Thursday, July 28
How many homeless people will be sheltered this winter remains unclear
Finding adequate space also an issue, city officials say
City Hall is moving forward in trying to find nonprofits or churches and other faith-based groups with available space to house homeless people, at least during the winter.
Protect freedom to marry, by Ben Jealous
We all know what people do tells you more about them than what they say. That’s true for politicians, too.
The oath of office should never be a lie, by David Marshall
Since 1789, only 45 men have held the Office of President of the United States, and each was required to take an oath of office. Regardless of political ideology, the Office of President is a position of honor and respect, nationally and worldwide.
How adults can avoid the summer slide
Most people are familiar with the summer slide, a term researchers use to describe what happens when grade-school students lose significant knowledge in reading and math over the summer break.
National Night Out events announced
The Richmond Police Department will celebrate National Night Out, the biggest citywide party of the year, and all city residents are invited to participate.
Museum crawl includes five Richmond venues
Richmond’s Second Intersecting History Museum Crawl will provide free admission and transportation to five area museums from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, July 31.
Girls gain valuable lessons in selling their own products
The Camp Diva Leadership Academy will host its annual Market Day featuring Camp Diva Leadership Academy partici- pants who make and sell their own products. This year’s Market Day takes place from 1 to 5 p.m. on Friday, July 29, at the Girls For A Change center, 100 Buford Road. For four hours, the community is invited to visit the market to shop, interact with the girls, and enjoy live entertainment. “Market Day is an important part of Camp Diva because it helps the girls develop public speaking skills as they interact with shoppers, and teaches them pricing and marketing skills, says Angela Patton, founder of Camp Diva Leadership Academy and CEO of Girls For A Change. “They also gain networking skills as they interact with the community and learn about en- trepreneurship.” This year’s Market Day also will include participants of a newly launched Girls For A Change Budding Black Girl Incuba- tor program. The incubator offers an immersive experience for girls who are interested in starting and growing a retail-based business, according to a news release. In addition to shopping and supporting Camp Diva and Immer- sion Lab participants, attendees may shop the Diva Bag Pop-Up Shop. GFAC recently hosted a Diva Bag Auction to raise money for its One Million Reasons to Build Campaign. As part of the Diva Bag Auction, GFAC has a number of gently-used designer bags from which to shop. For more details, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/camp-diva-market-day- 2022-tickets-366053514917
A food fest for hearts and souls
Food, music and family fun will be among the highlights of the Heart and Soul Festival this weekend at City Stadium.
Golfing group honors VCU Coach Andy Walker
To use a golfing term, Andy Walker has “aced” the test in his first season as VCU’s coach.
Virginians Mine Oregon Gold
Grant Holloway and Noah Lyles, right, have made the seismic leap from the Virginia High School League to the tip top of the track and field world.
HBCU United’s goal isn’t just about money
An HBCU basketball squad with a Virginia flavor left its mark on the winner-take-all $1 million The Basketball Tournament, the 64- team, single-elimination tournament for a million dollars.
Spartans’ notable HBCU division ranking
Norfolk State University will enter this coming football season with a national ranking.
Posthumous honor
John Jordan “Buck” O’Neil Jr., the first Black coach in MLB history, was inducted posthumously Sunday into the same Nationak Baseball Hall of Fame class as another Black baseball pioneer, Bud Fowler, and former Negro league All-Star, Minnie Miñoso.
In rare contact, U.S. offers Russia deal for Griner, Whelan
The U.S. has offered a deal to Russia aimed at bringing home WNBA star Brittney Griner and another jailed American, Paul Whelan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday. In a sharp reversal of previous policy, Blinken also said he expects to speak with his Kremlin counterpart for the first time since before Russia invaded Ukraine.
In Canada, Pope Francis apologizes to Indigenous peoples, says it’s only ‘first step’
Pope Francis issued his first apology to the Indigenous peoples in Canada for the Catholic Church’s role in administering residential schools, which robbed many of their families and culture.
Officer, once beaten by colleagues, to lead Boston Police
A former Boston Police officer who was beaten more than 25 years ago by colleagues who mistook him for a shooting suspect will be the new leader of the city’s police department, Mayor Michelle Wu announced Wednesday.
Jackson Ward organizations launch community business academy
The founders of the Jackson Ward Collective and the JWC Foundation are launching The Community Business Academy (CBA), a 12-week business fundamentals course for new and established business owners.
VUU fills leadership roles
Virginia Union University recently announced several new administrative roles.
NextUp RVA promotes positive youth development
Recent graduates excited about their future
Shiya Brown was a Richmond Public Schools student at Lucille Brown Middle School in 2015. When she became part of NextUp RVA’s second cohort, she explored several after-school programs that helped her grow academically and creatively.
New North Side farmers’ market faces challenge
A new farmers’ market has opened on the grounds of Richmond Community High School, but City Hall’s removal of electricity has limited the operation, organizers said.
City officials debate how to investigate defunct nonprofit
A criminal probe of the collapsed Enrichmond Foundation is on the way, according to 5th District Councilwoman Stephanie A. Lynch.
Pregnancy assistance program adding new location, doulas
Richmond-based Birth in Color is expanding again to help even more pregnant Black women avoid complications during and after the birthing process.
VCU’s Heartbeats program races for better maternal health outcomes
For the last several months, a new program at Virginia Commonwealth University has been working to prevent sometimes fatal complications such as domestic violence, racial inequality and medical bias that come with pregnancy.
Monkey pox vaccines, now available in Richmond area
In response to the spread of the monkeypox virus, the Richmond and Henrico health districts are vaccinating people who may be at higher risk of exposure but haven’t had contact with known positive cases.
Training facility for people formerly incarcerated won’t reopen
City Hall has ruled out allowing a nonprofit construction training program for people released from jails and prisons to return to a former North Side school building that it had occupied for five years.
Referendum idea to give voters a say in casino dollars and schools dropped
Not happening. City Council has declined to consider putting an advisory referendum on the November ballot that would allow city voters to decide if tax revenues from a casino should go to modernizing Richmond’s school buildings.
Community High alum lands role in AMC series
In August of 2021, Richmond native Kalyne Coleman got the call every young actor longs for: She got the part. On Oct. 2, Ms. Coleman will be seen in her first onscreen acting credit role as Grace de Pointe Du Lac in the AMC series “Interview with the Vampire.” But it almost didn’t happen.
Cityscape
Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
“Slow your roll,” is likely what Bill “Bojangles” Robinson would caution the driver of a vehicle that collided into the statue of the famous Richmond-born actor, dancer and singer.
Richmond sheriff blames staffing challenges for city jail’s violence
“We are doing everything we can to create an atmosphere that is positive” inside the Richmond City Justice Center and prevent attacks on deputies and inmates, according to Sheriff Antionette V. Irving.
Helping customers with utility bills during pandemic proves costly for city
More than 6,300 homes and businesses in Richmond — 10 percent of the customer base — are facing disconnection of their utilities for nonpayment of water, sewer and gas bills.
Kamala Harris meets with Democrats in Richmond to defend reproductive rights
Vice President Kamala Harris met with Virginia State Sens. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond, Mamie Locke, D-Hampton, Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, U.S. Rep. A. Donald McEachin, D-4th, and more than 20 other Democratic legislators and community leaders on Saturday, July 23, in Henrico County to discuss the fight to protect reproductive rights.
Players of color in MLB’s All-Star Game
Along with all the usual pageantry, the 92nd edition of the Major League All-Star Game was a “colorful” occasion indeed.
Sons and Daughters of Ham Cemetery rededication ceremony this week
The Sons and Daughters of Ham Cemetery, a historic Black cemetery that neighbors the University of Richmond and the city’s Bandy Field Nature Park, will be rededicated on Thursday, July 28, it has been announced.
35 years after winning Pulitzer, poet Rita Dove’s ‘Apocalyse’ is an awakening
When the coronavirus pandemic shut down much of the world in 2020, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Rita Dove had not published a book of her own work for more than a decade.
Personality: Martinez Kelley
Spotlight on board chairman of Atlantic Outreach Group
More than a decade ago Martinez Kelley saw the beginnings of the Atlantic Outreach Group, which eventually led to his path in community service.
102-year-old WWII veteran from segregated mail unit honored
Millions of letters and packages sent to U.S. troops had accumulated in warehouses in Europe by the time Allied troops were pushing toward the heart of Hitler’s Germany near the end of World War II. this wasn’t junk mail — it was the main link between home and the front in a time long before video chats, texting or even routine long-distance phone calls.
Moving forward
Some hope collective bargaining agreement will define Richmond as a ‘workplace of choice’
Waves of applause resounded in the City Council chambers Monday night after, one by one, the nine members of the governing body voted, as anticipated, to allow city workers to organize unions and negotiate contracts on wages, benefits and working conditions.
Thursday, July 21
NIH awards $3M to VCU to develop researchers in women’s health
The Office of Research on Women’s Health at the National Institutes of Health has awarded a $3.2 million grant to Vir- ginia Commonwealth University Institute for Women’s Health. The grant supports VCU’s junior faculty who will develop as researchers in women’s health.
City leader to question silent sheriff about jail attacks
Richmond Sheriff Antionette V. Irving has been asked to appear before City Council’s Public Safety Committee next week.
A more perfect union
City reaches negotiated agreement regarding collective bargaining
Collective bargaining is coming to City Hall for the first time – though it could take a year or more to have an impact.
Medical examiner: Jayland Walker was shot dozens of times
Jayland Walker, the 25-year-old Black man who died last month at the hands of police in Akron, Ohio, was shot dozens of times on June 27, with 26 bullets recovered from his body, according to a preliminary autopsy report released July 15.
Personality: Reginald E. Gordon
Spotlight on Richmond Memorial Health Foundation board chairman
Inside and outside the walls of City Hall, Reginald E. (for Equilla) Gordon is working to build a more equitable, racially inclusive Richmond.
Construction leader Langston R. Davis Sr. dies
Langston Randolph Davis Sr., president and chief executive officer of Richmond-based Davis Brothers Construction Co. Inc., has died.
3 for 3
Americans sweep top 3 places at the World championships for 3rd time
Men wearing the red, white and blue have harvested gold, silver and bronze at the World Athletics Championships.
Q&A: Jordan Peele on the dreams and nightmares of ‘Nope’
There’s little in contemporary movies quite like the arrival of a new Jordan Peele film. They tend to descend ominously and mysteriously, a little like an unknown object from above that casts an expanding, darkening shadow the closer it comes.
NPS grant to help preserve historic elementary school
'This will allow us to dream ... it will allow restoration and interpretation’
A Cumberland County school that was part of a vibrant African-American community for nearly 50 years is getting help from the National Park Service to preserve its location.
RPS approves stipends and hiring bonuses to attract new teachers
Richmond Public Schools is taking big steps to find new teachers for the upcoming school year.
Cityscape
Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
Real estate developer Capital City Partners, LLC purchased the City’s 71-year-old former Public Safety Building at 500 N. 10th St., 9th Street entrance shown above, for $3.5 million in 2021. Capital City officials said the building would be demolished on the 3-acre property to make room for a $325 million, 500,000-square-foot tower development that will be anchored by VCU Health.
Crusade for Voters supports November referendum for casino revenue use
If a casino is ever built in Richmond, should all the tax dollars generated from the gambling center go to modernizing Richmond’s decrepit school buildings?
City’s plan leaves fewer people with shelter this winter
City Hall is ending its decades-old effort to prevent homeless people from freezing to death when temperatures plunge.
VCU to study Covid’s long-term effects in children
Researchers and clinicians at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Nursing will study the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the lives and health of infants, youths and young adults.
Several organizations to receive child care assistance grants
City Hall plans to award grants to six organizations to help them shore up and expand day care operations for pre-school children to provide families with more options.
Richmond blood pressure center closes
The pandemic has claimed another victim – a Richmond-based clinic that treated low-income residents without health insurance for high blood pressure and related health conditions. After nearly 40 years of operation, the Richmond Area High Blood Pressure Center has closed its operation at 1200 W. Cary St. According to the former office manager, Pamela Moore-Barr, donations that kept the low-budget operation afloat dried up after COVID-19 hit in 2020. The clinic, which provided medication, heart tests and other services, was unable to find replacement dollars, Ms. Moore- Barr said, and quietly closed May 30 after referring patients to other health centers. “It was a sad day,” said Ms. Moore-Barr, who had been with the center since it opened in the spring of 1983. She was among the three remaining employees who were laid off. The center saw about 2,500 people a year and essentially was free. Patients were asked for a $10 donation but were treated anyway if they didn’t have it. Operating on less than $400,000 a year, the center relied heavily on volunteer physicians and nurses from VCU Health and other large health care operations. People who came to the center received checkups, heart tests, medication to control their blood pressure and referrals to specialists, if needed.
Monroe Park’s board still stands
The Monroe Park Conservancy is alive and well, according to attorney Thomas A. Lisk, the interim chair of the organization that governs the city’s oldest park. Mr. Lisk stated in a Tuesday email to the Richmond Free Press that the board has continued to meet and plans to hold elections for officers in September. Questions arose about the conservancy’s existence after the group’s website was removed from the internet and it was found that the group’s Facebook page had not had any new posts since March 2020.
No longer spinning their wheels
Richmond nonprofit uses circles to break cycles of poverty
For millions of Americans, living at or near the federal poverty line means barely getting by is a constant struggle. Census Bureau estimates show more than 20 percent of Richmond’s residents are living in poverty — a figure nearly 50 percent higher than the national average. Many of these residents work, and many feel as though they’ll never get ahead. Such was the case for Sherrell Thompson, 43, a resident of Churc Hill and Richmond native. Two years ago, the single mother and grandmother worked as a certified community health Wworker for Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority. Everyday she helped others in her job, but she also knew she needed help herself. “I really felt stuck where I was financially and I just didn’t know what steps to take next,” Ms. Thompson said by phone recently. One day, she took a deeper look at Circles RVA — a lo- cal organization she’d referred clients looking to better their financial circumstances to before. Ms. Thompson decided to put in her own application and was accepted to the program in August 2020. In that same cohort was Barbara Yates, 67, a mother, grand- mother and great-grandmother, who was born in Baltimore but moved to Richmond as a child. Both were drawn by Circles RVA’s vision “that everyone has enough money, meaning and friends to thrive.” In a recent phone interview, Circles RVA co-president Valena Dixon and coach Debbie Williams highlighted how the organiza- tion works alongside program participants — known as leaders — to help them realize that vision of financial stability, purpose and support in their lives. “Allies and volunteers create a circle of support around lead- ers and intentionally create relationships,” Ms. Dixon explained. “These relationships expand their networks and introduce them to resources that can reduce the barriers that hinder their rising out of poverty.” “You’re building communities by building intentional rela- tionships,” Ms. Williams added. “These relationships make all the difference and give leaders the support they need to move from surviving to thriving.” Circles RVA began with volunteers who were looking for ways to address Richmond’s poverty issue at the community level. It became a registered nonprofit in June 2017, modeled after Circles USA which sees circles, or the personal and professional networks each person has, as resources that can be shared. With Circles RVA, leaders undertake a 12-week educational program during which they are matched with allies and work to create SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound) goals for themselves. Over the next 18 months, leaders and allies meet weekly to ensure that leaders continue to progress toward their goals. As Ms. Dixon puts is, “Plan the work, work the plan.” And plans are working. Circles RVA graduated its fourth cohort in June, and its latest newsletter highlights the achievements of its 15 leaders who so far have completed the program. Many show average increases of about $1,200 in monthly income and $2,000 in total assets. Ms. Thompson and Mrs. Yates graduated in the June 2022 cohort and have seen the benefits. With her allies’ help, Miss Thompson revamped her résumé and secured a new, higher paying job with her employer as a resident services coordinator. She has used the extra income to reduce her debt and boost her credit score by more than 100 points. “I never thought I’d be able to do that,” Ms. Thompson said. “Circles RVA helped me so much. I was so happy I just cried through my whole graduation.” Learning to better manage her budget also helped Mrs. Yates. “Before I was an Amazon addict, but not anymore,” Mrs. Yates said, noting that she frequently made purchases from the online retailer. “Writing (down) where all of (my) money was going made it easy to see where you could bring your expenses down.” Mrs. Yates has started saving some of what she used to spend. She has a “rainy day fund” and is continuing to save toward another goal — travel. “I really enjoyed the program. You are constantly learning something every week,” Mrs. Yates said. “My allies were very supportive and encouraging. Whenever I was struggling, they helped me think like that little train, ‘I think I can. I think I can.’” Mrs. Yates and Ms. Thompson plan to stay connected with the friends they made through Circles RVA. Ms. Thompson even wants to apply to rejoin the program — this time as an ally. “I have benefitted so much that I need to pass that on.” To learn more about Circles RVA and its next cohort of lead- ers, visit https://circlesrva.org/
RPS names several interim school principals
Interim principals have been tapped by Richmond Public Schools for the 2022-2023 school year. They will serve at Chim- borazo Elementary School, J.B. Fisher Elementary School, Mary Scott Preschool, Oak Grove-Bellmeade Elementary School, and Summer Hill Preschool. “In each one of these candidates we saw great leaders who we know will lead with love and inspire our students to great- ness,” said RPS Superintendent Jason Kamras. It has not been stated how long the administrators will serve as interims. The new interim principals are: Cordell Watkins, who was assistant principal at J.L. Fran- cis Elementary for five years, will become interim principal of Chimborazo Elementary. Mr. Watkins also taught at eight schools within the division since he joined Richmond Public Schools in 2001. He earned a master’s in educational leadership and policy studies from Virginia Tech University and a bachelor’s of science in education from Old Dominion University. Lee A. Doxey will become the interim principal of Summer Hill Preschool, after spending numerous years with RPS as Early Head — Head Start coordinator of Student Support and Intervention. Previously, Ms. Doxey taught for PACT Head Start in Honolulu, was a private preschool director and teacher in Virginia Beach, and taught grades 1 through 3 for RPS. Ms. Doxey earned her bachelor’s in psychology from the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, and a master’s in Educational Administra- tion from Grand Canyon University. Mark Davis II is the interim principal of J.B. Fisher Elemen- tary School. He previously worked for the Knowledge Is Power Program and the Oklahoma Public Charter School System as a manager and network administrator. Dr. Davis has more than 15 years of experience working with young people, including tenure as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and division administrator. He earned a bachelor’s in agricultural sciences from Langston University, a master’s of business administration in finance from Webster University, and a doctor of education degree in educational leadership from Saint Louis University. Fatima Smith will serve as the interim principal of Oak Grove-Bellemeade. She previously was principal at Patrick Henry School of Science & Arts and in the New York City Public Schools. Under her leadership, PHSSA was recognized as a 2022 National Green Ribbon School, and PHSSA fourth graders won the White House Historical Association Prize at the 2022 Virginia History Day competition. Ms. Smith earned a bachelor’s in English, journalism and communication from Old Dominion University, and a master’s in curriculum and instruction from St. John’s University. Lisa Johnson-Hicks, a longtime RPS employee who has served in numerous roles, including Head Start teacher and Virginia Preschool Initiative Plus coach, will lead Mary Scott Preschool as interim principal. Ms. Johnson-Hicks earned a bachelor’s in early childhood education from Norfolk State University, and a master’s from Central Michigan University.
VSU graduate students offered free tuition in exchange for teaching in local schools
Virginia State University will offer a new grant-funded program to offer free tuition to graduate students who become full-time substitute teachers in the Richmond and Petersburg school systems.
Emmett Till’s house, Black sites to get landmark funds
Emmett Till left his mother’s house on Chicago’s South Side in 1955 to visit relatives in Mississippi, where the Black teenager was abducted and brutally slain for reportedly whistling at a white woman. A cultural preservation organization announced Tuesday that the house will receive a share of $3 million in grants being distributed to 33 sites and organizations nationwide that are important pieces of African-American history.
VUU Alumni Football Foundation to host Celebrity Golf Classic
Virginia Union University’s annual golf fundraiser will take place July 23 at The Crossings in Glen Allen, 800 Virginia Center Parkway.
'It was just another game for us’
Cornell Gordon recalls Jets iconic Super Bowl win against Colts
On Jan. 12, 1969, Cornell Gordon was on the team that shocked the football world.
MLB’s recent draft includes players of color
The complexion of Major League Baseball may be changing.
MJBL finishes strong in Bahamas
The Richmond-based Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL) has made an international statement.
Spartans find new baseball home
Norfolk State University will have a new baseball conference affiliation starting in spring 2023.
Simon & Schuster’s first black woman publisher is leaving
The publisher of Simon & Schuster’s flagship imprint, Dana Canedy, is stepping down to concentrate on a sequel to a book Denzel Washington adapted last year for a film of the same name, “A Journal for Jordan.”
Community cleanup celebrates Maggie Walker’s birthday
Liza Walker Mickens, the great-great-granddaughter of Maggie Lena Walker, left center, walks with other volunteers during a National Park Service and City of Richmond cleanup project on July 16 in honor of Mrs. Walker’s 158th birthday, which was on July 15.
City’s bargaining agreement deserves applause
An end to a long-fought battle appears imminent with the announcement that the City of Richmond is poised to approve a collective bargaining ordinance that will allow city employees to unionize.
Internet privacy, like abortion rights, under siege, by Clarence Page
Having witnessed how much the world seemed to change after the Roe v. Wade decision legalized abortion nationwide, it has been stunning—although not too surprising—to see how much the world has tried to change back.
Absurdities rooted in right-wing, by Faye Williams
Years ago, I stated that the damage of a Donald Trump presidency wouldn’t be in his initial term(s), but in the future evil that he would sanction. It now appears that “crazies,” especially in the political arena, are crawling from under rocks throughout the nation.
The Rev. Robert W. Oliver Sr. remembered as a ‘force for good’
Faith, family and hard work shaped the Rev. Robert Wade “Bobby” Oliver Sr.’s life.
Thursday, July 14
Squirrels’ Kyle Harrison competes in upcoming All-Star games
The Richmond Flying Squirrels have one of the nation’s most promising prospects and his skills will be on full display this weekend in Los Angeles.
1955 warrant in Emmett Till case found, family seeks arrest
A team searching a Mississippi courthouse basement for evidence about the lynching of Emmett Till has found the unserved warrant charging a white woman in his 1955 kidnapping, and relatives of the victim want authorities to finally arrest her nearly 70 years later.
‘Being underestimated ... that’s my superpower’
Democratic House Minority Leader Don Scott Jr. ready to energize base
These days Delegate Don L. Scott Jr. doesn’t spend as much time in the courtroom as he used to.
Richmond Police officer charged in April 7 traffic deaths of 2 teens
A Richmond Police officer, who ran a red light in South Side while racing to respond to a burglary-in-progress call, is now facing the prospect of prison time for killing two teens when he collided with their car.
Personality: Joanna Heiskill
Spotlight on co-founder of Justice and Change for Victims of Nursing Facilities
When Joanna Heiskill’s mother died in August 2019, she was determined to find the cause of her death.
Vernon Winfrey, Oprah’s father, dies at 89
Oprah Winfrey confirmed in an instagram post that her father died in Nashville, Tenn., on Friday, July 8, 2022.
Faith leaders attend White House celebration of gun control law
Faith leaders from a wide range of traditions, including those whose houses of worship have been attacked, were at the White House on July 11 as members of Congress and other gun control advocates gathered for a celebration of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, signed into law June 25.
Raiders name first Black female president of NFL franchise
First it was Art Shell. Now it’s Sandra Douglass Morgan. The Las Vegas Raiders (formerly Oakland Raiders and Los Angeles Raiders) have reached another racial milestone in the NFL.
RVA East End Festival returns
The RVA East End Festival returns Saturday, Sept. 24, from 12 to 9 p.m. at Henry Marsh Elementary School, 813 N. 28th St. The free family event will feature performances by the Richmond Symphony, youth musicians, dancers and visual artists.
Daily dangers, including physical assaults on deputies, allegedly occur at city jail
Seven months after Richmond Sheriff Antionette V. Irving was sworn into her second four-year term, concern is mounting over her control of the still short-staffed Richmond City Justice Center, as the jail located in Shockoe Valley is called.
‘The Bible does not speak about abortion’
City councilman and minister says right-wing evangelicals’ religious doctrine lacks biblical foundation
Dr. Michael J. Jones is ready to debate anyone who claims that a ban on abortion is based on the Bible.
VUU announces new appointments
Virginia Union University has appointed four new vice presidents at the 1500 N. Lombardy St. campus.
Eviction reprieve
Donald J. Garrett has gained a six-week reprieve from an eviction hearing in Henrico General District Court along with dozens of his neighbors.
RRHA moving downtown by the end of 2022
The city’s housing authority is making plans to shift its headquarters from Gilpin Court to Downtown, the Free Press has been told.
Still standing:
The battle over who gets A.P. Hill statue remains undecided
A legal fight is slowing City Hall’s efforts to remove the last remaining statue of a slavery-defending Confederate military leader.
Black History Museum to host chess classes
The Bright Minds RVA Chess Classes and Tournament for Richmond-area teens will take place Aug. 8 through 18 at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia.
U.S. labor shortage provides opportunity for ex-prisoners
When Antonio McGowan left the Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman after serving 17 years, he was free for the first time since he was 15. But as an adult finally out from behind bars, he immediately found himself confined to menial labor.
Evolution: Black and Brown players and the MLB All-Star Games
The first official Major League Baseball All-Star Game was in 1933. But for many Black Americans, 1949 may perhaps be a year they consider more important.
Tracye Thompson aims for Dodgers victory
Klay Thompson, who helped the Golden State Warriors win the NBA title, may have competition for bragging rights at the next family reunion.
Hugh Evans, first HBCU graduate to referee in the NBA, dies
Longtime NBA official and former Richmonder Hubert “Hugh” Evans died Friday, July 8, 2022. He was 81.
Vote now for the Library of Virginia’s 19th Annual People’s Choice Awards
The Library of Virginia has announced 14 finalists for the 19th Annual People’s Choice Awards.
Several events will mark Maggie L. Walker’s birthday
Richmond will mark Maggie L. Walker’s 158th birthday this week with several events.
2nd Street headliners announced
Grandmaster Flash, the creative and celebrated hip-hop artist who nearly 50 years ago originated the turntable moves that are now standard, will headline this year’s 2nd Street Festival in Jackson Ward.
Casting call for ‘Swagger’
AppleTV+ series’ second season being filmed in Richmond
Kendall Cooper Casting is seeking extras for the second season of “Swagger” starring O’Shea Jackson Jr. and Isaiah Hill.
Rebuilding the Village festival
A free, open-to-all community festival that organizers said will feature food, music and fun is scheduled to take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 16, at Armstrong High School, 2300 Cool Lane in the East End.
Abortion in Virginia must be protected
If you are a Black or Brown woman who is pregnant, living in Virginia, and want the right to become a parent, congratulations.
Nation loses unsung civil rights hero, by Marc H. Morial
The name Clifford Alexander Jr., who died recently at age 88, is not as well-known today as some of his contemporaries in the Civil Rights Movement. Perhaps no American, however, has done more to combat segregation and discrimination in private employment and the military or leaves as great a legacy.
Use economic tools to stop gun violence, by Julianne Malveaux
There have been at least 214 mass shootings in the United States so far this year, the most recent being the killings during a July 4 gathering in Highland Park, Ill. This year, we have also been both riveted and horrified by the massacre of 21 people, 19 of them children, in Uvalde, Texas. A crazed racist killed 10 Black people and wounded at least three others when he shot up a Tops grocery store in Buffalo, N.Y. In 2022, there have been more shootings than days; the shootings have become commonplace.
Thursday, July 7
NFL’s first black quarterback dies at age 76
Marlin Briscoe, the NFL’s first Black starting quarterback, died of pneumonia June 27 at his home in Norwalk, Calif. He was 76.
What would Washington say?, by Clarence Page
As America’s birthday approached during the House select committee’s investigation of the Jan. 6 attack last year on the Capitol, I was reminded of George Washington’s warning about political parties—and why he thought they were a terrible idea.
Like father and a lot like son
Druw Jones’ baseball skills echo those of his dad
Richmond baseball fans may recall Andruw Jones as arguably the most talented player to ever suit up at The Diamond.
Taking our Supreme Court back, by Ben Jealous
Did you ever wonder whether elections really matter? Well, the Donald Trump Supreme Court majority has answered that question for good.
A salute to Justice Jackson
We at the Richmond Free Press extend our warmest congratulations to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson for being recently sworn in as the first Black woman to sit on the high court.
Indoor basketball courts or outdoor courts? Why not both?
The advantages of indoor and outdoor basketball courts are fairly obvious.
After Roe’s fall, Black churches support some or all reproductive health options
For Evangelist Lesley W. Monet, the weeks since the fall of Roe v. Wade has been a time of praise and preparation.
VHEF lends helping hand to students heading to college
More than 300 guests stepped up for “Jazz Inside Out” at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts on July 2 for the Virginia Higher Education Fund’s annual gala to raise funds to help underserved college students.
Hampton University on the play list
Many new schools are popping up on Hampton University’s football schedule.
From touchdowns to take-downs
Going from the gridiron to the ring isn’t as unusual as some may think.
Brown makes sure Titans don’t sink
The Cosby High School softball team sent an SOS for a pitcher this past spring and a freshman answered the call.
A survivor of the migrant trailer: ‘They couldn’t breathe’
Simple advice from a friend to stay near the door may have saved Yenifer Yulisa Cardona Tomás from the deadly fate that befell 53 other migrants when they were abandoned trapped in a sweltering semi-trailer last week on the edge of San Antonio.
Student at Virginia Union selected as White House Summer Intern
Virginia Union University ris- ing Junior, Joseph “Joey” Graham II has been selected as a 2022 White House summer intern.
Gov. Youngkin appoints new VSU board members
A bank manager, a Midlothian physician and an adviser for historically black colleges and universities are among the six newest additions to Virginia State University’s Board of Visitors.
VSU renews president’s contract for five more years
Dr. Makola M. Abdullah will lead Virginia State University for the rest of the decade, the university has announced.
Dawnie Walton wins VCU Cabell First Novelist Award
Dawnie Walton, a Jacksonville, Fla. native and former man- aging editor of Essence Magazine and Entertainment Weekly, is the 2022 Virginia Commonwealth University Cabell First Novelist Award recipient for her debut novel “The Final Revival of Opal & Nev.”
Rita Dove to speak at Library of Virginia
Pulitzer Prize winner Rita Dove will discuss her 2021 volume of poems, “Playlist for the Apocalyse,” at 6 p.m. on July 28 at the Library of Virginia’s Lecture Hall.
Monroe Park Conservancy’s status unknown
Has the Monroe Park Conservancy, a private group that manages the city’s oldest park, joined the Enrichmond Foundation in going defunct?
Councilwoman calls for audit of defunct foundation
The chair of City Council’s Education and Human Services Committee plans to seek a financial audit of the collapsed Enrichmond Foundation, which previously played a crucial role in providing support for city parks and recreation.
Title IX evolves with the times
On June 23, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 turned 50 years old.
Fire destroys RPS property twice in less than 6 months
Fox Elementary fire cause is ‘undetermined’
Nearly five months after a fire ripped through and destroyed William Fox Elementary School, a report released by the Richmond Fire Department on July 1 offers little insight as to its cause.
Jackson Ward residents continue to hear plans, explore ideas for historic neighborhood’s future
The latest proposal to reunite the former “Harlem of the South” was unveiled to Jackson Ward residents and government stakeholders at the Hippodrome Theater on June 29. All were eager to hear and discuss updates for the Reconnect Jackson Ward Project.
Neglected Highland Park church may soon see new life
It’s taken four years but plans to convert a derelict church in the 1200 block of Brookland Park Blvd. in North Side into 66 affordable apartments are moving closer to reality.
Postal rates increasing
Effective Sunday, July 10, the price of a stamp to mail a letter will increase to 60 cents, up 2 cents from the current price of 58 cents.
Collective bargaining decision delayed again
The vote to authorize Richmond city employees to unionize is now expected to happen Monday, July 25.
Natural gas price hikes mean higher bills for area customers
Area residents who cook, heat, cool or otherwise rely on natural gas provided by Richmond are starting to see their bills jump – even though cold weather is still months away.
Jill Biden visits Henrico clinic to promote vaccine for children
First Lady Jill Biden joined state and local leaders at a Henrico County health clinic on July 1, where they encouraged parents to vaccinate children between the ages of six months to 5 years old.
Henrico County man fighting eviction will soon have his day in court
Donald J. Garrett could find out within a week whether he will keep the Eastern Henrico apartment he has lived in since 2011.
They, too, are Americans
Raising their right hand, 46 people from 29 countries stand before U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit Chief Judge Roger L. Gregory as he administers the Oath of Allegiance on July 4 during a naturalization ceremony at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture.
Virginia-born Jimmy Walker named to college hall of fame
Native Virginian Jimmy Walker is among those selected for the College Basketball Hall of Fame’s Class of 2022. Formal induction ceremonies will be Nov. 21-22 in Kansas City, Mo.
Christian Methodist Episcopal Church elects second woman and African bishops
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church has elected its second woman bishop and received its first episcopal address from a woman during its quadrennial General Conference.
Personality: Dr. Hollee Freeman
Spotlight on co-founder and co-curator of City Bees RVA
Dr. Hollee Freeman is helping to keep a vital community of workers buzzing — all 90,000 of them.
Ketanji Brown Jackson sworn in, becomes 1st Black woman on Supreme Court
Ketanji Brown Jackson was sworn in to the Supreme Court on Thursday, June 30, shattering a glass ceiling as the first Black woman on the nation’s highest court.
Pay them, but not her
RPS spends extra to win bill dispute
The Richmond School Board paid a white law firm $31,000 in legal fees to avoid paying a Black professional’s $27,000 bill for doing consulting work in the case of a disabled student, half of which was to be paid by the state.
Sharks hire Mike Grier as NHL’s first Black GM
The San Jose Sharks’ three-month search for a general manager ended with a barrier-breaking hire as the team made longtime NHL forward Mike Grier the first Black GM in league history.
A legacy of sports and scholarship
Seven honorees were inducted into the Virginia Interscholastic Association Heritage Association’s Hall of Fame on June 24 in Charlottesville.
