Thursday, March 27
Historical marker for Essex Old Folks Home unveiling this Saturday near Angel Visit
A historical marker recognizing the Old Folks Home, a facility that cared for impoverished elderly Black residents in Essex County during the early 20th century, will be dedicated this weekend. The Virginia Department of Historic Resources approved the marker, which will be unveiled Saturday, March 29, at noon. The marker is located across Route 17 from 28882 Tidewater Trail in Dunnsville.
Baseball game raises funds for inclusive sports programs
The rivalry between Benedictine College Preparatory and St. Christopher’s School will take on a different meaning when they face off in the 15th Annual Pass the Hat Baseball Game 7 p.m. Saturday, April 5, at RF&P Park’s Glen Allen Stadium. The game has become a beloved tradition in Richmond, where competition meets community to support a greater cause — raising funds and awareness for Jacob’s Chance inclusive sports programs.
Norfolk State’s Diamond Johnson named HBCU National Player of the Year
Norfolk State guard Diamond Johnson has been named the HBCU National Player of the Year, headlining the 2024-25 HBCU Division I Women’s All-American teams presented by BOXTOROW (Bringing Out the Excellence in Sports through Recognition of Outstanding Winners).
VUU athletes shine in field events at season opener
Virginia Union University men’s track and field team had a strong showing in its first outdoor meet of the season at the University of Richmond on March 13 and 14.
Flying Squirrels reveal revamped Copa La Diversión branding
The Richmond Flying Squirrels unveiled a fresh new look for their Copa La Diversión identity, Las Ardillas Voladoras de Richmond, during a lively reveal event last week. The updated branding includes a revamped logo, new uniforms and an overall style makeover.
Violence, theater and the Luigi Effect, by Ty Jones
Many believe that violence should never be used to combat violence, thinking it only breeds more violence and corrupts the moral center of a liberation movement. However, history has shown that the ruling class only takes notice of their exploitation of the working class when the threat of violence is present. Those who find this idea abhorrent, feel free to sit this one out. For those still with me, as the young folks say — L.F.G!
South girls and North boys triumph in 804 All-Star showdown
The 804 All-Star Games on March 22 brought together some of the top high school basketball talent in the Richmond-Petersburg area.
Minority Business Agency a target, by Marc H. Morial
We must also provide an expanded opportunity to participate in the free enterprise system at all levels—not only to share the economic benefits of the free enterprise system more broadly, but also to encourage pride, dignity, and a sense of independence. In order to do this, we need to remove commercial obstacles which have too often stood in the way of minority group members—obstacles such as the unavailability of credit, insurance, and technical assistance. Involvement in business has always been a major route toward participation in the mainstream of American life. Our aim is to open that route to potentially successful persons who have not had access to it before.” – President Richard M. Nixon
Governor leaves workers hanging
This year, lawmakers in the General Assembly came together, crossing party lines to pass a series of bills that could bring real change to Virginia. These included efforts to raise the minimum wage, create a paid family and medical leave program and launch a legal retail marijuana market set to open in 2026. These bills were seen as a way to lift up working families, give people the support they need to care for loved ones and tap into a new source of revenue for the state.
Food bank outreach center launches School Pantry program to fight student hunger
Students facing food insecurity in Chesterfield County will now have greater access to nutritious meals and essential supplies with the launch of the Chesterfield Food Bank Outreach Center’s (CFBOC) School Pantry Program. The initiative was officially unveiled during a special event March 25 at J.G. Hening Elementary School.
Reynolds student earns New Century Transfer Pathway Scholarship
Sidney King, a student at Reynolds Community College, was recently named Virginia’s recipient of the New Century Transfer Pathway Scholarship. King was selected from more than 2,100 applicants across 1,300 community colleges nationwide.
Maude Trevvett principal wins 2025 REB Leadership Award
During a recent school event, Arainau “Rainy” Neal was named the recipient of the 2025 REB Award for Distinguished Educational Leadership, marking a milestone in her career at Maude Trevvett Elementary.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending Saturday, March 22, COVID-19 accounted for .9% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, with overall respiratory illness rates low and trending down compared to previous data. No COVID-19-related deaths were reported during this period at press time.
City’s first tiny forest takes root at Fonticello Park
Richmond’s first tiny forest was planted at Fonticello Park on March 15, an effort led by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Richmond Parks and Recreation with the help of about 25 volunteers.
IRS-certified students offer tax assistance at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
The University of Richmond is offering free tax preparation services for the 14th consecutive year, as part of the United Way of Greater Richmond and Petersburg’s Tax Assistance Program.
Bagby to lead Virginia Democrats into pivotal election year
A three-way race for one of the state’s most important political positions ended last weekend with Sen. Lamont Bagby becoming the new chair of the Democratic Party of Virginia.
Richmond 34 event rescheduled for March 28 at VUU
The postponed Richmond 34 event will take place this Friday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Claude G. Perkins Living and Learning Center at Virginia Union University.
Henrico Education Foundation CEO to exit
Henrico Education Foundation CEO Damon Jiggetts will step down this spring to become president and CEO of Access College Foundation in Norfolk.
Rapper Styles P to perform at Ember Music Hall
Styles P, hip-hop artist and member of The Lox, will perform at Ember Music Hall on Saturday, March 29. Styles P will be joined by Technician The DJ, with Richmond’s DJ Hypeee providing additional music throughout the night. Cannondeck will open the show.
City sends property tax rebate checks with incorrect names
A mix-up with property tax rebate checks sent this week has left some Richmond residents with incorrect names printed on their checks. The city confirmed no personal information was compromised and is working to correct the error.
Packed church watches as Avula pledges support for RISC’s proposals
Mayor Danny Avula made several key commitments to Richmonders Involved to Strengthen Our Communities on Tuesday evening, pledging to explore a Gun Violence Reduction Strategy and allocate millions in funding for affordable housing and mobile home repairs. The agreements were made during RISC’s annual Nehemiah Action meeting at Saint Paul’s Baptist Church in Henrico County attended by more than 2,000 group members, according to RISC.
‘Detroit ’67,’ a family drama set against a backdrop of social unrest
It started with a police raid on an unlicensed bar in Detroit. It ended with 43 dead, 1,189 injured and more than 400 buildings destroyed. Alternately called the 1967 Detroit Riot, the Detroit Uprising, the Detroit Rebellion and the 12th Street Riot, this five-day conflict primarily pitted African American residents against the Detroit Police Department. Many longstanding factors, including police brutality, housing segregation and unemployment, contributed to the riot.
Personality: Leyla McCalla
Spotlight on University of Richmond artist in residence
The daughter of Haitian immigrants, Leyla McCalla uses folk traditions and African rhythms to bridge the past and present, exploring the experiences of the Black diaspora. Her blend of folk music, showcasing her mastery of the cello, banjo and guitar, led to her role as artist in residence at the University of Richmond three years ago.
Gov. ducks protest, unleashes veto wave
Youngkin avoids rally during Patrick Henry reenactment
As Gov. Glenn Youngkin attended a reenactment of Patrick Henry’s famous “Give me liberty or give me death” speech Sunday at St. John’s Church, more than 500 protesters gathered outside, calling attention to what they described as modern-day threats to democracy.
Youngkin rejects key progressive reforms
In the final year of his tenure, Gov. Glenn Youngkin carried out his duty to sign, veto and amend hundreds of bills handed to him by the Democratic-controlled legislature for the last time Monday, rejecting a proposal to raise the minimum wage incrementally to $15 per hour, a multi-year attempt to establish a Prescription Drug Affordability Board and several voter registration and election measures.
¡FridaFest! at VMFA to honor Frida Kahlo and her Mexican heritage
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts will bring Frida Kahlo’s legacy to life April 5, with a community celebration. From 1 to 7 p.m., ¡FridaFest! will mark the opening of the museum’s “Frida: Beyond the Myth” exhibition, offering visitors an experience filled with music, art, food and culture.
Preserving our natural wonders is a cause worth fighting for, by Ben Jealous
Dorothy Gibbs chanted “Save our parks” from her wheelchair while holding a sign that read, “97 years old, still fighting for public lands!”
Trump’s free speech hypocrisy, by Clarence Page
President Donald Trump and the GOP have called themselves the party of free speech. But since taking office, the president has been tightening up his definition of freedom like a hangman’s noose.
Remembering Dr. King
In this April 3, 2008 editorial from the Richmond Free Press archives, our late publisher and founder Raymond Boone reflects on the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Boone, who championed civil rights through his journalism, draws parallels between Dr. King’s activism and the ongoing fight for justice in our communities.
5th Baptist Church hosts 5th Annual MLK Memorial Luncheon and Awards Program
On the day after the 57th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, the community will come together to recognize individuals who continue his fight for justice and progress at the 5th Annual MLK Memorial Luncheon and Awards Program, hosted by Living the Dream, Inc. The event will take place 2 p.m., April 5 at 5th Baptist Church.
Budget ideas, housing grants take center stage at council meeting
Richmond City Council convened Monday to review the city’s spending and housing plans, with council members pressing for more clarity on the financial implications of several key proposals.
Tuesday, March 25
Union leaders denounce Musk administration’s federal workforce policies
Protesters call for action against ‘arbitrary’ firings and demotions
A group of about 30 members and allies of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) rallied at the State Capitol on Friday to oppose Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, which the organization said “degrades” civil servants.
Monday, March 24
Activists call for unified action against escalating violence in Gaza
Chants and speeches filled Monroe Park Wednesday evening as about 100 people gathered at the Checkers House building, calling for an arms embargo in the ongoing war in Gaza.
Thursday, March 20
Personality: Margaret ‘Meg’ Turner
Spotlight on Women in Turning liaison for the American Association of Woodturners
Margaret “Meg” Turner discovered her passion for woodturning six years ago. It began with a class at Woodcraft, a local woodworking store for professionals and hobbyists. Captivated by the craft, she made it her main hobby and is now the liaison for Women in Turning for the American Association of Woodturners.
UR to host inaugural Richmond Italian Film Festival
The University of Richmond will host the inaugural Richmond Italian Film Festival March 21-24, featuring acclaimed contemporary Italian cinema and a restored classic.
Virtual book talk explores slave trade in Civil War South
The Library of Virginia will host a free virtual talk by historian Robert K.D. Colby on his debut book “An Unholy Traffic: Slave Trading in the Civil War South” on Tuesday, March 25, from noon to 1 p.m. .
Lounge to anchor year-round events at CarMax Park
The Richmond Flying Squirrels announced on Friday an expanded partnership with Atlantic Union Bank, which will become the first Founding Partner at CarMax Park, the team’s new ballpark scheduled to open in 2026.
Softball program receives support from Virginia Union
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The Virginia Union University softball team will host a clinic for Richmond Public Schools’ co-ed middle school program on March 25 at 2:30 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School. More than 80 students from all eight RPS middle schools are expected to attend, according to Dr. Stefanie Ramsey, RPS coordinator for K-12 athletics and activities, who helped launch the program.
Henrico to host 2025 wheelchair basketball national championships
In April, the Henrico Sports & Event Center will be the center of intense competition as the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) Adult and Junior Division National Championships return for a second year. With 104 teams and more than 1,200 athletes ready to battle for supremacy, the tournament promises high-energy action and unforgettable moments on the court.
If it walks like a tax, it’s a tax, by Marc H. Morial
“You can’t really run a campaign where you’re like: I want to cut taxes for rich people and raise them on the poor. So instead, it’s all of this smoke-and-mirrors distraction about how foreigners are tak- ing advantage of us ... It’s a story that, if you don’t know any economics and you haven’t stopped to think about it, sounds appealing. And the more people who buy that story, the more he can do this fiscal switch and have an excuse for the tax cuts.” — Kimberly Clausing
Month of madness
For years, I was immune to the siren sound of rubber soles on plywood, bouncing balls and the screams of underclassmen that permeate this time of year, dubbed “March Madness.” I gracefully bowed out of sports discussions that turned to the collegiate variety. But now I might be hooked.
Grant funds VUU’s second doula certification program
A $40,000 grant from the Virginia Department of Health will fund Virginia Union University’s second cohort of its Doula Certification Program, making VUU the first historically Black college or university in Virginia to offer follow-up doula training.
Dominion Energy, Elegba Folklore Society recognized for cultural contributions
Virginia Humanities has announced the three recipients of the inaugural Commonwealth Humanities Award, recognizing individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to the humanities and their impact on Virginia’s cultural landscape.
Cemetery Collaboratory symposium to explore long-term cemetery care
The worn headstones and overgrown paths of many historic cemeteries tell a story of neglect, but a new symposium in Richmond is working to change that.
VCU Health cleaners secure first union contract
Richmond workers earned an important victory this week, when 400 environmental service cleaners employed at VCU Health won their first union contract with the medical institution.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending Saturday, March 15, COVID-19 accounted for 1% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, with overall respiratory illness rates low and trending down compared to previous data. No COVID-19-related deaths were reported during this period at press time.
Amy Popovich named new deputy chief administrative officer
The City of Richmond appointed Amy Popovich as the next deputy chief administrative officer for Human Services on Tuesday.
Street of service
Richmond City Council recognized the Rev. Robert A. Winfree on March 15 with an honorary street block sign designation, acknowledging his service to the community.
John Marshall boys dominate in state title game, girls finish in 2nd place
The John Marshall High School basketball teams both made a run in the Virginia High School League (VHSL) state championship games last weekend at the Siegel Center. While the boys’ team came out victorious, the girls’ squad fell short.
VCU heads to NCAA Tournament as No. 11 seed, set to face BYU
Virginia Commonwealth University is headed back to the NCAA Tournament after securing the Atlantic 10 Championship, earning the No. 11 seed in the West Region. The Rams (28-6) will face sixth-seeded Brigham Young University (24-9) Thursday afternoon in Denver in the tournament’s first round.
Ken Burns brings ‘The American Revolution’ to Richmond
Ken Burns will begin the promotional tour for his upcoming six-part documentary series, “The American Revolution,” in Richmond on March 23.
Young composer pens symphonic tribute to Arthur Ashe
For Joe Jaxson, notes are more than symbols on a page. As Richmond Symphony attendees will soon hear, the Gen Z composer has a talent for transforming an orchestra into a chorus of storytellers.
Empowering school boards for a stronger educational future, by Ethan Ashley
As our education system becomes increasingly destabilized, it is more important than ever that our local elected leaders have the knowledge, skills, resources and capacity to fill in the gap should federal structures, guidelines and oversight disappear.
Donald Trump’s labeling dilemma, by Clarence Page
Amid the blizzard of breaking news, a familiar irritation poked through: ethnic labeling.
March for women
It’s Women’s History Month again. Perhaps we’re not alone in thinking it feels a little different this year, considering the political climate that we’re inhabiting. Conversations about women’s rights, representation and equality are more charged, as a cultural shift impacts the country in regressive ways.
Globetrotting Black nutritionist Flemmie P. Kittrell revolutionized early childhood health, education, by Brandy Thomas Wells
Nutrition is among the most critical issues of our time. Diet-related illnesses are shortening life spans and the lack of conveniently located and affordable nutritious food makes it hard for many Americans to enjoy good health.
North Carolina’s largest public university, NC State, names new chancellor
The University of North Carolina Board of Governors has chosen the next person to lead the state’s largest public university by enrollment after its longtime chancellor is set to retire soon.
NACA brings three-day homeownership event to Richmond
Richmond residents looking for a path to homeownership amidst rising costs and federal housing cuts can seize a new opportunity starting Friday, March 21. The Neighborhood Association Corporation of America (NACA) is bringing its Achieve the Dream event back to the city, offering critical resources and support for those aiming to secure a home.
Jackson Ward hotel project moves forward with new development plan
A new development is set to transform a 2.95-acre site in Richmond’s Historic Jackson Ward.
State advocates, legislators warn of impact of potential SNAP cuts
Keeping food on the table is a challenge for Richmond resident Tamika Spears. A stay-at-home mom who is disabled, she relies on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to feed her and her three children. With a wide range of diets, limited purchasing options, rising food costs, and other expenses, a typical trip to the store is tough to manage for her.
Local civil rights legend ‘Fergie’ Reid turns 100
Trailblazing politician William “Fergie” Reid turned 100 years old on Tuesday, and his impact and influence is still felt across the state’s political scene.
Carl Lumbly talks superheroes, Hollywood and breaking barriers
Carl Lumbly’s journey into acting began with an unexpected twist.
McClellan, state lawmakers push back against Medicaid threats
With over 1 million people in Virginia on Medicaid, about 630,000 of those could stand to lose coverage should Republicans in Congress cut federal funding, Democratic state lawmakers have stressed.
Community groups receive over $500,000 from Health Equity Fund
Nine local organizations have been awarded grants totaling more than $500,000 from the Richmond Health Equity Fund (HEF) to address various health disparities across the city.
Thursday, March 13
Smith qualifies for NCAA Indoor Nationals
Virginia Union University freshman Antonio Smith has qualified for the NCAA Division II Indoor Track and Field Nationals. Smith will compete Friday, March 14, at Fall Creek Pavilion in Indianapolis.
Celebrity guests and activities highlight expanded GalaxyCon
The line between fantasy and reality blurs later this month when superheroes, villains and beloved characters from across the entertainment universe converge on Richmond for the city’s largest pop culture event. GalaxyCon returns to Richmond March 27-30 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center for a four-day pop culture celebration.
Outdoor Festivals signal the changing seasons in Richmond
As sure as the temperatures begin to rise, Richmond’s festival season begins, signaling the arrival of spring. The city’s streets and parks become gathering places for food, music and celebration as locals shake off the winter chill and welcome the outdoors again.
New bill relaxes physician requirements for boxing, wrestling events
The General Assembly passed a bill making it easier for a physician to serve ringside at certain sporting events, and extending the period a promoter has to declare any earnings. Before the bill passed, physicians who examine boxers, martial artists or wrestlers before they enter the ring must have held a medical license in Virginia for at least five years.
VSU names alumna Tiffani-Dawn Sykes new athletic director
Virginia State University recently named Tiffani-Dawn Sykes as its new associate vice president for intercollegiate athletics, bringing a former Trojan student-athlete back to her alma mater.
Citizens group calls for halt to Fall Line Trail
The Fall Line Trail will be a major construction project and a permanent addition to the city. It should be built only after thorough study and consideration of the cost, safety, environmental, traffic and neighborhood impacts.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending Saturday, March 8, COVID-19 accounted for 1.1% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, with overall respiratory illness rates low and trending down compared to previous data. No COVID-19-related deaths were reported during this period at press time.
‘Prides of March’ protest headed to State Capitol
Protesters will take to the grounds of the Virginia State Capitol on Saturday, March 15, as Virginia 50501 hosts a “die-in” to advocate for transgender rights and gender equity.
City’s vacuum leaf collection program ends March 14
Piles of leaves still lingering in Richmond yards may not be going anywhere soon unless residents act fast. The city’s vacuum leaf collection program is wrapping up for the season, with the last day to request service set for March 14.
Concert honors Sister Rosetta Tharpe at Hippodrome
Sister Rosetta Tharpe, a former Barton Heights resident often called the “mother of rock & roll,” helped shape modern music with her pioneering guitar work and gospel-infused rock style. Her influence can be heard in the music of Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley and Jimi Hendrix. During the height of her career, Tharpe made Richmond her home, and now a group of musicians are coming together to honor her legacy.
Personality: CiNease Freeman
Spotlight on the 2024 Ambassador for Fight Colorectal Cancer
CiNease Freeman, who was young and had no family history of the disease, ignored the symptoms of rectal cancer for two years. But at 28, she could no longer overlook the condition, which typically affects men around age 62 and 63 for women, according to the American Cancer Society. Two years later, Freeman is celebrating both her 30th birthday and being two years cancer-free.
Hanover County neighbors raise concerns over proposed landfill expansion
Neighbors from Brown Grove, a historically African American community in Hanover County, attended a town hall meeting March 10 to express their concerns over the proposed expansion of the Ashcake Road Landfill. Jeff S. Stoneman, a member of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors representing the Beaverdam District, hosted the meeting at the Hanover County Administration Building for constituents to share their concerns.
Former rivals partner to bring racing back to Southside Speedway
Friday night racing is set to return to the Richmond area as Southside Speedway prepares for a revival under new leadership.
Pentagon purge targets Tuskegee Airmen photos in DEI crackdown, by Ben Jealous
My grandfather’s first cousin was Lt. Col. Howard Lee Baugh. Cousin Howard was part of the 99th Pursuit Squadron, the first unit of the Tuskegee Airmen. This month marks the 84th anniversary of the activation of the squadron at Chanute Field in Rantoul, Ill., about 120 miles southwest of Chicago.
When grandstanding falls flat, by Clarence Page
My advice to congressional Democrats: If you’re going to embrace performative politics, be sure you give a good performance.
How Bloody Sunday shocked America into action, by Marc H. Morial
“At times history and fate meet at a single time in a single place to shape a turning point that is man’s unending search for freedom. So it was at Lexington and Concord. So it was a century ago at Appomattox. So it was last week in Selma, Ala.” — President Lyndon Johnson
New amphitheater must answer to climate and culture
A few weeks ago, a Richmond Free Press letter writer questioned the need for a new amphitheater in the city. In case you weren’t aware, the Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront is a 7,500-capacity outdoor Downtown concert venue set to open in June.
Charges against VCU encampment protesters dismissed
All charges have been dropped for 13 individuals arrested and charged with unlawful assembly and trespassing during a protest and encampment against the war in Gaza at Virginia Commonwealth University nearly a year ago.
State officials highlight flood dangers, urge preparedness
As Virginians prepare for the upcoming spring downpours and hurricane season, state officials are urging residents to assess their flood risk and consider flood insurance during Virginia Flood Safety Awareness Week, which runs March 9-15.
Mayor Avula announces permanent appointments for city leaders
Richmond officials have permanently appointed five department directors, a move they say will strengthen leadership and improve city operations. The appointees, who previously served in interim or deputy roles, bring experience in public policy, communications, housing, utilities and general services.
Public mobility leads way in People’s Budget submissions for city
Richmond residents are calling for improved public spaces, enhanced pedestrian safety, and better access to healthy foods, based on submissions from a pilot program that allows the public to decide how $3 million in city funding is allocated.
Adjusting to a new rhythm in Ghana
Time moves differently in Ghana. Conversations stretch, schedules shift and community takes precedence over the clock. For African Americans moving there, adjusting to this cultural rhythm can be one of the biggest challenges.
Patriots make history with dominant A-10 title win
George Mason University women’s basketball reached a historic milestone Sunday, securing its first-ever Atlantic 10 Championship with a 73-58 victory over Saint Joseph’s.
Carlton T. Brooks, Richmond funeral director for seven decades, dies at 98
For decades, Carlton T. Brooks was a trusted figure in Richmond, serving both the living and the departed. The founder and owner of Carlton T. Brooks Funeral Home died Monday, March 3, 2025, at 98, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
D.C. begins removing Black Lives Matter Plaza near the White House
Starlette Thomas remembers coming down almost daily to the intersection of 16th and H streets, to protest police brutality and systemic racial iniquities during the summer of 2020. On Monday, the 45-year old Bowie, Md., resident returned to the site of those protests to mourn the end of Black Lives Matter Plaza.
Protesters decry anti-trans policies at Capitol Square demonstration
Speakers highlight the growing risks for transgender youth and families
On Saturday, Capitol Square was lined with tombstones, each bearing the name of a murdered transgender person. Activists, lying still on the lawn, symbolized the growing threat of violence and hatred against transgender individuals.
Thursday, March 6
Marching Forth
Protest challenges Trump policies
Hundreds gathered in Capitol Square on Tuesday for the “March 4th Democracy,” protest march, a show of resistance aimed against the Trump administration’s policies that threaten reproductive rights.
Personality: Bernette Hardy-Keyes
Spotlight on Richmond area president of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women
Bernette Hardy-Keyes saw an opportunity when a stranger knocked on her door, inviting her to help charter the National Coalition of 100 Black Women -Richmond Metropolitan Area Chapter (NCBW-RMAC). She had been searching for a community service organization to join, and a neighbor, aware of her work with the local homeowners association, recommended her.
Olympic champions, amateurs flock to Kenya for world-class training
As dawn breaks over the sleepy town of Iten, its dusty tracks come alive with packs of runners keeping rhythm, often followed by cheerful children headed to school. Some of the athletes are elite Kenyans. Others travel from farther afield.
Poor communication, delayed maintenance blamed for water crisis
Poor communication, a lack of preparation and decades of deferred maintenance projects worsened a crisis that began with an outage at Richmond’s water treatment plant and left residents without running water for days last month, according to a new report released Monday.
VMI board votes against contract renewal for first Black superintendent
Virginia Military Institute’s first Black superintendent will leave his position June 30 after the school’s board voted against renewing his contract, a decision that followed months of political debate.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending Saturday, March 1, COVID-19 accounted for 1% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, with overall respiratory illness rates low and trending down compared to previous data. No COVID-19-related deaths were reported during this period at press time.
Protesters in Jefferson Park denounce treatment of immigrants
About 50 Richmond area residents gathered Sunday afternoon at Jefferson Park to support immigrant communities facing state and federal investigations, detention and deportation.
RPS proposes $30.8M spending increase in budget
The Richmond School Board unanimously approved a revised fiscal year 2026 budget increase of $30.8 million over the previous year at Tuesday’s meeting, following weeks of deliberation and public input.
A chorus of goodbyes
The hits just keep coming, for people who love music and the people who make it. This year, we’ve already said goodbye to a remarkable group of artists across genres who each left a lasting impact on music and culture.
Don’t ‘reverse’ our national progress, by Clarence Page
Marlean Ames of Akron, Ohio, is not gay or a member of a racial minority. But, please, she points out, don’t hold that against her, as she alleges her employers have, as she takes her “reverse discrimination” case all the way to the Supreme Court.
Fireworks, giveaways, special jerseys spotlight Squirrel’s 15th season
A night at a Richmond Flying Squirrels game is about more than baseball. Whether it’s fireworks lighting up the sky, fans walking away with unique giveaways or special theme nights transforming The Diamond, the Squirrels have built their reputation on making every game an event.
Governor grants clemency to police officer convicted in fatal shooting
Days after a judge sentenced a Virginia police officer to prison in the fatal shooting of an unarmed man accused of stealing sunglasses, the state’s Republican governor granted the fired officer clemency, meaning he won’t have to serve further time behind bars.
Two-day event to bring women together for inspiration, community
Women seeking encouragement, spiritual renewal and community support will come together for “Empowered Women of Faith: Inspiring Change and Breaking Barriers.”
Richmond to host Broadway hits, including ‘The Wiz,’ ‘The Outsiders’
Broadway in Richmond recently unveiled its 2025-2026 season lineup, which will feature four Richmond premieres, two returning family favorites and the return of an iconic musical.
Henrico County native embraces new life in Ghana’s Eastern Region
Henrico County native Indee Jordan first visited Ghana in 2006, searching for a place to surround herself with “people who looked like her.” It took years of planning before she and her husband decided to make the West African country their new home. In 2022, they settled into a small resort town in the Eastern Region of Ghana called Atimpoku. Located along the Volta River, about two hours north of the capital city of Accra, she said her family’s new home provides a profound sense of belonging and peace.
Woodford announces bid for Virginia’s 73rd House District
Justin Woodford recently announced his candidacy for Virginia’s 73rd District in the House of Delegates, focusing his campaign on issues affecting working and middle-class residents.
Richmond SCLC elects new officers, board members
The Richmond chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference chose new officers and board members during its election Feb. 27.
Clemency for a cop
We believe the dying words of Timothy McCree Johnson. We don’t think he was reaching for anything when he was shot by a “fearful” Fairfax County police officer as he ran away from him on a March evening in 2023. We do think the governor of Virginia is reaching when he states that freeing the former officer who killed Johnson is “in the interest of justice.”
Roberta Flack’s music and message, by Marc H. Morial
“I’m deeply saddened that many of the songs I recorded 50 years ago about civil rights, equal rights, poverty, hunger, and suffering in our society are still relevant in 2020. I hope that people will hear these songs in a new way as they connect to their lives today, to this pandemic, to the growing economic disparities, to Black Lives Matter, to police brutality, to activism versus apathy, and the need for each of us to see it and address it.” – Roberta Flack
Virginia’s public workers deserve a voice — it’s time to act, by Felicia Boney
Last year, my City of Richmond co-workers and I came together to make history and negotiate one of the first-ever union contracts for front line City workers. Now, we need to expand the freedom to collectively bargain to all public service workers around Virginia, so that all workers and all communities can share in the benefits that come when we empower working people.
Time to recognize Pauli Murray’s legacy in Richmond
Thank you for your recent Personality feature on Russell W. Scott, current president of the Howard University Alumni Club of Richmond. It’s vital to highlight the achievements, both local and universal, of HBCU alumni, not only during Black History Month, but throughout the year.
Judge recalled as ‘legend’
Former judge Willard H. Douglas Jr. was a legend among men. He was the type of person who could hold a conversation with a layman, governor or any other dignitary. I knew him very well from working next door to him at the Richmond Juvenile Detention Center on Mecklenburg Street.
Virginia State captures CIAA title, awaits NCAA selection
Virginia State claimed its first CIAA men’s basketball championship since 2019 with a 71-64 victory over Bluefield State in the 2025 Food Lion CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament on Saturday at CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore. .
Eryn Byrd, Lauryn Taylor help VCU secure second at A-10
VCU placed second at the 2025 Atlantic 10 Conference Championships, earning eight medals across all events on the second day of competition. The Rams were led by Lauryn Taylor, who won three gold medals, and Eryn Byrd, who earned her fourth career gold in the shot put.
Byers named Black College Football Player of the Year
Jada Byers, a record-setting rusher at Virginia Union University, was recently named Black College Football Player of the Year by the Black College Football Hall of Fame.
Orchard House Middle School to host screening of ‘Daughters’
Orchard House Middle School will host a public screening of “Daughters” on March 20 in partnership with Girls For a Change. The documentary follows four young girls as they prepare for a Daddy Daughter Dance with their incarcerated fathers, examining the impact of separation on their relationships.
Calendar-Ray honored for a lifetime of community service
Cassandra Calendar-Ray was honored Feb. 22 for her dedication to improving the lives of Virginia families at a ceremony held at The Betty J. Queen Intergenerational Center in Louisa. The NAACP Branch #7085 recognized her with the NAACP Phenomenal Woman Plaque and the Harry Leroy Nuckols Memorial Certificate of Recognition for her exceptional community service.
Sigma Gamma Rho to host youth symposium focused on girls’ empowerment
In response to growing concerns about the safety and well-being of young girls, the Iota Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority will host its annual Youth Symposium on March 8 at Fairfield Middle School.
Wednesday, March 5
Tributes pour in for R&B singer Angie Stone after her death
Fans are remembering the voice and songs of trailblazer Angie Stone after her death at 63 in a weekend crash on an Alabama highway as she traveled from a performance.
