Richmond Free Press March 30-April 1, 2023 edition

By Sarah Rankin The Associated Press

Family, friends and other mourners gathered Wednesday at a Virginia church to remember Irvo Otieno at a funeral service, celebrating his life and calling for mental health care and policing reforms after the 28-year-old Black man’s death earlier this month while in custody at a state psychiatric hospital.

“He had an illness. He should have been doctored to, not treated with brutality,” said civil rights leader the Rev. Al Sharpton, who delivered the eulogy.

Other speakers recalled Mr. Otieno as an empathetic, energetic and well-respected friend, teammate and musical artist during the service at First Baptist Church of South Richmond,Ironbridge, as they vowed to seek justice for his death.

Mr. Otieno, whose family said he had long struggled with mental illness, died March 6 after he was pinned to the floor by sheriff’s deputies and others while being admitted to Central State Hospital in Dinwiddie County. Seven deputies and three

Richmonders want funding for schools, housing, less gas

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Fund the full request for Richmond Public Schools. Improve our parks. Fully fund the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and fund repairs for decaying mobile homes. Protect the environment by planning for elimination of the city’s gas utility.

Bagby wins Va. Senate special election

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Henrico Democratic Delegate Lamont Bagby, as anticipated, crushed Republican rival Stephen J. “Steve” Imholt in Tuesday’s voting for a Richmond-area seat in the state Senate.

Unofficial results from the state Department of Elections show Delegate Bagby defeating the software and computer specialist by a nearly 9 to 1 margin in the special election in the 9th Senate District that includes portions of the city as well as Charles City County and parts of Hanover and Henrico counties.

Once the results are certified next week, the 46-year-old businessman and lawmaker, who has served eight years in

Those were among the ways that least 20 speakers urged City Council to amend the 2023-24 budget plan at a public hearing Monday night.

The nine-member governing body is now reviewing the plan that Mayor Levar M. Stoney introduced in

March and will begin considering amendments next week for the budget that will be effective July 1. At an informal session before the meeting, the council addressed one issue — funding repairs for mobile homes on which the Stoney administration appears to have dawdled.

The council approved $300,000 for such work last May in approving the 2022-23 budget, but the

Unsung hero

Richmond’s Randall Robinson reshaped American’s foreign policy, forced change in South Africa

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Seared by the segregation he grew up with in Richmond, Randall Maurice Robinson championed change in American policies toward African and the Caribbean nations that he considered unjust and undergirded by racial bias.

Artist, author, educator and lawyer, Mr. Robinson was best known for his leadership in the successful fight in the 1980s to end U.S. support for the harsh regime of racial oppression in South Africa known as apartheid – ultimately leading to Nelson Mandela’s release from prison and election as that country’s president.

Reviving the tactics of the Civil Rights

Hickory Hill community opposes planned fire training facility

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

In a retreat from a two-year-old policy of expanding parks and green space in overly hot South Side, Mayor Levar M. Stoney and his administration are quietly pressing to replace 2 acres of lawn at the Hickory Hill Community Center in South Side with a $1 million fire training building.

Next Monday, April 3, the Richmond Planning Commission, could settle whether to approve or reject the controversial proposal that has pitted residents of the area against their council representative and the life-saving department they generally support.

The Fire Department is seeking approval to develop the two-story building as a replacement for the outdated and condemned training facility it has used for years in the Sandston area of Henrico County.

The new building is to be formed from stacked shipping containers and be used a few days a year for required training of recruits.

An advisory arm of the commission has already rejected the proposal to develop the training building on land located on the west side

Movement, he led demonstrations and acts of civil disobedience, creating wide support and a mass movement that led Congress to impose sanctions that forced change in South Africa.

As a founder and executive director of the lobbying and policy group TransAfrica for 24 years, he also was a leading voice of support for democracy in Haiti and undertook a 27-day hunger strike in a bid to push President Bill Clinton into temporarily admitting Black Haitian refugees on the same basis as lighter-skinned Cubans.

Described as an unwavering foe of injustice and advocate for human rights, he also pressed

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administration has not put the money to work eight months later.

After scolding the city housing officials for failing to use the funds as the council directed, Council President Michael J. Jones, 9th District, joined a consensus in directing the administration to release the funds to the nonprofit project:Homes so repair and replacement of decrepit mobile homes can proceed.

The mayor has requested another $500,000 for mobile home improvement, but his administration

Another death at Richmond jail

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Another inmate has died at the Richmond City Justice Center.

The inmate has been identified as Jesse J. Trent, who had been held in the jail since December 2021 on parole violations and felony charges related to a shooting.

Mr. Trent was pronounced dead at a local hospital after he collapsed while playing basketball and could not be revived, the Free Press was told.

The Free Press received information that his death was due to a drug overdose as Narcan was administered, but that remains unconfirmed. Sheriff Antionette V. Irving has not issued a statement concerning the death.

Mr. Trent is one of at least five inmates who have died at the jail in the past 12 months, with several attributed to drug overdoses, despite denials from the jail staff.

Free Press

Caroline A. Ouko, the mother of 28-year-old Irvo Noel Otieno speaks Wednesday during her son’s funeral at First Baptist Church of South Richmond, Ironbridge, in North Chesterfield County. Standing with her is her eldest son, left, Leon Ochieng, and right, the Rev. Al Sharpton and Benjamin Crump.

Jeremy Lazarus/Richmond Free Press

The Rev. Monica Esparza stands on land at Hickory Hill Community Center where the city Fire Department wants to build a new fire training facility. She is among the opponents who want to keep the space green and undisturbed.

Many driving by the corners of Staples Mill and Mountain Roads in Glen Allen have been watching and wondering what is this building going up on the 12 acres since April 13, 2020. There was a private groundbreaking with just a few church leaders because of the timing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions then in place.

The answer: It is the Richmond Virginia Temple, the 177th operating temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the first in Virginia. The architecture of the temple is a blend of Georgian, Federal and Jeffersonian architecture that are adapted from European styles. Since the Temple is quite exquisite from the outside and it causes many to imagine what it looks like on the inside, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints typically provides an open house for the communities in which they build their temples for free guided tours. The public open house is from March 25 through April 15, 2023, except for Sundays and on Saturday, April

5 student honorees at VUU gala

By George Copeland Jr.

Virginia Union University students will take center stage and five honorees will be recognized for their contributions during the upcoming Legacy Awards and Scholarship gala on Friday, March 31.

VUU’s eighth Legacy Awards gala is hosted by Mayor Levar M. Stoney at the Greater Richmond Convention Center at 7 p.m. The event allows VUU students to highlight their skills and share their post-graduation plans, while the university raises revenue for scholarships.

“It is imperative that those of us who are blessed give back to others,” said VUU President and CEO Hakim J. Lucas in a statement. “This event is just one of many ways we can tangibly, financially contribute to the lives of our students and ensure that financial barriers do not prevent students from receiving a quality education.”

Honorees will include Lucille M. Brown, the first woman superintendent of Richmond Public Schools, who will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Virginia Hispanic Chamber Founder and CEO Michel Zajur, who will receive the Community Leader Award.

Victor Branch will receive the Corporate Leader Award for his work as the first African-American president for the Bank of America’s Richmond region, and the HBCU Impact Award will recognize the Altria Group. Also, the VUU National Alumni Association will receive the Beacon of Light Award.

For more information, please visit www.vuu.edu/giving/ legacy-awards-gala, or call 804-342-3938.

Upcoming exhibits seeks Vietnam War stories

Free Press staff report

March 29 was National Vietnam War Veterans Day, and this year the day marked the 50th anniversary of the withdrawal of the last American troops from South Vietnam. As Americans reflect on the service and sacrifices of Vietnam War veterans, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) is asking Virginians with personal connections to the Vietnam War to share their stories for a new exhibition.

“Virginia and the Vietnam War” is a temporary exhibition that will invite guests to immerse themselves in the choices, perspectives, and experiences of Virginians during the Vietnam War era. Although the Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon in 1975, Virginians continue to be divided over America’s participation.

The exhibition will explore the long-term impacts of the war on Virginia’s people, politics and culture and facilitate a greater understanding of this tumultuous time in American history. “Virginia and the Vietnam War” will open to the public on November 23, 2024 and remain on view through April 27, 2025.

The VMHC is seeking Virginians who experienced the war to interview for inclusion in the exhibition - including veterans, pro and anti-war activists, Vietnamese American refugees, military family members. The recorded interviews and transcriptions will be added to the VMHC’s oral history collection and made available to students, scholars and the general public.

For more information, please visit VirginiaHistory.org/ VAVietnam

2 Richmond principals recognized for leadership

Free Press staff report

Richmond Public Schools Principal Ta’Neshia Ford is the recipient of the 2023 R.E.B. Award for Distinguished Educational Leadership.

Mrs. Ford has been a principal at Virgie Binford Education Center since 2013, where she is recognized as strong advocate for some of the division’s most at-risk students who she has inspired and helped overcome barriers.

Under her leadership, the school had a 90 percent graduation rate for under-credited seniors, stated an RPS news release.

Shayla Holeman, the principal at Overby-Sheppard Elementary since 2019, is described as a “passionate and dedicated administrator,” using a team approach with parents to educate the whole child. This has led to increases in both reading and math scores, according to an RPS news release.

The award by the R.E.B Foundation and the Community Foundation recognizes principals who have gone above and beyond to create an exceptional educational environment for students, parents, faculty and staff.

1. The official dedication will take place May 7, 2023. A local Church spokesperson says this temple will serve at least 40,000 members from Virginia and West Virginia. This does not mean

Cityscape

Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

Forty thousand people will be in attendance at one time. Around the state there are numerous church buildings where members of the church attend their regular Sunday services. This property also has a smaller red building that will serve as an area meeting house people throughout the state, nation and world. Temple talking points

Property size: 12 acres.

Building size: 39,202 square feet.

Building Height: 164 feet, 9. Inches, including the statue of the Book of Mormon prophet Moroni.

Architect: The Richardson Deign Partnership.

Church architect: Lanny Herron.

Cost: The Church does not discuss money with the public.

RRHA seeks additional funds to maintain public housing

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

The city’s public housing authority needs to invest $42 million to fix the most urgent problems with roofs, boilers, plumbing, wiring and other aging infrastructure in the apartment communities it operates in Richmond, according the chief executive, Steven B. Nesmith.

Mr. Nesmith said the only problem is that annual federal appropriation to make the improvements will only cover about one-third of the cost, or about $14.2 million, that the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority faces.

“It’s just not enough money,” he said.

That’s why he said RRHA will seek grants from foundations and other private housing sources to increase the total funding available. “We need public-private partnerships,” he said.

Mr. Nesmith spoke during an East End ceremony Monday afternoon to present RRHA with its annual funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for capital needs.

U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner came to Richmond to highlight the funding going to RRHA, and drew Mayor Levar M. Stoney, four members of City Council, HUD officials and the staffs from RRHA and nonprofits engaged in affordable housing development. The senator presented an oversized check for $14 million, just shy of the actual $14.27 million that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development an-

nounced last month would be coming to RRHA during the current year to use for infrastructure repair and replacement.

HUD reported RRHA’s appropriation along with the specific funding for the more than 2,700 housing authorities across the country which manage public housing for the federal department. In all, $3.3 billion is being distributed nationally to address infrastructure needs in public housing, HUD stated in the Feb. 23 release.

The 2023 appropriation to RRHA represents a $2 million increase from the 2022 appropriation of $12.2 million for capital needs, according to HUD’s figures.

Mr. Nesmith said that RRHA’s problem is more severe than most “as we have the oldest public housing infrastructure” between Miami and New Hampshire on the Eastern seaboard, with the earliest public housing in the city dating to the 1940s.

University of Richmond has new provost

Free Press staff report

Joan Saab will become executive vice president for academic affairs and provost for the University of Richmond effective July 1.

Dr. Saab, an art history and visual culture scholar, currently is the Susan B. Anthony Professor of Art History and executive vice president of academic affairs at the University of Rochester, as well as interim dean of the faculty of Arts, Sciences & Engineering.

“Dr. Saab’s passions and expertise as a scholar and administrator align with our own institutional priorities,” UR President Kevin F. Hallock, said in announcing the appointment. “At her core, she believes

in advancing educational opportunities for students of all backgrounds, which echoes our commitments to academic excellence, access and affordability, and belonging.”

The recipient of numerous teaching, research and grant awards, Dr. Saab earned her undergraduate degree in English and art history from Tufts University, her master’s in American Civilization from The George Washington University and her Ph.D. in American Studies at New York University. Her second book, “Objects of Vision: Making

Sense of What We See” was published by Pennsylvania State University Press in 2021.

“I have long been impressed by the University of Richmond and look forward to working with the exceptional faculty, students, and staff to further strengthen the school’s sense of intellectual community and advance the academic mission,” Dr. Saab said. “Richmond’s commitment to creating a holistic and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive mirrors my own core values. I am extremely excited to join the web.”

Saab will succeed executive vice president and provost Jeff Legro, who will remain at UR as a full-time member of the faculty.

Local entrepreneurs recognized at awards gala

By Debora Timms

In a “Roaring ‘20s” themed event, the Metropolitan Business League recognized area entrepreneurs at the 33rd Annual MBL Awards Dinner & Reception. Nearly 500 guests attended the March 10 affair at the Altria Theater.

The nonprofit, membership-based business association was founded in 1968 with the vision of empowering small, women-owned and minorityowned businesses through relationship building, education, advocacy and access to resources.

Honoree James Ukrop, co-founder of Richmond-based venture capital firm NRV, was presented with the Oliver Singleton Humanitarian Award by MBL’s president and CEO, Floyd E. Miller II.

“It is indeed a pleasure to be honored

by the Metropolitan Business League with this award,” Mr. Ukrop said when accepting the award. “Best wishes to the MBL for much success as you continue to grow and provide needed advice, counsel and financial support to your members.”

Other award recipients during the evening included:

Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Eboni Jones, owner - Tint My Ride 804, and Vanessa Terry, owner - Notary

2 Notary Youth of the Year: Enzo Mason, owner - BLUE by Enzo

Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year: Marcy Thornhill, owner - Mrs. Marcy’s

Homemades

Master Entrepreneur of the Year: Bernard Robinson, CEO - Networking Technologies+ Support Trailblazing Partnership of the Year: Dyshahn Robinson, owner - Royal Flush Plumbing and Colonial Webb City of Richmond Minority Business of the Year: Michael Hopkins, ownerM Companies Non-Profit of the Year: Girls For A

Change, Angela Patton Social Vision of the Year: Ayanna McMullen, Founder - The Network Incubator and Ashley Williams, owner - BareSOUL Yoga.

Vision of Excellence: Capital One

MBL People’s Choice Award: Rita Ricks, owner - Rita Ricks, LLC

MBL Member of the Year: Antonio Miller

Black History Museum names new executive director

By Debora Timms

Shakia Gullette Warren will become the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia’s new executive director following an extensive national search. Her appointment is effective May 1.

Ms. Warren is an experienced museum professional who has worked as a public historian for more than a decade, according to the museum. She earned a bachelor’s in history from Fisk University in Nashville, Tenn., and served most recently as director at The Concord House Museum and Historic Site in Prince George’s County, Md.

“We are thrilled that Shakia accepted our offer to join BHMVA,” said Dr.

Monroe Harris, president of the board of directors, in announcing the appointment.

“Her background and knowledge, coupled with her evident passion for telling the stories of AfricanAmericans makes her an ideal fit to lead our team.”

Some of those stories are represented in the programs and initiatives Ms. Warren created during her tenure as director of the African-American History Initiative at the Missouri Historical Society in St. Louis and, prior to that, as curator of exhibitions for the Banneker-Douglass Museum in

Annapolis, Md.

BHMVA recently celebrated 40 years of telling the stories of Virginia’s AfricanAmerican people. Dr. Harris said the museum is eager to continue its work and find new ways to expand its reach into the community.

Ms. Warren shares in that excitement.

“I am truly honored to serve in this capacity and follow in the footsteps of the changemakers who came before me,” Ms. Warren said. “BHMVA is a remarkable institution with an extremely talented team with deep roots in Richmond’s community, and I look forward to fully immersing myself into Virginia’s rich culture and leading the institution into its next transformational stage.”

Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Ms. Warren

Dr. Saab

Mr. Ukrop

Mr. Nesmith

Mrs. Ford Ms. Holeman

Remembrances, calls for reform at funeral for Irvo Otieno

hospital workers have been charged with second-degree murder in his death, and an investigation is ongoing.

Video released earlier this month shows sheriff’s deputies and hospital employees restraining a handcuffed and shackled Mr. Otieno for about 20 minutes after he was forcibly led into a hospital room. For much of that time, Mr. Otieno was prone on the floor, pinned by a group so large it blocked the camera’s view of him at times.

Personnel who realized he appeared limp and lifeless eventually began resuscitation efforts, the video showed. Mr. Otieno’s family and their attorneys have said he posed no danger and was simply trying to breathe.

“You know he couldn’t fight back — he was handcuffed and shackled. And if we sound angry, it’s because we are,” Rev. Sharpton said.

Dinwiddie Commonwealth’s Attorney Ann Cabell Baskervill has said Mr. Otieno was smothered to death. An autopsy is still pending.

Mr. Otieno, who emigrated from Kenya as a child, spent most of his childhood in suburban Richmond. He was a “gregarious baby, a lively toddler, an energetic child, a fun-loving athletic

Richmonders want funding for schools, housing, less gas

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is looking to create a revolving loan fund to help the mostly low-income Latino residents of mobile homes buy new manufactured homes, though some council members are skeptical that approach would work.

During the informal session, the council also put a temporary hold on Mayor Stoney’s plan to use $1.7 million in surplus funds from the 2022-23 fiscal year that ended June 30 for a pilot scholarship program that would enable Richmond city graduates to attend community college with no tuition cost.

Council members wanted to hear more details about the proposal before signing off, which could happen at the committee hearing Monday, April 3.

At the budget session, 3rd District School Board member Kenya Gibson was among the advocates for a $7 million increase to fully meet the RPS request, rather than the reduced amount Mayor Stoney has recommended that would force cutbacks in programs and personnel.

On a night when the council honored the John Marshall High School basketball team for its state champion team that also has been ranked No. 1 among the nation’s high schools and whose coach, Ty White, has been honored as the top high school coach, Ms. Gibson said the best way to “show pride” in the team is to provide the additional funds for the schools.

The Rev. Ralph Hodge, pastor of Second Baptist Church, led a contingent from the nonprofit Richmonders Involved in Strengthening our Communities, to urge the council to release $6 million in previously appropriated money to the city’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund and also to provide $10 million from the general fund in the 2023-24 budget to bolster the fund that provides loans to build less costly housing.

The council was told that the mayor’s plan to borrow $50 million during the next five years to support development of more affordable housing would require the city to pay more than $85 million in interest to and sharply limit the trust fund’s impact in encouraging development of more affordable homes and apartments.

In the view of the RISC contingent, the mayor’s proposal undermines a council ordinance from two years ago that called using general fund dollars to support the trust fund.

Other speakers urged the council to allow front line supervisors in public works and public utilities to unionize, noting that they are part of the teams that handle repair and improvement work alongside the workers.

The city’s failure to push for action on climate change in laying out plans for investing hundreds of millions of dollars for replacing old gas pipes and installing new ones rather than encouraging a switch to electrical appliances and heating systems, also was noted by speakers.

The city is currently selling at least 35 percent less natural gas than it did in 2000, one speaker noted, forcing remaining customers to pay more to cover the utility’s costs. Council was urged to consider that the city’s utility will continue to lose customers and needs to prepare for a cleaner energy future rather than sticking with a fossil fuel that will eventually be replaced by power generated by wind, solar and other renewable sources.

Free COVID-19 vaccines

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205-3501 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday for more information on testing sites, or go online at vax.rchd.com.

The Virginia Department of Health also has a list of COVID19 testing locations around the state at www.vdh.virginia.gov/ coronavirus/covid-19-testing/covid-19-testing-sites.

Want a COVID-19 vaccine or booster shot?

The Richmond and Henrico health districts are offering free vaccines for COVID-19 and more at the following locations:

• Thursday, March 30, 4 to 7 p.m. - Sacred Heart, 1400 Perry St., Primary Moderna shots for age 6 months to 5 years old and bivalent boosters for age 6 years and older, Primary Pfizer shots for age 6 months and older, bivalent boosters for age 5 years and older, Novavax primary shots for age 12 and older, and boosters for age 18 and older, and baby bivalent boosters. Walk-ups welcome but appointments encouraged.

• Wednesday, April 5, 2 to 4 p.m., Henrico West Health Department, 8600 Dixon Powers Dr., Primary Moderna shots for age 6 months to 5 years old and bivalent boosters for age 6 years and older, Primary Pfizer shots for age 6 months and older, bivalent boosters for age 5 years and older, Novavax primary shots for age 12 and older, and boosters for age 18 and older, JYNNEOS shots and baby bivalent boosters. Walk-ups welcome but appointments encouraged.

Thursday, April 6, 2 to 4 p.m. - Cary Street, 400 E. Cary St., Primary Moderna shots for age 6 months to 5 years old and bivalent boosters for age 6 years and older, Primary Pfizer shots for age 6 months and older, bivalent boosters for age 5 years and older, Novavax primary shots for age 12 and older, and boosters for age 18 and older, JYNNEOS shots and baby bivalent boosters, walk-ups welcome but appointments encouraged.

People can schedule an appointment online at vase.vdh. virginia.gov, vaccinate.virginia.gov or vax.rchd.com, or by calling (804) 205-3501 or (877) VAX-IN-VA (1-877-829-4682).

Compiled by George Copeland Jr.

teen and an artistic young man,” his funeral program said. He was also a high-achieving high school athlete who earned an athletic scholarship to attend college.

He was pursuing a goal of building a music career, streaming his music under the moniker “Young Vo” while working toward starting his own record label, his family has said.

Wednesday’s service was attended by hundreds of mourners that included friends, family, clergy members and representatives from the office of Gov. Glenn Youngkin. An interment was scheduled immediately following the service.

Mr. Otieno’s family and their attorneys have said he was experiencing mental distress at the time of his initial encounter with law enforcement earlier this month, days before he was taken to the state hospital. He was first taken into custody March 3, when he was transported to a local hospital for mental health treatment under an emergency custody order.

Police have said that while at the local hospital, he “became physically assaultive toward officers,” at which point they arrested him and took him to a local jail, something Mr. Otieno’s family says should never have happened given that he was in need of treatment. On the afternoon of March 6, he was transferred to the state hospital, which has a unit that provides care for people admitted from jails or by court-order.

Attorneys for the defendants charged in his death have said their clients were trying to restrain Mr. Otieno. During bond hearings and in statements, several defense attorneys have sought to distinguish their clients from the mass of bodies involved in pinning Mr. Otieno to the floor. All have been granted bond and have pre-trial hearings in April or May.

Attorneys for Mr. Otieno’s family have pushed back at those characterizations and did so again Wednesday.

“They engage in the intellectual justification of discrimination,” said civil rights attorney Ben Crump.

Mr. Crump, Rev. Sharpton and another family attorney, Mark Krudys, called for more robust mental health care services and more training for law enforcement for mental health-related situations. They also said Virginia should consider creating mental health-specific courts under a system like California’s.

Caroline Ouko, Mr. Otieno’s mother, said she never could have imagined what would unfold after her son was first taken to the local hospital for care.

“We will miss you dearly. But rest assured, as you fly in heaven with your God, you are not here physically with us. But we who remain, your family, your friends and my team beside me, we will get to the bottom of what happened to you,” she said, followed by applause.

Bagby wins Virginia Senate special election

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the House, will officially take over Jennifer L. McClellan’s seat in the General Assembly’s 40-member upper chamber.

Rep. McClellan left the Senate after winning an earlier election to fill the 4th Congressional District seat left vacant by the November 2022 death of A. Donald McEachin and is now representing the Richmond area in Congress. The win allows Delegate Bagby to serve out the final year of her term.

Delegate Bagby, who was home with celebrating with

family and friends as the results came in, told the Free Press, “I am grateful for the outpouring of support, and I pledge to continue to fight as hard in the state Senate for the people of this district as I have as a delegate.”

Set to be in place when the General Assembly reconvenes Wednesday, April 12, to deal with Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin’s amendments to and vetoes of already approved legislation, Delegate Bagby, who will continue to chair the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, said he will be ready for whatever comes.

Randall Robinson reshaped American’s foreign policy

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for reparations for Black Americans, while also being a sharp critic of the Black community’s dismal record in addressing the crime and poverty in its midst.

Still an unsung hero in his hometown, Mr. Robinson’s instrumental role reshaping American’s foreign policy is being remembered following his death in St. Kitts, a independent Caribbean island east of Puerto Rico, where he had made his home since 2001.

Mr. Robinson died Friday, March 24, 2023, of pneumonia, according to Hazel Ross-Robinson, his second wife and a native of the island. He was 81.

Former Richmond City Councilman Sa’ad El-Amin lauded his old friend for helping to dispel American myths about Africa and raise the awareness of Americans, particularly Black Americans, about the Motherland.

“He was a key architect in promoting a positive understanding,” Mr. El-Amin said, that boosted Black interest in visiting the continent.

Janine Y. Bell, founder and artistic director of the Richmond-based Elegba Folklore Society that highlights the links between Africa and America, said that Mr. Robinson enabled Americans to understand “the crucial importance of the African continent” as the birthplace of humanity and increased understanding of the influence and contributions that the African disapora has had on the West.

Mr. Robinson was one four children of two teachers, Armstrong High School coaching legend Maxie C. Robinson and Doris Robinson Griffin. His late brother, Max Robinson, became the first Black news anchor for a national broadcast network.

One of his sisters, Jewell Robinson Sheppard, is an award-winning actress, and the other, the Rev. Jean Robinson-Casey, pastors a church in Reston.

Mr. Robinson followed a winding road to his influential role in American policy after graduating from Armstrong. He first earned a basketball scholarship to Norfolk State University, but had to leave in 1959 after being drafted into the U.S. Army.

Returning to Richmond, he completed his undergraduate studies at Virginia Union University. A top scholar, he went on to

earn a law degree at Harvard University in 1970 and began his connection with Africa after he spent six months in Tanzania on a Ford Foundation fellowship before graduation. He started out as a legal aid lawyer in Boston, ran a community service center for several years, then started working on African policy after he moved to Washington to work for two founders of the Congressional Black Caucus, U.S. Rep. William L. Clay Sr. of Missouri and U.S. Rep. Charles C. Diggs Jr. of Michigan.

Along with organizing the first forum on Africa for the CBC, Mr. Robinson arranged for a congressional delegate to visit Africa, including a stop in South Africa that proved life-changing.

“I remember being so, so angry,” Mr. Robinson recalled after facing signs barring him from using airport bathrooms because of his skin color. “The scab had been pulled off an old wound. But this was not only a segregated state, it was a police state.”

After returning to Washington, Mr. Robinson, with the support of Rep. Diggs, launched TransAfrica as a lobbying and policy operation and used it as a platform to initially challenge President Ford’s policy of tolerance toward white dictators and autocrats.

Seeking to build support, Mr. Robinson launched a research and policy arm to expand arm of TransAfrica.

“You don’t change policy under the presumption that you must have a majority opinion on your side,” he once told a reporter. “In the final analysis, you need to organize a critical mass of people, which is not necessarily the majority of the Black community.”

In 1984, Mr. Robinson launched the Free South Africa Movement to mobilize groups and individuals opposed to South Africa’s apartheid and in December of that year began holding protests in front of the South African Embassy, despite courting arrest by Washington. police for trespassing. Undeterred, he told supporters, “We will be here in the cold. We will be here in the snow. We will be here in the sleet and rain, day in, day out, week in, week out, month after month. We will not leave until our demands are met.” The movement’s demands included the release of

Mr. Mandela, an anti-apartheid leader who had been imprisoned more than 20 years earlier, and other changes to create a more open society there.

By 1986, the movement had created enough pressure to enable the U.S. Senate to pass the Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 over then President Reagan’s veto, forcing the government to imposed crippling sanctions on South Africa that ultimately led to Mr. Mandela’s release in 1990 and his 1964 election as the first Black president of that country.

In 1994, Mr. Robinson undertook the hunger strike in a bid to force President Clinton to end the policy of stopping boats full of Haitian refugees and returning them. President Clinton never acknowledged Mr. Robinson’s role, but changed the policy. Mr. Robinson later authored “An Unbroken Agony” on his ordeal and the Haitian experience.

As TransAfrica’s leader, he also focused on policy changes for Ethiopia, Kenya, the Congo and Malawi.

He amplified the reparations debate in 2000 with his book, “The Debt: What America Owes to Blacks,” and followed that with “Reckoning: What Blacks Owe Each Other” that focused on crime, poverty and the prison system, and urged Black Americans to focus on social and economic success.

In 2001, declaring America to be “a huge fraud, clad in narcissistic conceit … and feeling unneeded of any self-examination or responsibility to right past wrongs of which it notices none,” he left TransAfrica and moved with his wife to St. Kitts. The organization, chaired by actor Danny Glover, continues its advocacy work.

In 2004, he wrote about his self-imposed exile in “Quitting America: The Departure of a Black Man from His Native Land.” He also is the author of “Defending the Spirit: A Black Life in America” and two works of fiction, “The Emancipation of Wakefield Clay: A Novel,” and his most recent, “Makeda.” While he mostly stayed out of the country, he taught at Penn State University’s law school since 2008.

Survivors include his three children, Khalea Ross Robinson, Anike Robinson and Jabari Robinson, along with his wife and two sisters.

Hickory Hill community opposes planned fire training facility

Continued from A1

of the community center at 3000 E. Belt Boulevard.

On March 9, the Urban Design Committee, which is charged with reviewing the design, character and location of proposed public buildings and providing recommendations, voted 7-2 to recommend that the Planning Commission turn down and direct the city to find another location.

Arborist Eva Clarke was among the committee members who could not understand why the Stoney administration wanted to wipe out green space in a relatively poor section of the city where parks are scarce and which ranks at the top of Virginia’s list of places where chronic asthma is epidemic and other diseases rife.

Eighth District City Councilwoman Reva M. Trammell expressed disappointment at the vote. She has been a gung-ho supporter — despite being aware her constituents in the area are opposed.

“Our city staff has done due diligence to ensure that Hickory Hill is the best location for the fire training facility,” Ms. Trammell

stated in a response to a Free Press query that was crafted on her behalf. “Based on all data, the surrounding community and green space will not be harmed by having the training facility co-exist” with the community center. Assistant Fire Chief Travis Ford told the UDC that the department would not use polluting chemicals or foam and would not even use real flames in the facility.

However, every civic association in neighborhoods that border or are located near Hickory Hill have passed resolutions urging rejection on the grounds that the facility would take over much needed green space. They have united under the banner of the Southside Joint Civic Association to promote their opposition.

Along with the civic groups, longtime residents are urging rejection as well.

Among them is Mechelle EsparzaHarris, who has turned her family’s property that sits across railroad tracks and a creek from Hickory Hill into the Serene Wildlife Sanctuary, primarily for birds.

Lenora McQueen, who has lived in the Bellemeade area for 53 years, also

urged rejection.

“The (Hickory Hill) center is a convenient for community meetings, after-school summer programs, physical exercise, recreation and social interaction,” Ms. McQueen wrote.

“South Side already deals with heat islands, noise levels and pollution because of the industrial businesses located nearby. There are already too few green spaces in our South Richmond communities, especially in marginalized neighborhoods, and building a training facility does nothing to protect our green spaces the and the health of our residents.”

The Rev. Monica Esparza, a sister of Ms. Esparza-Harris whose ministry focuses on land stewardship and conservation, said Hickory Hill is the only major green space in this section of the city.

The mayor “would not consider taking a piece of Byrd Park for this kind of facility,” she said. “It is far easier to take a slice of green space from an area where residents are regarded as powerless. The mayor’s slogan may be ‘One city, our city,’ but actions speak louder than words when it comes to fulfilling that theme.”

The battle for parental rights and government oversight remains alive

By Natasha Sokoloff

parents involved in looking at school library materials or being involved in their kid’s education,” Sen. Peake said.

Huguenot

High School’s

library functions as a type of escape from the pressures of student life, a place where students can come and “chill out,” as librarian Kevin Murray puts it. He doesn’t give out grades or assign homework, so it makes sense why so many students like spending their time there, a serene space away from the bustling halls of high school.

But underneath the familiar silence that envelops all libraries, a war rages over the books that are allowed to be placed on the shelves. Public schools across the nation have become a focus on the debates surrounding parent and government involvement in students’ education, from picking novels to the curriculum taught in classrooms.

The culture wars reached Virginia’s divided General Assembly during this election-year session. Republicans introduced legislation aimed at increasing parental involvement in public schools through cataloging and flagging books in libraries; increasing parental permission requirements; allowing parents to restrict their child’s access to certain books; and parental review of public schools curriculum.

Most of the parental rights bills passed the Republican-controlled House but then failed along party lines Feb. 16 in the Senate’s Education and Health Committee, where Democrats are in the majority. The actions center on HB1507, HB1803 and HB1448 that intended to increase parental involvement in curriculum. And although these bills may have been killed, the polarizing battle for parental rights and government oversight remains alive. Mixed sentiments among parents, teachers, librarians, politicians and experts seem to indicate that it’s not going away anytime soon.

The battles in Virginia are a reflection of tensions nationwide, perhaps most notably in Florida, where the Parental Rights in Education Act, commonly known as the Don’t Say Gay act, was passed in 2022. Under the law, classroom discussion and instruction in public schools about sexual orientation or gender identity is prohibited from kindergarten to third grade. Discourse over banning books isn’t new to school boards across the nation, but they’ve increased in the context of the debate over parental rights.

“You know, back in the old days, when I was younger, with parents there was kind of like this blind faith,” Mr. Murray said. “Of ‘OK, go to school, learn this, learn this.’ There weren’t that many questions asked as to what you’re being taught.”

Patrick Miller, president of the Henrico Education Association and an English teacher at Highland Springs High School, said he believed educators in the county saw parents as equal partners in their children’s education. To Mr. Miller, too much parental involvement can signal a lack of trust in teachers.

“While any parent should have the right to ask specifically what their kid is reading or learning in school, I would appreciate trust from parents when it comes to my professional judgment, having studied for a master’s degree in teaching literature and writing and reading strategies to students,” he said.

In his decade of working for Henrico County Public Schools, Mr. Miller said he had never known a book to be outright banned. However, as far as challenges to curriculum and challenges to books, he said he has seen that all over, not just concentrated in one location.

“A lot of times, communities have different points of view on how they handle things, from southwest Virginia to the Tidewater area,” said Shane Riddle, the Virginia Education Association’s

government relations and research director. “That’s why school board members are elected – to represent not only the parents but all community members.”

Richmond School Board member Jonathan Young said he fully supported the parental rights bills and believes that though schools have been better at emphasizing the central role of parents, they are still too infrequently prioritized.

“I really truly wish more parents in K-12 across this country would invest the kind of labor and time to scrutinize what their students are learning,” he said.

And school board members have a duty to consider families’ wishes and needs, Mr. Young said.

“The families have made a conscious decision to entrust us as a school district with protecting and educating the most important thing in the world to them: their children,” he said.

Although he does not think that trust in teachers and pushing for parental involvement in curriculum are mutually exclusive, Mr. Young said that what parents are seeking for their children is the most important consideration.

“You have to meet the customer where they’re at,” he said.

As a father of three school-age daughters, Mr. Murray, the Huguenot High librarian in South Richmond, has his opinion on how involved he should be in their education.

“Of course, yes, parents should have a say,” he said. “And that’s why there’s school board meetings, and that’s why there’s PTAs.” Parents have always talked with teachers and principals, he said, so in that sense a feedback system has always been in place.

However, excessive oversight will eventually be damaging to students, he said.

“Gotta leave it to the experts,” Mr. Murray said. “A lot of parents are not educational experts. A lot of people in school boards are not either.”

Sen. Mark Peake, R-Lynchburg, who voted in favor of three parental rights bills regarding curriculum, said he wasn’t surprised that they failed – he thought the bills wouldn’t get past the subcommittee level.

“The Democrats don’t seem to be that excited about having

Mr. Miller said most teachers have parents sign the syllabus at the beginning of the year, and they can read the curriculum on it.

“But, I mean, if somebody wants to come in and catalog all of the books in my classroom library, they can be my guest,” he said. “That’s quite a lot of work that I wouldn’t be getting paid for.”

One Republican-authored bill would require the Department of Education to make recommendations on adopting model policies for the selection and removal of public school library materials, “in consultation with local school boards, public school librarians, parents of public school students, and other interested stakeholders.”

Del. Timothy Anderson, R-Virginia Beach, introduced HB1379, which would have required librarians to identify books with graphic sexual content and put them in an online compilation for parents to know that they’re there, and then give parents the right to opt-out.

“If I’m a parent, I should have the right to exclude my child from having access to these books,” Mr. Anderson said during the Feb. 15 committee hearing.

Speakers from conservative religious lobby groups such as Pro-Family Women, based in Arlington, and the Family Foundation, headquartered in Richmond, expressed their support for the legislation during the committee hearing.

Susan Muskett, president of Pro-Family Women, called it the bare minimum.

“It’s not banning the book,” said Todd Gathje on behalf of the Family Foundation. “It’s just simply saying, ‘Let’s create a list of graphic sexual material that any reasonable-minded parent would not want their child to have at any level of school.’”

Speakers on the other side, however, viewed it as redundant to the policies already in place.

“Librarians regularly partner with parents,” Nathan Sekinger, president of the Virginia Association of School Librarians and librarian at T. Benton Gayle Middle School in Fredericksburg, told the committee. If a parent’s concern requires more than a conversation, then they can challenge a book using the school board’s approved process, he said.

Virginia school boards already have the authority to make these decisions, and to ensure parental notification and review of any instructional material that includes sexually explicit content, according to a law passed last year. In addition, school divisions have publicly available websites that show every book or material in its library, Mr. Sekinger said.

Since Mr. Murray started his position as the high school librarian in 2017, he has never been challenged on any of the books the library makes available.

“I’ve been lucky,” he said.

Mr. Murray said he opposes banning books, but believes there are some titles inappropriate for children.

“Because every high school kid, even though they’re roughly the same age, they’re not the same maturity level,” he said. “So some kid who’s 16 can handle or understand a book dealing with sexuality, or dealing with violence in a manner that’s more like an adult, and some kids who are 17,18 won’t be able to handle it that well.”

The selection of books for a school system is decided based on a variety of factors, from selections of vendors and publishers to student recommendations, Mr. Murray said. But the question of who determines if a book is appropriate can lead down a slippery slope, he said.

Arthur Ashe

Associated Press file photo

Amanda Darrow, director of youth, family and education programs at the Utah Pride Center, poses with books that have been the subject of complaints from parents in Salt Lake City on Dec. 16, 2021. The wave of attempted book banning and restrictions continues to intensify.

Youngkin spites restoration of voting rights

The roughly 1,000 people a month released from Virginia prisons are no longer having their voting rights restored almost automatically.

Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin has reversed the state process that restored without any paperwork the right of former inmates to again cast ballots, serve on juries and run for office.

That policy began revving up 10 years ago under a Republican predecessor, Robert F. McDonnell, and had been expanded under two Democratic governors, Terry McAuliffe and Ralph S. Northam.

Despite insisting that he believes in second chances, Gov. Youngkin has returned to the practice of requiring felons to apply individually for restoration which he has the sole power to grant.

The governor’s decision became public last week in a response that Secretary of the Commonwealth Kay Coles James provided to a query from Chesapeake state Sen. Lionel Spruill Sr., chair of the Senate Privileges and Elections Committee.

Sen. Spruill sought the information after receiving concerns from a Northern Virginia senator, Scott Surovell, that the policy of automatic restoration of rights had been scrapped.

The Richmond Crusade for Voters is among those speaking out against the policy change.

In a statement issued this week, the city’s oldest and largest African-American political group argued that the policy change flouts Gov. Youngkin’s portrayal of himself “as a good Christian man”. … God is the model of grace. So wouldn’t you think the governor would want to follow that model and grant that same grace and remove the barriers to full citizenship?”

In the statement, the Crusade noted that the governor has set “no criteria by which” applicants can know whether they will be eligible for restoration, returning to a haphazard system that existed before Gov. McDonnell.

The Crusade also stated that Gov. Youngkin’s action restores Virginia as the only state besides Kentucky that does not grant “full voter rights to ex-offenders” upon their release. “Surely we can do better.”

The General Assembly never assured the policy would continue no matter who was governor, with Republican members generally rejecting proposals for state constitutional amendments that would do so.

Gov. McDonnell’s initiative largely impacted non-violent offenders, whose rights were automatically restored if they had paid off their court debts and completed any probation or parole obligations.

Among the thousands Gov. McDonnell restored to full citizenship is current Portsmouth Delegate Don L. Scott Jr., the House minority leader, who served time for a federal drug conviction in the 1990s. Delegate Scott went on to earn a law degree and win election to the General Assembly as a result of the McDonnell initiative.

Gov. McDonnell’s successor, Terry McAuliffe, expanded the initiative to all offenders and ended the practice of requiring court debts to first be paid, restoring the rights of 173,000 people before leaving office.

His successor, Gov. Ralph S. Northam, scrapped any condition in restoring the rights of 124,000 people during his four-year term.

During the first three months after taking office in January 2022 when Gov. Northam’s approach remained intact, Gov. Youngkin restored the rights of 3,500 people, according to his administration’s report.

Gov. Youngkin changed the policy in May 2022, and rights restorations fell to just 800 between May and October and have continued to remain low since then — though he made it seem as if he was still behind his predecessor’s policy in issuing a press release just before the November 2022 election touting the more than 4,000 restorations he had accomplished since taking office.

A Black woman’s unequal cost of protesting

The 45th president is in the news again, facing indictments in New York and Georgia for criminal behavior regarding illegally paying a porn star (New York) and election tampering (Georgia).

While Donald Trump has not been indicted, he already has wallowed in his victimhood, describing the legal proceedings as “political” and biased.

Mr. Trump’s attorneys have attempted to slow the process in Georgia by lobbing accusations against Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who happens to be a Black woman. She is biased, they say, incapable of prosecuting. As usual, the 45th president and his ilk have it all wrong. And as he has done for the past 50 years, the Orange Man attempts to wiggle out of his legal challenges.

The former president has attempted to rally his troops, just as he did on Jan. 6, 2021. Fewer may be inclined to take it to the streets, given that about a thousand insurrectionists have been charged for disorderly and disruptive conduct and more. The average sentence for these miscreants was 16 months, but so far, at least five have been sentenced to more than seven years. Some were found not guilty, and many received minor

sentences.

Contrast the treatment of traitorous criminals with the treatment of Brittany Martin, a South Carolina woman who participated in a May 2020 protest against police brutality and the murder of George Floyd. She was vocal with a police

Julianne Malveaux

officer, shouting “no justice, no peace,” and, allegedly, “I’m willing to die for the Black, are you willing to die for the Blue? This is just a job for you; this is my life.”

Ms. Martin’s comments were perceived as “threats” (she had no weapon), and she was charged with aggravated breach of peace, instigating a riot, and five counts of threatening police officers. She was grossly overcharged for her verbal reaction to police violence and was sentenced, in May 2022, to four years in jail. Appeals to shorten her sentence were unsuccessful, and there is evidence that she was brutally treated in jail. She was disciplined because she refused to cut her dreadlocks for religious reasons.

Ms. Martin got a sentence of four years for yelling at a police officer. Most insurrectionists on Jan. 6, 2021, got less than a year and a half. If everyone who shouted “no justice, no peace” at a rally were sent to jail, the jails would overflow. Why was she electively prosecuted?

Ms. Martin was harshly treated and given an unfairly lengthy sentence because she was a Black woman who chose to stand up for her rights, including her right to protest. Perhaps the judge in the case decided to make an example of her. But as the former president attempts to get the misguided morons who support him out to protest, I am reminded of the unequal ways “justice” (or should we call it just-us) is meted out. Rabid white men assaulted Capitol police officers. Many escaped judgment. Others received a slap on the wrist. A Black woman fighting for Black people gets an unreasonably long sentence, and her pregnancy is imperiled. She gave birth in November 2022 while incarcerated, receiving neither justice nor mercy.

Ms. Martin has given birth to seven children, losing one to SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and another to gun violence. Before her latest birth, there were four surviving children, and now five children are missing their mother, including an infant who has had no time to bond with her. South Carolina incarcerated a mother for four long years for yelling at a police officer. Federal courts are sentencing insurrectionists to much less time. In some ways, comparing federal courts to state ones is like comparing apples to oranges. Still, the contrast between Ms. Martin’s sentence and those who have done far

Conservative groups don’t speak for all moms

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, I’ve been thinking about moms and honoring motherhood. I’ve written before about how my mom instilled values in me, including respect for everyone’s rights – not just my own. Mom also worked multiple jobs to support our family through some very hard times. She represents my ideal of what a mother should be, without a doubt.

And maybe she would represent yours too, or my neighbor’s. I certainly think so – but the truth is I can’t say for sure, and I can’t insist on it.

Unfortunately, that is exactly what some on the right are trying to do by claiming to speak for all mothers and even all parents. This effort to steal the moral authority of motherhood only for themselves is wrong, and it has to be stopped.

The far right group Moms for Liberty is a marquee example with an especially insidious name. The group is behind book banning efforts in numerous states. Its main targets are books and materials that address race, racism, and gender and gender identity issues. It supports a bill that is coming to the floor of the U.S. House as I write

this, called the Parents’ Bill of Rights.

This House bill would more accurately be called a bill of rights for some parents. Moms – and dads, like myself – who oppose the bill see it for what it is: A vehicle that opens the door to more book censorship and book bans, not to mention

Svante Myrick

bullying and discrimination. Instead of creating a school environment where children thrive and all parents are treated as partners, this bill prevents students from learning and teachers from teaching. In fact, supporters of the bill rejected amendments to fund Statewide Family Engagement Centers and to designate a parent coordinator at every school.

Fortunately, the bill has little chance of passage in the Senate. But it mirrors “parental rights bills” that are passing in several states. Moms for Liberty is often behind these efforts. Of course, this “pro-liberty” group actually is infringing on your liberty – specifically, what political scientists call your “negative liberty” or your right to pursue your interests free from interference from others.

But interference with your choices is what Moms for Liberty is all about. They and similar groups want to decide

what is right not just for their kids, but for your kids, too. The rights of moms, and all parents, with a different view do not enter into the equation.

Far right groups such as Moms for Liberty are wellfunded, well-connected and well-organized. They have a head start. There is an urgent need to push back against the wave of censorship and repression that they have set in motion. I feel especially strongly about this as a Black parent, because so much of the censorship is aimed at Black history and studies. The list of states that have either banned the AP AfricanAmerican studies course or put it on the back burner for “review” is up to six, and growing.

For those who want to be part of the fight for inclusive education and against censorship, the American Library Association’s Unite Against Book Bans campaign website is a good place to start. It includes up to date information and a toolkit. Attending school board meetings and speaking out are also really important.

As I said, I can think of no better role model, moral guide and inspiration than my mom. But I will always respect your right to feel the same way about yours. Groups like Moms for Liberty just won’t.

The writer is president of People For the American Way.

The Free Press welcomes letters

The Richmond Free Press respects the opinions of its readers. We want to hear from you. We invite you to write the editor. All letters will be considered for publication. Concise, typewritten letters related to public matters are preferred. Also include your telephone number(s). Letters should be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, Richmond Free Press, P.O. Box 27709, 422 East Franklin Street, Richmond, VA 23261, or faxed to: (804) 643-7519 or e-mail: letters@richmondfreepress.com.

worse is instructive.

Donald Trump may or may not get indicted or convicted, and he may or may not be forced to don a jumpsuit the same color as his hair used to be. But those of us who watch the so-called justice system are almost certain that he’ll get a break, just like his supporters, the Jan. 6 insurrectionists are getting.

Yelling is not the same as breaking into a federal building, assaulting Capitol police officers, breaking windows, and busting into Speaker Pelosi’s office. The insurrectionists excuse their lawlessness by leaning on “free speech” rights. Where are the rights of Brittany Martin and the other fearless freedom fighters treated shabbily by the courts?

The writer is an economist, author, and dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State LA.

Regina H. Boone reginaboone@richmondfreepress.com James Haskins, Rudolph Powell and Clinton A. Strane Vice President – Administration Tracey L. Oliver traceyoliver@richmondfreepress.com

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WASHINGTON

When Richmond area voters elected former Virginia State Sen. Jennifer McClellan to Congress last month, the new federal responsibilities for the veteran state lawmaker were already on the agenda for the seasoned politician.

“The main challenge she faces is being underestimated,” said Sonya Ross, a retired reporter and race and ethnicity editor on Capitol Hill for the Associated Press and currently managing editor of Inside Climate News.

“The structures are the same.”

“Still, Rep. McClellan will have to ‘outdo success’ in order to be considered successful,” said Ms. Ross, likening Rep. McClellan to Vice President Kamala Harris and House predecessors such as Maxine Waters of California and Shelia Jackson Lee of Texas.

Known as an “old boys club” for decades, that diminishing image of the once largely male population of law and policy makers on Capitol Hill in the House and Senate still lingers, Ms. Ross said. Vice President Harris came to the job (in the Senate and White House) as a seasoned

Jennifer McClellan’s leadership skills in Virginia will be critical in Washington

politician, yet media pundits and political operatives questioned her expertise, Ms. Ross said. In her own environment, Rep. McClellan faces the same hurdles in the very contentious 435-member House.

Rep. McClellan is a valuable vote for the Democrats.

The slim margin for control of the House makes even a vote of one or two a crucial difference. “The old trick of controlling votes is delicate,” Ms. Ross said. Rep. McClel-

lan’s leadership skills in the Virginia legislature may go a long way in helping her achieve success here in Washington.

Atop Rep. McClellan’s list early this month was a bipartisan appearance with fellow Democrats and Republicans from Virginia making a pitch to the General Services Administration, the federal government’s realtor, to choose Springfield, Virginia, from the sites under consideration, for construction of a new national headquarters for the government’s Federal Bureau of Investigation, known as the FBI.

Today, the FBI is located here, in the heart of the nation’s capitol, a few blocks from the White House, Capitol Hill and the U.S. Supreme Court. All are in the area known as the National Mall, known

for the Smithsonian Museum buildings and a variety of related historical museums and monuments.

Taxpayers would spend several hundred million dollars to construct the new FBI building. It would also generate thousands of construction jobs and create employment opportunities.

Virginia is in a scramble with Maryland, as both states have sent their top politicians to make their respective cases for selection. With a competition as stiff in this month’s final rivalry between the nation’s colleges for rank as the top college for basketball athletics, Rep. McClellan is being called upon by fellow Virginia politicians on the home stretch to draw upon her legislative experience in making deals and negotiating, say observers.

Helping win the FBI headquarters move would also help solidify Rep. McClellan’s newest employment credentials should she decide to run in the next term for Virginia governor.

For now, she helps Democrats walk a fragile tight rope of political power in the U.S. House of Representatives, as Republicans lead the chamber by a slim two votes.

That majority includes George Santos, the rookie Republican from New York whose touted résumé helped win the election last fall. In the end, his resume was

Learn About the Future of Transportation in the Richmond Region

full of falsehoods that have prompted fellow Republicans in New York to urge him to resign. Another rookie, Rep. Andy Ogles, a Tennessee Republican, has also come under fire for embellishing the facts in his résumé. Both new national politicians had aggressively embraced and supported former President

Donald Trump. The added troubles for the Republican House leadership, complicate the party’s efforts to control the already unruly House.

Rep. McClellan has been appointed to the House Armed Services Committee and is taking on daily calls from her constituents for help on a va-

riety of topics with which she can advocate as the member of Congress in Washington from Richmond.

Reginald Stuart was a daily newspaper reporter for 23 years at The New York Times, and he worked for more than two decades as a news talent scout for Knight Ridder Newspapers.

Please take notice that the School Board of the City of Richmond will conduct public hearings to receive public comment on the renaming of Ginter Park Elementary School, John B. Cary Elementary School, Binford Middle School, and George Wythe High School.

A public hearing will convene at Ginter Park Elementary School, 3817 Chamberlayne Ave, Richmond, VA 23227, on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 from 6pm to 7pm.

A public hearing will convene at Ginter Park Elementary School, 3817 Chamberlayne Ave, Richmond, VA 23227, on Thursday, April 13, 2023 from 6pm to 7pm.

A public hearing will convene at John B. Cary Elementary School, 3021 Maplewood Ave, Richmond, VA 23221, on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 from 6pm to 7pm.

A public hearing will convene at Binford Middle School, 1701 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23220, on Monday, April 24, 2023 from 6pm to 7pm.

A public hearing will convene at George Wythe High School, 4314 Crutchfield St, Richmond, VA 23225, on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 from 6pm to 7pm.

For information regarding the Public Hearings, please contact Dr. Shadae Harris, Chief Engagement Officer, at 780-7845.

Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in this proceeding should contact the Clerk of the School Board no later than three (3) business days prior to the meeting at (804) 780-7716 or prichard@rvaschools.net. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the agency by calling the Americans with Disabilities Act Office TTY Relay Center at 711.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 2023 FIVE-YEAR CONSOLIDATED PLAN, 2023 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN, AND ANALYSIS OF IMPEDIMENTS TO FAIR HOUSING

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is undertaking a Five (5) Year Consolidated Planning process to determine Housing and Community Development needs and the best use of resources to address those needs across the commonwealth.

The planning process will also result in the development of an Annual Action Plan which will outline the prioritized needs and the use of available resources analysis of impediments to fair housing. The anticipated federal housing and community development resources include the Community Development Block

Catherine.Farnsler@dhcd.virginia.gov.

Any person with a disability requiring special accommodations to attend the effort will be made to provide reasonable accommodations.

To see what opportunities are available, please refer to our website at www.richmondgov.com. EOE M/F/D/V

Reginald Stuart

Stories by Fred Jeter

Can’t stop dancing NCAA’s Final

Something missing here? For the first time since the NCAA basketball tournament began in 1939, there are zero No. 1 seeds remaining in the Final Four.

In fact, none of the projected top guns made it as far as the Elite Eight.

Here’s how the leading lights went dark on the bracket sheet.

• Alabama was rolled by San Diego.

• Houston’s last rodeo was a loss to Miami.

Florida Atlantic Owls

Location: Boca Raton, Fla.

Conference: Conference USA (will move to American Athletic next season)

Record: 35-3

Coach: Dusty May, fifth season

NCAA championships: none (FAU did not compete in basketball until 1988 and wasn’t Division 1 until ’93)

Road to Houston: NCAA wins over Memphis 66-65, Fairleigh-Dickinson 78-70, Tennessee 62-55, Kansas State 79-76.

Players to watch: Johnell Davis (13.9 scoring average); Alijah Martin (13.1); 7-foot-1 Russian Vladislav Goldin (10.3)

Fun Fact: An Owls’ assistant coach is Drew Williamson, a former assistant under Lonnie Blow at Virginia State; Williamson starred as a player at Old Dominion.

San Diego State Aztecs

Location: San Diego (with about 37,000 students and 300,000 alumni)

Record: 31-6

Coach: Brian Dutcher, sixth season

Conference: Western Athletic

NCAA championships: none

Road to Houston: NCAA wins over Charleston 63-57, Furman 75-52, Alabama 71-64 and Creighton 57-56.

Players to watch: Matt Bradley (12.5), Darrion Trammell (9.9), 6-10 Nate Mensah (62 blocked shots, from Ghana).

Fun fact: San Diego is alma mater of Tony Gwynn, best known for baseball. However, Gwynn played basketball, too, for the Aztecs, setting several records for assists and earning All-Conference honors.

Four

• Kansas got oinked by Arkansas Razorbacks.

• Purdue speared by Fairleigh-Dickinson’s hyphen. Furthermore, none of last year’s Final Foursome (bluebloods Kansas, North Carolina, Duke, Villanova) are back for an encore.

Meanwhile, the guitarists, organists and drummers continue to make music as the Big Dance shifts stages to Houston. Here’s a look at the last four kicking up their heels in the annual 68-team single elimination hoops gig.

Justices’ court rulings continue JM’s Dennis Parker Jr. named Player of the Year

In what may be an unprecedented achievement, all five of John Marshall High’s starters were named to the Class 2, All-State first team.

JM’s Dennis Parker Jr. was named Player of the Year and Justices’ Ty White was selected Coach of the Year in a vote conducted by the Virginia High School League.

Joining Parker on the first team was senior Jason Rivera, juniors Damon Thompson and Dominique Bailey and freshman Latrell Allmond.

The Justices, who went 28-0 in winning their second straight State title, will head to Atlanta to compete in The Throne National Tournament, a 16-team single elimination event at Morehouse College.

JM’s first game will be March 29 against Douglasville, Ga. The tournament runs through April 2. Parker, who has signed with North Carolina State, led the Justices this season with a 19.9 scoring average. He is followed in the scoring column by Rivera (15.4),Thompson (14.6) Allmond (14.2) and Bailey (9.0).

John Marshall’s girls weren’t left off the honor role, either. Senior Jaedyn Cook, who helped the Lady Justices to a 20-7 record and State semifinals, was named All-State first team. The 6-foot-2 forward will continue to play basketball at East Carolina.

Where: NRG Stadium, Houston Semifinals

Saturday, April 1, 6:09 p.m. - Florida Atlantic vs. San Diego State;

8:49 p.m. - Connecticut vs. Miami

Finals

Monday, April 3, 9 p.m.

TV: CBS (Announcers Jim Nantz, Bill Rafferty, Grant Hill, Tracy Wolfson)

Radio: Westwood One

Connecticut Huskies

Location: Storrs, Conn.

Conference: Big East

Record: 29-8

Coach: Dan Hurley, fifth season

NCAA championships; 1999, 2004, 2011 and 2014

Road to Houston: NCAA wins over Iona 87-63, St. Mary’s 70-55, Arkansas 88-65 and Gonzaga 82-54.

Players to watch: 6-9 Adama Sanogo (17.1, from Mali); Jordan Hawkins (16.3), Tristan Newton (171

assists)

Fun Fact: UConn has sent some 38 players to the NBA, including 13 lottery picks. The only retired jersey number is Ray Allen’s No. 34.

Miami Hurricanes

Location: Coral Gables, Fla.

Record: 29-7

Coach: Jim Larranaga, 12th season (guided George Mason to 2006 Final Four)

Road to Houston: NCAA wins over Drake 63-56, Indiana 85-69, Houston 89-75 and Texas 88-81.

Players to watch: Jordan Miller scored 27 points in Region final vs. Texas, hitting all seven field goal tries and all 13 free throws; Norchad Omier, from Nicaragua, averages 13.3 and Isaiah Wong 16.3.

Fun Fact: NBA great Rick Barry played at Miami 1962’65 and led NCAA in scoring in ’65, 37.4 points per game. Miami was independent at the time and on probation. Palm trees: It is fitting that Palm Sunday this year falls on April 2. Three of the four finalists (Miami, Florida Atlantic, San Diego) hail from palm tree locations.

Joe Taylor adds Hampton to his HOF honors

The name Joe Taylor is synonymous with Hall of Fame. Taylor will be inducted into the Hampton University Hall of Fame on March 29 in Hampton.

Currently the Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and Community Awareness at Virginia Union, the Washington D.C. native will soon be a member of seven Hall of Fames. They include Western Illinois, Virginia Union, CIAA, MEAC, Black Colleges Association and National Football Foundation Hall of Fames.

NBA legend Willis Reed dies at age 80

He led the Knicks to titles in 1970 and 1973

Willis Reed, who belongs in any conversation about the greatest HBCU basketball players of all time, died Tuesday, March 21, 2023, of heart failure. The Grambling State and New York Knicks legend was 80.

Nicknamed “The Captain,” Mr. Reed was the undersized center and emotional leader on the Knicks’ two NBA championship teams, with a soft shooting touch and a toughness to tussle with the era’s superstar big men on the inside.

He was remembered perhaps more for the manner he led the Knicks than how superbly he played for them.

“Willis Reed was the ultimate team player and consummate leader. My earliest and fondest memories of NBA basketball are of watching Willis, who embodied the winning spirit that defined the New York Knicks’ championship teams in the early 1970s,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said.

Mr. Reed, a 6-foot-10 left-hander from Lincoln Parish, La., starred with New York from 1964 to 1974, leading the Knicks to NBA titles in 1970 and 1973.

Wearing No. 19, he was a seven-time All-Star, averaging 19 points and 13 rebounds for his career, often facing the likes of Boston’s Bill Russell and Philadelphia’s Wilt Chamberlain in Eastern Division matchups.

Mr. Reed had a smooth outside shot and was plenty to match up with the NBA finest in the paint.

In 1970 Mr. Reed was the NBA Most Valuable Player, All-Star Game MVP and playoffs Finals MVP.

He may be most remembered for the deciding Game Seven of the 1970 Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers, then featuring Chamberlain, Jerry West and Elgin Baylor.

Mr. Reed had missed Game 6 with a torn muscle in his thigh and LA had won 135-113. He was not expected to play in Game 7.

To the surprise and delight of many at Madison Square Garden, Mr. Reed limped onto the floor to start the game and quickly hit two jump shots. The crowd exploded with emotion.

When a hobbling Mr. Reed left the game for good late in the first half, the Knicks led 61-37 and went on to prevail 113-101.

Afterward, on national television, commentator Howard Cosell said this to Mr. Reed: “You exemplify the very best that the human spirit can offer.”

vs. vs. HBCU legends

Taylor posted a 136-49-1 overall record at Hampton between 1992 and 2007. He was 93-24-1 vs. MEAC opponents.

Mr. Reed was selected to the Naismith Hall of Fame in 1982, to the College Hall of Fame in 2006, to the NBA’s 50th anniversary team in 1997 and to the NBA’s 75th anniversary team in 2021. He was NBA Rookie of the Year in 1965. His No. 19 is retired by the Knicks. Following retirement as a player, Mr. Reed served as head coach at Creighton University, as assistant coach at St. John’s and an assistant coach and administrator with several NBA franchises, including the Knicks.

The greatest HBCU players to star in the NBA in addition to Grambling’s Willis Reed Al Attles (North Carolina A&T), Earl Monroe (Winsto-Salem State), Sam Jones (North Carolina Central), Zelmo Beaty (Prairie View), Bob Love (Southern), Charles Oakley and Ben Wallace (Virginia Union), Bob Dandridge (Norfolk State), Dick Barnett and Anthony Mason (Tennessee State), Elmore Smith (Kentucky State). And don’t forget Travis Grant; scored an all-divisions record 4,045 points at Kentucky State, 378 more than Division I leader Pete Maravich. Grant went on to play in ABA and NBA, averaging 14 points for his pro career.

Overall, in stints at Howard, Virginia Union, Hampton and Florida A&M, Taylor was 233-96-4. His teams won four national Black Colleges championships, 14 conference titles and were winners of seven bowl games. He currently is a member of the College Football Playoff committee.

NSU’s associate coach is one to watch

Jasmine Young is building an impressive résumé as an upand-coming women’s basketball coach.

The Richmonder served as the associate head coach this past season for MEAC champion Norfolk State. The Spartans finished 26-7 with a loss to top seed South Carolina in the NCAA tournament.

This was Coach Young’s third season at Norfolk State and second as the associate head coach under Larry Vickers.

Before going to Norfolk, Young served as an assistant coach at Virginia Union under Coach AnnMarie Gilbert. In Coach Young’s final two seasons at VUU, the Panthers were 56-8 and went to the NCAA Division II finals in 2017.

As a player, Coach Young was a brilliant guard at Monacan High School in Chesterfield County and at East Carolina State University. She went on to play professionally in Puerto Rico, Poland and Germany.

Willis Reed

Jaedyn Cook named to All-State first team

Mr. Taylor

Coach Young

Jaedyn Cook

Personality: Shirley H. Scarborough

For the past two years Shirley H. Scarborough has worked, in her own words, to create “Beauty for Ashe,” through her organization Cry Loud, Spare Not, Speak Up.

The organization was founded after Ms. Scarborough lost her daughter, Francesca HarrisScarborough and her daughter’s unborn child to domestic violence and murder in 2020.

“I want to help other women in unhealthy relationships to know that abuse is not love,” Ms. Scarborough says. I want women “to recognize the red flags of abuse in the early stages of the relationship, to know your worth and purpose, to help build self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-love.”

Since establishing Cry Loud, Spare Not, Speak Up in 2021, Ms. Scarborough has brought the organization’s message and mission to teenage girls and young women by presenting programs at the Word Church International Ministries and other Richmond-area locations.

On Saturday, April 8, Ms. Scarborough will host the “I Am Enough, I Know My Worth Conference,” at the Boys and Girls Club Teen Center. The program will focus on mentorship, education and setting boundaries in relationships.

“I want the older woman and the young woman and the little girls to know that you are enough,” Ms. Scarborough says. Ms. Scarborough adds that her main goal is to ensure no one else has to suffer the same tragedy she has lived through. To achieve this goal, Cry Loud works with area support groups in presenting workshops and resources for women in abusive

Spotlight on Cry Loud, Spare Not, Speak Up founder

relationships. Cry Loud also offers clothing, hygiene and health products, with profits supporting its operations.

As a young organization that has not become certified as a nonprofit, Cry Loud sometimes face challenges in meeting its goals and developing ways to build courage and self-worth among the women seeking its support. However, Ms. Scarborough says the organization currently is seeing a promising response from the public that has helped Cry Loud continue its work.

From the partners that work with its five-member team, to community donations to help further its efforts, to the 110 women and girls currently slated to attend the April 8 conference, Cry Loud’s work is being met by a receptive community, she says. For Ms. Scarborough, this reception is a promising sign of Cry Loud’s potential for good.

“It really just blew my mind, to see the response I’ve been getting,” Ms. Scarborough says.

“I’m just really excited about this vision that God has given me in channeling (my) grief to some greater purpose through pain.”

Meet a mother who is helping others recognize, avoid and escape abusive relationships and this week’s Personality, Shirley H. Scarborough:

Volunteer position: Founder, Cry Loud, Spare Not, Speak Up.

Occupation: Owner and director of daycare/learning center for 25 years.

Date of birth: Oct. 12.

Where I live now: Henrico County.

Education: Hanover County Schools System and J. Sargeant Reynolds.

Family: Husband (43 years of marriage), one son, two daughters (one deceased), and three grandchildren.

Cry Loud is: An organization and ministry that creates a safe space that empowers young women to speak up, not suffer in silence, and spare not their abusers.

When and why it was founded: Cry Loud was founded in 2021. Cry Loud was founded in memory of my late daughter, Francesca Harris-Scarborough and her unborn child, who were found tragically murdered in April 2020. She was shot in the heart two times. At the time of Francesca’s murder, she was involved in an abusive relationship.

Domestic violence is: A violent

or abusive learned behavior used to gain power and control over a spouse, partner, girlfriend/boyfriend, or another intimate family member. It can present as physical, emotional, psychological, economical, sexual, or a form of harassment. Domestic violence does not discriminate and can affect anyone regardless of status, race, religion, age, gender or education.

Why I want to help others: The loss of my daughter and her child is unexplainable; it is a generation lost, but Francesca’s death will not be in vain. There would be Beauty for Ashes. I want to help other women in unhealthy relationships to know that abuse is not love.

To recognize the RED flags of abuse in the early stages of the relationship. To break generational cycles that need to be broken. To know your worth and purpose. To help build self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-love. To not suffer in silence. I want the old woman and the young woman and the little girls to know that you are enough. To know that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. To know that you are God’s masterpiece. To Cry Loud, Spare Not, Speak Up!

Advice for turning tragedy into something positive: To grieve, but not as though there is no hope. Although there were days that I wanted to stay in bed, I had to get up and I was grateful that I did it. I never stopped my routine. I stayed in continual prayer. It was hard but pain produces purpose.

Strategy for achieving goals: We will educate and provide domestic abuse and relationship violence awareness to women and girls of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures. We will supply resources for finding shelter for women/families in emergency situations. We will reach the community through support groups, workshops, conferences, working with girl/women organizations, and partnering with other local community resources, counselors, and mentors.

Ways to become involved with Cry Loud: We always welcome donations and gifts of love to help progress the vision and mission of Cry Loud. Additionally, you can follow us on our Facebook page, Cry Loud Spare Not, Speak Up, keep up with our upcoming events on our Eventbrite page under Cry Loud, or direct any inquiries to t.dabney0709@gmail.com.

Resources for someone in need of help: Cry Loud currently works with an excellent counselor, Dr. Gregory Marcelle, with L.E.V.E.L.S LLC.

Additionally, someone in need can always contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. Please feel free to reach out to CryLoud for additional area resources.

Upcoming events: “I Am

Enough, I Know My Worth Conference” April 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club Teen Center, 1830 Creighton Road. The event is free and open to all girls and women age 13 and up. Registration is required and will close on Friday, March 31, 2023.

A perfect day for me is: A day on the water spending

time with my grandchildren and crocheting.

What I am continuing to learn about myself during the pandemic: To have more compassion, grace, and mercy with people. You never know what someone else may be going through.

Something about me that people may not know: Sometimes my boldness and conviction come off as stern, but I am actually full of compassion and kindness.

A quote that inspires me: “God will take your disability and make it your ability,” and “I Can Do All Things Through Christ.”

My friends describe me as:

An awesome and praying mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, spiritual mother, and faithful overseer who loves the Lord.

At the top of my “to-do” list: Designing a signature program for teen girls to know their worth and value.

Best late-night snack: Grapes.

The best thing my parents ever taught me: Coming from a large family, my parents always taught us to share and the value of family.

The person who influenced me the most: God has blessed me to have the influence of my parents, my mother-in-law, my father-in-law, and my spiritual parents.

Next goal: To continue to grow Cry Loud as a staple in the community and reach as many women and girls as God allows.

Pine Camp theater program enhances students’ confidence, world view

By Holly Rodriguez

A program at Richmond’s Pine Camp Cultural Arts and Community Center is helping students learn job readiness skills by using theater as a backdrop to encourage creativity and self confidence.

In early March, a trip to a theater conference in Lexington, Ky., further enabled several Richmond-area students to learn about theater as an industry.

Designed as a three-year cohort for students in the Greater Richmond area, “Journey - Mapping Your Career Course” is the only program in the cultural arts Department of the city’s Parks and Recreation department exclusively designed for 20 teens ages 13 to 17.

Richmond residents participate at no cost, while non-Richmond residents pay $20 for the program that runs from October to June each year. Students work on every aspect of the production during the year, which culminates in a production during Juneteenth, the annual celebration of slave emancipation in the United States.

Myron Clack, the program’s job readiness instructor, said the seven students in this year’s program have not settled on a theater production, but the final performance is June 17.

The underlying principles of the program are to help students understand the importance of getting an education, and getting them ready to embark on a career, whether or not that choice is theater, he said.

“If a student chooses theater as a career, that is fine, but not

Myron Clack photo

Student participants and instructors in this year’s Pine Camp “JourneyMapping Your Career Course” program recently traveled to Kentucky to learn more about theater careers. They are, from right, Rochelle Turnage, theater production assistant at Pine Camp, Maria Johnson, Jace Miles, Elizabeth Hudson, Sidnei Jefferson, Darrelle Graham Jr. and Ella Hunt. Sitting is Barbara Brock, a Pine Camp program specialist and coordinator.

necessary,” he said. “So many people are not prepared for adulthood, and this program builds confidence in the students so they can go on and do well in whatever career they choose.”

In recruiting students, Mr. Clack said he seeks students who are

James Solomon Russell Day celebrated with new documentary

By Karyn Cook

Twenty-three years after the end of the Civil War, the Rev. James Solomon Russell founded Saint Paul Normal and Industrial School in Lawrenceville. He did so knowing how much the town and surrounding areas longed to educate its residents who longed to read and write.

Rev. Russell, an Episcopal priest, “fended off the school’s early struggles by aggressively fundraising, and Saint Paul’s expanded in both its size and curriculum,” historians note. He retired as its principal in 1929 and was succeeded by his son, James Alvin Russell.

Alumni and civic leaders familiar with his work celebrated Rev. Russell’s legacy during James Solomon Russell Day last weekend during a dinner and documentary premiere at Virginia State University.

Dr. Cheryl Mango, an assistant professor and executive director of the National HBCU Studies Program Committee and Research Center at Virginia State University, was clear when speaking about Rev. Russell, who died in 1935.

“What good is a legacy if it’s not protected?”

Ms. Mango asked attendees. “We are protecting a rich legacy, a legacy of the African-American struggle, will, triumph and continued success of the actions and offerings of the late great, formerly enslaved James Solomon Russell.”

During the celebration, the documentary, “James Solomon Russell: Adventure in Faith” premiered. It was produced by actress Nicci Carr, a 1994 graduate of Saint Paul’s who has appeared in such as FX’s Atlanta and a popular Geico commercial.

Looking for something to do or new experiences in the weeks ahead? Here are just a few of the upcoming fun events and adventures:

The 23rd season of the Riverfront Canal Cruises

Organized by: Venture Richmond

Where it takes place: The Turning Basin at 139 Virginia St.

When it takes place: The 23rd season starts on Saturday, April 1, and runs Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 7 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. that month, then from noon to 7 p.m. Mondays to Fridays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays from May to September.

Cost: Tickets cost $12 for adults, $8 for children between the ages of 5 to 12 and seniors 65 years and older, children age 4 or younger can ride for free. Tickets are sold on a first come, first serve basis in person and online up to 18 hours.

More information: www. venturerichmond.com/our-services/riverfront-canal-cruises

RVA757 Connects’ Virtual Innovation Spotlight Webinar: Teaching for a Digital Economy

Organized by: RVA757 Connects.

Where it takes place: Online through Zoom.

When it takes place:

The film details Rev. Russell’s early life and the opening of the Saint Paul’s Normal and Industrial School, which later became Saint Paul’s College.

The college closed in June 2012.

Ms. Carr said attending Saint Paul’s, a private, historically Black college, was “fun and enjoyable,” but also “challenging” because academics did not come easy for her.

interested in music, singing or art. Even a student who is interested in science, he said, may enjoy working the technical aspect of lighting.

“Participating in the Journey Program improved my public speaking and helped me learn more about my community’s history,” said Jace Miles, an eighth-grader at Henderson Middle School.” Traveling to Lexington introduced me to different careers and opportunities in the arts.”

“Through the program I also met great people, including U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, who attended our Juneteenth performance,” said Miles, a former State Senate Page.

Theater provides an avenue of exposure for students beyond what they know, Mr. Clack said. The group’s recent trip last week to the Southeastern Theatre Conference’s annual convention, for example, allowed students a deep dive into how the theatre industry works and what type of education and skills are required for a career in theater, he said.

Hosted in Lexington, Ky., the three-day event drew approximately 5,000 theater enthusiasts from throughout the southeastern United States. Students attended workshops, trainings, panel discussions, a youth invitational festival, and a high school theater competition.

Mr. Clack said he could feel the students’ enthusiasm after the trip. “It was very motivating for them,” he said. “The students now want to create a production and compete next year.”

Jump squads

George Wythe High School cheerleaders entertain several hundred spectators at Huguenot High School with loud cheers and high-flying leaps and dance moves at Richmond Public Schools’ 2023 All City Cheer Explosion on March 25. Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School took home the Middle School Team performance championship, and River City Middle School and Armstrong High School won Solo performance championships. Below, a thrilled John Marshall High School cheering squad hears their name announced as the winners of the team championship at the 2023 All City Cheer Explosion. The squad, known as the Icettes, are coached by Shaia Scott, a former Armstrong High School cheerleader. The team was named the Grand Champs in the Portsmouth Battle Competition and placed first in Nationals in the North Carolina Stomp-N-Shake Competition.

Creating the documentary also was not easy because it involved hundreds of hours of research, recording voiceovers, complex editing and combing through archives, said Ms. Carr, who was undergoing breast cancer treatment when creating the documentary.

Yet, she persevered.

“It’s a historical story worth telling about vision and tenacity,” Ms. Carr said.

The program was presented by the James Solomon Russell- Saint Paul’s College Museum and Archives.

To learn more about James Solomon Russell: https://encyclopediavirginia.org/entries/russelljames-solomon-1857-1935/

Wednesday, April 5, from noon to 1 p.m.

Cost: The webinar is free, but registration is necessary by emailing greg.gilligan@rva757connects.com

More information: www. rva757connects.com/

Dominion Energy Family Easter

Organized by: Maymont.

Where it takes place: The Carriage House Lawn at 1700 Hampton St. When it takes place: Saturday, April 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Cost: General admission costs $5 for adults and children.

More information: www. maymont.org/calendar/easter2023/

Leadership Metro Richmond’s Spring Alumni Luncheon

Organized by: Leadership Metro Richmond

Where it takes place: The John Marshall Ballrooms, 101 N. 5th St. When it takes place: Thursday, April 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Cost: Tickets cost $70 for LMR alums or current class members and $80 for guests, who must be accompanied by an LMR alum.

More information: www. classy.org/event/lmr-2023 -spring-alumni-luncheon/ e461888

People to see, places to go!

The 29th James River Film Festival

Organized by: James River Film Society.

Where it takes place: Various locations, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Byrd Theatre.

When it takes place: From Thursday, April 20, to Sunday, April 23, at 1 p.m.

Cost: Some screenings are currently listed at $8 to attend. More information: www. jamesriverfilm.org/

Dressed to the Nines Jazz Concert

Organized by: The Dr. Billy Taylor Jazz Studies Program at Virginia State University

Where it takes place: The Anderson-Turner Auditorium of the VSU Virginia Hall

When it takes place: Thursday, April 27, at 7 p.m.

Cost: Admission is free.

2nd Annual RPS Youth Poetry Slam

Organized by: The Writer’s Den

Where it takes place: The Visual Arts Center of Richmond at 1812 W. Main St.

When it takes place: Saturday, April 29, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cost: The event is free, but donations are welcome through CashApp and Venmo

More information: Contact @thewritersdenrva on Instagram

Friday Cheers’ 38th Concert Season

Organized by: Friday Cheers.

Where it takes place: Brown’s Island.

When it takes place: Every Friday in May and June, starting Friday, May 5, to Friday, June 30, from 6 to 9:30 p.m.

Cost: All tickets cost $10 in advance and $15 at the door, though children age 12 and under can attend for free.

More information: www. venturerichmond.com/our-

events/friday-cheers/ Henrico Junior 4-H Summer Camp

Organized by: The Henrico County office of Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Where it takes place: The Jamestown 4-H Educational Center at 3751 4-H Club Road

When it takes place: From Monday, Aug.7, to Friday, Aug. 11.

Cost: $345, which covers five days and four nights of meals and lodging, alongside programs, materials and a T-shirt.

Transportation is not provided this year. More information: www. henrico.us/extension or 804501-5160. Parents interested in volunteering can contact Kendra Young at kkyoung@ vt.edu or Carter Humphries at chumphries@vt.edu

Compiled by George Copeland Jr.

Mr. Clack

Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Ms. Carr

Church)

Former record store owner remembered

By Craig Belcher

F. “Bill”

William

Kennedy, founder and owner of BK Music, a record store in Richmond’s South Side, died Tuesday, March 14, 2023, after a bout with pneumonia. Mr. Kennedy, who was 70, had decades of experience in the music industry having worked for Harmony Hut and Peaches Music and Video before opening his own store in the Stratford Hills Shopping Center in 2001.

Local musician Bill McGee, who once managed several record stores known as Album Den, met Mr. Kennedy in the 1980s, when he was working at Peaches. Their relationship continued when Mr. McGee began releasing albums of his own and selling them from Mr. Kennedy’s store.

“He was just a straightforward guy, you know, easy to talk to,” Mr. McGee said. “He wasn’t a guy that you want to blow a lot of smoke at. He didn’t need a bunch of hype. Bill was a businessman.”

After his store closed, Mr. Kennedy remained a pillar of the local music industry, consulting with other record store owners and sharing his resources and knowledge.

“He knew the business inside and out. If I ever had any questions, I’d definitely get an answer from Bill,” said Bob Schick, the new music buyer at Plan 9 Records in Carytown. “He was a fantastic guy. He was a legend, as far as I’m concerned.”

Honoring a sheroe

The 111th birthday of Richmond native and civil rights legend Dorothy Irene Height was celebrated Friday, March 24, at the Hull Street Branch Library on Richmond’s South Side and not far from where Dr. Height was born. Standing in front of a historic marker that honors Dr. Height is Barbara Crump of Glen Allen, a National Council of Negro Women member. Dr. Height was president of the NCNW for 40 years.

The program also drew Dr. Height’s great nephew, Jeffrey Randolph of Chesterfield, and members of the Richmond Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, which also hosted the event. Dr. Height served as the national sorority’s 10th president. To further honor Dr. Height, many of those in attendance wore her signature color purple.

Moore

Mr. Kennedy was born in Massachusetts and raised in Tucson, Ariz. He was an Army veteran and served in Vietnam. He leaves behind his wife, Gina Kennedy and two sons; Michael “Joe” Kennedy and Liam Kennedy. He also is survived by his brothers, George “Mike” Kennedy and Joseph Kennedy, and a sister, Anne Gobron. Meredith Newcomb was the manager at BK Music for several years and was there when it shut down in 2019. She said Mr. Kennedy’s kindness and thoughtfulness were two reasons for his success.

“He was just good with people. And that’s why he was so good at business because he had such great business relationships as well,” Ms. Newcomb said. “He just knew how to treat people.”

Good Shepherd Baptist Church

Broad Rock Baptist Church

5106 Walmsley Blvd., Richmond, VA 23224 804-276-2740 • 804-276-6535 (fax) www.BRBCONLINE.org

“BACK IN SERVICE” Our doors are open again Mask required • Must provide vaccination card Every Sunday @ 11:00 am. Live Streaming Every Sunday At: BRBConline.org or YouTube(Broad Rock

“MAKE IT HAPPEN”

Pastor Kevin Cook

Holy Wedn�day S�vice

Sunday Church School • 9am (Zoom)

Sunday Morning Worship • 11am (in-person and livestream on YouTube) Wednesday Bible Study • 7pm (Zoom)

St. Peter Baptist Church

Love to Sing?

Want to Make a Difference in the Richmond Community?

One Voice Chorus is a non-profit, intentionally integrated chorus bringing a musically diverse range of excellent choral performances to Central Virginia audiences. We are dedicated to the idea that bringing people together of different backgrounds promotes not only kindness and respect, but an embrace of those differences. All are welcome to sing the beauty and power of diversity in an atmosphere of openness, inclusiveness, mutual respect, and fun. We are especially interested in welcoming additional Black and other singers of color. We rehearse on Monday evenings, 7:00-9:15 pm, at Epiphany Lutheran Church at 1400 Horsepen Road. No auditions required! The ability to read music is helpful but not required. Rehearsals for our June 10 concert begin on April 3.

The concert will include spirituals, classical and show tunes. For more information, visit www.onevoicechorus.org or email OVC@onevoicechorus.org.

Liberty Baptist Church is seeking a musician or pianist.

If interested, please send resume or letter of interest to Bhicks52@aol.com or call or text 804 240 0543. Church is located at 12901 Genito Road, Amelia, VA 23002.

The preferred candidate should possess previous custodian and/or sexton experience as well as experience in operating a floor buffer and other equipment.

A Criminal History Background Check, and references are required.

Please pick up an application at: Providence Park Baptist Church, 468 E. Ladies Mile Road, Richmond, VA 23222 (The Church Office is located at the back of the church). The e-mail address is cnickens@verizon.net, and the fax number is (804) 780-7791. For more information, please call (804) 329-1963.

Photos by Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press