Richmond Free Press October 24-26, 2024 edition

Richmond Free Press

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VUU alters hospital redevelopment plans amid community pressure

By George Copeland Jr.

The future of the former Richmond Community Hospital appeared to take a sudden turn Tuesday, as Virginia Union University announced plans to fully preserve the building — hours after a lawsuit was filed over the college’s use of the site.

VUU announced a revised vision for the building, which will be incorporated into plans for new housing developments in the area. Earlier proposals had left only the hospital’s facade intact as part of a larger residential complex.

“We have listened closely as the community has spoken throughout this year,” VUU President and CEO Hakim J. Lucas stated in a press release. “People have acknowledged Richmond’s need for more housing options, while also wishing to protect the character of neighborhoods and expand amenities.”

“This plan accomplishes all of these goals. The engagement process has worked, and we can all be proud that the community has shaped this plan together.”

VUU’s recent announcement followed months of community criticism and controversy sparked by the announcement of VUU’s plans in February, including a heated meeting in August.

The press release came hours after former Richmond City Councilman Sa’ad El-Amin filed a lawsuit in Richmond Circuit Court against VUU, Lucas and VUU Board of Trustees Chair W. Franklyn Richardson in response to the initial plans for the building.

Richard Walker cooks at a fish fry in Gilpin Court in Richmond. He was using the event to help former convicts with prior felony convictions restore their voting rights.

El-Amin was joined by others who have advocated for the building’s preservation and adaptive reuse for a press conference Tuesday afternoon on the building’s

The lawsuit challenges VUU’s initial plan for the building partly through the college and building’s non-profit statuses. It

Cianna Morales/WHRO

Restoring voting rights, with fish as the bait

By Cianna Morales

This story was originally published by the Virginia Center for Investigative Journalism.

Richard Walker toiled over a sizzling deep fryer, dropping breaded fish into the hot oil on a late summer afternoon. People lined up at a park shelter in Richmond’s Gilpin Court public housing complex, waiting for a fish dinner — and also getting an election message from Walker.

Walker’s mission was to get people ready to vote in the upcoming election — by helping people with prior felony convictions check their voting status or apply to have their voting rights restored.

“Fish brings out the best in people,” he

Mayoral hopefuls share visions for revitalizing Fulton neighborhood

By George Copeland Jr.

Richmond’s mayoral candidates brought visions and promises for the Greater Fulton area during a forum Tuesday evening organized by the Greater Fulton Civic Association and the League of Women Voters of the Richmond Metro Area.

Andreas Addison, Danny Avula, Mi-

chelle Mosby, Maurice Neblett and Harrison Roday shared a wide range of ideas to the event, hosted at Mount Calvary Baptist Church, with almost 60 people in attendance. The forum was just one of many held this week for the mayoral election, as acknowledged by moderator Sam Florer, but the region brought plenty of unique topics

to a packed house as part of her seven-date October tour schedule.

and concerns for candidates to address.

General issues such as education funding and affordable housing were addressed alongside more specific matters for residents, from the impact of road shutdowns on the area to supporting underserved neighborhood organizations.

Candidates worked to tout their connections to the Fulton area throughout the forum, while also acknowledging the sense of disconnect and disinvestment residents have felt from the city.

Avula referenced his wife’s work at Chimborazo Elementary School, their time living in the area and his previous work as he offered ideas to the audience. Some of these ideas included state-level partnerships to support education, uplifting and honoring little-known local histories, and ensuring a strong city staff.

“When government is run well, really remarkable things can happen,” Avula said, “and I want to bring that experience to City Hall.”

Neblett took a similar approach, noting his family’s long connection to the area and presenting himself as an “equalizer” whose life set him apart from the other candidates. He also said that experience was what made him best qualified to resolve the problems residents faced. Proposals included affordable homeownership and a business resource center in City Hall, with a focus on transparency and accountability.

said. “It at least brings people out.” Virginia is the only state that permanently suspends a person’s voting rights and other civil liberties after a felony conviction, regardless of the crime or completion of their sentence. Other states with strict restrictions restore rights depending on the type of felony conviction Under Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin, people with a felony conviction must apply to the governor’s office, which decides on a case-by-case basis to restore voting rights. The Richmond community event was a block party and voter mobilization effort all at once. Walker’s organization, Bridging the Gap in Virginia, was joined by booths with information about registration and local politi-

By Brodie Greene

Richmond Gas Works will receive an additional $15.7 million in federal funding in a move to modernize outdated natural gas infrastructure, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

In total, the city has received three grants totaling over $60 million from the Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) since 2023.

Richmond began replacing legacy gas pipes in 1992, according public information manager Rhonda Johnson. These grants are expected to accelerate the city’s cast iron renewal program by

From left, Viola Baskerville, Leonard Edloe and Gary Flowers look on as Sa’ad El-Amin, center, speaks during a press conference Tuesday on a lawsuit seeking to prevent Virginia Union University’s demolition of the Richmond Community Hospital building on the hospital’s front lawn.

Right, this revamped design of the hospital site was released by the university Tuesday.

front lawn.

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

All for “The Boss”

Dorothy Webb displays her Diana Ross T-shirt while waiting Tuesday for the sold-out Legacy 2024 Tour show at Altria Theater. The 80-year-old “Queen of Motown,” who rose to fame with the Supremes, performed

George Copeland Jr./Richmond Free Press

Think you might have been mistakenly purged from Va.’s voter rolls? Here’s what to do.

By Charlotte Rene Woods

Though state law allows people who didn’t indicate citizenship status when filling out forms at the Department of Motor Vehicles to be removed from voter rolls, two lawsuits have alleged that Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s administration is violating federal law by continuing removals within 90 days of Election Day.

For anyone who became a citizen since their last DMV visit, or who suspects they made an error filling out their paperwork that would have booted them from voter lists, there are still ways to cast a ballot in next month’s elections.

Registrars and election workers won’t turn eligible voters away from polls if they wish to utilize same-day registration or a provisional ballot, according to Henrico County Registrar Mark Coakley.

“So if they were canceled or not registered, provisional ballots are a fail-safe method.”

Provisional ballots, most often used in same-day voter registration, also are used when people run into paperwork or registration issues that might need to be resolved.

With a provisional ballot, voters will still need to follow up with their local registrar’s office to provide additional documents that can help verify their identity or other facts, like if they are residents of Virginia and the city or county they voted in, and whether they are U.S. citizens or have had their voting rights restored after a previous felony conviction.

“We can research to make sure they are citizens or became citizens or had their rights restored,” Coakley explained.

Coakley said when using a provisional ballot, voters are also given instructions to help with the follow-up procedures.

“They’ll get a letter attached to their provisional ballot, giving them all the information of ‘This is the reason why (you may have this ballot)’ and ‘Here’s the ways to get hold of us to present evidence if you choose to do so,’” he said.

Chesterfield County Registrar Missy Vera stressed that sameday registration can happen at any early voting location as well as on Election Day, which is Nov. 5.

Coakley also suggested that anyone who might be concerned they could have been mistakenly caught up in the recent voter roll purges check the Virginia Department of Elections’ online citizen portal to see their voter status.

Andrea Gaines, a communications manager at the Department of Elections, also said that people “can always reach out to their local registrar if they have questions about their registration status.”

Vera, from Chesterfield County, concurred.

“Anyone may call our office to inquire about their registration or inquire as to their options,” she said. “We are happy to help.”

Early voting — by mail, ballot drop boxes, and at select locations — runs through Nov. 2. Election Day is Nov. 5

This story originally appeared on VirginiaMercury.com

Correction

In last week’s Free Press, an article about the Shockoe Bottom African Burial Ground misstated the name of the historical site. Also, the site was called the “Burial Ground for Negroes” on the 1809 Plan of the City of Richmond, not when the city acquired the property in 1799. We regret the errors.

Free community testing for COVID-19 continues

For the week ending Saturday, Oct. 19, COVID-19 accounted for .6% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, with trends stable from previous data. No deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported within that timeframe at time of publication. Data on COVID-19 wastewater showed levels below detection in Richmond and Henrico County starting Sunday, Oct. 6.

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

• Thursday, Oct. 24, 2 to 4:30 p.m. - Calvary United Methodist Church, 1637 Williamsburg Road.

• Friday, Oct. 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Southside Woman, Infants and Children Office, 509 E. Southside Plaza

• Wednesday, Oct. 30, 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 at select locations:

• Creighton Court at 2150 Creighton Road, call 804-371-0433.

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

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

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

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

• Southwood Court at 1754 Clarkson Road. Unit #B, call 804230-2077.

• Whitcomb Court at 2106 Deforrest St., call 804-786-0555. For Virginia Department of Health testing locations, visit vdh. virginia.gov. Additional testing site information can be found at 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. Residents also can order four free at-home COVID test kits at covidtest.gov, while supplies last.

The CDC recommends the new COVID-19 vaccine for everyone age 6 months and older. Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are approved for age 6 months and up, while Novavax is for those 12 and older. These updated vaccines are now available at pharmacies and health care providers. Health officials encourage eligible individuals to get their boosters. For those who received previous doses, the CDC advises waiting at least two months before getting the new vaccine. However, exceptions exist for people completing an initial vaccination series, immunocompromised individuals, those who recently had COVID-19 and individuals receiving an initial series of Novavax doses.

Compiled by George Copeland Jr.

Cityscape

Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

Construction progresses on the new

Richmond. Sponsored by Allianz Partners, the

is

summer, bringing top touring artists, over 300 jobs, and an estimated $30.6

in annual economic impact to the area.

By Paula Phounsavath

Richmond Public Schools revealed a significant increase in graduation rates from the 2023-2024 academic year at Monday evening’s School Board meeting.

As part of the Dreams4RPS long-term plan, RPS Director of Data Analytics John Grove and the RPS graduation team presented updated data for the Class of 2024. Grove reported that overall graduation rates increased by six percentage points, rising from 72% to 78%. Graduation rates for English learners saw a dramatic 19% rise, and Latino students also experienced a notable 17% increase.

“RPS is on the rise,” Grove said to the board. “To frame the success for all medium to large divisions in the state with more than 500 students in the graduating cohort, the RPS 6% increase is the largest increase in the state.”

Richmond High School for the Arts posted a significant 15% increase in

graduation rates, while Huguenot High School saw an 8% rise in graduation rates for English learners and Latino students. Jennifer Blackwell, director of multilingual learner success, informed the board that the division launched the Bilingual Leap Tutoring Program last year, hiring 10 bilingual tutors to offer both cultural and academic support for multilingual learners.

“They contributed greatly to the 19% increase that we saw for our graduation rates for multilingual learners,” Blackwell said. “So, we will continue along with that strategy for this year.”

However, graduation rates for economically disadvantaged groups did not show a dramatic difference in both the 2023 and 2024 cohorts. To continue increasing the graduation rates, one of RPS’s initiatives is to re-enroll students who have dropped out with a focus on Latino and English learners students.

Board member Shavonda Dixon-

Fernandez, 9th District, also suggested to the team to be mindful of using the word “dropout,” as it can have a negative connotation.

“Words have power, and so when you use the word, ‘dropout,’ it just has a strong connotation,” Dixon-Fernandez said. “I know we know what we’re talking about, but if we could explore maybe another term that really speaks to their future and not their mistakes, that would be great.”

The School Board members praised the RPS graduation team for their efforts. The graduation team said they would continue to implement these strategies for this school year.

“It looks like from one year to the next that we made this tremendous jump, but it was … years of hard work and dedication that we poured into it,” Blackwell said. “I think that all of our students and RPS have the ability to continue making our gains for graduation, so I hope that we can continue to close those gaps.”

School Board member sued for $1.35M

By Paula Phounsavath

Incumbent Richmond School board member, Shonda Harris-Muhammed, 6th District, and her husband, Demetrius Muhammed, along with current and former members of the Richmond Police Department, are being sued for $1.35 million in punitive and compensatory damages due to a wrongful arrest claim that occurred four years ago.

The case was filed with the Circuit Court of Richmond on Oct. 9, with a request for a trial by jury. The lawsuit states on Aug. 26, 2020, Miles Jones Jr., then-environmental compliance officer for the City, removed campaign signs belonging to Harris — who was running for the 6th District School Board seat at the time – from a public right-of-way near the intersection of North Avenue and Roberts Street as a part of his job

responsibilities during that time.

The claim states Harris-Muhammed and her husband “repeatedly pressured” RPD former acting Detective Michael Nyantakyi to arrest Jones.

By George Copeland Jr.

Greyhound buses in Richmond may soon have a home at Main Street Station.

The Land Use Housing and Transportation Standing Committee unanimously approved an ordinance allowing the company to use part of Main Street Station and its plaza as a bus station, including a passenger boarding and waiting area, during a meeting Tuesday afternoon.

Greyhound is already operating out of Main Street Station, but the upcoming vote could officially license the company to use the location under a two-year agreement. This decision is part of the City’s ongoing plans for Greyhound operations, with City Council expected to vote on the ordinance in November.

“It really will help to promote Main Street as a regional multimodal transportation hub,” Department of Public Works Deputy Director Dironna Moore Clarke said as she addressed the committee in support of the ordinance.

The vote came as the former Greyhound station across from the Diamond on North Arthur Ashe Boulevard closed Sunday. The location was purchased

The lawsuit further explains that because of the allegations, Jones has been suffering from emotional distress and public humiliation.

Harris-Muhammed is currently running for School Board unopposed. She regained her seat in 2020, after losing in 2016. She also served as RPS School Board chair two years ago.

Jones’ attorney, Robert Dawson, Harris-Muhammad and the Richmond Police Department declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Nyantakyi separated from the Richmond Police Department in September 2023. Edwards was promoted to police chief in July 2023.

Greyhound move to Main St. almost official

Jones was arrested on charges of grand larceny. The charges were dismissed July 9, 2021, at the request of the Commonwealth in General District Court. Jones also is suing Nyantakyi, thenOfficer Rick Edwards and former Chief of Police Gerald Smith — who resigned in Oct. 2022 — for the same compensation as Mr. and Mrs. Harris-Muhammad and her husband. The lawsuit alleges Edwards and Nyantakyi “wrongfully imprisoned” Jones and failed to conduct a “meaningful investigation” into the allegations against him. The lawsuit also claims that Smith — who was the police chief at the time — is “vicariously liable” for Nyantakyi’s conduct of the investigation.

years earlier, along with other Greyhound properties across the country, by Twenty Lake Holdings, with plans to be redeveloped into multi-family residential housing. While the ordinance was approved by all committee members, there were questions about the decision. The impact of the buses on the roads and traffic in the area were among the issues

by committee members based on their own concerns and those that could be raised by residents.

“My problem is not the location, my problem is the logistics of it being supported for the duration of daily buses,” said Andreas Addison, 1st

the committee’s chairman. Richmond schools post

raised

District,

Sandra Sellars / Richmond Free Press

Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront in Downtown

7,500-seat venue

scheduled to open next

million

File photo

Shonda HarrisMuhammed

Mark Coakley

voting information

The presidential election, as well as contests for the U.S. Senate, Congress, Richmond Mayor, City Council and School Board take place: Tuesday, Nov. 5

Early in-person voting ends Saturday, Nov. 2

Deadline to request an absentee ballot Friday, Oct. 25

For voting details, contact the Virginia Department of Elections at elections.virginia.gov or 1-800-552-9745. They can provide information on early in-person voting, voting by mail, requesting absentee ballots and acceptable forms of ID for voting.

chesteRfield county

Early in-person voting

• Central Library, 7051 Lucy Corr Blvd. – 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Nov. 1, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Four satellite locations open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, through to Friday, Nov. 1. They include:

• Clover Hill Library, 6701 Deer Run Drive; Meadowdale Library, 4301 Meadowdale Blvd.

• LaPrade Library, 9000 Hull Street Road

• North Courthouse Road Library, 325 Courthouse Road

• Ettrick-Matoaca Library, 4501 River Road.

All five locations open for early voting from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, and Nov. 2.

Drop box locations for mail-in ballots

• The Chesterfield Office of the General Registrar, 9848 Lori Road Through Friday, Nov. 1, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, Saturday, Oct. 26, and Nov. 2, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Monday, Nov. 4, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

VUU alters hospital redevelopment plans amid community pressure

pharmacist and pastor Leonard Edloe and radio host Gary Flowers.

Monday through Friday through Friday, Nov. 1. Both locations open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, and Nov. 2. Drop box locations for mail-in ballots

• Administration Annex building at the Henrico County Government Center, 4305 E. Parham Road

• Eastern Government Center, 3820 Nine Mile Road

• Deep Run Park Recreation Center, 9900 Ridgefield Pkwy.

• Varina Library, 1875 New Market Road

• Tuckahoe Area Library, 1901 Starling Drive All locations will be outdoors and accessible 24 hours a day.

Details: (804)501-4347, registerandvote@henrico.gov or henrico.gov/registrar

• Central Library and the four satellite locations will provide drop boxes when early voting begins at their locations. Drop boxes at regular polling places will be available on Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Curbside voting will be available at all early voting locations when early voting begins and at all polling locations on Election Day, through Tuesday, Nov. 5. Details: (804)748-1471 or .chesterfield.gov/Registrar

hanoveR county

Early in-person voting

• Early Voting Center in the Wickham Building, Hanover Courthouse Government Complex, 7497 County Complex Road – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday, Oct. 26, and Nov. 2. Curbside voting options will be available.

Drop box location for mail-in

ballots

• Outside the Wickham Building at the Hanover County Government Complex, through Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 7 p.m. Details: (804)365-6080, HanoverVoting@hanovercounty.gov or hanovercounty.gov/365/voting

Richmond receives $15M federal grant to replace aging gas pipes

Continued from A1

three years, meeting the city’s 2032 deadline for renewal.

The grant will be used to replace more than 50 miles of pipeline in areas where some pipes are estimated to be over 170 years old.

Thomas Perry works for the Department of Public Utilities in Richmond as a gas construction inspector and supervisor. Many of these old cast iron pipes are brittle and don’t last longer than 50 to 60 years, according to Perry.

“This is old Richmond, and these pipes have been here since that time,” Perry said.

Gas leaks can cause explosions, pollution and higher energy costs for residents who rely on natural gas to cook and heat homes during the winter. Some of the worst cases of infrastructure failure are seen in South Richmond, according to Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney.

Approximately 99% of pipelines in the U.S. are made of corrosion-resistant materials, such as plastic or steel. Twentyfour states have completely eliminated the use of cast iron for natural gas distribution.

In addition to the danger of gas leaks, corroded pipelines can drive up household energy costs, according to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

U.S. Department of Transportation officials estimate Richmond households will save an average of $519 on energy bills yearly.

“We’re helping communities across the country carry out projects that will keep people safe while bringing down energy costs for hundreds of thousands of Americans,” Buttigieg said.

Stronger infrastructure reduces pollution within communities, according to National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi.

Methane is a “super pollutant” that is responsible for around 30 % of global warming caused by greenhouse gasses, according to the EPA. Oil and gas industries are the largest source of methane gas within the U.S.

PHMSA officials estimate that improving Richmond gas mains will reduce methane production by 188.49 metric tons annually.

The grant is one of 60 announced on Tuesday by the PHMSA, which will award $196 million to 20 states to update natural gas systems.

The Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization grant program was created by the Biden-Harris administration’s 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The law allocates close to $1 billion for municipally owned gas companies to improve pipelines in underserved communities.

argues that the proposed demolition and redevelopment would violate IRS regulations on self-dealing and restrictions on the use and disposing of charitable assets for non-profits.

The suit requests a declaratory judgment that VUU’s use and plan for the property are damaging a historic site, as well as an injunction to end any potential demolition and redevelopment and require VUU to preserve and protect the property.

“Since 1982, they’ve done nothing with this building, to this building or for this building,” said El-Amin, speaking alongside Save Community Hospital group co-founder Viola Baskerville, former

The group, along with the lawsuit, highlighted both the legal concerns surrounding VUU’s earlier plans and the cultural significance of the hospital to Richmond. They argued that this cultural value would be lost if most of the building were demolished to make way for VUU’s housing development.

“This was the only place we could go to be treated with respect and dignity as human beings,” said Edloe, who was born in the hospital, received and contributed medical care there and was a member of the group that transferred the building to VUU after the hospital moved.

VUU’s announcement of the changes

to their plans for the hospital came during the press conference on the lawsuit, and prompted some celebration from advocates. Baskerville expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing that VUU must clearly outline its intentions and involve the community in the planning and development process.

“It’s encouraging to hear those words, but again, the devil is in the details,” Baskerville said. “What’s the university’s concept of rehabilitation versus the spectrum of ideas that the community has come up with?”

Despite this, advocates were encouraged by the change and the influence of the lawsuit, which will proceed as planned, according to El-Amin.

Restoring voting rights, with fish as bait

cians campaigning among residents of one of the city’s poorest neighborhoods.

People waited in long, snaking lines to pick up fried fish dinners. Kids played basketball on the court next door. Groups from the neighborhood were drawn by the food, music and social activities.

Several people with felony convictions approached Walker and his colleague, Charles “Blake” Deyhle, about their voting status. Some had automatically regained their voting rights under previous governors. Deyhle looked up residents’ names on the Secretary of the Commonwealth website to check their registration status. He had some fill out applications to start the process of restoration.

Tens of thousands of former felons had their rights restored after serving their sentences under previous governors’ administrations, but many do not know it, Walker explained.

Virginia’s history of suspending felons’ civil liberties dates back to the 1902 state constitution that allows the governor to decide whose rights should be restored.

Voter restoration saw a bipartisan revival in more recent years. Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell initiated a policy of restoring rights for people with non-violent offenses in 2010. He restored rights to around 8,000 people during his term.

Democratic governors Terry McAuliffe and Ralph Northam picked up the pace over the next eight years, restoring rights to roughly 172,000 and 169,000 people,

respectively. McAuliffe began restoring rights regardless of a person’s conviction — reasoning that a judge determines a person’s sentence. McAuliffe also tried to restore rights to 206,000 people by executive order, but the effort was rejected by the Virginia Supreme Court, which found the governor had exceeded his authority.

Youngkin rolled back his predecessors’ policy of automatic restoration. Many advocates — including Walker — say it’s unclear who gets their rights restored and why under Youngkin’s process. One thing is clear: Youngkin’s rate of restoration has drastically slowed down. He reenfranchised about 6,500 voters in 2022 and 2023, according to reports submitted to the General Assembly.

Earlier this summer, a judge acknowledged Youngkins’ process might not be transparent, but deemed it legal Walker, 66, got involved in voter restoration work and advocacy after serving a prison sentence. He grew up in East Orange, N.J., before moving to Virginia for college. A drug addiction when he was in his 30s led to his arrest and, eventually, to a two-year prison sentence for violating his probation.

“I was released in 2005, and that’s when I discovered and found out, in the Commonwealth of Virginia, if you’re a convicted felon, you lose your right to vote, you lose your right to be on a jury, you lose your right to be a public notary, and you lose your right to run for public office,” Walker said.

One memory from childhood that sticks with Walker was going with his mother and grandmother to the polls. He was raised with the knowledge that when he turned 18, he would be voting. It was a right that was hard-won for Black people in the Civil Rights movement, protested and fought for by his older relatives.

Learning his civil rights had been revoked caused a wrenching in his gut, Walker said. “I became angry, and then that’s when I started advocating.” He founded Bridging the Gap in Virginia in 2009, and had his own rights restored in 2012. Since then, he has voted, served on a jury and become a notary public. He ran for the House of Delegates in 2021 and 2023.

In addition to working on voter restoration, Walker advocates for incarcerated people while they are in prison. He also helps people find transitional housing when they leave prison and offers job training and certification in solar panel installation. Civil service is “selfless service without looking for accolades and awards,” Walker said.

At the end of the fish fry, Walker and Deyhle had a tidy stack of paper applications with “Rights Restored” jotted across the top.

“What I do doesn’t normally turn into a paycheck,” Walker said. “What I do has an impact on a lot of people without me getting paid. Civil service, any type of service to your community, helps the longevity of the community to exist, helps the flourishing, thriving of a community.”

Mayoral hopefuls share visions for revitalizing Fulton neighborhood

“There’s a lot that hasn’t changed here in 30 years, since I ran around here at 5 years old,” Neblett said. “We know that local government needs to step up. How much longer do we wait?” Mosby highlighted her re-

cord in city government while pledging to bring a cohesive, comprehensive vision for the city’s various districts and government. Her proposals, whether focused on affordable housing, hiring practices, support for local organizations or other questions, were largely shaped by her experience and

the relationships she’s built over the years.

“We need someone who’s going to be intentional, across the board, in Fulton,” Mosby said.

Roday relied on his various endorsements from Richmond organizations and his past work with small businesses in pitching a vision of the Fulton area better connected to the larger city and with a more engaged leader. Revitalizing the area’s commercial corridor were among the proposals he shared, alongside targeted tax relief, improved communication and support for those already living in the city.

“I think there are opportunities for the city to be a much stronger partner,” Roday said, “whether it’s in supporting small businesses directly or working to support residents who want to invest in their neighborhoods or their com-

munity.” Addison drew on his years of experience in various city government roles to position himself as someone capable of streamlining operations and improving transparency, ensuring residents understand city expenditures and projects. His background also shaped several of his proposals, including increased support for middle school athletics, the creation of a housing conservancy, and a focus on prioritizing community input.

“I’ve worked within City Hall, I’ve been asked the questions you’re asking your council leadership,” Addison said. “I want to make sure you have answers.” Mayoral candidates met once again for the Richmond Mayorathon discussion hosted in the Virginia Museum of History & Culture Wednesday evening.

Photos by Julianne Tripp Hillian

Mayoral candidates Harrison Roday, Andreas Addison, Michelle Mosby, Danny Avula and Maurice Neblett participate in a forum held Tuesday at Mount Calvary Baptist Church and hosted by the Greater Fulton Civic Association and the League of Women Voters of Richmond Metro Area. The candidates addressed issues such as education funding, affordable housing and revitalizing the Greater Fulton area.

Election Coverage

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5.

At stake: U.S. presidency and vice presidency, U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, Richmond mayor, Richmond City Council and School Board.

The Richmond Free Press asked candidates about the top issues facing the city and their respective districts, and their plans to address those issues. The answers from the candidates who responded with completed questionnaires are published in this week’s Special Election Section. For the full list of candidates in city elections, visit rva.gov/elections.

Your vote is your power. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Election Day, and early voting is taking place now, including Saturday, Oct. 26, Sunday, Oct. 27 and Saturday, Nov. 2, in Richmond. Vote.

Questions?

Visit the Virginia Department of Elections at www.vote.virginia.gov or call (800) 5529745; Richmond Voter Registrar, www.rva. gov/elections/voting or (804) 646-5950; or the registrar for your locality.

Meet the candidates for mayor, City Council, School Board Richmond mayoral candidates

Andreas Addison

Education: MBA from the University of Richmond Robins School of Business; B.A. in political science and Government from Virginia Tech

Occupation: Richmond City Council representative 1st District; owner of Pure Fitness RVA; adjunct professor at University of Virginia’s Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy.

Top 2 civic/community activities: City Council member and vice chair of GRTC Board of Directors

Email: campaign@andreasaddison.com

Website: andreasaddison.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for the Mayor’s Office?

As a 16-year public servant for the city, I’ve delivered fare-free transit, pay raises for teachers and bus drivers, tripled our budget for street paving, and invested millions into our affordable housing trust. I’ve also invested $88 million in the Richmond Public Schools budget — a $22 million increase for classrooms.

I know firsthand how city government works and when it doesn’t. I am the only candidate who is ready to start on day one with real plans to lower the tax burden on residents, expand workforce development and make monumental investments in neighborhoods through a high-performing City Hall.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Housing affordability and aging infrastructure are the top issues facing Richmonders. For many Richmonders, housing costs have risen faster than incomes. Rising costs force lowwage earners and seniors to spend a disproportionate amount of their budget on housing. Further, as our aging infrastructure struggles to keep up with population growth and severe weather, Richmonders, primarily in the South Side, are feeling the brunt of these impacts since the City never adequately invested in their neighborhoods. Decades of disinvestment in Black and Brown communities, paired with major citywide capital needs too often pits core services and reparative investment against one another.

How do you plan to address these issues as mayor?

My revenue strategy for the city includes tax reform plans that stabilize real estate tax assessments and lower utility costs to keep families in their homes, while also transforming our permitting and zoning code to create more diverse housing – at all price points – and retail spaces to support new families and Richmond’s small businesses along our major corridors.

My administration will also improve neighborhoods with parks, sidewalks, street lighting and amenities – with grocery stores in the South Side – and a Southside Workforce Development Center to create successful pathways for RPS students and those looking to advance their careers.

Danny Avula

Education: University of Virginia - B.A.; Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine - M.D.; Johns Hopkins School of Public Health - master’s in public health

Occupation: Pediatrician, Public Health Executive Leader.

Top 2 civic/community activities: Trustee for Richmond Memorial Health Foundation Board for nine years, board chair for two years; founding President and board chair of the Richmond Henrico Public Health Foundation Email: campaign@danny formayor.com Website: dannyformayor.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for the Mayor’s Office?

I seek the support of voters who want a healthy and thriving city where no one gets left behind. I am the only candidate who has proven executive experience at a government agency comparable to the size of Richmond City. After leading the local health district for over a decade, I was appointed by Gov. Northam to lead the COVID-19 vaccination effort, bringing Virginaia from 50th in the country into the top 10 most vaccinated states. I have lived here over 20 years, I love Richmond and I know how to get things done in local government.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Systemic racial inequities and poor financial management are holding Richmond back. To tackle racial inequity, I will invest in affordable housing, public education, public transit and expanding economic opportunities to all — be it a living wage job or owning a small business.

I also will invest in updated financial systems and improving all aspects of city operations, to rebuild trust in City Hall. We don’t need to choose between racial equity and good government — in fact, we can’t have one without the other. As mayor, I won’t rest until Richmond is a healthy and thriving city for everyone.

How do you plan to address these issues as mayor?

One of the strengths of our city has been developing high quality plans. The next mayor of Richmond must have the executive leadership experience to build an organization with the culture, capacity, and resources required to fully execute these plans, and I will bring that experience to this role. I have spent 15 years leading complex governmental organizations, building effective teams, changing culture, and managing through crisis.

My website, dannyformayor.com, has more on how my administration will create a more effective and accountable City Hall, address the affordable housing crisis and increase investment in public education.

Education: Virginia Union University

Occupation: Small Business

Owner, Realtor, Nonprofit Founder.

Top civic/community activity: Non-profit founder of Help Me Help You Foundation

Email: friendsofmichellemosby@ gmail.com

Website: mosbyrva.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for the Mayor’s Office?

As a proud Richmond native and the first Black woman elected President of the Richmond City Council, I’ve demonstrated a strong record of leadership and tangible results. Under my tenure, we built new schools, revitalized the riverfront, expanded the port and launched bus rapid transit — all while maintaining a budget surplus. I also founded a nonprofit supporting formerly incarcerated individuals, helping them reintegrate and thrive.

As a business owner, I understand Richmond’s economic challenges and see vast opportunities for growth. I’m running for mayor to deliver essential services, drive economic development, address housing affordability and enhance public safety across our neighborhoods.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Richmond is facing a housing crisis, and residents regularly tell me that affordability is a top concern. Too many are being priced out of rapidly changing neighborhoods, and we must act swiftly to create diverse housing options that meet the needs of both young professionals and older residents. However, housing alone won’t solve our challenges. Rising gun violence and crime are threatening the safety of many neighborhoods. Rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the community is crucial. We need to bridge the divide that has widened in recent years and work together to ensure every neighborhood feels safe and supported.

How do you plan to address these issues as mayor?

We must prioritize implementing the Richmond 300 plan to rezone parcels, fostering the development of denser, more affordable housing throughout the city. Streamlining the permitting process is essential to accelerate housing availability and help control costs. Continued investment in the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and Maggie Walker Community Land Trust is crucial to ensuring long-term affordability and equity.

On public safety, filling the 180 vacancies in the Richmond Police Department is vital, with a focus on recruiting community-oriented officers committed to building trust. Additionally, increasing support for Community Violence Intervention programs will address the root causes of violence and promote safer neighborhoods.

Education: Virginia Union University, Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Occupation: Business Owner/ Entrepreneur.

Top 2 civic/community activities: Community organizer, Board of Directors local Federal Credit Union

Email: connect@mauriceneblett. com Website: mauriceneblett.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for the Mayor’s Office?

I’m the underdog in this race, just like many Richmonders who’ve had to fight for everything they’ve got.

I know what it’s like to face hardship, and that’s why I’m committed to making sure this city works for everyone, not just the few. I’ve spent my life helping local families and businesses overcome challenges with simple solutions to complex problems.

I believe Richmond needs a mayor who truly understands the struggles of everyday people. I’m running to bring real change, focusing on affordable housing, better jobs and a safer city for every neighborhood.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Two big issues I see in Richmond are true affordable housing and the lack of good job opportunities. Too many Richmond residents are being priced out of their homes, feeling penniless and powerless, and families are forced to make impossible decisions every day. These challenges aren’t just statistics, they are real-life struggles. We need to ensure Richmond residents can afford to live here and have access to stable jobs that allow them to build a future for themselves and their families.

How do you plan to address these issues as mayor?

As mayor, I’ll push for more affordable housing options to keep people in their homes without being priced out. I’ll collaborate with the Economic Development Department to attract tech companies and businesses that pay median or higher salaries, creating stable job opportunities for residents.

I’ll also expand partnerships with the Richmond Technical Center to offer certifications and trade programs, so students can enter the workforce right after graduation. By working with local companies to create a viable curriculum, we’ll ensure Richmond residents are prepared for good paying jobs in growing industries. This will help build a stronger, more affordable future for all.

Harrison Roday

Education: B.A. in government and finance with accounting concentration from the College of William & Mary Occupation: Founder of the nonprofit Bridging Virginia.

Top 2 Civic/community activities: Founder of Bridging Virginia, a non-profit that helps small Black and woman-owned businesses obtain access to capital board member and former chair of the board of Foodshed Capital, a non-profit that extends lowinterest loans to small farms, including zero-percent interest loans to Blackowned farms.

Email: contact@rodayforrichmond. com

Website: rodayforrichmond.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for the Mayor’s Office?

I’m a proven Democrat with the values and experience to hit the ground running on day one. I started my career working for President Obama and Sen. Kaine, so I know the importance of having leaders who truly listen to people and advocate for them. During the height of COVID-19, I started Bridging Virginia, a non-profit that supports small, Black- and womanowned businesses getting access to capital, because everyone deserves a fair shot. We’ve extended over $1 million in low-interest loans to area businesses. That’s the type of problemsolving and investment that I’ll bring to Richmond as mayor.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Too many Richmonders are struggling to stay in their homes due to rising rents and property taxes. As mayor, I will invest $100 million in affordable housing. I have also endorsed Mayor Levar Stoney’s RVA Stay Plan, which will provide targeted financial relief to both renters and homeowners.

We must end gun violence in Richmond. The Richmond Free Press published my plan to take on gun violence, which includes establishing a Mayor’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention. I am a Moms Demand Action Gun Sense candidate and will stand up to Gov. Youngkin, who has vetoed common sense gun safety legislation.

How do you plan to address these issues as mayor?

We will solve the city’s problems by partnering directly with the city’s workers, community leaders and the people of Richmond. Our campaign has been endorsed by a broad coalition that makes up our Democratic Party. They include the Richmond Education Association, which represents more than 1,200 public schoolteachers and support staff; the front line City workers represented by SEIU and the Teamsters; the civil rights leaders of Richmond Crusade for Voters; and New Virginia Majority, who builds power in working-class communities of color. Together, we can tackle every challenge and build a city that works for everyone.

Michelle Mosby

Maurice Neblett

ANDREW “GUMBY” BRETON

District: 1st District

Education: Bachelor’s in system engineering, University of Virginia; master’s in applied economics, Duke University

Occupation: Financial data engineer

Top 2 civic/community activities: Previous chair, Richmond City Democratic Committee and Mary Munford Elementary School PTA

Email: info@bretonforrichmond.com

Website: bretonforrichmond.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for City Council?

I am offering experience, relationships and vision. Before I ran for council, my plan was to work with our Richmond House Delegation on coordinating Richmond’s regional requests for the General Assembly. These are things like equitable school funding, sewer system improvement funds, or regional housing efforts. On council, I will be even better positioned to do this.

I’ve been building relationships with other council members and our House Delegation for years, and this will be vital for finding solutions for Richmond together.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Affordability and city management. First District residents are strained by years of rising home prices and assessments. They are paying much more in taxes and do not feel that they are seeing a commensurate improvement in services. I intend to take Richmond to the next level, with walkable neighborhoods, wellfunded schools, and a vibrant Downtown, all of which is downstream from good management. We have years of audits and inspector general reports prescribing the investments necessary to modernize and improve our processes so that our money is spent effectively.

How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

Our next mayor must invest in new technology, training and transparency, and we on council must prioritize those investments in the budget. I also expect us on council to do the work of administrative oversight by asking the right questions, before lawyers and journalists are forced to do so.

We need to attack housing affordability on multiple levels, including zoning reform and tax reform. For deeply affordable units we must invest in land trusts and project-based vouchers, direct subsidies, tax rebates and simpler city approval processes.

ZAC WALKER

District: 1st District

Education: VCU, bachelor’s in business administration (finance) / certified energy manager

Occupation: Key account manager Dominion Energy

Email: zacwalkerrva@gmail.com

Website: zacwalkerrva.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for City Council?

I bring a fresh, non-partisan perspective focused solely on our community’s needs. With experience as a civic association president, I understand our city’s challenges and potential. My commitment is to improve infrastructure, ensure fiscal responsibility and enhance our schools. I will prioritize sustainable development that preserves Richmond’s unique character. Unlike others, I am dedicated to serving Richmond without seeking higher political office, ensuring my full attention is on making our city the best it can be.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Infrastructure improvement and sustainable development. Our city’s infrastructure needs significant upgrades to support growth and ensure safety. Additionally, while Richmond’s desirability has increased, it’s crucial to manage development responsibly to maintain our unique character. By addressing these issues, we can enhance the quality of life for all residents and preserve what makes Richmond special.

How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

To address infrastructure improvement, I will advocate for increased funding and prioritize projects that enhance safety and connectivity. For sustainable development, I will implement a thorough evaluation process for proposals, ensuring they align with community values and long-term benefits. By focusing on these areas, we can support Richmond’s growth while preserving its unique character.

Richmond City Council candidates

MARIA CARRA ROSE District: 3rd District

Education: VCU, bachelor’s in fine arts, minor in psychology

Occupation:Fractional HR consultant, Augmenti Consulting, LLC.

Top 2 civic/community activities: Current vice president Battery Park Civic Association, past president, secretary and founding member of Northside Strong.

Email: MariaCarraRose@gmail.com

Website: carraforcouncil.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for City Council?

Richmond is at a pivotal point, being recognized as a top tier city, and with the influx of people coming into this community from Northern Virginia, and Hampton Roads we need collective leadership that will ensure that the roots of the community are upheld as well as seeing a vision that will help guide the city as we grow. I have been a member of this community for a quarter century, while I may be seen as a ‘come here’ by some, I am a lifelong Virginian who knows what community engagement is by living and breathing it.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

People are sincerely concerned about being able to obtain housing, keep the housing that they have, and ensure that they can stay in their homes as they enter retirement. I want to ensure that all of our cherished community members who have so much to give to future generations are given the comfort of remaining in their homes.

The second concern that is top of mind is safety. This comes in many forms, depending on what part of the community you reside within. Some are concerned with our lack of resource officers, needing policing is top of mind. To ensure that they are safe and secure in their homes. Safety for others looks like infrastructure and transportation.

How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

I want to create a community dialogue that will go beyond the bounds of typical candidate/constituent back and forth, to ensure that the issues that I am hearing about are addressed and resolved. I want to create a space where people feel heard. I want to show up in the community, for community and with community to develop a relationship that is designated by the people who live, work and thrive there. I believe in the power of community engagement to direct how I will yield the power vested in me by the people.

SARAH ABUBAKER

District: 4th District

Education: James Madison University, bachelor’s of political science, Virginia Commonwealth University, master’s in public administration

Occupation: Director of strategic communications, Collegiate School

Top 2 civic/community activities: Vice chair, Richmond Performing Arts Alliance and Forest Hill Neighborhood Association

Email: 4thdistrict@sarahabubaker.com

Website: sarahabubaker.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for City Council?

Voters should support me because I bring 17 years of experience as a dedicated community advocate and leader. As a former president of the Westover Hills Neighborhood Association, I have a proven track record of fostering resident engagement, supporting local businesses and strengthening neighborhood schools.

I am committed to addressing housing affordability, fixing critical infrastructure, and collaborating with my colleagues on council and with the mayor, to create effective solutions. With a background in public administration and experience managing teams, and will aim to bring transparency, accountability, and innovative thinking to City Hall. I am a lifelong resident and mother who is deeply invested in Richmond’s future and is ready to listen and advocate for the needs of all residents.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

My top priority is to ensure that our city’s necessary growth doesn’t leave behind lifelong residents. I aim to build affordable housing while protecting against speculative developers who buy middle-income properties only to turn them into high-end housing. By focusing on affordable, community-centered growth, we can maintain our neighborhoods’ character and ensure everyone can continue to live here.

Another top priority is addressing our infrastructure needs. Recent events, like the catastrophic sewer line collapse along the Forest Hill corridor, highlight the urgency. We must invest in aging critical systems like sewer and water management to protect our environment. Additionally, I advocate for projects that positively impact residents’ daily lives—improved walkability with new sidewalks, bike lanes, and traffic calming measures.

How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

To address these priorities on a city level, I plan to advocate for policies that limit speculative development and promote affordable housing. This includes implementing stronger regulations on teardowns and offering incentives for preserving existing homes. I’ll work to encourage developments that provide a mix of housing options for all income levels, ensuring lifelong residents can remain in their communities.

For our infrastructure needs, I will push for investments to upgrade aging sewer and water systems. Additionally, I’ll prioritize projects that improve daily life — expanding sidewalks, adding bike lanes, and introducing traffic calming measures. By collaborating with city officials and stakeholders, we’ll create a modern, accessible city for all residents.

District: 6th district

Education: Norfolk State University

Occupation: Barber

Top 2 civic/community activities: Executive director of the Historic Brookland Park Collective and CEO of the Northside Food Access Coalition.

Email: willie@williehilliard.com

Website: williehilliard.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for City Council?

I am a native of the City, doing community engagement for nearly 20 years. I know what the people of Richmond need because I have been a worker, a renter, a parent and a community leader. And what we need is for government to work for us and not big business.

I have a solutions-driven approach to community engagement which has allowed me to help so many people in this city. I want to bring that approach to City Hall and actually do the work of serving the people.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Housing and public safety. Housing should be considered a right and not a privilege, yet with so few affordable options, our city leaders continue to prioritize pushing uneven and inequitable developments through.

As I’ve been out talking to voters around the 6th District, one common theme I keep hearing is a concern about public safety, and it’s absolutely true that too many people in the district and many other areas of Richmond are at risk of being harmed or killed, whether that’s by something like the historically-elevated rate of traffic violence or by being the victim of a crime.

How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

I think to meet the city’s housing goals and fight displacement of existing communities we should encourage more medium-density housing developments instead of top-down “mega” projects, and believe that wealthy neighborhoods should not be exempted from this trend.

First, we need to make changes to our infrastructure to passively reduce threats to public safety. For example, if we want people to feel and be safer walking around when it’s dark, we should be installing more lighting in more areas.

Second, we need better and more community-oriented policing focused largely on preventing and solving serious crimes.

ERIC SUNDBERG

District: District 7

Education: Bachelor’s in history (University of Mary Washington), candidate for master’s of urban and regional planning (Virginia Commonwealth University)

Occupation: Chief of staff in the Virginia House of Delegates

Top 2 civic/community activities: Assisting working people with finances, life-planning, health care, housing and food insecurity. Assisting organizations in drafting and lobbying for legislation in all levels of government to better their materials conditions, protect their freedoms and correct injustices.

Email: eric@votesundberg.com

Website: votesundberg.com

Why should voters support you as

a candidate for City Council?

Voters should support our campaign because I bring a fresh, solutions-oriented perspective. I’ve spent years advocating for affordable housing, sustainability and inclusive city planning. Our campaign focuses on putting people above profit, ensuring all voices are heard, and delivering on promises that improve the daily lives of residents. Together, we will put power in the hands of everyday working people, improve city services and build a city that works for all.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Affordable housing and economic inequality. The housing crisis is displacing long-time residents and driving up costs across the city. At the same time, we see a lack of equitable investment in job opportunities and local businesses, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. We need to use the tools of government to shift power to working people — to unions, to civic groups, to residents — pulling back the curtain on quid pro quo contributions and arcane approval processes. How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

I will champion policies prioritizing truly affordable housing such as formbased zoning, ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) and rent caps. I’ll push to enforce stronger tenant protections. I’ll push to invest more in community land trusts. To tackle economic inequality, I’ll advocate for expanding wealth by lowering the barrier to entry for small businesses and co-ops. Additionally, I’ll introduce legislation to create a trust for all residents, offering micro-loans to promote home improvements, building repairs, home-buying and foreclosure and eviction avoidance. Saving just a small percentage of our annual tax revenue, we can create a safety net with our own wealth.

REvA TRAMMELL

District: 8th District

Education: High school graduate

Occupation: Current 8th District council representative

Top 2 civic/community activities: Member of the Richmond Crusade for Voters and the Richmond City Democratic Committee.

Email: Revatrammell8@gmail.com

Website: Revatrammell.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for Richmond City Council?

I know the citizens in the 8th District and what they want, as I have fought for them for many years and continue to do so. There has been so much development going on in our district – including affordable housing. Currently, there are five more projects being developed and we are fighting for even more. I would also like to have a coliseum built at the site where the casino was to be built. This would be a magnet to bring hotels, restaurants, grocery stores and jobs for the citizens.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Taxes are too high and forcing people to face eviction. With rising assessments every year that are out of control we cannot continue to expect the citizens to pay these outrageous amounts. Infrastructure upgrades are needed in the City of Richmond. As of 2023 only 56% of roads in the city were considered “good.” We also need sidewalks fixed due to growing trees, chipped curbs and sharp cut-off sidewalks. There are parts of the city that do not even have sidewalks or crosswalks, especially in the 8th and 9th districts. These need to be installed. Flooding due to stormwater drainage has also been a constant issue in the South Side. How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

I have introduced an ordinance to my fellow members of City Council to reduce the real estate tax rate from $1.20 down to $1.16 per $100 of each individual’s assessment. This is a great start to help our citizens with tax relief. There are two other council members who are co-Patrons on this alongside me.

I am working very hard to get this passed for the citizens of Richmond. Currently, the city has a $16 million surplus, part of which can be used to fix these infrastructure issues. I also plan to introduce an increase in the city’s budget to address this.

FRANK

H.

WILSON

JR.

District: 8th District Education: Bachelor’s from Rice University and masters from Liberty

University.

Occupation: Prior to announcing my candidacy I was working for the Supreme Court of Virginia as a magistrate.

Top 2 civic/community activities: Active participant in the Oak Grove Civic Association for years currently serving as the vice-president. Involved with the greening and beautification of the district by participating in many tree planting/give away activities, neighborhood cleanups, and the planting of several gardens in the district.

Email: frankwilson4rvadistrict8@ gmail.com

Website:frankwilson4rvadistrict8.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for Richmond City Council?

First and foremost, I care about people and this is the main reason I am running for City Council. I will affect changes that make a real difference in residents lives and not try to force-feed them things they are not asking for.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

There are about seven top issues residents of the 8th District voice. The two that likely have the biggest financial impact are housing and food insecurity. Citywide would be accountability of city government to citizens and transparency.

How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

I plan to put the levers of government back in the hands of the people. This will be done by giving attention to priorities important to Richmonders so that things get done that addresses their priorities and make a difference in their lives. It is not feasible to expect that all the city’s needs are to be met on the backs of the taxpayers. So, I will seek out and partner with other branches of government, nonprofits, businesses etc. to address these issues.

District: 9th District

Education: Strayer University, Bachelor’s business administration

Occupation: Deputy director at ART

180

Top 2 civic/community activities: My top Civic/Community engaged activities are serving on the School Board and City Council. In the community I am a board member of Mending Walls and Drums No Guns Foundation, where I support art as a tool for social justice and healing.

Email: info@nicolejonesrva.com

Website: nicolejonesrva.com

Why should voters support you as a candidate for City Council? I am an elected official who believes cultivating and developing relationships with my constituents and beyond. I bring deep experience as a community organizer, business strategist and advocate for community and restorative justice. I use a community-based approach, and grassroots organizing. My commitment to equity, transparency, and accountability ensures every voice is heard. With a proven record of problem-solving and building partnerships, I will work to strengthen our neighborhoods, enhance economic opportunities and champion policies that uplift all residents, especially the most vulnerable.

What do you see as the top 2 issues facing Richmond?

Affordable housing and economic inequality. Rising housing costs are displacing long-term residents and straining families, requiring policies that expand affordable housing options and protect renters. Economic inequality continues to limit opportunities for many Richmonders, especially in underserved communities, necessitating investment in job creation, education and equitable development. By addressing these issues, we can build a more inclusive and thriving city for all.

How do you plan to address these issues on City Council?

To address affordable housing, I will advocate for policies that expand the development of affordable units, support renters’ rights and promote programs that assist first-time homebuyers. I will push for incentives to encourage developers to include affordable housing in new projects and work to strengthen eviction protections.

For economic inequality, I plan to support initiatives that create job opportunities, especially in underserved communities, by investing in workforce development and small business support. I also will prioritize equitable funding for education and advocate for increased access to quality child care, healthcare and resources that enable economic mobility for all Richmond.

WILLIE HILLIARD

NICOLE JONES

Voter roll removals draw national scrutiny as election nears

By Markus Schmidt

Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s executive order to remove more than 6,000 Virginians from the voter rolls has come under intense national scrutiny after the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a lawsuit challenging its legality. With just weeks until the Nov. 5 election, the suit has amplified concerns over voter disenfranchisement and the integrity of the state’s election process mirrored in other states leading up to the presidential contest.

On Fox News

Sunday, Youngkin defended his move, arguing that it was based on a law signed in 2006 by then-Gov. Tim Kaine, a Democrat.

“To be clear, this is not a purge,” he told host Shannon Bream. “To describe this as something that’s a purge is completely inaccurate, it’s wholly consistent with the U.S. Constitution, the Virginia Constitution and Virginia law.”

individuals identified as noncitizens to the list of registered voters. Local registrars were then required to notify voters whose citizenship status was challenged, informing them that their registration would be canceled unless they confirmed their citizenship within 14 days.

The DOJ’s lawsuit argues that the voter removals disproportionately affected minority communities and may have wrongfully removed eligible

voter rolls,” Youngkin said.

Last week, Youngkin also talked with CNN anchor Jake Tapper, who pointed out that the issue with the executive order wasn’t the program itself but approving it within 90 days of the election — the so-called quiet period — which the DOJ suit argues is prohibited under federal law.

“Why is it that anyone could argue that a process that removes non-citizens off of our voter rolls is anything other than common sense and constitutional?” Youngkin asked, adding that he was “frustrated” with the department’s decision to sue 25 days before the presidential election.”

On Monday, a federal judge in Alexandria ordered the Virginia Department of Elections to disclose the names of individuals removed from the state’s voter rolls by the Youngkin administration.

The ruling came in response to an earlier lawsuit from the League of Women Voters and the Virginia Coalition of Immigrant Rights, which challenged Youngkin’s Executive Order 35 signed in August, authorizing “daily” updates to Virginia’s voter rolls.

These updates involved comparing the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles’ list of

voters without adequate notice or due process less than 90 days before a presidential election — placing Youngkin’s executive order at the center of a growing national debate about voting rights and election security. On Sunday, Youngkin sought to clarify how his administration handled the process.

“It starts with a basic premise that when someone walks into one of our DMV’s and selfidentifies as a noncitizen, and then they end up on the voter rolls, either purposely or by accident, that we go through a process individualized, not systematic, an individualized process based on that person’s self-identification as a noncitizen, to give them 14 days to affirm they are a citizen and if they don’t, they come off the

WHEN WE VOTE, WE WIN.

Tapper’s interview with Youngkin further caused a stir because of their heated exchange over recent comments that former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, made about the U.S. military.

During a Fox News appearance, Trump suggested deploying the National Guard or military on Election Day to prevent potential unrest, citing the threat of “the enemy from within,” which he described as “radical-left lunatics.”

Tapper asked Youngkin, “Is that something you support?” In response, the governor shifted the focus to border issues.

“What former President Trump is referring to are the individuals crossing the border who are committing crimes, bringing drugs, trafficking humans, and turning every state into a border state.”

Youngkin emphasized that, although Virginia is not a border state, it still feels the effects of “10

million people illegally crossing the border every single day.”

Tapper countered that while the problems at the border are real, that’s not what Trump was referring to. “He was talking about sick people, radical-left lunatics who should be handled by the National Guard or the military.”

In response, Youngkin said he “can’t speak” for Trump. Instead, he said he believed the CNN anchor misinterpreted the former president’s rhetoric and was “misrepresenting his thoughts.”

Stephen Farnsworth, a political scientist at the University of Mary Washington, said the legal fallout over Youngkin’s executive order and the subsequent debate in the national media

will likely benefit the governor’s desire to remain in the public discourse.

“I think Gov. Youngkin is available to the national media because he wants to keep Republicans thinking about Glenn Youngkin. With the one consecutive term limit, Youngkin’s political fortunes may be improved with greater national media visibility.”

As the fallout from the DOJ and League of Women Voters lawsuits continues, other states are also addressing concerns about voters being removed from rolls within the “quiet period.”

A federal court order temporarily halted the Alabama Secretary of State’s “plan to ‘inactivate’ people the office

suspected of not being U.S. citizens,” the Alabama Reflector reported Oct. 21. Another legal battle may be on the horizon in Ohio. Several voting rights groups, led by the American Civil Liberties Union, on Oct. 3 sent a letter to Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, a Republican, raising concerns about mass voter removals in several counties. The groups argue that the removals did not comply with the requirements of the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) and have warned they are prepared to take legal action if corrective measures are not implemented within 20 days. This story originally appeared on VirginiaMercury. com.

When our rights are on the line we fight and when they’re on the ballot we vote, because we’re not going back.

The economy is on the ballot. Health care is on the ballot. Criminal justice reform is on the ballot. Reproductive freedom is on the ballot.

Environmental justice is on the ballot. The right to vote is on the ballot.

If we do our part and show up to the polls, we will make history (again)!

Let’s vote for progress and the future we deserve. Vote for the leader who’s been fighting for us for years.

Election Day is November 5th. Vote for Kamala Harris.

Graham Moomaw/Virginia Mercury

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin speaks to reporters outside the Capitol during the 2024 General Assembly session.

Richmond Free Press

October 24-26,

Black-eyed Susans in Museum District

Oh yes, she can: Kamala for president

Recently, on our editorial page we took issue with Democratic presidential candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris. As she was riding high from the bump and buzz that comes from a successful political convention, she wasn’t talking to the media that much. Perhaps a soundbite here and there as she was coming or going to an event, but no meaningful conversations with the men and women who are writing the first draft of history. We were concerned that perhaps this was a new strategy developed by her campaign, to use social media and other forms of controlled-by-candidate messaging to get the word out — cutting out the middleman, so to speak. It appears that our fears and concerns were unfounded.

Since that editorial, the vice president has proven that she’s not scared of video cameras, microphones or reporters. In recent weeks, she’s done a town hall with Univision, the Spanish-language television network, visited with the outspoken women on “The View,” the popular daytime talk show, “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” and walked straight into the lion’s den, sat down and talked to (and scolded) a Fox News anchor. On the radio and podcast side, she’s been a guest on “The Howard Stern Show,” appeared on the “Call Me Daddy,” podcast and chopped it up with pseudo-intellectual radio show host Charlamagne Tha God, who hosts the popular radio program “The Breakfast Club.”

As you might imagine, these programs and platforms have vastly different audiences and formats. Some of the hosts are funny. Some are crass. Some are smooth and professional. But whatever the vibe of these outlets, it didn’t seem to matter in terms of her level of engagement and connection with the audience — the former prosecutor acquitted herself well.

Her versatility shows she can step into any environment and make it her own. Whether she’s answering tough questions or bantering with a talk show host, she speaks with confidence, enthusiasm, and, most importantly, the ability to connect with voters across a wide range of demographics.

“There is a strategy to this stuff,” said Mathew Littman, a former Biden speechwriter, to “Deadline.” “These complaints from old media are absolutely ridiculous. Not only do I think it is a good idea, we should have been doing it a long time ago,” he said.

In contrast, the candidate on the other side seems to have retreated into his bubble. He’s been canceling interviews and appearances, choosing to sway to the familiar sounds of his own tired refrains while what remains of his base looks for the nearest exit.

One outlet referred to Harris’ tour of various outlets as a “media blitz” that might serve as an “October Surprise.” That may well be. But more than just strategy, Harris has demonstrated the willingness and confidence to meet voters and media on their own terms — a quality that would serve her well in the Oval Office.

The Richmond Free Press is proud to endorse Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, for president and vice president. Together, they have demonstrated their commitment to advancing policies that uplift everyone, and we’re proud to stand behind them in this pivotal moment.

Some of you may have noticed that this is the only endorsement we’re making this year. We’ve decided to follow the path of other progressive newspapers in this regard, who have moved away from endorsements, citing concerns about bias and maintaining journalistic integrity. We hope that we’ve given you enough information in our coverage of the candidates and the issues to make an informed decision and vote like you mean it.

The voice of the voter

Former President Obama gave us a lot to think about concerning the Black vote, the Democratic Party, and the issue of misogyny.

While speaking to HarrisWalz campaign volunteers and officials at a Pittsburgh field office, Obama’s comments highlighted the complexities of the Black voting bloc within a male- and a white-dominated society.

feeling the idea of having a woman as president. And you’re coming up with other alternatives and other reasons for that.”

the Democratic Party represented the Conservatives. The Black voting bloc is like no other. It must continue to protect full citizenship for people of color.

While Democrats, as the modernday Progressive Party, depend on other voting blocs such as labor unions and young voters, they will never have the historical significance of the Black voter.

There are specific reasons why Black men and women are currently the two largest voting blocs supporting the Democratic Party. Historically, individuals who embraced the progressive movement and ideology were defenders of social justice, equality, and inclusion. Progressives fought for full citizenship for Black people

“My understanding, based on reports I’m getting from campaigns and communities, is that we have not yet seen the same kinds of energy and turnout in all quarters of our neighborhoods and communities as we saw when I was running,” Obama said.

That lack of enthusiasm for Harris, he said, “seems to be more pronounced with the brothers.”

The former president’s rebuke was directed toward those who were considering not voting at all. “And you are thinking about sitting out?”

He said, “Part of it makes me think — and I’m speaking to men directly — part of it makes me think that, well, you just aren’t

David W. Marshall

through the 14th Amendment. Progressives helped to overcome various forms of injustice by fighting for the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which dismantled official segregation; the Voting Rights Act of 1965, prohibiting racist voting laws; and the 1968 Civil Rights Act, ending discrimination in housing sales.

The truth lies in the fact that citizens representing Black communities as voters need the Progressive Party. In turn, the Progressive Party needs the Black voting bloc. This two–way dependency was true during the Civil War and Reconstruction eras when the Republican Party represented the Progressives, and

Trump’s ‘day of love’

I was delighted but, alas, not all that excited by the platform of policies that Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled to court Black male voters last week.

Her “Opportunity Agenda for Black Men” offers a big package of promising ideas. They in clude business loans for Black entrepreneurs, legalization of marijuana and closer regulation of the cryptocur rency market, a response to the widely alleged exploitation of Black men in the market.

I don’t expect these policy proposals to put an end to the old gripe that the Democrats “forget about us until it’s election time.” But it may help shore up a key constituency Harris needs to win the presidential election; in a tight race, even little trends can make a big difference.

Some 70% of Black men in the most recent New York Times/ Siena College national poll of Black likely voters declared their preference for Harris — more than men in any other demographic group. That’s not a reason to rest easy, especially since the polls show the race between Harris and Donald Trump to be, in my view, stubbornly close to a tie. That the race is so close at this point is a bit of a shock to many of us, given Trump’s almost single-minded efforts to drive away so many different types of voters.

His behavior and language recently have slipped from “weird” to downright bizarre.

Despite the legislative and social gains made in previous years, the efforts to diminish full citizenship have never ceased.

What determines a person’s voice? Everyone has a voice through their spoken and written words. Using our voices, we can express our individual opinions, points of view, and passions regarding critical issues impacting our society. It cannot be words without some degree of work behind it. There has to be action behind the right words. As citizens, our vote also is our voice. Therefore, a person’s bias and disrespect of others can come forth through the voice of their vote.

To counter and resist the potential of this election narrative, the Black voting bloc is not blind in its support for progressives. Rather, it appreciates the sacrifices of those from the past.

The legacy of the voting bloc has never walked away from

far from lovely

Yes, we have all grown perhaps too accustomed to Trump’s wild, rambling descriptions of immigrants, for instance, so much so that it barely raises eyebrows when he yet again calls them “animals” or warns that “they’ll cut your throat.”

Then there is the question of Trump’s mental fitness for the

job. At a recent town hall in Oaks, Pa., Trump stopped taking questions after two people required medical attention — and, as the crowd began to sing “God Bless America,” Trump suggested “Ave Maria” instead.

Inexplicably, this led Trump to discard plans to take questions and ask his team to play what turned out to be more than a half hour of his musical favorites.

Most disturbing to me is how Trump on Wednesday shrugged off the idea that his conduct on Jan. 6, 2021, should cost him the backing of Republican voters. When called upon at a televised town hall by an ex-Republican voter to account for his dereliction that day by failing to call off the violent mob that stormed the Capitol, Trump called it “a day of love.”

“Nothing done wrong at all,” Trump said in a lengthy response.

“There were no guns down there; we didn’t have guns,” he added. “The others had guns, but we didn’t have guns.”

Just to be clear, Trump here used

“we” to refer to those who swarmed the Capitol, roughly 730 of whom have pleaded guilty to charges related to the event, and a further 130 of whom

were convicted after taking their cases to trial, according to The Associated Press. More than 330 served time for their offenses, people whom Trump terms “hostages.”

“The others” who “had guns” were the Capitol police, at least 140 of whom were injured fighting to protect the seat of our nation’s government. Four Capitol police officers committed suicide following the attack.

It’s no wonder that so many Republicans who held high positions in Trump’s administration, including former Vice President Mike Pence — whose life was threatened Jan. 6 for not going along with Trump’s plot to overturn the 2020 election — are publicly withholding support from him this year.

In the town hall, Trump demurred that only “a very small portion” don’t support him.

“But because it’s me, somebody doesn’t support, they get a little publicity,” he said.

Right. We know how much the former president cares about publicity.

However much we may want to dismiss this palaver as “Trump being Trump,” his followers hear and understand exactly what he’s saying. Such as the thousands who went to Washington after he tweeted: “Big protest in D.C. on January 6th. Be there, will be wild.”

“They didn’t come because of me,” Trump said Wednesday. “They came because of the election. They thought the election was a rigged election, and that’s why they came.” Rigged? Gee, I wonder where they got that idea.

The writer is a columnist for the Chicago Tribune.

those in the modern-day fight for justice, inclusion and maintaining the full citizenship rights for all people. When today’s politics is filled with anti-woke, anti-DEI, anti-CRT rhetoric, the Black voting bloc has reasons to support progressives. The Southern strategy exists under new management but with the same goals. The long-standing relationship between the Black voter and the Democratic Party is sometimes perceived as onesided. Defending the party, particularly on the local level, is not always easy in specific cases. The Black vote is sometimes taken for granted. In a two-party system, too often, a vote comes down to selecting the lesser of two evils.

The writer is the founder of the faith-based organization TRB: The Reconciled Body and author of the book “God Bless Our Divided America.”

Clarence Page

Letter to the Editor

REGS endorses School Board candidates

The Nov. 5 election presents an extraordinary opportunity to bring about positive change to our School Board.

The current School Board has too often shown an indifference toward good governance, as demonstrated by their failure to schedule – until the very end of this board’s term of office – the governance training they are legally required to undergo by the state Department of Education.

Richmond needs a School Board that is known for its work to support students and positive educational outcomes, not as a venue of drama, political posturing and needless conflict. This may be our best opportunity to make that happen.

Richmonders for Effective Governance of Schools (REGS) is working to help all Richmonders take advantage of that unique opportunity by providing them with the knowledge they’ll need to be informed voters. We have conducted a rigorous, community member-led vetting process to identify and endorse School Board candidates who are 100% committed to equity, good governance, improving student outcomes and moving beyond the dysfunction and division that has often plagued the board. We urge all Richmond voters to use our endorsements, as well as those compiled by other community groups, to learn as much as they can about the candidates.

Following is REGS’ slate of endorsements for Richmond City School Board:

1st District: candidate Matthew R. Percival.

2nd District: candidate Katie B. Ricard.

3rd District: candidate Ali Faruk.

4th District: incumbent Garrett L. Sawyer.

5th District: incumbent Stephanie Miller Rizzi.

6th District: REGS makes no endorsement.

7th District: incumbent Cheryl L. Burke. 8th District: candidate PH “Cruz” Sherman. 9th District: incumbent Shavonda Dixon. All Richmonders — including college students and retirees in addition to parents of school- age kids — have a huge stake in this School Board election. Why? Because the performance of our School Board determines the performance of our public schools, and the performance of our public schools affects every Richmonders’ economic, social, and cultural quality of life. When students are able to succeed, we all prosper. REGS is an independent, non-partisan group of concerned citizens consisting of a 14-member Steering Committee and 20+ neighborhood

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To learn more about REGS and our candidate endorsement process, or support our work, write to REGS4RPS@gmail. com or visit Facebook.com/ REGS4RPS Thank you.

Richmonders for Effective

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 28, 2024 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber, located at 900 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.

Governance of Schools

Steering Committee:

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 $1.16 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 28, 2024 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber, located at 900 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.

Yankees and Dodgers meet in World Series for 12th time

By Ronald Blum

The Associated Press

Broadway vs. Hollywood. Subway vs. Freeway. Judge vs. Ohtani.

New York neighbors who became cross-country rivals, the Yankees and Dodgers renew their starry struggle in the World Series for the first time in 43 years.

“When you’re playing for the Dodgers and playing for the Yankees, it better feel different,” LA manager Dave Roberts said at Yankee Stadium last June. “If not, you better do something different for a profession.”

Two of baseball’s most successful teams face each other starting Friday at Dodger Stadium, the Yankees coming off their 41st American League pennant and the Dodgers their 25th National League championship. New York is seeking its 28th World Series title but first since 2009, the Dodgers their eighth and second in a five-year span.

Yankees pinstripes vs. Dodgers Pantone 294. The Bronx Bombers vs. the Dem Bums’ descendants. The granite-andlimestone of new Yankee Stadium on chilly autumn nights

vs. Dodger Stadium in sunny Chavez Ravine, with the San Gabriel Mountains beyond the pavilions.

“It’s kind of what the people wanted, what we all wanted,” Dodgers star Mookie Betts said.

“It’s going to be a battle of two good teams, a lot of long flights across the country.”

New York is 8-3 against the Dodgers in the most frequent World Series matchup, including 6-1 against Brooklyn and 2-2 since the rivalry became Big Apple against Tinseltown.

Mickey Owen, Al Gionfriddo, Cookie Lavagetto, Sandy Amoros, Johnny Podres, Don Larsen, Sandy Koufax and Reggie Jackson created indelible images in the matchup, which started in 1941 with one of the wackiest World Series turns.

Trailing 2-1 in the Series, Brooklyn led 4-3 with two outs in the ninth inning at Ebbets Field when Tommy Henrich swung and missed at strike three from Hugh Casey. The ball bounced away from Owen and rolled toward the Dodgers dugout as Henrich reached on the dropped third strike. Joe DiMaggio singled, Charlie Keller hit a two-run double and Joe Gordon added

Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Johnny Podres is lifted by catcher Roy Campanella (39) after the final out of the seventh and deciding game of the World Series at Yankee Stadium, Oct. 4, 1955, in New York. another two-run double later in the inning as the Yankees won 7-4 and went on to win the title in five games.

Lavagetto’s two-out, pinchwalk-off double in the ninth ended Bill Bevens’ no-hit bid in 1947’s Game 4 and two

Virginia State defeats Elizabeth City State 36-7

Free Press staff report

Virginia State University (4-3, 3-1 CIAA) secured a commanding 36-7 victory over Elizabeth City State University (2-5, 0-4 CIAA) in a revenge match after last season’s loss. The Trojans’ defense delivered a stellar performance, holding the Vikings to minus-47 rushing yards.

The game began with Virginia State forcing a punt on Elizabeth City’s opening drive. Starting at midfield, quarterback Romelo Williams connected with Jimmyll Williams for a 30-yard touchdown, giving the Trojans an early lead. The first quarter ended with no additional points.

In the second quarter, Virginia State relied on its running game but had to settle for a field goal, extending their lead to 10-0. Shortly after, the Trojans forced a fumble on the Vikings’ next possession, setting up another field goal from kicker Joshua Campbell to make it 13-0. Romelo Williams nearly connected for another touchdown before halftime but missed his target, leaving the score at 13-0 at the break.

Virginia State came out strong in the second

half, with J. Williams breaking free for a 45-yard rushing touchdown, extending the lead to 20-0. The Trojan defense quickly forced a three-andout, and J. Williams followed up with another explosive 47-yard rushing touchdown. However, a fumble on the next possession allowed the Vikings to recover and score from the 4-yard line, putting ECSU on the board at 20-7.

The Trojans’ defense continued to dominate in the fourth quarter. After turning the ball over on downs, ECSU found themselves pinned at their own 1-yard line. Virginia State’s Mustapha Coly sacked the Vikings’ quarterback, causing a safety and increasing the lead to 29-7. On their next drive, Romelo Williams connected with Tylique Ray for a 68-yard touchdown pass, sealing the final score at 36-7.

J. Williams finished the game with 164 rushing yards on 18 carries, two rushing touchdowns, and one 30-yard receiving touchdown. Jayshaun Alston recorded four sacks, contributing to the Trojans’ 11 total sacks on the day.

Virginia State will visit Bluefield State University on Oct. 26 at 6 p.m.

games later Gionfriddo robbed DiMaggio of a tying three-run homer.

New York beat the Dodgers again in 1949, 1952 and 1953, frustrating the fans in Flatbush, but Brooklyn finally won the title in 1955 when Podres

pitched a Game 7 shutout at Yankee Stadium and Gil Hodges drove in both runs. Amoros preserved the lead when he made a running catch of Yogi Berra’s sixth-inning drive in the left-field corner with two on and relayed to shortstop Pee Wee Reese, who threw to Hodges at first and doubled up Gil McDougald. Those players were celebrated in Roger Kahn’s 1972 book “The Boys of Summer.” Larsen pitched the World Series’ only perfect game in 1956’s fifth game in the Bronx, Berra jumping into his arms after the final out, and the Yankees won Game 7 behind Johnny Kucks’ three-hit shutout in what turned out to be the last World Series game at Ebbets Field.

Walter O’Malley moved the Dodgers to California after the 1957 season, and Koufax had an interlocking “LA” on his cap instead of a “B” when he struck out a then-Series record 15 in the 1963 opener at Yankee Stadium. The rivalry didn’t resume until 1977 with the first of three matchups in a five-year span.

Jackson’s three home runs led the Yankees to a clinching win in 1977’s Game 6. The Yankees won another six-game

the following year,

stops on Reggie Smith, Steve Garvey and Davey Lopes. Los Angeles lost the first two games in the Bronx in 1981, and then won four in a row — capped by a 9-2 victory that had Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda dancing. The defeat prompted Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, his right hand bandaged after an alleged fight with Dodgers fans in a hotel elevator, to issue a written apology “to the people of New York and to the fans of the New York Yankees everywhere.”

Both teams feel the history created by their predecessors.

“You put that jersey on and those pinstripes, it just feels different,” Yankees slugger Juan Soto said. Los Angeles took two of three when they met in a muchhyped series in June. Roberts is reminded of the history when he approaches Dodger Stadium.

“I can’t believe I’m driving up Vin Scully Way, when I go to work,” he said. “It’s overwhelming, but I try not to let my head go there too often; I just try to do my job.”

Richmond hands Delaware first loss of the season, 28-9

Free Press staff report

In a fitting conclusion to a long-standing rivalry, the University of Richmond Spiders handed No. 6 Delaware its first loss of the season on Saturday, using four first-half touchdowns to secure a 28-9 victory. With the win, Richmond improved to 5-2 (3-0 CAA), while Delaware fell to 6-1 (3-1 CAA). The game marked the final Colonial Athletic Association meeting between the two programs, as Delaware is set to join FBS Conference USA and Richmond heads to the Patriot League in 2025.

Richmond’s explosive first half, featuring three touchdowns in the second quarter, propelled the Spiders to their fifth consecutive victory.

“Nobody out there thought we were going to win this game,” Richmond Coach Russ Huesman said. “We believed we could win, and our guys played really hard. We didn’t play it perfectly, but we found a way.”

Delaware opened the scoring with a field goal at 10:53 in the first quarter, but Richmond took control from there. Quarterback Camden Coleman capped a 75-yard drive with a 1-yard keeper at 7:36 in the first quarter, putting the Spiders ahead 7-3. Coleman’s 40-yard pass to Nick DeGennaro, followed by an 11-yard connection to Ja’Vion Griffin, set up the touchdown.

Richmond extended its lead early in the second quarter when Coleman found DeGennaro for

Byers nears record as Virginia Union routs Lincoln

Free

Running back Jada Byers rushed for 215 yards and two touchdowns, leading Virginia Union University to a 63-12 victory over Lincoln University of Pennsylvania on Saturday. Byers is now just 19 yards shy of Andre Braxton’s school rushing record of 5,006 yards. With 60 career rushing touchdowns, he’s also approaching Braxton’s record of 62 rushing TDs.

Panthers quarterback Mark Wright went 10-for-15,

throwing for 210 yards and four touchdowns. Receiver Reginald Vick Jr. caught four passes, three for touchdowns. Defensive standout Jabril Norman contributed four tackles and a sack. “We played with lots of energy today,” VUU Coach. Alvin Parker said. “I was proud of the entire program for today’s victory. We can enjoy this for a small period but it’s back to work tomorrow.”

The Panthers travel to Bowie, Md., on Saturday, Oct. 26, to face Bowie State University at 1 p.m.

the previously undefeated Blue Hens to their lowest point total of the season.

a 23-yard touchdown, following a fumble recovery by Jabril Hayes that gave the Spiders the ball at their own 21-yard line.

The Spider defense forced a Delaware three-and-out on the next possession, highlighted by a three-yard tackle for loss by Carter Glassmyer and a sack from Jeremiah Grant. Richmond capitalized on its next drive, with Zach Palmer-Smith scoring a one-yard rushing touchdown to make it 21-3.

Delaware responded with its only touchdown of the game but failed on a two-point conversion after Jordan Allen intercepted a pass in the end zone. Richmond struck again on the next drive, as tight end Matt Robbert scored his first career touchdown on a six-yard pass from Coleman, capping an 11-play, 75-yard drive that consumed nearly six minutes of the clock.

“We went out there with high energy and with high execution early,” Coleman said. “Today I feel like we stepped up and came together, and it translated into the second half.”

Richmond’s defense shut down Delaware in the second half, holding the Blue Hens scoreless. Glassmyer led the Spiders with eight tackles, including one for a loss. Grant, who leads the nation with eight sacks, added another sack to his season total, while Camden Byrd

recorded 1.5 sacks and broke up a pass. Quantraill MorrisWalker notched his second interception of the season in the fourth quarter.

“I told the team earlier today that the team that wins the turnover battle will win this game,” Huesman said. “We didn’t turn the ball over, but they did. We made some huge fourth-down stops, and I’m proud of both sides of the ball.” Richmond outgained Delaware with 378 total yards to the Blue Hens’ 324. Coleman went 16-for-23 for 194 passing yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 79 yards on 10 carries. The Spiders amassed 184 yards on the ground, while Delaware was limited to just 36 rushing yards.

Delaware entered the game averaging over 42 points per contest, but Richmond held the Blue Hens to their lowest point total since a 7-point outing against Penn State on Sept. 9, 2023.

“The offense making plays gives a spark to the whole team,” Galloway said. “[The defense] made plays when we needed to make plays and when it mattered the most.”

Richmond looks to extend its win streak Oct. 26 when it travels to face Bryant University. Kickoff is set for noon in Smithfield, R.I.

AP Photo, File

Series

highlighted by third baseman Graig Nettles’ diving

Courtesy of VSU Athletics

Virginia State kicker Joshua Campbell delivers as the Trojans extended their lead in a dominant win over Elizabeth City State.

Press staff report

Jada Byers

Courtesy University of Richmond Athletics

Richmond’s Quantraill Morris-Walker (#9) makes a key defensive play during the Spiders’ 28-9 victory over Delaware on Saturday. Richmond’s defense forced multiple turnovers and held

Personality: Dr. Anthony L. Fludd

Spotlight on the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy board chair

Dr. Anthony L. Fludd’s commitment to tackling social justice issues of our time led him to join the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP). His involvement with the organization’s advocacy work is a testament to his dedication to service.

He works to support all of the VICPP chapters around the state on issues such as gun violence, racial discrimination, prison reform and health bias. His current hot-button issue is affordable housing, and he’s drawing upon his experience working with religious organizations to make a difference.

“Many churches have space and land that’s not being utilized,” Fludd said. “That’s why we’re working with churches around the state to build affordable housing in that unused space.”

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, Virginia is facing a critical shortage of affordable and available housing, with a deficit of 183,843 units, 37,164 of which are in the Metro Richmond area. This underscores the urgent need for initiatives like VICPP’s affordable housing projects.

VICPP is partnering with Virginia Housing and Virginia Episcopal Real Estate Partners to leverage faith properties for housing initiatives. Fludd is working to get the word out to congregations about the potential for developing affordable housing in unused church spaces.

“One of my colleagues in Memphis has been successful with this,” Fludd said. “Because churches are nonprofit organizations, they can work with state and federal agencies for funding opportunities.”

Meet the social reformminded pastor working for change as board chair for Virginia’s largest advocacy group and this week’s Personality:

Volunteer position: Board chair for the Virginia Interfaith Center; executive officer of the Church of God in Christ VA 2nd Jurisdiction’s Pastors and Elders Council in Newport News.

Occupation: Assistant pastor of St. Johns Church of God in Christ; president and co-founder of the Covenant Care and Ministerial Outreach organization.

Date and place of birth: Feb. 16 in South Carolina.

Where I live now: Williamsburg.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in health/hospital administration from Ithaca College; master’s in professional studies in health care administration from Long Island University; and doctorate of ministry from the Graduate Theological Foundation in Indiana.

Family: Wife, Robin, three daughters, sons in love and nine grandchildren.

Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP) is: Anon-partisan coalition of 25,000 members, which includes 750 houses of worship, 1,000 clergy of all faiths, and people of goodwill, many partners and affiliate organizations, most of the judicatory leaders in the state and activists in every House and Senate district in Virginia, all working for a more just society.

Mission: To engage people of faith and goodwill in advocat-

ing economic, racial and social, justice in Virginia’s policies and practices through education, prayer and action.

When and why founded: Founded in 1982, the organization focuses primarily on issues of racial, social and economic justice.

Founders: A group of religious leaders, including The Rev. James Payne founding director, The Rev. Fletcher Lowe, Bishop Walter Sullivan and others began meeting informally to work on human needs public policy.

Location: 1716 E. Franklin St.

Our membership includes: We work with Virginians of all faiths, including people who identify as Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Bahai, humanist, spiritual, not religious and people of goodwill.

Why the work we do stands out: At VICPP, we have a track record of effectiveness. We make real changes in policies by engaging and influencing public policy at the General Assembly. Our work is currently focused on four areas: health equity, affordable housing, criminal justice reform and support for working families.

Funding: VICPP receives most of its financial support from foundations and individuals who care about our work and religious sources, such as congregations and judicatories. We also host fundraising events.

Partnerships: We work with people in every legislative district in the state. The VICPP has a large 30-member board and a professional team guiding our organization, working with the various denominations. We connect with faith-based organizations and people who are spiritual or not connected to any religious organization.

I initially got involved with VICPP: Eight years ago and learned a lot about advocacy and capital witnessing. The organization shares resources such as facts and talking points with our supporters to assist them in their advocacy efforts.

When elected board chair: January 2023.

No. 1 goal as board chair: To achieve consensus among our diverse 30-member board, ensuring every voice is heard and fostering a healthy board culture. We have learned that

consensus-building leads to decision-making that empowers unity.

Positive impact I have witnessed through working with VICPP: The faith community is deeply concerned about economic and racial inequities in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the VICPP is working to advance systemic changes.

VICPP living wage certification programs recognize employers who are already paying their workers a living wage. VICPP assists consumers in patronizing businesses that provide living wages. We challenge employers who could raise wages and choose not to do so, by publicizing and promoting an ethical alternative to discourage practices that drive down wages and standards.

Election 2024 and VICPP: 2024 is an important year for Virginia elections. We are asking congregations to commit to having 100% participation in the electoral process.

VICPP and endorsements: As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, the VICPP is prohibited from endorsing candidates for any political office.

Ways we hope to make a difference during this election season: We are encouraging all congregations to pledge to be 100% voting congregations. You can take the pledge at virginiainterfaithcenter.org You can volunteer to be an election monitor by signing up at protectthevoteva.org. You can join our Souls to the Polls on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 27. Three polling stations will be open and VICPP will be providing fish and chips at food trucks. For more information, email our

Civic Engagement Coordinator, Robert Lester – Robert@ virginiainterfaithcenter.org.

How readers can contact and get involved with VICPP: Sign up for our weekly newsletter at virginiainterfaithcenter. org

Upcoming events and details: Sunday, Oct. 27, from 1 to 5 p.m. is Souls to the Polls in Richmond.

How I start the day: With prayer and exercise.

The three words that best describe me: Prophetic, bold and humble-advocate.

Best late-night snack: Popcorn.

A quote that inspires me:

“We have everything we need to live a life that pleases God. It was all given to us by God’s own power. When we learned he had invited us to share in his wonderful goodness.”— 2 Peter 1:3

The best thing my parents ever taught me: Decide what you want to be in life and be it.

Person who influenced me the most: Bishop Ithiel Clemmons, the pastor of my childhood. Book that influenced me the most: “Pedagogy of the Oppressed” by Paul Freire, it shows why true liberation can be elusive and very fragile.

Next goal: As Morrie Schwartz once said, “It’s important to be occupied with and focused on things and issues that are of interest, importance, and concern to you, and to remain passionately involved in them.” VICPP helps me fulfill this role as an advocate for the voiceless.

Dress up and join us for food, fun, &

J

Step Afrika! weaves

Black history and dance traditions

By Julinda D. Lewis

The Step Afrika! company’s collaborative work “The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence” began in 2011 as a way to explore the roots of the uniquely African American art form of stepping. The complex polyrhythms of stepping embody West African movement and music traditions, and the art form’s development in America is deeply intertwined with the history of Black Greek organizations. Director Jakari Sherman, a choreographer and ethnochoreologist who studies dance in its cultural context, drew on his experience as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to forge connections between stepping’s African roots, the Great Migration and Jacob Lawrence’s iconic paintings.

“The Migration” incorporates all 60 panels of Lawrence’s Migration Series as both scenic backdrop and historical framework. The collaboration weaves together stepping, contemporary and West African dance, live music (from traditional drumming to original compositions), and Kenann Quander’s vibrant costumes into an immersive experience that honors the Great Migration’s cultural legacy.

The 17-member professional company (all college graduates, many of whom attended HBCUs and are members of Black Greek fraternities and sororities) performs at the Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26. What makes this stop on the tour unique is that the company will be performing with The Legendary Ingramettes, the powerhouse inspirational gospel group from Richmond. The group and Step Afrika! were both part of the 2022 cohort of NEA National Heritage Fellows.

“The Migration,” said Sherman, “will teleport you to another space and time.”

The performance traces a journey from West African shores through the rural American South, with the second act following Black Americans’ northward movement from the antebellum South to the cultural flowering of the Harlem Renaissance and beyond. Sherman sees parallels between this historical migration and contemporary conversations about immigration

“The Migration invites us to examine our own family histories,” he says. “I want audiences to leave asking: How did we get to where we are today, regardless of where we came from? These questions should inspire them to learn more.”

Wellness expo offers free health resources, workshops

Radio One Richmond and Anthem HealthKeepers Plus have joined forces to present their first Community Health and Wellness Expo, a free event designed to promote comprehensive wellness approaches for area residents. The expo, themed “Wellness from A-Z,” will take place Nov. 2 at the Victory Theater and Event Center.

The four-hour event will address physical, mental and spiritual well-being through a variety of interactive programs and resources.

“We believe that wellness encompasses all aspects of life, and this fair is an opportunity for the community to explore resources that support physical, mental and emotional health,” said Mat Myers, operations manager at Radio One Richmond. “By bringing together health professionals, local businesses and community members, we hope to inspire a holistic approach to well-being.” Featured activities will include fireside chats with wellness professionals, interactive workshops covering nutrition and mental health, and exhibits from local health-related businesses. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with health experts and gather information about improving their overall well-being. Light refreshments will be provided.

The expo, co-sponsored by Safe Space Residential, represents a significant initiative to address community health needs in the Richmond area. Local vendors will be on hand to showcase health-related products and services, while educational panels will focus on key areas, including fitness and spiritual care.

The event will be held Saturday, Nov. 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Victory Theater and Event Center, 7903 Midlothian Turnpike.

For additional information about the Community Health and Wellness Expo, visit Radio One websites: kissrichmond.com, praiserichmond.com or theboxrichmond.com

Photos by Jati Lindsey

Members of Step Afrika! perform “The Migration,” a dance production inspired by Jacob Lawrence’s artwork tht blends stepping traditions with contemporary choreography.

Baldwin symposium returns to Virginia State with Nikki Giovanni

Free Press staff report

Virginia State University is set to welcome an extraordinary lineup of scholars, artists, and literary giants for the Second Triennial James Arthur Baldwin International Symposium, headlined by the legendary poet Nikki Giovanni as artist-in-residence. The three-day event, starting Oct. 24, promises to immerse attendees in the legacy of Baldwin through thought-provoking discussions, readings, and cultural reflections.

This year’s symposium, themed “The (Un)Cowardly Lion with the Unapologetically Clarion Voice,” will honor Baldwin’s lasting legacy through readings, discussions and keynote speeches. Giovanni, a distinguished emerita professor at Virginia Tech, is widely recognized for her literary achievements and has received numerous awards, including the 2022 Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize and several NAACP Image Awards.

The symposium will take place over three days at two locations: the Petersburg Public Library’s Conference and Event Center for the first two days and VSU’s Gateway Event Center on the final day. Featured speakers include prominent intellectuals such as Molefi Kete Asante, chair of Africology and African American studies at Temple University, and Maulana Karenga, creator of Kwanzaa and chair of Africana studies at California

State University, Long Beach. Award-winning filmmaker and Morgan State University associate professor MK Asante also will participate.

Daniel Jason Baldwin, nephew of James Arthur Baldwin, will offer a centennial reflection on his uncle’s legacy as one of the most influential writers and activists of the 20th century.

“Baldwin’s body of work stands out in the literary canon as one of the most sublime, prolific, and imposing of the 20th century,” said Pamela D. Reed, professor of English at VSU and founding executive director of the James Arthur Baldwin Africologic Institute. “Thus, his works and words are closely examined to pinpoint recurring themes and motifs that, even now, more than three decades since his passing, continue to resonate with — and inspire — generations of thinkers and scholars.”

During the symposium, attendees will have the opportunity to hear readings of Baldwin’s essays, poems, and plays, participate in roundtable discussions, take guided tours and screen the documentary “James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket.”

“This event not only celebrates the profound legacy of one of the most influential literary and cultural figures of the 20th century but also provides an invaluable space for thought-provoking discourse, reflection, and collaboration among scholars, students and the community at large,” said Tia A. Minnis, VSU provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, including the full schedule and lodging options, visit vsu.edu.

Reform Alliance and Roc Nation connect job seekers with open positions at job fair

Free Press staff report

Reform Alliance and Roc Nation organized a job fair in Richmond that connected job seekers with over 1,500 open positions from various employers last week.

The event, held at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, aimed to remove employment barriers for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, particularly those on probation or parole.

Thirty-six employers participated, including Amazon, Starbucks, Foot Locker, Goodwill and Crunch Fitness, as well as local employers from the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Hundreds of positions were available from state and local government agencies, including the Virginia Department of Corrections, Virginia Department of Transportation and the City of Richmond.

The event drew significant interest from more than 2,000 job seekers. Attendees had the opportunity to interview on site for open positions and receive valuable reentry support services, such as makeup, barber or hairdresser services, free suits and other professional attire, and résumé review and interview preparation. Law firm Reed Smith provided expungement

education and services with support from law students at the University of Virginia and community organization Nolef Turns Inc.

Thirteen community organizations, including Q.E.D. Systems and Neighborhood Resource Center, provided support to ensure job seekers felt confident as they approached employers and advanced their careers.

“It’s been a struggle to find work since I came home, but this was an incredible event — one of the best things I’ve done,” said Jessica S., who interviewed with Amazon and Foot Locker and was recently released from incarceration. “Since my release in August, I’ve been actively looking for a job and struggled to get hired. I was amazed to see so many employers ready to give opportunities to formerly incarcerated people here.”

Amazon and Foot Locker invited her back for second-round interviews following the job fair.

Virginia has been grappling with a severe workforce shortage, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, with nearly twice as many open positions as available workers. This job fair provided a solution, matching untapped talent —

many of whom were locked out of the workforce due to a criminal record — with employers actively hiring.

The job fair is part of Reform’s commitment to creating employment pathways and supporting people on probation or parole in Virginia and nationally. In addition to hosting job fairs, the alliance regrants a portion of its funding annually to support local organizations that provide critical services to people returning home from incarceration or otherwise impacted by the criminal justice system. The organization also formed the Virginia Safety Coalition, a diverse, bipartisan group committed to improving Virginia’s supervision system and increasing access to second chances.

“Reform is proud to be a part of the community here in Virginia and open doors for justice-impacted individuals,” said Jessica Jackson, CEO of Reform Alliance. “When we invest in people, especially those who have faced barriers due to probation, parole, or a criminal record, we strengthen not just individual lives but entire communities. Every job secured today is a step toward breaking the cycle of recidivism and creating more just and safe communities.”

Nikki Giovanni

James A. Baldwin

Center last week.

Harris ramps up engagement with Black church

By Jack Jenkins and Adelle M. Banks Religion News Service

When a Detroit pastor asked Vice President Kamala Harris on Oct. 15 about her alleged “lack of engagement” with Black church leaders, the Democratic presidential contender looked visibly taken aback. Harris rejected the accusation, calling it “misinformation” that originated with former President Donald Trump’s campaign. But the moment, coming during a town hall in Detroit organized by radio host Charlamagne tha God, showed her perceived vulnerability with Black voters.

“They are trying to disconnect me from the people I have worked with — that I am from,” said Harris, who has a connection to Hinduism through her mother but also was raised in the Black church and is a member of Third Baptist Church of San Francisco. She has “been actively engaged” with Black church leaders “throughout my career and as vice president,” including, she said pointedly, “recently.”

Indeed, Harris, who called her pastor, the Rev. Amos Brown, before announcing her presidential campaign in July, made a blitz of campaign appearances meant to shore up support among Black churchgoers. It’s a familiar strategy for Democratic politicians, who have long visited Black churches near Election Day, hoping to maximize turnout among a critical segment of the party’s base.

But experts say Harris’

recent appearances in faith settings don’t measure the full scope of her outreach to Black Christians. While some analysts have raised concerns about lagging support for the vice president among Black men especially, others told RNS she has been quietly courting African American support in multiple ways.

Harris recently launched a “Souls to the Polls” initiative to magnify the voter participation efforts Black churches have organized for decades, and her campaign has established a faith advisory board that is tasked with connecting with Black churches in swing states.

Her appearance with Charlamagne tha God came on the heels of a visit Sunday to Koinonia Christian Center, a church in Greenville, N.C., where a packed congregation clapped and shouted boisterously throughout her address. Harris told the congregation that she learned at an early age to think of faith as “a verb” and that believers “show up in action and in service.”

While lamenting the damage wrought across the state last month by Hurricane Helene, the vice president referred to scripture.

Harris said the Apostle Paul “reminded them and us, that God calls us not to become weary of doing good. Because we each have the power, God tells us this, the power, each one of us, to make a difference.”

Anthea Butler, a historian of African American and American religion at the University of Pennsylvania, said Harris has touched Black Christians in less obvious ways, pointing to Harris’ decision not to attend Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress in July. The move, Butler argued, likely resonated with Black church leaders who have been vocally critical of the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip.

Equally as telling, Butler said, was the event Harris chose to attend instead of the Netanyahu speech: An event for the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, one of the “Divine 9” Black sororities and fraternities that are seen as cultural power-

houses in the African American community.

“It’s always been the case that Black churches have had some kind of engagement with other Black organizations, be that sororities, fraternities, cultural and civic organizations, and others,” Butler said. “There are all these other tentacles that come out of the Black church that are intertwined within the Black community.”

The overlap was evident for the Rev. Jay Augustine, general chaplain of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Augustine spearheaded a “Souls to the Polls” event on Oct. 20 at his church in North Carolina in concert with other Black civic groups, including sororities. He

recently co-hosted a webinar to encourage houses of worship and members of the fraternities and sororities to take similar get-out-the-vote efforts on Alpha’s “Souls to the Polls Day,” where people leave the pews after worship and caravan to the voting centers where early voting is available.

“One of the fundamental tenets of our fraternity, one of our mottos, if you will, is a voteless people is a hopeless people,” said Augustine, pastor of St. Joseph AME Church in Durham, which Harris visited in 2019, and who considers Harris a friend.

Still, polls have shown Harris struggling to gain traction with Black men: A recent New

Riverview Baptist Church

York Times/Siena College poll of likely voters found that 70% of Black men back Harris, while 20% said they would vote for Donald Trump — a 15-point drop from 2020, when 85% of Black men likely to vote said they planned to vote for President Biden. Black churches’ traditional efforts, meanwhile, may not reach Black men as they have in the past: According to a 2021 Pew poll, Black men are more likely than Black women to be religiously unaffiliated, with 26% claiming no religious tradition compared to 18% of women.

But Butler expressed confidence that Black men would ultimately side with Harris and voiced concern that Democrats

may blame Black men if Harris loses. “Why isn’t anybody asking why white people keep voting for Trump?” Butler said.

Augustine, too, said he remains optimistic about Harris’ chances. Given his fraternity’s close alignment with its sister sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, to which Harris belongs, he predicted most voters in his fraternity’s membership will cast a ballot for the vice president.

“The Black community is not a monolith,” he said. “Alpha Phi Alpha is not a monolith. So I’m not saying that 100% of Alphas are voting for her. I certainly can’t speak for everyone, but casting a broad net, which I think is accurately cast, I would say the vast majority of members of our fraternity will be supporting her.” Harris seemed equally confident about her support among Black Christians, based less on ties to the Black community than on a contrast she made between her beliefs and those of her opponent, who recently made headlines for endorsing a $60 “God Bless the USA Bible.” In her interview with Charlamagne tha God, Harris said Trump and many of his supporters “suggest that the measure of the strength of a leader is based on who you beat down,” a spirit which is “absolutely contrary to the church I know.

“My church is about saying true leadership (is) based on who you lift up,” Harris said. “Then he’s selling $60 Bibles or tennis shoes and trying to play people, as though that makes him more understanding of the Black community? Come on.”

Squirrel-O-Ween returns to The Diamond

Free Press staff report

The Richmond Flying Squirrels will host their annual SquirrelO-Ween event Friday, Oct. 25, at The Diamond from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Squirrel-O-Ween provides a safe and fun environment for children to trick-or-treat throughout the stadium, according to a press release from the team. The event also will feature hayrides around the warning track of The Diamond.

Attendees are encouraged to come in costume for a chance

To advertise in the Richmond Free Press call 644-0496 or email advertising@ richmond freepress

to win prizes in various categories, including “Squirrelliest,” “Best Group,” “Best Duo,” “Scariest,” and “Most Creative.” In addition, a “Dress Like Your Dog” contest, in partnership with Woofy Wellness Ranch, will offer K9 prizes for the winners. Costume contest winners will be announced at 8 p.m.

During the event, a flash sale will be held for fans to purchase tickets for the 2025 opening night game on April 4 and the Independence Day Celebration on July 3. Tickets can be purchased in person at The Diamond’s ticket booths.

Nutzy and Nutasha, the Flying Squirrels mascots, will be available for photos, and food and beverages will be available for purchase at the concession stand on the first-base side. Parking is free in the lots at The Diamond. This year’s event is sponsored by AAA Mid-Atlantic and supported by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Flying Squirrels will begin their 2025 season Friday, April 4, at The Diamond against the Akron RubberDucks. Full-season memberships are currently available, and the full 2025 schedule can be found on the team’s website.

Legal Notices/Employment Opportunities

The City of Richmond announces the following project(s) available for services relating to: IFB No. 250004052: Richmond Signal System Phase IV UPC 118148

For all information pertaining to this IFB, please logon to the Richmond website (www.rva.gov).

Bid Due Date: November 25, 2024/Time: 2:00 PM

Pre-Bid Conference Call Meeting: October 31, 2024 at 10:00AM

Information or copies of the above solicitations are available at the City of Richmond website www.rva.gov or https://procurement.opengov.com/ portal/rva. The City of Richmond encourages all contractors to participate in the procurement process.

The City of Richmond announces the following project(s) available for services relating to: IFB 250001592: Jahnke Road Improvement (UPC 19035)

For all information pertaining to this IFB, please logon to the Richmond website (www.RVA.GOV).

Bid Due Date: November 13, 2024/Time: 2:00 PM.

Pre-Bid Meeting: October 23, 2024/Time: 2:00PM.

Information or copies of the above solicitations are available by contacting Procurement Services, at the City of Richmond website (www.RVA. GOV) or faxed (804) 646-5989. The City of Richmond encourages all contractors to participate in the procurement process.

DRPT FY26 PUBLIC NOTICE

The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT)

are available through multiple state and federal funding sources to special assistance to participate in the grant application process as

N. Laburnum Avenue Pedestrian and Transit County of Henrico, Virginia Notice of Willingness to Hold a Public Hearing

The County of Henrico proposes to provide approximately: 2,250 linear feet of 5 foot wide sidewalk, curb ramps and crosswalks, 900 linear feet of curb and gutter, including an enclosed storm drainage system, and lane widening of approximately 9 feet to match adjacent pavement widths in some locations, a wooden pedestrian bridge to avoid extending two box culverts, improvements to two bus stops that could include shelters and other amenities, and ten dedicated park and ride spaces

Henrico Recreation Center. Improvements are proposed along the eastern side of N. Laburnum Avenue between Harvie

currently planned for August 2026.

Project information which includes the construction plans, project schedule, National in the form of a Programmatic Categorical

Part 800 information, and funding information can be reviewed at the County of Henrico, Department of Public Works, Administration

Henrico County is willing to hold a public hearing. You may request a public hearing by sending a written request to Kevin Programmer

writing, along with a cover letter to news@richmond freepress.com or mail to: