Thursday, June 30
City’s Legendary Ingramettes earn NEA award
The Legendary Ingramettes, a gospel group that has performed more than 60 years, has received a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts. They are the first group from Richmond to earn the distinction, and one of 10 recipients in 2022 who will receive a $25,000 monetary award, according to the NEA. The NEA started the award in 1982 to recognize “recipients’artistic excellence and support their continuing contributions to our nation’s traditional arts heritage.” The world-famous group performed at the unveiling of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington and in 2019, trav- eled to Bulgaria and Serbia to perform. Maggie Ingram started the group to sup- port herself and her five children when her husband abandoned them — she played music and her children sang. She drove the family from Florida to Richmond in 1961, arriving on Christmas Eve. Once in Richmond, she started work- ing for civil rights icon Oliver Hill Sr. and later owned a child care business. Maggie Ingram and The Ingramettes debuted in Richmond at the Hood Temple AME Zion Church. Ms. Ingram died in 2015. Today, Rev. Almeta Ingram-Miller, Maggie Ingram’s daughter, is the only original member of the group, but the singers are related to one another. “Take A Look In The Book” is the group’s first album without the family matriarch and was recorded in Richmond over three days. Rev. Ingram-Miller now leads the group. Produced by Jon Lohman, the recordings are part of the Virginia Folklife Program at Virginia Humanities and include traditional spirituals and “new Appalachian sources like Ola Belle Reed and Bill Withers.” The group will perform a virtual concert Sept. 22. Information about the upcoming performance and the group can be found on their website: https://legendaryingramettes.com/.
‘Blessing of Elders’ lauds 7 Black Christian luminaries at Museum of the Bible
Well-known names from the world of gospel music and the Black church gathered at the Museum of the Bible to hail the contributions of African-American churches and to call for continued efforts toward building unity and bridging divides.
Caleb Swanigan dies at age 25
Caleb Swanigan’s basketball star shined bright but not nearly long enough.
Britton Wilson finishes second at USATF Championships
It took a world-record performance to prevent Britton Wilson from being the U.S. 400-meter hurdles champion.
Pro basketball is all in the family for many NBA draftees
After being selected with the fifth overall pick by the Detroit Pistons in the NBA draft June 23, Jaden Ivey celebrated with his family and quickly went to the stage to shake Commissioner Adam Silver’s hand. As he proceeded to walk off stage, he was overcome with emotion, and tears continued to stream down his face as he spoke with ESPN’s Monica McNutt. Ivey’s mother, Niele Ivey, was right by his side.
R. Kelly sentenced to 30 years in sex trafficking case
Disgraced R&B superstar R. Kelly was sentenced Wednesday to 30 years in prison for using his fame to sexually abuse young fans, including some who were just children, in a systematic scheme that went on for decades.
Triangle Players bring Broadway to Richmond
An ensemble of Broadway performers will appear in “Arts Ignite Richmond: A Broadway Spectacular” at the Richmond Triangle Players’ Robert B. Moss Theatre on July 9 at 7:30 p.m. The theatre is located at 1300 Altamont Ave. Conceived by Dr. Keith Bell and Mary-Mitchell Campbell (“Company,” “The Prom,” “Mean Girls”), audience members will be given a glimpse into Broadway’s living room that includes personal journeys and Broadways hits. Appearing will be Jessica Vosk, who made her Carnegie Hall debut with a sold-out solo show in November 2021. She will make her London debut at Cadogan Hall this summer. Also appearing are Marissa Rosen (“Legally Blonde,” “Foot- loose”), and Rueby Wood (“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Disney’s Better Nate Than Ever”). Arts Ignite, a New York-based nonprofit organization, em- powers youths to expand their creative capacity and sense of community. Tickets may be purchased online at https://donate.artsignite. org/richmond
Architects for future George Wythe High gather comments, ideas from public
The idea of a new George Wythe High School is beginning to take shape, but a rendering shared with an audience of about 60 in the school’s auditorium Tuesday night is only a starting point said RRMM Architect’s president and CEO Duane Harver.
Dogwood Dell Fourth of July festivities
Independence Day activities return to the Dogwood Dell Amphitheater with a celebration hosted by the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities, as part of the 65th annual Festival of Arts.
Citizenship ceremony Monday at Virginia Museum of History and Culture
Along with fireworks and other festivities, Richmond will mark Independence Day with a ceremony at which more than 50 people from around the globe will be sworn in as citizens of this country.
Meadow Farm hosts lights celebration on July 4
Henrico County will present its annual Red, White and Lights community celebration of Independence Day on Monday, July 4 at Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, 3400 Mountain Road.
Sesha Joi Moon to oversee diversity and inclusion on Capitol Hill
Sesha Joi Moon, a Richmond native and co-founder of a Richmond-based nonprofit, has been named the director of the House of Representatives Office of Diversity and Inclusion.
July 4 holiday closings
In observance of the Fourth of July holiday on Monday, July 4, please note the following:
Henrico homeowner disturbed by N.C. firm’s shoddy work on her property
Brenda F. Peters was certain that she owned every bit of the property on which the brick bungalow she bought 10 years ago stands in Eastern Henrico County.
Enrichmond Foundation’s status is unclear
The nonprofit has been an umbrella for some 85 volunteer organizations
A 32-year-old foundation that was created to support the city Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities and that is now the owner of two historic Black cemeteries may have collapsed.
Former RRHA manager James W. ‘Dick’ Harris Sr. dies
For more than three decades, James Willard “Dick” Harris Sr. was a familiar face to public housing residents in Richmond.
Collective bargaining vote delayed again
There will be a City Council vote to settle whether to allow city workers to engage in collective bargaining. The only mystery is when it will happen.
More than 3 dozen groups nominated for city’s health equity partners
The City of Richmond’s latest COVID-19 relief effort is underway, with three local groups working to help neighborhoods that face the biggest health disparities as part of the city’s new Health Equity Fund.
If it’s June, it must be Black Music Month
While Juneteenth has been a primary focus for many Black Americans throughout June, another observance — Black Music Month — has also captured their attention.
Pastor Dorothy L. Hughes, a business owner and gospel musician, dies
Pastor Dorothy Lee Lynch Hughes, founder and leader of Victory Christian Center RVA in Richmond and owner of two residential homes for the disabled, has died. Pastor Hughes, who, according to her family, also won acclaim for her gospel musical “How I Got Over,” passed away Monday, June 20, 2022. She was 83.
Sixth Mount Zion honors Rev. Jasper
Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church in Richmond has installed an interpretative sign at the gravesite of its founding pastor, the Rev. John Jasper, in celebration of his 210th birthday.
Williams makes ‘con-Vince-ing’ case to Memphis
Vince Williams is on a roll. Already he has one of his long sneakers in the NBA door. Now he hopes to continue his luck in Las Vegas. There’s no time for the former VCU standout to let his foot off the gas.
Personality: Taylor Thornley Keeney
Spotlight on founder and executive director of Little Hands Virginia
In December 2018, inspiration led Taylor Thornley Keeney to reshape community child care in the Richmond region.
Ketanji Jackson to be sworn in
Nearly three months after she won confirmation to the Supreme Court, Ketanji Brown Jackson is officially becoming a justice. Judge Jackson, 51, will be sworn as the court’s 116th justice Thursday, just as the man she is replacing, Justice Stephen Breyer, retires.
‘No one handed out medals’
Retired Richmond fireman recalls heroic work saving elderly residents in fire 44 years ago
As the firetrucks roared up, an elderly woman was screaming for help out of a half-open window as smoke billowed around her. She would be the first person that firefighter William“Junie” Bullock would rescue that day from the ninth floor of the Boxwood Building at Imperial Plaza, a five-building complex for retirees located on Bellevue Avenue in North Side that had opened 11 years earlier.
The U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision and what it means for Virginia
The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday overturned Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that had provided a constitutional right to abortion. The June 24 ruling is expected to lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states, although the timing of those laws taking effect varies.
Congratulations to 2022 high school graduates
Congratulations to all of the students, especially those who are at or near the top of their class.
White evangelicals are taking over the country
Hiding in plain sight for decades has been a campaign by white evangelicals to change America and subjugate women.
Now that Roe is gone, what’s next?. by Clarence Page
Now that the Supreme Court has overturned the landmark Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide in 1973, could same-sex marriage be next? Or even interracial marriage?
Roe v. Wade impacts Black women, by Glynda Carr
The Supreme Court just dealt a devastating blow to reproductive rights. With its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson, five Re- publican-appointed Justices on the U.S. Supreme Court swept away half a century of progress and eviscerated women’s rights and equality. After last month’s leaked opinion, we knew this moment could come, but that doesn’t make the news any easier to digest.
‘America reigns without a rival’
As we approach America’s celebration of its independence on July 4, many of us do so with sadness, trepidation and outright anger. And with good reason.
Thursday, June 23
Curry rightly earns MVP crown after averaging 31.2 points in Finals
Legends such as Bill Russell, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar all visited the NBA mountaintop. Now it’s Steph Curry’s turn to enjoy the view from the best seat on the summit.
Kudos to the Free Press and to Bonnie Newman Davis
As someone who has known Bonnie Newman Davis through membership in the Virginia Professional Chapter, Society of Professional Journalists, since — I think — the early 1980s, I know the Free Press will go onward and upward with her editorial leadership.
Historic Black cemeteries need substance, not symbolism, by Brian Palmer
Across the South on any given day, volunteers of all ages, races and backgrounds gather with hand tools and weed whackers to help restore historic Black burial grounds, many of which have been subject to the structural neglect and active violence that Jim Crow visited on African-American individuals, communities and institutions for generations. groups such as Richmond’s Friends of East End Cemetery (I’m a founding member) and Woodland Cemetery Volunteers, along with Durham, N.C.’s Friends of Geer Cemetery, have devoted years to clearing these sites of invasive overgrowth and illegally dumped garbage. They have revealed thousands of grave markers and stones, each standing for a person, that had been obscured for decades.
Jan. 6 was more than a ‘dustup’, by Dr. E. Faye Williams
Jack Del Rio is not necessarily a stupid man. He was a three-sport athlete who received an athletic scholarship to the University of Southern California. After a successful collegiate career he was drafted into the NFL by the New Orleans Saints. In addition to the Saints, during his non-stellar playing career, he played for the Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, Minnesota Vikings, and the Miami Dolphins. While playing for Kansas City in 1990, he even earned his undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Kansas. He began an NFL coaching career in 1997, which he continues in its latest iteration as defensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders.
Juneteenth doesn’t mark the end of slavery; ratification of the 13th amendment does, by DeWayne Wickham
The day after the federal government announced that slavery in the United States had been officially ended, The New York Times published a front- page story that trumpeted this hard-won victory.
Black excellence
We often hear the expression “Black excellence,” particularly when Black people, individually or collectively, achieve the seemingly impossible.
Professional sports messaging to end gun violence, by Donald J. Adams
America’s struggle with gun violence is not going un-noticed by many professional sports teams.
Mariah Carey, Neptunes join Songwriters Hall of Fame
After a glittering career of No. 1 hits Mariah Carey was finally inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame on June 16, but not before challenging her new fellow members to do better by women.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs to receive lifetime honor at BET Awards
Sean “Diddy” Combs built one of hip-hop’s biggest empires, blazing a trail with his own music television network and fashion line, and now his decorated career has earned him one of the highest honors at the BET Awards this month.
Juneteenth events had something for everyone
Richmonders celebrated the second official Juneteenth holiday with a four-day weekend of dancing, music, marches and several family-oriented activities.
VUU’s fall football standing strong
The Virginia Union University football season is off to a good start despite the first game being more than two months away.
Florida’s Edward Waters U. wins NCAA baseball bracket
Edward Waters University has won the big prize in HBCU baseball.
‘You wear out’: How chronic illness grounds and inspires William Barber’s activism
Standing outside a church in rural North Carolina this spring, the Rev. William Barber II leaned on his dented and scuffed wooden cane. With one powerful hand he pushed himself up and into the seat of a long black Chevrolet Suburban, then swung his legs in, using the cane, wedged against the door, as a fulcrum. The effort left him out of breath, his expansive chest heaving as he lay back in the seat, reclined to afford him space. No sooner had an aide closed the door before a man from the church rapped gently on the window. “Rev. Barber,” he said, “you’ve been a role model, an inspiration.”
Jamestown Jackal’s Myles Copeland helps save referee’s life
Basketball player Myles Copeland will forever be a hero, even if he never makes another shot.
Fastballs and homers command Braden Montgomery’s rise
Fans awaiting the next African-American baseball sensation may find their man wearing jersey No. 6 for the Stanford University Cardinal.
Beal says little about free agency but wrist making progress
In a couple weeks, Bradley Beal’s future might look a lot clearer.
KLM and Impact Makers partner to provide $36,000 in scholarships
Women of color who attend college in Virginia and are majoring in technology are encouraged to apply for $12,000 scholarships.
VCUarts Theatre receives $5M gift to create empathetic culture
The Department of Theatre in the School of the Arts at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCUarts Theatre) has received a $5 million gift to create three endowed funds to promote education and social awareness. The funds will help explore social justice through the lens of theatre and to cultivate an equitable and inclusive culture for students, faculty and staff.
Jefferson Davis rises again at The Valentine
The Jefferson Davis statue, erected in 1907 on Monument Avenue and pulled down by protesters on June 10, 2020, was recently unveiled at the Valentine Museum.
New plaintiff’s in House elections suit unlikely to sway judge
The current and former president of the Loudoun County NAACP are now parties to a suit seeking to force new elections for the 100 House of Delegate seats in November — but the federal judge hearing the case appears determined to ensure that new elections cannot happen.
Richmond plans to hold a second casino vote in November, despite state budget’s language
Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin refused to intervene to help Richmond gain a second chance to secure a casino-resort, which aids those seeking to have the casino go to Petersburg and leaves advocates for a Richmond casino fuming.
RUN RICHMOND coming to the city
RUN RICHMOND 16.19, a symbolic 16.19 mile-run com- memorating 400 years of unity, diversity and the sacrifices and achievements of African-Americans is coming to Richmond on Sept. 17.
RPS honors former coach and mentor by naming middle school gym for him
Allen “Cutt” Cole mentored hundreds of students as a teacher and track, flag football and basketball coach at Thomas H. Henderson Middle School in North Side.
RPS summer meals program begins June 29
After school closes June 24, Richmond Public Schools will still serve free breakfast and lunch at six schools to ensure students are not hungry most of the summer, it has been announced.
Collective bargaining outcome remains unclear
Could City Council vote on authorizing collective bargaining at its upcoming meeting on Monday, June 27?
Vanishing notebooks
RPS officials report 12,100 laptops missing
On the heels of a scathing audit report, Richmond Public Schools is admitting that its own internal check has found that more than 1,600 laptops that were purchased have vanished, and that it does not know the whereabouts of another 10,558 laptops that are listed in the inventory.
(RE)Framing exhibit tells a story of community
When George Floyd was murdered by Minneapolis Police in 2020, the world erupted in protest. As far away as Pretoria, South Africa, and Sydney, Australia, millions took to the streets demanding justice for Mr. Floyd, and other Black Americans and people of color around the world also killed by police.
Jan. 6 hearings:
What we’ve learned, and what’s next
The House committee investigating The Capitol insurrection heard from election workers and state officials on Tuesday as they described former President Trump’s pressure to overturn his 2020 election defeat. On Thursday, the nine-member panel will hear from former Justice Department officials who refused Trump’s entreaties to declare the election “corrupt.”
Personality: Dr. Monroe E. Harris Jr.
Spotlight on Virginia Higher Education Fund’s ‘Jazz Inside Out’ honorary chairman
When it comes to charitable, arts or education-related events that take place in Richmond, it’s not uncommon to see Dr. Monroe E. Harris Jr.’s name listed as a donor, participant or leader.
Commanders football team ends football training ties with Richmond
Richmond is no longer on the training camp schedule for the Washington Commanders.
Thursday, June 16
State Department officials meet with Griner’s WNBA team
State Department officials met Monday with members of Brittney Griner’s WNBA team about the Phoenix Mercury star’s months long detention in Russia and the Biden administration’s efforts to secure her release.
New RPS teachers to earn $51,182 annually; bus drivers will earn $23 per hour
Starting pay for Richmond schoolteachers will top $50,000 for the first time after July 1.
Unsheltered
Plans to house the homeless in Shockoe Valley disappear
Plans for a year-round shelter open around the clock for the homeless have suddenly evaporated seven months after being announced.
Poor People’s campaign in Washington to highlight low-wage earners
Is the country in a moral, economic and political crisis for ignoring people living on the financial margin?
Personality: Corey M. Nicholson
Spotlight on board chairman of Metropolitan Junior Baseball League
Corey M. Nicholson’s lifelong appreciation for baseball, its history and its impact, goes back to his childhood spent watching hours of New York Mets games on black and white television with his grandparents. Today Mr. Nicholson uses his passion and knowledge for the game to help guide the formative sports experiences of Richmond youths as board chairman for the Metropolitan Junior Baseball League.
Mississippi civil rights activist ‘Bud’ McGee dies at 81
William “Bud” McGee, a Mississippi civil rights activist who worked to register Black voters in the 1960s, has died.
Juneteenth events offer exhibits, music, storytelling and more
From storytelling to festivals and fireworks, a bevy of Richmond-area activities are planned to mark Juneteenth, the national holiday celebrating the end of slavery.
Gun buyback is on track
Richmond is on track to sponsor its first gun buyback program — despite substantial evidence that such programs are largely public relations gimmicks that do not affect gun violence.
VUU, Hampton and NSU on tap for Chris Paul events
Virginia schools will be on full display at the second annual Chris Paul HBCU basketball events this coming season. =
Federal court issues July deadline for new elections lawsuit
A new lawsuit seeking to force new elections for the House of Delegates this November is on the fast track.
Black history museum’s interim director steps down
A leadership change appears to be in the works for the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia in Richmond, though it is currently shrouded in secrecy.
A helping hand is just a call away
Need help with housing or utility costs? Want to learn about child care options? Looking for employment? So many people say they don’t know where to start to get the answers they need.
VIAHA 2022 to induct new members
Seven notable African-American Virginians will be recognized for their work in education and other fields during the Virginia Interscholastic Association Heritage Association’s Hall of Fame awards ceremony on June 24 in Charlottesville.
Welcome home, Bobby
Robert “Bobby” L. Dandridge was a star long before the NBA made his name a household word. No one knew that better than Mr. Dandridge’s family, friends, fans and former teammates who were on hand for “The Bobby Dandridge Legacy Celebration” last Saturday at his alma mater, Maggie Walker High School (now the Maggie Walker Governor’s School) where he was a star in the late 1960s.
John Marshall High School’s Class of 2022
Richmond Public Schools’ Class of 2022 started high school two years before the COVID-19 pandemic and spent part of the last two years as virtual learners. Now equipped with perseverance and resilience, these new graduates are primed for their next chapter.
U.S. failed to stop fraud in COVID loan program, Clyburn says
The U.S. failed to take basic steps at the start of the coronavirus pandemic to prevent fraud in a federal aid program intended to help small businesses, depleting the funds and making people more vulnerable to identity theft, the chairman of a House panel examining the payouts said Tuesday.
Consistency, power and speed drive baseball’s roster of diverse talent
With Luis Arraez high stepping at the head of the pack, players of color are displaying a parade of excellence in big league baseball.
Keeping up with Wilson is a hurdle
Even as Britton Wilson’s impressive track and field resume continues to grow, she’s just warming up.
Dallas’ legendary running back Don Perkins dies
Don Perkins, the running back that helped the Dallas Cowboys earn the label “America’s Team,” died on Thursday, June 9, 2022. He was 84.
Bellemare’s easy to find in Stanley Cup playoffs
In viewing the ongoing Stanley Cup playoffs, it’s hard not to notice Pierre-Edouard Bellemare because he is the only Black player on either team.
Another coach with ties to Richmond lands in Charlotte
The NBA’s Charlotte Hornets are taking on a Richmond look.
Mellody Hobson, a Black woman, joins Broncos ownership group
The Waltons, heirs to the Walmart fortune and America’s richest family, have won the bidding to purchase the Denver Broncos in the most expensive deal for a sports franchise anywhere in the world.
Exhibit features works of Free Press photographers
The summer of 2020 was a turning point in the history of Richmond and the nation. Richmond activists joined others across the country and around the world to protest the murder of George Floyd and amplify the Black Lives Matter movement.
Richmond Folk Festival announces dates, first group of artists
The Richmond Folk Festival will return Oct. 7-9 to Richmond’s downtown riverfront to showcase more than 30 local, national and global acts that will perform music and dance across six stages. The free, three-day event attracts some 200,000 people over the weekend and is presented by Venture Richmond Events in partnership with the National Council for the Traditional Arts, the Virginia Folklife Program, the Center for Cultural Vibran- cy, Children’s Mu- seum, and the City
Real or not
Last week, Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney went to the top floor of City Hall to eagerly reveal the results of a secretive yearlong project led by the West Cary Group, an advertising and marketing organization.
Good news
LEGO Group will build its first U.S. factory producing its hugely popular plastic building blocks for children to create and build anything they can imagine in Chesterfield County.
Freedom then, freedom now, by Dr. E. Faye Williams
Juneteenth is known by many names. It’s officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, but is also known as Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, and Black Independence Day. On that day we commemorate the emancipation of enslaved persons of African descent and celebrate the richness of the African-American culture.
Holding people accountable, by Ben Jealous
Some extremely important truth-telling is happening in Washington, D.C. right now.
Thursday, June 9
Coco Gauff’s ranking jumps to career-high 13th
American teenager Coco Gauff rose to a career-best No. 13 in the WTA rankings on Monday after her runner-up finish to No. 1 Iga Swiatek at the French Open.
Baltimore to host more CIAA championship games, events
CIAA basketball fans will become more acquainted with downtown Baltimore and its Inner Harbor.
The boys are back in town
The Richmond Flying Squirrels are in the midst of a six-game Eastern League series at The Diamond. They are taking on the Erie Seawolves, the Class AA affiliate of the Detroit Tigers.
Nadine Domond brings her coaching skills to VSU
For the first time in a long time, Virginia State University will have a new head women’s basketball coach on the sidelines.
Lakers’ new head coach once made headlines for his moves in Richmond
Richmonders may recall Darvin Ham. As a member of the Texas Tech Red Raiders in March, 1996, Ham demonstrated the most emphatic slam dunk in the annals of the Richmond Coliseum.
Union Presbyterian Seminary given grant to develop park
Union Presbyterian Seminary has received a $1,000 grant to help develop its new Yaupon Place Eco-Park in Richmond’s Northside.
RPS music program nationally recognized
Richmond Public Schools has received the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.
Area school districts review safety measures after Uvalde school shootings
The May 24 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, has prompted local school systems to review their safety measures.
Former city nursing home to become 86 apartments
Ground was finally broken on June 1 to officially start the conversion of Richmond’s former nursing home into 86 units of housing for low-income individuals who also receive on-site supportive services from Faith Community Baptist Church and other partners.
RPS Spring 2022 Graduation Dates
All graduations will take place at Richmond’s Flying Squirrels Diamond Stadium, 3001 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd.
Six ‘Strong Men & Women’ recognized for leadership and lasting impact
A union leader who fought for Black railroad workers, a self-trained civil rights attorney, and an advocate for women in science and technology are among six African Americans whose work will be honored by Dominion Energy and the Library of Virginia on June 16 at the Richmond Marriott.
GRTC’s ad policy struck down
When an animal rights group wanted to pay GRTC to carry its message opposing publicly funded experiments on dogs and other animals, the company said, “No way” in rejecting it as too political.
Federal judges deny bid for House elections, but a new suit may change that
There is still a slim prospect that elections for the Virginia House of Delegates could be held this year.
Dance, jazz, theater and Prince highlight Festival of the Arts
Two popular local bands will launch Richmond’s largest lineup of free summer entertainment, including the annual Fourth of July festival and fireworks.
Trojans’ first home game to cover new turf
Virginia State University will have a new football coach and a new football field to start the 2022 season.
Civil rights advocate Xernona Clayton is still ‘fearless’
A key aide to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. who helped sustain the civil rights movement in the 1960s says she’s deeply saddened by the hate crimes seeking to terrorize people across America. But Xernona Clayton has been working for racial harmony since the movement began, and refuses to accept mass killings as routine.
Longtime VCU executive assistant dies
Antoinette Louise Best Dickerson was ‘values-driven and even-keeled’
For three decades, Antoinette Louise Best Dickerson worked behind the scenes to help keep Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of the Arts humming.
Personality: Sanaa Hayes
Spotlight on Richmond Public Schools top 2022 valedictorian with 5.03 GPA
It was in early May when Sanaa Hayes learned that she was an extraordinary academic achiever, not just for her high school, but the entire Richmond Public Schools system.
In historic shift, far fewer teens face adult U.S. courts
David Harrington spent a tense eight months in a Philadelphia jail when he was a teenager — the result of a robbery charge in 2014 that automatically sent his case to the adult court system under state law.
An occasion for his honor
S. Bernard Goodwyn is second African-American to serve as chief justice
The investiture of S. Bernard Goodwyn as chief justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia took place Wednesday in the Chambers of the Supreme Court of Virginia before family, friends, colleagues and fellow Supreme Court of Virginia Justices at 100 N. 9th St.
Strategist suggests Richmond voters will support casino funds earmarked for schools
Political strategist Paul Goldman sees a path for Richmond to recover from the stinging political defeat it has suffered at the General Assembly after a bipartisan coalition rejected the state capital city’s plans for a second vote to bring a $565 million casino-resort to South Side.
Jan. 6 hearings a plea to defend democracy, by Jesse L. Jackson Sr.
On Thursday evening, June 9, the House Select Committee investigating the sacking of The Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 will hold the first of its primetime, televised public hearings.
City’s housing options need a dose of creativity
One of the biggest challenges facing Richmond is how to build affordable apartment units and homes.
Juneteenth events and weekend activities
Richmond area residents who plan to participate in events and activities that will commemorate Virginia’s Juneteenth holiday have several choices. The federal holiday is on June 20.
Thursday, June 2
Will Kendrick Lamar’s new release net win for Warriors?
If Steph Curry is the Golden State Warriors’ good luck charm on the floor, then Kendrick Lamar may be the team’s four-leaf clover off it.
Juneteenth Concert is a ‘Celebration of Freedom’
Juneteenth (or Freedom Day) will be celebrated in its truest sense at St. James’s Episcopal Church at 5 p.m. June 19 at the church, 1205 W. Franklin St. This event features a spectacular “Freedom Day Organ Recital” performed by renowned organist Dr. Carl Haywood, playing music he composed just for the occasion.
Personality: Walter M. Dotts III
Spotlight on board chair of Branch Museum of Architecture
For Walter Maxwell Dotts III, the preservation and improvement of architecture and design in Virginia’s capital has always been a family affair.
Jury indicts Buffalo shooting suspect on terrorism charge
A grand jury on Wednesday charged the white 18-year-old accused of fatally shooting 10 Black people at a Buffalo supermarket with domestic terrorism motivated by hate and 10 counts of first degree murder.
System failure
RPS loses thousands of laptops
Richmond Public Schools wasted millions of federal support dollars buying 20,000 extra Chromebook laptop computers it didn’t need after going virtual during the pandemic, an internal audit has found.
Making moves
Delegate Don Scott Jr. new Democratic House leader
In just two years, Democratic Delegate Don Scott Jr. has done the extraordinary— leaping from novice legislator to House Minority Leader.
Mayor Stoney and city developers missing mark on Diamond District plans
For the past two decades, I have been outspoken about the city failing to carry out the wishes of Arthur Ashe to build an African-American museum honoring the legacy African-American athletic achievement by way of his well-researched classic book series, “Hard Road to Glory.” In my view, such a facility, with the addition of an indoor sports complex, would be such a major game changer for the city to reap major tourist and revenue benefits for decades to come.
No vacation from education, by Julianne Malveaux
Students everywhere are anticipating, or already experiencing, their summer vacation. It means freedom from daily classes and the opportunity to break, “chill” and perhaps attend a summer program for many. We know, however, that there is knowledge erosion over the summer, especially for students who don’t continue to read or learn.
Biden puts bans on policing, by Marc H. Morial
“Our criminal justice system must respect the dignity and rights of all persons and adhere to our fundamental obligation to ensure fair and impartial justice for all. This is imperative — not only to live up to our principles as a Nation, but also to build secure, safe, and healthy communities. Protecting public safety requires close partnerships between law enforcement and the communities it serves. Public safety therefore depends on public trust, and public trust in turn requires that our criminal justice system as a whole embodies fair and equal treatment, transparency, and accountability.” President Biden, Executive Order on Advancing Effective, Accountable Policing and Criminal Justice Practices to Enhance Public Trust and Public Safety.
Much has changed, much remains in newsrooms
The news business is consumed by constant disrup- tors and interruptions. So much so that non-breaking news often gets tossed aside. I should know. Twice in the past two weeks an announcement about me coming aboard as managing editor for the Richmond Free Press was kicked to the curb in favor of major, breaking news. As it should be. No one wants to read about journalists when mass shootings, gun violence and a deadly pandemic continue to wreak havoc locally and throughout the country. Add to that soaring gas prices, babies lacking basics, and a trip to the grocery store akin to a five-course dinner or luxury hotel stay. When such tragedies occur and wallets are hijacked, journalists should be covering them rather than focusing on themselves. This week the news has been a little less jarring, providing time for me to reflect on my new role in a city that I moved to in 1981. Back then, I accepted an offer to work at Richmond’s afternoon daily newspaper, intrigued that the City Council was predominantly Black, which indicated to me that the city was progressive. While that remains a matter of debate among many, I will say that having left Richmond in 2011 to teach Black college students in my hometown of Greensboro, N.C., I was elated to return here five years later. I missed my favorite haunts, my home in a quiet neighborhood, my fun-loving, quirky friends, my church, my sorority and my museums. Upon returning, I continued to teach at various uni- versities but experienced profound joy as a substitute teacher in Henrico County. I completed a book about Black women journalists. I also started a nonprofit me- dia organization and spent several years as a freelance reporter and editor for publications that included the Richmond Free Press. My first few days as the Free Press managing editor were chaotic to say the least. Having just returned from a restful vacation in Hilton Head, S.C. and Savannah, Ga. — you know, the city that Hyundai just chose over Virginia’s Pittsylvania County to spend $5.5 billion and hire more than 8,000 workers — I was tossed into a sea of local, state and national news that I’d not experienced since ...last February. That was when, for two weeks, I served as the Free Press guest editor in the absence of the newspaper’s former managing editor. That also was when, during Black History Month, Virginia’s newly inaugurated governor caused a furor with his condemnation of critical race theory and had folks fired up about a “tip line” to snitch on classroom teachers who dared to teach the truth about American history and slavery. The furor almost made the Ralph Northam 2019 black face debacle appear quaint. (Note to Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin who made his fortune at one of the world’s most influential private equity firms: Don’t you think that time spent dissing teachers could have been better spent helping Pittsylvania County, decimated for more than a decade by furniture industry losses, secure that $5.5 billion Hyundai deal?) Before my recent re-entry into the newsroom, it had been nearly 25 years since I was a full time newspaper employee. Although much has changed since then, many aspects of the industry remain. The decline of daily newspapers began with buyouts and mergers in the early 1990s, around the same time that the Richmond Free Press was born. The dissolution of newsrooms continues today in the form of tight budgets, lean staffs, 24/7 hour news cycles and decreased circulation. Although the Free Press is a weekly newspaper, our mission is similar to that of daily print publications and online outlets. Still in the game, we are deadline driven, truth seekers and zealous about serving Richmond and surrounding communities. We are a Black-owned news- paper and revel in our reputation for providing relevant information for and about Richmond’s Black commu- nity. We also delight in knowing that our newspapers, more often than not, are consumed by many non-Black readers, too. Our staff is small, but mighty. A cadre of talented freelance reporters and photographers stand ready to support us when needed and we are proud of their presence. I remain honored and humbled (and somewhat speech- less) by an invitation from Jean P. Boone, Richmond Free Press president and publisher, to lead the Free Press. In accepting my new role, I am the second editor to do so since the death of Richmond Free Press Founder Raymond H. Boone. Never did I envision being in this position once occupied by a man whose backbone was made of steel, whose mind was sharper than any sword, and whose heart was good as gold. Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Boone for allowing me — a woman who penned her first newspaper article for a Black newspaper, The Carolina Peacemaker, as a col- lege student in 1977 — to lead your life’s passion and tireless work in its continuing journey. It is my hope and prayer that you, dear readers and new readers, will continue this journey with us.
’Collective Rage’ features 5 Betties
Richmond Triangle Players will close its 2021-22 season with “Collective Rage: A Play in 5 Betties,” which has been described as “one of Broadway’s wildest and wackiest comedies.”
Benedictine’s Starlings heads to Chapel Hill
Joel Starlings is taking his football talents — as well as his 6-foot-5, 310-pound frame — to Chapel Hill, N.C.
VSU baseball players to join Tri-City squad
Virginia State University will be well represented in this sum- mer’s Tri-City Chili Peppers, a collegiate squad that competes in the Coastal Plain League.
Petersburg’s legendary basketball coach Carl Edward Peal dies
Moses Malone was among the players he helped shine Benedictine’s Starlings heads to Chapel Hill
Carl Edward Peal, perhaps known best as being Moses Malone’s basketball coach at Petersburg High School, died Thursday, May 16, 2022. He was 94 and living in Richmond.
Twinning
VCU’s French tennis players named ITA All-Americans
The Bertimon twins prove you don’t have to be born in America to become All-Americans.
John Marshall’s players reveal college courts
Three John Marshall High basketball athletes are taking their jump shots to the next level.
Youth baseball league opens 56th season
The Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL) will open its 56th season 9:45 a.m. Saturday, June 4, at Hotchkiss Field, 701 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Episcopal Diocese of Maryland distributes $175,000 in reparations grants
The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland has made an inaugural grant distribution of $175,000 after church members overwhelmingly approved a reparations fund a year and a half ago.
Richmond’s chance of landing a casino still awaits Petersburg report
Richmond could still hold a second vote in November seeking authorization to bring a casino-resort to South Side, but the outcome appears likely to be meaningless even if a majority of those who cast ballots back the proposed $565 million project this time around.
City council extends tax deadline, provides winning formula for babies
Richmond residents have gained a 60-day extension on the deadline to pay vehicle taxes and the city license fee on vehicles, and hundreds of Richmond mothers frantically seeking to buy baby formula will gain significant help through a new initiative.
Virginia’s pandemic benefit program to issue school meals to limited households
Virginia students who were absent from school from September to October last year due to COVID-19 can now receive free school meals.
Pinkett Smith talks hair loss ‘shame,’ outcome of Oscars slap
Jada Pinkett Smith turned her husband’s Oscar-night blowup into a teachable moment about alopecia areata, the hair loss disorder affecting her and millions of others that, in some cases, can impact a person’s sense of identity.
Tappahannock to remove Confederate figure
Following in Richmond’s footsteps, an Eastern Virginia community is about to remove a Confederate monument that has dominated the courthouse area for more than a century.
Film festival to offer showings at Byrd Theatre and Bowtie Cinema
The Richmond International Film Festival, one of the largest competitive film festivals in the Mid-Atlantic, returns to Richmond June 7 through 12.
Richmond Public Schools announces graduation schedule
In the coming weeks, hundreds of Richmond Public Schools seniors will hit a home run as they cross the stage to receive their diplomas at The Diamond baseball stadium. Scheduled graduations will take place between June 13 and 15.
The need for high-speed internet is on City Council’s agenda
Expanding broadband connections across the city. That is a key goal of City Hall’s new Strategic Plan for Equitable Economic Development or SPEED.
Probe ends of Richmond Electoral Board members
The two Democratic members of the Richmond Electoral Board are keeping their posts following a lengthy probe into their handling of the 2000 presidential election during the COVID-19pandemic. They are James M. Nachman, who chairs the board, and Joyce K. Smith, vice chair, who was re-elected in February.
Covid-19 cases going unreported
Amid a rise in COVID-19 cases and deaths in Virginia and nationally, a gap in reported positive cases has continued throughout Virginia, one that has persisted as the approach to monitoring the worst of the virus and testing for infection has changed and expanded, locally and statewide.
Youngkin snubs lawmakers’ efforts to support tenants
Landlords have always held the upper hand when it comes to evicting people. Republican Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin is keeping it that way, according to advocates for tenants.
Publisher announces new managing editor
I am pleased to announce that Bonnie Newman Davis has been appointed managing editor of the Richmond Free Press following the resignation of Bonnie Winston, who served in that role for seven years. Ms. Davis began her tenure with the Free Press on May 16.
Sidney DuPont finds a ‘powerful, dynamic and necessary’ role
Sidney DuPont knew he’d made the right career decision when musical theater icon Chita Rivera not only threw a shoe at him but also slapped his face.
