Richmond Free Press
Historic hospital’s fate hangs in balance as debate
By George Copeland Jr.
Plans for the partial demolition of Richmond Community Hospital, the city’s first Black hospital, were met with mixed reactions last Thursday as Virginia Union University and developers unveiled details of a multimillion-dollar housing project during a community meeting.
“If the community sees that building destroyed, it would be devastating,” said Viola Baskerville of the Save Community Hospital group. “The community is not against development, it is against demolition.”
The renderings included plans for incorporating the hospital building, first opened in the 1930s to provide medical care to African Americans. The building’s front, cornerstone and sign would be part of one of two six-story buildings at the site. A
VUU officials and developers presented housing information and renderings during a community discussion at the Claude G. Perkins Living and Learning Center to a crowd of about 100 people, leading to condemnation and celebration from some attendees.
By George Copeland Jr.
Amid escalating controversy and widespread criticism, both inside and outside city government, Mayor Levar M. Stoney took the stage at City Hall on Wednesday morning and made an effort to clear the air during a press conference.
“There have been some who said that we have not been transparent enough or visible enough,” Stoney said. “I wanted to call this press conference to answer your questions and to correct the record.”
The press conference followed months of reports of misconduct among City employees and questions about the meals tax, and the state of local government and its operations. Stoney, while conceding room for improvement in City government, defended his administration’s commitment to accountability and excellence and expressed frustration with criticism
of their work.
“Frankly, I’m tired of people shit-talking my city,” Stoney said. When it came to the misuse of procurement cards by City employees, Stoney stressed that these incidents accounted for 1% of the 336 employees that have one, the rest of whom are “in good standing.”
He also said that work to address meals tax issues is underway.
Stoney also celebrated the work of City employees, from the Procurement Department’s Achievement of Excellence in Procurement award from the National Procurement Institute to the work of the Department of Public Utilities to modernize operations and serve the public.
“Despite what some might say, our Procurement Department is top-notch,” Stoney said, “and I will not let the poor judgment of some define the work of all of these employees. Period.”
By Lindsey Bahr The Associated Press
While the press conference was meant to quell concerns over the state of City government, issues still remain. Stoney confirmed during a Q&A session that followed that multiple employees in the Department of Finance were recently fired but didn’t provide further specifics.
Stoney also challenged the characterization of City Hall as dysfunctional and in need of the major changes presented by candidates for City Council earlier in the week, seeing their comments as part of their campaigns for office.
“Richmond is better than it was a decade ago,” Stoney said. “Not just the people in general or just the city in general, City Hall is better than it was 10 years ago. That’s a fact.”
total of 200 housing units would be built in its place at the site, with bricks from the former hospital also incorporated into the construction.
An additional 100 housing units will be part of a mixed-use development project, called Gateway North, at the corner of Brook Road and Lombardy Street. The Brook/Overbrook project will be handled by the Steinbridge Group, while the Hanson Company will handle the Brook/Lombardy project.
Angela Patton has devoted her career to listening to the needs of young girls. Over a decade ago, the CEO of the nonprofit Girls For a Change and founder of Camp Diva Leadership Academy helped start a program in Richmond, that created a daddy-daughter dance for girls whose fathers are in prison. The “Date With Dad” idea wasn’t hers, however. It came from a 12-year-old Black girl.
The popularity of a 2012 TEDWomen talk about the initiative, which has been viewed over 1 million times, had many filmmakers clamoring to tell the story. But she didn’t feel anyone was right until Natalie Rae came along. “Natalie actually made the effort and put the energy in to come to visit with me, to meet the families that I have worked
These images show Aubrey Smith in a scene from
“Daughters.” Below from left, are Donte Brooks, Allan James, Leonard Smith and Jeffrey Saunders.
Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press
CoStar Group colleagues Keenan Winston, left, and Neri Stephenson team up with hundreds of volunteers to pack over 39,000 backpacks for Richmond Public Schools students during the seventh annual Ultimate Backpack Supply Drive on Aug. 8 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.
Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press
Regina H. Boone Richmond Free Press
Virginia Union University President Hakim J. Lucas responds to and the audience at a meeting about the school’s plans to build a housing development on the grounds of the former Richmond Community Hospital building. Left, a rendering of part of VUU’s multimillion-dollar plan to construct apartments on its campus. A part of the former Richmond Community Hospital is seen to the far left in this design. Courtesy VUU
Mayor Levar M. Stoney called a press conference Wednesday at City Hall to defend his record.
BHMVA earns national designation, secures $320K in grants
Free Press staff report
The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia has been designated as a member of the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights Network, a program that preserves stories of the Civil Rights Movement.
The museum, one of only two sites in Virginia with this designation, also recently received significant funding from several donors. This includes an anonymous $200,000 foundation gift, a $75,000 grant from Dominion Energy and a $45,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Richmond. These funds will support efforts to transform the museum’s original site into a center for scholarly research, including digitizing its collection.
The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia recently became a member of the African American Civil Rights Network, a program of the National Park Service.
“The African American Civil Rights Network designation highlights our ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the vital stories of the men and women who fought for civil rights and justice,” said Shakia Gullette Warren, executive director of BHMVA. “This designation from the National Park Service as well as the generous support from our donors are powerful affirmations of our mission and the value of our work.”
Dr. Monroe E. Harris Jr., president of the BHMVA board, added, “We are profoundly grateful for the unwavering support from our community and funding partners. Their belief in our mission and their generous contributions are a testament to the confidence they have in BHMVA’s ability to achieve its goals,” Harris said.
In September, the museum will open an exhibition titled “A Prescription for Change: Black Voices Shaping Healthcare in Virginia.” The exhibit will explore achievements of Black medical professionals and examine health care disparities in the Black community. For information on upcoming exhibitions and events, visit blackhistorymuseum.org.
Metro health districts promote vaccination during national awareness month
report
Free Press staff
As August marks National Immunization Awareness Month, the Richmond and Henrico health districts are launching a campaign to emphasize the critical role of vaccinations in public health.
Dr. Elaine Perry, director of RHHD, stressed the ongoing importance of immunizations.
“Vaccines remain one of our most effective tools in protecting individuals, families and communities from serious diseases,” she said. Perry also highlighted the upcoming respiratory virus season, urging residents to receive the latest flu and COVID-19 vaccines when available.
To facilitate access to vaccinations, RHHD is providing resources for residents to connect with health care providers. A directory of local primary care providers is available on the RHHD website.
The Virginia Vaccines for Children program offers free immunizations for eligible children under 19. Adults who are uninsured or underinsured can access free immunizations through the Virginia Vaccines for Adults program, though a small administrative fee may apply.
RHHD also is offering immunization appointments at its Cary Street, Henrico East, and Henrico West clinics. Residents can schedule by calling (804) 205-3501. The health districts emphasize that bilingual services in Spanish are available at all locations.
As the community prepares for the fall season, health officials encourage residents to stay to take proactive steps in maintaining their immunization schedules.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending on Saturday, Aug. 10, confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Virginia rose by 10% from the previous week, though new admissions remain low. Two deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported statewide during that time frame. Updated data on COVID-19 wastewater levels in the Greater Richmond area showed increases in Richmond and plateauing numbers in Henrico County as of the week of Sunday, Aug. 4. The Richmond and Henrico County health districts are offering testing at the following location:
• Wednesday, Aug. 21, 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 804230-2077.
• Whitcomb Court at 2106 Deforrest St., call 804-786-0555. For more information on testing sites visit vax.rchd.com.
The Virginia Department of Health testing locations are listed 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 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 or Moderna.
Waiting periods for additional vaccines 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 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 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
By George Copeland Jr.
Twelve of the 18 candidates running for Richmond City Council shared their vision for the city’s future at a candidate forum hosted by the Richmond Crusade for Voters on Monday evening, drawing a crowd of around 60 people to Third Street Bethel AME Church.
Eight newcomers and four incumbents answered questions collected from the community before the event, with journal
ist Antoinette Essa serving as moderator. Candidates Zac Walker, Katherine Jordan, Sarah Abubaker, Stephanie A. Lynch, Willie Hillard Jr. and Reva M. Trammell were absent.
With a wide range of questions on topics such as funding priorities, affordable housing and more, a focus on offering a new way forward for city politics versus continuing the work already in place repeatedly emerged.
“We need to do an overhaul at City Hall,” said Tavares Floyd, a candidate running for the 6th District seat. He participated in the forum alongside fellow council newcomers Andrew Breton, Paul Goldman, Kenya Gibson, Maria Carra Rose, Eric Sundberg, Frank Wilson Jr. and Stephanie Starling. “We need to have people that will stand up and do the right thing for the city. If it’s broken, we need to fix it.”
Recently, concerns have been raised over affordable housing, education funding and homeless services, as well as concerns about employee misconduct in the City. These issues created openings for new candidates to present alternative approaches. Others shared their personal experiences of City operations as residents, or promised to use the full power of City Council to effect positive change.
By contrast, many of those already serving on the City Council worked to balance acknowledging the failures of the
Free Press staff report
Henrico County Public Schools will roll out new multifunctional ID cards for all 50,000 students when classes resume Aug. 19, expanding on a transportation pilot program from last year.
The cards, to be used by students from pre-K through 12th grade, will streamline several daily school activities. Students will use them to ride buses, check out library materials, purchase meals, use vending machines and access specific technology services.
“We are thrilled to see how these student ID cards will positively impact our 50,000 students across Henrico County Public Schools,” SuperintendentAmy Cashwell said. “These cards will boost our mission to provide a safe and productive school environment where all our students can thrive.”
Free Press staff report
In June 2023, VPM unveiled plans for a cutting-edge headquarters in the heart of Downtown Richmond’s Historic Monroe Ward. On Thursday, community members and VPM representatives gathered at the future site at 15 E. Broad St. to celebrate the start of construction in a unique way— with a block party.
“We are enormously grateful to have had the opportunity to celebrate this major milestone in our project with our team, volunteers, neighbors and partners, who braved a tropical storm to be part of this historic moment for VPM, as well as the City of Richmond,” said Jayme Swain, president and CEO of VPM and the Virginia Foundation for Public Media. “We are so excited to be part of the Historic Monroe Ward community and to welcome the public into our new home in 2026.”
past while touting the accomplishments and progress made by the City. The Affordable Housing Trust Fund, Office of Community Wealth Building and regular funding increases for Richmond Public Schools were among the policies and initiatives cited as examples of City Council performing their duties well or setting the groundwork for success.
“We have a great city, but a lot of people have been left behind,” said 6th District Representative Ellen F. Robertson, who joined incumbents Ann-Frances Lambert, Cynthia Newbile and Nicole Jones at the forum. “My whole tenure working on City Council has always been to represent those families and those people that are left behind and I will continue to be that faithful leader.”
There were commonalities among some of the responses candidates offered. All present supported changing the rules for public comment during council meetings, as well as replacing the city’s chief administrative officer and finance director. Accountability and transparency also were frequent refrains among the candidates.
Brenda Cureton, a managing partner for the Commonwealth Facilitation Group, was disappointed that Abubaker wasn’t present to make her case to represent the 4th District, where she lives. Still, she said the forum was a welcome chance to assess the candidates.
“I think overall, the candidates as a whole presented their cases appropriately and respectfully,” Cureton said. “I do think that the candidates who really seem to have a commitment as far as education and housing are the candidates that I’m leaning more towards.”
Former RCV President Charles Chambliss, while disappointed that the audience present wasn’t able to submit questions to the candidates was glad to see the organization providing this service to the public.
“It’s good that the Crusade is still holding forums like this,” Chambliss said. “Overall, this went pretty well.”
The RCV will hold a final forum focused on School Board candidates on Thursday, Aug. 15, and announce their endorsements Tuesday, Aug. 20.
The initiative follows a successful pilot run for bus transportation at elementary schools during the 2023-24 school year. Officials emphasize that student data transmitted by the cards is encrypted and only accessible through Henrico Schools’
Attendees were treated to music, food from local food trucks and a first look at where the new building will stand when construction is complete. Swain provided some remarks before introducing Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney, who expressed his eagerness to welcome
internal systems, addressing potential privacy concerns.
Upon return to school, students will receive their ID cards along with districtissued breakaway lanyards and protective sleeves. They will be required to wear the IDs visibly while on school grounds.
The use of ID cards for after-school activities will be phased in over time, beginning with varsity and junior varsity football games at high schools this fall.
To assist with the transition, the district has created an online resource page at henricoschools.us/page/student-id-cards. This page includes frequently asked questions and will be updated as new issues or guidelines arise.
For more information about school safety, transportation, technology and other backto-school matters, visit henricoschools.us.
VPM to Downtown Richmond. VPM’s move to the Monroe Ward community centralizes its news and content production operations, making them more accessible. The relocation ensures VPM is present in the Richmond community and can seamlessly cover local news in and around the city, according to a press release. The new facility also will feature a street-level community studio and event space equipped to host audiences for broadcast events and other live experiences. Construction of the new building officially began Aug. 12 and is expected to be completed in 2026. Signs posted on the fences around the construction site previews what the completed building will look like and provides a QR code directing users to more information on the project. Updates on the progress of the new headquarters will be posted to forward.vpm.org
VPM photo
Construction of the VPM headquarters began this week and is expected to be completed in 2026.
Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press
Antoinette Essa, left, moderated the Richmond Crusade for Voters’ City Council Forum on Monday at Third Street Bethel AME Church.
Courtesy Henrico County Public Schools
Henrico Public Schools is introducing student ID cards to be used daily by all students from pre-K to the 12th grade.
Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press
Barry Wilkerson watches the wheels go by next to his 2016 Camaro. The Department of Motor Vehicles marked its 100th anniversary with a “Through the Decades: DMV Classic Car Show” on Aug. 3.
Virginia Lottery generates a record-breaking $934M for K-12 public education
By Nathaniel Cline
The Virginia Lottery announced Wednesday that $934 million in fiscal year 2024 sales profits will benefit K-12 public education, a record amount. The total amount it collected for the fiscal year that ended June 30 was more than $5.5 billion.
The Lottery’s total proceeds to public education stands at $13.6 billion, and the agency continues Virginia’s year-over-year sales increases since the pandemic. Last year, the Virginia Lottery earned $867.4 million from lottery sales, an increase from $779.6 million in 2022.
“Over the course of my administration, we have been able to achieve record funding for K-12 education, allowing for increased opportunities in the classroom,” said Gov. Glenn Youngkin in a statement on Wednesday. “I am so thrilled
these record profits will help provide the necessary support and resources for Virginia’s students,” the governor said, noting that about 10% of the state’s K-12 education budget stems from Virginia Lottery profits.
Youngkin, along with Secretary of Education Aimee Guidera, said the lottery helps to support various aspects of Virginia’s K-12 education, including special education, career and technical learning, and early reading intervention.
Guidera thanked lottery employees and expressed that their work helps set students up for success outside the classroom.
“It is preparing every single graduate of our K-12 schools to be ready for life, and that means preparing them to be productive members of our economy, to be informed and engaged citizens in our democracy, and to be engaged, thoughtful and good neighbors in our communities,”
Guidera said. The announcement of the lottery’s sizable profits comes after some convenience stores shut downVirginia Lottery sales briefly in April in protest to the ban on skill games, which are still illegal in the state after a lengthy campaign to lift the ban and protracted deliberation in the legislature.
Virginia Lottery Director Khalid Reede Jones said in the past fiscal year, the agency paid $4.2 billion in prizes to lottery participants, and $142 million to retail partners, while doing so with an expense ratio of 3.8%.
In his remarks to the governor, Jones said “the only thing I can promise is that we are endeavoring to make fiscal year 2025 even bigger, better and greater than this year.”
This story originally appeared at VirginiaMercury.com.
Historic hospital’s fate hangs in balance as debate continues
Continued from A1
“I’m trying to balance economics, I’m trying to balance the needs of the community, I’m trying to balance what Virginia Union needs in the form of revenue,” said Garfield Antonio, vice president of development for the Steinbridge Group and leader of the Brook/Overbrook Development Project. “This is unpopular, but the building has sat for a number of years.”
The incorporation of the hospital is part of planned commemorations of its staff and history, and include naming green spaces and structures for Black doctors such as hospital co-founder Sarah Garland Jones, and producing oral histories of the hospital. The commemorative effort will cost $5 million, alongside the projected $40 million for the development.
The details provided marked the most comprehensive update since VUU announced in February its plan to redevelop parts of the area through a housing development partnership with Steinbridge.
The announcement that the hospital could face demolition sparked months of community pushback, including gatherings outside the building.
The discussion among attendees largely focused on the partial demolition of the hospital building, with questions and criticism over its use leading to back-and-forth responses between VUU and development officials and the audience.
People connected to the hospital through birth, work or family, historic preservationists and others were among those challenging the plans and advocating for the building’s rehabilitation and reuse.
“For Virginia Union not to recognize the importance related to the community hospital — it is insulting,” said J. Maurice Hopkins, who accused the school of focusing on profit. “Our legacy, our history is being washed away, and you’re responsible!”
Not everyone was critical of the development plans. Some in the audience saw it as a way to ensure VUU’s survival through a new venture and a fair compromise to maintain the hospital’s legacy.
“I completely understand and relate to the passion and comments that have been made regarding the preservation of the hospital,” VUU graduate Pamela Parker said. “But I personally want to applaud the efforts of your companies in trying to create a way to save Virginia Union.”
VUU President and CEO Hakim J. Lucas pushed back against
criticism of the plan and their choice to decline offers by groups like Historic Richmond to assess the building and provide suggestions to preserve and incorporate it into the development.
“Let us be clear [...] this is not uninformed at all,” Lucas said. “The decision is not rooted in money at all. It’s rooted in one thing that’s important to all students here — housing.”
Additional questions focused on the ownership of the land following construction, the apartment’s affordability, the percentage of rent that would go to VUU and the college’s decision to involve itself in housing development.
“It’s not affordable. We’re talking about one- and two-bedroom apartments for the most part - $2,000 a month,” School Board member and City Council candidate Kenya Gibson said in a social media post after the meeting. “Same stuff we’ve seen all over the city.”
The organization of the meeting also drew some scrutiny. Although it was billed as a chance for public clarity, non-VUU attendees and media outlets were barred from livestreaming or recording the event.
Construction on the Steinbridge development is set to start by the end of 2024, and both it and Gateway North are expected to be finished in 2025.
Incarcerated fathers and daughters reunite at a dance in Netflix doc
Continued from A1
with in the past, and just to learn and be a willing participant,” Patton told The Associated Press during the Sundance Film Festival in January.
The two began an eight-year journey as co-directors to make the documentary “Daughters,” which follows four young girls as they prepare to reunite with their fathers for a dance in a Washington, D.C., jail. Executive produced by Kerry Washington, the Sundance-prize winning film began streaming on Netflix this week. .
With intimate moments inside the homes of the girls, and glimpses into the intensive 12-week therapy session the fathers participate in prior, “Daughters” paints a moving and complex portrait of fractured bonds and healing.
“It was just one of the most
powerful stories I had ever come across,” Rae said. “For me, it was a beautiful example of what change can happen in the world when we listen to the wisdom of young women. This is a young Black girls’ idea, and she knew what her and her father needed.”
In the same spirit, the two filmmakers agreed that they wanted “Daughters” to be from the girls’ perspectives.
“I am always an advocate for them,” Patton said. “I hear them saying that ‘My dad is valuable to me but I’m really ticked off at him right now.’ Or ‘My dad is great, and someone else is trying to tell me that he’s not and I want you to not see my father as the bad man because he made a poor decision. But he still loves me.’ I’m hearing all of these lived experiences through many girls in the community. I want to see how we
This image, provided by Netflix, is a scene from “Daughters.” can help them.”
Though Patton has for many years worked with Black families in Washington and Richmond, for the film there would have to be another level of trust in establishing close relationships with the girls and their mothers, asking what they
needed and were comfortable with and knowing when to turn the cameras on and off.
“You have to get to know the families. I come from understanding that in order for us to build trust in the community, I have to co-create with them,” Patton said. “I’ve been doing it
for over 20 years. I kind of got a reputation. ... Sister Angela is what they call me. You know, ‘She’s got our back. She’s going to protect us.’” Rae was a newcomer to this world, but Patton said that her co-director “took it to the next level” getting to know their subjects and earning their trust.
“These are really lifetime relationships,” Rae said. “Most of the time we’re not filming. It’s going and spending time being invited to see someone at the hospital, going to a birthday party. Aubrey (one of the subjects) and I made her dad a birthday cake one year and got to talk to him on the phone and just told him what it looked like.”
“Daughters” is what some people are calling a “three tissue” movie that is sure to pull at heartstrings. The filmmakers hope that it can also be an agent of change, a powerful
example of the importance of visits in which girls can hug their fathers.
“We really want to show the impact on families and daughters from this system and incarcerated fathers and bring more awareness around the importance around touch visits and family connection,” Rae said.
In a joint statement from both directors, provided by Netflix, they explain the kind of story that “Daughters,” tels.
“This is not a sad story. This is a love story,” the directors emphasized. “It is a healing story about the ways in which those experiencing the worst of our country’s broken systems often have the best of ideas for how to stay human within them until revolution comes.”
Richmond Free Press staff writer Paula Phounsavath contributed to this report.
Businesses and volunteers rally to support students’ back-to-school
Continued from A1
of America, VCU Alumni, Dominion Energy and Target. It was presented by CoStar Group and hosted by Virginia Commonwealth University.
Richmond Superintendent Jason Kamras highlighted the financial relief the event offers to families.
“Preparing students to return back to school can create a huge financial burden for families, and so to be able to partner with the businesses and organizations here today, and relieve some of
that stress for our families, is incredible,” Kamras said.
Volunteers at the event packed supplies into backpacks, which were then delivered to schools by partners such as Estes Express Lines.
“Estes is proud to be a partner of this important back-toschool event,” said Will Hupp, Director of Hub Operations at Estes Express Lines. “We’re doing what we do best by delivering the school supplies to area schools to make sure everyone has what they need to start the new school year off strong.”
needs
Seventh District School Board Representative Cheryl Burke reflected on the drive’s origins and its ongoing impact.
“The Ultimate Backpack Supply Drive started as a dream that no child in Richmond Public Schools should worry about having the supplies they need to succeed,” Burke said. “We are so grateful for CoStar Group, VCU, and the broader Richmond community for coming together, year after year, to make this dream a reality.”
Students and staff return to classrooms on Monday, Aug. 19.
Parker Michels-Boyce/The Virginia Mercury
The Virginia Lottery offices in Richmond.
Viola Baskerville, co-organizer of the Save Richmond Community Hospital Group, spoke about VUU’s development plans Aug. 8 at a community meeting held at the school. Above, the current state of the former Richmond Community Hospital building, constructed in 1932.
Photos by Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press
Richmond Free Press
August 15-17, 2024
Making moves
After more than 100 years as a Downtown presence, 22 of those years as our neighbor, reports from The Richmond Times-Dispatch indicate that the daily newspaper is leaving its Richmond office behind. A published report from last Thursday stated the office will close by April 2025. Presently, the newspaper’s operations take up a floor of the 172,110-square-foot building that the paper’s parent company sold to Shamin Hotels in 2020 and leased from them. The next tenants of the building, which take up an entire block, are expected to be the city’s Department of Social Services.
While news of the paper’s abandonment of its city office merited only a brief article on their website, there’s a lot to unpack here. Declining readership, the pandemic and the prevalence of remote workers have changed the newspaper business. Working from home has shown us the hard fact — there’s no news in the newsroom. The story is outside. The idea that there needs to be a central location for a news gathering organization, at times, seems as antiquated as the Selectric typewriters and cigarette smoke that once wafted through newsrooms. Some may wax nostalgic about newsroom banter and shoptalk from yesteryear, but most of the stuff that was said out loud back then will have you in an HR office today or sitting on the sidewalk with a cardboard box. The good ol’ days weren’t always good.
The daily isn’t the first publication that bears the city’s name to pack up and walk out. Lifestyle publication Richmond magazine moved to a Henrico office building in 2021. What’s happening? Maybe the rent is too high. Print publications aren’t the only business who have sought more comfortable spaces outside the city limits. Besides the Richmond Free Press staying put, another exception to the media exodus also made itself known the same day we heard our neighbor was hitting the road.
Last week, Virginia Public Media held a block party beneath a large tent to celebrate the start of construction of new headquarters in Downtown. Construction officially began Monday and is expected to be completed in 2026.
The departure of long-standing media institutions from the city marks the end of an era and signals an evolving media landscape. The shift reflects changes in how news is gathered, produced and consumed these days. We applaud Virginia Public Media’s investment in a physical space Downtown, showing that there’s value in having a presence in the heart of the community they serve.
Regardless of where newsrooms are physically located, the challenge remains the same — to maintain strong local journalism and community engagement. The future of media in Richmond will look different from its past and we’re here for it.
Have you seen this bench?
Last seen July of 2024, coupled with a Confederate marker in Richmond’s South Side.
If you have any information that could help locate this bench, please contact us at (804) 646-0496.
Raindrops in the West End
‘Stolen
While the saying may be true that candidates for vice president usually don’t make much of a difference in the ultimate success of presidential candidates, they do give us plenty to argue about.
That’s particularly true of the current contenders.
Vice President Kamala Harris seemed to bare ly have gotten the name of her chosen running mate, Minne sota Gov. Tim Walz, out of her mouth before the Republican vice presiden tial nominee, Sen. JD Vance from Ohio, raised allegations of “stolen valor” against Walz. “Stolen valor” is a colorful, colloquial and yet often appropriate term for an old and sometimes illegal offense – false claims about rank, honors or service in combat by military imposters.
timing of Walz’s departure from the military amounted to “stolen valor garbage.” “Do not pretend to be something that you’re not,” Vance said. “I’d be ashamed if I was saying that I lied about my military service like you did.”
But Walz did serve a total of 24 years in various units and jobs in the Army National Guard before retiring in 2005. Republicans have charged that he knew his
unit might soon be deployed to Iraq. Walz was ramping up for a congressional bid that year. But even if he retired in order to run for Congress, he already had enough years in service to make that decision legally.
Carrying echoes of the “swift boating” campaign against John Kerry, the 2004 Democratic presidential nominee who was accused of lying about his Vietnam service and decorations, the Trump campaign accused Walz of retiring from the military months ahead of his unit’s deployment to Iraq just to avoid combat.
As Vance, who served as a marine press officer in Iraq, campaigned in Michigan on Wednesday, he questioned whether the
Republicans also have suggested Walz inflated his credentials by calling himself a “retired command sergeant major.” While he did serve in that rank for a time, he reverted back to the rank of master sergeant when he left the military because he had not completed coursework for the higher rank. A day after that story broke, the Harris campaign updated its online biography to correct the rank.
But now Vance also has been called “an imperfect messenger” in a report by CNN’s Brianna Kellar for using his correct job title of “combat correspondent,” since, like Walz, he did not experience actual combat.
That infuriated Vance, and I can understand. Since I conducted similar duties in the Army as a “public information specialist,” I’m not going to quibble about anyone who served honorably. In my view, both Walz and Vance fall in that category.
There’s a reason political campaigns fight these battles so intensely over military records. Americans have a long tradition of elevating their military leaders to positions of political power. Ulysses S. Grant, Teddy Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy, among others, benefited from this effect.
Since I have been reporting and commenting on “stolen valor” controversies for years, I called a leading specialist on the topic, Doug Sterner, a decorated Vietnam veteran and author who launched the Home of Heroes website to document the real heroes and campaign against false claims. He also was a prominent backer of legislation to put an end to stolen valor claims.
“From the LEGAL standpoint, there is no Stolen Valor here” in the examples regarding Walz, he wrote in an email exchange. “When the Stolen Valor Act was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2012, the revised Stolen Valor Act covered only false claims of wearing CERTAIN (not all medals) and had to have a financial benefit to be prosecutable.”
That’s not too surprising,
considering the Supreme Court’s efforts to safeguard free speech. One person’s “stolen valor” can be another person’s “war stories,” in which fact-checking is almost nonexistent.
The internet and the proliferation of media dedicated to partisan causes rather than objective fact-finding make sorting through the various claims all the more difficult. For all of us, a healthy dose of skepticism – whether in reaction to claims of bravery and heroism in battle or to critics asserting that those claims are lies – is in order.
The attacks on Walz and Vance, centered as they are on what frankly are quibbles, hardly seem worthy of so much airtime and consideration. Walz served honorably for 24 years. He should be proud of that. Vance volunteered for military service in a time of war and he should be proud of that. Let’s move on. The writer is a columnist for the Chicago Tribune.
When did politics become such fun? While Democrats will roll up our sleeves to win the November election, in the meantime one of our candidates is clearly having a good time with the process. Every time she strides across a stage, she beams. Her smile is an incandescence. Her wave joyful. And as we get to know him, her avuncular running mate, projects joy and confidence. The chemistry between Vice President Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is visible and bodes well for this campaign.
a “quip” and that he would never insult people who are “trying to have children.”
The best thing about VP Harris and her 3-week-old campaign is that she has not stooped to the bizarrely weird level of her opponent. Whether he is attacking her race, minimizing the size of her crowds or being ignorant and insulting (“low IQ individual”), she allows her surrogates to respond to his idiocy and floats about the nonsense.
And while the former president delivers rambling and incoherent attacks, his running mate Sen. JD Vance is slightly more coherent, but equally ignorant. He and his wife have dialed back on his bizarre comments about “childless cat ladies,” but even their dial back raises questions.
For example, Vance, who did not support the child tax credit in the Senate, now describes Democrats as “anti-family.” His wife, Usha, who is reportedly a brilliant Yale-educated lawyer, attempted to defend the crass remarks by saying they were just
In other words, I suppose, those who choose not to have children are the ones he has contempt for. One in six adults have no biological children for any number of reasons. Vance apparently does not mind alienating such a significant portion of
the population.
Watching the Republicans unravel is amusing. The latest baseless Trump claim is that the rousing crowd (estimated at 15,000) that turned out for VP Harris’ Detroit landing on Aug. 7, was AI-generated. Several news organizations attended the rally and have live footage of it, but the former president, in his dotage, claims that Harris somehow “manipulated” the photographs that were featured on the front pages of many newspapers. Even more bizarrely, the former pPresident, obsessed with crowd size, has claimed that he has drawn larger crowds than Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Is this the person we want to have the nuclear codes?
Even Trump’s former close allies, like U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham and House Speaker Mike Johnson have urged the former president to stop the personal attacks and stick to the issues. He would have to remember the issues to stick to them!
Instead, Trump has spawned a new industry – fact checking! National Public Radio found that his hour-long press conference on Aug. 8 asserted “at least” 162 “misstatements, exaggerations
and outright lies.” That’s more than two lies a minute.
Beyond the lies and misstatements, there is the toxic energy that Trump exudes. He is in constant attack mode and he has a dystopian vision of our country. It appears he wants to frighten people into thinking that Democrats will “ruin” the country and, especially, the economy. While economic fluctuations and inflation have been troubling for some, President Biden has improved the economy from the time that he became president. Indeed, his challenge has been to clean up the mess that the 45th president left.
Meanwhile, VP Harris continues to comport herself with grace and joy. There is a refreshing contrast between the dour scowling incoherent elderly man, and the vital, joyful vice president. Our nation does face some of the challenges that could wipe the smile off anyone’s face, and we certainly don’t expect her to smile her way to the Sept. 10 debate (if Trump manages to show up), but her effect of joy, even among the challenges is a much-needed change of focus for our nation. It explains, perhaps, why Harris attracts the large crowds that seem to unsettle the former president.
Grace, joy, determination, firmness, amiability and cordiality are words that describe VP Harris’ campaign. And millions of Americans appreciate it. It fuels the momentum that Republicans like to dismissively call a “sugar high.” Democrats are high but not on sugar We are high on joy and possibility. The writer is a Washingtonbased economist and author.
Clarence Page
Julianne Malveaux
Commentaries
Power of gumbo spirit on display at Paris Olympics
“In addition to giving us countless thrilling moments of athletic excellence, the Summer Games have given the DEI movement the greatest gift it could ever hope for: a picture of success that can inspire people from across the political spectrum … They represent what makes America great: individuals from diverse backgrounds, viewing their distinctive identities as sources of pride, cooperating together to achieve excellence and bring honor to their nation.” — Eboo Patel
gymnastics team in U.S. history was the most decorated, with 10 medals total, three of them gold, including the coveted individual all-around.
The power of the gumbo spirit was on full display in Team USA at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
The most diverse women’s
Team USA members of every racial and ethnic background found success in Paris, bringing home the gold in track and field,
Marc H. Morial
swimming, and other events. But the diversity of the women’s gymnastics team has captured the world’s attention, given the historic exclusion of women of color from the sport.
When Dominique Dawes competed in the Olympic trials for the 1992 Barcelona Games, she was the first Black gymnast to ever qualify. She was part of the celebrated “Magnificent Seven” in the 1996 Atlanta games who won
the first-ever gold medal for the United States in the women’s team competition.
A decade after Dawes Olympics debut, Gabby Douglas became the first Black woman of any nationality to win the all-around gold medal in gymnastics.
It would be absurd to argue that Black women were absent from Olympic gymnastics for nearly a century because of a lack of talent. It is an equally absurd argument to make about executive leadership in the nation’s top corporations, admissions to elite colleges and universities, or the Oval Office.
The anti-racial justice extremists who want to ban DEI policies would doom Team USA to mediocrity just to assure their own place on the roster.
Diverse organizations –from Fortune 500 companies to Olympic gymnastics teams
– perform better than exclusive organizations. People from different backgrounds bring a wealth of different experiences, knowledge, and skills. One study found that diverse and inclusive teams made better decisions than individuals 87% of the time.
Diverse companies see higher revenue , with75% of companies with strong DEI policies in their management teams will surpass
their financial goals. The gymnastics world did not sit passively by and wait for a
Climate crisis devastates Black communities, but public transit is a solution
step forward.
As the world grapples with the ever-intensifying impacts of the climate crisis, a stark and troubling reality has emerged: Black communities are bearing a disproportionate burden of environmental degradation. This inequity is not merely a matter of statistics or abstract concepts; it translates into real, tangible hardships that exacerbate existing social and economic disparities. Historically, Black communities have been subjected to systemic neglect and discrimination, and climate change is amplifying these injustices. From heatwaves to hurricanes, the effects of climate change are not felt equally across all demographics. Research shows that Black neighborhoods often experience higher temperatures than their wealthier, predominantly white counterparts due to a phenomenon known as the
urban heat island effect. This occurs when cities’ infrastructures — often designed without considering the needs of marginalized populations — trap heat, leading to dangerously high temperatures.
This discrepancy is more than an inconvenience; it has serious health implications. Extreme heat can exacerbate conditions such as asthma, which disproportionately affects Black children, and contribute to higher mortality rates.
Moreover, climate change amplifies the risk of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and floods. Communities that are already marginalized face the brunt of these disasters,
not only due to their location in more vulnerable areas but also because of limited resources to prepare for or recover from such events. The devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 underscored this grim reality, with Black communities in New Orleans suffering disproportionately due to
Kim Smith
inadequate evacuation plans, delayed relief efforts, and systemic inequalities in housing and infrastructure.
The reality is the climate crisis is not coming, it is here now. And it is deadly and devastating, particularly for Black communities across this country. And it is a crisis that demands swift and decisive action, and bolstering public transit represents a necessary
The dirty secret is that the transportation sector is the largest source of U.S. climate pollution — and 80% of transportation emissions come from the cars and trucks on our roads. It’s one of the only major sectors where emissions are still rising
It is because of this, that investing in public transit is one of the most sensible and impactful things we can do to address the climate crisis on the scale that is needed.
First and foremost, public transit offers a direct solution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike personal vehicles, which contribute significantly to carbon dioxide and other pollutants, public transit systems can transport large numbers of people efficiently and with reduced environmental impact per capita. A robust public transit
“I will continue to work hard every day to deliver for Virginia families. Join me and my campaign so we can stand up for Virginia together.”
Tim Kaine has shown up for our community since he was Mayor of Richmond, as our Governor, and now our Senator—he’s fought to help make our lives better.
SENATOR TIM KAINE HAS:
Passed laws to lower prescription drug costs, including capping the cost of insulin at $35
Brought good-paying jobs into our neighborhoods through voting for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
Helped Black-owned small businesses grow by providing the American Rescue Plan
network decreases the overall reliance on fossil fuels, thus curbing emissions that drive climate change.
In addition, investing in public transit promotes sustainable development. By prioritizing accessible, reliable transit options, cities can mitigate urban sprawl and reduce the need for expansive road networks and parking infrastructure.
Despite this, for far too long, policymakers in Washington have prioritized highways and cars over public transit.
Luckily there is new legislation in Congress to fix this. Bills have been introduced in both the House and the Senate to increase transit budgets through operations funding. These bills, the “Stronger Communities through Better Transit Act” in the House and the “Moving Transit Forward Act” in the Senate, would provide more
money to states and local municipalities to increase transit options. Congress should pass them without delay. The climate crisis necessitates bold and proactive measures. Investing in public transit is not merely an option but a moral imperative and a practical solution to combat climate change while fostering equitable and sustainable urban development. By prioritizing public transit, policymakers can chart a course towards a more resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable future for all.
The climate crisis is devastating Black communities and public transit offers a real and viable solution. We just need Washington to act, and soon. Time is running out.
The writer is a City Council member in Rochester, N.Y.
Photo/Charlie
From left to right, Suni Lee, Simone Biles and Hezly
women’s
By Doug Feinberg
The Associated Press
U.S. women’s basketball players have been saying for years that winning in the Olympics isn’t easy and France showed at the Paris Games that their comments are more than just rhetoric to keep fans interested.
The rest of the world is catching up to the U.S., though Olympic gold should continue to run through America.
The future for USA Basketball looks bright with A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart in their prime. Then there also is an extremely talented young group of players who say they want to be in the pipeline, led by Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers and Juju Watkins.
They could help anchor the national team, which is in a bit of a transition with the retirement of Diana Taurasi, who finished her career with a record six gold medals.
The Americans captured their record eighth Olympic gold medal Sunday by the narrowest of margins with a 67-66 victory over France. The U.S. won its six games in the tournament by an average of 15.7 points — the lowest during its streak.
“The parity of women’s basketball is just only continuing to grow,” Stewart said. “So I think, you know, we know it’s not easy.”
France became the first team to come within a hair of beating the U.S in the Olympics during its record 61-game winning streak that dates back to the 1992 Barcelona Games. Only two other teams had come within single digits of the Americans in those 32 years.
“Maybe they won’t say it’s just easy and we walk in and just win gold,” said U.S. center Brittney Griner who broke down in tears when she was presented her third gold medal.
“Maybe they’ll stop saying that, because, like I said, we see everybody’s best shot. And we saw the shot that France gave us.”
The U.S. will get homecourt during the 2028 Olympics, which will be held in Los Angeles. The Americans had played the last two gold medal games against teams from the host nation. Griner said “we’ll see” when asked if she’ll be playing in the Los Angeles Games.
Even if she doesn’t decide to play — she’ll be 37 at that point— the U.S. should return its top two stars Stewart and Wilson, who are only 29 and 28
years old respectively.
The pair could potentially play in a few more Olympics. With the exception of Taurasi, no one on this year’s Olympic team would be older than 37 by the time the 2028 Olympics happen.
“I think being able to learn from a lot of the veteran players here, knowing
NASCAR’s Rajah Caruth teams up with Microsoft to turbocharge VUU
Free Press staff report
Virginia Union University just got a serious upgrade, thanks to NASCAR driver Rajah Caruth and tech giant Microsoft. On Aug. 9 during NASCAR’s Race Weekend, Caruth rolled into the Claude G. Perkins Living and Learning Center with a state-of-the-art driving simulator in tow, ready to shift VUU’s educational resources into high gear.
The simulator, which was officially presented during a press conference, is more than just a flashy piece of tech—it’s a game-changer for VUU students. This dynamic tool will give them hands-on experience with cutting-edge automotive technology and engineering, offering a
sneak peek into the fast-paced world of motorsports.
“It’s been an absolute thrill to collaborate with Microsoft on this,” said Caruth, who’s making waves in the NASCAR Truck Series. “This simulator is close to my heart—it’s how I started my journey in racing. Now, I’m pumped to see the students at VUU get the chance to dive into the world of motorsports, just like I did.”
Caruth was in town for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Richmond Raceway. He placed 17th in the race and is ranked fifth among points-eligible drivers in the national standings.
“The thing about racing that is special is that it is an equalizer
compared to other sports ... It just matters the work you put in and and how well you do as a driver ... it does not matter who you are or where you are from,” said Caruth, a senior at Winston-Salem State University.
As part of the partnership, 15 lucky VUU students attended NASCAR Race Weekend on Aug. 10, where they scored exclusive access to the garage and pit areas. It was a golden opportunity to witness the high-octane action behind the scenes of professional racing.
“This simulator isn’t just another addition to our campus — it’s a bold step forward,” said Hakim J. Lucas, president and CEO of VUU. “This transformative tool is going to supercharge our students’ learning
it’s kind of my time and a lot of our times that, this younger generation is able to kind of take this legacy and continue to push forward and go for nine,” said Sabrina Ionescu, who earned her first Olympic gold medal. “This is a program that has always sort of made it look easy. But I always said it’s not.”
The major question potentially is who will be coaching the team in Los Angeles. Cheryl Reeve could come back to coach the team, although it’s extremely rare that a coach does a second stint. Only Geno Auriemma, who coached in 2012 and 2016, has done that. If the U.S. goes another direction, there’s a few potential candidates. Assistant Kara Lawson, who won gold as a player in 2008 and also guided the inaugural 3x3 U.S. team in 2021 to first place could be on the list. A trio of WNBA coaches have experience with USA Basketball: Curt Miller, Stephanie White and Tanisha Wright also could be considered.
A dark horse could be Las Vegas Aces Coach Becky Hammon. She hasn’t been involved with USA Basketball at all yet and played for Russia in the 2008 Olympics. Yet no WNBA coach has been more successful the last few years than Hammon, who has led the Aces to back-to-back WNBA championships.
With the Aces’ core of Wilson, Kelsey Plum, Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young potentially back in 2028, Hammon would certainly have their endorsement.
experience.” Lucas emphasized that the hightech gift is part of VUU’s broader strategy to push the envelope in
FXA Sports, Be Social Richmond merge to expand adult sports offerings
Free Press staff reports
FXA Sports, one of the nation’s largest adult sports leagues, has announced a merger with Be Social Richmond to expand and enhance adult sports opportunities in the Richmond area. The merger will combine resources, leagues and sports options for a more comprehensive sports experience.
FXA Sports, founded in 2007, has been a key player in adult sports across Northern Virginia, Charlottesville and Richmond. The league offers 18 sports and has built a community of more than 100,000 players, emphasizing competition, camaraderie and fun.
Be Social Richmond, which started in 2010 as a cornhole league, has since grown to offer one of central Virginia’s largest adult sand volleyball programs. The merger will integrate Be Social Richmond’s activities into FXA Sports, broadening
Free Press staff report
the scope of adult sports in Richmond.
education and technology, arming students with the skills they need to thrive in today’s fast-paced world.
Richmond Flying Squirrels set to soar in 2025
Free Press staff report
The Richmond Flying Squirrels have announced their game schedule for the 2025 season, marking their 15th year in the league and the 40th season of baseball at The Diamond.
The team will kick off their 138-game season at home Friday, April 4, hosting the Akron RubberDucks. This opener is expected to continue the Flying Squirrels’ streak of 14 consecutive sold out home openers.
“We are extremely excited to look ahead to 2025 and the 15th season of Flying Squirrels baseball,” said Ben Rothrock, chief operating officer and general manager. “We have already started the process of planning great promotions and events for 2025.”
A notable change in the 2025 schedule is that the Flying Squirrels will be on the road for Independence Day for the first time in franchise history. However, fans needn’t worry about missing out on holiday festivities. The team will host the inaugural Star-Spangled Squirrels Fest at The Diamond on July 4, featuring one of the region’s largest fireworks displays.
“This merger will provide the ultimate player experience for adult sports in the Richmond area, allowing for more sports, new leagues and a larger adult sports community,” said Jeremy Purcell, president of FXA Sports. “Our goal is to get people out of the office, off their phones and TVs and into playing the sports they love.” James Schneider, founder of Be Social Richmond, shared his enthusiasm for the merger.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Men’s Soccer Coach Dave Giffard has announced the addition of six players ahead of the 2024 season. The new recruits, hailing from both local and international backgrounds, are set to join the Rams as they look to build on their success as defending Atlantic 10 Champions.
The incoming class includes Mohammed Ibrahim, Haya Yoshizawa, Ryan Londeree, Deniss Hayes, Nikita Hayes and Tetsunari Fujishiro. Three of the new additions— Londeree and the Hayes brothers—are from the Richmond area and played at Cosby High School. The other recruits come from Ghana and Japan.
“It’s a small but exciting group of players that we’ve added for 2024,” Giffard said. “There are a few guys that I think will be ready to help this fall, but they all bring something valuable to the program and have the potential to make an impact over the
“I’m incredibly excited for Be Social Richmond and FXA to be joining forces. My mission was always to provide a great experience for players to be active and social at a reasonable cost.
course of their careers at VCU.”
Ibrahim, originally from Cape Coast, Ghana, attended Montverde Academy, where he was named MVP of the 2023 MAST Tournament while playing for SIMA Gold. This past summer, he played in USL League Two with Vermont Green. Yoshizawa transfers to VCU from Stetson University, where he played in 17 matches last season, starting five and recording one assist. He began his college career at Georgia Southern and also attended Montverde Academy. Londeree arrives as the 2023-24 Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year and VHSL Class 6 State Player of the Year from Cosby High School. He also played for Richmond United, earning a spot on the Richmond Times-Dispatch All-Metro
Together as FXA Sports RVA, we will be able to do exactly that,” Schneider said.
The merger is expected to be finalized for the fall 2024 season. The partnership is anticipated to increase the number of leagues and sports offered, enhance customer service and provide additional resources for growth.
First Team.
Deniss Hayes, also from Cosby, played a pivotal role in securing the 2024 VHSL Class 6 State Championship, scoring the game-winning goal in the final. He was named to the VHSL Class 6 First Team AllState and the Richmond Times-Dispatch All-Metro First Team.
Nikita Hayes, Deniss’ brother, was another standout at Cosby, earning VHSL Class 6 First Team All-State honors and joining his brother on the Richmond TimesDispatch All-Metro First Team.
Fujishiro joins VCU from Japan’s Nihon University Fujisawa High School, where he helped his team to a third-place finish at the national high school tournament and a championship in the U18 Kanagawa Prefectural League D1. VCU kicks off its regular season Aug. 22 at Wake Forest. The Rams will host their home opener Aug. 26 against in-state rival Old Dominion at 7 p.m. at Sports Backers Stadium.
The 2025 season will primarily consist of a six-game series played from Tuesday through Sunday, with a few exceptions. The season will conclude with a six-game homestand against the Hartford Yard Goats from Sept. 9-14.
Season memberships will go on sale this Wednesday. Fans who place a 50% deposit will receive priority access for 2026 season memberships.
While game times and individual ticket information were not announced, fans can already mark their calendars for a season filled with Flying Squirrels action. The team is currently wrapping up its 2024 season, with their final homestand against the Altoona Curve continuing this week at The Diamond.
Flying Squirrels 2025 Schedule
April 4-6 vs. Akron RubberDucks (Cleveland Guardians)
April 8-13 at Harrisburg Senators (Washington Nationals)
April 15-20 vs. Bowie Baysox (Baltimore Orioles)
April
April
May 6-11 at Harrisburg Senators (Washington Nationals)
May 13-18 vs. Erie SeaWolves
May 20-25 at Binghamton Rumble
June
June
June
June
July
July
July
July
FXA Sports has joined forces with Be Social Richmond. This strategic merger aims to offer an expanded array of leagues and events to Richmonders.
Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press
Rajah Caruth, a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver, test drives the driving simulator donated by himself and Microsoft to Virginia Union University.
Dave Giffard
Gregory Shamus/Pool Photo via AP
Aja Wilson shoots as Marieme Badiane looks to block Aug. 11, during a women’s gold medal basketball game between the United States and France at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Personality: Kenneth Lanelle Ragland
Spotlight on the 2024 president of the National Police Athletic/Activities League
Kenneth Lanelle Ragland grew up in inner-city Philadelphia, an area that struggled with poverty and crime. His positive experience with the Philadelphia Police Athletic League (PAL) inspired him to pursue a career focused on creating opportunities for young people in similar circumstances.
“The Philadelphia PAL was more than a program to me, it was a lifeline,” he said. “It provided the support and belief I needed to envision a life beyond my neighborhood.”
Ragland attended Overbrook High School, known for its notable alumni such as Will Smith and Wilt Chamberlain. Growing up in West Philadelphia, he had the chance to experience opportunities beyond his immediate neighborhood. Ragland recognizes the impact these experiences had on his life.
Ragland had friends in Henrico and relocated to the Richmond area. He joined the Henrico Police Department in 1993 and worked as a supervisor and detective in white-collar crime and burglary.
Ragland founded Henrico County PAL in 2007 to improve the relationship between the police and the community. He credits the leadership of the Henrico County government and the Henrico PAL Board for his rise to president of the National PAL.
“I’m very thankful to the county Board of Supervisors, which governs with a heart, for allowing me to lead Henrico PAL,” he says. “It is regarded as one of the premier PAL programs in the country, serving over 4,000 youths annually.”
Ragland, who is engaged to be married next year, leads a busy life balancing personal commitments with his professional goals. He maintains a
healthy lifestyle and enjoys fitness activities when time allows. His community involvement continues, with a focus on the upcoming capital campaign for the Henrico PAL Youth & Family Recreation and Education Center.
Meet Kenneth Lanelle Ragland, a Philadelphia-born leader and advocate for underserved youths and this week’s
Personality:
Volunteer position: 2024
President of the National Police Athletic/Activities League, Inc. (National PAL) Board of Directors.
Occupation: Founder and executive director of the Henrico Police Athletic League (Henrico PAL).
Date and place of birth: Feb. 6 in Philadelphia.
Where I live now: Henrico County.
Education: Bachelor’s in organizational management from Bluefield College, a post-bachelor certificate in public safety from Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s in criminal justice from VCU.
Family: Son, Kenneth Ragland Jr., daughter Domonique Ragland and grandson Ka’dyn Ragland.
Tell us about the National Police Athletic League (PAL): We are a premier youth nonprofit organization and the leading resource for law enforcement engagement with youths, families and juvenile crime prevention.
Mission: The National Association of Police Athletic/ Activities Leagues, (National PAL) and its chapters work nationwide to promote the prevention of juvenile crime and violence by building relationships with kids, cops and communities through positive
engagement.
When, where and why was the National PAL founded: In 1910, the New York Police Department created the Police Athletic League to provide at-risk youths and gang members with activities to reduce crime and develop positive relationships with the police department.
Number of local PAL nonprofit organizations in the U.S.: Over 350 chapters serve over 2 million youths.
When were the local PALs founded: Richmond PAL, Virginia’s oldest PAL, was founded in 1989, Henrico PAL in 2007 and Chesterfield PAL in 2018.
How I became involved with PAL and then National PAL: I grew up in the Philadelphia PAL Boxing Program as a kid raised by a single mother. The police officers were some of my mentors and coaches, ultimately leading me to a career in law enforcement. In 2007, I was working as a
sergeant with the Henrico County Police Division when I was tapped to create positive relationships between underserved youths in Henrico County and our police officers. I was fortunate to have the support of the former Board of Supervisors Chair Frank Thornton. That success launched my work as a trustee on the National PAL Board.
When elected National board president: I was elected in May 2024 in San Diego.
Why I accepted the position: I wanted to ensure National PAL continues to be the world’s premier youth crime prevention.
Length of term: Two years.
No. 1 goal or project as national board president: My first goal is to enhance the organization’s infrastructure to ensure stability and continuity, which will create a platform to broaden National PAL’s brand and improve our ability to secure unrestricted funding.
Strategy for achieving goal:
Develop an operations plan to share with the National PAL Board, staff and local chapters, providing a clear and concise direction for the organization.
My No. 1 challenge: Strategically raising awareness about PAL nationally to attract the financial resources needed to help even more American youths.
Status of Richmond PAL: Richmond PAL is not currently engaging youths in any programs while awaiting an audit.
Describe Richmond PAL struggles and my plans to help: What lies at the root of Richmond PAL’s struggles is
what plagues many floundering PAL programs. PALs run by police departments often lack the skills to operate a nonprofit organization effectively because police officers, while very good at policing, are not business people.
Best practices have proven that to effectively run a PAL program, a holistic partnership must exist between the police department and the community. PAL programs that thrive, such as Henrico PAL and others, allow police departments to focus on engaging youth through programs while seeking partnerships with organizations that focus on the business aspects. I plan to partner with Richmond to re-establish their PAL program.
One way I have witnessed PAL make a difference in a young person’s life: In 2008, I started mentoring a teenager in my community through the Henrico PAL Program. He participated in our first summer camp and joined the Youth Leadership Council. He later became the president of the YLC and was selected as the 2011 National PAL Youth of the Year.
After high school, he attended Duke University on a full scholarship and graduate school at Georgetown University. He then became a commissioned officer in the military with plans to work for the federal government in the future. He also volunteers in our PAL program.
How to become involved with PAL in Henrico and Chesterfield: Henrico PAL can be reached by visiting our website at www.henricopal.org, calling (804) 262-HPAL (4725), or emailing info@henricopal.org Chesterfield PAL can be reached by calling Sgt. Joey Kierson at (804) 221-0982 or emailing kiersonj@chesterfield.gov
Upcoming local PAL events: Henrico PAL’s state-licensed after-school programs at Baker, Dumbarton, Harvie, and Pinchbeck elementary schools kick off Aug.19. The 14th Annual Henrico PAL Award Banquet on Oct. 24 will feature comedian
A jazz thing
Down
Free Press staff report
The 33rd Annual Down Home Family Reunion, a celebration of African American folklife, is set for Aug. 17 in Richmond’s Historic Jackson Ward. The event, presented by the Elegba Folklore Society, runs from 4 to 11 p.m. at Abner Clay Park, 200 W. Clay St.
Organizers say the free festival aims to showcase African American cultural traditions and their influence on the American South. It will feature music, dance, storytelling, food and educational activities.
Performers include, Richmond’s own Legacy Band, R&B group New Birth Legacy, Jah
Baba, a musical ensemble from Benin, West Africa; and Crank LuKongo, a Washington, D.C.based group blending go-go with social commentary.
The event also will offer interactive demonstrations on topics such as Black musicology and urban gardening. A heritage market will sell art and handmade crafts. Activities for children will be available at the Annie Tyler Children’s Place until 8 p.m.
Organizers have arranged parking options, including satellite lots with shuttle service. They advise against parking on residential streets, where time-based ticketing and towing is enforced.
For more information, visit efsinc.org
Home festival celebrates African American culture
Photos by Julianne Tripp Hillian
Rapper Ludacris
Guitarist Kevin Robinson
Flautist and saxaphonist Najee
Vocalist Gregory Porter
Jazz fans Christine Williams and Patricia Huddleson
Music lover Mimi Melvin Parham
Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press
The annual Down Home Family Reunion returns to Abner Clay Park on Aug. 17.
It’s never too hot for jazz and other types of good music. That’s something the people who attended the 12th annual Richmond Jazz and Music Festival already know. They came to get down and they did, to the sounds of rapper Ludadris, the jazz tones of Najee, Gregory Porter and Kevin Robinson, among others. The three day festival concluded on Sunday, with performances from St. Paul and the Broken Bones, R&B songstress Monica and jazz legend Bob James.
Progressive National Baptist Convention leaders hail Harris, pan Trump, urge voting
By Adelle M. Banks Religion News Service
The Progressive National Baptist Convention focused on get-out-the-vote efforts during its annual meeting and celebrated Vice President Kamala Harris becoming a presidential candidate.
“We need everyone to register,” PNBC President David Peoples said at a news conference on Aug. 7, adding that members of his denomination should encourage “our friends and our frenemies and our entire family to vote.”
About 2,500 people attended the four-day annual session of the historic Black denomination, considered the church home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., that concluded in New Orleans on Wednesday.
“We are not political, but we are prophetic,” Peoples said.
But he went on to hail Harris and question recent remarks by former President Donald Trump, who is running against Harris, and to draw comparisons between Harris and the biblical figure Queen Esther.
“We need everyone to help our sister, Kamala Harris, who has always known that she was Black, a daughter of a South Asian mother and a Jamaican father,” he said. “Yes, I know Trump acts like he can’t understand anything about a biracial family and background, even though he has a German and Scottish background. Which one does he wake up and want to be?” Peoples was not the only prominent speaker to draw attention to the election and its
candidates.
U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., and the pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, voiced criticism of Trump during a midday Wednesday session that annually honors the late preacher Gardner C. Taylor
“Your whole history is built on racism, and then you dare to try to curry my favor by saying it’s those brown folk over there who are coming over the border to get your Black job?” he said, without naming Trump but referencing a term the former president used in a June debate with President Biden and again in a recent interview with the National Association of Black Journalists.
“What kind of fool do you think I am? It’s my Black job to
make sure you never make it to the Oval Office again. That’s my Black job. That’s everybody’s job,” he added.
As it has in previous election seasons, the PNBC is working with the AFL-CIO on voter mobilization, with the labor group providing training and funding.
“The PNBC will partner with the AFL-CIO in four targeted battleground states (Michigan, Pennsylvania, Georgia and North Carolina),” said the Rev. Darryl Gray, PNBC’s director general for social justice, in a statement.
“Just as our ancestors gave their all so that we could have the right to vote, we won’t let them down, nor will we allow ultra partisan conservatives or white Christian nationalism
rhetoric threaten peace within our society.”
During the news conference and a social justice session at the meeting, PNBC leaders and other speakers expressed concerns about national and international issues
ternational effort to undermine democracy.”
The Rev. Frederick Douglass Haynes III, co-chair of the PNBC Social Justice Commission, also criticized Project 2025, a series of conservative proposals that some worry will form the foundation of a potential second Trump administration.
“Project 2025, in essence, dismantles everything that was brought about by the Civil Rights Movement,” said Haynes, senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas. “Project 2025 is antidemocracy. In a real sense, it is neofascism that is wrapped in white supremacy in the name of white Jesus.”
Virginia Derby on track for qualifier at Colonial Downs
Free Press staff report
The Virginia Derby is set to become a major player on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. Starting in 2025, Colonial Downs Racetrack will host the Virginia Derby as a “win and you’re in” qualifying race, adding serious stakes to a prestigious event. The news was announced during the Festival of Racing by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, alongside key state officials and Churchill Downs representatives.
Traditionally a highlight of Colonial Downs’ summer schedule, the Virginia Derby is set to undergo a transformation. The race will move from turf to dirt and will take place on March 15, 2025, kicking off a new four-day spring meet. The big prize? A guaranteed spot in the 151st Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
“The future for thoroughbred racing in Virginia has never been brighter and this opportunity will allow us to shine on horse racing’s biggest stage,” Youngkin said.
To authorize the special use of the property known as 2701 Selden Street for the purpose a single-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. ordinance No. 2024-208 To amend and reordain Ord. No. 80-260-81-41, adopted Mar. 9, 1981, as previously amended by Ord. Nos. 81-152-138, adopted August 24, 1981, 84-110-83, adopted May 29, 1984, 89-318-295, adopted Nov. 13, 1989, 2006-26-52, adopted Feb. 27, 2006, 2006260-263, adopted Oct. 23, 2006, 2012-163-164, adopted Oct. 8, 2012, 2017-169, adopted Oct. 9, 2017, Ord. No. 2022-036, adopted Mar. 28, 2022, and Ord. No. 2022-190, adopted Jul. 25, 2022, concerning the Beaufont Oaks Community Unit Plan, to amend the use of the parcel known as 6951 West Carnation Street to allow for multifamily use.
ordinance No. 2024-209
To authorize the special use of the properties known as 312 Goshen Street, 901 West Marshall Street, and 903 West Marshall Street for the purpose of a restaurant use, upon certain terms and conditions.
ordinance No. 2024-210
To authorize the special use of the property known as 4000 North Huguenot Road for the purpose of a single-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions.
Interested citizens who wish to speak will be given an opportunity to do so by following the instructions referenced in the September 9, 2024 Richmond City Council Formal meeting agenda. Copies of the full text of all ordinances are
The announcement has the Virginia racing community buzzing with anticipation. “It is exciting that the Road to the Kentucky Derby will now run through Virginia. Churchill Downs has elevated the stature and economic impact of thoroughbred racing in the Commonwealth while creating jobs, generating significant tax revenue in communities around the state,” said Speaker of the House Don Scott.
The impact goes beyond just the race itself. Secretary of Agriculture Matthew Lohr highlighted how the added race days at Colonial Downs are set to boost the state’s agricultural and equine industries.
“Besides adding prestigious and lucrative races for horsemen, more race days drives significant economic impact throughout Virginia’s entire agricultural sector leading to a healthy breeding industry, stronger equine infrastructure and more employment opportunities across the Commonwealth,” Lohr said.
Racing fans and horsemen alike are eagerly awaiting the spring meet, which is contingent on approval from the Virginia Racing Commission.
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
virGiNiA: iN THe circUiT coUrT For THe coUNTY oF HANover KiMBerLY TiLLAr Plaintiff v. TrAviS SKiNNer Defendant. case No.: cL24001886-00 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 without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, who has been served with the Complaint by posted service appear here on or before the 24th day of September, 2024 and protect his interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure, Plaintiff’s Counsel VSB# 27724 The Law Office of Dorothy M. Eure, P.C. 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667
virGiNiA: iN THe circUiT coUrT oF THe coUNTY oF HeNrico cHArLeS eDWArD SLAUGHTer, Jr Plaintiff, v. ANGeLiTA verNiTA roBiNSoN GoLDSTeiN, Defendant. civil Law No.: cL24-2855 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 without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown appear here on or before the 5th day of September, 2024 at 9:00 AM, 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
virGiNiA: iN THe circUiT coUrT oF THe coUNTY oF HeNrico ABUTAHer M. ASHAFUDDoULA, Plaintiff, v. MUNNY BeGUM, Defendant. case No. cL24-4605 orDer oF PUBLicATioN
The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce upon the ground of a one-year separation. It appearing from an Affidavit that the defendant is a nonresident individual, other than a nonresident individual fiduciary who has appointed a statutory agent, it is ORDERED that the defendant appear before this Court on September 23, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., and protect her interests herein. A Copy Teste: HEIDI S. BARSHINGER, Clerk
Fuzzy’s Lounge 2709 Williamsburg rd Henrico, vA 23231-2032
The above establishment is applying to the V IRGINIA A LCOHOLIC B EVERAGE C ONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Wine, Beer, Mixed Beverage, Consumed On and Off Premises license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Erika Bailey, Owner NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www. abc.virginia.gov or (800) 552-3200.
virGiNiA: iN THe circUiT coUrT For THe coUNTY oF HANover DArriAN ricHArDSoN, Plaintiff v. KiANA ricHArDSoN, Defendant. L24002435-00 ioN 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 without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve
It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts appear here on or before the 1st day of October, 2024 and protect FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR.,
The object of the above-styled suit is to obtain a divorce from the bonds of matrimony from the defendant on the grounds that the parties have lived separate and apart without interruption and without cohabitation for a period of more than one year, since September 15, 2011. And it appearing by Affidavit filed according to law that the above-named defendant, is not a resident of this state and that due diligence has been used by or in behalf of plaintiff to ascertain in what county or city the defendant is, without effect. It is therefore ORDERED that the said Angelita Vernita Robinson Goldstein do appear in the Clerk’s Office of the Law Division of the Circuit Court of Henrico County, 4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, Virginia 23273, on or before September 30, 2024 and Jo whatever necessary to protect their interest in this suit. A Copy Teste: HEIDI S. BARSHINGER, Clerk I ask for this: Rudolph C. McCollum, Jr. VSB# 32825 P.O. Box 4595 Richmond, Virginia 23220 Phone - (804) 523-3900 Fax - (888) 532-1870
virGiNiA: iN THe circUiT coUrT For THe coUNTY oF HANover MicHAeL BUrNS, Plaintiff v. SHANTAL cHerrY, Defendant. case No.: cL24002188-00 orDer oF PUBLicATioN
I ASK FOR THIS: Janet E. Brown, P.C. (VSB #26482) Couple for Plaintiff 3108 N. Parham Road, Suite 600A Richmond, Virginia 23294 (804) 747-8200 (Tel.) (804) 747-3259 (Fax.)
virGiNiA: iN THe circUiT coUrT For THe coUNTY oF HANover SANDY SMiTH DorSeY, Plaintiff v. LAMoNT DorSeY, Defendant. case No.: cL24002222-00 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 without any cohabitation and without interruption for a period exceeding twelve months. It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 10th day of September, 2024 at 9:00 AM and protect his 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 ABc LiceNSe Fuzzy’s Family Kitchen restaurant, LLc Trading as:
