Richmond Free Press May 9-11, 2024 edition

Otieno’s family seeks federal intervention after multiple charges dismissed

By George Copeland Jr.

The family of Irvo Otieno is calling on federal officials to take up the prosecution of those charged with his murder at Central State Hospital last March. The call comes following the dismissal of charges against five people involved in the incident that led to his death.

In a press conference Monday afternoon, Mr. Otieno’s family, alongside lawyers Mark Krudys and Ben Crump via video, criticized the motion filed by Dinwiddie Commonwealth’s Attorney Amanda N. Mann last Friday and approved on Sunday.

They also made an emotional plea for the Department of Justice’s involvement in the case, which focuses on Mr. Otieno’s treatment and death at the age of 28 while in custody at Central State Hospital last year, including seven sheriff’s deputies and three hospital workers pinning him face down on the floor for several minutes.

“It is time to prosecute the murderers of my son,” Caroline Ouko, Mr. Otieno’s mother, said. “And if (Ms. Mann) is not willing to prosecute, the DOJ, where are you?”

The office of U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber, who runs the Department of Justice office for Eastern Virginia, declined to comment on Ms. Ouko’s request.

Ms. Mann requested that charges be dropped against five Henrico County deputies in Mr. Otieno’s death. Of the 10 deputies and Central State Hospital staff initially charged with second degree murder for his death, three defendants remain.

The decision to drop the charges came after Ms. Mann’s efforts

Please turn to A4

Anti-war protests take to the streets, courts after encampment

By George Copeland

For the second Monday in a row, Richmond stirred with activity from anti-war, pro-Palestenian protesters, who marched down the city’s busy streets in what was the latest development since the encampment at Virginia Commonwealth University ended.

A crowd gathered in Monroe Park on Monday afternoon before marching Downtown to the Richmond office of U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine to deliver a letter of grievance.

The letter calls on Sen. Kaine and other elected leaders to demand a ceasefire in the military conflict in Gaza and for American universities and businesses to divest any deals or connections with the Israeli government.

“This fight is not over until Palestenians get the freedom they deserve and the justice they deserve,” said VCU student Sereen Haddad, speaking from the back of a pickup truck, megaphone in one hand and her other arm in a sling due to injuries sustained during the police response to the encampment.

“We will not be silent.”

A statement from Sen. Kaine’s office emphasized his belief that “people have the

right under the First Amendment to express their beliefs on issues that matter to them and they should do so in ways that follow local and federal laws.”

The statement also mentioned his constant dialogue with Virginia residents about the conflict since it began.

“(Sen. Kaine) has publicly and repeatedly called for a deal

School Board’s Dawn Page not running for re-election; board considers training

By Darlene M. Johnson

In a statement sent to the Free Press, the Richmond School Board’s 8th District representative Dawn Page announced that she will not run for re-election.

In the statement, Ms. Page, who began her service on the board in 2016, noted the accomplishments made during her tenure. This included building eight schools, achieving full accreditation and serving as chair and vice chair.

“Even though my time has come to an end, I remain optimistic about the future of RPS and that a new leader will emerge to ensure our kids receive the best education possible,” Ms. Page stated. “While I may be leaving office, my work continues on.”

The general election for the School Board will be held in November.

In addition to Ms. Page’s announcement, it has also been revealed that the School Board is not in compliance with state requirements of annual professional development and training.

Lisa Coons, the state superintendent, notified the School Board in a letter on Wednesday of its noncompliance and requested these requirements to be fulfilled.

The board’s agreement with the Virginia School Board Association (VSBA), called

The Richmond Free Press was recognized with nine awards, including two first place awards, at the annual Virginia Press Association competition in writing, photography, news presentation and advertising.

a memorandum of understanding, requires all board members and Superintendent Jason Kamras to undergo annual professional development and training provided by VSBA, according to the letter from Ms. Coons. The training covers the board’s responsibilities for student and school achievement at troubled schools.

The School Board is risking the loss of some state funding due to its noncompliance with the agreement, but it has an opportunity to rectify their status. If done so in a timely manner, some or all of the board’s at-risk, add-on funding could be restored by the Virginia Board of Education. RPS’ 2024 budget plan includes over $15

The Free Press entered work from 2023 to be judged by members of the Missouri Press Association. Winners were announced last Saturday at the VPA News & Advertising Awards Banquet in Charlottesville. April Coleman, Free Press vice president of production, won first place in the category of professional services excluding medical and healthcare for her ad design for HDH’s 23rd

By Dina Weinstein

Fifty years in the making, the ties of fraternity remain strong within the Eta Xi Chapter of Kappa

monument now graces Shafer Court — a significant location in its own right – with the unveiling marking the 50th anniversary of the Eta Xi Chapter’s founding on Oct. 19, 1974. The

Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Caroline Ouko (left), the mother of 28-year-old Irvo Otieno, listens as her attorney, Mark Krudys, responds to Commonwealth Attorney Amanda Mann’s decision to dismiss charges against five of the eight criminal defendants charged with Mr. Otieno’s murder. Ms. Ouko also is represented by attorney Ben Crump, who spoke virtually at the press conference.

Andre Thompson,

Julian Tripp Hillian

Sereen Haddad, a second-year student at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), addresses a crowd during a protest on Thursday, May 2, outside VCU’s James Branch Cabell Library. She and others shared recollections regarding events on Monday, April 29, when VCU deployed police at a pro-Palestinian protest.

Ms. Johnson

Jud Froelich, VCU

Members of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity witness the unveiling of a monument honoring the Eta Xi chapter’s founding at Virginia Commonwealth University 50 years ago.

It’s not too early to vote

By George Copeland Jr

Early voting has begun across Virginia, with locations open as of Friday, May 3, for Democratic and Republican primary ballots ahead of the primary election Tuesday, June 18.

The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, May 28, and registration can be done at vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation

Richmond residents can cast their votes at the Richmond Office of Elections at 2134 W. Laburnum Ave. until Saturday, June 15, with hours ranging from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 8, and June 15.

Satellite locations for early voting will be available only on two days before Election Day at City Hall at 900 E. Broad St. and Hickory Hill Community Center: 3000 E. Belt Blvd., both on Saturday, June 8, and June 15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Drop boxes for ballots are also available, and are located at the Office of Elections, the Southside Community Services Center at 4100 Hull Street Road, and City Hall. Voters can request an absentee ballot online, in person at the Office of Elections, by fax at (804) 646-7848, or by email at absentee@rva.gov

According to Selna Shi, public relations specialist at the Richmond Office of Elections, election officials predict a low turnout for the primary in Richmond. More information and resources can be found at www.rva.gov/elections/voting

For Henrico County residents looking to cast their votes early, the Henrico Western Government Center at 4305 E. Parham Road and the Eastern Government Center at 3820 Nine Mile Road are now serving as in-person voting locations from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until June 15.

The Varina Library at 1875 New Market Road also will serve as a voting location starting Monday, June 3, and ending Friday, June 14, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All locations also will be open on June 8 and 15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Five mail drop boxes are accessible 24 hours a day, and can be found at the Administration Annex building at the Henrico Western Government Center, the Eastern Government Center, Deep Run Park Recreation Center at 9900 Ridgefield Parkway, the Varina Library and the Tuckahoe Area Library at 1901 Starling Dr.

According to General Registrar Mark J. Coakley, 41 voters voted early on Friday and Monday, 21 Republicans and 20 Democratic voters, and with 39 of those voters using the Western Office. As for mailing, 3,338 Republican ballots and 5,425 Democratic ballots have been mailed out so far. More information and resources can be found at henrico.us/registrar/absentee_voting Chesterfield County voting locations have shifted from the General Registrar’s Office to the Central Library at 7051 Lucy Corr Blvd. and will be open for voting until June 15, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, June 8, and June 15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Early voters who come to the library are encouraged to park near the Cooperative Extension Office and enter through the main door. Signs will be posted directing voters to the large meeting room across from the Cooperative Extension Office. Curbside voting for those with disabilities or age 65 and older is available at the entrance of the Cooperative Extension office. Voters must provide their name and address and show an acceptable form of ID, a complete list of which can be found at www. elections.virginia.gov. More information and resources can be found at www.chesterfield.gov/registrar.

Free community testing for COVID-19 continues

For the week of Saturday, April 27, the city of Richmond and the counties of Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover saw 17 confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19. Two deaths associated with COVID-19 have been reported statewide for the week of Saturday, May 4.

Free community testing for COVID-19 continues

The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:

• Thursday, May 9, 1 to 5 p.m. - Henrico Arms Apartments, 1566 Edgelawn Circle.

• Friday, May 10, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Southside Plaza WIC, 509 E. Southside Plaza.

• Wednesday, May 15, 8 to 10 a.m. - East Henrico Recreation Center, 1440 N. Laburnum Ave.; 2 to 4:30 p.m - St. Luke’s Apartments, 117 Engleside Drive.

RHHD’s Resource Centers are providing free at-home tests for pickup at select locations:

• Creighton Court at 2150 Creighton Road, call 804-3710433.

• Fairfield Court at 2311 N. 25th St., call 804-786-4099.

• Gilpin Court at 436 Calhoun St., call 804-786-1960 .

• Hillside Court at 1615 Glenfield Ave., call 804-230-7740.

• Mosby Court at 1536 Coalter St., call 804-786-0204.

• Southwood Court at 1754 Clarkson Road. Unit #B, call 804-230-2077.

• Whitcomb Court at 2106 Deforrest St., call 804-786-0555. Call the Richmond and Henrico Call Center at (804) 205-3501 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For information on testing sites, or go online at vax.rchd.com.

The Virginia Department of Health also has a list of COVID-19 testing locations around the state at www.vdh.virginia.gov. Want a COVID-19 vaccine?

Those interested can schedule an appointment with RHHD by calling (804) 205-3501. Vaccines.gov also lists nearby pharmacies and clinics that offer the COVID-19 vaccine, and those interested can also text their ZIP code to 438829 or call 1-800-232-0233.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently recommends that children between the ages of 6 months to 4 years old may need multiple doses of the updated vaccines, depending on their COVID-19 vaccine status and whether they had previously received Pfizer and Moderna. Waiting periods for additional vaccines can range from three to eight weeks or four to eight weeks depending on the vaccine dose previously received.

Children between the ages of 5 and 11 years old who are unvaccinated or have received a vaccine before Sept. 12, 2023, should get one updated Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Those age 12 and older who are unvaccinated should get either one updated Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or two doses of the updated Novavax vaccine. People in that age range who received a vaccine before Sept. 12, 2023, should get one updated Pfizer, Moderna or Novavax vaccine.

People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may get additional doses of updated COVID-19 vaccine, and are encouraged to talk with their health care providers about how and when to receive them.

Information compiled by George Copeland Jr.

Cityscape

St. Catherine’s student awarded almost $2M in scholarships

By Darlene M. Johnson

After applying to over 30 colleges and universities, 17-year-old St. Catherine’s School student Ava Holloway was awarded over $1.98 million in scholarships.

Ms. Holloway, who has attended the all-girls private school since kindergarten, received scholarships from Virginia State, Old Dominion and Ohio State universities, among others.

Ms. Holloway’s grandparents have been a “super big support system” for her, taking her to visit colleges and universities when she was younger, she said. Amanda Lynch, a trauma-informed specialist and Ms. Holloway’s mother, also has been one of the senior’s biggest supporters.

“My mom has always been really vocal about wanting me to have a successful life and she has allowed me to go to various STEM programs all over the country when I was younger. (She) kind of just set me up for success, letting me try a bunch of different things,” Ms. Holloway said.

Growing up, Ms. Holloway considered a career in forensic psychology. She became interested in the field because her

mother and grandmother watched marathons of NBC’s “Law & Order” series. The summer before her junior year, she completed two courses in forensic anthropology and criminal investigation as part of a three-week pre-college program at the University of Miami.

Further coursework sparked an interest in biology. As part of a St. Catherine’s School program, she volunteered at a local animal shelter and traveled to Puerto Rico to work with animals. These experiences pushed Ms. Holloway to pursue a career as a veterinarian.

“I’ve always thought that Ava would be some type of doctor since she could talk,” Mrs. Lynch said. “She’s always been very interested in math and science. Those are things that came very natural for her.”

Ms. Holloway’s experiences also helped her decide to attend the University of Miami in the fall after her May 25 graduation. She plans to study marine biology and ecology on a pre-vet track.

Ms. Holloway earned the George W. Jenkins Scholarship for her strong academic standing, financial need and history of overcoming adversity. She said she is

looking forward to making new connections and friendships as well as adapting to a new environment.

Another of Ms. Holloway’s achievements was the creation of Brown Ballerinas for Change after the height of the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. BBFC is a nonprofit organization Ms. Holloway formed with three friends and fellow members of the Central Virginia Dance Academy, where Ms. Holloway has danced since she was 4 years old. BBFC’s goal is to “break the stereotype of ballet being seen as only a white art form,” she said. She hopes to start a chapter of BBFC at the University of Miami.

Anne Wash, Ms. Holloway’s dance instructor at CVDA, is proud to have watched Ms. Holloway grow into a “caring, motivated and determined person” who “shines as someone who is persistent, motivated and thoughtful.” While under Mrs. Wash, Ms. Holloway performed in “The Nutcracker” in several roles.

“I have loved watching Ava grow up into the wonderful person she is today,” Mrs. Wash said. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her as I know she will do amazing things.”

TikTok sues to block law that could ban the platform

By Haleluya Hadero, Michelle Chapman And Barbara Ortutay Associated Press

TikTok and its Chinese parent company are challenging a new American law that would ban the popular video-sharing app in the U.S. unless it’s sold to an approved buyer, saying it unfairly singles out the platform and is an unprecedented attack on free speech.

In its lawsuit, ByteDance says the new law vaguely paints its ownership of TikTok as a national security threat in order to circumvent the First Amendment, despite no evidence that the company poses a threat. It also says the law is so “obviously unconstitutional” that its sponsors are instead portraying it as a way to regulate TikTok’s ownership.

“For the first time in history, Congress has enacted a law that subjects a single, named speech platform to a permanent, nationwide ban, and bars every American from participating in a unique online community with more than 1 billion people worldwide,” ByteDance asserts in the lawsuit filed in a Washington appeals court.

The law, which President Biden signed as part of a larger foreign aid package, marks the first time the U.S. has singled out a social media company for a potential ban, which free speech advocates say is what would be expected from repressive regimes such as those in Iran and China.

The lawsuit is the latest turn in what’s shaping up to be a protracted legal fight over TikTok’s future in the United States — and one that could end up before the Supreme Court. If TikTok loses, it says it will be forced to shut down next year.

The law requires ByteDance to sell the platform to a U.S.-approved buyer within nine months. If a sale is already in progress, the company would get another three months to complete the deal. ByteDance has said it doesn’t plan to sell TikTok. But even if it wanted to divest, the company would need Beijing’s blessing. According to the lawsuit, the Chinese government has “made clear” that it wouldn’t allow

ByteDance to include the algorithm that populates users’ feeds and has been the “key to the success of TikTok in the United States.”

TikTok and ByteDance say the new law leaves them with no choice but to shut down by next Jan. 19 because continuing to operate in the U.S. wouldn’t be commercially, technologically or legally possible. They also say it would be impossible for ByteDance to divest its U.S. TikTok platform as a separate entity from the rest of TikTok, which has 1 billion users worldwide — most of them outside of the United States. A U.S.-only TikTok would operate as an island that’s detached from the rest of the world, the lawsuit argues.

The suit also paints divestment as a technological impossibility, since the law requires all of TikTok’s millions of lines of software code to be wrested from ByteDance so that there would be no “operational relationship” between the Chinese company and the new U.S. app.

The companies argue that they should be protected by the First Amendment’s guarantee of freedom of expression and are seeking a declaratory judgment that it is unconstitutional.

The Justice Department declined to comment on the suit Tuesday. And White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to engage on questions about why the president continues to use TikTok for his political activities, deferring to the campaign.

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, an Illinois Democrat who is the ranking member of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, issued a statement Tuesday defending the new law.

“This is the only way to address the national security threat posed by ByteDance’s ownership of apps like TikTok. Instead of continuing its deceptive tactics, it’s time for ByteDance to start the divestment process,” he said.

ByteDance will first likely ask a court to temporarily block the federal law from taking effect, said Gus Hurwitz, a senior fellow at the University of Pennsylvania’s

Carey Law School who isn’t involved in the case. And the decision whether to grant such a preliminary injunction could decide the case, because its absence, ByteDance would need to sell TikTok before the broader case could be decided, he said. Whether a court will grant such an injunction remains unclear to Hurwitz, largely because it requires balancing important free speech issues against the Biden administration’s claims of harm to national security. “I think the courts will be very deferential to Congress on these issues,” he said.

The fight over TikTok comes amid a broader U.S.-China rivalry, especially in areas such as advanced technologies and data security that are seen as essential to each country’s economic prowess and national security.

U.S. lawmakers from both parties, as well as administration and law enforcement officials, have expressed concerns that Chinese authorities could force ByteDance to hand over U.S. user data or sway public opinion by manipulating the algorithm that populates users’ feeds. Some have also pointed to a Rutgers University study that maintains TikTok content was being amplified or underrepresented based on how it aligns with the Chinese government’s interests — a claim the company disputes.

Opponents of the law argue that Chinese authorities — or any nefarious parties — could easily get information on Americans in other ways, including through commercial data brokers that rent or sell personal information. They say the U.S. government hasn’t provided public evidence that shows TikTok has shared U.S. user information with Chinese authorities or tinkered with its algorithm for China’s benefit.

“Data collection by apps has real consequences for all of our privacy,” said Patrick Toomey, deputy director of the ACLU’s National Security Project. “But banning one social media platform used by millions of people around the world is not the solution. Instead, we need Congress to pass laws that protect our privacy in the first place.”

Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

Julianne Tripp Hillian

Artist Xolani Sivundla paints during ART 180’s Block Party on May 3 on Marshall Street. Mr. Sivundla is from Cape Town, South Africa, and is in a six-month Artist Residency with Art 180. The group brings together young artists with seasoned professionals.

When

our communities do too

As America’s #1 business lender, we’re invested in local economies with over $40 billion in business loans. Our commitment includes providing funding to under-resourced business owners and supporting entrepreneurs with the tools and resources to help them make every move matter.

My teammates work closely with entrepreneurs here in Richmond. We are here to help them start and grow their business, so they can continue to create jobs and keep our community strong.

Victor Branch President, Bank of America Richmond

What would you like the power to do?®

Otieno’s family seeks federal intervention

Continued from A1

to reschedule the order of trials for those charged was refused. The trial order was first set by interim Commonwealth’s Attorney Jonathan P. Bourlier following the resignation of the previous Commonwealth’s Attorney Ann Cabell Baskervill last year.

Ms. Baskervill had previously dropped charges for two Central State Hospital employees.

“The current elected commonwealth’s attorney does not find the order to be sound and competent prosecutorial decision making,” Ms. Mann’s motion reads in part. “The order in which the defendants are tried is of strategic importance to the Commonwealth.”

Based on conversations with Ms. Mann, Mr. Krudys and

Ms. Ouko said that the dismissals seemed to be part of a plan to reorder and refile the charges in what Ms. Mann viewed as a more strategic way.

Given the visual evidence available of Mr. Otieno’s treatment up to his death, including at Henrico County Regional Jail West where he was held before being taken to Central State Hospital, Mr. Otieno’s family and their legal representatives were not convinced these actions were necessary.

“We stated vehemently that we disagreed with it,” Mr. Krudys said.

While the case continues to develop, Mr. Otieno’s death and the nationwide attention it garnered due to the videos of his treatment by deputies and hospital staff already has led to changes in how Virginia handles mental health care.

A series of bills known as “Irvo’s Law” will become law on Saturday, June 1, amending state code on emergency custody, evaluations and temporary detention orders, while also allowing family members or legal guardians to provide support and decision making assistance for loved ones experiencing mental health crises.

A separate civil case led to a $8.5 million settlement between Mr. Otieno’s family, the state, Henrico County and the sheriff’s department, whose deputies helped pin him down. But Ms. Ouko was clear that, regardless of the actions taken by Ms. Mann, they were intent on seeing the charges continue.

“If they think they’re going to get away with it, we are not going to stand on the side and watch them do that. We demand justice and nothing less,” she said.

Anti-war protests take to the streets, courts after encampment

Continued from A1

to release the hostages taken by Hamas and es-

tablish a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement read.

“He has also advocated for more humanitarian assistance into Gaza and that U.S. weapons transfers to Israel prioritize defensive needs (...) rather than weapons that could further escalate the conflict.”

The march was only the latest development in this effort after the encampment was dispersed by a combination of VCU, Virginia State and Richmond police. Organizers of the encampment, which was built on the lawn of the Cabell Library on VCU’s Monroe Park campus, returned to the grounds last Thursday to criticize the college’s response.

Organizers and speakers also shared their new demand for VCU leadership, the resignation or removal of VCU President Michael Rao,

School Board’s Dawn Page not running for re-election; board considers training

Continued from A1

million in at-risk add-on funding from the state, the state’s main funding program for schools with high poverty levels.

Over the past year, School Board members have not been able to agree on a date to complete the training despite repeated efforts by Stephanie Rizzi, board chair and 5th District representative. Although a date was agreed upon at some point last year, one board member was not able to attend due to vow renewals in Las Vegas that same weekend, according to area news reports.

The RPS School Board also discussed the training requirements in a meeting this past Monday, resulting in some initial pushback.

Mariah White, 2nd District representative, did not agree with the idea of a two-day training and explained that her work obligations may interfere. Dr. Shonda Harris-Muhammed, 6th District representative, also questioned why the training was for two days instead of one day. Ms. Rizzi explained that while the training is not usually for two days, the state was specific about their requirements for a two-day training. Ms. White also had concerns about receiving the training from the Council of Great City Schools as opposed to the VSBA. Superintendent Kamras noted that the VSBA was not interested in providing training to the RPS School Board. Board members were vocal about their desire to quickly move forward

to complete the training. Dr. HarrisMuhammed explained that as a team, it would be best to focus on “what needs to happen and not why (the training) didn’t happen.” Cheryl Burke, 7th District representative, agreed that it is time to move things along.

“It’s time that we do pause and reflect, and do better (than) what we’ve already done because we can’t stay where we already are,” Ms. Burke said at the meeting.

Ms. Burke then motioned for Superintendent Kamras and Ms. Rizzi to proceed with planning a two-day training with the Council of Great City Schools. The motion was seconded by Dr. Harris-Muhammed and passed with unanimous support from the rest of the board.

alongside their previous calls to disclose and divest any partnerships or support for Israel. They also condemned VCU’s choice to use police to disperse the gathering.

“I can no longer align myself with an administration that is complicit to genocide, and willing to brutalize students like myself who oppose apartheid and demand divestment,” said Selma Ait-Bella, a student protester. “Shame on you, Michael Rao!”

When reached out for a response, VCU press officials referred to a statement from Dr. Rao the university released last Tuesday after the encampment was removed.

“While our community cherishes the right to peaceful protest, setting up structures on our campus lawn violated our policy,” Dr. Rao stated. “I deeply appreciate those who peacefully expressed their views and the efforts of our staff during this time.”

Free Press wins 9 awards for VPA competition

Continued from A1

Afro-Puerto Rican band Kadencia, the displacement of former Creighton Court residents and Sgt. Maj. Keith L. Craig’s journey with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Second place awards went to:

• Staff photographer Sandra Sellars for breaking news photography

• Ms. Johnson for sports writing portfolio

• Ms. Coleman for education, church and organization ad designs

• Jeremy M. Lazarus for health, science and environmental writing Third place awards went to:

• Mr. Lazarus for education writing

• Ms. Sellars, Mr. Lazarus, Regina H. Boone, George Copeland Jr., Bonnie Newman Davis and Debora Timms for general news writing

• Freelance photographer James Haskins for sports news photo

Monument at Shafer Court honors Eta Xi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi

Continued from A1

navigated a VCU environment that was far from the proudly diverse urban campus it is today.

“Black students stuck together because there were so few of us,” Eta Xi Founder John Lanier said in a video interview compiled by fraternity members.

Willie A. Munford recalled white fraternity brothers spitting in his afro from a second-floor dorm room – and how he sought out his brothers to confront the assailants. Decades later, “we’re still tight,” he said in the video.

The Eta Xi founders were trailblazers beyond campus, too. Kappa Alpha Psi dates to 1911 at the University of Indiana, and the VCU chapter would be the first in Virginia at a state university not designated as a historically Black institution.

History wasn’t necessarily on the founders’ minds, though: Known as the Nine Midnight Wanderers, they couldn’t meet until that late hour because they held afternoon and evening jobs after class to support themselves.

At the time, the Civil Rights and Black Power movements were pressing for equal treatment, with college campuses among the cultural cauldrons of the era. Frederick Merritt II, a Eta Xi brother who earned an information systems degree in 2001 and an MBA in 2003, said the monument acknowledged the courage of the founders to establish the chapter.

“It’s made a lasting impact on so many that have come after us, and we stand on the backs of those brothers that came before us,” said Mr.

Merritt, who lives in Atlanta and is founder and CEO of Synergy Tech Consulting. “Our forever home is VCU, and so we wanted something to memorialize that.”

Mr. Merritt served as the memorial committee chair, and numerous alumni brothers helped coordinate the project. He noted the appropriateness of the location, too.

“Shafer Court is where we would have our mini block shows, step shows, new member presentation shows – all right there,” he said. “And that’s where the brothers would gather as a meeting place.”

Much as members still call on each other for friendship and networking, they answered the call for the monument – and for VCU: Uniting far-flung brothers, a fundraising effort generated more than $100,000 to create the monument, support the fraternity and contribute $50,000 to provide scholarships and support campus organizations.

Though Alexander Brown later transferred to Old Dominion University, he was a “line brother” with Mr. Merritt at VCU. Mr. Brown knew about Black fraternities from growing up within walking distance of Virginia State University, and the Eta Xi experience at VCU created camaraderie, block show memories and strong bonds that persist.

Mr. Brown, who lives in Washington, D.C., and owns product management company Monroe Street Management, served as communications chair for the fraternity’s reunion weekend, producing a magazine and newsletters that captured the past and present impact of the chapter.

“We had an amazing community. We had an amazing Divine Nine,” Mr. Brown said of his VCU experience, referring to the nine traditional Black fraternities and sororities that each have origin stories framed by both duress and a commitment to community action and kinship.

Clifton Porter II, the Eta Xi’s 50th Anniversary Committee Chair, emphasizes how those roots were fragile before they ran deep.

“I like to remind folks that VCU obviously was a very different place and a less diverse university in 1974 than what it is today,” he said. “We had nine young men, young undergraduate college students, that made a decision that they wanted to create an environment of brotherhood and support to help get through and matriculate, get their degrees and get on with life.”

Mr. Porter earned his undergraduate degree in health care management at VCU in 1989 and now serves as senior vice president of government relations for the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living. His era on campus was a bridge of sorts between generations whose experiences collectively tell a story about the Eta Xi Chapter and VCU.

“We wanted to pay tribute to the progress that’s been made at the university,” Mr. Porter said of the monument, “and more importantly, pay tribute to those nine young men that took that step 50 years ago to make it a much more welcoming place.”

And for the brothers of Eta Xi, that place has been a formative experience, Mr. Merritt added.

“It’s important to pay homage to all the brothers that have paved the way, because in one way or another, Eta Xi has impacted their life,” he said. “I think it’s important to recognize the past, the adversity that all those that came before us experienced, and commemorate their efforts. I’m sure that they did not really envision how big Eta Xi would get.”

This story was originally published by VCU News.

Julianne Tripp Hillian

Isabella Cofield (wearing glasses), a second-year student at Virginia Commonwealth University, gathers with others Thursday, May 2, outside VCU’s James Branch Cabell Library. During the gathering, the crowd chanted, “The people united will never be defeated,” and “Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest.”

Jud Froelich, VCU

Celebrating culture

Photos by Julianne Tripp Hillian

Soloist Angel Zhu performs “Spirited Away” at the event.

Yamang Kultura Folkloric Dance

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Richmond Free Press

May 9-11, 2024

Remembering a year of turmoil — 1968

The new guy

In this edition of the Richmond Free Press I introduce a new managing editor who I think inaugurates an exciting new era for this publication and for its readers in Metropolitan Richmond, the Old Dominion and beyond.

His name is Craig Belcher. He is a Richmond native with extensive experience editing and writing for news and arts publications in Central Virginia. Craig received a bachelor’s in mass communications Virginia Commonwealth University in 1996.

He began his journalistic career as editor of the weekly Caroline Progress in Caroline County.

He later served as the online editor for Style Weekly.

For the past six years Craig was the arts and entertainment editor for Richmond Magazine, where he received awards from the Virginia Press Association for writing and editing.

We welcome Craig’s energy and skill. And you, our valued readers, are encouraged to communicate with him your ideas and opinions about issues that affect our lives.

Jean Patterson Boone Publisher

The year of 1968 remains one of the most historic turning points in history. This single year was marked by historic achievements, assassinations and protests over a much-hated war.

our nation if Mr. Sirhan was not motivated by the Israeli/Palestinian conflict.

It was a year which literally transformed the future of a nation. While young white students protested the Vietnam War, frustrated Black people protested racism and poverty at home. The assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the balcony of the Lorraine Hotel in Memphis, Tenn., unleashed a wave of violence, looting and arson in cities across the U.S. Two months later, on the night of the California primary, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy was leaving the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles when he was shot by a young Jordanian immigrant Sirhan Sirhan. Born in Jerusalem, Mr. Sirhan later said he assassinated Sen. Kennedy out of concern for the Palestinian cause and felt betrayed by the senator’s support for Israel during the Six-Day War in 1967.

After Sen. Kennedy’s victory in the California primary, he was in reach of securing the Democratic presidential nomination.

One has to wonder what would have happened to the direction of

Whether a person is a supporter of Israel or pro-Palestinian, the conflict between the two sides has a long and complex history of impacting our political landscape. Universities have always been breeding grounds for political activism. Protests against the war in Gaza have now spread through American college campuses where students are now being

arrested, suspended and setting up encampments in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

On Oct. 7, Hamas and several other Palestinian militant groups launched a surprise attack into southern Israel resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and over 200 hostages in Israel. Hamas said its attack was in response to the continued Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories. The Israeli/ Palestinian conflict will never be seen as a win-win scenario abroad or here in the U.S.

The current protests may not ever reach the magnitude of the student protests of the 1960s against the Vietnam War or the 1980s against South African apartheid, but the level has risen to where they can impact the results of the 2024 U.S. presidential election — especially against

the Biden campaign. President Biden has a problem now with Arab-American voters which was part of his winning coalition in 2020. If they decide to stay home, it is still a “protest vote” which supports the prospects of a Trump election.

The president has been steadfast in his support for Israel, but has repeatedly denounced the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

President Biden’s embrace of Israel is seen by some as a political liability. Others feel the president needs to be harder on Israel.

President Biden has received both pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian backlash in recent weeks. It exemplifies the no-win reality leaders often face in politics.

The student-led protests on college campuses is not only about the long held dispute over an independent Palestinian state, it has now turned into a fight over the humanitarian crisis for Palestinian civilians living in Gaza. The biggest losers in this struggle are the civilians, Israeli and Palestinian. Hamas, the de facto governing authority of the Gaza Strip has used Palestinian civilians as human shields in conflicts with Israel since 2007.

Vance jumps from Trump critic to maybe VP

Republican Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio has begun to remind me of an old saying about Chicago weather: If you don’t like it, just wait a few minutes.

The same could be said—and some people do say it—about Sen. Vance’s big flip-flop from Trump critic to the reputed short list of possible Trump running mates.

When Sen. Vance arrived in the Senate last year, his fame preceded him along with a tantalizing dose of controversy.

The fame followed the popularity of his bestselling autobiography, “Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis,” as a sort of decoder for those of us who were struggling to understand Mr. Trump’s popularity among mostly white working-class voters in the 2016 presidential race.

Adding to the intrigue, Sen. Vance had built a reputation as a self-described “Never Trump guy” who mocked Donald Trump in interviews and since-deleted tweets calling Mr. Trump “loathsome,” an “idiot,” “noxious,” reprehensible and, my personal favorite, “cultural heroin.”

But all of that changed just 43 days before the 2022 Republican primary in Ohio, according to The New York Times, when a tweet from Donald Trump Jr., son of the former president, proclaimed, “Enough with the lies being told about this guy.”

Sen. Vance had turned from foe to a fan of the elder Trump, Don Jr. assured his audience as Sen. Vance entered Ohio’s crowded field of candidates in the race to replace retiring Republican Sen. Rob Portman. Sen. Vance also said he wasn’t worried about his chances to score the former president’s

support. A month later, sure enough, the elder Trump confirmed his son’s sentiments by awarding his coveted endorsement to Sen. Vance, although not without some gratuitous barbs attached.

“J.D. is kissing my ass he wants my support so much,” the former president told a rally in Youngstown—while Sen. Vance, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq, stood by.

In an interview with NBC News, Sen. Vance said at the time that while he believes Mr. Trump “gets a certain kick out of people kissing his ass,” he also thinks that the former president views those who do as “weak.”

By then, Team Vance was deleting his old negative tweets about the former president.

I had an additional reason to be interested in Sen. Vance and his book: He was born and raised mostly in Middletown, Ohio, the same economically troubled factory town where I grew up in more prosperous times a few decades earlier than Sen. Vance. His rags-toriches Republican saga—and the politics-free movie it spawned

Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza has resulted in the killing of more than 33,000 Palestinians and injuring more than 75,000 others. Some 1.7 million Palestinians, nearly 75% of the population, are estimated to be internally displaced and are vulnerable to hunger and disease. For Israeli civilians, the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre was labeled the bloodiest day in Israel’s history and the deadliest for Jews since the Holocaust. Many of the 200 hostages still remain captive. Any nation, including Israel, has the right to defend themselves. But at what point does the oppressed become the oppressor? The human dignity of an innocent civilian should always be defended. This is true if the person is American, Israeli or Palestinian. When you take away the basic rights of human beings because of hatred, it simply perpetuates more hatred and mistrust. The depth of active hostility shown by Sirhan Sirhan in 1968 is still alive in 2024.

starring Glenn Close and Amy Adams—took me on a mental journey back to my hometown, as seen from a side of town that had a lot fewer Black folks than my side.

The most memorable character, Sen. Vance’s grandmother “Mamaw,” well played by Close, reminded me of my own wise grandmother. But I also was struck by how fortunate I felt to have been born and raised in a two-parent household that, for all the struggles we faced, was not burdened by the problems of drugs and family dysfunction that plagued Sen. Vance’s upbringing.

Sen. Vance credits Mamaw with pushing him to put forth the effort that would improbably take him to a Yale law degree, service in the Marines and a lucrative career in corporate law, venture capital and now politics.

What to make of Sen. Vance now that he’s become among the most enthusiastic embracers of Trumpism? Why should anyone believe Sen. Vance when he said of Mr. Trump, “I think that he respects people who can defend themselves, who have their own ideas.”

No matter, I suppose, if you’re gunning to be vice president. “Having your own ideas” isn’t really in the job description.

It’s easy to see why Mr. Trump should consider Sen. Vance to be a strong contender. It’s quite a bit harder to see what the self-made Sen. Vance finds appealing in Mr. Trump, other than a means to a political end.

The writer is a columnist for the Chicago Tribune.

Mr. Marshall is the founder of the faith-based organization,The Reconciled Body, and author of “God Bless Our Divided America.”

David W. Marshall

Clarence Page

Wake up, Black voters!

Don’t let Trump’s lies fool you

The fact that exit polls showed that Donald Trump received 9% of the Black vote in 2016, the highest number since George Bush in 2000, and then won 12% in the presidential race in 2020 should be a cause for concern.

the high stakes in this contest to determine whether Donald Trump is elected again.

Moreover, some recent polls surprisingly show that if the presidential election was held today, 17% of Black voters say they would vote for Mr. Trump, and even more troubling, 20% say they would vote for someone other than either Mr. Trump or President Biden. Black voters have been the largest and most loyal voting bloc for Democrats for years, but there has been a shift in the number of Black voters who consider themselves Democrats.

That trend could be explained partially by a number of younger Black voters with no direct experience with the civil rights movement. They have scant knowledge and no direct personal memory. They feel disappointed with Democrats and the Biden administration and seem willing to consider Mr. Trump despite his blatant and toxic racial baggage.

This disconnection with the Democratic Party is felt most strongly with some young Black males, many in critical battleground states like Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia, Arizona, Pennsylvania and North Carolina, where Democrats need every vote. Most of these states have large concentrations of Black voters in their urban areas.This is a special issue in potentially close races like this one because the Electoral College gives Republicans a massive advantage in federal elections. This system allows them to govern with a minority of the popular vote.

However, there also is data that shows that the Democratic candidate for president over the last five presidential elections since 2000 has averaged 90% of the Black vote with an average of only 8% for the GOP candidate. In addition, the overwhelming concern of most Black voters continues to be race and racism with a particular aversion to the reprehensible and duplicitous Mr. Trump who has shown repeatedly that he is an instigator of racial hate. Any relationship he has with Black voters has been deceptive and disingenuous.

Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of Black voters cannot be bamboozled or deceived because we know the record of his stance on health care with his recent attacks on Obamacare, opposition to greater diversity in the workplace and efforts to restrict our voting rights as

Donald M. Suggs

well as his racist, conspiracist “birther campaign” that sought to undermine the then-President Obama.

Still, we can’t simply ignore the reports that Mr. Trump is possibly making inroads with Black voters while President Biden is losing support from us. Granted polls have been shown not to be reliable predictors of what Black voters will do. Actually, our biggest worry should probably be third-party voting (third party presidential candidates have no chance of winning. This is a binary election and only a Democrat or Republican can win) and potential voter apathy, despite

Clay Cane, a Sirius XM radio host rightly said that the 2024 presidential election is not just a choice between the lesser of two evils, but this is an election to see if we can stop Mr. Trump and his pernicious plans to institute a future dictatorship to carry out his vile policies. A Trump victory would be a grave threat to the well-being of Black Americans for certain.

In any case, the Democratic party must recognize the seriousness of the disenchantment of many Black voters who don’t feel motivated to make it to the polls and campaign more directly and intentionally in our community. Furthermore, we ourselves must make an unprecedented and determined push to get to the polls in greater numbers to help stop this monstrous man and his MAGA minions from regaining control of the White House.

Donald M. Suggs is the publisher and owner of The St. Louis American

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF PETITION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY FOR REVISION OF A RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE, DESIGNATED RIDER CCR, FOR THE RATE YEAR COMMENCING DECEMBER 1, 2024 CASE NO. PUR-2024-00029

March 5, 2024, pursuant to § 56-585.1

with

rate adjustment clause, designated Rider CCR, for the recovery of costs incurred to comply with the requirements of Virginia

On October 26, 2021, by its Order Approving Rate Adjustment Clause in Case No. PUR 2021-00045 (“2021 Order”), the Commission approved the Company’s request for approval of Rider CCR, for the recovery of costs associated with certain environmental projects involving CCR removal (collectively, “Projects”) at the Company’s Bremo Power Energy Center (collectively, the “Power Stations”). On October 16, 2023, by its Final Order in Case No. PUR-2023-00022 (“2023 Rider CCR proceeding”), the Commission its next Rider CCR application on or after February 28, 2024.”

of the status of the Projects at the Power Stations, and to provide the proposed cost allocation, rate design, and accounting treatment for service rendered during a proposed rate year commencing December 1, 2024, and extending through November 30, 2025 (“Rate Year”), as related to proposed Rider CCR.

Rate Year. The Company states that the two components of the revenue requirement are the Projected Cost Recovery Factor and the Actual Cost True-Up Factor. The Company requests a Projected Cost Recovery Factor revenue requirement of $220,660,684, and an Actual Cost True Up Factor revenue requirement of $(117,667,009). Thus, the Company proposes a total revenue requirement requested for recovery in this Rider CCR proceeding for the Rate Year of $102,993,674.

Dominion asserts that, consistent with the Company’s 2023 Rider CCR proceeding, the Company continues to allocate Rider CCR costs on an energy basis using a Factor 3 non-bypassable allocation methodology, as approved by the Commission in the 2021 Order.

If the revised Rider CCR for the Rate Year is approved, the impact on customer bills would depend on the customer’s rate schedule and usage. According to Dominion, implementation of its revised Rider CCR on December 1, 2024, would by approximately $1.20.

The details of these and other proposals are set forth in the Company’s Petition. Interested persons are encouraged to review the Company’s Petition, testimony and supporting exhibits for the details of these proposals.

TAKE NOTICE that the Commission may apportion revenues among customer Company’s Petition and supporting documents.

The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding that, among other things, scheduled a public hearing on Dominion’s Petition. On August 15, 2024, at 10 a.m., the Hearing Examiner will hold a telephonic portion of the hearing, for the purpose of receiving the testimony of public witnesses. On or before August 8, Commission (a) your name, and (b) the telephone number that you wish the Commission to call during the hearing to receive your testimony. This information may be provided at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting; (ii) by completing and emailing the PDF version of this form to SCCInfo@scc.virginia.gov; or (iii) by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting

On August 15, 2024, at 10 a.m., or at the conclusion of the public witness located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, the service on parties to this proceeding.

Electronic copies of the public version of the Petition may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company: Elaine S. Ryan, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or eryan@mcguirewoods.com from the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information

On or before August 8, 2024, any interested person may submit comments on the Petition electronically by following the instructions on the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/casecomments/Submit-Public-Comments. Those unable, as a P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. All comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2024-00029.

On or before June 14, 2024, any person or entity wishing to participate as a of the Commission at: . Those unable, as a practical matter, include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel, if available. A copy of the notice of participation as a respondent also must be sent to counsel for the Company. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure (“Rules of Practice”), any notice of participation shall set forth: Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel,

Official White House photo

Donald Trump and rapper Kanye West meet in the White House in October 2018.

Many fathers and sons have made their way to NBA rosters, including these with area/state ties.

Terry and Ed Davis: Terry, among Virginia Union University’s all-time greats, played in NBA 1989 to 2001. Ed, who helped North Carolina to an NCAA crown, was in the NBA from 2010 to 2022.

Gerald Henderson and Gerald Jr: Gerald Sr. used a brilliant career at VCU as a stepping stone to an NBA career from 1979 to 1992, with three championships. Gerald Jr., after playing at Duke, was in the NBA from 2009 to 2017.

Rolando and Jeremy Lamb: This is a bit of a stretch but worthy of the list.

Rolando starred for VCU and was Seattle’s third round pick (56th overall) in 1985, but never played in the NBA. His son Jeremy, was Houston’s first-round pick in 2012 and played in the league until 2022.

Dell Curry and sons Steph and Seth: Out of Virginia Tech, Dell played in the NBA 1986 to 2002. Steph is with the Golden State Warriors while Seth (Liberty University) plays for Charlotte.

The NBA is proud of its second-generation, father-son combinations, with Jalen and Rick Brunson the most recent shining example. Jalen averaged 36 points in leading the New York Knicks past Philadelphia

Stories by Fred Jeter

in the NBA East playoffs. Brunson, a southpaw guard, like his dad was, tallied scores of 41, 24, 39, 47, 40 and, in Game 6, 41 more with 14 coming in the decisive fourth quarter. He also dished 12 assists.

All the while, Rick Brunson was on the Knicks’ bench as an assistant coach. Rick Brunson played nine seasons in the NBA, including two stints with the Knicks.

In eliminating the Sixers, the Knicks advanced to the second round of the playoffs against Indiana.

Brunson had three games against Philly with at least 35 points and 10 assists. The only other player to do so in an NBA series was Oscar Robertson, 51 years ago.

In scoring more than 40 points in each of the last three games, Brunson became the first Knick to do so since Bernard King 40 years ago.

The lefty’s trophy case is well stocked.

Both in 2016 and ’18 he led Villanova to the NCAA title. After spending his first four NBA seasons with Dallas, he was traded to New York on July 12, 2022. He signed a four-year pact for $104 million.

It was something of a package deal.

On June 2, 2022, father Rick signed to become a Knicks’ assistant (under Tom Thibodeau) after spending the previous

Davian Burke specializes in takeoffs and landings and is almost always right on time. He ranks with the state’s top hurdlers even though he attends a high school – Banner Christian in Chesterfield – far removed from local sports’ neon lights.

Track is an equal opportunity sport. The stopwatch and tape measure don’t know, or care, if you attend the smallest or largest school.

This month, Burke’s time of 38.16 for the 300-meter hurdles was tops in Virginia (counting public and private) and his 14.03 for the 110 highs best in the Richmond area.

Last weekend at the Dogwood Festival at the University of Virginia, Burke was third in the 110m hurdles out of 82 entries in 14.54, and third in the 300m hurdles out of 68 in 38.36.

So why choose the somewhat dangerous hurdles, where skinned shins and tumbles are common?

“When I began running track (for East End Lightning), the coaches didn’t think I was fast enough to win the 100 or 200, so I got into the hurdles instead.

“There are less people running them (than flat sprints) and it offered a better opportunity to compete in college.”

three seasons as a coach at a New Jersey High School. Prior to that, he worked as the director of basketball operations at the University of Virginia.

Jalen averaged 24 points in his first season at Madison Square Garden and picked it up to 29 per game this go-round, earning All-Star status for the first time.

Now there’s one everyone is waiting for:

A possible future father-son act involving Los Angeles Lakers icon LeBron James and his eldest son, Bronny.

The 6-foot-4, 210-pound Bronny is one of 78 invited to participate in the NBA Combine May 12-19 in Chicago. He has also entered his name in the NBA Draft, set for June 26-29 in Brooklyn.

At the same time, Bronny also put his name in the NCAA transfer portal and may relocate to another school for the 2024-25 season.

As a University of Southern California freshman this past season, the 19-year-old averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists.

LeBron, 39, has adamantly stated he wants to play in the NBA with Bronny before retiring. James’ youngest son, 6-foot-6 Bryce, will be a 16-year-old junior this coming season at Sierra Canyon High in Los Angeles.

“Davian isn’t the one with the most foot speed, but he is very technical and makes very few mistakes,” Coach Fuller said. “He rarely hits a hurdle.”

Banner’s nickname is The Wolverines but Burke is more realistically The Wolverine (singular) at major meets.

Competing in Division II of the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association (VISAA), Burke has owned the finish line.

As a junior and senior, he won the VISAA indoor 55-meter hurdles. Outdoors, he is looking to three-peat this spring as the state champ in the 110’s and 300s.

Before enrolling at Banner, he attended Richmond Prep Charter School in Richmond’s Museum District. His decision to attend Banner

Mission accomplished. As the 6-foot-2, 170pound, 17-year-old nears the end of his high school career, he has already signed a scholarship offer to continue hurdling at NCAA Division I George Mason University. The son of David and Elnetta Burke of Eastern Henrico plans to continue the 110 highs at GMU while adding the 400 intermediates in college. Burke is on the fast track to success not only for hurdles, but academically as well. He carries about a 4.3 GPA and is in contention for Banner’s valedictorian award later this spring. He has designs of majoring in mechanical engineering.

was based more on academics and a Christian atmosphere than athletics.

The Courthouse Road school has just 40 or so students from ninth grade up and has no oncampus track, and not even a single hurdle.

In a sense, Burke is a one-man varsity team.

“We have some younger students who compete more on a middle school or JV level, but no one like Davian,” said Athletic Director Zach Coble.

The less experienced runners train at Chesterfield Training Center while Burke travels to

Banner’s basketball team wishes he had had time for hoops. He could dunk by the time he was 14 and starred for the Wolverines before opting for track and books.

“Davian was a beast on the basketball floor,’ Coyle said. “I can’t tell you how many times our basketball coach has asked about him coming back.”

Burke left hoops behind to concentrate on leaping over fences. No matter how crowded a track meet is, he’s easy to spot. Just look for the first to the finish line and the only one wearing a Wolverines jersey.

Nowadays, the NFL seems to have overlooked HBCU athletes. None were selected in the most recent draft and just one was called in the past three years. Current NFL rosters only average about one HBCU player per team.

But that wasn’t always the case. From the middle 1970s into the ’80s, Virginia Union University and Virginia State University standouts were well known around the NFL.

VUU’s Herb Scott was a mainstay on the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive line while VSU’s Larry Brooks was a force on the Los Angeles Rams defensive front four.

As a 13th round pick, Scott became a three-time Pro Bowl and two-time All-Pro selection for Coach Tom Landry’s Cowboys from 1975 to 1984. Scott hailed from Virginia Beach and was coached at VUU by Willard Bailey.

Picked in the 14th round, Larry Brooks was a five-time Pro Bowl and two-time All-Pro selection between 1972 and 1982. Coming from Prince George, Brooks starred at VSU under Coach Walt Lovett.

Other VUU luminaries reaching the NFL in that general timeframe were defensive back Tony Leonard (1976-79 with San Francisco), receiver Malcolm Barnwell (1981-85 with Oakland) and lineman Cornelius Johnson (1968-73 with Baltimore).

VSU was represented in the NFL by linemen Jim Mitchell (1970-77, Detroit) and Ron Davis (1973, San Francisco).

VUU’s most recent draftee was defensive back Keith Hunter by Dallas in ‘02 while VSU’s most recent was running back Trenton Cannon in 2018.

According to Pro Football Reference, 15 VUU Panthers have played in the NFL.

In addition to those mentioned above, they are Roger Anderson (1964-68), James Atkins (2003-04), Carl Bland (1984-90),

Hezekiah Braxton (1981-85), Mike Brim (1988-95), Marlion Jackson (2006), Bob Jones (1973-76), Irvin Mallory (1971), Bobby Phillips (1995) and Adrian Wright (1987).

For VSU the list includes James Brown 1993-00), Rufus Crawford (1978), Kelvin Kinney (1997-98), Leo Miles (1953) and Ben Whaley (1949).

There’s no secret why the HBCU to NFL conveyor belt stalled. By the mid ’70s, Black standouts around the nation began choosing the larger, more affluent majority white schools over HBCUs.

Deion Sanders hoped to change that momentum in his three seasons at Jackson State but was unable to move the needle before leaving for Colorado.

So many of the NFL’s alltime greats were the product of HBCU’s but that was mostly decades ago.

A total of 35 HBCU alumni, from 17 schools, are now in the NFL Hall of Fame. That includes second all-time rusher Walter Payton (Jackson State) and all-time receiver Jerry Rice (Mississippi Valley).

There are four Hall of Famers each from Grambling, Jackson State and Morgan State (featuring Richmonder Willie Lanier).

The most recent was Michael Strahan, the NFL’s all-time sack leader out of Texas Southern in 2014.

Perhaps the most HBCU-friendly NFL team of all time was the 1969 Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. There were some 15 HBCU players on the Chiefs’ roster (including Lanier) when they defeated Minnesota for the title.

This past Super Bowl, Kansas City won with one HBCU alumnus, cornerback Joshua Williams from Fayetteville State. Also safety Bryan Cook attended Howard before transferring to Cincinnati.

The coaching carousel continues at Hampton University. Trent Boykin has been named interim head football coach at HU, succeeding Robert Prunty.

Boykin served as the Pirates’ running backs and special teams coach since 2020 under Coach Prunty.

He was previously the head coach at Lane College, Tenn., and an assistant at Akron, Boston College, Ball State and his alma mater, Youngstown State. As a Youngstown football standout, Coach Boykin caught 150 passes as a wide receiver for 1,950 yards. Coach Prunty, at HU since 2018, finished with a 26-29 record that include 4-7 and 5-6 marks his final two seasons in the Coastal Athletic Association.

HU football will open Aug. 31 at home against Morgan State. Then the Pirates will play host to Virginia Union on Sept. 7 and travel to Norfolk State on Sept. 14.

Other in-state games are at William & Mary on Sept.

sharpen his techniques at Varina High under Coach Accaiya Evans (of The Speed Team) and Huguenot High under Coach Kyle Fuller (of Central Virginia Track Club).

Larry Brooks Davian Burke, the state’s top hurdler, attends a small private school with no track.

Jalen and Rick Brunson

Personality: Paula McCapes

Spotlight on board chair of Underground Kitchen-Community First

Philanthropy runs in the family for Paula McCapes.

“The people that I come from, it’s all about family and community,” Mrs. McCapes said. “When I was very, very young, I had grandparents that lived in a community (where) everyone had their strength in their niche.”

Mrs. McCapes recalled her grandfather growing fruits and vegetables. One of his neighbors raised chickens, another reared pigs and another could sew.

This desire to help included Mrs. McCapes’ mother, who would give people a place to go for the holidays when they had nowhere else. For about a year in the 1970s, Mrs. McCapes’ family also hosted a Vietnamese family at the end of the Vietnam War.

“It was always about helping. It wasn’t ‘how much does that cost,’ (or) ‘what is in it for me?’” Being an active community member and part of numerous organizations does have its challenges, but this drives Mrs. McCapes.

“I’m not afraid of the work. I’m not afraid of the challenge. I think it keeps you aware,” Mrs. McCapes said. For Mrs. McCapes, being successful or at least “doing the best you can possibly do” entails “reading, absorbing, listening (and) thinking outside the box.” She enjoys researching and taking “deep dives” into the tough questions. With this knowledge, she can dig into that information to pass on to others. This includes

her fellow board members at the Underground KitchenCommunity First.

One of the proudest moments Mrs. McCapes had with UGK CF happened after the pandemic hit. During this difficult time, the organization was able to get resources, work with other groups and individuals and ensure an underserved community still received “hot, high-end, delicious, quality food.” UGK- CF, which was created in response to the pandemic, has continued to thrive.

Mrs. McCapes continues to help the Greater Richmond area and wants the community to remember her for caring about making change and being “imperfectly authentic.”

“I’m as broken as anybody else. I’ve got tape and glue, scratches and dents and I embrace all that,” Mrs. McCapes said. “I wouldn’t have it any other way because it means I’m living.”

Meet board chair of Underground Kitchen-Community First and this week’s Personality, Paula McCapes: Volunteer position: Board chair of Underground Kitchen - Community First.

Occupation: Public relations and marketing.

Where I live now: Petersburg.

Education: Bachelor’s Virginia Commonwealth University;VCU Center for Corporate Education – SHRM Certification; Virginia State University – graduate coursework in education technologies.

Family: Married, one son.

UGK-CF is: UGK-CF offers USDA approved chef-made meals to the Greater Richmond community. Prioritizing underserved individuals, we strive to tackle food insecurity and health disparities while providing daily fresh nutritious meals.

Mission: UGK-CF supports food insecure children, families, and seniors through community-based feeding and educational programs; providing a consistent source of nutritious and healthy, chef-made meals to the food insecure who live in underserved communities as well as those who find themselves in food insecure situations due to environmental or social events.

UGK-CF is attentive to the diversity within our communities, taking into account the needs presented by different cultures, dietary restrictions, health concerns, environmental limitations and food preferences. We push for positive health outcomes, while fighting against heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

UGK-CF, its culinary team and staff are dedicated to serving all groups within the community and embracing diversity; promoting chefs and industry workers of color, women and the LGBTQ+ community who most often are underrepresented in the culinary world.

When and why founded: UGK-CF is a 501(c)(3) organization established in March 2020 in direct response to the pandemic when The Underground Kitchen, a roving experiential dining company, was forced to close.

Founders: Micheal Sparks and Nancy Koide.

I initially got involved with UGK-CF: Approximately 10 years ago with UGK. UGKCF – since its inception.

When elected board chair: February 2024.

Why UGK-CF is meaningful to me: The selfless dedication of Micheal Sparks is the inspiration. His steadfast desire to bring his talents to the table to better lives is a bit of sunshine

he is committed to share. Those of a like mind are drawn to his philanthropic mission, as one can find a fit to apply their individual strengths.

No. 1 goal and strategy as board chair: Strategically identifying and cultivating potential partners supporting various focus areas of our mission.

Biggest challenge: As with most nonprofit organizations - augmenting sustainable funding and sourcing partners.

No. 1 joy I have witnessed through working with UGKCF: Consistent growth reaching more and more community members with healthy foods and offering experiential learning opportunities.

Ways to get involved with UGK-CF: Visit our website to learn more about our programs and join our newsletter to be notified of volunteer opportunities. Additionally, you can donate to our cause.

Upcoming events: This Juneteenth, UGK-CF is hosting the inaugural UGK-CF Jubilee, a fundraising event bringing together multiple organizations and individuals across the Richmond community to contribute to our cause.

How I start the day: My day starts the evening before. One half-hour to an hour of listening to music, going over what my goals are for the next day. When I wake, I am focused, ready and prepared.

The three words that best describe me: Creative, com-

passionate, loyal.

Best late-night snack: Smoked almonds.

My dream dinner guest would be: Neil de Grasse Tyson. — His intelligence is off the charts, his humor is welcomed, and his ability to converse with all manner of folk is priceless.

A quote that inspires me: “Live fearlessly not recklessly,” from Mrs. Ethel, a 94 year old. Her social circle included Duke Ellington and Count Basie in her day.

The best thing my parents or guardians ever taught me: Learn something new every day, read, read and read, be kind, be generous, be helpful — and live your life

The person who influenced me the most: My parents. I am half of each, left and rightbrained. As a child of a military family, we lived in a lot of places around the world. We were taught Southern values with a modern outlook. Our family females have quite the Type A personalities. (I could very much be a lady, while arriving on my motorcycle.) Book that influenced me the most: I wish it were so simple for me to identify one book. I am an avid reader of sciences and the arts. I have absorbed bits and pieces of them all my entire life.

Next goal: 2025 — [Become] a full time artist in my home studio, gardening and a little traveling. There are a few continents I have yet to visit.

Legacy List With Matt Paxton Much more than just a how-to show about downsizing, “Legacy List with Matt Paxton” stresses the importance of sharing family stories above holding on to objects.

Photo Courtesy of VPM

The Jamestown Settlement is hosting an exhibition highlighting the work of Ruth E. Carter, a distinguished figure in costume design and a recipient of two Academy Awards. “Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design,” will showcase Ms. Carter’s extensive portfolio, spanning historical periods and cinematic genres. A graduate of Hampton University, Ms. Carter has created thousands of costumes for characters both historical and fictional for such films as “Amistad,” “Roots,” “Malcolm X,” “Selma,” “Do the Right Thing” and “Coming 2 America.”

Curated by Julia Long and organized by Ruth Costume Designs, the exhibition presents Ms. Carter’s craftsmanship with a focus on over 60 original garments. Among the featured pieces are costumes from notable films such as “Black Pan-

Eboni Boadi has been named the chief development officer for the Richmond Symphony, the organization announced Wednesday.

Ms. Boadi’s selection comes as the symphony aims to enhance its growth and financial stability. As part of the executive team, she will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies.

Ms. Boadi starts with the symphony May 13 and expressed excitement about the opportunity. Her affinity for music and

Debut concert at Henrico Sports & Events Center features bluegrass bands

The Henrico Sports & Events Center introduces its musical program with a bluegrass performance set for Friday, June 21. Headlining the inaugural Sips & Strings event are Virginia-based bands South Hill Banks and The Harwell Grice Band.

“We are excited to enrich the entertainment offerings in Henrico with the talents of South Hill Banks and The Harwell Grice Band,” said Dennis Bickmeier, executive director of the Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority. “Sips & Strings presents a compelling opportunity to showcase the diverse capabilities of the Henrico Sports & Events Center, and we anticipate that this will mark the beginning of a memorable concert series.” Renowned for their spirited interpretations of bluegrass, both South Hill Banks and The Harwell Grice Band have garnered acclaim within Virginia and beyond its borders.

The event signifies a significant milestone for the Henrico Sports & Events Center. Since its opening in October, the venue has welcomed over 110,000 attendees for a variety of sporting events, tournaments and community gatherings.

ther,” where Ms. Carter’s blend of traditional and contemporary elements garnered widespread acclaim.

The exhibition, set to open May 11, also will provide insight into Ms. Carter’s creative process, offering a glimpse into her research methods and collaborative approach to costume design.

In addition to showcasing Ms. Carter’s work, the exhibition will include an educational component, exploring the historical context of costume design. A section titled “Fashioned in History” will feature the work of Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation tailors, providing insights into the design process for historical clothing.

Admission to the exhibition is included with entry to Jamestown Settlement. Tickets are $15 to $44. For more information, visit jymuseums.org.

the arts dates back to her childhood, where she began piano lessons and later pursued vocal training.

“Music is an avenue through which people feel seen, inspired, and united,” Ms. Boadi said. “Leading the Richmond Symphony’s efforts to ensure it has every investment it needs, and in the right places, would be one way for me to pay it forward to the next

Councilwoman Ann-Frances Lambert hosts The Women of Gilpin Empowerment Summit on Friday, May 10, from 12:30 to 3 p.m. The event, held at the Calhoun Center, aims to provide support and encouragement to women in the community.

Guest speakers include Dr. Renata Hedrington-Jones, president of the National Organization of Social Workers, and filmmaker and activist Kemba Smith, who will offer insights and perspectives on empowerment and social issues. Ms. Smith will present a pre-recorded video message during the event. A movie based on her life, “Kemba,” debuted on BET+ this year.

Councilwoman Lambert said the summit has potential to foster dialogue and solidarity among women in the community. “The Women of Gilpin Empowerment Summit provides an opportunity for women to come together, share experiences, and explore avenues for personal and collective growth,” Ms. Lambert said. For more information, contact Kiya Stokes at (804) 646-6055 or at kiya.stokes@rva.gov.

Richmond’s Department of Public Works recently announced the return of Music at Main, a series of free music concerts featuring local musicians. The concerts will take place on select Thursdays in May from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on the patio at Main Street Station.

The concert series includes a performance by DJ Danja Mowf and is hosted by Kai Valdez each week, with the following lineup: May 9: Brencore Allstars (A tribute to Frankie Beverly) May 16: J Tucker and the Krewe May 23: Corey El and Sharon Rae North

Attendees are encouraged to bring their friends, family and lawn chairs to an evening of entertainment at Main Street Station.

little pigtailed girl who has yet to discover her talents.”

During her tenure at the Student Conservation Association Ms. Boadi served as vice president of philanthropy and played a key role in fundraising efforts. She has also held fundraising positions at national nonprofit organizations.

Ms. Boadi holds a bachelor’s in government and international relations from George Mason University and a master’s in international law and economics from The Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies.

Colin Gray and SCAD FASH Museum

The costume of Queen Ramonda, as played by actress Angela Bassett in the film “Black Panther,”will be

“Ruth E. Carter:

in Costume Design” exhibition at Jamestown Settlement.

Ms. Smith Ms. Boadi

By Alicia Rancilio Associated Press

It all began with a post on Twitter. It was 2020 during the height of the pandemic and LaDarrion Williams was thinking about the lack of diversity in the fantasy genre. He proposed: “What if Harry Potter went to an HBCU in the South?”

“Growing up, I watched ‘Twilight,’ I watched ‘Hunger Games’ and ‘Divergent’ and ‘Percy Jackson,’ which is one of my favorite books. I didn’t see myself in those stories, and I didn’t feel seen by them,” Mr. Williams said. He is a selftaught playwright, filmmaker and screenwriter.

The post went viral and started a dialogue online, leading Mr. Williams down a long road to make good on his idea. He’s the first to admit though that the process was not a fairytale.

Mr. Williams’ “Blood at the Root,” the first in a three-book deal, arrives in stores Tuesday. Jalyn Hall (“Till”, “All American”) recorded the audio version. The book follows Malik, a 17-year-old with magical powers who gets accepted into Caiman University, an HBCU with a “Blackgical culture” and a magic program.

Mr. Williams talked to The Associated Press about how his tweet became a novel and his inspirations for “Blood at the Root. Answers have been edited for clarity and brevity.

AP: You sent that tweet and got a big reaction. Then what happened?

Williams: I wrote it as a TV pilot. I didn’t intend it to be a novel. I was sharing (the process) online and people were sending me money with CashApp and Venmo from the U.S., Canada, even New Zealand. They said, “Go make this a short film.” It was October 2020. Things were shut down. You couldn’t buy hand sanitizer. I asked my friends, and we shot this magical short film around LA. We snuck onto the UCLA campus. Sorry, UCLA, but we wanted to film on an actual college campus. That’s when I realized this story was very special.

I thought I had it all. I thought I had the viral tweet, the short film, I had the script, I had the idea. I thought Hollywood was going to give me a multimillion-dollar offer. I was humbled very quickly with that. No calls were coming. I struggled to get meetings with different production companies and showrunners and studios. Nobody wanted to meet with me. I was really confused and fell into a deep depression.

AP: Is that when you decided to pivot and write the book?

Williams: I was very sad. There were some days I couldn’t even get out of bed. I felt like I failed my friends who risked their health. I felt I failed people who supported it on social media. It was kind of embarrassing. My friend one day said, “Why don’t you turn it into a book?” With everything

Happenings

that was going on in the world and in America, like the civil unrest, I didn’t think publishing would want this.

At first, they didn’t. I was getting rejections left and right saying, “We can’t connect with this. It’s not marketable.” One of my biggest rejections came on my birthday, Dec. 3, 2022. In late January 2023, I was driving for Uber, and I got a call from my agent who said we got a three-book deal.

AP: Did you scream? Cry?

Williams: No. I turned the Uber app off and drove home in silence. I went to Ralphs and sat in the parking lot and said, “I sold a book. I didn’t

just sell a book, I sold three.” Then I started screaming and calling everybody.

AP: Talk about the protagonist Malik.

Williams: I wanted to create a Black boy from Helena, Ala., which is where I’m from, who has cool magical powers. It’s a coming-of-age story about a 17-year-old who gets to attend this really cool school. He’s fun. He makes friends. Friendships, especially as a teenager, are very important. They kind of set you up for life. Malik also connects with his family and ancestry. He’s had childhood trauma and hardships, and he’s going to make mistakes, but

the mistakes don’t cost him his life. I want people to get to know him. The way he speaks, the way he thinks. I wanted him to have vulnerability and softness. He extends the love he didn’t have as a child to his foster brother. I wanted to create all of that through the lens of magic.

AP: You also were very specific about how you wanted the cover to look.

Williams: The only time I saw myself on book covers was Christopher Paul Curtis’ “The Watsons Go to Birmingham — 1963” and “Bud Not Buddy.” It was a non-negotiable with my publishers. I was like, “I need a

Black boy on the cover. I don’t care how we do it. That’s what I want.” I was a little bold, but it’s all right. I also wanted him in a hoodie on the cover because, you know, black boys in hoodies are often criminalized. I got what I wanted.

AP: Do you still see the story as a TV series?

Williams: There are talks about it. I remember going to watch “Twilight,” as a 6-foot-3 Black kid in Alabama. It was such a cool era to go to the movies and be in this fandom and meet other people that you would never meet. I want to recreate that moment when “Black Panther” dropped, and everybody was just buzzing about it. I want to do that for television. I want that for Black kids.

Author LaDarrion

Steadfast devotion

Faith Community’s Patricia Gould-Champ steps down from pulpit

Free Press staff report

After 28 years, Dr. Patricia A. Gould-Champ last January handed off the pastoral leadership of the church she founded, Faith Community Baptist Church in the East End.

A veteran educator, Dr. Gould-Champ, 77, said she began planning the transition three years ago after the church marked the 25th year of its founding in 1995 in the old Cool Lane Bowling Alley, now just a memory after being removed for the current building.

A Danville native who grew up in Richmond, Dr. Gould-Champ said she initially named two co-pastors, but after one left for a university teaching position, the Rev. Ciarra Smith-Bond was the clear choice.

Today, Rev. Smith-Bond leads the 200-member church at 1903 Cool Lane, just down the street from Armstrong High School in Richmond’s East End.

Dr. Gould-Champ said Rev. Smith-Bond, starting at age 8 or 9, grew up in the church and was part of Faith Community’s Youth Ministry. A 2018 graduate of Virginia Union University’s Samuel Dewitt Proctor School of Theology, Rev. Smith-Bond, spent the past year honing her preaching skills and learning other church

leadership duties.

Dr. Gould-Champ said she followed the biblical model of a three-year training process—prayer, discernment and revelation—in preparing Rev. Smith-Bond to lead Faith Community.

Having worked closely with Rev. SmithBond, Dr. Gould-Champ said the new pastor is well prepared. “I think the best leaders have been good followers in assisting the church leader,” she said.

Rev. Smith-Bond, 37, agrees.

A wife and the mother of three children, Rev. Smith-Bond envisions Faith Community as “a sanctuary of support and solidarity, offering not just spiritual guidance but also practical assistance to meet the diverse needs of the communities we serve.”

Programs that address food insecurity, access to health care, education, job training, affordable housing, and safer communities, are high on her agenda, she added.

By collaborating and partnering with local organizations and

Lonely Mother’s Day, notes a mourning mother

By Lynn Lewis

Mother’s Day 2020 marked a significant shift. It was the first time I faced the day knowing with absolute certainty that I wouldn’t receive a call, card, text or visit from my beloved son, my only child, whom I affectionately called my favorite man-child. Not that day or any other day for that matter.

My reality stemmed from the tragic loss of my son to suicide nine months prior, on Aug. 4, 2019. Seven months after my son’s death, I made a conscious decision that while it would forever be an indelible part of my life, it would not be my life. I determined in my mind on the day before what would have been his 31st birthday that I would not be consumed by the aftermath of his death, but I would thrive in it and that I would move forward living a meaningful and impactful life.

A year later in 2020, the reality of it was still difficult to embrace. And the day served as a stark reminder that I would never again hear my son’s voice, his endearing “Hey Ma” or “Love you, Ma” go on adventures, or hug his slim body. At that time, the pandemic was still rampant around the world. For that reason, church service wasn’t held as usual, which limited my interaction with others. I found solace in the absence of our usual family

gathering with my husband’s family. In the days leading up to Mother’s Day, I wrestled with another daunting truth, one I discussed extensively with my therapist. We talked about how I could navigate the emotional turbulence that Mother’s Day threatened to bring, especially if what I was most concerned about became a reality.

The holiday has never been a big day of celebration for me. My mother passed away when I was a teenager. After her death, I barely acknowledged anyone on Mother’s Day until after the birth of my son more than 10 years later. I’m not anti-Mother’s Day; it’s just challenging for me to embrace the enormity of it not just for myself, but for the many others whose Mother’s Day is not happy. That challenge became

more prevalent after my son’s death. Despite the rawness of my emotions, on Mother’s Day 2020 my heart was full of gratitude. I received acknowledgements from family, friends, church family, colleagues and others with calls, cards, visits, and gifts. At points during that day, I silenced my phone because the number of messages coming in was overwhelming. I remain grateful that I survived my first Mother’s Day as a childless mother!

When the sadness creeps in and I think about what I will never have again, I remind myself that I am and will forever be Daniel’s mother even in his absence.

Here are some things to help you navigate Mother’s Day.

•Exercise your rights as a childless mother.

•Start a tradition to honor the memory of your child.

•Spend time with someone who is open to listening to you talk or just being with you in silence.

•Practice self-love.

•Give yourself grace.

stakeholders, Rev. Smith-Bond believes Faith Community can be a catalyst for positive change, working hand in hand with the community to address systemic injustices and advocate for equitable opportunities for all.

Meanwhile, Dr. Gould-Champ continues to serve as president of Community in Development, Faith Community’s nonprofit. CID will operate a resource center across the street in the former city nursing home that Virginia Supportive Housing has converted into 86 income-restricted apartments for disabled, low-income and homeless people.

Dr. Gould-Champ also continues to teach classes at VUU’s seminary where she has been an assistant professor of practical theology for 30 years.

A former executive pastor at 31st Street Baptist Church, Dr. GouldChamp began Faith Community with her late husband, James Champ III, to primarily serve residents of the Fairfield and Whitcomb public housing communities, later adding Creighton Court.

One part of the vision for the church, she said, was to make it a place “to empower people—spiritually, economically, educationally and socially.”

Among the initiatives she launched after starting the church is a weekly grocery distribution program that provides free food and household items and currently serves about 100 people on Tuesdays.

She also was among the first to start an HIV/AID ministry that has branched out to other churches and community sites. Since 1997, Faith Community has teamed with the Virginia Department of Health and hosts trained counselors to help educate people on prevention and also to connect those served with jobs and job training and transportation and to resources to help them meet other challenges.

Her church also hosts a garden that grows fresh produce for the community.

During her storied career, she was the first female church leader to serve as president of the Baptist General Convention of Virginia, which represents 1,100 congregations across the state.

She has received numerous awards, including the YWCA Woman of the Year in Religion.

Dr. Gould-Champ also is the author of several books, including the “Gospel According to Cancer,” which she wrote after surviving breast cancer.

Completing another book is on Dr. Gould-Champ’s “to-do” list.

As Mother’s Day rapidly ap proaches, it reminds me of the emotional stress and uncertainty I experienced four years ago.

The writer is a certified grief coach at Destined to Thrive Grief Coaching. destinedtothrivegriefcoaching.com

“I am moving to the next thing God is calling me to do,” she said. “We always have to be engaged and listening to what God is calling us to do.”

Bonnie Newman Davis contributed to this article.

Pastor Ralph S. Hodge

FIC.020377;

.032951; V.68.54a

V.92.59.13 Knife boxes

Knife sharpeners V.92.59.11a-k Knitting needles & case

FIC.007523a-t; FIC.007360 Knitting tools FIC.002111-2; V.90.113.6372 Knives

FIC.003481 Knocker

FIC.007901, 7906; FIC.008007; FIC.031007a,b-08a,b Labels

V.92.59.37 Lace pattern FIC.001906, 1955.1, 1965, 1967; FIC.002344; OM.85.01c Ladles

V.75.169.08 Lamplighter pole

V.91.34.01a,b-.04a,b; FIC.002392 Lampshades

FIC.002809-2814; FIC.014901-4912, 4915-4918 Lantern slides

FIC.002675; FIC.003493; FIC.002320 Lanterns

FIC.014914 Lens

FIC.002193 Lens wipes

FIC.002687a,b License plates

FIC.001226, 1235; FIC.001369, 1372a-b, 1398; FIC.003408 Lids

FIC.014701; FIC.002389, 2397; FIC.007534; V.89.88.09; X.67.8 Lighting device components

FIC.003573-3574; FIC.005199; FIC.007109, 7140-7143 Lithographs X.2024.22 Lock components

FIC.015278 Magnifying

glasses FIC.003483 Mandolin

FIC.002800 Manual FIC.007113a; FIC.005151b2b; FIC.019041 Manuscripts

FIC.000126; FIC.0051065120, 5138a, 5125-5153ad, 5155-5184, 5197; FIC.005200-5214; FIC.007151; FIC.0131093121, 3141.1-.3, 3181; FIC.015264.1-.2, .4; FIC.019039-9040; FIC.026854, 6858-6859, 6864, 6889, 6896; FIC.026908-6927; FIC.027015-7016, 7083-7088; V.87.86 Maps FIC.003470; V.91.31 Marbles FIC.007515 Masher FIC.002119 Measuring cups FIC.007382-7391; FIC.007403, 7406-7407, 7410a-c, 7417; 7452; FIC.036203 Meat Juice bottles FIC.003489 Megaphone FIC.001454, 1457a-d, 1492; FIC.001905, 1952-1953, 1977, 1983-1984, 1994; FIC.002319a,b, 2339; FIC.002659-2660, 2662, 2668; FIC.002757; FIC.002836a,b; FIC.003487, 3491; FIC.004289; FIC.0049114912; FIC.005004-5006; FIC.007305, 7312, 7322, 7330; FIC.007517, 7521; FIC.007716-7717, 7722-7724, 7735; FIC.012294, 2332, 2599; FIC.014919; FIC.020423, 0432; FIC.036988; V.89.88.07; V.91.39 Metal fragments FIC.025420 Microphones V.90.42a,b Miniature (toys)

OM.523.01-.03; V.90.27.6.7 Mirrors

FIC.001489, 1497; FIC.006908; FIC.007501; FIC.007725-7726, 7730 Misc. object fragment

V.88.168 Mitts

FIC.006628 Model house

V.91.40a-ee Model kit

FIC.006673a,b Model plane

FIC.001997; OM.130.05.06a; OM.536.11 Mortar & pestles

FIC.002303 Mounting plates

FIC.002324-2328.1,.2 Muffin pans

FIC.002007, 2009; FIC.014926; OM.37.17; OM.85.45; V.90.110 Mugs

FIC.007353 Nail nippers

FIC.002716; FIC.015183; FIC.015673.1,.2; V.71.701; X.50.29.2 Nails

FIC.002688 Nameplates

FIC.003459 Napkin

FIC.002724 Necklace

X.46.06.26-.28 Neckties

FIC.006910 Needlework kit

FIC.019526 Newsletter

FIC.007148; FIC.0127112785, 2799-2819; FIC.013635-3644; FIC.014197-4212; FIC.025504; FIC.0324342436; OM.134; X.60.18.07 Newspapers

FIC.001247 Oil lamps

FIC.002735, 2762; FIC.012600; V.90.22 Organic Specimens

OM.117; X.46.06.04 Overcoats

FIC.002362.1-.3; FIC.002385; V.74.356.04 Padlocks

FIC.003407 Pails

FIC.003439, 3445; FIC.027931-7932 Paintings

FIC.005032; FIC.003469 Paints

FIC.003461-3464; FIC.015615-5621, 5626-5629; FIC.023010.1.11; FIC.023013.023030,.027112a,b027113; V.74.151.01-V.74.151.06;

V.84.67; X.42.01-.05 Paper dolls FIC.006303a,b; FIC.007544; FIC.007960; FIC.008274 Paper fragments FIC.001374; FIC.027935.01-7936.01; OM.511.08; V.89.90 Paperweights FIC.007991; V.90.9 Pencils X.2019.32 Pen FIC.001495-1496, 1498-1499 Pendulums V.89.70.02 Pepper shaker

FIC.001238-1246a,b; FIC.008001.1-.3; OM.85.03; OM.522.01a,b; V.90.19.2-.4; V.90.69.2 Perfume bottles FIC.004930; FIC.005001a,b; FIC.015287-5288; FIC.025024; FIC.0264356442; X.2019.50.03 Phonograph records FIC.002205; FIC.00332033204; FIC.004601; FIC.007158-7162, 7166-7174, 7176; FIC.008501-8533, 8536-8600, 8612, 8614, 8616-8617; FIC.019061; FIC.032481-2483 Photographic prints FIC.002172-2182, 2184, 2187-2189, 2199a-e; FIC.002801-2805a-b, 2817, 2827 Photography equipment FIC.006633; FIC.015058 Pill containers V.92.59.23-.24, .26, .28-.29 Pillow covers FIC.007555; FIC.012563 Pipes FIC.015515; FIC.001540, 1567; OM.37.01-.03, .05, .16a; OM.85.14-.15; V.68.284.4; V.90.111 Pitchers FIC.002061; FIC.002336a,b-2337a,b; FIC.002704; OM.130.22 Planters FIC.002711; OM.55.04; V.2018.76 Plaques FIC.007729, 7733, 7736; FIC.012296; FIC.015092 Plastic fragments

V.92.57.10 Plastron OM.130.14 Plate warmer FIC.002022-2031, 2043; OM.85.01a; V.2003.33.01 Plates

FIC.002017, 2050; FIC.029104; OM.511.13 Platters FIC.005029; V.92.59.40 Pocket knives V.74.356.02a,b Pocket lamp FIC.004932; V.43.32.02a,b; X.49.01.08a,b Pocket scales FIC.002690 Portable desks FIC.015151, 5158; FIC.003424; FIC.012158 Portfolios FIC.003502-3504, 3568, 3572, 3580-3581, 3583-3589, 3591-3599; FIC.005104-5105; FIC.007124-7125, 7127; FIC.013134; FIC.027349 Posters

FIC.001989-1990 Pothooks V.2000.19.12 Powder horns FIC.006424; 504.02; 522.2-.3; 527.01; 534.01.01-.02; 535.2-.5; 538.01; 540.1; 541.01-.14; 545.02a (45.41.1); 551.1; FIC.000712; FIC.003501, 3514, 3518, 3530, 3543, 3545, 3551, 3556-3561, 3567, 3577-3579, 3582; FIC.005100-5101, 5195; FIC.007098-7100, 7102, 7108, 1710, 7114a-qq, 7175; FIC.012078-2088, 2100, 2120-2142, 2144-2148, 2152-2157, 2159-2163, 2173, 2180, 2188-2199; FIC.013102.113, 3184; FIC.016046; FIC.017114; FIC.0195279533, 9535, 9537, 9539; FIC.026901-6904, 6932-7014, 7081; FIC.032329a-g, 2345-2348;

FIC.033901-3915; FIC.036302-6304 Prints

FIC.007963 Puppet FIC.006901; V.2000.47 Purses V.74.164 Quilts V.89.29, .40 Razors X.2019.50.01-.02 Record Album FIC.002798 Record sleeve V.2000.19.20 Repeating rifle

FIC.002719; FIC.012538; OM.65.03 Rocks FIC.007542-7543 Roman shade FIC.004276; FIC.015060, 5072, 5170 Rulers FIC.007508; V.68.1996; V.69.936a,b Sabers

FIC.001960-1961 Salad tongs

FIC.003227; OM.85.40, .54-.56 Saltcellars FIC.001361; V.89.70.01 Saltshakers FIC.015672 Sample books FIC.001570 Sauceboat FIC.001522-1524; FIC.002015, 2034, 2044-2046; OM.37.14a,c; OM.511.06b Saucers FIC.002664a-d Scale & weight set V.90.15 Scalpels

V.92.59.05 Scarf

FIC.003479; FIC.007731; V.90.27.17 Scissors FIC.003420, 3486; FIC.001974 Scoops

V.89.39 Scorecard FIC.007313; FIC.005011 Screwdrivers FIC.007323; FIC.007721 Screws T105; T110; T158; T165; T220; T288; T307; T312-T315; T415; T439; T548.1-.2; FIC.002695; FIC.002709, 2712-2715, 2722; FIC.002867; FIC.006404; FIC.020438; FIC.036210, 6214; OM.51; OM.55.01-.02; V.89.53 Sculptures

FIC.001955.3, 1956a-b, 1958-1959; FIC.002102-6; OM.58a-f; T554 Serving utensils

FIC.004914 Sewing needles

FIC.008005 Sheath

FIC.005992 Sheet music

V.91.24.13a-d Sheet set FIC.020443-44; T23A Shelves FIC.001568; FIC.002729; FIC.020429; V.73.344A-D Sherds

X.46.06.13-.14, .19a,b; V.92.10.02 Shirts V.88.133 Shoe box V.92.59.08 Shoe horn

V.68.2197 Shoe last

V.92.57.14a,b; V.92.59.38a,b; X.46.06.29a,b-.31a,b; X.64.09a,b; V.92.57.14a,b Shoes

FIC.010967-0974; FIC.036996 Shopping bags X.2019.38-.39 Silhouettes

FIC.007745 Slide viewer FIC.002771 Soap

V.68.284.5a,b; V.94.34.02; V.90.44 Soap dishes

X.46.06.20a,b-.21 Socks

FIC.029102.01-.22,24-45; V.90.34; X.2019.28.05a,b Souvenir pin

FIC.001904; FIC.002718, 2758; V.89.88.03-.06 Spikes

FIC.001907-1912, 1914.1-5, 1957, 1964.1-.3, 1975; FIC.002101, 2113-2115; FIC.025009; FIC.003421.1.8; V.69.293; V.75.169.18.01-.12; V.90.8; V.90.113.18-.55; V.91.29.07.10 Spoons OM.64.18a,b Spur FIC.002642; OM.130.29 Steelyards V.89.10a-z; V.91.38 Stencils V.90.94 Stereoscope FIC.004054-4058a,b Stereoviews

FIC.007998; X.2019.18-.20

Stickers L.51.10.02a,b-.03a,b; L.52.05.01a-d; X.44.01; X.55.34; X.57.32.01a,b; X.58.03a,b Stockings FIC.002118; FIC.012546

Stoppers FIC.004902 Stove plate FIC.015182a-c, 5184a-c Strike plates

FIC.004047, 4053, 4059

Stuffed animals

FIC.005003 Stylus

OM.37.16b; V.80.203 Sugar bowls V.69.04 Sugar nips

FIC.001963; V.78.16i Sugar tongs X.46.06.01a-c Suit FIC.003405 Sundials V.92.59.35a,b Sunglasses V.92.57.25 Sweater FIC.007349a-c Swift OM.122.01a,b-.02a,b; V.69.514-.517; V.69.968; V.2000.19.04a,b, .21a,b, .23 Swords

V.91.24.07-.09; V.92.59.16, .30a-e Table linens

FIC.002062-2064; OM.37.18, .21, .24-.25 Tankards V.90.59 Tape measures OM.130.23, .25 Tea caddies

V.89.52 Waffle irons FIC.0264723; X.46.06.15 Waistcoats V.71.562 Wall hanging V.92.59.03, .42; X.44.19 Wallets FIC.007519 Washboard V.2006.04.98 Water bottle FIC.015106; FIC.027930; X.2019.34; X.2019.35.01.24 Watercolors FIC.001501.1-.3; FIC.001902a-h; FIC.002665a-d; FIC.007334-7335a,b Weights FIC.001455a-d Wheels V.68.1385 Whip FIC.002654; FIC.0015546; V.71.64.63 Whisk brooms V.90.60.2 Whistle FIC.001215a-d; FIC.006632; FIC.001488; FIC.001491.1,.2; FIC.002332; FIC.0026782679; FIC.002717, 2720-2721, 2736-2742, 2775-2777; FIC.002815, 2899; FIC.004075; FIC.004903, 4918, 4960; FIC.007303, 7310, 7314, 7329, 7342, 7345; FIC.007520, 7535; FIC.007718, 7734; FIC.015670; FIC.020422 Wooden Fragments FIC.007553, 7556-7557

Worked rock fragments FIC.007541; FIC.007728 Wrenches FIC.004929 Yardsticks FIC.007346, 7379 Yarn Please visit website or contact museum for information on how to make a claim: The Valentine Museum Rachel Asbury Cole, Collections Project Manager/ Registrar 804-649-0711 ext. 329 rasburycole@thevalentine.org

FIC.001972 Tea infuser FIC.003215a-b, 3217a-b; OM.37.16c Teapots FIC.002685; V.69.185 Telephones FIC.001468; FIC.025020a,b; FIC.002680; FIC.002730; FIC.007732; V.92.57.13a-d, .24; V.92.59.01, .19, .33, .39, .46, .48; V.2000.19.09; T150 Textile & leather fragments FIC.005102 Theater program FIC.004938 Thermometers FIC.032383 Timetable V.2004.57.07-.08 Tin cans FIC.002338, 2346 Toasting forks FIC.015153; FIC.027046; X.2023.17 Tokens FIC.000079; FIC.001986; FIC.002310; FIC.003415a-f; FIC.004928; FIC.005012; FIC.007331-7332, 7343-7344, 7381a-d Tool & kitchenware fragments FIC.007304 Top (toy) V.92.59.49 Towel FIC.007302a-m; V.74.356.01 Toy blocks FIC.004039-4046; FIC.004963-4999; FIC.006600-6623, 6626, 6630-6631, 6634, 6640-6645, 6647-6653, 6655-6662, 6664-6668, 6677-6693, 6698-6701; FIC.025271; V.68.1924.0135; V.68.1930.01-.12; Thank you for your

Woodman Road Improvements Henrico County, Virginia

The County of Henrico is proposing to improve 1.75 miles of Woodman Road to provide a four-lane divided roadway between Hungary Road and Mountain Road. The project includes turn lane improvements, a shared use path, and sidewalk along the corridor. Pedestrian crossings with pushprovide comments.

site below or at the County of Henrico, Department of Public Works, 4305 E. Parham Road, 3rd Floor, Henrico, VA 23228. Telephone: (804) 501-5532.