Rev. Adkins-Jones returns to preach at Second Baptist Church revival
The Rev. Timothy Levi Adkins-Jones, a Richmond native and accomplished theologian, returns to his hometown for a special revival at Second Baptist Church (West End) on Oct. 28-29.
Panthers’ defense shines in second straight shutout win
Jada Byers rushed for 188 yards and two touchdowns, leading Virginia Union University to a 35-0 victory over Elizabeth City State University on Saturday at Hovey Stadium.
Allianz to sponsor new riverfront amphitheater
Allianz Partners, a Germany-based financial services company, has been announced as the title sponsor of Richmond’s new riverfront amphitheater, set to open next summer. The venue, named Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront, will span 4 acres in Downtown Richmond and is expected to host 30 shows each season, establishing itself as a prime East Coast destination for top touring artists.
Peggy Davis, VSU athletics VP, dies
Peggy Davis, Virginia State University’s associate vice president for athletics who led the institution’s sports programs to numerous championships and accolades over nearly three decades, died Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024. She was a longtime fixture in NCAA Division II athletics.
Richmond Tree Week focuses on urban forest restoration
Richmond is set to embrace nature during its fifth annual Richmond Tree Week, Oct. 11 through 20. With over 20 local organizations joining forces, the city will host 40 events dedicated to enhancing the urban forest. Attendees can expect a variety of activities, including volunteer tree plantings, free tree giveaways, workshops, and guided walking and biking tours.
Valentine Museum showcases painter Edmund Archer’s works
The Valentine Museum is presenting “Edmund Archer: Perspectives on Black Dignity,” featuring 10 works by the late artist Edmund Archer (1904-1986). Archer’s art is distinguished by its commitment to faithfully capturing the physical details of his subjects, challenging the prevailing stereotypes of the late Jim Crow era and offering a dignified representation of their humanity.
Richmond National Battlefield Park to honor Black soldiers’ voting in 1864
Richmond National Battlefield Park will mark the anniversary of the 5th United States Colored Troops (USCT) voting in the 1864 presidential election with a special event on Saturday, Nov. 2. Titled Election Day 1864: Black Soldiers Vote on the Front Lines, the program will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Fort Harrison Visitor Center, located at 8761 Battlefield Park Road. The event will feature ranger-led tours, living history demonstrations and hands-on educational activities.
Florida A&M Rattlers hold top spot in Week 6 HBCU football media poll
The Florida A&M Rattlers continue to dominate the HBCU football landscape, maintaining their No. 1 ranking in the Week 6 BOXTOROW HBCU Media Poll. With a 3-2 record, the Rattlers received 13 first place votes and 193 points overall, solidifying their position at the top of the rankings.
Best-selling author Dolen Perkins-Valdez headlines ‘Read Up Richmond’
The Richmond Public Library hosts its “Read Up Richmond” event 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13, at the Main Library. The program features best-selling author Dolen Perkins-Valdez in conversation with historian Linda Janet Holmes.
Virginia NAACP names Melanie Campbell as speaker for annual convention
The Virginia NAACP announced that Melanie Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, will be the keynote speaker for the Freedom Fund Gala at its 89th Annual Convention in Williamsburg.
First municipal African burial ground in city gets state recognition
Virginia officials will unveil a state historical marker next week honoring Richmond’s first municipal African cemetery, a site that dates back to 1799.
Wright leads Virginia Union past Winston-Salem State 31-13
Mark Wright led Virginia Union University to a 31-13 victory over Winston-Salem State University on Saturday, Oct. 5, at Hovey Stadium.
‘A Long Arc’ brings 175 Years of Southern photography to VMFA
From sepia-toned Civil War battlefields to vibrant snapshots of modern Southern life, a new exhibition at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts offers a sweeping look at nearly two centuries of photography in the American South.
VUU Panthers dominate Shaw University in Willard Bailey Classic
The Virginia Union University Panthers showcased a commanding performance in the Willard Bailey Classic, overwhelming Shaw University 42-7 on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Willie Lanier Field at Hovey Stadium.
VCU women’s soccer extends unbeaten streak
The Virgnia Commonwealth University Women’s Soccer team extended their unbeaten streak to five games after a 1-1 draw against St. Bonaventure in Atlantic 10 play on Sunday at Sports Backers Stadium. VCU remains undefeated in conference action with a 1-0-3 record.
Virginia State bounces back with 35-18 win over Fayetteville State
After two consecutive losses, Virginia State University (2-2, 1-0 CIAA) returned to the win column with a 35-18 victory over Fayetteville State (2-2, 1-1 CIAA) on Saturday, Sept. 28. The Trojans used a strong offensive performance led by quarterback Romelo Williams and wide receiver Kevin Gayles to secure the conference win.
William “Bill” Lucy, pioneering labor leader, dies at 90
William “Bill” Lucy, a towering figure in the American labor movement and a champion for civil and human rights, died Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, at his home in Washington, D.C., at 90 years old.
Leaders gather for veterans and military affairs discussion
On Oct. 3, leaders from across Virginia’s business, military and government sectors will come together at the Greater Richmond Convention Center for the 2024 Virginia Veterans & Military Affairs Executive Forum and V3 Awards Luncheon. Hosted by the Virginia Chamber Foundation, the event will highlight efforts to strengthen veteran employment and recognize organizations committed to supporting military families.
State Fair of Virginia returns with concerts, agriculture, family fun
The scent of fried dough and fresh-cut hay will fill the air once again as families stroll through rows of food vendors, games and agricultural exhibits. The State Fair of Virginia, a tradition dating back more than 165 years, is back at The Meadow Event Park from Sept. 27 to Oct. 6 with the theme, “Where Home Grown Happens.”
Native tree distribution event held at Mosby Memorial Baptist Church
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Virginia Interfaith Power & Light and Mosby Memorial Baptist Church gave away 200 native trees and shrubs to Richmond residents last Saturday.
Equality Virginia announces Brandon Wolf as keynote speaker
Brandon Wolf, a nationally recognized advocate for gun safety and LGBTQ+ civil rights, will serve as the keynote speaker at Equality Virginia’s Commonwealth Dinner. The event, the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, takes place Saturday, Oct. 5, at Main Street Station.
Virginia Union Panthers host Shaw University Bears in home opener
The Virginia Union University Panthers are preparing to kick off their 2024 home football season against the Shaw University Bears.
Second Presbyterian Church hosts speaker series on environmental justice
Second Presbyterian Church in Richmond will host a speaker series titled, “Rooting in Place: Planting Seeds of Resilience,” focusing on the intersection of environmental care and social justice. The series takes place Sundays from September through October, with events scheduled from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
New Life Outreach Church to host Unshakeable Conference in October
The Unshakeable Conference happens at New Life Outreach Church Oct. 2 through 6. Led by Pastors Carlos and Rosalinda Rivera, this year’s conference centers on a theme drawn from Hebrews 12:28-29, reminding participants that through Christ, they are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, according to the church’s website.
Colonial Downs ends successful season with big plans for spring
Colonial Downs Racetrack concluded its 2024 season on a high note, capping off 27 days of racing. The highlight of the season, Virginia Derby Day, took place on Sept. 7, drawing thousands of racing enthusiasts and families to witness top tier equine competition.
Sports Backers Executive Director Jon Lugbill retires
Jon Lugbill, the founding executive director of Sports Backers, will retire June 30, 2025, after 31 years leading the nonprofit organization. Since its inception in 1993, Lugbill has overseen the growth of Sports Backers into a leading promoter of active living in the Richmond region.
Commanders uniforms rank last in NFL fan survey
A recent study of NFL fan sentiment on social media revealed the Washington Commanders uniforms are the least popular in the league.
VSU Homecoming Parade route back on track
Virginia State University is set to bring back its beloved Homecoming Parade its full route for the 2024 celebration.
First Baptist Church opens registration for basketball, cheering
First Baptist Church is accepting registrations for its Upward Bound basketball league, open to boys and girls in first through sixth grade and its cheerleading league for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Early registration, which ends Nov. 1, is $70 for basketball and $80 for cheerleading. Scholarships are available.
Lasers and music collide at Science Museum’s Dome
Richmond’s night sky is about to get a lot brighter — indoors, that is. This October, the Science Museum of Virginia unveils its latest attraction: a series of laser light shows set to popular music, all projected onto the massive screen of its signature venue, The Dome.
Chesterfield honors local legends with inaugural sports hall of fame induction
Chesterfield County celebrated its rich athletic history Thursday with the inaugural induction ceremony of the Chesterfield Sports Hall of Fame, where 10 local sports legends were honored for their contributions both on and off the field. The event, hosted at the Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education, recognized athletes whose careers have left a lasting mark on the community.
VCU launches program to tackle pharmacy technician shortage
Virginia Commonwealth University is launching a program to train entry level pharmacy technicians, to address severe staffing shortages in pharmacies and hospitals across Virginia and the nation.
Flying Squirrels fall to Altoona Curve in season finale
The Richmond Flying Squirrels dropped their season finale to the Altoona Curve 5-1 last Sunday at Peoples Natural Gas Field in Altoona, Pa.
Virginia Union players earn CIAA honors
Virginia Union University’s Jada Byers, Reginald Vick Jr., and Shamar Graham have earned CIAA Player of the Week honors for their performances in VUU’s football game against Hampton University on Saturday, Sept. 7.
Cristo Rey Richmond High School names new president and CEO
Cristo Rey Richmond High School appointed Charleita M. Richardson as its new president and CEO, effective Nov. 4, the school’s board of directors announced last week.
New Canaan Church to host Live2Lead leadership summit
On Oct. 5, New Canaan International Church will host Live2Lead, a global leadership event organized by author and leadership expert John Maxwell. Dwayne Whitehead and The Whitehead Group will serve as local hosts for this event, which features a lineup of speakers to inspire, educate and equip leaders.
Health districts promote Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week
The Richmond and Henrico health districts are joining the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in observing Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week through Sept. 21.
Run Richmond 16.19 – more than a race
Want to run or walk through history? Run Richmond 16.19 may be the event for you. The third annual race happens this Saturday, Sept. 21, and offers a unique opportunity to explore Richmond’s Black history while staying active.
Sophomore set to preach initial sermon
Arterius G. Rollins, a 15-year-old sophomore at Goochland High School, is preparing for a significant milestone in his spiritual journey.
Concert series continues at Main Street Station
The City’s Department of Public Works kicked off its free “Music at Main” concert series at Main Street Station on Sept. 5 with a performance by Soul Expressions. The series will continue with two more shows Sept. 12 and Sept. 19, running from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Civil rights pioneer Sybil Haydel Morial dies
Sybil Haydel Morial, widow of New Orleans’ first Black mayor and a prominent civil rights activist, died at 91, her family announced last Wednesday.
Chesterfield County to honor 10 sports legends in Hall of Fame
Chesterfield County will induct 10 local sports legends into its inaugural Sports Hall of Fame this week, honoring athletes and coaches who have made significant contributions to the area’s rich athletic history. The ceremony is set for 6 p.m. Thursday at the Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education in Chester.
Partnership for the Future awarded $375,000 grant
Partnership for the Future, a nonprofit organization focused on providing college access and success support to under-resourced high school students, recently received a $375,000 grant from the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation. The grant, which will be distributed over three years, will fund general operating expenses to support PFF’s programs.
JXN Project and Library of Virginia unveil Jackson Ward’s hidden history
The Library of Virginia, in partnership with The JXN Project, has received a $282,975 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to support a new exhibition on the history of Richmond’s Jackson Ward neighborhood.
Virginia State University honored as Fulbright Institutional Leader
Virginia State University has been named a Fulbright Historically Black College and University Institutional Leader for 2024, marking its third consecutive year receiving this recognition from the U.S. Department of State.
Ruth E. Carter exhibition extended at Jamestown Settlement
The special exhibition “Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design” at Jamestown Settlement has been extended through Jan. 5, 2025. The exhibit, which showcases the work of two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter, has drawn significant attention since its debut in May.
Panel discussion at Saint Paul’s Baptist Church
A panel discussion on Project 2025 will be held on 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at The Saint Paul’s Baptist Church, Creighton Campus, 4247 Creighton Road. Jean Boone, publisher of the Richmond Free Press, is among the panelists.
Late surge falls short as Trojans fall to Spartans
The Virginia State University Trojans’ hopes of avenging last year’s loss to Norfolk State University fell short, as the Spartans held on for a 28-23 thriller on their home turf.
Mayoral candidates announce forum and debate schedule
In a joint press release issued this week, the candidates for Richmond’s mayoral race announced a series of upcoming forums, town halls and debates, providing residents with numerous opportunities to hear directly from those vying for the city’s top office.
Panthers’ Byers rushes for 105 yards but Hampton holds on
Virginia Union University running back Jada Byers rushed for 105 yards and two touch- downs, but Hampton University outlasted the Panthers 33-21 last Saturday. Hampton running back Elijah Burris was the difference-maker, breaking loose for 135 yards and two scores to lead the Pirates (1-1) to victory in front of 6,308 fans at Armstrong Stadium. “We played four quarters tonight,” said Hampton Coach Trent Boykin. “We played with a lot of energy and intensity. I was really proud of the way we played on both sides of the ball.” Burris, the second-leading rusher in the Coastal Athletic Association last season, was held to just 43 yards in Hamp- ton’s season opener against Morgan State. But the senior found his stride against Virginia Union (1-1), scoring two fourth- quarter touchdowns to seal the win for the Pirates. VUU quarterback RJ Ro- sales completed 3-of-6 passes for 114 yards and a touchdown, while Shamar Graham recorded a career-high 17 tackles, includ- ing 10 in the first quarter alone, for the Panthers. “We didn’t finish,” said VUU Coach Alvin Parker. “It’s something we teach our guys every day in practice, but today we just didn’t finish the game. You have to play four quarters, and we didn’t accomplish that today.” At halftime, Hampton hon- ored its 1994 and 2004 national championship football teams, both coached by the legendary Joe Taylor. Virginia Union (1-1) will have a bye week next weekend before traveling to Charlotte, N.C., to face Johnson C. Smith University on Sept. 21. Hamp- ton (1-1) will visit Norfolk State on Sept. 14.
