Harris asks for support at address to Zeta Phi Beta
By Josh Bobak
Vice President Kamala Harris told members of Zeta Phi Beta
Sorority on Wednesday that “we are not playing around” and asked for their help in electing her president in November.
“In this moment, I believe we face a choice between two different visions for our nation, one focused on the future, the other focused on the past,” she said in a speech three days after launching her bid for the White House. “And with your support, I am fighting for our nation’s future.”
Voters in Indiana haven’t backed a Democratic presidential candidate in nearly 16 years. But Harris, a woman of Black and South Asian descent, was speaking to a group already excited by her historic status as the likely Democratic nominee and one that her campaign hopes can expand its coalition.
On Wednesday, she thanked the room full of women for their work electing her vice president, and Joe Biden president. “And now, in this moment, our nation needs your leadership once again,” she said.
In a memo released Wednesday, campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon pointed to support among female, nonwhite and younger voters as critical to success.
“Where Vice President Harris goes, grassroots enthusiasm follows,” O’Malley Dillon wrote. “This campaign will be close, it will be hard fought, but Vice President Harris is in a position of strength — and she’s going to win.”
Still, Democrats face challenges as the country is nursing frustrations over higher prices following a spike in inflation
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Council sells site to Planned Parenthood, sounds off on noise policy
By George Copeland Jr.
A wide range of changes to health care, business, eviction prevention and noise control in Richmond are in the works following the latest City Council meeting Monday evening.
In a unanimous vote, City Council approved the sale of the vacant, former REAL School building at 4929 Chamberlayne Ave. in the city’s North Side to The Virginia League of Planned Parenthood for $10.
According to the ordinance, first proposed by Mayor Levar M. Stoney following an unsolicited offer, the VLPP will build a clinic that will provide family planning, primary care and gender-affirming care services. The group intends to ensure care is available to all Richmond residents, regardless of their insurance or income level, according to operations details included in the ordinance.
The approval of the sale
Planned Parenthood intends to build a new health center at Chamberlayne and Azalea avenues, replacing the former REAL School building.
will bring the third Planned Parenthood clinic to the city and fulfills the city’s commitment to address health disparities made in the Richmond Equity Agenda in 2021 and a resolution focused on reproductive health
care access in 2022.
“This new Planned Parenthood Center will not only improve access to reproductive health care, but also ensure that we live up to our promise of addressing health inequities in
our city,” City Council Vice President Ann-Frances Lambert said in a statement released after the meeting.
“I am proud that this center
Health officials warn of rising COVID-19 cases as summer heats up
By George Copeland Jr.
With the summer season in full swing, local and state health officials are urging the public to take steps to protect themselves from COVID-19 infection, as cases recently have risen across the United States.
Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Health Director Elaine Perry reports a steady increase in COVID-19 diagnoses in emergency room visits. The percentage rose from about 0.2% in late May to over 1% by mid-July.
A similar uptick can be seen statewide, with a rise in emergency room visits beginning the week of May 18. Sharper upticks started in June and July, with 1.68% attributed to COVID-19 for the week of July 20. Wastewater surveillance also showed increased levels of COVID-19 infection across the state.
Health officials made clear this trajectory is similar to increases seen in previous summers since the emergence of COVID-19.
Woodville Elementary joins extended school year program
Free Press staff report
Woodville Elementary School in Richmond’s East End welcomed students back to class earlier than usual this week, marking its first year as part of the city’s RPS200 initiative. The program, now in its second year, extends the school year by 20 days to boost student achievement.
On Monday, Richmond Public Schools
Superintendent Jason Kamras and Mayor Levar M. Stoney greeted Woodville families as the school joined three others in the extended calendar program.
“We decided to join the RPS200 program because we knew that this would be the right thing for our scholars,”
Woodville Principal Dava Allen-Miller said. “Our [neighbor] school, Fairfield Court Elementary piloted the program last year, and their incredible success in literacy, student achievement and student attendance made it clear that this was the most powerful program for our school.”
Fairfield Court saw remarkable gains in its first year, with a 21% increase
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Photos by Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press
Woodville Elementary School Assistant Principal Nsombi Morrison, right, hugs and cheers for students on their first day back at school Monday, July 22, as a part of the RPS200 program.
Craig Belcher/Richmond Free Press
An excited Cynthia Matthews, a fourthgrader at Woodville Elementary School, arrives for her first day back Monday as a part of the RPS200 program. She is steps ahead of her mother, Angelica Blackman, who brought her to school.
Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press A nurse prepares vaccines during a mass vaccination event held at the Richmond Raceway in 2021.
Brendan Smialowski/Pool via AP
Vice President Kamala Harris arrives July 24 at Indianapolis International Airport. Harris was in Indianapolis to give a keynote speech at Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s Grand Boulé event.
VCU Medical Center tops Richmond hospital rankings again
Free Press staff report
VCU Medical Center has been named the top hospital in the Metro Richmond area for the 14th consecutive year by U.S. News & World Report.
In the 2024-2025 Best Hospital rankings released Tuesday, VCU Medical Center also ranked second in Virginia for the second year in a row. The hospital received national rankings in three specialty areas: rehabilitation (19), orthopedics (33), and cardiology and heart and vascular surgery (42).
“These rankings are a testament to the unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit of our outstanding team members,” said Michael Roussos, president of VCU Medical Center.
U.S. News evaluated nearly 5,000 hospitals across 15 specialties and 20 procedures and conditions. Only 11% of evaluated hospitals earned a Best Hospitals ranking.
The VCU Health Pauley Heart Center was recognized for its comprehensive cardiac services and research contributions. Greg Hundley, director of the Pauley Heart Center, said, “We have achieved this outstanding national recognition from U.S. News & World Report thanks to that mission, and more importantly, thanks to the tireless Pauley team members who enact it.”
Sheltering Arms Institute, a joint venture between VCU Health and Sheltering Arms, ranked 19th nationally for physical rehabilitation. The 114-bed inpatient facility opened in June 2020.
VCU Medical Center also was designated as “High Performing” in cancer care, gastroenterology and GI surgery, and pulmonology and lung surgery. The hospital received the highest ranking possible in 10 critical procedures and conditions, including heart attack, heart failure and various cancer surgeries.
Henrico County planning decades in advance
By Sam Brown
It’s never too soon to plan ahead. Some people may make plans a few days early, or a few weeks, maybe even months. Others like to make plans a full year ahead. In Henrico County, plans are in motion 21 years in advance.
Henrico’s Department of Planning is considering what the county will look like in 2045. The early look at the county’s future is not unique for Henrico. The most recent major update of the county’s comprehensive plan was “Vision 2026,” which was adopted 17 years prior in 2009. The plans will include chapters on recommended land uses; natural resources; recreation, parks, open spaces and cultural resources; transportation; and public facilities and utilities. There also will be a focus on pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
The department is interested in hearing the opinions of the community. Starting Monday, they have scheduled “listening sessions” where residents can hear early draft statements and share their thoughts and ideas with the department. Attendees also are encouraged to bring a smartphone or tablet to share their thoughts electronically.
There will be five listening sessions between July 29 and Aug. 20:
• Monday, July 29, at Fairfield Area Library, 1401 N. Laburnum Ave.
• Tuesday, July 30, at Libbie Mill Library, 2100 Libbie Lake East St.
• Monday, Aug. 12, at Tuckahoe Area Library, 1901 Starling Drive
• Monday, Aug. 19, at Varina Area Library, 1875 New Market Road
• Tuesday, Aug. 20, at Twin Hickory Area Library, 5001 Twin Hickory Road
Once the Board of Supervisors approves the plan, it will serve as the county’s official guide for development decisions as well as investments in public facilities and infrastructure.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending on Saturday, July 20, confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Virginia fell 1.9% from the previous week. Three deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported statewide during that timeframe. COVID-19 wastewater levels in the Greater Richmond area last week, on average, plateaued following an increase the week before.
The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following locations:
• Thursday, July 25, 1 to 5 p.m. - Henrico Arms Apartments, 1566 Edgelawn Circle.
• Tuesday, July 30, 4 to 6 p.m. - Neighborhood Resource Center of Greater Fulton, 1519 Williamsburg Road.
• Wednesday, July 31, 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 804-371-0433.
• 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 804-2302077.
• 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 at 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 places that offer the COVID-19 vaccine, and those interested also can text their ZIP code to 438829 or call 1-800-232-0233. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children between the ages of 6 months to 4 years old may need multiple doses of the updated vaccines depending on their vaccine status and whether they had previously received Pfizer and Moderna. Children between the ages of 5 to 11 years old who are unvaccinated or received a vaccine before Sept. 12, 2023, should get one updated Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.
Waiting periods for additional vaccines can range from three to eight weeks or four to eight weeks, depending on the vaccine dose previously received. 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. Information compiled by George Copeland Jr.
Cityscape
Slices of life and scenes in Richmond
Midwifery provides safe haven for Black families
By Arrman Kyaw
A birthing center in Midlothian offers families an alternative approach to pregnancy care and childbirth.
Gather Grounded Midwifery, which opened in August 2023, operates from a 1,200-square-foot cottage at 235 Wylderose Court. The center provides comprehensive reproductive health services, including breast exams, STI testing and fertility planning. It also offers a package that covers lab work, prenatal care, birth support and postpartum care for several weeks.
Racha Tahani Lawler Queen, the lead midwife and founder, established Gather Grounded as an alternative to traditional hospital settings, where she said Black families often face fear, racism and negative experiences during childbirth.
“It’s very difficult to disrupt from the inside and create change [inside hospitals],” Lawler Queen explained. “As a nursing student, I saw Black families harmed when they tried to advocate for themselves or have the births they wanted. It was very traumatic watching people be harmed in the hospital and not being able to do anything about it.”
According to 2021 CDC data, nonHispanic Black women have the highest maternal mortality rates in the U.S. – 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, more than twice the rate for non-Hispanic white women. To note, these specific statistics did not indicate whether such deaths occurred in hospital or non-hospital settings.
Lawler Queen, a fourth-generation midwife with over 20 years of experience, previously ran a birth center in South Los Angeles before moving to Richmond.
Gather Grounded offers families the option to deliver their babies in a comfortable “birth suite” outside of a hospital setting,
when health conditions permit. The center also addresses the national shortage of midwives of color. While less than 5% of midwives in the country are people of color, Gather Grounded has one midwife of color and is training three more through its yearlong Traditional Midwifery Freedom Path program.
Audrey Gentry-Brown, one of the apprenticing midwives, noted, “I knew that I didn’t like working in hospitals with clients. A lot of them just didn’t feel comfortable. They wanted culturally competent care.”
The midwifery service saw its first birth in October 2023, a vaginal birth from a mother who had previously gotten a C-section for her first pregnancy.
Whitney Lewis, the mother, praised the personalized care she received: “Each of
my appointments with Racha probably lasted about an hour to two hours long. It’s not like the normal doctor’s visit. If I had any questions about my eating habits or if the baby wasn’t moving a certain way, she had an answer to almost every question that I had.”
Lawler Queen emphasizes that Gather Grounded provides families with another option to consider, especially if they don’t feel safe in traditional hospital settings. She encourages families to assess the birthing and maternal/fetal death statistics of hospitals when making their choice.
“Maybe the numbers are low. Maybe the numbers are high. Whatever is their deciding factor, they now have another option … to at least consider, especially if they don’t feel safe,” Lawler Queen said.
Richmond procurement department wins national award
Free Press staff report
The City of Richmond’s Department of Procurement Services has received the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award from the National Procurement Institute, officials announced Sunday.
Richmond was one of only four Virginia entities among 194 national honorees last year. The award recognizes the department’s commitment to excellence in procurement practices.
Rene Almaraz, director of City Procurement Services, praised his team’s efforts.
“This prestigious award represents our team’s focus to continually improve our approach, processes, and customer focus,” Almaraz said. “We look forward to building on this milestone by incorporating more best practices, leveraging technologies, and continuing to grow a professional staff who are committed to serving the residents of Richmond.”
Recent achievements include implementing a new procurement system and enabling city departments to operate with greater autonomy.
“I cannot thank our team enough for their hard work and diligence toward making DPS one of the best procurement organizations in the nation,” Almaraz added.
The award follows Almaraz’s profile in CPOstrategy Magazine as a national leader in procurement. He brings 33 years of experience from the Department of Defense and the private sector.
Senators introduce legislation to support lower-income artists
Free Press staff reports
U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner, D-Va., and Thom Tillis, R-N.C., introduced the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act of 2024 on Tuesday, aiming to provide tax relief to lower and middle-income performing artists. This legislation updates the Qualified Performing Artist tax deduction, allowing more artists to deduct work-related expenses.
The QPA tax deduction, unchanged since its inception in 1986, currently applies only to artists earning less than $16,000 annually. The new legislation proposes raising the income ceiling to $100,000 for individuals and $200,000 for married joint filers.
“The Commonwealth of Virginia has
a rich culture fueled by small local artists who often use their own funds to subsidize their work,” Sen. Warner said. “I am proud to introduce legislation that updates an outdated tax deduction in order to help more artists cover costs of workrelated expenses.”
“I am honored to introduce this legislation in support of North Carolina’s vibrant artistic community,” Sen. Tillis added. “This bill eliminates an unnecessary burden in our tax code, simplifying the path for artists to pursue their creative endeavors.”
Sen. Warner first introduced similar leg-
islation in 2021 amid COVID-19 recovery efforts. The Performing Artist Tax Parity Act has garnered support from various organizations, including the Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO, the Actors’ Equity Association, the Theatre Communications Group and the Recording Academy/GRAMMYs. Reps. Judy Chu, D-Ca., and Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., have introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
Actress Brooke Shields, president of Actors’ Equity Association, noted the broad support for the legislation, stating, “Sens. Warner and Tillis have introduced a simple bipartisan fix that will level the playing field for arts workers, many of whom spend thousands of dollars out of pocket on business expenses.”
Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press Racha Tahani Lawler Queen, a fourth generation midwife from Los Angeles, is the founder and owner of Midlothian’s Gather Grounded Midwifery.
Brian Palmer
Mayor Levar M. Stoney, City Council member Stephanie Lynch, along with artists Silly Genius and Chis Visions, opened the public art initiative titled “Part of Parking Lot Pieces” and “Carytown Street Art Jam” on July 15 at the Carytown Garage.
Rene Almaraz
Sen. Warner
Harris asks for support at address to Zeta Phi Beta
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while Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, survived a recent assassination attempt that further energized his already loyal base. But the memo was more optimistic than the narrow path the campaign saw after the 81-year-old Biden delivered a disastrous debate performance in June. He quit the race Sunday.
Harris mentioned he’d be addressing the nation later Wednesday on why he decided to step aside, and called him a “leader with a bold vision.”
“We are all deeply, deeply grateful for his service to our nation,” she said before turning to contrast the administration’s agenda with that of Trump’s.
“These extremists want to take us back, but we are not going back,” she said. “All across our nation we are witnessing a full-on assault on hard-fought, hard-won freedoms and rights.”
She cited the freedom to vote, to be safe from gun violence, to love whom you want to love openly, to “learn and acknowledge our true and full history,” and the freedom “of a woman to make decisions about her body and not have her government telling her what to do.”
While the campaign will keep emphasizing
what it calls its Blue Wall states of Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania to get the needed 270 electoral votes, Harris hopes to be competitive in North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada as well.
Trump has generally run stronger with white voters who do not hold a college degree. AP VoteCast, a comprehensive survey of voters and nonvoters that aims to tell the story behind election results, found that group made up 43% of all voters in 2020 and Trump won them by a margin of 62% to 37%, even though overall he lost the election.
For Democrats, Black women would probably make a fundamental difference in November, and Harris has already shown signs of galvanizing their support.
In the 2020 election, AP VoteCast found that Black women were just 7% of the electorate. But 93% of them voted for Biden, helping to give him narrow victories in states such as Michigan, Pennsylvania and Georgia.
After Harris announced her candidacy, roughly 90,000 Black women logged onto a video call Sunday night for her campaign. It was a sudden show of support for an alumni of Howard University and sister in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority who has made Beyonce’s song “Freedom” her walk-on music at events.
Boulé in
Council sells site to Planned Parenthood, sounds off on noise policy
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will be in the Third District and I look forward to seeing all of the benefits it will provide North Side and beyond.”
The building had fallen into disrepair before and after being acquired by the City from Richmond Public Schools. The building is currently “uninhabitable,” according to Sharon Ebert, deputy chief administrative officer for economic and community development.
VLPP anticipates a $6 million capital investment for the new facility, with 20 new, permanent, full-time jobs estimated to be created in the process alongside many temporary construction jobs.
The sale came amid a rise in abortion care statewide following the repeal of Roe v. Wade and restrictions to reproductive health care access across the country.
According to the VLPP, their Virginia clinics have seen a 30% increase in outof-state clients recently, with overall clinician-provided abortions in Virginia increasing by 84.7% since 2020.
The sale wasn’t made without some disagreement. The Family Foundation of Virginia sent a letter through its legal arm, the Founding Freedoms Law Center, calling on Stoney to suspend the sale last week. A statement Monday from the group again criticized the move, and promised potential legal action if the sale
was approved.
“Richmond City Council essentially gifting the establishment of a fifth abortion center within city limits is appalling,” said Victoria Cobb, president of the Family Foundation of Virginia.
Many of the public comments made in opposition during the meeting struck a similar chord. Over two dozen speakers criticized the sale, suggested alternatives, questioned its legality or challenged the morality of Planned Parenthood’s work and City officials.
Eight other Richmond residents, however, touted Planned Parenthood’s value not just for women’s reproductive care but medical care in general, with some pointing to their own experiences as patients or the benefits it provided to those they know.
“We all deserve health care that allows us to live our fullest lives,” said Rae Pickett, a Planned Parenthood patient. “I urge the council to uphold the commitment it made after Roe was overturned and to ensure patients have access to high quality health care in a place where providers can feel safe to provide it.”
In addition, the City Council adopted a change in the City’s noise ordinance. Violations will now only be considered following a call for service or verbal complaints made to a police officer.
The amended ordinance also excludes
motor vehicles among the potential sound violations when on a public right-of-way and when noises are measured at a distance of at least 50 feet. The sounds made by radios, horns or other electronic devices inside parked or stopped vehicles remain potential violations.
Violators will now have to pay a $100 fine 15 days after receiving notice of the violation, with more fees for further violations within the week after the first. Failure to pay may now result in a warrant of debt filed by the City in the General District Court.
The new amendment removes an option for those who violate the noise ordinance to admit liability or plead no contest, in person or by mail, at the Department of Finance and pay the civil penalty within the notice’s time period.
City Council also voted 8-1 to approve the start of the process for a potential Business Improvement and Recruitment District in Carytown. This process will include discussions with local property owners and businesses.
City Council approved several other ordinances. These included an amendment to the 2024-2025 General Fund Budget and a $1 million appropriation to create and fund a South Side Community Development and Housing Corporation. This corporation will be part of the city’s Eviction Diversion Program.
Woodville Elementary joins extended school year program
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in K-2 literacy scores and a 23% decrease in chronic absenteeism. These results helped convince Woodville and Oak Grove-Bellemeade Elementary to join this year, expanding the program to four schools.
“The pandemic was a once-in-a-life educational crisis, which calls for a once-in-a-lifetime response,” Kamras said. “What Fairfield Court and hopefully the rest of RPS200 schools are showing is that any one of our schools, any one of our students can achieve at the highest levels if we give them the resources that they need, most of all, more time.” The program’s success has drawn attention outside of Richmond. State Superintendent Lisa Coons praised the initiative, calling it “an incredible honor” and noting Richmond’s early literacy growth was “some of the best growth
in the state.”
Stoney, an early supporter of RPS200, highlighted the city’s increased investment in education. “Under our leadership, over the course of now seven and half years, I am proud to have partnered with the School Board and City Council to invest the most in Richmond Public Schools that we’ve seen in history — a 57% increase in funding,” he said.
Initially funded through pandemic relief funds, the program received additional support this year from Bloomberg Philanthropies to continue and expand.
As Woodville Elementary embarks on its extended school year, educators and city leaders are optimistic about the potential for continued academic improvement and reduced absenteeism following the encouraging results seen at Fairfield Court and Cardinal Elementary schools last year.
Health officials warn of rising COVID-19 cases as summer heats up
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“We’re about on par with the summer of 2023 last year,” said Elena Diskin, manager of the Respiratory Disease and Vaccine Preventable Disease Program for the Virginia Department of Health. “Over the past few years we have seen this pattern of a smaller wave of COVID-19 activity in the late summer, followed by the more significant wave of COVID-19 activity later in the winter, peaking around New Year’s.”
Both Perry and Diskin pointed to the summer heat as a contributor to this rise, as it leads people to spend more time indoors and close together. This proximity can aid in the spread of not just COVID-19 but other respiratory illnesses during the season.
They also noted other factors contributing to the increase in cases, such as only 14% of the Richmond population receiving the most recent COVID-19 vaccine to the emergence of new variants.
Perry and Diskin recommended residents stay up to date with their vaccinations, follow good hygiene practices such as washing their hands, staying home when sick and taking steps to ensure access to clean air and proper ventilation.
These measures will only become more relevant in the months to come, as the fall season begins and seasonal illnesses such as the flu become greater concerns. Health officials, however, are already preparing and encouraging the public to take advantage of the resources presented by local health providers when the time comes.
“We are gearing up for a busy fall season, including back to school and the elections,” Perry said. “People will have a lot on their plates and may not feel like they have time for one more thing. The good news is that it is safe and effective to receive the COVID-19 and the flu vaccine at the same time so folks will only have to make one trip.”
City addresses sewer pipe leaks along James River
Free Press staff report
The City of Richmond is working with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality to address two separate sewer leak incidents that occurred this month along the Tredegar Pipeline Trail.
The first leak, reported July 2, was attributed to heavy rainfall and exacerbated by a stormwater connection from a nearby commercial property.
City officials state this incident was reported to DEQ within 24 hours as required and has since been closed by the department.
A second leak was reported July 15, prompting an immediate response from the City.
Repairs are ongoing for this incident.
The Virginia Department of Health has issued a Recreational Water Advisory for the James River from Manchester Bridge to Osborne Landing.
Officials continue to monitor water quality and will lift the advisory when bacteria levels are deemed safe for recreational contact.
Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities is implementing both short-term and long-term solutions to address the 42-inch failed pipe in the combined sewer system. Short-term measures include installation of inflatable plugs to isolate the damaged section, application of a temporary patch using epoxy and steel plates, and isolation of the damaged line segment. Long-term plans involve a more permanent solution, which will require extensive engineering design due to the pipe’s elevated position above the river. City officials report repair efforts have faced challenges due to the pipe’s location and the complexity of the damage. Work on welding metal flanges to isolate the pipe ends is expected to begin in early August. The city continues to meet regularly with DEQ and VDH to coordinate repair efforts and monitor environmental impacts. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
We stand for Equality Justice Opportunity Freedom and we fearlessly ght for Equality Justice Opportunity Freedom
Richmond Free Press e People’s Paper
Harris will follow her Indiana trip by going to Houston to speak Thursday at the national convention of the American Federation of Teachers, which has endorsed her candidacy.
Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press
Mayor Levar M. Stoney, right, gives a high five to a Woodville Elementary School student as they arrive on their first day back at school on Monday, July 22. The school is part of the RPS200 pilot program that was launched last year.
AP Photo/Darron Cummings
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks July 24 during the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s Grand
Indianapolis.
July 25-27, 2024
Arresting behavior
Last month, a black woman in Springfield, Ill., called the police to report an intruder in her home. Shortly after two police officers arrived, the woman, Sonya Massey was killed. Her family members said police officers led them to believe that their loved one, who suffered from mental illness, was killed by an intruder, according to one report. Her father told People magazine that the police suggested that her wounds were “self inflicted.” Recently obtained bodycam footage of the incident told the real story this week. You may not be surprised to learn that the police lied about what happened that night.
In the video, it appears Massey was shot in the face by one of the officers, who pulled his gun out when she stood near a pot of boiling water. Massey is heard rebuking the officer, “in the name of Jesus.” The officer, Sean Grayson, responds with an expletive laden threat to shoot her in the head. Massey apologizes, and Grayson fires his weapon anyway, killing her. In the moments afterward, he appears nonchalant and unbothered and he discourages his partner from administering medical attention. Last week, Grayson was indicted on three counts of first degree murder, along with other charges related to the incident. He was denied a pretrial release.
The tragedy brings to mind other Black women who have suffered similar fates at the hand of police officers: Breonna Taylor, Atatiana Jefferson, and Sandra Bland, to name just a few. These cases highlight a disturbing pattern of violence against Black women by law enforcement, often rooted in racial bias and a disregard for life. It also reminds us of the death of Micheal Otieno, killed while in law enforcement custody and suffering from mental illness.
Some say that a better trained “force,” could produce better outcomes from situations such as these. A comment from Grayson’s supervisor makes the case that this may not be the answer.
“The Body Worn Camera footage has now been released, and the public can see what we saw: Sonya Massey lost her life due to an unjustifiable and reckless decision by former Deputy Sean Grayson,” Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell stated on Monday. “Grayson had other options available that he should have used. His actions were inexcusable and do not reflect the values or training of our office.”
He’s saying his officer knew better, but chose brutality instead.
The frequency of these incidents point to a lack of transparency and accountability within law enforcement. The attempts to mislead Massey’s family about the circumstances of her death reveal a “cover-up culture” that erodes what’s left of the public trust.
Let’s hope the recent endorsement of former prosecutor Kamala Harris as a presidential candidate brings a new dimension to the conversation on police reform. Her background in criminal justice has drawn both praise and criticism, placing her in a unique position. We hope her candidacy sparks discussion about addressing the deep-rooted issues in our criminal justice system, including the use of force against Black people and those with mental health challenges. Meaningful change will require more than just policy adjustments. We hope Harris’ presence on the national stage pushes these crucial conversations to the forefront.
Water flows at Bryan Park
President Harris would represent
Fearmongering, when used as a political tool, has always been an effective means of swaying voters and winning elections.
Deliberately arousing public fear by way of racial and political overtures was effective when Barry Goldwater and Nixon decided to target white conservative voters in implementing the Southern strategy.
Former President Richard Nixon once said, “People react to fear, not love. They don’t teach that in Sunday school, but it’s true.”
Nixon’s statement shows his true heart. It also exposes how the specific people he is referring to are driven not by love, but by their hate. In turn, their hate perpetuates the fear of having any form of progressive change.
Fear is a powerful emotion. There is not a person on the face of the Earth who has not, at some point in their lifetime, experienced some type of fear. Whether we are young or old, fear can have a demoralizing grip on a person’s life. A tightening grip where a person loses confidence and hope, thereby leaving
them lost and empty.
We see this when countless members of the Republican establishment lost all political courage and backbone to publicly speak the truth about Donald Trump. Rather than challenge what they know to be wrong, they became enablers.
Sen. Mitch McConnell is one who comes to mind. Sen. Lindsey Graham is another.
The country pays a heavy price when those with influence and power are unwilling to put their selfish motives, pride, ego
and their fears aside for the best interest of the nation.
But there is another side of fear we must consider, and even embrace. This is the type of fear that will cause independent and progressive voters to fight and win at any costs. It is the type of fear that presents a heightened sense of urgency knowing that the consequences we face cannot be allowed to occur. This type of fear makes us afraid where it drives us as individuals and communities to do what is right and necessary because of the enormous existential threat to democracy and the threats posed to people
new era of leadership
of color, veterans, young people, the elderly, the poor, immigrants and to the climate.
We should be very afraid of having someone like J.D. Vance as vice president and in line to carry the mantle of the MAGA movement beyond the Trump era. We should be very afraid of the conservative mandate that calls for the elimination of public protection agencies such as the FDA and EPA. We should be very afraid of plans to defund the FBI and Homeland Security.
We should be very afraid of plans to cut Social Security, Medicare and end the Affordable Care Act. We should be very afraid at the prospect of eliminating unions and worker protections. We should be very afraid of the continued end of civil rights and DEI protections in government. We should be very afraid of the threat of the Supreme Court and lower courts being packed with right wing judges who ignore the rule of law.
We should be very afraid that too many people are not paying attention and will regret not doing their part in stopping a second Trump administration. John Lewis taught us about getting into good trouble, necessary trouble. In the 2024 election and beyond, we must now be
Telling the truth not a call to violence.
When the stakes are high … when there is a real threat … should staying silent even be an option?
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a lot to say on the subject of silence.
He said, “There comes a time when silence is betrayal.” And, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
He spoke of how, in the struggles for freedom and justice, what we will ultimately remember is “the silence of our friends.”
So are we to be friends to the vast numbers of Americans whose fundamental rights and livelihoods are on the line at a pivotal time for our nation? Are we to be friends to the communities that we know will be targeted, marginalized, and denied America’s promise of opportunity? Are we to be friends to the planet itself, and the life it supports from the bounty of nature to the entire human race?
Many people would say that when faced with the choice to speak up – to sound the alarm –or to remain silent, that choosing silence is not simply cowardly, it is immoral. I am one of them.
The greatest movements for freedom and justice of the last century were defined by peaceful methods. Passive resistance in the Civil Rights Movement. Civil disobedience in anti-war efforts. Divesting financial support from unjust systems and institutions like South African apartheid. From rallies and marches to
sit-ins and the tactics mentioned above, in no way was speaking out ever seen as a call to violence. Shining a light on injustice is necessary. And in a democracy, the most powerful remedy must always – always – be ballots, not bullets. That is why we organize.
There is a difference between truthfully explaining to people what is at stake for them in an election and targeting one’s political opposition with dehumanizing slurs. The same goes for using dehumanizing rhetoric against groups of people based on their
race, religion, gender identity, sexuality or national origin.
The difference between truthtelling and violent or inciting rhetoric is not simply in the eye of the beholder. We should be expected to be able to draw the line between the two. Political actors need to respect that line. And the media does, too. For the news media, that means not being cowed into treating important and necessary truthtelling as something dangerous or unsavory.
It is not rocket science.
It is unacceptable to suggest we are in the middle of a second civil war and that it could tip to violence if one side does not get their way. It is unacceptable to suggest that certain election results could trigger a “bloodbath” or warrant armed insurrection or violence between various groups or factions of Americans.
What else is and should be out of bounds: calling opponents “vermin,” describing them as a disease, referring to certain groups of people as “rats” or
less than human, or saying the primary goal of tens of millions of people who might disagree with your politics is the actual destruction of our country.
What is certainly fair game and must remain fair game: Vocally sharing the truth, in a matter-offact way, about your opposition’s stated agenda and policies, and what is at stake with the choices in any given election.
Right now, in the wake of the most recent act of political violence – itself a direct attack on our democracy, to be sure – many far right media figures and activist leaders are trying to equate fair criticism and discussion of the stakes of this election with violence-inciting rhetoric. It is a scam. And it is yet another attack on our democracy. That is because democracy depends on a certain amount of transparency, the civil free exchange of ideas and information, and a free press that is not too intimidated to report the facts or shy away from those sounding legitimate alarms.
Calls to suspend valid criticism of any party or candidate are no different than calls to quash dissent or eliminate critical thinking among the members of a society. The mainstream media, from newspapers to networks to online platforms, must fulfill their obligation to the truth and live up to their important role in our democracy. They must not give into cowardice. They must continue to provide a platform for those who tell the truth and continue to report, loudly and clearly, on facts, evidence and what is at stake for our country.
Ben Jealous is the executive director of the Sierra Club and a professor at the University of Pennsylvania.
driven by a positive fear which beats back the darkness and preserves the positive gains from the past.
In a selfless and patriotic move, President Biden abruptly ended his re-election campaign while endorsing his vice president, Kamala Harris, to replace him as the Democratic Party’s standard-bearer. On a post shared on X, Biden stated, “Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.” Kamala Harris, along with her running mate, will offer the nation a new generation of leadership while at the same time giving continuity to the successes of the Biden/Harris administration. Most importantly, a Harris victory would be a severe blow to Trumpism and all it stands for. The writer is the author of the book “God Bless Our Divided America.”
David W. Marshall
Ben Jealous
We can’t let our guard down against COVID-19
Summertime in Virginia: Temps are sweltering and show no sign of abating. Children are out of school and bored. Various fruits and vegetables are ripe for the picking, even in this hellish heat.
And cases of COVID-19, the scourge of our nation and the planet, tick up around the Commonwealth. It’s become a rite of the season, as common as antsy kids, foreverrunning air conditioning and respites at the beach.
We should get used to the seasonal increase in infections and protect ourselves as best as possible. That means: boosting our vaccines – or getting an initial one if we’ve stubbornly refused; practicing good hygiene, including washing our hands frequently; staying home if sick; and testing to detect infections.
The situation now, thankfully, is far from the overwhelming terror at the height of the pandemic that began in early 2020. COVID-19 killed more than 1.13 million
people in the United States and infected more than 104 million, or less than one-third of the U.S. population.
Still, “There are people severely sick from COVID-19,” Heather Harmon-Sloan, the COVID-19 unit lead for the Virginia Department of Health, told me this last week. “We still see people pass away.”
The state listed no coronavirus deaths in the weeks ending June 29 and July 6. That contrasted, though, with
Roger Chesley
40 deaths reported across Virginia in the week ending Feb. 10, according to the health department.
A local daily newspaper recently reported COVID-19 numbers rose in June and that the new FLiRT variant is circulating. The COVID-19 “parent” variant is SARS-CoV-2.
On June 8, the state’s confirmed cases numbered 638, and they had nearly doubled by July 6. Those numbers, though, were dwarfed by the total in December, when 5,600 cases were reported in Virginia. The newest variant has the same symptoms of upper respiratory
problems, Harmon-Sloan said. Antiviral treatments should be effective.
A troubling sign is the total number of people who got the 2023-24 vaccine in Virginia, she said. A new vaccine for 2024-25 will target the FLiRT variant and probably will come out in September. The current one, though, is still available for those who didn’t get vaccinated.
Some 91% of Virginians has gotten at least one dose of the vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Seventy-seven percent were considered fully vaccinated as of May 2023. About1.34 million Virginians got the latest COVID-19 vaccine, according to state records. (The state population is 8.7 million.)
“In order to update and restore people’s protection and immunity,” Harmon-Sloan told me, “it’s important to get the latest vaccine.”
The news on infections and vaccinations was released about the same time the agency announced that a long COVID surveillance projec t , which began in October in the Central Virginia Health District, would now be open to all residents
in Southwest Virginia. Long COVID means someone is still sick at least two months after getting COVID-19.
Participants must live in the following state health districts: Roanoke city and Alleghany, Central Virginia, Cumberland Plateau, LENOWISCO, Mount Rogers, New River, Pittsylvania-Danville, Southside or West Piedmont.
“We’re just hoping to better understand how long COVID has affected people in their daily lives,” said Cali Anderson, senior epidemiologist for the Central Health District.
“And identify opportunities to improve long COVID resources.”
Symptoms can include trouble breathing, coughing and feeling weak and tired.
The project has so far detected 141 cases of long COVID and fewer than five deaths in the Central Health District, which comprises Lynchburg city and the counties of Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford and Campbell.
U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine has publicly announced he has the condition. The Democrat has co-sponsored legislation to support long COVID-19 sufferers.
In February, the National Institutes of Health announced
it was redirecting $515 million in federal money for the RECOVER initiative. The nationwide research program targets long COVID. The CDC says one in nine adults in the country who have had COVID-19 continue to suffer from long COVID. Nowadays, it’s comforting to go out to stores, restaurants and places of worship and feel we’re not taking our lives in our hands. Mask-wearing is mostly optional – and doesn’t cause controversy, thankfully. COVID-19 is now considered “endemic,” what the CDC calls “the amount of a particular disease that is usually present in a community.”
But COVID-19 has not disappeared. People age 65 and over and with certain medical conditions must continue to monitor the latest news and updates. Be smart. Get the vaccine. Realize others might refuse – and could be infected. Be cognizant when in poorly ventilated buildings. We’re in a much better place today than in 2020 and 2021. Let’s work to keep it that way. This commentary originally appeared on VirginiaMercury. com.
Coco Gauff, LeBron James flag bearers for team USA at Olympics ceremony
The Associated Press
Tennis star Coco Gauff will join LeBron James as a flag bearer for the U.S. Olympic team at Friday’s opening ceremony.
Gauff, the reigning U.S. Open champion, is set to make her Olympic debut at the Paris Games and will be the first tennis athlete to carry the U.S. flag. She and James were chosen by Team USA athletes.
“I mean, for me, the Olympics is a top priority. I would say equal to the Grand Slams. I wouldn’t put it above or below, just because I’ve never played before. This is my first time,” Gauff said earlier this year. “Obviously, I always want to do well, try to get a medal.”
Gauff and James, the 39-year-old leading scorer in NBA history, both compete in sports that are outside the traditional Olympic world and get attention year-round, not just every four years.
The 20-year-old Gauff made the American team for the Tokyo Games three years ago as a teenager but had to sit out those Olympics because she tested positive for COVID-19 right before she was supposed to fly
By Doug Feinberg
The Associated Press
There were times Brittney Griner thought she would never wear a USA Basketball jersey again.
The two-time Olympic gold medalist was sitting in a Russian prison in 2022, sentenced to nine years in jail for drug possession and smuggling. Playing for her country again was a far-fetched idea at that point. Ten months later she was free after a highprofile prisoner exchange Now, 19 months later, she’s suiting up for the U.S. in the Paris Games — her first trip to play overseas since returning from Russia.
Griner, wearing her No. 15 USA jersey before the team played at the All-Star Game on Saturday, said she gets chills now just putting it on.
to Japan. Now Gauff, who is based in Florida, is a Grand Slam title winner in singles and doubles. She won her first major championship in New York in September, defeating Aryna Sabalenka in the singles final of the U.S. Open, then added her first Grand Slam doubles trophy at the French Open this June
“It means everything to me honestly,” Griner told The Associated Press in an interview. “For me to now have the honor to wear it again and potentially win gold is icing on the cake for everything.”
Griner had gone to Russia to play basketball and supplement her WNBA income. She had done it for years. No more. The 33-year-old said she will only play in America unless USA Basketball asks her to play. Griner has dedicated a lot of time representing playing with the U.S. team and feels 100% safe when she’s with them.
“It’s different, we are so protected by the staff around us,” she said. “It’s different, it’s way different. The level of comfortability and security we have right now makes it a lot easier.”
It’s been a busy few weeks
Chesterfield County unveils inaugural sports hall of fame class
In a landmark moment for local sports history, the Chesterfield County Sports Hall of Fame, presented by Virginia Credit Union, has announced its inaugural class of inductees. The selection committee, faced with an overwhelming response of over 40 nominations, chose to honor 10 individuals who have made significant contributions to the county’s rich sporting legacy. The 2024 inaugural class represents a diverse range of sports and achievements.
“The
alongside Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic.
The same clay courts at Roland Garros used for the French Open will be where matches are going to be held for the Paris Olympics. The draw to set the brackets is Thursday, and play begins on Saturday. Gauff is seeded No. 2 in singles,
for Griner as her wife, Cherelle, gave birth to their son, Bash, on July 8. Griner said it was tough saying goodbye to him for a few weeks.
“We got some really cool photos before I left,” she said. “He doesn’t know anything right now, but one day it will be cool for him to have that footage. There’s so much footage.”
She’ll have her USA Basketball family to lean on while in Paris. Her teammates and coaches are thrilled to have her back playing for the U.S.
“That is something when you think about it. Think outside the Olympics, someone’s personal experience and what she went through and still continues to go through,” U.S. Coach Cheryl Reeve said. “We were all thinking of BG when she was away and we didn’t know if this moment would be possible. I’m thrilled
matching her current WTA ranking behind No. 1 Iga Swiatek of Poland, and will be among the medal favorites. She and her usual doubles partner, Jessica Pegula, are seeded No. 1 in women’s doubles. And Gauff and the highest-ranked American man, Taylor Fritz, were seeded No. 2 in
mixed doubles when those pairings were announced Wednesday.
“I’m not putting too much pressure on it, because I really want to fully indulge in the experience,” Gauff said about her Olympic debut. “Hopefully I can have the experience multiple times in my lifetime, (but) I’ll treat it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
for her personally and thrilled for our basketball team.” Griner got to spend a few minutes at practice on Friday
and attended her first WNBA game back in Los Angeles — his hometown. He was moved that Griner wanted to represent the U.S. again.
“Really getting chills just thinking about it,” he told the AP. “Where she was, and where she is now, to see her positivity and spirit it’s really compelling. Great to see that.” Emhoff will lead the U.S. delegation to the closing ceremonies of the Olympic Games, which is the night of the women’s gold medal game that Griner and her teammates expect to be playing in.
“Hopefully, everything goes the way we want it to go and that anthem’s playing,” Griner said of the U.S. winning an eighth straight Olympic gold medal. “It’s going to be way more emotional this time.”
The Metropolitan Junior Baseball League will host its 33rd Annual Inner City Classic and Black World Series on July 30 in Washington, D.C. The event starts 6 p.m. at Maury Wills Field, following the 20th Annual Bobby Bonds Memorial Symposium at the Congressional Auditorium on Capitol Hill.
On Wednesday, several events will take place, including a skills showcase, the Mike Berry Home Run Derby, the Opening Ceremony, and pool play games. The skills showcase, a baseball skills display, will run from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Highland Springs High School. The highlight of the day is the featured game between the Richmond MJBL All Stars and the Freedom Farm All Stars from Nassau, Bahamas, for the 19-and-under division. This game will start at 7 p.m. at the Diamond.
Pool play games will involve six divisions: 10-and-under, 12-and-under, 14and-under, 16-and-under, 19-and-under, and an 18-and-under women’s softball championship. Participating states include Virginia, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina and Washington, D.C.
Free Press staff report
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association has released its 2024 football preseason conference poll, with Virginia State University claiming the top spot. This marks a significant improvement for the Trojans, who were picked to finish fifth last season but landed in third place behind Virginia Union and Fayetteville State.
VUU’s football team has been selected to finish second in the CIAA for the 2024 season, as announced at the 2024 CIAA Football Media Day on Wednesday, July 17, in Salem, Va.
VUU Coach Alvin Parker expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I want to thank God for all the accolades and putting us in the position that we are. But I’m a little more happy as to where we’re going.” Parker emphasized the team’s focus on “retention, recruiting and repeating” following last season’s success.
On Saturday, championship games will be played in the 10-and-under, 12-andunder, and 14-and-under divisions. The 16-and-under, 19-and-under, and women’s championships will conclude this year’s event on Sunday. The Ken Free Most Valuable Player Classic Scholarship will be awarded to the top 19-and-under player. The Charles “Pee Wee” Robinson Award will be presented to a participant from either the 12-and-under or 10-and-under division. All registered players will receive a free pass to Kings Dominion.
Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-Va., will host the symposium, which brings together experts to discuss how baseball and education can benefit African American communities. Rep. Donald Davis, D-N.C., a member of the Democratic Congressional Baseball Team, also will speak.
Justin Journette, a Norfolk State University player, will receive the HBCU Most Valuable Baseball Player award. Evan Smith, a former MJBL player, will
The Panthers boasted the conference’s top defense last year, with Coach Edward Pointer earning Assistant Coach of the Year honors. Notably, the team did not concede a single rushing touchdown during the regular season. Coach Parker highlighted that nine starters from that formidable defense will be returning for the 2024 campaign. The preseason rankings for the top six teams are: 1. Virginia State 2. Virginia Union
Fayetteville State
Johnson C. Smith 5. Bowie State 6. Winston-Salem State
Virginia State’s challenging schedule includes matchups against all five teams ranked directly below them, setting the stage for an exciting season.
Due to the reduction in schools sponsoring football to 11, the CIAA has eliminated its Northern and Southern divisions. The
present a donation from his nonprofit, Equal Shot 4 All. Symposium panelists include former MLB player and manager Dusty Baker, Washington Nationals minority owner Paxton Baker, and Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Commissioner Sonja Stills. Charlie Wells, who played catcher for the Philadelphia Stars in the Negro Leagues, commented on the event’s significance.
“There are no African American catchers in the majors today. It’s extremely disappointing to see the steadfast decline of our young people in the game,” Wells said. “I’m pleased that MJBL is going to Capitol Hill to champion this issue and make the public aware of their awesome work in the black community.” Wells will have two great-nephews from Virginia participating in the Classic.
Founded in Richmond, in 1966, MJBL is one of the oldest African Americanowned inner-city youth baseball leagues in the U.S. The organization aims to provide opportunities for primarily socially and economically disadvantaged youth through educational, athletic and cultural enrichment programs.
The symposium and games are free to the public.
two teams with the best overall conference records will now face off in the CIAA Championship Game, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 16, in Salem. Individual players also have received recognition. Virginia State’s Bruno Onwuazor was named to the preseason All-CIAA team, building on his SecondTeam All-CIAA honors from last season. Meanwhile, Virginia Union saw eight players receive Preseason All-CIAA honors, including Kalen Carver (tight end), Jamaree Moyer and Mathias Nielsen (offensive line), Jada Byers (running back), Brady Myers (place kicker), Isaac Anderson (defensive line), Shamar Graham (linebacker), and Larry Hackey (punt returner). With Virginia State aiming to
with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff. He and Vice President Kamala Harris met with Griner when she returned to the U.S.
Justin Journette
Denny Hamlin Johnny Grubb James Farrior
AP photo/Kin Cheung
United States forward LeBron James waves to the crowd July 20 after the end of an exhibition basketball game
AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin
Brittney Griner, left, Diana Taurasi, and Chelsea Gray, of Team USA, walk on the court July 20 prior to a WNBA All-Star basketball game against Team WNBA in Phoenix.
AP Photo/Jean-Francois Badias
Coco Gauff plays a shot June 6 during the semifinal match of the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros in Paris. She will be the first tennis athlete to carry the flag.
Personality: Jeremy Scott Hoffman, Ph.D.
Spotlight on chair of Livability Committee for The Greater Scott’s Addition Association
Jeremy Scott Hoffman is a forceful climate justice advocate for Scott’s Addition and the city of Richmond. He credits his father with sparking his interest in conservationism, although he says the notion of creating better spaces has been in the background of every aspect of his life.
“My dad taught me how day-to-day experiences are directly tied to the environment around you,” he explains. “I’m interested in hiking, traveling to beautiful spaces and seeing the world as connected spaces.”
Born in the Chicago suburbs and raised in rural Iowa with cornfields across the street, Hoffman believes he’s the quintessential Mid-Westerner. He came to Richmond in 2016 and met his wife, a Toronto native, the following year. Hoffman relishes the idea of making Scott’s Addition his lifetime home.
It may be fate because Scott County, where he grew up in Iowa, was named after Gen. Scott, for whom Scott’s Addition also is named. When he moved to Scott’s Addition, he didn’t realize he would be near some of the best biking infrastructure and neighborhoods with connected sidewalk networks and restaurants. He enjoys walking, biking and utilizing public transportation.
Hoffman’s passion for a greener Scott’s Addition stems from his work for climate justice at Groundwork USA. This national nonprofit is dedicated to promoting the natural and built environment of low-resource communities, areas that often lack the resources and infrastructure needed to support a healthy environment. He also teaches Planetary Health at the University of Richmond and
works with the Urban Planning Department at Virginia Commonwealth University. Meet the passionate climate scientist, conservationist, and advocate for green spaces whose professional and volunteer work directly impacts his neighborhood and this week’s Personality, Jeremy S. Hoffman: Volunteer position: Chair of the Livability Committee for the Greater Scott’s Addition Association.
Occupation: Director of Climate Justice and Impact, Groundwork USA; Affiliate Faculty at VCU and UR. Date and place of birth: Oct. 1988 in Hinsdale, Ill.
Where I live now: Richmond.
Education: Doctorate, Oregon State University, 2016; bachelor’s with distinction, Augustana College, 2011.
Family: My wife, Catherine, my dog Betty, my very cool inlaws, my older brother, Joshua, my older sister, Tiffany, my four step-siblings Gretchen, Tim, Josh, and Jessie (and their families), my Mom and stepdad Laura and Ed, and my Dad and stepmom Marty and Cheryl. Maternal grandparents, Deserre and Henry.
The Greater Scott’s Addition Association is: The organization that represents the Scott’s Addition Historic District and the Greater Scott’s Addition region.
Mission: Our mission is to be the collective voice and driving force of Greater Scott’s Addition. Through advocacy, information, and community engagement, we aim to enhance the neighborhood experience. When and why founded: It was formed in the early 2000s by a group of long-
time neighborhood business owners and helped to get the neighborhood’s historic district designation.
Scott’s Addition is: The Scott’s Addition historic district is bounded by the 195 overpass to the west, Arthur Ashe Boulevard to the east, Broad Street to the south, and the CSX railroad to the north.
When did Scott’s Addition begin to evolve into a hot place to live, work and play: In the early 2010s when Isley Brewing Company and the first few apartments opened. Since then, it has grown upward at an extremely fast pace.
When and why I chose Scott’s Addition as my neighborhood: I don’t think there’s a better neighborhood in Richmond for being able to live car-lite near so many amenities and other great neighborhoods. It’s been almost 10 years, and I couldn’t imagine moving to a different part of Richmond. The GRSAA Livability Com-
mittee is: A subcommittee of the GSAA board that engages in the design, execution, and oversight of advocacy and action projects for increasing access to neighborhood green space and bike/ pedestrian infrastructure while promoting a litterfree neighborhood. Why is it necessary: Scott’s Addition has very few public, free spaces for people to just exist in. For all its attractions, you basically are required to spend money to enjoy them! We think the definition of a livable neighborhood includes having several free, open green spaces that you can use for a variety of things. So, our committee really came out of our residents’ and businesses’ desire for more green in a neighborhood that is nearly full of gray.
Recent and future projects: The Rosemoore Pocket Park (2020), The Science Museum ProtoPath (2021), West Broad Street Green & Pollinator Park (2021), Moore St. Alley Cleanup (2023), West Broad Street Pop-Up Park (2024) and the helping communicate the installation of the bike lane network (2023-2024) have all been recent successes. We’re looking forward to seeing the rest of the ProtoPath completed along with safety improvements at the Leigh Street crossing into Movieland, we’re excited about helping with the pedestrian/bike connectivity conversation with the Diamond District & Arthur Ashe Blvd / CSX Overpass bridge project, the rollout of another $2M in infrastructure investment in the neighborhood by DPW, and hopefully making the Pop-
Up Park permanently open to people and closed to cars!
I initially got involved with the Greater Scott’s Addition Association: Through advocacy around our urban heat island work, which showed that the neighborhood was among the hottest in the city during heat waves. I was asked to join the board after I brought several VCU student projects to bear on our goals around tree canopy and green space improvements. I was interested in having a direct impact on my neighborhood using the data I was collecting through our projects at the Museum and VCU.
No. 1 goal and strategy as chair of the Livability Committee: Have a clear vision of what’s possible but be willing to roll with unexpected changes and obstacles.
Biggest challenge: How to effectively and consistently maintain a two-way conversation about a changing and evolving neighborhood with a large, growing, and high turnover population of residents in the neighborhood.
Scott’s Addition and trees, heat and the City of Richmond: These places tended to be poorer and communities of color, but also neighborhoods like Scott’s Addition. We’ve since found that most heat illness responses by the ambulance go to these hotter spots, they are called around 3 to 5p.m. (the warmest part of the day), and a disproportionate amount of these emergencies are experienced by Black residents. Extreme heat is a clear environmental justice issue in Richmond.
No. 1 joy I have witnessed through the Livability Committee: Seeing people use and
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enjoy the places you’ve worked with others to make is a really special feeling – especially when you know what it looked like before you did anything. Ways to get involved with GRSAA and the Livability Committee: Come to our bimonthly public meetings, join our neighborhood newsletter, and reach out to livability@ scottsaddition.com
Upcoming events: We’ll be hosting a mayoral forum later into the fall.
How I start the day: I start my day with a coffee and breakfast, followed by a bit of movement/ stretching/calisthenics or a bike ride to warm the body up and get a little sweat going.
The three words that best describe me: Determined, goofy, curious.
Best late-night snack: Dill popcorn.
A quote that inspires me: “Our species needs, and deserves, a citizenry with minds wide awake and a basic understanding of how the world works.”
– Carl Sagan
The best thing my parents ever taught me: My dad taught me how to observe the natural world and predict outcomes from environmental indicators, which was a fundamental skill that helped me through all of my academic work.
Book that influenced me the most: “The 99% Invisible City” by Roman Mars and Kurt Kohlstedt. Everything around you has been designed in some way. This book puts all of that – the good and the bad – into perspective in a really compelling narrative that makes it feel like you’re discovering unknown secrets.
Next goal: Finalize this semester’s syllabus at University of Richmond!
New book explores the Black Appalachian experience
By Sian Wilkerson
Author Christopher A. Brooks has spent his career spotlighting often overlooked stories from the African continental and Diaspora experience.
His new book, “Tales of Koehler Hollow: An African American Family in Rural Appalachia, documents the true story of a formerly enslaved woman and her descendants in Southwest Virginia.
The story, as told by co-author Naomi Hodge-Muse, begins with Amy Finney, who in 1890 purchased a portion of land on which she had worked while in bondage. The area, located in modern-day Henry County, came to be known as Koehler, and the Koehler Hollow homestead remains in the family today.
a professor of anthropology at Virginia Commonwealth University. “In many ways it is a biography as well as anthropology. We tell the story of the human experience.”
“This was an opportunity that I gladly embraced. That is to tell the story of a woman who had been enslaved,” said Brooks
Brooks speaks about the origins of “Koehler Hollow” and how Finney’s family story offers a lens through which to better understand the experience of Black Appalachians. What drew you to the story of Koehler Hollow? In 2016, [HodgeMuse] took me to an African American cemetery in Henry County called Mountain Top Cemetery, where there were formerly enslaved Africans whose sites of interment were marked by a single brick or stone. Before that visit, I had read about that kind of thing, but I’d never actually seen it. At the time of [Finney’s] death, her son, George Washington Finney, put a marker at his mother’s interment site.
Somehow, standing there, looking at that marker, I thought, “This is an opportunity for me to tell the story of a formerly enslaved woman who, after being emancipated, worked hard to purchase the land on which she had formerly been enslaved. She bought the land, and her son cultivated it and expanded it to several acres. That land remains in the family today.” That’s what drew me to the story, and it also drew me to the family’s saga. There’s a bigger picture, too, right?
I also wanted to call attention to the conditions under which rural African American Appalachians worked. When we think of Appalachia, we think West Virginia, we think of hillbillies – but we don’t think of the African American Appalachian experience, which is now very loud and proud. Telling that story was a motivation of mine as well.
It was very different from if you grew up in an urban area, with these rights or those
Richmond announces finalists for inaugural BLK RVA Community Awards
Free Press staff report
The Richmond Region Tourism Foundation has unveiled the finalists for the first BLK RVA Community Awards, celebrating individuals and businesses that bolster Black tourism in the Richmond area. The awards ceremony will be presented 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, Radio personality “Miss Community” Clovia Lawrence will host the event at the Hippodrome Theater. Public voting for the awards is open until Aug. 4 at 11:59 p.m. Residents and supporters can cast their votes on the official BLK RVA website. Finalists for the Rising Community ImpactAward and the Rooted Community Impact Award were announced recently.
The Rising Community Impact Award, sponsored by Wells Fargo, recognizes Black businesses and initiatives that have recently made their mark on Richmond’s cultural scene.
Finalists in this category include the Arthur Ashe Boulevard
Initiative, Ashley Williams of BareSOUL, Brandi Brown of Ms. Bee’s Juice Bar, Liberated Arts Foundation, Luise ‘Cheezi’ Farmer of Black Pride RVA, Mike King Biz, RVA Explore Tours, RVA Hot Wheelz and RVA’s Black Farmers Market. The Rooted Community Impact Award, presented by Altria Client Services, honors established Black businesses and individuals who have been pillars of the community for over a decade. Finalists in this category include Duron Chavis of Sankofa Orchard, Janine Bell of Elegba Folklore Society, Amiri and Cindy Richardson-Keys of The ARTS Community Center, James Holland (Chesterfield County Supervisor), Ron Carey of Tilt Creative + Production, Randy Cooper of Richmond Heritage Federal Credit Union, historian Elvatrice Parker Belsches and Kelli Lemon of Like the Fruit, LLC.
The BLK RVA Community Awards aim to highlight the contributions of Black-owned businesses and initiatives to
Richmond’s tourism sector and overall cultural landscape. For more information about the awards or to purchase tickets to the ceremony, see visitblkrva.com
rights – it was very different. I don’t want to suggest that they were broken down or hanging their heads low, but it was still a very different experience from many others who live outside of that region.
You’ve written several
books about more well-known figures. How did this process compare?
When it comes to some of the better-known names that I’ve written biographies about, there was a research record and papers I could consult. But this was a very different process, in that I had to go to individuals who were around. Naomi Hodge-Muse had also done considerable research before she and I began this work.
Although Amy Finney was the matriarch, the real heroine of the “Tales of Koehler Hollow” was Naomi Hodge-Muse’s grandmother, Dollie Mariah Finney. It was Grandma Dollie, as she was known, who had a photographic memory and remembered what the formerly enslaved Amy had passed on to her. More than 65 years ago, the story was passed on to Naomi, and she remembers every single thing that her grandmother passed on to her now.
What are you hoping readers take away from this story?
I want them to understand that there is not a monolithic Black or African American experience. It is varied. It is regional. It is certainly as varied as any other person’s experience in the collective experience of this country.
For African Americans in Appalachia, and specifically the Finney family, there was a good deal of pride in who they were. There was a good deal of emphasis on family. There was what was called the Finney family grit, and that grit could work to their advantage in some instances and to their disadvantage in other instances.
Additionally, I want readers to have a new awe and appreciation for the Appalachian experience and to understand that it was varied – and that people of color, specifically African Americans, were enmeshed in it. Not only did they play a role, but are very proud to be from that region today. This story originally appeared on VCU News.
Local Lego Master to Lead Workshop for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond
Free Press staff report
The Lego Group and a local contestant on
Fox’’s “Lego Masters” Ben Edlavitch are teaming up to bring a special workshop to members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond on Monday, July 29.
Edlavitch, a University of Virginia student who gained recognition on the “Lego Masters” series, will lead a “Build the Change” workshop at the North Side club. This interactive program, designed by the Lego Group, aims to empower children to reimagine and build a more sustainable future through play.
Lego Manufacturing Virginia will be on hand to support the event.
The workshop will focus on addressing real-world challenges through creative thinking, with participants using Lego bricks to construct ideas for creating a more biodiverse environ-
“We’re proud to support play-based learning through local nonprofits like the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Richmond. Our goal is to empower these young members with new skills to reimagine their world through our ‘Build the Change’program,” said Preben Elnef, vice president of the Lego Group.
Sean Miller, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond, added, “We’re thrilled to offer this unique opportunity to our members. It’s a perfect blend of creativity, problem solving, and fun that aligns with our mission to enable young people to reach their full potential.”
The event, scheduled for 9:30 a.m. at the North Side Club, 3601 Branch Ave., is part of the Lego Group’s grant funding initiative for the
Ben Edlavitch
Christopher Brooks
Book cover courtesy Unsung Voices Books Christopher A. Brooks’ book, “Tales of Koehler Hollow,” highlights the true story of Amy Finney and her descendants.
Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press
Proud Aloud
Festivalgoers feel the vibes July 20 as singer and musician
Teshia LaSane, top right, performs at the annual Black Pride RVA at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Right, Melanin Monroe, the event’s MC, shows off a stunning pink outfit.
Mississippi’s new Episcopal bishop is first woman, first Black person in role
The Associated Press
The new bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi was formally installed Saturday, and she is the first woman and first Black person to hold the post.
The Rev. Dorothy Sanders Wells was elected bishop in February and has been in the leadership role since May. She was ordained and consecrated by the Most Rev. Michael Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church.
Wells succeeds former Bishop Brian Seage, who was elected in 2014 and had been in the role since the 2015 retirement of his predecessor.
The Mississippi diocese has about 17,600 members in 87
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, trailblazing Texas Democrat, dies at 74
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
Democratic Congress -
woman Sheila Jackson Lee, one of the longest-serving members of the Texas delegation died at the age of 74 on Friday, July 19, 2024. In June, Jackson Lee announced her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, yet she showed little indication of letting it interfere with her plans to run for a 16th term this November.
The fiery congresswoman disclosed her diagnosis in a written statement shortly after winning renomination in a fiercely contested Democratic primary. Known for her unwavering commitment to social justice, she was a fervent advocate for reparations for African Americans and a vocal critic of the twice impeached and convicted felon former President Trump. Jackson Lee’s legislative achievements are significant and wideranging. She played a crucial role in the passage of the Violence Against Women Act. She was a senior House Committee member on the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget Committees. She was the first female ranking member of the Judiciary Subcommittee for Crime and Federal Government Surveillance, serving as Chair during the 117th Congress.
congregations.
Wells is a native of Mobile, Ala., and studied vocal performance at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn. She earned a law degree from the University of Memphis and practiced law for 18 years in Memphis before becoming a priest.
She earned a master’s of divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary and a doctorate of ministry from Emory University.
Wells told the Clarion Ledger that she does not focus on being the first woman and first Black person to become the Episcopal bishop of Mississippi.
She was previously rector of St. George’s Episcopal Church in Germantown, Tenn., and chaplain
American RISING Act. She also introduced the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant Reauthorization and Bullying Prevention and Intervention Act and the Federal Prison Bureau Nonviolent Offender Relief Act
A staunch supporter of women and children, Jackson Lee championed the Paycheck Fairness Act and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. She authored the Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Research and Education Act Jackson Lee was widely recognized for her effectiveness and influence. Congressional Quarterly named her one of the 50 most effective members of Congress, and U.S. News and World Report listed her among the 10 most influential legislators in the U.S. House of Representatives. She was a founder, member and chair of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus and the Congressional Children’s Caucus. She was chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Energy Braintrust and the Justice Reform Task Force co-chair.
OURCHURCH’S ANNIVERSARY
Among her notable legislative efforts were the Sentencing Reform Act, the George Floyd Law Enforcement Trust and Integrity Act The RAISE Act The Fair Chance for Youth Act the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act Kalief’s Law, and the
of the church’s preschool. She had been there since 2013. She said leaders of the Mississippi Diocese are looking for ways to help small, rural congregations serve their communities.
“It is a priority to re-energize and get people excited again about all of the ministry opportunities that we have,” she said. Wells said she wants people to emphasize their faith in everyday interactions.
“If it ends when our time together ends on Sunday mornings, then we have already missed the message,” Wells said. “That should be the beginning. When we walk out the doors, that becomes the beginning of us showing that radical love and hospitality.”
Longtime Richmond pastor set to end 45-year ministry
Dr. Arthur M. Jones Sr., pastor of Triumphant Baptist Church in Richmond, recently announced his retirement after 45 years of service. His last day as pastor will be July 28.
Jones, a native of Buckingham County, assumed pastoral duties at Triumphant Baptist Church on Nov. 4, 1978, and was officially installed Jan. 21, 1979.
Dr. Arthur Jones Sr.
During his tenure, Jones led the church to actively participate in several Baptist organizations, including the Progressive National Baptist Convention and the Baptist General Convention of Virginia. He also spearheaded community outreach initiatives such as CARITAS and Mega Sports Camp for area youths. Under Jones’ leadership, Triumphant Baptist Church has seen growth in membership and expanded its ministries, including the establishment of a bus ministry.
Jones holds multiple degrees, including a B.A. in History Education from Virginia Union University and a master’s in rehabilitation counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University. He received his doctorate of divinity in 1977 and a master’s of Divinity in 1981, both from the Virginia Union University School of Theology. Prior to his full-time ministry, Jones had a career in education, retiring as a principal from the Virginia Department of Correctional Education.
Jones is married to Mary L. Ponder Jones and has two children, one granddaughter, two grandsons and one great-grandson.
A Yale University alumna, Jackson Lee earned her bachelor’s in political science with honors and later received her law degree from the University of Virginia Law School. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Elwyn Lee, an administrator at the University of Houston; her two children, Jason Lee, a Harvard University graduate, and Erica Lee, a Duke University graduate and member of the Harris County School Board; and her two grandchildren, twins Ellison Bennett Carter and Roy Lee Carter III.
AP photo/Rogelio V. Solis
The Rev. Dorothy Sanders Wells, a native of Mobile, Ala., sits on a stage at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School Campus in Ridgeland, Miss., Friday, July 19, before being formally installed as the first woman and first black person to hold the post of bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi.
AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, Pool, File
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, speaks during a House Judiciary Committee meeting, Dec. 13, 2019, on Capitol Hill. Lee died Friday, July 19, 2024, after battling pancreatic cancer, according to her chief of staff.
vcU athletes nominated for NcAA Woman of the Year
Two
for the NCAA Woman of the Year Award. Field hockey goalkeeper Sheridan Messier and track and field sprinter Simone Pierre represent VCU in the running for one of the NCAA’s most prestigious honors.
Messier, who earned a master’s in chemistry, was named to the AllAtlantic 10 Second Team and All-
Academic Team. She posted a .747 save percentage in 2023, ranking 16th nationally with a 1.23 goalsagainst average. Pierre, who graduated with a bachelor’s in health, physical education & exercise science, was named the 2024 A-10 Indoor Most Outstanding Track Performer. She won conference titles in the indoor 200m and 400m, and was part of the champi-
virGiNiA: iN THe circUiT coUrT For THe ciTY oF ricHMoND DoroTHY cUrTiS, Plaintiff v. ricKY D. WeBB, Defendant. case No.: cL24-2192JSM orDer oF PUBLicATioN
The object of this suit is for the petitioner to obtain a divorce from defendant. It is ORDERED that the defendant, Ricky D. Webb, whose last known address was 6717 Carnation Street, Apt. D, Richmond, Virginia 23225, and whose whereabouts are now appear here on or before the 5th day of September, 2024 at 9 a.m.to protect his interests.
I ask for this: Susan Gerber, Counsel for Plaintiff 206 DeSota Drive Richmond, Virginia 23229 (804) 741-3438 Email: dagny44@aol.com VSB #30901
virGiNiA:
iN THe circUiT coUrT For THe coUNTY oF HANover PreSToN MiLLS, Plaintiff v. DoNNA MiLLS, Defendant. case No.: cL24001892-00 orDer oF PUBLicATioN
The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony from the defendant on the ground of living separate and apart
of living separate and apart without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months.
It is ORDERED that the defendant, who is a nonresident, appear here on or before the 16th day of August, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Law Office of Dorothy M. Eure, P.C. Dorothy M. Eure, Plaintiff’s Attorney VSB# 27724 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667 cUSToDY
virGiNiA: iN THe circUiT coUrT For THe coUNTY oF HANover iN re: LoGAN ZAHArA SiriNiTY JAcKSoN cA-24000010 orDer oF PUBLicATioN
The object of this suit is to obtain the adoption of the above-named child by the Petitioners, Ronnie Damron and Summer Damron. It appearing by affidavit filed according to law that the father of the child, Cody DeMarcus Jackson, cannot be located and his whereabouts are unknown, and that due diligence has been used to ascertain his location without effect, it is therefore ORDERED that the said Cody DeMarcus Jackson appear on or before August 16, 2024, at the Hanover Circuit Court, and do what is necessary to protect his interests. NoTice To coDY DeMArcUS JAcKSoN TAKE NOTICE that on April 26, 2024, Ronnie Damron and Summer Damron filed a petition in the Circuit Court of Hanover County to adopt Logan Zahara Sirinity Jackson. You are required to appear and protect your interests on or before August 16, 2024. I ASK FOR THIS: Michael P. Tittennary, Esq. (VSB #79142) Tittermary Law, PLC 9097 Atlee Station Road,
onship 4x100m relay team outdoors. The A-10’s 17 nominees tie a league record set in 2023, representing nine sports across 13 member institutions. Conference officials will select two finalists to represent the A-10 in the national competition. The NCAA will announce the top 30 honorees and eventual winner this fall.
case No. cL 24001498-00 orDer oF PUBLicATioN The object of this suit is to: OBTAIN A NAME CHANGE FOR MINOR Jade Alexandria Rees. It is ORDERED that Amber Lynn Sheets and Zackery Lowell Rees appear at the above named court and protect his/her interests on or before August 19, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.
virGiNiA: HANover circUiT coUrT AMBer BAYNe vALADeZ v roNALD cHriSToPHer TALLeY case No. cL 24001822-00 orDer oF PUBLicATioN
CIAA unveils 2024 football broadcast schedule
Free Press staff report
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association announces its broadcast lineup for the upcoming 2024 football season, featuring games on HBCU GO, a streaming service dedicated to Historically black colleges and universities, and the conference’s own CIAA Sports Network.
HBCU GO will televise six CIAA games live, including the season’s crown jewel — the 2024 CIAA Football Championship in Salem on Nov. 16.
The regular season coverage kicks off Sept. 21 with Winston-Salem State facing Virginia State. The schedule continues with four more key matchups: Oct. 5: Fayetteville State hosts
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Bowie State for Military Appreciation Day Oct. 19: Bluefield State visits
Bowie State Oct. 26: Johnson C. Smith travels to Winston-Salem State Nov. 9: Defending champion Virginia Union takes on archrival Virginia State All regular season games on HBCU GO are slated for 1 p.m. kickoffs. The championship game, set for a 3 p.m. start Nov. 16 at Salem Stadium, will feature the top two regular season finishers.
Football fans won’t miss any action, as every conference game will also be available on the CIAA Sports Network. Local broadcast information will be released later.
AMAZON.COM SERVICES LLC, an Amazon.com company
Preferred:
edition Write and edit sports articles, focusing on local high school and college athletics Develop story ideas and maintain a calendar of local sporting events
• Collaborate with other editors to ensure comprehensive local coverage
Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or related field
• Strong writing, editing, and organizational skills Knowledge of AP style and sports terminology Familiarity with Richmond area sports scene, especially high school and college levels
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends
• 2+ years of experience in sports journalism or editing
Understanding of the paper’s historical significance in the community Hours: Approximately 20-25 hours per week, schedule to be determined
