Richmond Free Press October 3-5, 2024 edition by Richmond Free Press

Vice Versus Richmond Free

Virginia schools see uptick in violent threats

By Paula Phounsavath

Since the Sept. 4 Apalachee High School shooting in Georgia that left four dead and nine injured, there have been several threats of violence toward schools in Virginia, including some locally.

Two school threats occurred Tuesday morning and noon at schools in Chesterfield County. Tomahawk Creek Middle School was closed Tuesday after authorities were notified that a parent said their child overheard two students on a bus discussing bringing a gun to school. Around noon, another incident took place at Meadowbrook High School, where a student was stabbed during an altercation with another student. The victim sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment. As a result of the assault, the school remained under lockdown for the rest of the day. The school allowed an early dismissal in the early afternoon, with parents collecting their children at Meadowdale Library. Both schools were closed Wednesday, and all Chesterfield County schools are closed Thursday due to a previously scheduled districtwide closure.

“Please know that I spend nearly every waking hour — and many sleeping ones as well — thinking about this,”

Kamras emphasized in the newsletter.

“I humbly ask for your help.”

While most of these school threats are often false or isolated incidents, it has been reported at least 36 school divisions statewide – including RPS –have seen an uptick in threats of violence such as shootings and bomb threats.

It is still uncertain why these upticks continue to happen after the Apalachee

High shooting. However, University of Virginia education professor, Dewey Cornell, theorized to the Washington Post that it is common to see an uptick in school threats after a recent school shooting. Cornell said some threats are due to, “copycat behavior

Please turn to A4

Amid global and domestic crises, a calmer debate

The Associated Press

In a debate that evoked a calmer era in American politics, Tim Walz and JD Vance on Tuesday went after each other’s running mates and sought to shore up their campaigns’ vulnerabilities at a time of renewed fears of a regional war in the Middle East and sadness over devastation from Hurricane Helene.

Walz, the Democratic governor of Minnesota, and Vance, a Republican senator from Ohio, focused many of their criticisms on the top of the ticket, as is traditional for vice presidential debates. They each pointed to the crises of the day as reasons for voters to choose Vice President Kamala Harris or former President Donald Trump.

The debate unfolded in the final weeks of a campaign that has been defined by harsh, personal attacks and historic convulsions, including a candidate dropping out and another facing two attempted assassinations. Polls have shown Harris and Trump locked in a close contest as early voting begins across the country, giving added weight to anything that can sway voters on the margins, including the impression left by the vice presidential candidates.

Despite the milder tone of the debate, there were still glimpses of the political fractures that threaten American democracy. Vance papered

over the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol and echoed Trump’s election denial by refusing to acknowledge that President Biden won the race in 2020.

But throughout much of the rest of the night, two Midwesterners struck a noticeably friendlier tone than the matchup between Trump and Harris — or, earlier this year, the showdown between Trump and Biden before he dropped out of the race following a disastrous performance.

In one raw moment when Walz said his teenage son had witnessed a shooting at a community center, Vance expressed empathy.

“I’m sorry about that. Christ have mercy,” Vance said.

“I appreciate that,” Walz said.

In other parts of the debate, Vance tried to soften his image, ratcheting down his typically forceful and aggressive delivery and acknowledging that people watching might not agree with him or Trump. He discussed Trump’s ideas with polish while avoiding being pinned down on the more controversial parts of the former president’s record. His performance immediately delighted the Trump campaign and many of its allies. Walz depicted Trump as wrong on the issues and a chaotic leader. He occasionally stumbled over his words, even saying “I’ve become friends Please turn to A4

Trial continues for hospital worker charged in Irvo Otieno’s death

Community mourns loss of Richmond mentor and nonprofit leader

By George Copeland Jr.

Richmond Public Schools stated they have been taking numerous precautions to ensure the safety of its students. In a Sept. 16 email newsletter to families from Superintendent Jason Kamras, the superintendent stated the school division has invested in numerous safety measures such as metal detectors in middle and high schools, additional security cameras and personnel, a new panic alert system and upgraded intercoms.

For over a decade, Stephan A. Hicks worked to uplift boys and men in the Richmond region and empower them to be their best selves.

As founder and executive director of My Brother’s Keeper of Greater Richmond, he was crucial to the nonprofit’s work, helping thousands of boys and men over the years. Hicks died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, at the age of 63, surrounded by family and MBK leaders. While his service has

Stephan A. Hicks

ended, his collaborators said his impact will be felt for years.

“Stephan Hicks was the father of fathers,” MBK Director Nathan Womack Jr. said in a statement. “He dedicated his life to helping fathers young and old become better.” Hicks was born on April 24, 1961,

in Montgomery, Ala., to Johnny H. Dabney Jr. and the late Marjorie Sayles, moving to Richmond at the age of 40, where he spent years in the city’s South Side. He graduated from Johns Hopkins University in 2004 with a degree in business management and Liberty University in 2013 with an associate of science degree in psychology. Before coming to Richmond, Hicks faced numerous challenges in his life.

By George Copeland Jr.

Was Irvo Otieno’s death the result of suffocation due to improper restraint during a mental health crisis, or a heart attack brought on by preexisting conditions and physical struggle?

This question lies at the heart of a five-day trial that began Monday in Dinwiddie County, where Wavie Jones, a former Central State Hospital worker, faces charges for his role in Otieno’s death. Jones was among the workers at Central State Hospital who assisted Henrico County sheriff’s deputies in restraining Otieno for around 11 minutes when he was brought to the facility last year. Otieno’s arrival followed days in police custody after a neighbor called police about a mental health crisis Otieno was experiencing. Otieno died in custody due to “positional and mechanical asphyxia with restraints,” according to State Medical Examiner Jennifer Bowers. Video of his final moments, restrained on the hospital floor, sparked nationwide outrage. The incident also led to new legislation on mental health crisis response and an $8.4

Mayoral candidates tackle key issues during VPM forum

By George Copeland Jr.

As early voting continues in Richmond, candidates for the Mayor’s Office took a more active role in answering questions and making their case to residents during a forum Tuesday evening hosted at VPM’s Chesterfield County studio.

Organized by VPM, 12 On Your Side and Chamber RVA, and moderated by VPM’s Angie Miles and 12 On Your Side’s Curt Autry, the forum provided questions tailored to the experiences of the candidates.

Addison used his first wild card to offer ideas to reduce property taxes through a new revenue strategy, the Richmond 300 Master Plan and creating new value by using vacant housing and land. He later used his second to tout his years in government for a question on improving city services and hiring employees.

“The job of mayor is to set the vision for the city and to know how to navigate with City Council, how to create

Candidates Andreas Addison, Danny Avula, Michelle Mosby, Maurice Neblett and Harrison Roday also were offered two “wild card” questions that let them to respond to questions directed toward others.

policy and approve a budget with nine other people and nine other priorities to make sure we invest in every single thing we need to do,” Addison said. “I bring that as mayor.”

Neblett addressed questions on the meals tax and drug education using his wild cards to suggest accountability and tax relief measures such as tax freezes where necessary, and proposing a fentanyl task force, support groups and resource centers to combat drug issues.

“I want to focus on our economic development, our

AP photo/Matt Rourke

In the first and only vice presidential debate of the 2024 election season, Sen. JD Vance and Gov. Tim Walz faced off Tuesday night on issues from abortion to gun control in a civil, policy-focused matchup.

Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Wavie Jones, a former Central State Hospital employee, returns to Dinwiddie County Courthouse after a break on Monday, Sept. 30. Jones, accompanied by an unidentified woman, is facing involuntary manslaughter charges in the death of 28-year-old Irvo Otieno, who died during a mental health crisis in March 2023 at Central State Hospital.

Jason Kamras

Irvo Otieno

Video Capture

Andreas Addison, left, Danny Avula, Michelle Mosby, Maurice Neblett and Harrison Roday participate in a televised Mayoral Forum on Oct. 1 at the VPM in Chesterfield County.

Cityscape

Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

Sesha Joi Moon, co-founder and executive director of The JXN Project, left, and her sister, co-founder Enjoli Moon, hosted the groundbreaking for the Skipwith-Roper Cottage and JXN Haus on Sept. 28 in Jackson Ward. The project honors Abraham Peyton Skipwith, Jackson Ward’s first known Black homeowner in 1793. The building will include a research lab, library and community space.

Leaders gather for veterans and military affairs discussion

On Oct. 3, leaders from across Virginia’s business, military and government sectors will come together at the Greater Richmond Convention Center for the 2024 Virginia Veterans & Military Affairs Executive Forum and V3 Awards Luncheon. Hosted by the Virginia Chamber Foundation, the event will highlight efforts to strengthen veteran employment and recognize organizations committed to supporting military families.

The event will begin with a roundtable discussion featuring business, military and state leaders. This conversation will focus on strategies to strengthen Virginia’s standing as a top state for military communities by improving pathways to civilian employment for veterans and military spouses while also attracting military talent.

Following the morning forum, the Virginia Department of Veterans Services will present the Virginia Values Veterans Awards during a luncheon ceremony. These awards will honor V3-certified organizations that have shown exceptional commitment to recruiting, hiring,and retaining veterans and military spouses.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, featuring notable speakers, including Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs Craig Crenshaw, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services Chuck Zingler, Executive Director of the Virginia Veterans Services Foundation Kayla Arestivo, and Mark Elliott,managing director and global head of military and veterans at JPMorgan Chase & Co., among other leaders from the military, government and industry.

The theme for this year’s event, “Honoring our Past, Celebrating our Present, Mentoring our Future,” underscores the commitment to supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life and fostering their success in the workforce.

For more information visit the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program website at dvsv3.com.

Free community testing for COVID-19 continues

For the week ending Saturday, Sept. 28, COVID-19 accounted for 1.2% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, trending down from previous data. No deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported within the same timeframe. Data on COVID-19 wastewater levels in the Greater Richmond area showed plateaus starting Sunday, Sept. 8.

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

• Thursday, Oct. 3, 2 to 4:30 p.m. - Calvary United Methodist Church, 1637 Williamsburg Road

• Friday, Oct. 4, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Southside Women, Infants and Children Office, 509 E. Southside Plaza

• Wednesday, Oct. 9, 8 to 10 a.m. - Eastern 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 804230-2077.

• Whitcomb Court at 2106 Deforrest St., call 804-786-0555. The Virginia Department of Health testing locations are listed at vdh.virginia.gov. For more information on testing sites visit vax.rchd.com. Want a COVID-19 vaccine?

Individuals interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine can schedule an appointment with the Richmond and Henrico health districts by calling (804) 205-3501. Additionally, vaccines.gov provides a list of pharmacies and clinics offering the vaccine. You also can find locations by texting your ZIP code to 438829 or calling 1-800-232-0233.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also offers a vaccine locator at vaccines.gov. The Food and Drug Administration has approved updated versions of the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Novavax COVID-19 vaccines.

Everyone age 6 months and older can get the new COVID19 vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are recommended for everyone age 6 months and older, while the Novavax vaccine is recommended for those age 12 and older.

New vaccines are available at pharmacies and health care providers, with health officials encouraging eligible individuals to receive their booster doses. People who received doses prior to the release of the updated vaccine should wait at least two months before getting the new doses, according to the CDC. Exceptions exist, however, for those who are completing an initial vaccination series, the immunocompromised, those who’ve previously had COVID-19 and those receiving an initial series of Novavax doses.

Compiled by George Copeland Jr.

Law group challenges Virginia’s conversion therapy ban

By Paula Phounsavath

The conservative Founding Freedom Law Center filed a lawsuit against the Virginia Supreme Court last Thursday, challenging the state’s ban on conversion therapy as “unconstitutional.”

The FFLC, the legal arm of the Family Foundation, filed a lawsuit in Henrico County Circuit Court on behalf of John and Janet Raymond, a husband-and-wife team who own the Associate Counseling Center in Warren County. Their practice specializes in Christian-based counseling for families and individuals.

The lawsuit claims the Raymonds have regularly counseled minors seeking help with struggles related to their sexuality. However, they argue that Virginia statute 54.1-2409.5 prohibits professional counselors from assisting minors in “aligning their sexuality or gender identity with the Bible,” which they claim violates their rights to free speech and religious freedom.

“A Virginia licensed counselor that simply has a conversation with a minor for the purposes of helping him or her embrace their God-given sexuality – instead of pursuing homosexuality or transgenderism – can lose their license,” said Victoria Cobb, president of the Family Foundation, during last Thursday’s press conference.

The statute, enacted July 1, 2020, classifies conversion therapy—a practice aimed at changing an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity to conform to cisgender or heterosexual norms—as

as unconstitutional

“unprofessional conduct” that is subjected to disciplinary action.

Research from the Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Law and Public Policy indicates LGBTQ individuals who have undergone conversion therapy from a religious leader or practicing counselor face a 92% higher likelihood of experiencing lifetime suicidal ideation and a 75% greater likelihood of planning to attempt suicide.

However, FFLC’s counsel and representative, Josh Hetzler, expressed confidence in the lawsuit’s success, citing similar cases such as Vlaming v. West Point School Board. In that case, the Virginia Supreme Court ruled in favor of a teacher who refused to use gender pronouns that conflicted with his religious beliefs.

“There’s no such thing as professional speech under the First Amendment jurispru -

dence, that speech is speech,” Hetzler said. “We’ve got a great Religious Freedom Restoration Act that other states don’t have, and we’ve got a great constitution. So, for all those reasons, we feel very confident.”

Since the lawsuit’s announcement, local LGBTQ rights activists have criticized it, arguing that it infringes on the rights of the LGBTQ community.

“What they’re trying to do is trample on the rights of gay people,” said Tavarris Spinks, an LGBTQ activist and former 2nd District Richmond City Council candidate. “They [anti-gay rights activists] have been doing this sort of thing my entire life, certainly my entire adult life.”

While Hetzler stated that this legal challenge does not serve any particular race, Spinks expressed his concerns for the local Black community.

“I fear for my siblings in the

Black gay community,” he said. “I should say, if something like this passes – especially younger folks – folks don’t get a choice in where they go or what they do before the age of 18.” Spinks also emphasized that there are more needs to be met within the local LGBTQ community, such as the rising homelessness and family abuse among LGBTQ groups due to individuals coming out to relatives.

“I thought we were done with this. I thought we’re going to be tackling harder issues,” he said. “This [conversion therapy] is proven scientifically that it does harm, like studies show that if folks go through this, it’s not effective. I would say ... what they’re doing is a waste.” The Commonwealth’s Office of the Attorney General is aware of the lawsuit but will not comment on the case due to pending litigation.

A lifetime achievement

Voting Information

Photos by Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Photo by Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Nine centenarians were honored during the City of Richmond’s 11th annual Centenarian Day celebration on Sept. 21 at the Hilton Richmond Downtown. The honorees included Ida Lee Rollins Cheatham (104), Donna Brumfield (101), Robert Paul Polich (100), Mabel Carmon (101) and Pauline Vance Wheeler (102) who enjoyed a luncheon with family, friends and music. The event celebrated their longevity, history and wisdom.

Paula Phounsavath/Richmond Free Press

Victoria Cobb, president of the Family Foundation of Virginia, speaks at a press conference announcing a lawsuit to overturn the state’s ban on conversion therapy.

Free Press staff report

Craig Crenshaw

Richmond mayoral candidates tackle key issues during forum

Continued from A1

education, our infrastructure and our safety along with the housing crisis,” Neblett said. “It’s our time to have a person who represents us.”

Roday also used a wild card question to offer solutions on improving city services and hiring. His first one was used to showcase his unique qualities as a candidate, noting his position on reproductive health while also pointing out Avula’s previous work under Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin, who has worked to limit abortion access.

“Your next mayor needs to be the person who has the right combination of shared democratic values and experience to do the job,” Roday said. “I’m looking forward to earning your support.”

Avula rebutted Roday’s characterization of his time with the Youngkin administration, pointing to his work then and over the years to provide resources and services in multiple roles. He took a similar approach throughout the evening, including when using his wild cards to talk about the meals tax and property values.

“I’ve built teams, I’ve changed culture, I’ve improved service delivery,” Avula said. “You deserve a mayor that’s done that.”

Mosby used her wild cards to expand on an earlier response she gave on the meals tax and assisting restaurants, and later to highlight her unique perspective compared to other candidates, including on reproductive health. Many of her answers touted her work inside and outside government, her results and her community connections.

“We need someone that’s going to bring us all together so that we can get the collective impact we need to move this city forward,” Mosby said.

The candidates are set to meet again next Tuesday, Oct. 8, for the Arts & Culture Mayoral Forum at the Virginia Repertory Theatre from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Trial continues for hospital worker

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million settlement for his family.

For the jury trial, Commonwealth’s Attorney Amanda Mann laid out an argument that Jones’ actions not only contributed to Otieno’s death, but also violated CSH policy. She and other lawyers have worked to bolster this argument through witness testimonies and items provided to the jury.

This includes the security camera footage of Otieno’s death and photos of his body and the wounds and bruises he sustained while restrained. The sights and details were enough to bring Otieno’s mother Caroline Ouko to tears multiple times as she sat along with family and friends in court.

“Wavie Jones was negligent in the way he restrained Irvo,” Mann said. “It was contrary to his training, it was contrary to his orders.”

“Irvo Otieno was in a mental health crisis and instead of treatment, he left in a body bag.”

Attorneys defending Jones, meanwhile, acknowledged the tragedy of Otieno’s death while attempting to absolve their client from any wrongdoing. They’ve stressed his qualities as a hospital employee before his resignation, while also emphasizing Otieno’s aggressiveness and combativeness while in custody using testimonies, documentation and video.

“Wavie acted to help, not to hurt,” said Emilee Hasbrouck, representing Jones alongside Doug Ramseur. “Because that’s who he is, Wavie is a helper.”

Jones echoed this argument when he testified during the hearing Wednesday, saying that he attempted to keep Otieno secured but safe when trying to restrain him, and described Otieno as not only a danger to himself but not the deputies and hospital staff, according to reports.

The defense also has argued that Otieno’s death was caused not by asphyxiation, but a “sudden cardiac event” due to his obesity, enlarged heart, high blood pressure and fighting the hospital staff and deputies according to a report.

Witnesses in the trial so far have included special agents for the Virginia State Police, CSH staff and some of the deputies and a hospital worker originally charged for Otieno’s death.

Bowers also took the stand Tuesday, reportedly, with defense lawyers attempting across nearly two hours to discredit her assessment of Otieno’s death. Doctors called up by the defense also disagreed with her examination and conclusion during the Wednesday hearing.

Jones is the first of three defendants who are set to be in court over their roles in Oteino’s death, alongside Sheriff’s Deputies Brandon Rodgers and Kaiyell Sanders.

Seven deputies and three CSH workers were originally charged with second degree murder for their roles in Otieno’s death. Over the months, however, most of the defendant’s charges have been dropped and the original charges downgraded to involuntary manslaughter.

The charges also have gone through three different Dinwiddie commonwealth’s attorneys, each one changing the state of the charges and trials in some way.

Further changes came before the trial itself. Multiple prospective jury members were removed for having connections to the Black Lives Matter movement, expressing sympathy for those with mental health needs and concerns over excessive force by police.

The trial continues on Thursday and Friday.

Schools see uptick in threats

Continued from A1 by students.” Virginia’s penal code, 18.2-60, on threats of death or physical harm to others on school property — whether or not the threat is a joke — will result in a Class 6 felony, resulting in up to one to five years in prison.

Amid global and domestic crises, a calmer debate

Continued from A1

with school shooters” when he was talking about meeting with survivors. He did deliver several points sure to please Democrats, including on abortion rights and democracy — even if he never used the word “weird,” the branding he attached to Trump and Vance that brought him to national prominence.

The debate began with a discussion of the Middle East, where Israeli forces are fighting Hezbollah in Lebanon and Iran has fired missiles at Israel. In Gaza, Israeli forces continue to fight Hamas after the Oct. 7 attack.

“What’s fundamental here is that steady leadership is going to matter,” said Walz. “And the world saw it on that debate stage a few weeks ago, a nearly 80year-old Donald Trump talking about crowd sizes is not what we need in this moment.”

Vance, in his reply, argued that Trump is an intimidating figure whose presence on the international stage is its own deterrent.

“Gov. Walz can criticize Donald Trump’s tweets, but effective, smart diplomacy and peace through strength is how you bring stability back to a very broken world,” he said.

A sharper turn on immigration

The debate in New York hosted by CBS News opened with a sober tone that reflected growing domestic and international concerns about safety and security. But it gave way to sharper attacks from both Walz and Vance — and a moment in which the moderators stopped the discussion by cutting the two men’s mics.

Walz accused Vance and Trump of villainizing legal immigrants in Vance’s home state. He pointed to the fact that Republican Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine had to send in extra law enforcement to provide security to the city’s schools after Vance tweeted about and Trump amplified false claims about Haitians eating pets.

“This is what happens when you don’t want to solve it, you demonize it,” Walz said, saying not doing so would allow people to “come together.”

Vance said the 15,000 Haitians in the city had caused housing, economic and other issues that the Biden-Harris administration was ignoring.

When the debate moderators pointed out that the Haitians living there had legal status, Vance protested that CBS News had said its moderators would not be fact-checking, leaving the onus to the candidates. As Vance continued and the moderators tried to move on, his microphone was cut and neither man could be heard.

A heavier focus on policy

The senator and the governor, both picked for their ability to communicate their party’s points, seemed to spend more time talking policy than the presidential candidates have in their matchups.

On abortion, both men shared personal stories of women. Walz talked about Amanda Zurawski, a Texas woman who was denied an abortion despite developing a life-threatening infection, and Hadley Duvall, who was a 12-year-old girl when she was raped and impregnated by her stepfather.

Vance spoke of a close

friend who, he said, “told me something a couple of years ago that she felt like if she hadn’t had that abortion, that it would have destroyed her life because she was in an abusive relationship.”

The senator also said he never supported a national ban when running for the Senate in 2022 even though he had suggested as much, saying instead that he wanted a “minimum national standard.” Trump, meanwhile, posted on his social media site during the debate that he would veto a national abortion ban, though he has also taken credit for the Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade and clearing the way for conservative-led states to ban or restrict the procedure.

Walz and Vance also talked about housing policy, the economy and climate change in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which devastated several states and caused at least 160 deaths.

“I’m sure Gov. Walz joins me in saying our hearts go out to those innocent people. Our prayers go out to them,” Vance said, giving a far different answer than his running mate, who has accused Biden and Harris of politicizing the hurricane response. “And we want as robust and aggressive as a federal response as we can get to save as many lives as possible.”

The debate ran longer than the allotted 90 minutes, but there were still some key topics left unaddressed by the moderators and the candidates. Vance was not asked about Ukraine, although he’s among the Republican Party’s leading opponents of U.S. aid to the besieged country. No one talked about Trump’s criminal cases, including his conviction in a New York case related to hush money payments.

Vance downplays Jan. 6 Vance downplayed Trump’s assault on the 2020 election, saying Trump had told people to “peacefully” march on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. The subsequent violence by Trump’s supporters disrupted the certification of Joe Biden’s election victory.

The real threat to democracy, Vance claimed, was censorship of the opposition.

“We ought to debate our differences. We ought to argue about them. Kamala Harris is engaged in censorship on an industrial scale,” Vance said.

Walz said Vance was helping to deny “the first time in American history that a president or anyone tried to overturn a fair election and the peaceful transfer of power.”

He also asked Vance if Trump won the election in 2020.

“I’m focused on the future,” Vance responded.

“That is a damning nonanswer,” Walz said.

Both men acknowledged past missteps

The role of a presidential running mate is typically to serve as an attack dog for the person at the top of the ticket, arguing against the opposing presidential candidate and their proxy on stage. Both Vance and Walz have embraced that role.

But in a political era where apologies are rare, Walz and Vance each admitted missteps and vulnerabilities Tuesday.

Vance was asked to address his past biting criticisms of the

Community mourns loss of local mentor, nonprofit leader

Continued from A1

He grew up without his birth father, dropped out of high school following moves to Pennsylvania and back to Alabama, went through two failed marriages, struggled with drug addiction, served time in prison and became homeless.

Hicks said these experiences, though difficult, were crucial to him founding MBK in 2009. He believed they helped him better relate to other men’s struggles. The nonprofit, in his view, serves as a place for men to share hardships and build positive relationships.

Known as “Coach” to friends and those he aided over the years, Hicks helped mentor males age 13 and older through various group workshops, seminars and programs. From offering suits and job

training to recognizing clients with awards for their community contributions, boys and men have gained essential life skills through MBK.

“Once I asked him how was he so successful at engaging the young men, getting them to attend class and participate?”

Womack said. “‘Show them love, Nate’ he said. “‘Just show them love.’”

In addition to MBK, Hicks also worked with other local and state organizations, including the Virginia Family and Father Initiative, and held positions at John Tyler Community College and Virginia Commonwealth University. He was a dedicated church member and an ordained minister. He belonged to New Canaan International Church, which now also houses the offices of MBK.

former president, including once suggesting Trump would be “America’s Hitler.”

“When you get something wrong and you change your mind, you ought to be honest with the American people,” he said Tuesday.

Walz, meanwhile, was pressed on his misleading claim, which was investigated this week by Minnesota Public Radio and other outlets, that he was in Hong Kong during the turbulence surrounding the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, part of a broader pattern of inaccuracies that Republicans hope to exploit.

Confronted with his misstatements about his travels to

China years ago, Walz defended himself by saying, “I’ve not been perfect.” In fact, he said, “I’m a knucklehead at times.” Eventually, he acknowledged he misspoke about his history. Aside from the contentious exchange surrounding the attack on the Capitol, the debate featured more moments of good feeling than might have been expected. Walz said he’d “enjoyed tonight’s debate, and I think there was a lot of commonality here” before noting that he’s “sympathetic to misspeaking on things and I think I might have with the senator.” “Me too, man,” Vance responded.

NOTICE OF PROPOSED REAL PROPERTY TAX INCREASE

(Ref: Virginia Code § 58.1-3321)

The City of Richmond proposes to increase property tax levies.

1. Assessment Increase: Total assessed value of real property, excluding additional assessments due to new construction or improvements to property, exceeds last year’s total assessed value of real property by 6.68 percent.

2. Lowered Rate Necessary to Offset Increased Assessment: The tax rate which would levy the same amount of real estate tax as last year, when multiplied by the new total assessed value of real estate with the exclusions mentioned above, would be $1.136 per $100 of assessed value. This rate will be known as the “lowered tax rate.”

3. Effective Rate Increase: The City of Richmond proposes to adopt a tax rate of $1.20 per $100 of assessed value. The difference between the lowered tax rate and the proposed rate would be $0.064 per $100, or 5.6 percent. This difference will be known as the “effective tax rate increase.”

Individual property taxes may, however, increase at a percentage greater than or less than the above percentage.

4. Proposed Total Budget Increase: Based on the proposed real property tax rate and changes in other revenues, the total budget of the City of Richmond will exceed last year’s by 5.2 percent.

A public hearing on the increase will be held on October 15, 2024 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber, located at 900 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.

NOTICE OF PROPOSED REAL PROPERTY TAX INCREASE

(Ref: Virginia Code § 58.1-3321)

The City of Richmond proposes to increase property tax levies.

Hicks was preceded in death by his mother, sisters Angela Hicks and LaRonda Jones and stepfather York Hicks. He is survived by his wife, Monica L. HaynesHicks, daughters Shevelle Montgomery and Stephanie Hicks, granddaughters Tatum Montgomery and Camila Radinovic, his father, two sisters, four brothers and four stepchildren.

“Stephan gave everything he had to MBK. To use a sports analogy, he left it all on the field. He held nothing back,” said Haynes-Hicks, his wife of 10 years and MBK’s media director. “If everyone were this committed to solving the problems of the world, they’d be solved.”

A funeral for Hicks will be held 11 a.m. Oct. 11 at New Canaan International Church at 1708 Byron St., followed by a private interment.

3. Effective Rate Increase: The City of Richmond proposes to adopt a tax rate of $1.16 per $100 of assessed value. The difference between the lowered tax rate and the proposed rate would be $0.024 per $100, or 2.1 percent. This difference will be known as the “effective tax rate increase.”

Individual property taxes may, however, increase at a percentage greater than or less than the above percentage.

4. Proposed Total Budget Increase: Based on the proposed real property tax rate and changes in other revenues, the total budget of the City of Richmond will exceed last year’s by 3.6 percent.

A public hearing on the increase will be held on October 15, 2024 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber, located at 900 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.

Experts call for legislative action as homelessness surges among Richmond’s elderly

By Samantha Granados Capital News Service

Older adults age 55 and up accounted for 44% of the homeless population in the Greater Richmond Region, according to a recent annual count.

Homelessness in the region increased 20% from 2023, while older adult homelessness rose two percentage points, based on recent data collected by the Homeward VA point-intime count Older adults have vulnerabilities that don’t exist for other renters or homeowners, according to Benjamin Teresa, the director of RVA Eviction Lab. Limited income, medical costs, rising housing costs, evictions and more can all factor into the displacement of older adults.

Like others in the region, older adults face a lack of affordable housing and rising rents, but they have a fixed source of income from Social Security benefits or pensions, Teresa said. They often are unable to have two sources of income to support increased housing costs.

A growing trend is for people to work longer, well into their 60s or 70s, as an effort to afford their cost of living, according to Teresa.

Anything such as unexpected medical bills can impact finances and may lead to decisions like forgoing medication to pay rent, or paying medical bills and falling behind on rent, according to Teresa.

The number of single adults 50 or older who experience homelessness jumped from 11% in the early 1990s to approximately 37% in 2003, according to an article from the National Alliance to End Homelessness. That percentage then gradually rose to almost 50% in the 2020s.

High property taxes add more burden, Teresa said. Low-income seniors cannot maintain the spike in taxes when a home’s value increases over time, often from neighborhood development and sometimes gentrification.

They even continue to live in unsafe or unhealthy housing conditions because they cannot afford the maintenance. Deteriorating homes are often foreclosed or “predatory investors” buy the home for much less than it’s worth, which creates housing instability, according to Teresa.

“It’s really important for the city to be investing in affordable housing that would certainly help seniors and help all renters,” Teresa said.

Emergency rental assistance was successful during the pandemic but post-pandemic eviction filings have increased as assistance stopped. Good quality and higher paying jobs are crucial to help

afford housing costs, according to Teresa.

“Housing problems are not just housing problems,” Teresa said.

Leading cause of evictions for older adults

Olivia Seksinsky, a staff attorney at the Central Virginia Legal Aid Society, works exclusively for eviction defense. Almost 32% of tenants she represented since 2021 are over the age of 55, she said.

Lawyers with the organization provide free civil legal services and education to low-income individuals in need, according to its website.

The leading cause of eviction for older adults is the lack of affordable housing and landlords “stringency” with a tenant’s rental history records, Seksinsky said. Prior evictions tarnish records and a tenant’s credibility, which can hinder the homing process.

“Eviction leads to homelessness just because it kind of can close you out of a lot of new housing options,” Seksinsky said.

Although housing assistance for older adults is available, it is “harder to come by now,” because the need is so widespread, according to Seksinsky.

Older adults may have health concerns, mainly mobility issues, that make it harder to move out before the eviction process starts, she said.

Legislative changes experts say could help

Seksinsky hoped the failed House Bill 721 which focused on rent control, would pass earlier this year to help deter eviction filings. It was the third time Del. Nadarius Clark, D-Suffolk, introduced similar legislation to stabilize rent. Lawmakers wanted to see some research or maybe a pilot program.

“When the landlord has no limit to how often they can raise the rent … the landlord can keep raising the rent,” Seksinsky said. “It eventually becomes impossible to afford unless that senior citizen is then forced to go back to work or borrow money.”

A rent cap and more advocacy for public assistance programs will help, specifically with moving costs to transition when affordable housing is needed, Seksinsky said.

LeadingAge Virginia is an association of nonprofits that provide senior housing, assisted living, nursing homes, adult day centers and home and community-based services to older adults, according to its website

The association advocates for legislation that improves the affordability and accessibility of high-quality housing for older adults, according to Vice President and Legislative Counsel for

LeadingAge Virginia, Dana Parsons. Its legislative priorities include increasing funding, enacting regulatory reforms to streamline development, and integrating supportive services to ensure full care within these com-

munities, according to Parsons. “Stable housing is key to preserving dignity, improving health outcomes, ensuring economic stability, and fostering strong community support,” Parsons stated.

Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

A former homeless encampment in Richmond near the Richmond Justice Center.

Richmond Free Press

October 3-5,

Shot caller

Hey, Joe. We haven’t forgotten about you, our 46th president. There’s something I’d like to bring to your attention, I’m sure you have a little more time on your hands these days than you probably expected to a few months ago, so perhaps you can squeeze me in.

By the way, I thought Dana Carvey’s portrayal of you on the season premiere of NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” was a little mean-spirited and not too funny. Sometimes people can parody too far, and that show is having a hard time creating satire about this absurd political era we’re living in.

But back to the thing. As many people know, the new COVID-19 booster came out a few weeks ago.This one is different from its predecessors in that it is equipped to fight off the more recent variants that have been causing problems. It’s also different for another reason. If you are an uninsured person, then this will be the first COVID-19 vaccine that you pay for at your local pharmacy And, to use your parlance – it ain’t cheap. The shot is comparable to the cost of smartwatch, air fryer or wireless earbuds – $200.

“This means that purely uninsured people do not have access to get free Covid shots,” said Lori Freeman, chief executive officer for the National Association of County and City Health Officials. “We know that cost, at this moment in time with the economy, is even more of a burden than ever.”

She’s right and the approximately 26 million people in the U.S. who are uninsured would likely agree. Many of the uninsured are people of color, according to a report from KFF, an independent source for health policy research, polling and news, and would be more likely to feel the impact of this change. According to KFF: “Disparities in coverage persisted as of 2022. Non-elderly AIAN and Hispanic people had the highest uninsured rates at 19.1% and 18%, respectively as of 2022. Uninsured rates for non-elderly Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander (12.7%) and Black people (10.0%) also were higher than the rate for their White counterparts (6.6%).”

Joe, I know you remember how we got here, but let me go over it one more time.

In the early days of the pandemic, vaccines were purchased by the federal government and given away for free. Last year, the shots moved to the commercial market and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Bridge Access Program still provided free COVID-19 vaccines to adults without insurance and to those whose insurance didn’t fully cover it. Federal funding for this program ran out last month and it stopped.

COVID-19 levels are high and rising, according to wastewater surveillance data from the CDC. We can’t afford to have some of the most vulnerable people in our country, those without health insurance, to also be put further at risk by putting a hefty price tag on viral immunity. Joe, we can’t afford to go backward in our fight against COVID-19. There must be a way to fund this program. Let’s continue the fight.

Hope after Helene

We are stunned by the devastation left by Hurricane Helene. Particularly, the damage left in western North Carolina, which defies explanation. Roads, houses, businesses have been demolished, leaving areas unrecognizable. Emergency Services Assistant Director Ryan Cole told the Citizen-Times in Asheville that “catastrophic devastation” didn’t describe the hurricane’s impact.

“I would go a little bit further and say we have biblical devastation through the county,” Cole said. “We’ve had biblical flooding here and it has been extremely significant.”

This was an area that was once thought to be immune from the effects of climate change. The death toll, spread across six states, stood at 128 earlier this week. Fifty-six of those deaths were in North Carolina.

As the cleanup begins, so does the chance to rebuild — not only homes and businesses, but an understanding of our relationship with the environment. Things have changed. It’s time to reconsider our infrastructure and prepare for a future where such events may become more frequent – and closer to home.

Great Shiplock Park in East End

Harris’ appeal serves as a bridge between generations

It is refreshing to see a leader like Vice President Kamala Harris who understands the generation gap we have in our nation. There always will be situations where older and younger people maintain different perspectives on life and the nation’s future based on their experiences, opinions, habits and behavior.

most authentic form of media,” said Yalda Uhls, founder and CEO of the UCLA Center for Scholars & Storytellers. “Our data shows that young people are very engaged with what’s happening in the political sphere around them, and keeping up with the news seems to be influencing their desire to vote for Kamala Harris.”

of the Harris campaign.”

Harris’ candidacy for president serves as a bridge between generations and has effectively found ways to close the gap in a relatively short time. Almost half of Gen Z (ages 16–27) respondents in a UCLA study said they were not motivated to vote at all in the 2024 presidential election prior to Kamala Harris’ nomination. In addition, 29% of Gen Z respondents who said they were not motivated to vote in the upcoming election before the change in the Democratic nominee say they are now motivated to vote for Harris.

The vice president’s campaign has a notable social media presence. It is through this presence she has successfully inspired undecided voters. “Young adults are increasingly getting news from TikTok, reporting social media as the

For young people interested in voting for Harris, her identity as a woman of color was

David W. Marshall

not a large motivating factor. Of Gen Z respondents, 82% cited reasons other than Harris’ racial or gender identity when explaining their support for her.

Some respondents agreed with her stance on the issues; they see her as an exciting candidate that gives hope, and some liked what they learned about her on social media.

“Contrary to Republican messaging about Kamala Harris being a DEI hire, young people seem more excited about her candidacy because of the tone and substance of her campaign rather than because of her race, ethnicity or gender,” said Alisha Hines, the center’s director of research from its 2023 Teens and Screens Report, which showed that young people are overwhelming interested in stories of hope—a defining mood

Young people are distancing themselves from the political polarization we’ve become accustomed to seeing during previous election cycles. Harris has shown a unique ability to assess different demographics’ true needs and concerns and then meet them at their point of need. Like older generations before them, Gen Zers and millennials (ages 28–40) should be able to have hope in their futures while pursuing the “American dream,” allowing a new wave of younger leaders who understand the challenges of their peers to articulate to the American people.

Harris’ ability to be flexible when dealing with various demographics while still being authentic is a character trait that draws the support of young people. President Biden had the right message but was not the most effective messenger. Harris also is unique because she is an HBCU graduate. Just as she has found ways of successfully motivating and inspiring Gen Zers through social media, she also can connect with young Black voters from HBCUs in ways other candidates cannot.

The Harris-Walz campaign will kick off an HBCU Homecoming Tour across the battleground states of North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Virginia and Pennsylvania to reach Black Gen Z voters. The tour will

A leadership vacuum

give special recognition to HBCUs. As a graduate of Howard University, she understands the cultural significance behind the HBCU homecoming. Homecoming is a special time of year for students and alumni on HBCU campuses. If Harris becomes president of the United States, there will be a sense of special pride in having someone from Howard University hold the highest office in the nation. It is the type of pride shared with all HBCU students and alums, not just those from Howard. As a Norfolk State University graduate, I will also share in the proud moment of her election, as well as the journey of her historic campaign. The writer is founder of the faith-based organization TRB: The Reconciled Body and author of the book “God Bless Our Divided America.”

The Wilder School at Virginia Commonwealth University recently held a symposium, led by Wilder School Dean Susan T. Gooden. The subject was “Elections 2024: The Importance of Listening to the People.” Panelists included: Bob Holsworth, managing partner of the consulting firm DecideSmart and founding director of the Wilder School; Larry Sabato, founder and director of the University of Virginia Center for Politics; Dr. Susan Gooden; and Robyn McDougle, associate dean of research and outreach at the Wilder School. They collectively laid out the most vital issues and challenges of the people. The responses from the packed audience demonstrated the need for further discussion regarding an absence of leadership in public service.

We explored a range of topics, including those directly impacting VCU, such as: wasteful spending, restrictions on campus demonstrations and unprecedented inquiries into social equity curricula. Our students in attendance echoed their concern and willingness to demonstrate and demand the necessary changes to ensure their freedom of expression

and support for doing what is right. As I have long said, when the “thing” is right, the time is right.

My concluding message at the event summated the situation in which we find ourselves: Politicians do what is demanded of them, not asked. If they don’t

listen, they should not remain in office.

I have long spoken of the need for those appointed to or in elected positions to be accountable and responsible to the people.

Examples of this absence are shown on a ready basis without any correlative explanation to the people. Yet, we are asked to cast our votes for those whose voices are silent.

When I am approached by those asking to be elected, or further advanced, my response is always, “What have you done? What have you tried to do? Why should I vote for you?

There are enough examples of government waste, local, state, and national, that one doesn’t have to go far to provide them. Increased costs for taxpayers with decreased services are consistent detriments that exacerbate the problem.

When estimates as high as $100 million dollars of waste

by VCU, a taxpayer-funded institution, are made public, you would expect an immediate and thorough explanation, as the people have clearly demanded.

Yet, there has been NONE.

I know what should be done and what could be done, because I’ve devoted years of my life doing just that.

The people want their phone calls returned, emails answered, and issues addressed, with integrity and transparency. This should be done — not just during election cycles — but on a continuous basis.

The voices of the people must be heard “from the courthouse to the White House.” We have the fullest opportunity to do that, at all levels of government.

The cost of living, the economy, public safety, education, health care, immigration, and more are perennial issues that affect all people. Our problems will not be resolved by elections — only through the performance of those so empowered by the people.

The people, ultimately, speak with their votes. And when those who have been entrusted to represent them fail to do so, elections provide the opportunity for change.

The writer is the nation’s first black elected governor, Virginia’s first black lieutenant governor and a former state senator.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

L. Douglas Wilder

Commentaries

For a thriving Richmond, start at home

For more than 20 years, my wife, Mary Kay, and I have raised our family in Richmond’s East End. It’s the place where we cheered on our kids as they played soccer for the Powhatan Community Center, made lifelong friends sitting on our neighbors’ porches, and connected with families at regular events at Chimborazo Elementary School. But for too many people – residents who have lived here for generations and newcomers alike – the neighborhood we love calling home is becoming unaffordable and out of reach.

Church Hill isn’t alone. Recent Harvard University dat a reveals about one in three Richmond households pays more than 30% of their incomes on their mortgage or rent. It’s a term researchers call “cost burdened” and affects a family’s ability to pay for other important living costs like food and transportation.

The impacts on communities of color are even more troubling. Black and Latino families are more likely to face cost burdens by rental s while Black homeowners face distressing home value disparitie s, fueled by decades of racial discrimination and redlining.

But you don’t really need reports or statistics to know we’re in a housing crisis – just look down the block. High housing costs are displacing too many residents.

It’s a trend I’m fighting to reverse in Richmond.

I launched my mayoral campaign earlier this year with a deep passion to serve our

incredible city. Since then, we’ve heard from thousands of residents about their top concerns, which mirror the reasons I’m running, like improving schools and city operations, boosting job opportunities, and most resoundingly, addressing our accelerating housing crisis.

Danny Avula

I recently released a detailed pla n with policies to create more affordable housing in Richmond focused on transparency, community feedback and sustainable growth that benefits us all.

We must get this right. As a pediatrician and public health leader, I know one of the top predictors of families’ well-being and quality of life comes down to something we all deserve to have: safe, stable and affordable housing.

The truth is, too few new housing units built in recent years are actually affordable. I’m ready to implement policies that facilitate large-scale investments that expand supply in Richmond with an emphasis on deeply affordable housing for people with annual incomes under $50,000. For starters, I’m prepared to put additional money into the Maggie Walker Community Land Trust to acquire more vacant properties and create housing units that are permanently affordable.

The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority provides public housing units or housing vouchers to nearly 7,500 households. Conditions in the 3,200 RRHA-managed properties are simply unacceptable: We must expand funding for operations and maintenance to give residents higher quality housing. RRHA communities deserve it. I am committed to one-for-one replacement, and to working closely with RRHA to ensure that residents are at the table for these decisions, just as I did when I was the city’s public health director as we established resource centers clinics in RRHA communities.

It’s essential we keep long-term Richmonders in their homes. The families in neighborhoods like Church Hill, Jackson Ward, Fulton, Carver and so many others across our city, helped to create the culture and community that makes Richmond special and a wonderful place to live. We can’t let these families be priced or taxed out of their homes. I’m prepared to help more seniors access the existing property tax assistance program and work with the General Assembly to design more effective tax structures that can protect long-term and low-income residents.

Richmond’s eviction rate continues to be one of the highest in the nation. We know evictions keep families locked in poverty and make it extremely difficult to find future housing. We’ll work to strengthen protections and resources available by expanding the Eviction Diversion and Family Crisis Fund to prevent

far-reaching and life-altering evictions. When it comes down to it, we need to retain more residents and attract new families to Richmond to expand and strengthen our tax base, which gives us the opportunity to grow revenues to invest in more affordable housing programs, our schools and other citywide priorities. We need to sustain and bolster the City’s program providing down payment support for employees to include our hard-working Richmond Public Schools teachers as well. We have the capacity to build more affordable housing across our 62 square miles by leveraging zoning opportunities to construct additional multi-family housing projects, accessory dwelling units and other lower-cost housing. Every step of the way, we’ll prioritize and center community feedback and needs while expanding access to green spaces, grocery stores, health care and transportation.

I’m prepared to work alongside Richmond’s residents, our nonprofit community, regional partners, state officials and City Council to bring this plan to life. I’ve spent my career solving complicated problems that have made our city a safer and healthier place, and we’re going to need everyone at the table to get this done. The reality is many of my colleagues are running on similar housing platforms, but the difference is I’m the person with the experience and skills to get it done. The writer is a pediatrician and Richmond mayoral candidate.

As a former captain in the United States Marine Corps, a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, a former prosecutor, and an advocate for public safety reform, I have dedicated my life to upholding the principles of justice and democracy. With just weeks away from Election Day 2024, and many participating in early voting, I am compelled to speak on an issue that is fundamental to our nation’s core: Defending democracy and upholding the integrity of our electoral process.

In recent years, we have witnessed concerted efforts

to undermine voting rights and restrict equal access to the ballot box. These actions threaten the very foundation of the American democratic system. Every eligible citizen should have the right to vote, and it is our collective duty to ensure that this right is protected.

The Freedom to Vote Act

(FTVA) and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act Amendment (JLVRAA) are critical pieces of legislation that, in tandem, must be passed to safeguard our democracy. The FTVA addresses several key issues that threaten the integrity of our elections, such as gerrymandering, voter suppres-

sion, and the influence of dark money in politics. By setting national standards for voting access, the FTVA will ensure that every citizen has equal access to the ballot. This is particularly important for marginalized communities, including justice-involved Americans, who have historically faced barriers to voting. Congress has found that more than 6% of our voting-age African American population, or 1,800,000 African Americans, are disenfranchised due to a felony conviction. The FTVA restores voting rights to individuals who

have served their time and are re-entering society. As the founder of the Virginia Holistic Justice Initiative, I understand the importance of second chances and the value of reintegration. Those who have paid their debt to society should not continue to be disenfranchised.

The JLVRAA is equally as important. The JLVRAA aims to restore and strengthen the protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. It strengthens legal protections against discriminatory voting policies and practices.

We need congressional leaders who are committed to standing up for our democracy.

Virginia’s own Sen. Tim Kaine has been a champion for voting rights, demonstrating his support for both bills, and his leadership exemplifies the type of commitment we need from our elected officials.

As Vice President Harris mentioned during her address to the Democratic National Convention, no matter what issue matters most to you –whether it be criminal justice reform, the environment, or the economy – voting is the

Explanation for ProposedConstitutionalAmendment

key that unlocks our collective freedoms and ensures your voice is heard. With this, and the futures of my two young daughters in mind, we must recognize that defending democracy is simply an American issue. The right to vote for all Americans is the backbone of our democratic system, and we must come together to support these essential pieces of legislation and prioritize the integrity of our elections. The writer is a local attorney and public safety reform advocate.

Explanation for ProposedConstitutionalAmendment to Be Voted On at the November 5, 2024, Election

Explanation for ProposedConstitutionalAmendment to Be Voted On at the November 5, 2024, Election PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

Explanation for ProposedConstitutionalAmendment to Be Voted On at the November 5, 2024, Election

ARTICLE X.TaxationandFinance.

PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

Section6-A.Propertytaxexemptionfor;certainveterans andtheirsurvivingspouses and; surviving

of soldiers killed in action who died in the line of duty.

ARTICLE X.TaxationandFinance.

PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

Section6-A.Propertytaxexemptionfor;certainveterans andtheirsurvivingspouses and; surviving spouses of soldiers killed in action who died in the line of duty.

BALLOT QUESTION

Section6-A.Propertytaxexemptionfor;certainveterans andtheirsurvivingspouses and; surviving spouses of soldiers killed in action who died in the line of duty.

ARTICLE X.TaxationandFinance.

BALLOT QUESTION

ARTICLE X.TaxationandFinance.

BALLOT QUESTION

Section6-A.Propertytaxexemptionfor;certainveterans andtheirsurvivingspouses surviving spouses of soldiers killed in action who died in the line of duty.

Shouldthe Constitutionof Virginia be amended so that the tax exemptionthatis currently available to the surviving spouses of soldiers killed in action is also available to the surviving spouses of soldiers who died in the line of duty?

EXPLANATION FORVOTERS

Section6-A.Propertytaxexemptionfor;certainveterans andtheirsurvivingspouses surviving spouses of soldiers killed in action who died in the line of duty.

PresentLaw

BALLOT QUESTION

PresentLaw

BALLOT QUESTION

EXPLANATION FORVOTERS

Generally,the VirginiaConstitutionrequiresthatallproperty betaxed.Italso sets out specific types of property that may be exempted from taxation. Currently, the Virginia Constitution allows the General Assembly to exempt from taxation the principal place of residence of the surviving spouse of any soldier who

Shouldthe Constitutionof Virginia be amended so that the tax exemptionthatis currently to the surviving spouses of soldiers killed in action is also available to the surviving soldiers who died in the line of duty?

ProposedAmendment

PresentLaw

ProposedAmendment

The proposed amendment would expand this current tax exemption so that it is availableto all surviving spouses of soldiers who are

ProposedAmendment

EXPLANATION FORVOTERS

The proposed amendment would expand this current tax exemption so that it is availableto all surviving spouses of soldiers who are determined by the U.S. Department of Defense to have died in the line of duty, including those who have been killed in action.

EXPLANATION FORVOTERS

available to the surviving spouses of soldiers who are killed in action.

A "yes"vote would allow the surviving spouse of a soldierwho died in the line of duty to claim the same real property tax exemption on their principal place of residence that is currently only available to the surviving spouses of soldiers who are killed in action.

FULLTEXT OF AMENDMENT

A "no" vote will not allow such additional surviving spouses to claim the real property tax exemption.

FULLTEXT OF AMENDMENT

"no"

[Proposed new language is underlined. Deletedold languageisstricken.]

exemption.

Generally,the VirginiaConstitutionrequiresthatallproperty betaxed.Italso sets out types of property that may be exempted from taxation. Currently, the Virginia Constitution allows the General Assembly to exempt from taxation the principal place of residence surviving spouse of any soldier who is determined bythe U.S. Department of Defense been killed in action.

[Proposed new language is underlined. Deletedold

FULLTEXT OF AMENDMENT

A "no" vote will not allow such additional surviving spouses to claim the real property tax exemption.

[Proposed new language is underlined. Deletedold languageisstricken.]

ARTICLE X TAXATION ANDFINANCE

A "no" vote will not allow such additional surviving spouses to claim the real property tax exemption.

ARTICLE X TAXATION ANDFINANCE

Section 6-A.Propertytax exemptionfor;certainveterans and their surviving spousesand; surviving spouses of soldiers killed in actionwho died in the line of duty.

ProposedAmendment

(a)NotwithstandingtheprovisionsofSection6,theGeneralAssemblybygenerallaw,and within the restrictions and conditions prescribed therein, shall exempt from taxation the real property, including the joint real property of husband and wife, of any veteran who has been determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its successor agency pursuant to federal law to have a one hundred percent service-connected, permanent, and total disability, and who occupies the real property as his or her principal place of residence. The General Assembly shall also provide this exemption from taxation for real property owned by the surviving spouse of a veteran who waseligiblefor theexemption provided in thissubdivision, so longasthe surviving spouse does not remarry. This exemption applies to the surviving spouse's principal place of residence without any restriction on the spouse's moving to a different principal place of residence.

Section 6-A.Propertytax exemptionfor;certainveterans and their surviving spousesand; surviving spouses of soldiers killed in actionwho died in the line of duty.

The proposed amendment would expand this current tax exemption so that it is availableto surviving spouses of soldiers who are determined by the U.S. Department of Defense died in the line of duty, including those who have been killed in action.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 6, the General Assembly by general law, and within the restrictions and conditions prescribed therein, may exempt from taxation the real property of the surviving spouse of any member of the armed forces of the United States who was killed in action as determined bydied in the line of duty with a Line of Duty determination from the United States Department of Defense, who occupies the real property as his or her principal

forces of the United States who was killed in action as determined bydied in the line of duty with a Line of Duty determination from the United States Department of Defense, who occupies the real property as his or her principal place of residence. The exemption under this subdivision shall cease if the surviving spouse remarries

A "yes"vote would allow the surviving spouse of a soldierwho died in the line of duty the same real property tax exemption on their principal place of residence that is currently available to the surviving spouses of soldiers who are killed in action.

A "no" vote will not allow such additional surviving spouses to claim the real property exemption.

Tom Barbour

Dikembe Mutombo, a Hall of Fame player and tireless advocate, dies at 58 from brain cancer

By Tim Reynolds

The Associated Press

Dikembe Mutombo, a Basketball Hall of Famer who was one of the best defensive players in NBA history and a longtime global ambassador for the game, died Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, from brain cancer, the league announced. He was 58. His family revealed two years ago that he was undergoing treatment in Atlanta for a brain tumor. The NBA said he died surrounded by his family.

“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. “On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others.”

Mutombo was distinctive in so many ways — the playful finger wag at opponents after blocking their shots, his height, his deep and gravelly voice, his massive smile. Players of this generation were always drawn to him and Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid, who was born in Cameroon, looked to Mutombo as an inspiration.

“It’s a sad day, especially for us Africans, and really the whole world,” Embiid said Monday. “Other than what he’s accomplished on the basketball court, I think he was even better off the court. He’s one of the guys that I look up to, as far as having an impact, not just on the court, but off the court. He’s done a lot of great things. He

did a lot of great things for a lot of people. He was a role model of mine. It is a sad day.”

Mutombo spent 18 seasons in the NBA, playing for Denver, Atlanta, Houston, Philadelphia, New York and the then-New Jersey Nets. The 7-foot-2 center out of Georgetown was an eighttime All-Star, three-time All-NBA selection and went into the Hall of Fame in 2015 after averaging 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game for his career.

He also was part of one of the league’s most iconic playoff moments, helping eighth-seeded Denver oust top-seeded Seattle in the first round of the 1994 Western Conference playoffs. That best-of-five series marked the first time a No. 8 beat a No. 1 in NBA history.

“It’s really hard to believe,” Toronto President Masai Ujiri said Monday, pausing several times because he was overcome with emotion shortly after hearing the news of Mutombo’s death. “It’s hard for us to be without that guy. You have no idea what Dikembe Mutombo meant to me. ... That guy, he made us who we are. That guy is a giant, an incredible person.”

Mutombo last played during the 2008-09 season, devoting his time after retirement to charitable and humanitarian causes. He spoke nine languages and founded the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation in 1997, concentrating on improving health, education and quality of life for the people in the Congo.

Ryan Mutombo, the Hall of Famer’s son, said in a tribute posted on social media that his father

off an opponent’s attempt to slow her pace as VCU extended its unbeaten streak to five games in the 1-1 draw against St. Bonaventure at Sports Backers Stadium.

VCU women’s soccer extends unbeaten streak

Free Press staff report

The Virgnia Commonwealth University Women’s Soccer team extended their unbeaten streak to five games after a 1-1 draw against St. Bonaventure in Atlantic 10 play on Sunday at Sports Backers Stadium. VCU remains undefeated in conference action with a 1-0-3 record.

VCU, now with a 2-6-3 overall record, struck early when Y-Van Nguyen scored her second goal of the season in the second minute, becoming the second Ram to record multiple goals this year. St. Bonaventure’s Evie Underhill responded in the 29th minute to level the score, sending the game into a deadlock that would last through the final whistle.

The Rams recorded a season-high 17 shots, with Milica Bulatovic leading the charge with four. VCU dominated possession, holding 51% of the ball, though only 11% of that time was spent in its defensive zone. In goal, sophomore Mia Pongratz made her third appearance, recording her first save of the season after replacing Allison Karpovich with 16 minutes left in the match. Despite several late attempts, including Bulatovic’s last shot on target in the 83rd minute, VCU was unable to break through a resolute St. Bonaventure defense that blocked five consecutive shots in the final 15 minutes.

Pongratz came up big with a critical save in the 88th minute, denying St. Bonaventure’s Mahelie Barbeau in the final attempt of the match. The result leaves VCU with a five-game unbeaten streak, their longest since Head Coach Lindsey Martin’s squad went 14 games without a loss in 2022.

VCU will open its October schedule with a home match against Loyola Chicago at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, at Sports Backers Stadium. The game will be streamed live on ESPN+.

“loved others with every ounce of his being.”

“My dad is my hero because he simply cared,” Ryan Mutombo wrote. “He remains the purest heart I have ever known.”

Mutombo served on the boards of many organizations, including Special Olympics International, the CDC Foundation and the National Board for the U.S. Fund for UNICEF.

“There was nobody more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA’s first Global Ambassador,” Silver said. “He was a humanitarian at his core. He loved what the game of basketball could do to make a positive impact on communities, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the continent of Africa.”

Mutombo is one of three players to win the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year four times.

The others: reigning winner Rudy Gobert of the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Hall of Famer Ben Wallace.

“He was always there to talk to me and advise me on how to approach the season and take care of my body and icing after games and stretching and trying different things like yoga,” Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo said. “He will be always remembered and may his soul rest in peace.”

Philadelphia 76ers President Daryl Morey — who was with Mutombo for many seasons in Houston — was informed of his friend’s death during the team’s media day Monday. Tears welled in Morey’s eyes as he processed the news.

“There aren’t many guys like him,” Morey said. “Just a great human being. When I was a rookie GM in this league, my first chance in Houston, he was someone I went to all the time. ... His accomplishments on the court, we don’t need to talk about too much. Just an amazing human being, what he did off the court for Africa. Rest in peace, Dikembe.”

VUU Panthers dominate Shaw University in Willard Bailey Classic

Free Press staff report

The Virginia Union University Panthers showcased a commanding performance in the Willard Bailey Classic, overwhelming Shaw University 42-7 on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Willie Lanier Field at Hovey Stadium.

The Panthers’ offense was firing on all cylinders, led by standout performances from running back Jada Byers and quarterback Mark Wright. Byers, who was named the game’s Offensive MVP, rushed for a remarkable 173 yards. Wright complemented the ground game with an aerial assault, passing for 277 yards and three touchdowns.

VUU’s offensive onslaught featured touchdowns from multiple players. Byers and teammate Curtis Allen both found the end zone on rushing plays, while Reginald Vick, Jr., Ricky Key, Jr. and Jaehlan Joyner each caught touchdown passes.

The game statistics tell a story of VUU’s dominance. The Panthers outgained Shaw by a staggering margin, 601 yards to 268. VUU’s air attack accounted for 294 yards, compared to Shaw’s 125, while their ground game racked up 324 yards to

Shaw’s 143.

VUU controlled the clock, holding the ball for 35:55 compared to Shaw’s 24:05. The Panthers converted four of nine third downs, while Shaw managed three of 10. Both teams struggled with discipline, with VUU incurring 10 penalties for 105 yards and Shaw six for 45 yards.

The Panthers’ defense was equally impressive, with Jabril

Norman earning the Defensive MVP title for his contributions to holding Shaw to just seven points and limiting their offensive production.

VUU Coach Alvin Parker expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance. “We played Panther football today,” Parker said. “The guys did all the things right today, especially the small things. That’s been missing the prior couple of weeks, but they did it right today, and that turned into success.”

This victory brings VUU’s season record to 2-2 overall and 1-0 in CIAA play. The Panthers will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Winston-Salem State University in their next game. VUU will face WinstonSalem State University at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at home on Lombardy Street.

Virginia State bounces back with 35-18 win over Fayetteville State

Free Press staff report

After two consecutive losses, Virginia State University (2-2, 1-0 CIAA) returned to the win column with a 35-18 victory over Fayetteville State (2-2, 1-1 CIAA) on Saturday, Sept. 28. The Trojans used a strong offensive performance led by quarterback Romelo Williams and wide receiver Kevin Gayles to secure the conference win.

Fayetteville State opened the scoring on its first drive, marching down the field in five minutes to take an early 7-0 lead. Virginia State struggled on its first possession, leading to a punt, but defensive back KJ McNeil intercepted a tipped pass, setting up the Trojans in Fayetteville territory. On the very next play, Williams connected with Gayles for an 18-yard touchdown, tying the game at 7-7.

The remainder of the first quarter saw both teams exchange punts. Early in the second quarter, the Trojans capitalized on an

eight-play drive, with Jimmyll Williams punching in a 4-yard touchdown to give VSU a 14-7 lead. Fayetteville State responded by intercepting a Romelo Williams pass but could only manage a field goal, narrowing the gap to 14-10. VSU then struck back quickly, as Williams found Gayles for a 63-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 21-10 at halftime.

In the third quarter, with five minutes left, Williams and Gayles connected again, this time for a 68-yard touchdown, making it 28-10. Shortly after, Tayshaun Porter caught a 17-yard touchdown pass on the first play of the fourth quarter, extending the lead to 35-10. Fayetteville State managed a late touchdown and 2-point conversion, but the 35-18 deficit proved insurmountable. Romelo Williams finished the game 10-of-16 for 231 yards and four touchdowns, three of which went to Gayles. Jimmyll Williams led the rushing attack with 76 yards and a score. Virginia State will look to continue its winning momentum when they face Johnson C. Smith at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, in Charlotte, N.C.

AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File Retired Denver Nuggets center Dikembe Mutombo waves to the crowd as his jersey number is retired by the team during halftime of the Nuggets’ basketball game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Oct. 29, 2016, in Denver.

Photo VCU Athletics

Y-Van Nguyen, left, fights

James Haskins/Richmond Free Press

Fullback Jaehlan Joyner (42) dives into the end zone for a touchdown. The Virginia Union Panthers would go on to defeat the Shaw University Bears 42-7.

Personality: Amiri Jamil Daniel Richardson-Keys

Artist Amiri Jamil Daniel Richardson-Keys draws inspiration from the essence of the Black family, respecting and valuing their contribution to his art.

So it’s no surprise that Venture Richmond commissioned his artwork to represent the 36th Annual 2nd Street Festival.

He credits his mother, a clinical social worker and a single parent, for who he’s become — as an artist, husband and father. Although he had role models in a short-term stepfather and the men in his Highland Park church community, he recognizes the sacrifices his mother made and her profound influence on his artistic journey. When he describes his mother, who designed jewelry, made doll clothing and sketched, he has nothing but praise.

“My mother was amazing,” Richardson-Keys said. “She had such a gentle spirit. She was loving, nurturing and compassionate to everyone.”

Spotlight on the 2024 official 2nd Street Festival poster commissioned artist Festival returns this weekend

Richardson-Keys and his wife co-founded Artists Revealed Through Service (A.R.T.S.), a community center in Midlothian that fosters artistic exploration and personal growth.

Established in 2009, ARTS offers diverse classes for all age groups, from children to seniors. The couple left their corporate careers to dedicate themselves to this communityfocused venture.

The couple lives in Chesterfield and partners with Richmond and Chesterfield schools for after-school art programming and mentoring. They have six children, and the two oldest work alongside them at the ARTS Community Center. An artistic and mentorship component runs throughout the activities and programs — whether it’s the homeschool collective, child care, before and after school

care or summer programs for middle and high schoolers.

“My wife and I grew up through Parks & Recreation in Richmond,” he said. “We wanted to create a space where our kids could experience the same thing — people who look like them in a space where they could be seen for who they are culturally and creatively.”

Meet the community and family-focused 2024 official 2nd Street Festival poster artist and this week’s Personality, Amiri Jamil Daniel RichardsonKeys:

Occupation: Co-owner/operator of The A.R.T.S. Community Center.

Date and place of birth: March 6 in Richmond.

Where I live now: Chesterfield.

Education: Bachelor’s in fine arts, VCU; pursuing a master’s in art therapy from George Washington University.

Family: Wife, Cindy Richardson-Keys, six children, a daughter-in-love and two grandsons.

The 2nd Street Festival: A celebration of Black culture’s past, present and future in Richmond. The weekend is filled with creativity, love, connection and rich experiences for the entire family. It celebrates the love that Jackson Ward and Richmond fed our ancestors and continues the legacy of enriching our elders and children.

Dates of the two-day festival: Oct. 5 and 6.

Application process to become a commissioned poster artist for the 2nd Street Festival: Each year, the Venture Richmond Committee selects an artist from various creatives nominated by community mem

bers. The chosen artist is then commissioned to create a piece of artwork that gives their interpretation of the culture and spirit of the 2nd Street Festival.

Inspiration for my poster artwork: My memories of the 2nd Street Festival date back to when I was a child. My mother and aunts would take my brother, cousins, and me every year. It was a time when we were exposed to the Black culture and history of Jackson Ward. I remember African dancers and drummers marching through the crowds as a child, offering the energy of our African ancestors.

My reaction to being named the official 2024 2nd Street Festival artist: As a native of Richmond, I was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. It is an honor to create a piece of art representing a monumental event.

My creative process: Coming up with a final sketch was not difficult because of my experi-

ences attending the festival for the last 30 years. I wanted to represent movement and music in the piece.

Timeline: It took me about two weeks to create the final piece.

Committee guidelines: To create from within and express my interpretation of the 2nd Street Festival.

How my background influences my art: Being raised by a single Black woman allowed me to see Black women’s resilience, profound beauty, and strength and understand the importance of family. This experience inspired me to use Black women and children as my subjects —paying homage to the Black family.

How I hope my art inspires others: I hope to encourage dialogue, healing, and empowerment within the African American community, reinforcing the importance of unity, love and self-discovery. Art is a powerful tool for sparking change and affirming our worth, and I am honored to contribute to this ongoing conversation.

Where Richmonders can engage with my art outside of the poster: They can view my work in exhibitions around Virginia and at amiri.life.

How I start the day: I start my day by writing in my gratitude journal, followed by meditation and prayer, which have been essential to my practice, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. I also like to go to the gym at least two or three times a week.

Three words that best describe me: Love, creative and valor.

Best late-night snack: Skinny Pop.

On my playlist: Common, PJ Morton and Buju Banton.

A quote that inspires me: “Any form of art is a form of power. It has impact. It can affect change. It can not only move us; it makes us move.” — Ossie Davis.

The best thing my mom taught me: My mom told me to be my authentic self and never compare myself to others.

Most influential person: My mother, aunts, and grandmother profoundly impacted me by instilling core principles and values that give us strength and encouragement to believe

in ourselves and know who we came from.

Favorite visual artist and why: Kerry James Marshall is among the many artists I appreciate. His work and what he stands for as an artist inspired me to become the artist that I am.

Inspirational book: “The

Autobiography of Malcolm X” by Alex Haley, a story of the self-discovery and selfdetermination of a young Black man’s journey to become a man of purpose and courage.

Next goal: Complete the master’s degree program in art therapy at George Washington University and use those skills to help creatively heal the community.

‘A Long Arc’ brings 175 Years of Southern photography to VMFA

Free Press staff report

From sepia-toned Civil War battlefields to vibrant snapshots of modern Southern life, a new exhibition at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts offers a sweeping look at nearly two centuries of photography in the American South.

“A Long Arc: Photography and the American South since 1845,” is the first major exhibition of Southern photography in over 25 years. The exhibition, which opens Oct. 5, spans more than 175 years of photography across the American South, showcasing works from regions such as Maryland, Florida, Arkansas and Texas. It showcases a broad range of evocative images capturing everyday life, places and the South’s pivotal role in shaping American history and identity. The exhibition also highlights the South’s profound influence on the development of photography.

The exhibition features works by more than 120 photographers, including William Eggleston, Walker Evans, Robert Frank, Sally Mann, Gordon Parks and Carrie Mae Weems, offering a comprehensive look at the diverse perspectives that have shaped Southern photography.

“A Long Arc,” is organized by the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and co-curated by Gregory Harris, the Donald and Marilyn Keough Family Curator of Photography at the High Museum of Art, and Sarah Kennel, the Aaron Siskind Curator of Photography and Director of the Raysor Center for Works on Paper at VMFA.

“A Long Arc reckons with the region’s fraught history, American identity, and culture at large, asking us to consider the history of American photography with the South as its focal point,” Kennel said. “The exhibition examines the ways that photographers from the 19th century to the present have articulated the

distinct and evolving character of the South’s people, landscape, and culture.”

More than 180 works of historical and contemporary photography are featured in the exhibition, including many from VMFA’s permanent collection. Organized chronologically, the exhibition opens with photographs from 1845 to 1865, including those by Alexander Gardner and George Barnard, which document the American Civil War and set visual standards for representing national identity and trauma. Post-war images depict the South’s incomplete Reconstruction and

growing social divisions, while photographs from the 1930s by Walker Evans, Dorothea Lange and others raised national awareness of racial and social inequities.

The period from 1945 to 1970 highlights the tension between America’s postwar optimism and the realities of segregation, with works by Robert Frank, Clarence John Laughlin and others exposing economic and racial dissonance. Photographs from the civil rights movement by Bruce Davidson, Danny Lyon, and others documented the nation’s struggle for justice.

From the 1970s onward, photographers such as Sally Mann and William Eggleston created introspective works that reflect on the South’s history and cultural mythologies. The exhibition concludes with contemporary works from artists such as Richard Misrach and RaMell Ross, exploring themes of Southern history, economic inequality and shifting cultural identities.

The VMFA also will offer a variety of public programs related to A Long Arc, including lectures, photography workshops and film screenings. Kennel will give an opening talk Oct. 10. A full schedule of exhibition-related

Pitner to lead discussion on ‘Altar America’ at Gallery 5

Free Press Staff reports

Philosopher, writer and educator Barrett Holmes Pitner will speak at Gallery 5 in Richmond on Thursday, Oct. 3, to discuss the Altar America Project, a cultural and ancestor remembrance initiative. The event, part of Gallery 5’s “Community Care Night,” runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m., with Pitner’s talk beginning at 7 p.m. Altar America is an annual project that invites participants to create altars in memory of their heritage and deceased loved ones. Launched

in Washington, D.C., in 2020, the project expanded to Richmond where it is held each November. The 2024 Altar America Project will include a music festival and art exhibit Nov. 2 at Gallery 5 and Art Works.

At Gallery 5, Pitner will discuss his work, “The Crime Without a Name: Ethnocide and the Erasure of Culture in America,” followed by a book signing and meet-and-greet. Representatives from the Altars Festival will be available to engage with artists, musicians and volunteers interested in participating in this year’s event.

Barrett Holmes Pitner

Courtesy of Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

“The March to Selma,” shot by Matt Heron, captures a pivotal moment from the Civil Rights Movement, documenting the historic 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches. It is featured in “A Long Arc: Photography and the American South since 1845,” at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA).

William “Bill” Lucy, pioneering labor leader, dies at 90

Free Press staff report

William “Bill” Lucy, a towering figure in the American labor movement and a champion for civil and human rights, died Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, at his home in Washington, D.C., at 90 years old.

Lucy, who served as secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) for nearly four decades, was a key player in the 1968 Memphis sanitation workers’ strike. The strike, where Lucy marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., helped secure union recognition for AFSCME Local 1733.

In addition to his work with AFSCME, Lucy co-founded the Coalition of Black Trade Union-

ists (CBTU) and the Free South Africa Movement (FSAM), which led U.S. protests against apartheid in the 1980s.

“Bill was a relentless advocate for social justice,” AFSCME President Lee Saunders said in a statement. “His legacy will continue to inspire generations of workers and activists.”

Lucy’s leadership reached across borders. He was the first African American president of Public Services International (PSI), the world’s largest union federation, and served on the executive council of the AFLCIO. He also held positions with the NAACP, TransAfrica and the Africa-America Institute.

Born Nov. 26, 1933, in Memphis, Tenn., Lucy grew up in a working-class family. His father, Joseph Lucy, was a mechanic

and part-time musician, while his mother, Susie Bell, was a seamstress who later ran a soul food restaurant. The family moved to Richmond, Calif., during World War II, where his father worked in shipyards.

Lucy graduated from high

school in 1951 and began working for the U.S. Navy at a shipyard during the Korean War. In 1953, he took an entrylevel job with the Contra Costa County Public Works Department, marking the beginning of his involvement in labor issues. He became an active member of the employee association, helping to transform it into a full-fledged union—AFSCME Local 1675.

In 1966, AFSCME International President Jerry Wurf invited Lucy to Washington to help establish the union’s Department of Legislation and Community Affairs. Two years later, Lucy was dispatched to Memphis, where sanitation workers were striking for better wages and safer working conditions after two workers

Catherine Vernice Glover, famed Prince collaborator, dies at 60

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

Catherine Vernice Glover, known to Prince fans worldwide as “Cat,” the renowned dancer, choreographer and singer who rose to fame through her collaborations with Prince, has died at 60. Glover’s passing was announced via her official Facebook page on Oct. 1, 2024. No cause of death was provided.

Glover’s career was closely intertwined with Prince during the height of his success in the late 1980s. She played a significant role in the creation of albums such as “Sign o’ the Times” and, “Lovesexy.” Her most memorable moment may have been her rap on Prince’s hit single “Alphabet St.”

Born July 23, 1964, in Chicago, Glover was one of six children. She began dancing at age 5, attending Esmond Elementary and Morgan Park High Schools. Inspired by Prince, she pursued her dreams of stardom.

“The only thing that got me through my depression was listening to Prince’s album ‘Dirty Mind,’” she told The Chicago Crusader in 2016. “I knew I had to meet him.”

Glover gained national attention as part of the dance duo Pat and Cat on the hit TV show Star Search, where she and Patrick Allen earned seven wins and two perfect scores. The exposure led to her big break when Prince invited her to join his band in 1986. Her talent and Prince’s creative vision blended seamlessly. Glover choreographed and danced in the 1987 concert film “Sign o’ the Times” and was a key figure on the “Lovesexy” tour.

Glover reflected on her first encounter with Prince, recalling a chance meeting in a Los Angeles hotel elevator during his “Dirty Mind” tour. Their formal introduction came later through mutual friends. “One night, I was invited to a dinner at Prince’s place,” she recalled. “He played ‘Housequake,’ and from that moment, everything changed.” Her time with Prince was full of memorable moments, but it wasn’t without challenges. While rehearsing for the “Sign o’ the Times” tour, Glover suffered a severe ankle injury but persevered through the pain, performing night after night. Glover parted ways with Prince’s band in 1989 to pursue her own endeavors, releasing the EP “Catwoman.”

rallying cry for workers fighting for dignity and recognition. In 1972, Lucy was elected AFSCME secretary-treasurer, a position he held for 38 years. That same year, he founded CBTU, the first labor organization in the U.S. to condemn South Africa’s apartheid regime. During the 1980s, Lucy and FSAM led demonstrations and boycotts against companies that did business with South Africa.

Lucy also played a role in organizing Nelson Mandela’s U.S. tour after his release from

prison in 1990, including a stop at the AFSCME International Convention. In 1994, Lucy led an AFL-CIO delegation to monitor South Africa’s first democratic election.

Lucy retired from AFSCME in 2010 but continued to speak out on issues of workers’ rights and social justice. In his final address to AFSCME members, he urged them to remain committed to the cause, saying, “We have a responsibility to help those struggling to put food on the table, clothes on their backs and roofs over their heads.” Lucy is survived by two daughters and four grandchildren.

William ‘Bill’ Lucy

AP Photo/Udo Weitz Prince performs with dancer Cat Glover in Frankfurt, Germany on Aug. 27, 1988.

Works’ Commerce Road Improvement Project in the Transportation – Federal/ State/Regional category; (ii) establishing a new project for the Office of Animal Care and Control in the Capital Investment Opportunities category called the “Richmond Animal Care & Control Adoption Center” project, and (iii) appropriating such transferred funds to the Office of Animal Care and Control’s new project in the Capital Investment Opportunities category called the Richmond Animal Care & Control Adoption Center project, all for the purpose of providing funding for the acquisition of the real properties located at 2310 West Cary Street and 2311 Herbert Hamlet Alley in the city of Richmond and for the expansion and operations of the Office of Animal

Ordinance

Year 20242025 General Fund Budget by increasing estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to such new line item by $130,100.00, all for the purpose of funding a safe routes to school program. (cOMMiTTEE: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, October 10, 2024, 12:00 p.m.)

Ordinance No. 2024-255 To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Grant Agreement between the City of Richmond, Max Holdings, L.L.C., and the Economic Development Authority of the City of Richmond for the purpose of facilitating the construction of an affordable residential development located at 711 Dawn Street. (cOMMiTTEE: Finance and Economic Development, Thursday, October 10, 2024, 12:00 p.m.)

Interested citizens who wish to speak will be given an opportunity to do so by following the instructions referenced

DivOrcE

virGiNiA: iN THE circUiT cOUrT FOr THE cOUNTY OF HANOvEr JAMES rEDMOND, Plaintiff v. MirANDA rEDMOND, Defendant. case No.: cL24002344-00 OrDEr OF PUBLicATiON

It is ORDERED that the defendant, who has been served with the Complaint by posted service appear here on or before the 12th day of November, 2024 and protect her 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 FOr THE cOUNTY OF HANOvEr SEAN rOBiNSON, Sr., Plaintiff v. LYNETTE rOBiNSON, Defendant. case No.: cL24002240-00 OrDEr OF PUBLicATiON

It is ORDERED that the defendant, who is a nonresident, appear here on or before the 12th day of November, 2024 at 9:00 A.M. and protect her interests. A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE, JR., Clerk I ask for this: Dorothy M. Eure, Esquire VSB# 27724 Law Office of Dorothy M. Eure, P.C. 8460 Mount Eagle Road Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-9667

virGiNiA: iN THE circUiT cOUrT FOr THE cOUNTY OF HANOvEr WHiTNEY cHriSTiAN, Plaintiff v. WiLLiAM cHriSTiAN, Defendant. case No.: cL24002794-00 OrDEr OF PUBLicATiON

It is ORDERED that the defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, appear here on or before the 12th day of November, 2024 at 9:00 A.M. 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

virGiNiA: iN THE circUiT cOUrT FOr THE cOUNTY OF HANOvEr GiLBErT THOMPSON, Plaintiff v. SHAWNELL THOMPSON, Defendant. case No.: cL24002833-00 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 13th day of November, 2024 at 9:00 A.M. and protect her interests.

A Copy, Teste: FRANK D. HARGROVE,

REQUEST FOR BIDS

For Easement, Franchise, Privilege, Lease or Right Upon, Over, Under, and Across Certain Property Located at 1800 Lakeside Avenue In the City of Richmond

The City of Richmond is seeking bids for an easement upon, over, under, and across certain property located in Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens at 1800 Lakeside Avenue for the

virGiNiA: ricHMOND ciTY JUvENiLE AND DOMESTic rELATiONS DiSTricT cOUrT cOMMONWEALTH OF virGiNiA, iN rE JAMEKA rOOKS rDSS v UNKNOWN FATHEr (FATHEr) File No. JJ094595-13-00 OrDEr OF PUBLicATiON The object of this suit is to: Terminate the residual parental rights (“TPR”) of the Unknown Father (Father) of Jameka Rooks, child DOB 11/22/2016. ‘’TPR” means all rights and responsibilities remaining with parent after transfer of legal custody or guardianship of the person, including but not limited to rights of: visitation; adoption consent; determination of religious affiliation; and responsibility for support. It is ORDERED that the defendant Unknown Father to appear at the abovenamed Court and protect his/her interest on or before 11/07/2024 at 10:00 A.M., COURTROOM #3 BiD

cOUNTY OF HENricO, virGiNiA cONSTrUcTiON BiD

iTB #24-2756-9JOK Old Washington Highway Sewer & Waterline improvements Due: October 30, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. For additional information visit: https://henrico.us/ finance/divisions/purchasing/ solicitations/ NOTicE

virGiNiA: iN THE circUiT cOUrT OF THE cOUNTY OF HENricO iN rE: AGNES GAcULA cArABAT DETErMiNATiON OF DEATH OF GrAciANO BArrAMEDA cArABAT case No.: cL24003701-00 NOTicE AND OrDEr OF PUBLicATiON

The object of this suit is to have this Court make a judicial determination that a legal presumption of death for Graciano Barrameda Carabat is applicable, and if so determined, that the Court enter an order in accordance with Va. Code Ann. §64.22305. It is ORDERED that this Notice and Order be published once a week for two consecutive weeks, on October 3, 2024 and October 9, 2024 in the Richmond Free Press, a newspaper having general circulation throughout the Richmond Metropolitan Area, including Henrico County. And it is further ORDERED that Graciano Barrameda Carabat, the presumed decedent, or any person for him, produce to the Court satisfactory evidence that the presumed decedent is alive within two weeks from the date of the last publication. If no satisfactory evidence is produced within this period, the Court shall enter an order in accordance with Va. Ann. §64.2-2305. A final hearing will be held for this matter on November 22, 2024.

A Copy Teste: HEIDI S. BARSHINGER, Clerk

I ask for this: Jason L. Shaber, Esq., V.S.B. 96186

DANKOS, GORDON & TUCKER, P.C. 1360 E. Parham Road, Suite 200 Richmond, Virginia 23228

Telephone: (804) 377-7424

Facsimile: (804) 262-8088

Email: jshaber@dankosgordon.com Counsel for Petitioner

Hearing

The County of Henrico proposes to construct approximately 2,300 feet of 5-foot-wide sidewalk on the eastbound side of Monument Avenue from Bremo Road to 300 feet east of Peachtree Boulevard including median improvements, ADA curb ramps, private entrances and upgrades to the existing GRTC transit stop.

The purpose of the public hearing is to provide information about the project and receive public input. The public hearing will be open-house format and County staff will be available to answer questions.

The public hearing will be held at Henrico Recreation and Parks, 6800 Staples Mill Road, Henrico, VA 23228 from 5:30pm to 7:00pm, Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

The County ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights act of 1964. If you need more information, or special assistance for persons with disabilities, or limited English proficiency, or have any questions regarding this project or the public hearing, please contact Doug Hilemn, Department of Public Works at (804) 501-5985, hil131@henrico.gov. VDOT UPC# 117044

TRIUMPHANT BAPTIST CHURCH

Attn: