, driving her ballot to a local drop box.
NFL Hall of Famer Fred Dean dies at 68
Fred Dean, the relentless defensive end who helped the San Francisco 49ers win two Super Bowl titles, died Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020, of complications from the coronavirus. He was 68.
Impact of attending Million Man March 25 years ago still felt today
Twenty-five years ago on Oct. 16, 1995, an estimated 1 million African-American men from across the United States descended on the Washington Mall for the historic Million Man March.
World Series gets underway with L.A. Dodgers-Tampa Bay Rays matchup
Entering this postseason, Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers was an established marquee attrac- tion, a leading man if ever there was one.
Online sessions to highlight Weekend of Mourning on Oct. 23 and 24
With gun violence occurring regularly in Richmond, members of Richmonders Involved to Strengthen Our Communities, or RISC, are collaborating with Temple Beth-El for a two-day Weekend of Mourning to reflect on the lives lost, pray for those affected and to call for meaningful action by city leaders.
Lawyer who successfully argued Loving case legalizing interracial marriage dies
Bernard S. Cohen, who won a landmark case that led to the U.S. Supreme Court’s rejection of laws forbidding interracial marriage and later went on to a successful political career as a state legislator, has died. He was 86.
Joe Biden for president and U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris for vice president
Competent. It’s not a flashy word or a flashy concept. But it best describes Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden.
Dr. Irving P. McPhail, president of St. Augustine’s University, dies from COVID-19 complications
Dr. Irving P. McPhail, president of St. Augustine’s University, died Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020, of complications from COVID-19, just three months after taking the helm of the historically Black university in Raleigh, N.C.
Election officials encourage voters to report problems, irregularities
Chesterfield resident Clarence Lee, 90, has been an active voter since the 1950s. He was planning to vote in person on Nov. 3.
’Relentless racism’: Probe ordered of VMI after news report of racist incidents
State officials have ordered an outside investigation into the Virginia Military Institute following a report in The Washington Post that described Black cadets and alumni as facing “relentless racism.”
Get out the vote efforts step up this weekend
Local organizations and advocacy groups are ramping up efforts to energize voters and get people to the polls in the final days before Election Day.
Deadline to request absentee ballot Friday, Oct. 23
Voting information
The presidential election, as well as contests for U.S. Senate, Congress, Richmond City Council and Richmond School Board, will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Absenteeism up in Richmond schools during pandemic
The coronavirus is causing a significant increase in absenteeism among Richmond Public Schools students.
Richmond judge during hearing to remove Lee statue: ‘It’s a very difficult case’
The General Assembly appears to have torn away the foundation of a lawsuit seeking to stop Gov. Ralph S. Northam from removing the statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from Monument Avenue — the giant symbol of white supremacy that has loomed over the city since 1890.
Confederate Avenue to be renamed
U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine and his wife, Anne Holton, soon will no longer live on Confederate Avenue.
General Assembly completes work on budget, criminal justice reform
Fairer sentencing for people convicted of crimes and a Marcus crisis alert system to improve the response to mental health emergencies are among the criminal justice reforms that have emerged from the General Assembly’s special session.
George Wythe High School replacement may get new life with expected announcement
City Hall is poised to move faster to replace George Wythe High School in South Side, the Free Press has learned.
Catholic Diocese of Richmond to pay $6.2M to sexual abuse victims
The Catholic Diocese of Richmond announced last week that it is paying $6.3 million to 51 people who experienced sexual abuse as minors by clergy.
50 homeless people aided under city’s new shelter plan during weekend cold snap
City Hall appears to have succeeded in sheltering the homeless in the first test of its new model to assist people when the temperature plunges.
City Council committee blocks mayor’s dedicated fund plan for affordable housing
A City Council committee has quietly blocked Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s plan to earmark millions of dollars flowing into the general fund to aid development of lower-cost apartments and homes.
Signs honoring Dr. Charles K. Price to be unveiled Oct. 23
The Cannon Creek Greenway, a cycling and pedestrian trail runs along the Richmond-Henrico Turnpike in North Side, will have new signs to honor Dr. Charles K. Price for the major role the retired educator played in the trail’s creation.
Richmond Police revise details on time, location of incident in which detectives indicted
The Richmond Police Department has revised its official statement about the time and location of the incident that led to the indictment of two detectives after the Richmond Free Press raised questions about the initial statement.
Franklin County elementary schoolteacher named Virginia’s 2021 Teacher of the Year
Virginia’s 2021 Teacher of the Year credits his fourth-grade teacher for helping him through the trauma of being put into foster care as a child and remaining a mentor to him throughout his childhood in Danville.
Virginia’s first medical cannabis dispensary opens in Bristol
Virginia’s first medical cannabis dispensary has officially opened to patients.
More Virginia colleges scrap traditional spring break
A growing number of Virginia colleges are announcing that spring break will be canceled or modified in an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Personality: Deborah D. Jackson
Spotlight on treasurer of Sisters Network Central Virginia
In 2008, Deborah D. Jackson was part of a door-to-door campaign to help educate women in the city’s underserved neighborhoods about breast health. That was part of the annual Gift for Life Block Walk conducted by the Sisters Network Central Virginia, a breast cancer survivorship organization of African-American women.
ELECTION 2020: School Board candidates outline plans
I decided to become a candidate for the Richmond School Board because:
ELECTION 2020: City Council candidates tell their plans
I decided to become a candidate for Richmond City Council because:
ELECTION 2020: 5 candidates for Richmond mayor share vision
I decided to run for election for Richmond mayor because:
ELECTION 2020: 7th District incumbent faces GOP challenge for Congressional seat
I decided to run for re-election to Congress because:
ELECTION 2020: Incumbents for U.S. Senate and House of Representatives face challengers
I decided to become a candidate for U.S. Senate because:
ELECTION 2020: Voting is power
The future leadership of our nation and our city will be decided in the Tuesday, Nov. 3, general election.
Current White House occupant not fit for re-election
People here in Virginia and in other states are saying that Democratic presidental candidate Joe Biden is not fit to be elected president.
Liberate Washington!
During the era of World War II, there was bipartisan agreement in America on one simple, unavoidable, indisput- able fact — the only good Nazi is a dead Nazi.
‘Stop voting for Democrats’
The rampage of shootings in Richmond has caused horrific damage to families and neighborhoods. In August and September, there were a total of 502 shootings in Richmond. Many of these had multiple victims, including fatalities. The problem is out of control.
Why I am supporting Joe Biden
I’ve taken deep pride in my job during the past 20 years as a home care worker. The essential care I’ve provided to my clients — taking them to doctor appointments, reminding them to take their medication, shopping for groceries, assisting with bathing and meals — has helped them to live at home with independence and dignity.
Levar M. Stoney for mayor
Richmond is at a crossroads — brought to this point by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the summer of protests calling for racial justice after George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis and capped by the removal of the racist Confederate statues that have weighed our city down for far too long.
’Empire’ star Taraji P. Henson hailed for mental health work
“Empire” star Taraji P. Henson has enjoyed wealth, celebrity, a Golden Globe win and an Academy Award nomination. But behind the scenes, she has battled anxiety and depression.
Juneteenth now officially a state holiday
Juneteenth officially has become a state holiday after lawmakers unanimously approved legislation during the Virginia General Assembly’s special session.
Chester’s Chris Tyree making big plays as Notre Dame’s featured tailback
Chris Tyree is a local athlete earning a national reputation.
Willie Lanier launches ‘Honey Bear Project’ to upgrade athletic fields at HBCUs
NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Wil- lie Lanier, a graduate of Maggie L. Walker High School, has launched an initiative to install modern artifi- cial playing surfaces at nearly three dozen HBCUs.
Thursday, October 15
Judge Barrett nomination fight leaves progressive Catholics feeling unseen
Elizabeth Ajiduah took to Twitter in late September, ask- ing progressive and LGBTQ- friendly Catholics to come forward.
Voter registration deadline extended through Oct. 15
Virginians have until 11:59 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15 to register to vote because of a 48- hour extension negotiated in court after the state’s online voter registration system went down Tuesday because of an accidentally severed cable.
Another case of inequity?
2 people rob the same SunTrust Bank but sentences different as black and white
Two people robbed the same SunTrust Bank branch in Hanover County four years apart.
Judge Barrett’s confirmation to U.S. Supreme Court expected to sail through Senate
Anti-abortion Judge Amy Coney Barrett is on her way to a seat on the U.S. Supreme Court.
Gov. Northam alleged target of anti-government militia group
Gov. Ralph S. Northam is calling on President Trump to stop encouraging extremists after an FBI agent disclosed in a Grand Rapids, Mich., courtroom Tuesday that Virginia’s chief executive had been mentioned as a potential target for abduction by a paramilitary group under arrest for conspiring to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Personality: P. Muzi Branch
Spotlight on president of the Black American Artists Alliance of Richmond
While COVID-19 has led to theaters and performance ven- ues closing around the world, those in the arts have worked to adapt to this new paradigm. That includes members of the Black American Artists Alliance of Richmond.
Rev. Delores R. Seay, associate minister at Triumphant Baptist Church, dies at 86
The Rev. Delores McFadden Robinson Seay, an associate minister at Triumphant Baptist Church who devoted herself to volunteer service at the church and in the community for decades, has died.
South Side pastor withstands termination vote
Dr. Michael A. Sanders remains the pastor of historic Mt. Olive Baptist Church in South Side.
L.A. Lakers win 17th NBA crown, with James claiming 4th Finals MVP award
If LeBron James ever wants to make a case for being the NBA’s greatest ever, he might submit the video of Game 6 of the 2020 NBA Finals as compelling evidence.
Local filmmaker delves into issue of domestic violence
Local filmmaker Chandra Broadnax-Payne tackles the issue of domestic violence in her documentary, “A Silent Enemy,” that premieres this weekend.
Jamaicans in Florida energized by Sen. Harris on 2020 ticket
President Trump and Joe Biden are entering the final stretch of the campaign in a fierce battle for Latino voters who could sway the results in Florida and determine who wins the White House.
Princeton names dorm for Black alumna
The residential hall at Princeton University that was named for Woodrow Wilson will be rebuilt and named for a Black woman who is an alumna of the school and a donor.
JPMorgan puts $30B toward fixing banking’s ‘systemic racism’
JPMorgan Chase announced last week that it will extend bil- lions in loans to Black and Latino homebuyers and small business owners in an expanded effort toward fixing what the bank calls “systemic racism’” in the country’s economic system.
Deadline to request absentee ballot Friday, Oct. 23
Voting information
The presidential election, as well as contests for U.S. Senate, Congress, Richmond City Council and Richmond School Board, will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Who should replace Confederate Robert E. Lee in U.S. Capitol representing Va.?
Maggie L. Walker. Virginia Randolph. Booker T. Washington. Barbara Johns. Pocahontas. Chief Powhatan. Edgar Allan Poe.
Northams out of isolation
After spending 18 days in isolation following a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, Gov. Ralph S. Northam appeared for the first time in public, speak- ing at a press briefing Tuesday afternoon.
General Assembly passes police reform measures
Smaller steps. Eight weeks into a special session, that appears to be the General Assembly’s approach in dealing with issues, including police reform.
City Council authorizes use of $500,000 of $18.9M surplus for COVID-19 relief
Richmond City Council on Wednesday informally agreed to steer $500,000 from a ballooning surplus into a COVID-19 relief fund, with a potential for the money to provide emergency aid for city residents in desperate circumstances.
VSU opens John Mercer Langston Institute for African-American Political Leadership
Virginia State University is opening a new institute to prepare, cultivate and empower African-Americans for political leadership across the state.
Henrico pulls funding for prosecutor dedicated to probing police misconduct
Shannon Taylor, Henrico County’s top prosecutor, has dropped her plan to hire the first deputy prosecutor in Virginia who would specialize in investigating police misconduct after Henrico County pulled its share of the funding.
City moves to reacquire portion of unmarked Black cemetery at Shockoe Hill
The city’s leadership is moving to reverse a nearly 130-year effort to eliminate a major Black cemetery.
Nasal flush possibly remedy to fight off coronavirus?
Photographer and home builder Robert Liverman has become an unlikely crusader for a method he believes people can use to help protect themselves from COVID-19 — daily rins- ing their noses.
Clinical trial takes place locally for COVID-19 vaccine
With more than 216,000 deaths and more than 7.8 million people infected from COVID-19, work continues to produce a vaccine, including in Virginia, which is part of a new clinical trial.
Concern rises about COVID-19 cases among Va. inmates
Lawmakers, advocates and inmates are demand- ing answers and new solutions to the rising cases of COVID-19 among inmates and staff in Virginia’s prisons and jails.
Va. company switches from e-cigarettes to manufacturing PPE
A Virginia-based company that makes disposable face masks and surgical masks plans to create 180 jobs and invest $5.3 million to grow its operations in the area.
Hanover County School Board gives final approval to new school names
The Hanover County School Board approved new names for the former Confederate Stonewall Middle School and Lee-Davis High School during a meeting Tuesday night.
Mellon Foundation to provide $250M to help communities create new monuments
Suddenly there is a new source of funding that might help Richmond create replacement monuments for the white supremacist Confederates that have been taken down from Monument Avenue and other city sites.
MLB Hall of Famer Joe Morgan dies at 77
Baseball Hall of Famer Joe Morgan, a key component of Cincinnati’s Big Red Machine in the 1970s, died Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020.
’The Secret Lives of Church Ladies’ is finalist for National Book Award
For years, Deesha Philyaw, a Pittsburgh writer, editor and writing coach, has gradually crafted stories about church ladies — but these are not the stories you’d likely hear sitting in the pew of a Black church.
Seattle Storm sweeps Las Vegas Aces to claim WNBA championship
Three time zones away, the Seattle Storm found home sweet home in “The Bubble.”
MLB playoff teams battling it out for a place in the World Series
It’s time for popcorn, peanuts and playoffs.
Petersburg Symphony Orchestra to host two fall ensemble concerts
The Petersburg Symphony Orchestra is hosting two fall ensemble concerts for smaller, in-person audiences that will be livestreamed to the public.
Amy Coney Barrett
We have been disgusted, but not surprised by Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s evasive maneuvering during this week’s Senate confirmation hearings.
Politicians can stop police killings, by Ben Jealous
Millions of Americans have come out in big cities and small towns to protest the killings of unarmed civilians — often Black people — at the hands of law enforcement. If we want our demands for justice and accountability to lead to real policy change, we need to build on that activism by electing public officials with the commitment to reform law enforcement and the courage to act when police abuse the power of their badge.
Monsters are scary – so are brilliant Black women, by Julianne Malveaux
I was frightened of monsters when I was a child. Not so sure why, but my brother, who loved to plague me, used to tell me they were lurking under my bed. I shook and I shivered, and I cried for fear that one of those dreaded monsters would rise from under the bed to strangle me.
FBI ready to help protect election
America’s elections are the foundation of our democracy and protecting them is a top FBI priority.
‘Get Richmond Working’ initiative would help eliminate disparities
Seeing construction cranes in Richmond is nothing out of the ordinary, but the ones that appeared in the wake of George Floyd’s death stood out from the rest.
Farmers to Families Food Box Program greatly helping area households
Thanks goes out to the many churches, ministries and other nonprofit organiza- tions that distribute food boxes to the needy.
Thursday, October 8
Between hope and despair, by Julianne Malveaux
Black people occupy a place between hope and despair.
The difference
The past week has shown us a major difference in how two top elected officials have handled the coronavirus.
Civil rights heritage trail adds 12 new sites with focus on education
The half-mile road leading to a park in Prince Edward County was packed with cars parked on one side and a park ranger directing traffic on the other side. This was a normal 1950s summer day at what was then the only state park for African-Americans in Virginia.
MBL hosts 10th Annual Women Who Mean Business Summit on Oct. 8
The Metropolitan Business League is holding its10th Annual Women Who Mean Business Summit from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8.
‘Sweet Lou’ Johnson, who played 14 years with the L.A. Dodgers, dies at 86
Louis Brown “Sweet Lou” Johnson, so nicknamed because of his infectious smile and friendly habit of clapping his hands, died Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020.
The 1964 St. Louis Cardinals team was bright with stars
The recent deaths of baseball Hall of Famers Lou Brock and Bob Gibson stirred memories of the 1964 St. Louis Cardinals team for which they so brilliantly played.
Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo snags NBA’s MVP Award, plus some
The Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo is a double dipper when it comes to awards.
Jimmy Butler pours on the Heat, taking the NBA Finals to Game 5
There will be a Game 5 Friday night, Oct. 9, in the NBA Finals. The Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler saw to that.
Alabama governor apologizes to 1963 church bombing survivor
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has apologized to a survivor of a racist 1963 church bombing that killed four Black girls, calling the blast an “egregious injustice.” But the governor declined on Sept. 30 to pay restitution without legislative involvement.
Trump evangelical advisers exposed to COVID-19 flout CDC guidelines, preach in public
At least two faith leaders, including one of President Trump’s unofficial evangelical advisers, have tested positive for COVID-19 after attending a White House Rose Garden ceremony and a separate evangelical gathering in Wash- ington.
Plans in the works to create several 24-hour homeless shelters
Frizzell Stephens wishes he had a roof over his head.
16th Annual Richmond Folk Festival comes alive virtually Oct. 9 through 11
The 16th Annual Richmond Folk Festival, a celebration of music and culture from around the globe, will take place virtually Oct. 9 through 11.
Walter E. Baker Sr., partner in the former Baker & Dyson painting and contracting company, dies at 92
For more than 40 years, Walter Edward Baker Sr. partnered with his friend Lynwood M. Dyson Sr. on home improvement projects in Richmond.
Personality: Genevieve A. Roberts
Spotlight on board president of YWCA Richmond
The presence of COVID-19 hasn’t slowed down YWCA Richmond, which is preparing to celebrate 40 years of recognizing women leaders in education, volunteerism and more with its Outstanding Women Awards on Friday, Oct. 16.
RPS program aims to bring stability, academic success to homeless students and their families
For Demeka Artis and her three children, home was, for more than a year, bouncing from hotel to hotel and worrying about food and paying bills.
New housing hotline opens to connect people, resources
A new hotline is accepting calls to help people get information about housing faster and more conveniently, it has been announced.
Judge rules against Sa’ad El-Amin entering Lee statue lawsuit
“Black lives still don’t matter,” former Richmond City Councilman Sa’ad El-Amin said as he left a Richmond courtroom last Friday.
Theft at area mailboxes under investigation
Postal and law enforcement officials are investigating a series of mailbox break-ins and thefts outside six area post offices.
Candidates chip away at Mayor Stoney’s record during Chamber RVA forum
Candidates vying to unseat Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney in November’s general election tried to chip away at his record during a candidates forum Tuesday night sponsored by Chamber RVA.
Energizing voters
With less than 30 days until Election Day, efforts are in full swing to encourage Virginians to register and vote in the presidential election.
Deadline to register to vote Oct. 13
Voting information
The presidential election, as well as contests for U.S. Senate, Congress, Richmond City Council and Richmond School Board, will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Richmond Police detectives indicted on misdemeanor charges
The Richmond Police Department appears to have largely dodged a legal bullet from the actions of its officers during the spate of protests over police brutality and racial injustice during late spring.
Gov. Northam remains in isolation after COVID-19 symptoms emerge
Gov. Ralph S. Northam and First Lady Pamela Northam remain in isolation for the coronavirus this week in the Executive Mansion after the governor, who was asymptomatic after first testing positive for COVID-19, developed symptoms over the weekend.
Bottom of the pack
Richmond Public Schools’ on-time graduation rate still lowest in state
Richmond Public Schools continues to generate more dropouts and produce fewer graduates in four years than virtually any other school division in Virginia, according to the latest yearly report from the state Department Education.
Day care options opening for student virtual instruction
More lower cost day care options are starting to emerge for Richmond Public Schools students to attend virtual classes and relieving parents who must work or who feel ill-equipped to double as teachers.
What’s at stake, by Ben Jealous
The Republicans’ rush to fill the vacant U.S. Supreme Court seat before the Nov. 3 election is a terrible threat to Black people’s civil rights and the health of our communities.
Thursday, October 1
Personality: Judith ‘Judy’ W. Pahren
Spotlight on board president of ChildSavers
In the lingering aftermath of the 1918 flu pandemic, Children’s Memorial Clinic was established in 1924 in response to the growing need for accessible mental health services for children who were born into or lived through the chaos and upset resulting from the virus. Today, nearly a century later and in the midst of another pandemic that has claimed the lives of more than 3,100 Virginians, the Children’s Memorial Clinic is now ChildSavers, which has stepped up to meet the challenges of the current pandemic head on under board President Judith “Judy” Pahren.
Struck by COVID-19, Gov. and Mrs. Northam are seeing state’s response system up close
As Gov. Ralph S. Northam and his wife, First Lady Pamela Northam, remain in isolation until early next week after testing positive on Sept. 24 for COVID-19, officials in seven different health districts in the state are working to connect with scores of people the couple may have had contact with in the days before their diagnoses.
Mayor introduces plan to boost affordable housing
For at least 25 years, City Hall has offered a tax abatement program that has spurred improvements and upgrades to at least 7,500 aging homes and apartment buildings in exchange for seven years of reduced real estate taxes.
Madman
First 2020 presidential debate is derailed by President Trump’s rantings, falsehoods and interruptions of Democratic candidate Joe Biden
In a debate performance that left even his Republican supporters shaking their heads, President Trump stunningly refused to condemn racist, white supremacist groups.
More civic engagement is needed before Broad Street rezoning
On Monday, Sept. 28, the Richmond City Council tabled for 30 days a rezoning ordinance allowing 20-story and taller buildings on Broad Street between Belvidere Street and Arthur Ashe Boulevard. This delay benefits all of Richmond because it provides the opportunity to bring all parties into a citywide consideration of new zoning that creates growth everywhere.
COVID-19 gives urgency to understanding sickle cell disease, by Glenn Ellis
COVID-19 has made the need for awareness about sickle cell disease more urgent than ever.
Truth of Black-on-Black crime remains 28 years later, by A. Peter Bailey
In a 1992 column for the Richmond Free Press, I wrote, “Someone should tell young Black males who are killing each other with such deadly efficiency that they are being allowed to do so precisely because they are killing each other. The harsh reality is that there are many white people in this city who believe that it is cheaper to let them kill each other off than to educate them or to keep them in jail.”
An observation
We find a sad irony in the fact that excess and unclaimed money left from the sale of property seized from Richmonders — many of whom are Black — and sold by the city to pay delinquent taxes will be used to create a memorial to enslaved Black people who were considered property.
COVID-19 hits home
During the week the nation hit the grim milestone of 200,000 deaths from COVID-19, Gov. Ralph S. Northam and his wife, Pamela Northam, tested positive for the coronavirus.
Dec. 5 Christmas parade to go virtual
Richmond’s 37th Annual Christmas Parade will be virtual this year because of the coronavirus.
Tim Reid launches new network “LG/CY of a People”
Internationally known American actor, director, writer and filmmaker Tim Reid has launched a new streaming network called “LG|CY of a People” to tell stories about the diverse people and cultures within the African diaspora.
32nd Annual 2nd Street Festival goes virtual Oct. 3 and 4
The 32nd Annual 2nd Street Festival in Jackson Ward will have a twist this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Instead of thousands of people flocking to the Downtown neighborhood to enjoy the history, music, food and art, events will take place virtually.
NFL Hall of Famer Gale Sayers dies at 77
Gale Sayers, remembered for his spectacular athleticism and inspiring friendship with an ailing teammate, died Sept. 23, 2020. He was 77.
NSU names women to major athletic posts
Norfolk State University football will have a strong female influence behind the scenes when the Spartans return to the gridiron this spring.
Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin form NASCAR team with driver Bubba Wallace
African-Americans may have greater success on the NASCAR circuit thanks to the high-profile pairing of Michael Jordan and Bubba Wallace.
Sixth Baptist Church to celebrate grand opening of community mission center Oct. 3
As the coronavirus pandemic presses on, a faith-based community in Richmond’s West End continues to find ways to support its congregation and those in need.
Adoption advocate and political campaign volunteer Annette ‘Nettie’ Gordon dies at 82
Annette White “Nettie” Gordon, who helped build an adoption program focused on Black children and volunteered in campaigns of Democratic candidates, has died.
New poll shows Mayor Stoney ahead in re-election bid
Less than 40 percent of Richmond’s voters support the re-election of Mayor Levar M. Stoney, but with just a month to go, he appears to be on track to win at least five council districts in again facing a splintered opposition, a new poll of Richmond voters indicates.
Mayor’s challengers go on the offense during candidates forum
Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney was roundly criticized during a forum last week by four challengers seeking to unseat him for what they said is his administration’s lack of transparency.
City joining preservation effort for historic African-American cemetery
City Hall is finally joining an effort to recognize, preserve and protect a historic African-American cemetery that city government spent more than 120 years trying to erase.
Hanover School Board reaches consensus on new school names
Bell Creek Middle School and Mechanicsville High School have been selected by the Hanover County School Board as the new names for the former Confederate Stonewall Jackson Middle School and Lee-Davis High School.
City Council committee tanks resolution banning police use of tear gas to disperse crowds
Richmond Police will continue to be able to use tear gas and other non-lethal deterrents to disperse crowds of protesters as has happened in recent months.
Deadline to register to vote Oct. 13
Voting information
The presidential election, as well as contests for U.S. Senate, Congress, Richmond City Council and Richmond School Board, will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Church-based education pod opens in East End
Dr. Patricia A. Gould-Champ’s ministry is supporting East End students and parents with learning pods as a daily education solution.
Ready for sale: City wants to dispose of high-value property
The vacant Richmond Coliseum in Downtown. The aging Arthur Ashe Jr. Athletic Center in North Side. The historic but long-closed Fulton Gasworks in the East End. These are among 13 pieces of city property described as high-value that Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s administra- tion wants permission to sell.
Deadline extended to Oct. 30 for elderly, disabled tax relief program
The deadline for applying for or re-certifying for the City of Richmond’s property tax relief program has been extended to Friday, Oct. 30 — seven months past the original deadline because of the pandemic.
City property values on the rise in many areas
Richmond’s land book of assessed values shows why affordable housing is now a big issue.
Central State Hospital commemorates 150 years of serving health needs
A key part of African-American health and history in Virginia was celebrated last Thursday, as state health officials and professionals gathered online to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Central State Hospital outside Petersburg.
LeBron leading Lakers against his old Heat team in NBA finals
For four glorious seasons, LeBron James was the ultimate hero of Miami. Now he’s the villain.
Dr. Adam L. Bond, Ebenezer Baptist Church’s new pastor, eases into transition during pandemic
Dr. Adam L. Bond is blending the old with the new at historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, despite the disruption from the pandemic.
