Thursday, November 30
How to normalize an insurrection, by Clarence Page
Well, it took long enough. House Speaker Mike Johnson has finally started releasing 44,000 hours of security footage from the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol assault that many, including me, hoped would shed more light on what really happened on that chaotic day.
Walking trail sidetracks GRTC’s speed
GRTC is creating a 10-year strategic plan for improved service across the Richmond region.
Virginia War Memorial, Navy League commemorate Pearl Harbor
The Virginia War Memorial and the Navy League of the United States, Richmond Chapter, will co-host the 82nd Commonwealth’s Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Ceremony on Dec. 7 at 11 a.m. The ceremony will be outdoors in the Memorial’s Shrine of Memory — 20th Century at 621 S. Belvidere St. The public is invited and should dress accordingly.
COVID-19 updates
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:
Getting homes winter-ready
With El Niño returning for the first time in four years, Virginia could be in for a cold, snowy winter. Chill. Help is on the way.
Richmond’s declared mayoral candidates include several business owners
Richmond voters again will have multiple choices for the next mayor of Richmond when they vote in 2024.
Councilwoman hopes proposed changes to City Charter find support
Under proposed changes to the City Charter or constitution, City Council would gain new authority over housing subsidies and real estate tax relief to residents with low to moderate incomes, in addition to setting its own compensation and modi- fying zoning. Fifth District Councilwoman Stephanie A. Lynch hopes to gain unanimous support from her eight colleagues at the Monday, Dec. 11, council meeting for the changes she has negotiated with Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s administration. If passed by the council, the package would be sent to the General Assembly for approval in the upcoming 2024 session. Many of the changes follow recommenda- tions that a council-created Richmond City Charter Review Commission submitted Aug. 2 after a year of study. As the most significant package of charter changes proposed since the 2004 creation of a mayor elected citywide, the amend- ments do not address the current relationship between the council and the mayor ahead of the 2024 elections for the governing body and chief executive. The biggest proposed change could well be the tax and housing initiatives that the charter review commission did not address. The proposed Section 2.09 amendment would allow the city to defer property taxes and tax increases for qualifying low or moderate income property owners, using the definition of such individuals established by the Virginia Housing Development Authority, now known as Virginia Housing. Such a program could allow the taxes to accumulate over time to be paid off from proceeds after the property is sold. In addition, the proposed charter change would authorize the city to create a program that could help such qualifying individu- als buy a home or receive rental subsidies. The city also could use state or federal funds to advance such initiatives. The charter amendment also would declare the creation of programs that could provide funds directly to individuals for housing to be “in the furtherance of a public interest” to get
Robinson triplets turn 10
Three times the charm
A decade ago, Deirdre Harris welcomed three of her daughters, Kali’Co, Keri’Co and Koh’Co Robinson. Triplets, the girls were delivered two months prematurely by Cesarean section on Oct. 21, 2013, and required medical support.
Richmond native successfully pitches at Black Ambition
For Leslie Winston III, it was a case of the third time is the charm when his company, Monocle, was named HBCU Grand Prize Winner at the 3rd Annual Black Ambition Demo Day on Nov. 9 at Spring Studios in New York.
Harding’s leading man status
For three seasons, Tahj Harding sat on the runway, with engines revved, at Virginia Union University. This year he’s taken off and his only limit is the sky.
Staying the course while steadying church’s finances is Rev. James’ mission
The Rev. A. Lincoln James Jr. still isn’t ready to use the “R” word. Rev. James still has a spring to his step, an energetic approach and plenty of words to share with the Trinity Baptist Church congregation he has led for 43 years, or most of his 53-year ministry career.
Personality: Sharon Walton Darby
Spotlight on board chair for Greater Richmond Fit4Kids
As Richmond area children continue to grow and learn in school and beyond, Sharon Darby helps to foster a healthier, better environment and experience for them every day. The board chair of Greater Richmond Fit4Kids since 2022, Ms. Darby helps the non-profit improve children’s health through physical activities, healthy eating and other programs provided through schools and the community.
Many voters weary about a Biden-Trump rematch in 2024
Third parties hope they can fill the gap
The 2024 presidential election is drawing an unusually robust field of independent, third party and long shot candidates hoping to capitalize on Americans’ ambivalence and frustration over a likely rematch between Democrat Joe Biden and Republican Donald Trump.
Absence of motion?
Center City and Diamond District development proposals show little movement
Slow going. That appears to be the situation for the two largest development projects that involve City Hall.
Richmond School Board decides not to publish graduation shooting report
Weeks after an external investigation into operations leading up to the June graduation mass shooting in Monroe Park was provided to Richmond Public Schools leadership, the next steps for the division are still unfolding.
Wildcats claw nearly to the finish line
Armstrong’s loss to Brentsville comes during Coach Pruitt’s absence
Armstrong High’s most illustrious football season in more than 70 years came up a smidgen short Nov. 24 in the Class 3, Region B finals.
MEAC title in tow, Bisons heading to ATL bowl game
This has been a football season to remember in Washington D.C.
Gary Flowers mum on facts, says Paul Goldman
A recent Free Press commentary by Gary Flowers highlights the fundamental political choice facing Richmond.
Let’s get children back outside, by Ben Jealous
Last week, after a restful Thanksgiving, my family made a deliberate choice to #OptOutside on Friday.
Wednesday, November 22
Moments in time
Several articles in the Nov. 16, 2023, edition of the Richmond Free Press chronicled the discovery of more than 140 badly decaying boxes containing personal documents, artifacts and archival materials that belonged to the late civil rights attorney and Virginia State Delegate Roland J. “Duke” Ealey. The documents were found several years ago by James “Jim” Vigeant and Sasha Finch while restoring their Clay Street home in Richmond’s Historic Jackson Ward.
Texas Rangers’ Tony Beasley lives stone’s throw from Richmond
It may come as a surprise to area baseball fans that one of the Texas Rangers’ coaches resides just a half hour north of Richmond.
Personality: Tara Michele Sample
Spotlight on ThisAbility’s founder who builds awareness, acceptance for people with disabilities
For more than a decade, Tara Michele Sample has provided a space for children and adults living with disabilities.
250 years later, ‘Amazing Grace’ has filled churches, concerts, even commercials
James Walvin, a former Church of England choirboy and professor of history at the University of York, doesn’t remember encountering “Amazing Grace,” in song or in his hymnal. It wasn’t until he traveled to the United States to research the history of slavery that he came upon the hymn introduced by John Newton, a former slave trader, in 1773.
Federal appeals court deals a blow to Voting Rights Act, ruling that private plaintiffs can’t sue
A divided federal appeals court on Monday ruled that private individuals and groups such as the NAACP do not have the ability to sue under a key section of the federal Voting Rights Act, a decision that contradicts decades of precedent and could further erode protections under the landmark 1965 law.
New state NAACP president chastises Democrats for selecting Scott Surovell instead of Mamie Locke for leadership role
The Rev. Cozy E. Bailey Sr. used his first public statement as the new state NAACP president to tongue-lash the Democratic Caucus in the state Senate for failing to elect Hampton Democratic Sen. Mamie E. Locke as the next majority leader.
The spirit of giving
Meadowbridge market offers free groceries to local residents
Dark and silent most days, the Meadowbridge Community Market comes alive on Saturdays.
Virginia Holocaust Museum presents ‘Memorial Without Witness’
“Memorial Without Witness,” an exhibit of eight floor-to-ceiling size photographs taken at the Auschwitz death camp by Dr. Charles W. Sydnor Jr., will be on display at the Virginia Holocaust Museum until Nov. 30.
Giving thanks not just a holiday tradition; it’s part of how humans evolved
It’s the season of giving thanks — and it turns out humans have been doing it for a long, long time.
Black athletes top contenders for O’Brien Trophy
For the longest time, Black quarterbacks in major college football were a rarity. That’s no longer the case.
Michigan, Ohio State matchup to feature Hopewell’s TreVeyon Henderson
Former Hopewell standout TreVeyon Henderson will be smack dab in the middle of the national college football spotlight this Saturday in Ann Arbor, Mich.
Armstrong drives ‘Maybach’ to victory
Armstrong’s Wildcats have gotten hot – make that smoking hot – at just the right time.
Curtain falls on VUU’s championship season
Much of what had gone so right for Virginia Union University all football season went so wrong in the end.
Feudalism in the Commonwealth, by Gary L. Flowers
In 1619, English colonizers brought captured Africans to Virginia on a cargo ship “The White Lion.” The white colonizers also brought a hierarchical social structure, left over from the days of feudalism in mid-evil England.
Thanksgiving 2023 reflections: Planting gratitude and harvesting a bounty, by Alveda King
For many people, the Thanksgiving season is a time for expressing gratitude to God for our many blessings.
Supreme Court’s so-called ethics code is worse than nothing, by Marc H. Morial
The so-called ethics code the U.S. Supreme Court issued on Monday won’t put a stop to corruption and wasn’t intended to do so. Quite the opposite: it is intended to justify corruption.
Giving and receiving
When a Richmond area grocery retailer failed to provide a local nonprofit turkeys advertised for 39 cents per pound, another grocer with deeper roots in the region stepped in to save the day.
Bon Appetit!
VMHC exhibit to showcase American chef and TV personality Julia Child
As families prepare to gather around the table this week for Thanksgiving, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) is preparing a new exhibition that will explore the life and legacy of American chef and TV personality Julia Child.
Matthew Lamar Edwards is 27th annual Beautillion’s new king
Matthew Lamar Edwards was crowned king of Professionals Reaching Out to the Community (PROC) Foundation’s 27th annual Beautillion which took place Saturday, Nov. 11, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.
Swansboro opens Literacy Corner
Since Sept. 20, the basement floor of Swansboro Elementary School has been the site of a new experiment in education. Among the warm atmosphere of bustling classrooms, Swansboro staff and faculty are using a new Literacy Corner to bring students a personalized way to learn and improve their reading skills.
COVID-19 updates
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:
Jones updates Council on his departure plans
City Council President Michael J. Jones said that he expected the Nov. 13 meeting of the council to be his last.
Richmond to host national speech, debate tournament
The National Speech & Debate Association has selected the Richmond region as the host of its 2026 National Speech & Debate Tournament, an event that is expected to attract 10,000 student contestants and visitors to the area.
VSU to host presidential debate
Virginia State University will be one of the three universities to host a presidential debate in 2024, the nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates announced Monday.
Thanksgiving holiday schedule
In observance of Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 23, please note the following closings:
Former first lady Rosalynn Carter dies at 96
Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, the closest adviser to Jimmy Carter during his one term as U.S. president and their four decades thereafter as global humanitarians, has died at the age of 96. The Carter Center said she died Sunday, Nov. 19, 2023, after living with dementia and suffering many months
Hanover County bans books in schools
“The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Wicked” and “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” are among the 75 books Hanover County school administrators directed teachers and librarians to remove from their schools last Friday, according to various news reports.
Thursday, November 16
Fourth-seed VUU takes on Kutztown University
Virginia Union University’s 10th football victory was much like its first nine. The Panthers flexed their muscles and showed total domination. Moving on to this Saturday, an 11th win might be harder to dig their claws into.
Casino vote aftermath
Stoney, Spanberger declare bids for governor; Paul Goldman proposes charter change
Mayor Levar M. Stoney is brushing himself off after Richmond voters for the second time rejected the $562 million casino-resort plan he fully backed and gearing up to run for governor in 2025. Separately, Paul Goldman, who led both successful no casino campaigns, is now focusing on securing public support for a change to the City Charter or constitution that would require the mayor and the City Council to put the city’s children first when it comes to spending tax dollars.
A treasure trove of history
Jackson Ward couple discovers legal papers of civil rights icon Roland J. ‘Duke’ Ealey
Five years into the renovation of a 143-year-old brick house on East Clay Street in Jackson Ward, James Vigeant’s work halted. To his surprise and amazement, he found an unexpected treasure — 144 moldy boxes filled with the decaying legal papers of one of Richmond’s legal giants, Roland J. “Duke” Ealey.
The Supreme Court says it is adopting a code of ethics, but it has no means of enforcement
The Supreme Court on Monday adopted its first code of ethics, in the face of sustained criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices, but the code lacks a means of enforcement.
Harold C. Glenn, also known as ‘Soul Santa,’ dies at age 90
During a time that it was rare for a Black person to play the familiar holiday role of Santa Claus anywhere in the country, that fact did not deter Harold Cecil Glenn.
Personality: Harrison Nathaniel Roday
Spotlight on Bridging Virginia’s founder and board chair
Harrison Nathaniel Roday learned the power of outside financial support when helping to invest in and run industrial manufacturing businesses 10 years ago in New York. He also learned that obtaining such support often is elusive for marginalized business owners.
Jennings is newest ‘Richmond Ram’
VCU began building a basketball program in the late 1960s while relying heavily on talent within Richmond’s city limits. The Rams are hopeful their most recent scholarship signee, Brandon Jennings, will in time stamp his name onto the local heroes list.
VUU sports information director creates a top internet podcast
Four years ago, James S. “Jim” Junot said he was just testing some new software to see if it would improve the sports information operation he runs at Virginia Union University.
Council approves new shelters for homeless
Proposals for two new city-supported homeless shelters – including one at 1900 Chamberlayne Ave. that drew fire from area businesses — cleared City Council Monday.
City Council president seeks to ensure successor
Outgoing City Council President Michael J. Jones plans to keep his 9th District seat until Dec. 31, according to a letter of resignation he submitted to his colleagues and the City Clerk. That appears to represent a change in the timing for the council departure of the full-time minister, who is headed to the General Assembly after winning his uncontested election to represent
Newly empowered Virginia Democrats nominate the state’s first Black House speaker, Don Scott
Virginia’s state House will soon have its first Black speaker in its more than 400-year history after the chamber’s incoming Democratic majority on Saturday chose Del. Don Scott to serve in the post.
Community Foundation announces local R.E.B. Foundation winners
Several Richmond area teachers have been recognized for their contributions to public education — and given the means and opportunity to take their work even further.
Dominion Energy offers energy saving tips and bill payment assistance options as winter approaches
The fall and winter months typically bring higher energy bills as customers use more electricity to heat their homes. Dominion Energy Virginia is reminding customers of energy-saving tips to help save money. The utility also offers bill payment assistance options for customers in need.
New RRHA board chair
Former Richmond City Councilman William R. Johnson Jr. is the new chair of the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority’s board.
COVID-19 updates
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:
Reflections about Roland ‘Duke’ Ealey
He ‘was very much a Richmond fixture and everybody who knew him respected him’
Jody Lynn Allen, a history professor and the Robert Francis Engs director of The Lemon Project at The College of William & Mary, is eager to learn what Mr. Ealey’s papers reveal about civil rights in regions outside of the Lower South.
A Jackson Ward Journey
Unearthing the history and legacy of civil rights attorney Roland J. ‘Duke’ Ealey
When my wife, Sasha Finch, and I purchased the 1880s East Clay Street building on Jan. 4, 2012, it had been dormant for more than 10 years. Plywood covered its outside window and inside the level of disrepair was undeniable. A fire on the second floor had caused considerable damage to much of the property. Yet something drew us to this building. We saw beauty in this wonderful old brick structure. For five years we worked steadily on the property’s exterior, rebuilding damaged brick walls while preparing the interior for its eventual renovation.
Library of Virginia’s preservation of historic Jackson Ward’s ‘shining star’ collection that tells multiple stories
Library of Virginia administrators and staff were “over the moon” when asked to preserve the documents and memorabilia of the late Roland J. “Duke” Ealey, said John Metz, deputy director of collections and programs.
Roland ‘Duke’ Ealey was part of legal team that helped integrate Richmond Public Schools
In 1958, Bettie Elizabeth Boyers Cooper became fed up with segregation when her daughter had to ride a bus four miles to and from Carver Elementary School rather than attend the whites-only Westhampton Elementary School that was within walking distance of their home.
Need: Attention to detail
City Hall is a $3 billion yearly operation with a lot of moving parts and thousands of employees.
An old Joe Biden foe is back —the enthusiasm gap, by Clarence Page
Every presidential campaign raises nagging questions of various sorts.
The G.I. Bill’s effect on Black veterans, by David W. Marshall
Each year our nation recognizes Veterans Day, celebrated last Saturday on Nov. 11, by honoring America’s service men and women for their courage, honor, patriotism and sacrifice each year.
City of Angels’ Black MBL bosses
There are just two Black Major League Baseball managers, and both have Los Angeles teams to oversee.
Former Phoenix Suns player Walter Davis dies
Walter Davis, among the greatest players in the University of North Carolina and Phoenix Suns history, died Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, of natural causes in Charlotte. He was 69.
‘The Marvels’ melts down at the box office, marking a new low for the Universe
Since 2008’s “Iron Man,” the Marvel machine has been one of the most unstoppable forces
Dennis T. Clark is new librarian of Virginia
Dennis T. Clark has been appointed to serve as the 10th librarian of Virginia.
Journalist, educator, public relations specialist Sylvina R. Poole dies
Veteran Richmond journalist, educator and entrepreneur Sylvina Renee Poole has died. Ms. Poole, 59, succumbed to illness Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023.
Wanda L. Moore-Skinner, who helped provide resources for those in need, dies at age 68
For 37 years, Wanda Louise Moore-Skinner quietly provided assistance to financially desperate individuals and families.
Thursday, November 9
Personality: Peter C. Pettit
Spotlight on The Shepherd’s Center of Richmond board president
For Richmonders who want to stay active in their older years, Peter Christian Pettit is helping them access avenues for exploration and growth. As president of The Shepherd’s Center of Richmond board of directors, Mr. Pettit is part of the decision-making process that provides older residents new ways to stay active and engaged. And while the circumstances to him leading the organization were unfortunate, Mr. Pettit believes that he has had a positive experience so far.
Moving on. Or not.
The news that a second referendum to build a casino resort in Richmond was defeated a second time in two years probably surprised no one tuned to local news reports over the past week.
Thank you for your service, Mr. Welford Williams
Friday is Veterans Day, which honors all of those who have served the country in war or peace — dead or alive — although it’s largely intended to thank living veterans for their sacrifices.
Making connections that can help save the planet, by Ben Jealous
If we’re going to realize the climate benefits of historic federal support for clean energy and jobs approved in the last two years, connections are the key. And I’m not just talking about electrifying homes and buildings.
A segregationist in the House, by Julianne Malveaux
Many are rejoicing that Republicans finally got around to electing a speaker, thus breaking the logjam that began when Trump acolyte Matt Goetz (R-Fla.) introduced legislation to eliminate Kevin McCarthy (R-Ca.). In selecting Louisiana’s Mike Johnson, Republicans chose a self-avowed “evangelical Southern Christian” (read racist segregationist) who is anti-choice, anti-gay rights (and marriage), and anti-education.
Biden administration says colleges must fight ‘alarming rise’ in antisemitism and Islamophobia
The Biden administration is warning U.S. schools and colleges that they must take immediate action to stop antisemitism and Islamophobia on their campuses, citing an “alarming rise” in threats and harassment.
After southern losses, VUU seeks northern victories
Following a difficult trip to the Deep South, the Virginia Union University basketball team is now pointing north.
TJ’s King has ‘designs’ on success
There are two different sides to Isaiah King. On the football field, he is the consummate middle linebacker — wide-shouldered, locomotive strong and ready to rumble. Off the fields, King is an aspiring fashion designer.
City high schools to host quarterfinal regionals
This has been a banner season for Richmond City high school football, and the best could be yet to come. Local fans won’t have to travel far to see some playoff action.
Corey Seager’s two-time MVP win
If Reggie Jackson was “Mr. October,” as he came to be known, then Corey Seager might well be “Mr. November.”
So you think you can dance?
Richmond area youths auditioned for the City Dance Theater Nov. 4 at Pine Camp Cultural Arts Center. The City Dance Theater is an award-winning ensemble of approximately 15 young men and women. Together they bring excitement and creativity to movement.
Richmond Symphony to perform long-overlooked ‘Negro Folk Symphony’
When the Richmond Symphony takes the stage for two performances this weekend, one of the pieces they will perform is being billed as “the greatest symphony you’ve never heard.”
Dems win Va. House, Senate
Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin went all in on winning Republican majorities in the state House and Senate — and lost. Unofficial results from Tuesday’s elections show Virginia Democrats again will be in charge of both houses of the General Assembly.
Voters reject casino bid a second time
No way. No how. That was Richmond voters’ resounding response to the question of whether a $562 million casino-resort should be developed in South Side.
COVID-19 updates
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following location:
Henrico County historic election results
Henrico County voters for the first time appear to have elected three Black members to the county’s Board of Supervisors with unofficial results from Tuesday’s election indicating the governing body will have a 4-1 Democratic majority when the new terms begin in January.
Ohio votes to legalize marijuana for adult recreational use, becoming 24th state to do so
Ohio voters approved a measure legalizing recreational marijuana on Tuesday, defying Republican legislative leaders who failed to pass the proposed law.
Black candidates gain historic election results
History was made Tuesday night with the election of a record number of Black candidates to the General Assembly. Of the 53 Black candidates who ran for legislative seats, a record 32 won, including 30 Democrats and two Republicans.
House votes to censure Rep. Rashida Tlaib over her Israel-Hamas rhetoric in a stunning rebuke
The House voted late Tuesday to censure Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan — the only Palestinian American in Congress — an extraordinary rebuke of her rhetoric about the Israel-Hamas war.
Richmond marathon street closings
Richmond residents and visitors are advised to be aware of street closings and no parking zones that will go into effect Friday, Nov. 10, and Saturday, Nov. 11, as part of the Richmond Marathon. Vehicles parked along the race course will be towed to ensure safety during the event.
VSU offers campus housing to youngsters whose parents are students
Virginia State University hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at University Apartments at Ettrick yesterday to showcase the university’s new student-parent housing program. The program provides special campus housing for six student parents (students who also are parents) and their young children.
RPS announces open enrollment applications
Families can now apply for open enrollment schools, specialty schools and regional Governor’s Schools for the 2024-2025 Richmond school year at www.attendrvaschools.com. Applications for specialty and regional Governor’s Schools must be submitted by Friday, Dec. 1, at 4:30 p.m.
Veterans Day 2023 Holiday
In observance of Veterans Day on Saturday, Nov. 11, please note the following for the City of Richmond and counties of Henrico, Hanover and Chesterfield:
Chesterfield to celebrate Veterans Day Nov. 11
Community is invited to 2 p.m. ceremony at fairgrounds
Chesterfield County and the Chesterfield County Historical Society of Virginia invite the public to attend this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 2 p.m. at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Building at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds (10300 Courthouse Road).
War Memorial hosts Veterans Day ceremony
The Virginia War Memorial will host its 67th annual ceremony on Friday, Nov. 10, to honor and remember all men and women who served or continue to serve in every branch of U.S. armed forces from the Revolutionary War to now.
Street named in honor of former Richmond mayor
The City of Richmond renamed a South Side street to honor former Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones, according to news reports.
Free Thanksgiving meals and turkeys
Young Achievers and Making Men, along with the Beta Gamma Lambda Educational Foundation, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Beta Gamma Lambda Chapter, The Links, Commonwealth (VA) Chapter, will sponsor a Turkey Giveaway on Nov. 18 from 12 to 2 p.m., 1830 Creighton Road, 23223.
WWII veteran reflects on a century of life
A life that spans a century is a milestone few are privileged to celebrate. Welford Williams of Glen Allen was “blessed” to become a centenarian on Oct. 25. Formerly one of the youngest members of his family, the World War II veteran is now the oldest person in his family.
After rebuffing repeated requests, Gov. Youngkin provides documents ahead of court hearing
For the first time, the Virginia State NAACP and its attorneys have gained a view of what they consider Republican Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin’s arbitrary process for restoring the rights of individuals released from prison.
VUU upsets VSU before crowd of 15,000
Panthers, Broncos set for CIAA rematch
Virginia Union University is on its way to scratching more than a two-decade old football itch.
‘Kemba’, a film based on Richmonder’s life of love, prison and redemption, makes screen debut
“Kemba,” a movie based on the true story of Richmond native Kemba Smith, made its world premiere this week at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival.
Celebrating community
Two churches step out from the past together
Two Dinwiddie County Baptist churches, Rocky Branch in Sutherland and Central in Church Road, both celebrated their 150-year anniversaries in October. To mark the occasion, the predominately white congregation of Central Baptist and the predominately Black congregation of Rocky Branch Baptist did something that would have been unthinkable all those years ago — they came together in worship and fellowship.
Shockoe Heritage Center to advance
City Hall is taking another step toward the creation of a heritage center inside Main Street Station to tell the story of the Shockoe area and the slave trade that once dominated the area’s development.
Exonerated ‘Central Park Five’ member Yusef Salaam wins New York City Council seat
Voters elect Democrat Cherelle Parker as Philadelphia’s 100th mayor — and the 1st woman
Exonerated “Central Park Five” member Yusef Salaam won a seat Tuesday on the New York City Council, completing a stunning reversal of fortune decades after he was wrongly imprisoned in an infamous rape case.
Friday, November 3
Richmond Bandits leave it on the field
Three youth football teams from the city-based Richmond Bandits made it to title games in their age brackets, but none came away with a title.
Movie review: ‘Rustin,’ with an outstanding Colman Domingo, is a terrific look at March on Washington
The 1963 March on Washington drew an estimated 250,000 people from across the country — the largest march at that point in American history — and was the place where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.
Anniversary celebrations at Richmond Public Library
Richmond Public Library will celebrate memory, music and community in honor of the library’s 100th anniversary Saturday, Nov. 4.
Americans overwhelmingly support corporate diversity initiatives, by Marc H. Morial
“Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.” –Verna Myers, vice president of Inclusion Strategy at Netflix.
Labor wins
Sending a message to corporate America, the United Auto Workers has proven that labor unions are no longer on the wane.
One more thing
By the time most of you read this, many will have voted early and voted “YES” for the Richmond Grand Resort and Casino. And we thank you for your vote that will, when completed, economically move Richmond in ways unimaginable by those who seek to hold Richmond back politically and racially.
‘Right to repair’ movement could risk patient care for disadvantaged communities, by Albert R. Wynn
In state legislatures across the country the “right to repair” movement is gaining momentum. Thirty-three states and Puerto Rico considered right to repair legislation during the 2023 legislative session. And while this might be a good idea for some products, policymakers should oppose any attempts to weaken regulated safety requirements for repairing life-saving and life-enhancing medical devices. Patient safety is too great a risk.
Thursday, November 2
Mike Jones endorses Nicole Jones as his replacement on City Council
Outgoing City Council President Michael J. Jones is hopeful that a Jones will continue to fill the 9th District seat after he gives it up to prepare to serve in the General Assembly.
VSU team takes off with NASA challenge
A team of students at Virginia State University has been invited for the first time to participate in the NASA Student Launch Challenge.
Wind farm planned off Va. coast blows away federal agency, gains OK
A power company’s plans for an enormous offshore wind farm off Virginia’s coast gained key federal approval Tuesday after the Biden administration evaluated the project’s potential impact on the environment.
COVID-19 updates
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:
RPS student is back in school
Dr. Donna Robinson is heaving a sigh of relief. Her son, 11-year-old Shamar L. Muhammadali, is finally back in school.
Turning back time
Daylight Savings Time will end 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5. Richmonders are advised to turn their clocks back one hour at that time.
Candidates contend for school board seats amid increasingly politicized backdrop
All 140 seats in the General Assembly are up for election this year — but that’s not the only thing Virginians will be voting for on Election Day. Nearly 600 candidates are vying for school board seats over an increasingly politicized backdrop. Most of the school board races in more populous areas are contested, but a majority of the races are uncontested, according to a Cardinal News analysis. In some districts the candidates have been endorsed by political parties, although the candidates run as independents.
Shaping RPS’ future
Richmond Public Schools students, families, staff and members of the community are invited to help shape the future of RPS, as the school system will begin hosting Dreams4RPS meetings, beginning Wednesday, Nov. 8, to receive public input on the strategic plan for the district.
City gains $50M for affordable housing
A national housing nonprofit announced Tuesday that it will match Richmond’s five-year $50 million investment in affordable housing — a huge boost to efforts to increase the supply of less costly apartments and homes.
Unprecedented money flowing in Va. legislative races; latest reports show Dems with edge
Virginia legislative candidates raised $46 million over about four weeks in the month of October, according to newly filed finance disclosures, with Democrats collectively reporting a fundraising edge as this campaign season nears its end.
Isley Brothers party with a purpose
Thousands of people gathered at the Hickory Hill Community Center in South Side to enjoy a free all-day party and concert headlined by the Isley Brothers and hosted by the Richmond Grand Resort and Casino last Saturday. In addition to the free concert, free food was provided to garner support for the proposed Richmond Grand Resort and Casino.
Battle for I-95 comes to VUU on Saturday
And now, ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the main event. Nine weeks of preliminaries have passed. Saturday at 1 p.m., Virginia Union will play host to Virginia State for the CIAA Northern Division title, a trip to Salem for the CIAA title game, and perhaps a shot at the NCAA Division II playoffs.
Stoney demands DOJ investigation
Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney doesn’t believe that a “coding error” is the reason 3,400 voters were removed from Virginia’s voter rolls, as stated by Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin last week.
Putting women on the map
National Center of Women’s Innovations selects Dr. Gladys B. West as inaugural honoree
Dr. Gladys B. West, the African-American mathematician whose mapping of the world enabled Global Positioning System (GPS), was chosen by the newly launched National Center of Women’s Innovations (NCWI) as its inaugural “Forgotten Women Innovator.”
Documentary on Black millennials depicts wide range of religion, rebellion
A member of the second-oldest Black Catholic order in the United States. A voodoo priestess. A gay atheist woman. A new documentary from the National Museum of African American History and Culture explores the range of faith and spiritual expressions of Black millennials and the choices they have made to reject — or embrace — the religious rituals of their childhood.
Personality: Tyee Davenport Mallory
Spotlight on Richmond Section of the National Council of Negro Women president
Tyee Davenport Mallory is helping to show the worth of women’s organizations. As president of the Richmond Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Ms. Mallory has worked to expand the nonprofit’s presence and mission through new partnerships and increased membership.
Some striking UAW members carry family legacies
As Britney Johnson paced the picket line outside Ford’s Wayne Assembly plant, she wasn’t just carrying a sign demanding higher pay and other changes. Autoworker jobs have long been a pillar of the Black middle class in America, and the strikes and the fight for higher wages have had even deeper significance for workers like Johnson.
Too close to call
Casino outcome hinges on voter turnout
Will Richmond voters approve a resort and casino project? That’s the biggest question on the city ballot —– a repeat of 2021 when the proposal narrowly lost.
Election Day votes likely to boost state’s Black legislators
The General Assembly is guaranteed to have a record number of Black members after voters cast their ballots on Election Day next Tuesday, Nov. 7.
VUU has restocked its hoops roster for new season
“Starting over” might be the theme for this season’s Virginia Union University’s basketball Panthers.
An overview
Nov. 7 election will determine state’s direction on abortion, taxes and environment
Next week, voters across Virginia will fill 100 seats in the House of Delegates and 40 seats in the state Senate — and determine whether Democrats or Republicans hold a majority in each house of the General Assembly.
Collective bargaining effect
Collective bargaining is becoming a force to be reckoned with when it comes to the wages that the city pays its employees.
PROC Foundation hosts 27th Beautillion
The achievements of four beaux (young men) will be recognized during the Profes- sionals Reaching Out to the Community (PROC) Founda- tion’s 27th Beautillion on Nov. 11 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. The Beautillion offers high school juniors and seniors educational, social and cultural experiences, along with the chance to earn a college schol- arship during the eight-month Beautillion program. The theme of this year’s Beautillion is “Creating the Nar- rative for a Better Tomorrow.” During the black-tie event, educational and book scholar- ships will be awarded. This year’s participants include: Matthew Lamar Edwards – A junior at Matoaca High School, he is the son of Mr. Marvin L. Edwards and Mrs. Letitia M. Edwards. His escort is J’adore Cadet. Bishop Ramon Foster – A
Tyreek Williams is VSU’s newest baller
Virginia State basketball Coach Lonnie Blow is looking for new stars and Tyreek Williams has raised his hand to volunteer.
