Thursday, March 30
Hickory Hill community opposes planned fire training facility
In a retreat from a two-year-old policy of expanding parks and green space in overly hot South Side, Mayor Levar M. Stoney and his administration are quietly pressing to replace 2 acres of lawn at the Hickory Hill Community Center in South Side with a $1 million fire training building.
Bagby wins Va. Senate special election
Henrico Democratic Delegate Lamont Bagby, as anticipated, crushed Republican rival Stephen J. “Steve” Imholt in Tuesday’s voting for a Richmond-area seat in the state Senate.
‘We will stand for you’
Remembrances, calls for reform at funeral for Irvo Otieno
Family, friends and other mourners gathered Wednesday at a Virginia church to remember Irvo Otieno at a funeral service, celebrating his life and calling for mental health care and policing reforms after the 28-year-old Black man’s death earlier this month while in custody at a state psychiatric hospital.
Richmond’s Randall Robinson reshaped American’s foreign policy, forced change in South Africa
Seared by the segregation he grew up with in Richmond, Randall Maurice Robinson championed change in American policies toward African and the Caribbean nations that he considered unjust and undergirded by racial bias.
Personality: Shirley H. Scarborough
Spotlight on Cry Loud, Spare Not, Speak Up founder
For the past two years Shirley H. Scarborough has worked, in her own words, to create “Beauty for Ashe,” through her organization Cry Loud, Spare Not, Speak Up.
Can’t stop dancing
NCAA’s Final Four
Something missing here? For the first time since the NCAA basketball tournament began in 1939, there are zero No. 1 seeds remaining in the Final Four.
Richmonders want funding for schools, housing, less gas
Fund the full request for Richmond Public Schools. Improve our parks. Fully fund the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and fund repairs for decaying mobile homes. Protect the environment by planning for elimination of the city’s gas utility. Those were among the ways that least 20 speakers urged City Council to amend the 2023-24 budget plan at a public hearing Monday night.
Pine Camp theater program enhances students’ confidence, world view
A program at Richmond’s Pine Camp Cultural Arts and Community Center is helping students learn job readiness skills by using theater as a backdrop to encourage creativity and self
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:
5 student honorees at VUU gala
Virginia Union University students will take center stage and five honorees will be recognized for their contributions during the upcoming Legacy Awards and Scholarship gala on Friday, March 31.
RRHA seeks additional funds to maintain public housing
The city’s public housing authority needs to invest $42 million to fix the most urgent problems with roofs, boilers, plumbing, wiring and other aging infrastructure in the apartment communities it operates in Richmond, according the chief executive, Steven B. Nesmith.
NSU’s associate coach is one to watch
Jasmine Young is building an impressive résumé as an up- and-coming women’s basketball coach.
University of Richmond has new provost
Joan Saab will become executive vice president for academic affairs and provost for the University of Richmond effective July 1.
Upcoming exhibits seeks Vietnam War stories
March 29 was National Vietnam War Veterans Day, and this year the day marked the 50th anniversary of the withdrawal of the last American troops from South Vietnam. As Americans reflect on the service and sacrifices of Vietnam War veterans, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) is asking Virginians with personal connections to the Vietnam War to share their stories for a new exhibition.
2 Richmond principals recognized for leadership
Richmond Public Schools Principal Ta’Neshia Ford is the recipient of the 2023 R.E.B. Award for Distinguished Educational Leadership.
Local entrepreneurs recognized at awards gala
In a “Roaring ‘20s” themed event, the Metropolitan Business League recognized area entrepreneurs at the 33rd Annual MBL Awards Dinner & Reception. Nearly 500 guests attended the March 10 affair at the Altria Theater.
James Solomon Russell Day celebrated with new documentary
Twenty-three years after the end of the Civil War, the Rev. James Solomon Russell founded Saint Paul Normal and Industrial School in Lawrenceville. He did so knowing how much the town and surrounding areas longed to educate its residents who longed to read and write.
Black History Museum names new executive director
Shakia Gullette Warren will become the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia’s new executive director following an extensive national search. Her appointment is effective May 1.
The battle for parental rights and government oversight remains alive
Huguenot High School’s library functions as a type of escape from the pressures of student life, a place where students can come and “chill out,” as librarian Kevin Murray puts it. He doesn’t give out grades or assign homework, so it makes sense why so many students like spending their time there, a serene space away from the bustling halls of high school.
Youngkin spikes restoration of voting rights
The roughly 1,000 people a month released from Virginia prisons are no longer having their voting rights restored almost automatically.
A Black woman’s unequal cost of protesting, by Julianne Malveaux
The 45th president is in the news again, facing indictments in New York and Georgia for criminal behavior regarding illegally paying a porn star (New York) and election tampering (Georgia).
Conservative groups don’t speak for all moms, by Svante Myrick
As Women’s History Month comes to a close, I’ve been thinking about moms and honoring motherhood. I’ve written before about how my mom instilled values in me, including respect for everyone’s rights – not just my own. Mom also worked multiple jobs to support our family through some very hard times. She represents my ideal of what a mother should be, without a doubt.
Jennifer McClellan’s leadership skills in Virginia will be critical in Washington, by Reginald Stuart
When Richmond area voters elected former Virginia State Sen. Jennifer McClellan to Congress last month, the new federal responsibilities for the veteran state lawmaker were already on the agenda for the seasoned politician.
Justices’ court rulings continue - JM’s Dennis Parker Jr. named Player of the Year
Jaedyn Cook named to All-State first team
In what may be an unprecedented achievement, all five of John Marshall High’s starters were named to the Class 2, All-State first team.
NBA legend Willis Reed dies at age 80
He led the Knicks to titles in 1970 and 1973
Willis Reed, who belongs in any conversation about the greatest HBCU basketball players of all time, died Tuesday, March 21, 2023, of heart failure. The Grambling State and New York Knicks legend was 80.
People to see, places to go!
Looking for something to do or new experiences in the weeks ahead? Here are just a few of the upcoming fun events and adventures:
Former record store owner remembered
William F. “Bill” Kennedy, founder and owner of BK Music, a record store in Richmond’s South Side, died Tuesday, March 14, 2023, after a bout with pneumonia. Mr. Kennedy, who was 70, had decades of experience in the music industry having worked for Harmony Hut and Peaches Music and Video before opening his own store in the Stratford Hills Shopping Center in 2001.
Thursday, March 23
Lamont Bagby viewed as favorite in Tuesday’s special Senate election
Henrico Democratic Delegate Lamont Bagby is poised to become the newest state senator from the Richmond area.
‘Just trying to breathe’
Video shows Irvo Otieno pinned to floor before his death
A large group of sheriff’s deputies and employees of a Virginia mental hospital pinned patient Irvo Otieno to the floor earlier this month until he was motionless and limp, then began unsuccessful resuscitation efforts, newly obtained surveillance video shows.
Helen Harris, a leading voice for Henrico County’s Black residents, remembered
‘Her leadership and tireless advocacy made the county a more inclusive and equitable place’
Thanks to Helen Virginia Epps Harris, Henrico County annually celebrates the holiday in honor of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and also has dramatically increased its hiring of Black employees. Her impact on public policy is just part of the influence she wielded during a life that her family said was devoted to service to others and fueled by a desire to see Black people advance and thrive. Mrs. Harris’ multiple contributions to community betterment are being remembered following her death on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at age 83.
Personality: Margaret Rose ‘Meg’ Medina
Spotlight on National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature
Amid ongoing campaigns against certain kinds of literature in the United States, Margaret Rose “Meg” Medina has been given a new platform and new responsibility to champion the value of the written word.
VCU loses to Saint Mary’s 63-51 in NCAA West opener
Ace Baldwin’s injury makes losing more painful
VCU’s exceptional basketball season ended with a resounding, “What if?”
Bubba’s Block Party returns
NASCAR driver William D. “Bubba” Wallace will again host a block party for the Richmond community as part of the return of racing to the track in Henrico County, it has been announced.
Ambulance charges may dramatically increase
$600 trips to medical centers could more than double
City Hall is pressuring the Richmond Ambulance Authority to nearly triple its charge for transporting patients to hospitals or other treatment centers based on a consulting firm’s recommendation, the Free Press has learned.
Free testing, vaccines for COVID-19
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:
Change must come
I woke up hearing the weeping of people in lieu of all the senseless crime that has taken place. I humbly ask that you would put this in the Richmond Free Press, inspired by God.
Is popular PAL program ‘in limbo’?
Will the Richmond Police Athletic League offer spring and summer programs for the city’s youths?
VDOE says it will work with federal special education office on compliance issues
The Virginia Department of Education is prepared to cooperate with a federal office that found the state agency failing to comply with elements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Youngkin appoints Lisa Coons as superintendent of public instruction
Gov. Glenn Youngkin on Wednesday announced the appointment of Tennessee Chief Academic Officer Lisa Coons as Virginia’s 27th superintendent of public instruction. Dr. Coons’ appointment as the commonwealth’s chief school officer is effective Monday, April 17.
Senseless
United Communities Against Crime, a local nonprofit organization run by Charles Willis, held a prayer vigil Thursday, March 16, 2023, for Tyrek Brandon, 21, who was murdered at the corner of Hull and 16th streets on Richmond’s South Side on March 6, 2023.
RPS proposes metal detectors and other devices to offset gun violence
In the wake of the shooting and deaths of multiple Richmond Public Schools students and ongoing concerns about school safety, RPS leaders are considering an estimated $1.3 million plan to expand the use of metal detectors in the city’s school system.
To Gov. Youngkin:
History will not be kind to anyone who adopts a pro-ignorance stand when it comes to the true history of this country, warts and all.
Researchers uncover their tangled roots
Lemon Project symposium to help connect the past
Virginia lawyer and retired public official Viola Baskerville has been intrigued by her family’s roots for more than 35 years.
Enrichmond groups may receive City Hall funding
City Hall has tucked $250,000 into that proposed 2023-24 budget that could help dozens of nonprofits groups that lost money when the Enrichmond Foundation collapsed last year.
Jason Rivera Torres has ‘Swagger’ on and off the court
When it comes to Jason Rivera Torres, he’s all about a full court press.
Black people can’t breathe
Two years ago a National Public Radio investigation showed that, since 2015, at least 135 unarmed Black men and women nationwide were fatally shot by police officers. At least 75 percent of the police officers were white.
SVB bank failure isn’t about being ‘woke’, by Julianne Malveaux
The Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), the 16th largest bank in the United States, failed because its leaders used poor judgment in making ill-advised investments.
Technology bridges equitable access in Va., by Shara Gibson
Access to technology is a vital step in ensuring equitable opportunities for everyone, specifically when it comes to minority small business owners. Our country relies on the entrepreneurial spirit that the “American Dream” has inspired in all of us, and access to technology is the backbone of creating successful and sustainable businesses.
‘That was Karl’
Thank you for letting your readers know of the death of Karl Bren in your March 2-4, 2023, edition.
Bon Secours opening new South Side health clinic
Bon Secours is opening a new community health clinic in South Side to serve uninsured children and adults, although new nonprofits already operate similar clinics nearby.
Chesterfield announces housing choice vouchers
The waiting list for Virginia Housing and the Chesterfield- Colonial Heights Department of Social Services’ housing choice vouchers opens Thursday, March 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for anyone who wants to submit an application.
JM Justices shoot for national title
John Marshall High has a state basketball title. Now it’s aiming for a national crown.
VUU’s Butler, Osborne heading to Houston
The basketball season isn’t over yet for Virginia Union Coach Jay Butler and senior standout Robert Osborne.
Youngkin announces affordable housing loans
The state will lend more than $18 million to create 10 affordable, income-restricted housing developments in the Richmond area, Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin has announced.
Britton Wilson wins open 400 meters, 4 x 400 relay
Britton Wilson struck gold twice in leading Arkansas to the NCAA Women’s Indoor Track and Field Championships in Albuquerque, N.M., on March 11.
Versatility defines Princeton’s Tosan Evbuomwan
NCAA March Madness is known for its heartwarming, underdog Cinderella stories. This year’s “Cinderella” wears pink shoelaces, speaks with an English accent, and has a name many mispronounce.
Antoine Craig named Sports Ambassador by the USABA
Being blind hasn’t stopped Antoine Craig from achieving much success. Now he hopes to encourage others to do likewise.
‘Art in the Atrium’
The Richmond Chapter, The Links hosted its 11th Biennial Auction “Art in the Atrium” on March 18 at The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The Links is a national volunteer service organization whose members are “concerned, committed, talented and professional” Black women” who enhance the quality of life in the larger community.”
Dorothy Height birthday celebration
The 11lth birthday of civil rights great Dorothy Irene Height will be celebrated at a public ceremony at 10:45 a.m. Friday, March 24, at the Hull Street Branch Library, 1400 Hull St.
Rev. Clifford B. Chambliss Jr. dies at 81
The Rev. Clifford Boss Chambliss Jr. was just 25 when he was tapped to lead a new job training initiative that more senior Black min- isters were organizing to help people find work and escape poverty.
Virginia Hayes remembered for her creative teaching
As a kindergarten and first grade teacher at Blackwell Elementary School, Virginia Hayes was concerned that too many children arrived with little knowledge of numbers, counting and the concepts of adding and subtracting. Ms. Hayes set out to change that in the early 1990s.
Thursday, March 16
Personality: Alma W. Hughes
Spotlight on One Voice Chorus board president
Despite a few years of unexpected turbulence, Alma W. Hughes has led and sustained a Richmond-based musical group while forging deep connections among its members and the community.
JM’s Justices win third state crown since 2018
Coach Ty White’s team crushes Radford 91-34
The Class 2 State final was more showtime than showdown.
‘All-cause mortality’
Spikes in youth mortality and violence linked to homicide, suicide, drugs and truancy
A series of shootings in Richmond last week has sparked renewed calls for solutions to end gun violence. The urgent cries come as new research shows growing rates of death among young people throughout the country.
Council members link truancy to increased violence involving city youths
Richmond Public Schools needs to do more to ensure students are in class rather than roaming the streets, according to concerned members of City Council.
Special education troubles continue for Virginia
VDOE labeled ‘deficient’ in its efforts to curtail learning loss
The Virginia Department of Education continues to shirk its responsibility to ensure students with mental and emotional disabilities secure a free, appropriate public education, or FAPE in educational jargon, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
Richmond gets Sassy
Richmond’s global connections: Blending culture and fashion to fight famine, menstrual poverty
When Sassy Jones opened a flagship location in Short Pump Town Center last October, it gave the brand’s loyal online community a home they could come to and enjoy shopping the products they loved in a new way — in person.
Malinda S. Jones, who worked to spread faith, dies at 88
For 24 years, Malinda Smith Jones organized weekly revivals in Richmond in church parking lots and other open spaces from June through August.
Richmond city attorney to retire
City Attorney Haskell C. Brown III will immediately leave City Hall’s top legal post in the wake of his arrest for drunken driving, the Free Press has learned.
Henrico County deputies charged in man’s death at mental hospital
Seven Virginia sheriff’s office employees have been charged with second degree murder in connection with the death of a 28-year-old man at a state mental hospital last week, a local prosecutor said Tuesday.
COVID-19 Remembrance Day
COVID-19 Remembrance Day on Tuesday drew people throughout Richmond to Virginia Union University’s Bell Tower.
Free vaccines for COVID-19 continues
The Richmond and Henrico health districts are offering free vaccines for COVID-19 and more at the following locations:
Gandy name may be eliminated by Hanover School Board
The Hanover School Board is moving to eliminate the name of John M. Gandy, the only Black person for whom a county school is named.
RPS essay winners receive cash awards
Three RPS students received cash awards for their winning submissions to the Game Changer writing contest sponsored by the Richmond Crusade for Voters and Richmond Public Schools.
NIH awards $27M to VCU’s Wright Center
The National Institutes of Health has awarded Virginia Commonwealth University a seven-year, $27 million grant to provide new therapy techniques “to the community” and to reduce regional health disparities.
UR receives $250K NIH grant for redlining research
Rob Nelson will explore racially motivated housing and health inequities
Robert K. Nelson, director of the Digital Scholarship Lab at the University of Richmond, has been awarded nearly $250,000 from the National Institutes of Health to study the impact of redlining — racially-motivated lending discrimination — on health inequalities.
RPS student is local Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year
Richmond Community High School senior A’landa Macklin has been selected as the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Richmond Youth of the Year. As a result, she will receive a $10,000 scholarship and is eligible to compete at the state level.
Level Up accepting applications for podcasting program
Applications are now open for the Level Up Academy, a summer podcast intensive created by the VPM + ICA Community Media Center to provide high quality teaching and opportunities for young adults in Richmond.
New HIV treatment facility opens in Henrico
CrossOver Healthcare Ministry opened the doors to its new HIV treatment facility Wednesday morning, ringing in the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Leadership summit will amplify student voices
Some 600 Richmond-area high school students will attend Teen Summit RVA at the Greater Richmond Convention Center on March 18.
Richmond Fire Department blazing through recruiting
When it comes to recruiting, the Richmond Department of Fire and Emergency Services stands head and shoulders above the rest of the city’s public safety departments.
RRHA’s eviction rate increases
Housing unit applies ‘tough love’ to collect tenants’ back rent
Richmond’s public housing landlord continues to proceed more slowly than private landlords in seeking to oust residents who have built up large, unpaid rent balances.
City Council approves solar program grant
A nonprofit group that has sought to prepare people to work in the burgeoning solar power field has gained financial help from City Hall.
No debt deal = doom
The clock is ticking on a potentially serious financial crisis that could affect you and your family.
Propaganda machine called Fox News, by David W. Marshall
In 2021, the bill to award gold medals to the U. S. Capitol Police officers who responded to the Jan. 6 insurrection passed, despite 21 GOP lawmakers voting against it.
A historic vote and tools it gave us, by Ben Jealous
Vice President Kamala Harris is sure to be remembered every March in Women’s History Month as the first woman and the first person of color to serve our nation in that position. As notable as those two facts are, she may grow to be known just as much for a single vote in the Senate that helped save the planet.
Former state registrar had no ‘personal decision’ in same-gender law
I am writing to address what I consider an inaccurate representation of my making a personal decision to deny same-gender parents’ names on a birth certificate. This representation, announcing the retirement of Janet Rainey, was in an article in the Richmond Free Press, March 9-11, 2023, edition.
On the road again
VCU beats Dayton 68-56 to win A-10 championship, NCAA bid
VCU heads back to New York, only this time it will be to the state capital of Albany rather than to Brooklyn.
Kenny Brooks is Virginia Tech’s first Black coach to win women’s ACC crown
If the NCAA Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year was announced today, Kenny Brooks might be a leading contender.
VUU succumbs to third-ranked IUP 60-45
The curtain fell on Virginia Union University’s outstanding basketball season late Sunday night in Indiana, Pa.
Howard wins MEAC title 65-64 over NSU
For the first time in three seasons, Norfolk State’s Spartans won’t be kicking up their heels at the NCAA Big Dance. But for the first time since 1992, Howard’s Bison will.
James Patterson shines in ECC win
You don’t have to play basketball at a large high school to become a college star. James Patterson is proof of that.
Cicilia Koisenke visits Richmond to nurture her Maasai home
Nearly 14 years ago, Richmonder Suzanne Hall traveled to Southern Sudan as part of a St. James’s Episcopal Church medical mission to administer meningitis vaccinations to children in that region.
Richmond jazz legend has new release
William F. ‘Bill’ McGee has performed with The O’Jays, Fred Wesley, Patti LaBelle and more
Richmond-based jazz legend and civil rights leader William F. “Bill” McGee is releasing his latest CD, “Tree of Life,” Friday, March 17, through music streaming services and the website he owns and operates, 804jazz.com.
The Links present ‘Art in the Atrium’
The Richmond Chapter of The Links will host its 11th Biennial Auction “Art in the Atrium” on Saturday, March 18, from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Honorary co-chairs are Dr. Pamela K. Royall and Mr. Moses Foster Jr.
‘The Black Love Blue Print’ is film showcase feature
A documentary focused on the nature and complexity of black love will be the latest film showcased by the Elegba Folklore Society during its monthly film series, 3rd Saturday Documentaries.
Ruth E. Carter becomes 1st Black woman to win 2 Oscars
Ruth E. Carter made history: The costume designer behind the “Black Panther” films became the first Black woman to win two Oscars.
Bettye Jean Branch Bragg, former Head Start aide, dies at age 80
Bettye Jean Branch Bragg touched the lives of hundreds of Richmond children during her 34 years as a teacher’s aide in Head Start, a program to prepare 3 and 4-year-olds for kindergarten and higher grades.
Thursday, March 9
DPU expects to soon restart disconnection of services
Thousands of Richmond families could lose water service, sewerage and/or natural gas service in the coming months for failing to pay their bills.
Janet Rainey retires after 47 years of keeping records vital
Keeping records of the births, deaths, marriages and divorces that occur in Virginia may seem like dull work. Don’t tell that to Janet M. Rainey.
Stoney’s $3B proposal
Funding designed to make Richmond more liveable, despite increased gas, water bills
Record pay increases for Richmond city employees, along with hikes in spending on youth programming, affordable housing, public education and street paving.
McClellan becomes 1st Black Virginia woman in Congress
Democrat Jennifer L. McClellan was sworn into the U.S. House on Tuesday, becoming the first Black woman to represent Virginia in Congress.
Personality: Alexander L. Taylor Jr.
Spotlight on Military Retirees Club fundraising chair
In 2022, retired Army Col. Alexander L. Taylor Jr. committed himself to a different kind of military service. A trial attorney, Mr. Taylor joined Richmond’s Military Retirees Club during its 50th anniversary celebration in June.
A brief history of the Black church’s diversity, and its vital role in American political history, by Jason Evans
With religious affiliation on the decline, continuing racism and increasing income inequality, some scholars and activists are soul-searching about the Black church’s role in today’s United States.
Brad Daugherty makes history in Daytona race
In case you weren’t watching, a Black man won the Daytona 500. And it wasn’t Bubba Wallace, NASCAR’s most prominent Black driver.
Antoine Davis approaching Pete Maravich’s scoring record
It might not be over yet for Antoine Davis.
When and where she enters
The joy, camaraderie and pride expressed by Virginians and thousands of others throughout the United States to Rep. Jennifer L. McClellan becoming the first Black woman elected to represent Virginia in the U.S. Congress continued to pour in the day after her official swearing-in ceremony in Washington on Tuesday, March 7.
RPS to launch 200-day school year in July
Fairfield Court Elementary School is the first Richmond Public School that will participate in the district’s 200-day school year pilot program, beginning July 24.
American Federation of Government Workers union officials removed
Turmoil in the 2,500-member union representing workers at the Richmond Veterans Administration Medical Center in South Side is offering a cautionary tale for city employees who are now in the process of unionizing.
Richmond’s affordable housing remains elusive
“We thought Richmond had a win” was a common refrain during a recent City Council meeting, as community and faith leaders called on council members to address ongoing issues with housing in Richmond and follow through on commitments made to address it.
First grader’s art shows natural talent
Ava Johnson, a first-grader at Miles J. Jones Elementary School, has won an award for the school division in the VCU Metro Arts show. Her work also has been part of an exhibit at Artworks Gallery on Southside.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:
Linwood Holton principal resigns
Dr. Nikea Hurt resigned from her role as the principal of Linwood Holton Elementary School last week after being absent for several months on family medical leave. Her departure was about four months shy of her fifth anniversary as leader of the school.
Henrico woman’s invention provides clearer thermometer reads
Where do ideas for inventions come from? For Henrico County resident Casaundra L. Pugh, the eureka moment came during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Toni Morrison honored with new stamp unveiled at Princeton
Nobel laureate Toni Morrison is now forever immortalized on a stamp honoring the prolific writer, editor, scholar and mentor that was unveiled Tuesday morning in a tribute at Princeton University, where she taught for almost two decades.
Talking trash
Just the facts. That’s all that voters and television viewers want from Gov. Glenn Youngkin. And a little backbone and truth to go along with them.
Greene’s ‘national divorce’ would be disaster for the South, by Jesse L. Jackson Sr.
U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, now a major figure in the House Republican Caucus, is calling for a “national divorce,” that would “separate by red states and blue states and shrink the federal government.” Like her hero, Donald Trump, she claims widespread anonymous support for the idea:
‘Dilbert’ artist downfall, triggered by a reckless commentary, by Clarence Page
Scott Adams, creator of the popular “Dilbert” comic strip, has faced a backlash of cancellations after a tirade on his YouTube livestream in which he described Black people as members of “a hate group” from which white people should “get away.”
Richmond City Council invites community to thank a social worker during Richmond Social Work Month
Established last year by Richmond City Council and Mayor Levar M. Stoney, Richmond Social Work Month recognizes those who have dedicated their professional lives to helping improve the quality of life for others, especially those experiencing distress, through the delivery of positively impactful programs and services.
Applause for Encore program
I hope that other surrounding counties and the City of Richmond are taking notice of the new program Henrico County is rolling out titled Encore, which was featured in the Free Press, March 2-4 edition.
Women’s soccer league drafts high schooler Alyssa Thompson
Alyssa Thompson is an 18-year-old high school senior with a professional soccer contract.
Baseball players’ hits, strikeouts nearly uniform
Tahraun Hammond is to Virginia State University baseball what Shohei Ohtani is to the major leagues.
26-0
JM’s basketball dominance excites crowds, community
John Marshall High School’s boys’ basketball team is heading into the State 2A Finals with enough momentum to move a mountain.
New documentary commemorates James Solomon Russell
The James Solomon Russell – Saint Paul’s College Museum and Archive will host a dinner and documentary premiere from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, March 25, at the Gateway Event Center at Virginia State University.
A box office KO: ‘Creed III’ debuts to $58.7M
“Creed III” punched above its weight at the domestic box office in its first weekend in theaters.
Year after the slap, Chris Rock punches back in Netflix special
A year after Will Smith smacked him on the Academy Awards stage, Chris Rock finally gave his rebuttal in a forceful stand-up special, streamed live on Netflix, in which the comedian bragged that he “took that hit like Pacquiao.”
Art 180 opens residency applications
Young Richmond-area artists who want to polish their portfolios while in high school have a new opportunity to do so, courtesy of ART 180 and its Atlas Artist Residency. Applications for the nextAtlas Artists are now open for students in the 9th, 10th and 11th grade. The program will provide 10 students an eight-week residency over the summer, which will in- clude materials, studio space and a stipend of $1,350. The students’ residency will finish with a public exhibition of their work. Applications will be accepted until Thursday, March 16. Links to apply or more information can be found at www.art180.org/ student-artist-residency.
VCU heads to New York as No.1 seed for A-10 championship
VCU has been chewing up the competition of late, but it’s still hungry for more. Now it yearns to take a juicy bite out of the Big Apple.
Losing streak mars NSU’s MEAC entry
In another week or so, Norfolk State will either be kicking up its heels at the NCAA Big Dance, or dejectedly asking, “What if?”
Thursday, March 2
RPS superintendent’s chief of staff resigns
Michelle Hudacsko, chief of staff for Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras, has resigned.
Bagby wins ‘firehouse’ primary in quest for Senate seat
Henrico Delegate Lamont Bagby has made a fast start in his quest to succeed Jennifer L. McClellan in the state Senate.
Panthers lose CIAA tourney to Rams 45-44
VUU awaits NCAA II decision after lowest scoring game in annals
Heading north on I-95, it took Virginia Union University’s bus about two hours and 35 minutes to reach Baltimore, site of the CIAA basketball tournament. It probably felt like a lot longer coming back.
All adjourned
Lawmakers end session with lean budget and no mention of casino
Richmond casino advocates rejoiced as the General Assembly adjourned without blocking the city’s authority to hold a second referendum in November on whether the state’s capital city should host a casino-resort.
Art meets dance in Carpenter Theatre ballet
Expect to see art in a whole new way when the James River Valley Chapter of The Links brings Columbia City Ballet’s “Off the Wall and Onto the Stage: Dancing the Art of Jonathan Green” to Richmond’s Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center on March 10.
Chicago Mayor Lightfoot ousted; Vallas, Johnson in runoff
Paul Vallas and Brandon Johnson will meet in a runoff to be the next mayor of Chicago after voters denied incumbent Lori Lightfoot a second term, issuing a rebuke to a leader who made history as head of the nation’s third largest city.
Personality: Scottessa A. Hurte
Spotlight on Metropolitan Business League board chair
Scottessa A. Hurte has been a source of aid and guidance for Virginia’s small, women and minority-owned businesses during years of struggle.
Karl E. Bren, housing advocate, dies at 78
Tennessee transplant Karl Ellis Bren is being remembered for his influence and impact on affordable housing, environmental policy and homelessness during his 38 years in Richmond.
Mr. & Mrs. Stoney
Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney and Brandy Washington were married last week, according to various news sources.
Virginia Supreme Court approves ‘Waverly Two’ appeal
The Supreme Court of Virginia has approved a hearing for an appeal that could lead to the exoneration of a Sussex County man sentenced to life in jail for a murder he was acquitted of decades earlier.
Embattled RPS employee continues fight for her job
A 14-year Richmond Public Schools teacher and social worker is battling a second attempt to fire her — this time for failing to show up to work in a position that apparently never was offered to her.
Youngkin’s schools chief resigns after department missteps
Jillian Balow, Republican Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s superintendent of public instruction, announced her resignation Wednesday in a letter to the governor that did not offer a specific reason for her departure.
Florida is latest battleground for war on education, by Svante Myrick
It’s been a few weeks since a mess started boiling over in Florida with the rollout of the new AP African-American Studies course, and no one involved is looking good: not the state Department of Education, not the College Board, and definitely not Gov. Ron DeSantis, who blasted the course publicly and pressured the College Board to water it down.
Courage, by Dr. E. Faye Williams
War is inhumane! War is madness! In a world of ra- tional thinkers, war should be unnecessary! Historically, war has been the exercise of national power, authority and autonomy in the circumstance of irreconcilable difference — or the reaction to it. As with many other past conflicts, the world’s current war is the result of an irreconcilable difference conceived in the mind of an ego-stricken madman — “Fighting to be Heard” Vladimir Putin.
Emergency communications graduates 13 dispatchers to improve services
More dispatchers have joined Richmond’s 911 staff, reducing vacancies in a critical element of public safety.
Encore puts Henrico government retirees back to work
Henrico is launching a program to entice dozens of its retired county government employees to return to temporary, part-time positions to address critical staffing needs in public safety and mental health.
After campus shootings, safety is a priority for students, police
Recent murders at universities across the country have campus officials and students more cautious about campus safety.
Council raises percentage of vehicle tax owners must pay
Richmond vehicle owners can expect to see bigger personal property tax bills for their cars and trucks this year.
Warner, Kaine announce $9.7M to expand broadband at Va. HBCUs
U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner and Sen. Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $9,685,734 in federal funding to support the expansion of broadband at three Virginia Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Full-time lawmakers?
Is it time for Virginia to drop the pretense that a part-time legislature can keep up with the pace of change?
John Marshall High School basketball didn’t just get good; it’s been good for years
There has been a lot of talk about John Marshall High School lately. Some good and some bad. I stayed away because outsiders love opinions and never base things on facts. What lies behind those walls of a poorly unkept building and below that building is a strong foundation.
DHR to administer preservation easement over Drexel-Morrell Center property
A permanent preservation and open-space easement has been established for the Drexel- Morrell Center, a historic property in Powhatan County that highlights the role of African-Americans in that area, and the life and contributions of American Catholic St. Katharine Drexel, founder of two now defunct African-American academies that were located nearby.
Henrico County breaks ground for first large community park since 1982
A ground-breaking ceremony for the 99-acre Taylor Farm Park in Henrico County’s Sandston district took place Feb. 27 at 200 Whiteside Road, off East Williamsburg Road.
Baldwin’s skills, stamina, scoring work to VCU’s advantage
Adrian “Ace” Baldwin Jr. is merely the best player on the best team in the Atlantic 10.
Miles Harvey assists on and off lacrosse field
Need someone to score a lacrosse goal for you? Call Miles Harvey. Need an assist for a goal? Call Harvey. Need a warm winter coat? Dial Harvey again.
Greg Foster, world champion Olympic hurdler, dies
Greg Foster, among the greatest hurdlers in track and field history, died Feb. 19, 2023. He was 64 and suffering from amyloidosis, a heart disorder. A native Chicagoan, Mr. Foster was a three-time World Champion at 110-meter hurdles (1983, ’87, ’91) and in 1984 won the silver medal at the Los Angeles Olympics.
Angela Bassett, ‘Wakanda Forever’ top NAACP Image Awards
Angela Bassett won entertainer of the year at Saturday’s NAACP Image Awards on a night that also saw her take home an acting trophy for the television series “9-1-1.”
UPAL hosts dinner and gala
United Parents Against Lead will host a “Black Excellence Dinner and Gala” at its Peters- burg Community Resiliency Hub on March 4, from 5 to 9 p.m., 464 Byrne St.
Environmental Film Festival multiple showings, venues
The RVA Environmental Festival will feature 21 feature films during its upcoming two-week run, with all films free and open to the public.
UR’s Philip S. ‘Sam’ Deloria to discuss indigenous views of institutional racism
Sam Deloria, a 2022-23 Jepson Leader-in-Residence at the University of Richmond, is a Yankton Dakota descendant, a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe of Fort Yates, N.D., and a lifetime advocate for Native American peoples and politics.
