Thursday, July 25
Coco Gauff, LeBron James flag bearers for team USA at Olympics ceremony
Tennis star Coco Gauff will join LeBron James as a flag bearer for the U.S. Olympic team at Friday’s opening ceremony.
Congressional symposium precedes MJBL Baseball Classic
The Metropolitan Junior Baseball League will host its 33rd Annual Inner City Classic and Black World Series on July 30 in Washington, D.C. The event starts 6 p.m. at Maury Wills Field, following the 20th Annual Bobby Bonds Memorial Symposium at the Congressional Auditorium on Capitol Hill.
CIAA unveils 2024 football broadcast schedule
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association announces its broadcast lineup for the upcoming 2024 football season, featuring games on HBCU GO, a streaming service dedicated to Historically black colleges and universities, and the conference’s own CIAA Sports Network.
Council sells site to Planned Parenthood, sounds off on noise policy
A wide range of changes to health care, business, eviction prevention and noise control in Richmond are in the works following the latest City Council meeting Monday evening.
New book explores the Black Appalachian experience
Author Christopher A. Brooks has spent his career spotlighting often overlooked stories from the African continental and Diaspora experience.
Health officials warn of rising COVID-19 cases as summer heats up
With the summer season in full swing, local and state health officials are urging the public to take steps to protect themselves from COVID-19 infection, as cases recently have risen across the United States.
Midwifery provides safe haven for Black families
A birthing center in Midlothian offers families an alternative approach to pregnancy care and childbirth.
‘We are not playing around’
Harris asks for support at address to Zeta Phi Beta
Vice President Kamala Harris told members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority on Wednesday that “we are not playing around” and asked for their help in electing her president in November.
Woodville Elementary joins extended school year program
Woodville Elementary School in Richmond’s East End welcomed students back to class earlier than usual this week, marking its first year as part of the city’s RPS200 initiative. The program, now in its second year, extends the school year by 20 days to boost student achievement.
Personality: Jeremy Scott Hoffman, Ph.D.
Spotlight on chair of Livability Committee for The Greater Scott’s Addition Association
Jeremy Scott Hoffman is a forceful climate justice advocate for Scott’s Addition and the city of Richmond. He credits his father with sparking his interest in conservationism, although he says the notion of creating better spaces has been in the background of every aspect of his life.
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, trailblazing Texas Democrat, dies at 74
Democratic Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, one of the longest-serving members of the Texas delegation died at the age of 74 on Friday, July 19, 2024. In June, Jackson Lee announced her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, yet she showed little indication of letting it interfere with her plans to run for a 16th term this November.
Mississippi’s new Episcopal bishop is first woman, first Black person in role
The new bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi was formally installed Saturday, and she is the first woman and first Black person to hold the post.
Richmond procurement department wins national award
The City of Richmond’s Department of Procurement Services has received the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award from the National Procurement Institute, officials announced Sunday.
VCU Medical Center tops Richmond hospital rankings again
VCU Medical Center has been named the top hospital in the Metro Richmond area for the 14th consecutive year by U.S. News & World Report.
Henrico County planning decades in advance
It’s never too soon to plan ahead. Some people may make plans a few days early, or a few weeks, maybe even months. Others like to make plans a full year ahead. In Henrico County, plans are in motion 21 years in advance.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending on Saturday, July 20, confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Virginia fell 1.9% from the previous week. Three deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported statewide during that timeframe. COVID-19 wastewater levels in the Greater Richmond area last week, on average, plateaued following an increase the week before.
Arresting behavior
Last month, a black woman in Springfield, Ill., called the police to report an intruder in her home.
President Harris would represent new era of leadership, by David W. Marshall
Fearmongering, when used as a political tool, has always been an effective means of swaying voters and winning elections.
Telling the truth not a call to violence, by Ben Jealous
When the stakes are high … when there is a real threat … should staying silent even be an option?
Griner honored to be wearing USA Basketball jersey again after time in Russian prison
There were times Brittney Griner thought she would never wear a USA Basketball jersey again.
Senators introduce legislation to support lower-income artists
U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner, D-Va., and Thom Tillis, R-N.C., introduced the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act of 2024 on Tuesday, aiming to provide tax relief to lower and middle-income performing artists. This legislation updates the Qualified Performing Artist tax deduction, allowing more artists to deduct work-related expenses.
City addresses sewer pipe leaks along James River
The City of Richmond is working with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality to address two separate sewer leak incidents that occurred this month along the Tredegar Pipeline Trail.
We can’t let our guard down against COVID-19, by Roger Chesley
Summertime in Virginia: Temps are sweltering and show no sign of abating. Children are out of school and bored. Various fruits and vegetables are ripe for the picking, even in this hellish heat. And cases of COVID-19, the scourge of our nation and the planet, tick up around the Commonwealth. It’s become a rite of the season, as common as antsy kids, forever-running air conditioning and respites at the beach.
VCU athletes nominated for NCAA Woman of the Year
Two Virginia Commonwealth University athletes are among 17 Atlantic 10 Conference nominees for the NCAA Woman of the Year Award. Field hockey goalkeeper Sheridan Messier and track and field sprinter Simone Pierre represent VCU in the running for one of the NCAA’s most prestigious honors.
Chesterfield County unveils inaugural sports hall of fame class
In a landmark moment for local sports history, the Chesterfield County Sports Hall of Fame, presented by Virginia Credit Union, has announced its inaugural class of inductees.
CIAA football preseason poll
Virginia State tops rankings, Virginia Union second
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association has released its 2024 football preseason conference poll, with Virginia State University claiming the top spot. This marks a significant improvement for the Trojans, who were picked to finish fifth last season but landed in third place behind Virginia Union and Fayetteville State.
Richmond announces finalists for inaugural BLK RVA Community Awards
The Richmond Region Tourism Foundation has unveiled the finalists for the first BLK RVA Community Awards, celebrating individuals and businesses that bolster Black tourism in the Richmond area.
Longtime Richmond pastor set to end 45-year ministry
Dr. Arthur M. Jones Sr., pastor of Triumphant Baptist Church in Richmond, recently announced his retirement after 45 years of service. His last day as pastor will be July 28.
Local Lego Master to Lead Workshop for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond
The Lego Group and a local contestant on Fox’’s “Lego Masters” Ben Edlavitch are teaming up to bring a special workshop to members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond on Monday, July 29.
Sunday, July 21
Biden Drops White House Run, Endorses Harris for 2024
President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 race for the White House on Sunday, ending his bid for reelection after a disastrous debate with Donald Trump that raised doubts about the incumbent’s fitness for office with the election just four months away
Thursday, July 18
Faith leaders grapple with abortion rights in Black churches
The Rev. Warren H. Stewart Sr. of Phoenix has had countless discussions this election season with fellow Black men on the economy, criminal justice, immigration and other issues dominating the political landscape in their battleground state of Arizona. But never abortion.
Roland Martin leads discussion on reimagining Richmond schools
A diverse group of over 60 Richmond area residents gathered at Sixth Baptist Church on Sunday to explore new educational possibilities for the city’s schools. The “Reimagining Education” town hall, led by journalist Roland Martin, aimed to spark discussion on innovative approaches to improve student outcomes, particularly for children of color.
Political violence shakes America as election looms
Long before a would-be assassin wounded former President Donald Trump, the fuse of political violence had been burning across America.
Simone Biles has moved past Tokyo
If critics can’t, she says that’s their problem, not hers
Simone Biles has spent the last three years moving past the Tokyo Olympics.
Community Day planned as Bensley Agrihood project evolves
The Bensley Agrihood project, a proposed affordable housing development centered around an organic farm and wellness center in Chesterfield County’s Bensley neighborhood, continues to move forward despite recent zoning setbacks.
Richmond issues water advisory for James River due to sewage leak
The Virginia Department of Health has issued a recreational water advisory for a section of the James River following a sewage leak reported on July 16. The affected area stretches from the Manchester Bridge (9th Street) in Richmond to Osborne Landing in Henrico County.
Richmond workers bring concerns to mayoral candidates
The future of labor in Richmond was the focus of a “Unions for All” mayoral forum Saturday afternoon, as members from 17 unions and labor groups came together with other local workers in the BCTGM Union Hall to bring their questions to the candidates.
The 900-page guide to snuffing out American democracy, by Ben Jealous
What if there was a blueprint for a future presidential administration to unilaterally lay waste to our constitutional order and turn America from a democracy into an autocracy in one fell swoop?
Changing our approach to gun violence, by Harrison Roday
It’s become a recurring pattern and it can almost be numbing. When you open the newspaper or turn on the television, you see lives cut short due to gun violence – and tragically, so often, children’s lives. Nationally, guns now kill more children than car crashes.
Single ballot theory
The bloodied head of our former president is an image that we won’t be able to shake for some time. (Thanks cable news.)
What if Crooks had been a Black man?, by Hazel Trice Edney
Can you imagine what would have happened to a Black man who showed up at a Donald Trump rally acting “suspiciously” around the metal detectors?
Desirée Roots joins leadership team at ATLAS partnership
Desirée Roots, former co-artistic director of community at Virginia Rep, has joined the leadership team of the newly established ATLAS Partnership. Roots’ previous position, was eliminated during a recent restructuring of Virginia Rep.
Richmond Music Week returns for second year
Richmond Music Week, a celebration of the city’s music scene, will return for its second year Aug. 2 through 11 organizers announced Wednesday.
President of Florida’s only public historically Black university resigns after donation debacle
The president of Florida’s only public historically Black university is resigning amid backlash over the school’s apparent failure to properly vet a multimillion dollar donation from a dubious donor.
Dr. JoAnn Thomas Wilson remembered
JoAnn Thomas Wilson, a revered figure in psychology and community service, passed away on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in Fayetteville, Ga.
Personality: Dwight Jones
Spotlight on president of Richmond Chapter of the National Negro Golf Association
Michigan native Dwight Jones is deeply committed to the community that welcomed him 17 years ago. As the president of the Richmond Chapter of the National Negro Golf Association, Jones not only enjoys a good game of golf but also the community spirit of the club. His dedication to the NNGA and his community is a testament to his values and commitment.
Family activities and hoops highlight Henrico’s back-to-school event
Henrico County Public Schools will host its annual Back-to-School Kickoff at the Henrico Sports & Events Center on Aug. 9, offering a day filled with family activities, educational resources and a basketball tournament to celebrate the up-coming school year.
A Plunky good time
Concert to bring jazz icon’s multifaceted legacy to life
James “Plunky” Branch is an educator. A label founder. A mentor to multiple generations of instrumentalists and a founding father of the Richmond Jazz Society. His early musical travels included formative stints in San Francisco and New York, but 2024 marks his 50th year of performing after returning to his native Richmond, and he’ll celebrate by staging a concert dubbed Plunky Day in RVA on Friday, July 19, at Kanawha Plaza. The event promises to tie together threads of the soon-to-be 77-year-old’s varied legacy.
Veterans care centers get new wheelchair-accessible vans
The Virginia Veterans Services Foundation and the Virginia Department of Veterans Services announced Wednesday that the Disabled American Veterans Department of Virginia has donated four specially equipped minivans to transport residents of state veterans care centers to medical appointments.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending on Saturday, July 13, confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Virginia rose 2% from the previous week, though new admissions remain low. One death associated with COVID-19 was reported statewide during that timeframe. COVID-19 wastewater levels in the Greater Richmond area remain, on average, below detection.
McClellan delivers $1.6M for domestic violence survivors
U.S. Rep. Jennifer L. McClellan, D-Va., presented YWCA Richmond with a $1,666,279 check Tuesday to support the organization’s services for domestic violence survivors.
Popular jazz café secures funding for 3 more years
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts announced Tuesday that Dominion Energy has renewed its sponsorship of the museum’s free weekly jazz performance series.
City proposes solar farm, meadow on former landfill site
Richmond officials are seeking public input on a proposal to convert a former landfill into the city’s first solar farm and pollinator meadow. The project, which could cover up to 30 acres in the 7th District, aims to generate renewable energy while supporting local biodiversity.
Helping at the polls aligns with basic faith values, from hospitality to honoring our neighbors, by Jennifer Walker Thomas & Chris Crawford/Religion News
With summer in full swing, our attention, in an ideal world, would be divided between planning vacations and wrangling children, with the coming election a far-off problem for the fall. Sadly, the state of our politics isn’t allowing us that luxury.
Local First Tee team cinches Redmond Cup in thrilling playoff
In a nail-biting finish, First Tee Greater Richmond captured the 11th Redmond Cup presented by Troutman Pepper on Thursday at Belmont Golf Course. The local team emerged victorious in a playoff against First Tee – Greater Washington, D.C., after both squads finished the two-day competition tied at 165.
Spiders make splash with 2 CSCAA Scholar All-Americans
The University of Richmond’s swimming and diving team is proving they’re as sharp in the classroom as they are in the pool.
5 Panthers earn spots on VaSID All-State football team
The Virginia Union University football program made a strong showing in the recently announced Virginia Sports Information Directors All-State Football Team. Five Panthers have secured spots on the prestigious list, highlighting the team’s talent and depth.
Michael Vick to mentor young athletes at NSU flag football clinic
The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference is gearing up for its second annual Girls on the Gridiron Flag Football Clinic, with former NFL quarterback Michael Vick slated to make a special appearance. The event, set for Sunday, July 21, aims to introduce more young women to the growing sport of flag football.
‘Portraits’ exhibition showcases Style Weekly’s visual chronicle of Richmond
A new exhibition showcasing photographs from Style Weekly’s archive at the Valentine museum, offering a visual journey through Richmond’s cultural landscape from the 1980s to recent years.
From farmland to fun land: Henrico’s Taylor Farm Park now open
A new public park spanning 99 acres opened Tuesday in Sandston, expanding Henrico County’s recreational offerings. Taylor Farm Park, located at 200 Whiteside Road, features a variety of outdoor amenities and represents a $26 million investment in community infrastructure.
Free FAFSA assistance workshops at Capital One Cafes
A local nonprofit is offering free workshops to help students complete their federal financial aid applications for college.
Thursday, July 11
City’s investment in Confederate marker raises questions
Last year, the City of Richmond spent over $16,000 to enhance a 90-year-old Confederate marker, citing a resident’s desire to honor their ancestor.
Bills to enhance religion in schools spur fights between faiths
When Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry was asked to defend his support for a new state law requiring public schools to display a version of the Ten Commandments in public classrooms, he made sure to touch on the bill’s obvious religious connections.
Diverse field emerges for City Council election
Eighteen candidates are vying for seats on the Richmond City Council in the upcoming November election. The field includes seven incumbents and 11 challengers across the city’s nine districts.
Black Caucus backs Biden
More than a week after President Joe Biden’s “bad night” in a debate with former President Donald Trump, some national Democrats have reportedly called for Biden to suspend his reelection campaign. In response, the 32 members of Virginia’s Legislative Black Caucus on Monday voiced their support for Biden to stay in the race.
Mayoral candidates should consider reducing government size
The Richmond mayoral race debate was centered, according to reporter George Copeland Jr., on education, housing and the economy.
NFL suspends Steelers CB Cam Sutton for 8 games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy
The NFL has suspended Pittsburgh Steelers safety Cam Sutton for the first eight games of the 2024 season for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.
Honoring civil rights legacy means embracing new leaders
It has been 60 years since the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. I remember being in college, joining with students from Virginia Union University and elsewhere, advocating for the legislation and registering voters in Richmond.
Local playwright’s ‘Hippocrite’ brings church satire back to stage
“Hippocrite the Musical,” a gospel comedy that sold out its one-night performance last year at the Dominion Energy Center, returns for three shows on July 20 and 21 at The Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education.
Richmond Community Hospital fair celebrates building’s legacy
The 90-year-old former Richmond Community Hospital building was the center of a celebration Sunday as community members gathered to honor its past and advocate for its future.
Roland Martin leads town hall on education reform
Nationally recognized journalist and author Roland Martin will host a town hall meeting on education reform in Richmond on Sunday, July 14.
Hanging Up
Gov. Glenn Youngkin seems to think that it’s a good idea to keep students separated from their mobile phones while they’re in school. We’re inclined to agree with him.
Virginia War Memorial seeks volunteers for flag removal
The Virginia War Memorial is seeking volunteers to help conclude its annual Hill of Heroes celebration, a tribute honoring nearly 12,000 Virginians who died serving their country from World War II to the present.
President must be wise enough to move on, by Michael A. Grant
I have admired Joe Biden since 1988. I did not think the plagiarism charge should have caused him to abort his presidential aspirations back then. I was ecstatic when the seasoned, scrappy senator from Scranton joined — and added heft to — Barack Obama’s run for the White House.
Colliding causes can defeat each other, by Clarence Page
When does political protest seem to become an end in itself?
Bus riders reap benefits of zero fares and new services
GRTC hits high ridership numbers with expansion
On a recent Friday, Joshua Webb and several of his landscaping co-workers were doing their best to escape the late-afternoon sun and humidity as they waited for the bus on Midlothian Turnpike in Chesterfield County to take them home.
Research shows heat exposure disproportionately affects Black Richmonders
Data indicates about 50% of heat-related illnesses happen within walking distance of a cooling center
Michael, a resident of Richmond’s Southside who declined to share his last name, sat on Forest Hill Avenue waiting for a bus Tuesday just before 2 p.m., when a car thermometer recorded the temperature at 94 degrees.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending on Saturday, July 6, confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Virginia rose 20 percent from the previous week, though new admissions remain low. No deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported statewide during that time frame. COVID-19 wastewater levels in the Greater Richmond area remain, on average, below detection.
Virginia joins other states with effort to restrict cellphones in schools
Virginia on Tuesday joined a growing number of states that are pushing for cellphone restrictions in public schools, citing concerns over students’ academic achievement and mental health. Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued an executive order to establish state guidance and model policies for local school systems to adopt by January. “Studies indicate that students who use their phones during class learn less and achieve lower grades,” Youngkin’s order stated. It also cited an “alarming mental health crisis” among adolescents, which is partly driven by cellphones and social media. Last year, Florida became the first state to crack down on phones in school with a new law. Indiana and Ohio passed their own laws this year, while several other states have recently introduced what is becoming known as “phone-free schools” legislation. The National Center for Education Statistics reported that 76% of public schools prohibited “non-academic cell phone use” during the 2021-2022 school year. In Virginia, school districts have been increasingly banning or severely restricting students’ phone use. For example, Lou- doun County Public Schools, passed a new policy last month that generally bans elementary school students from using phones during the school day. Middle school students are allowed to use their phones before or after school but otherwise are expected to store their phones in their lockers. In high school, students are expected to silence their phones and place them in a classroom cubby or storage location during instructional time. Dan Adams, a spokesman for Loudoun County Public Schools, said the school system will have to wait and see what specific directives come from the state. But he said the school system is “confident that our policy is age-appropriate and addresses electronics-free instructional time.” The school board for Hanover County Public Schools, has been focused the issue at length in recent months. And it planned to discuss it at a Tuesday board meeting, assistant superintendent Chris Whitley said. In Richmond, Youngkin’s order had the full support of the superintendent of public schools. “We piloted a cellphone ban last year in some of our high schools and middle schools, and we saw more student engagement in class and fewer distractions throughout the day,” Jason Kamras said. “On top of that, students reported spending more time talking with their peers.” James Fedderman, president of the Virginia Education Association, called on the state “to approach this issue with a nuanced perspective.” “Our priority remains ensuring that policies are practical, enforceable and in the best interest of our educators, students and families,” he said in a statement. Youngkin’s order calls for gathering public input through listening sessions, while other steps include establishing a detailed definition of “cell phone free education.” Todd Reid, a spokesman for the Virginia Department of Education, said in an email that school divisions will need to adopt policies by Jan. 1. “In the legal sense, think of ‘guidance’ as a synonym for ‘regulations,’” he wrote. “We will be going through the of- ficial regulatory process.” But executive orders over local education policy can be difficult to enforce. Last year, the Youngkin administration finalized regula- tions outlining policies for transgender students, including a rule that banned transgender girls from participating on girls’ sports teams. Some local school systems refused to adopt the regulations, criticizing them as discriminatory.
Families celebrate implementation of law allowing early release for some inmates
Santia Nance and Quadaire Patterson’s love story is entering a new chapter. A law took effect last week that allowed certain incarcerated people to be released from prison for acquiring earned sentence credits.
Four-day Black Pride RVA celebration returns
The seventh annual Black Pride RVA, a four-day celebration of Richmond’s LGBTQIA+ community of color, is set for July 18-21.
Sexual assault allegations prompt museums to reconsider Wiley exhibits
Three prominent museums have recently canceled or postponed exhibitions by artist Kehinde Wiley following sexual assault accusations. The Pèrez Art Museum Miami, Minneapolis Institute of Art and Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha, Neb. made these decisions in the past month.
Personality: Cynthia J. Buckler
Spotlight on Board President of Richmond Triangle Players
Women in technology and the executive ranks are not uncommon today, but that wasn’t the case in the early 1980s when Cynthia ‘Cindy’ Buckler began her finance career. That didn’t stop her from rising from branch manager to executive vice president and chief information officer for the Wealth Management Division at Wells Fargo Bank.
Henrico completes its first section of the much- anticipated Fall Line Trail
Henrico County officials cut the ribbon Tuesday of the Spring Park section of the 43-mile Fall Line Trail. The 1,400-foot section is the first to be completed in Henrico County.
RIC recognized for excellence in airport management
Richmond International Airport recently won the Change Management Program Award from Airports Council International-North America.
University of Richmond professor receives fellowship for Black history research
Jillean McCommons, a University of Richmond assistant professor of history and Africana studies, has been awarded the Wilma Dykeman “Faces of Appalachia” Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship by the Appalachian Studies Association.
The Price of Persistence
An important thing to know if you’re a performer, is when it’s time to leave the stage. You don’t want to do it too early, as your audience might feel short-changed if you haven’t sung that song, reached that high note or made that move before walking off with a wave. You also don’t want to stay in the spotlight too long, because as much as they say they love you, it’s vital that you leave the audience wanting more. Otherwise, you might overstay your welcome.
Richmond schools deserve better leadership
As the Richmond Free Press states, there are nine seats up for grabs on the Richmond School Board. It seems to me that we need better guidance and direction on how to steer our youth into the future.
Alvin Parker named Black College Football Hall of Fame National Coach of the Year
Alvin Parker, head football coach at Virginia Union University, has been named the Black College Football Hall of Fame National Coach of the Year.
Flying Squirrels honor local history with upcoming games
The Richmond Flying Squirrels have unveiled an array of promotions for their ongoing home stand against the Harrisburg Senators, running through Sunday, July 14, at The Diamond.
Local First Tee participants to attend Game Changers Academy in Minneapolis
Two teenagers from First Tee — Greater Richmond were recently selected to attend a national leadership academy focused on social justice and community building.
Trojans ready to roar: VSU men’s hoops unveils 2024-25 schedule
Head Coach Lonnie Blow, Jr. and his Virginia State University Men’s Basketball squad face a hard-hitting 25-game slate for the 2024-2025 campaign. The Trojans are set to battle through a schedule packed with thrilling matchups, kicking off with the much-anticipated Trojan Tip-Off Classic.
Richmond entrepreneur advances in Black Ambition Prize competition
A Richmond-based food company has been named a semifinalist in the Black Ambition Prize, an entrepreneurial competition founded by Virginia native and music icon Pharrell Williams.
Freedom Reads founder Betts to receive top honor from Library of Virginia
The Library of Virginia will award its honorary Patron of Letters degree to poet, lawyer and Freedom Reads founder Reginald Dwayne Betts, the library announced Tuesday.
Virginia Museum of History & Culture launches statewide education program
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) has announced the launch of a major statewide civics education program for middle-grade students as part of its 250th Initiative. The program, titled Civics Connects, is designed to provide a comprehensive, classroom-ready resource for Virginia students.
Docuseries spotlights ‘grande dame’ who redefined Southern cooking
The legacy of Edna Lewis, the renowned African American chef celebrated as the “grande dame of Southern cooking,” will be explored in a new docuseries produced by VPM and Field Studio. “Finding Edna Lewis,” set to premiere on July 19, will delve into Lewis’ profound impact on American culinary history through eight monthly episodes hosted by Style Weekly food editor Deb Freeman.
Hanover Tomato Festival returns for 46th year
The Hanover Tomato Festival returns to Pole Green Park on July 12 and 13, marking its 46th year as a community celebration.
CJ Nickolas overcame many obstacles to reach the Olympics. Now, he’s aiming for taekwondo gold
A malformed vertebra couldn’t stop him. Neither could heart surgery, or a change of weight category that everyone thought was a big mistake. Breaking his arm in the buildup to the Paris Games was just a minor distraction, too. It seems there’s almost nothing that could derail CJ Nickolas’ quest for an Olympic medal.
Thursday, July 4
‘Red, White and Lights’ returns to Meadow Farm
Henrico County hosts its annual Red, White and Lights Independence Day celebration on Thursday, July 4, at Meadow Farm Museum in Crump Park, 3400 Mountain Road. The free event will begin at 5 p.m. and feature family-friendly entertainment.
Raymond E. Gross, Air Force veteran and community leader, dies at 89
Raymond E. Gross, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran and community leader, died Monday, May 20, 2024. He was 89.
Thousands of faith leaders, union members, activists rally in D.C.
Thousands of clergy, union members and activists rallied on behalf of the poor near the U.S. Capitol on Saturday, June 29, with faith leaders calling for lawmakers to embrace a slate of policies and for low-wealth Americans to make their voices heard in November as the nation’s “largest potential swing vote.”
New legislation brings aid to family members caring for relatives’ children
For decades, Virginia has ranked poorly among states for providing financial support for kinship carers — grandparents, aunts, uncles and other family members raising children who are their relatives. And a critical state report found many social services departments in Virginia have failed to provide enough oversight and protection for children in the care of their relatives.
Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority names new chief of staff
The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) named Kim Cole as the new chief of staff last week. Cole has over 20 years of experience as a housing professional, including executive positions at Inlivian and the District of Columbia Housing Authority.
McClellan proposes bill to standardize time – on the moon
Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan introduced a bill last week to create standard time zones for the moon and other celestial bodies. The Celestial Time Standardization Act would direct NASA to submit a report to Congress describing a strategy for a lunar standard time within two years of the bill’s passage.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending on Saturday, June 29, confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Virginia rose 40% from the previous week, though new admissions remained low. No deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported statewide during that time frame. COVID-19 wastewater levels in the Greater Richmond area remain, on average, below detection.
What to the slave is the Fourth of July?
This week, we present a portion of Frederick Douglass’ powerful speech “What to the slave is the Fourth of July?” Delivered on July 5, 1852, this address remains a poignant and searing critique of our nation’s founding principles versus its practices.
Fair housing is up to all of us
We all deserve the freedom to choose where we live. But even Virginians who have won a lottery struggle to find a way home.
The shocking discovery that suddenly made reparations deeply personal for one woman
“We don’t plan on the white man for nothing.”
Ruth Wilson squinted through her browline glasses at the image of a smudged, crumpled document on the computer screen. “To all whom it may concern,” she read. “Fergus Wilson having selected 40 acres of land on Sapelo Island, Georgia, pursuant to Special Field Orders, No. 15…has permission to hold and occupy said tract …”
VUU’s Ny Langley to showcase skills at Harlem’s Rucker Park
Harlem’s legendary Rucker Park is about to get a taste of Panther prowess. Virginia Union University’s basketball standout, Ny Langley, has been invited to participate in the HBCU All Star Dream Classic on Aug. 10, when she’ll compete alongside top collegiate talent.
Virginia officials defend ‘free and fair’ elections as primary results are certified
Drawing from bowl sets ballot order for 2024 general elections
Virginia officials on Tuesday certified the results of last month’s congressional primaries and defended the integrity of the state’s voting systems after a contentious election season.
Personality: Jason T. Pritchard
Spotlight on Board President for Substance Abuse and Addiction Recovery Alliance
Jason Pritchard knows rock bottom — and what it takes to lift oneself from the depths of addiction. As the board president of Richmond-based Substance Abuse and Addiction Recovery Alliance (SAARA), he is constantly fighting for the underserved.
Flying Squirrels’ July 4 game sells out for 14th straight year
The Richmond Flying Squirrels’ July 4 game at The Diamond has sold out, the team announced recently. This marks the 14th consecutive year the franchise has sold out its Independence Day game since its inception in 2010.
Tribute planned for civil rights leader Maggie L. Walker
The National Park Service will honor Maggie Lena Walker’s 160th birthday with a two-week celebration featuring events across Richmond highlighting the Black banking pioneer’s legacy.
Tribute planned for civil rights leader Maggie L. Walker
The National Park Service will honor Maggie Lena Walker’s 160th birthday with a two-week celebration featuring events across Richmond highlighting the Black banking pioneer’s legacy.
July 4 holiday closings
n observance of the Independence Day holiday on Thursday, July 4, please note the following:
Historic former hospital site of Community History Fair
A part of Richmond’s past returns next weekend as the site of the former Richmond Community Hospital hosts a Community History Fair to commemorate its 90th anniversary. The event, set for Sunday, July 7, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., aims to celebrate the institution’s history and raise awareness about its uncertain future.
Richmond Battlefield Park to shutter Tredegar Station, boost river programs
Richmond National Battlefield Park is set to close its visitor contact station at the historic Tredegar Iron Works on July 5. The National Park Service (NPS) has maintained a presence at Tredegar for several years, occupying a small leased space near the entrance to the American Civil War Museum. With the lease expiring this year, park officials are planning to expand their community outreach.
Survivors of Tulsa Race Massacre challenge Oklahoma high court decision
Attorneys for the last two remaining survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre asked the Oklahoma Supreme Court on Tuesday to reconsider the case they dismissed last month and called on the Biden administration to help the two women seek justice.
Black farmers’ association calls for Tractor Supply CEO’s resignation after company cuts DEI efforts
The National Black Farmers Association called on Tractor Supply’s president and CEO Tuesday to step down after the rural retailer announced that it would drop most of its corporate diversity and climate advocacy efforts.
Local BBQ restaurant crowned ‘Best Chef’ at Chicago barbecue competition
The Original Ronnie’s BBQ from Henrico County won the “Best Chef” title at the Six in the City Southern BBQ Experience event in Chicago last month. The competition featured pitmasters and chefs from six southern cities known for their barbecue.
Despite debate performance, support for Biden remains strong among Black leaders, by Tamil R. Harris
President Joe Biden and the first lady spent Sunday at Camp David with their grandchildren after his debate performance. At the same time, the media and a growing chorus of Democrats speculate on the 81-year-old leader’s future.
Environmental justice for Cumberland County, by Benjamin Chavis Jr.
Cumberland County stands on the edge of an environmental catastrophe. An hour west of Richmond, the historic town of Cumberland is set to become the site of the proposed Green Ridge Disposal and Recycling Facility. This 1,200 - acre mega-landfill plans to operate nearly 24/7, releasing harmful pollutants into the air, contaminating the community’s drinking water and depreciating the surrounding residential land value each day.
Richmond basketball bolsters staff: Dollar named assistant coach
Darian Dollar, who served as video coordinator for the University of Richmond’s men’s basketball program last season, has been promoted to assistant coach/director of basketball operations and recruiting, Head Coach Chris Mooney announced last week.
Colonial Downs prepares for 2024 racing season
Colonial Downs Racetrack is gearing up for its 2024 thoroughbred racing season, set to begin July 11. The track announced last week that more than 100 horses have already arrived, with approximately 700 expected during the nine-week season.
HBCU All-Stars complete historic first international tour in France
The 10-member HBCU All-Star basketball squad successfully completed its first-ever international tour in France last week after competing in the QUIA 54 International Tournament and a series of exhibition games.
Former Ram Owusu Sekyere returns to VCU
VCU Women’s Soccer Head Coach Lindsey Martin recently announced the hiring of Owusu Sekyere as assistant coach. Sekyere returns to VCU after spending the past season as an assistant coach at George Mason. He previously served as a volunteer assistant under Martin for two seasons from 2021-2022.
NFL Players Choir set for Essence festival performance
The Players Choir, a group composed of current and former NFL players, is scheduled to perform at the 30th Anniversary Essence Festival of Culture on Sunday, July 7.
Local drag performers crowned with ‘Virginia Pride’ titles
Drag royalty was celebrated at the annual Virginia Pride Pageant last Sunday.
Election to reshape Richmond School Board with nine seats up for grabs
Richmond’s highest education authority is set for a significant political shift with the upcoming general elections for the Richmond School Board in November. Sixteen candidates are seeking the public’s approval for the nine representative district seats of the Richmond Public Schools system, with four candidates running unopposed. The candidates bring a wide array of experiences and perspectives to the table, including educators, parents, business leaders and community activists.
