Richmond Free Press October 20-22, 2022 edition

Operation

Youngkin plans to reduce homicides, shootings with more police, higher pay

By Jeremy M. Lazarus NORFOLK

What’s the solution to the spate of shootings and violence that appears to be on the upswing in Richmond and across the state?

Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin believes beefing up currently beleaguered and undermanned law enforcement agen

‘Votercade’ stops in RVA

The #10MillionMoreBlackVoters and the Arc of Voter Justice Bus Tour made its way through Richmond with an initial stop on the campus of Virginia Union University on Oct. 17. Marcus Arbery, the father of Ahmaud Arbery, the young Black man who was murdered by three white men on Feb. 23, 2020, while jogging in Still Shores, Ga., briefly spoke to people gathered in front of the L. Douglas Wilder Library. “I had to find out the hard way how serious voting is. I lost my child,” he said. ‘When people bond together we make stuff happen.

cies and investing in witness protection and local crime prevention initiatives is the best way to go.

On Monday, the governor came to Norfolk to roll out Operation Bold Blue Line as he dubbed his action plan to address the apparent surge in violence that has increased local cries for help and support.

His plan would mostly pour funding into police pay,

recruiting and equipment in a bid to attract more people to carry a badge, though much of his proposal will need to wait for funding approval.

He also wants to speed up training of new hires, push for funding from the General Assembly to aid victims and

Shelter in place?

Homeless advocacy group says many unaware of warm housing when temperatures drop

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

As temperatures plunged into the 30s this week as fore cast, a reluctant City Hall at the last minute grudgingly opened two overnight shelters – one for 50 single men and one for 50 single women, but none for those with children.

Mayor Levar M. Stoney and his administration quietly sent email notices to some home less groups about opening, but refused to issue any public statement in an apparent bid to reduce demand — follow ing the script from the Sept. 30 tropical storm when only 12 homeless people managed to find the unannounced city shelter to get out of the heavy downpour.

As was the case Sept. 30, most people who needed a warm place never got the word, ac cording to a homeless advocacy organization, which decried the fact the city waited until 6 p.m. to announce the two shelters had opened an hour earlier.

The shelters at United Na tions Church, 214 Cowardin Ave. in South Side, and at the

Tax revenue from Petersburg, Richmond casinos may top $190M in 5 years, study shows

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Richmond and Petersburg could both support casinos.

That’s the surprising finding of a new study released Monday.

That finding potentially gives the Gen eral Assembly a way to avoid taking sides in the upcoming session between the two cities that are now openly competing for the right to have a gambling mecca both see as creating a gusher of jobs and tax revenue.

The Innovation Group, a casino con sultant, prepared the study and projected the state would maximize its revenue from gaming taxes by giving both cities the

opportunity to develop.

If new casinos opened in both places by 2027, the study prepared for a legislative commission estimated the state should see total revenue from gaming taxes exceed $190 million by 2028, or $5 million to $20 million more than if just Petersburg or just Richmond opened a casino.

The projection the Innovation Group developed is based on estimates of the total gaming tax revenue to be derived in 2028 from already approved casinos in Bristol, Danville, Portsmouth and Norfolk, plus the two new ones, as well as from Rosie’s operation of slot machines based on historic horse racing.

Both Richmond and Petersburg also

would gain significant new tax revenue from their share of state gaming taxes if both had casinos, the study indicated.

The Innovation Group estimated that in the first year of operation, Petersburg would gain around $8 million in new revenue and Richmond would gain nearly $14 million in new gaming tax revenue.

That does not include the take each community could gain from local taxes on real estate, personal property, admissions, lodging, business licensing and other taxes and fees, nor any tax revenue a locality might receive directly from a casino’s profit from gambling.

Masks now optional for RPS students

By Holly Rodriguez

Students attending Richmond Public Schools are no longer required to wear masks after the School Board voted to eliminate the mandate at Monday night’s meeting.

Return of the pumpkins

Jonathan Young, 5th District representa tive, has been pushing for the School Board to eliminate the mask mandate for months. In the surrounding counties, Chesterfield and Hanover’s school boards eliminated their mask-wearing requirement in Janu ary of this year. Henrico’s School Board followed suit in February.

When Mr. Young initially introduced a

What’s in a name?

Efforts to rename the Lee Bridge rise again, bounded by slave-holding ties

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Instead of a slavery-defending general, a key bridge over the James River could soon bear the name of a plantation where enslaved people labored.

Fifth District City Councilwoman Stephanie A. Lynch has spearheaded the revived effort to rename the Robert E. Lee Memorial Bridge after nearly 90 years to wipe away its asso ciation with the leader of the Confederate military that fought to separate from the Union and create a country where slavery was perpetual.

Her proposal, which cleared a council committee Tuesday, would change the name to Belvidere Bridge. Second District Katherine Jordan has signed on as a supporter of the ordinance, which the full council is expected to approve at the Monday, Nov. 14, meeting.

Free

The

• Thursday,

Infants

1 p.m. - Southside

a.m.

,

Children Office,

E. Southside Plaza; 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. - Fulton Neighborhood Resource Center, 1519 Williamsburg Road.

• Wednesday, Oct. 26, 8 to 10 a.m. - East Henrico Recreation Center, 1440 N Laburnum Ave.

Call the Richmond and Henrico COVID-19 Hotline at (804) 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.

Gov. Youngkin

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Park United

Please turn to A4 Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Let’s get together and let’s make something happen at that poll.” The “Votercade” also passed down the city’s Brookland Park Boulevard before stopping at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School. The tour, led by the Transformative Justice Coalition, started Oct. 8 in Minneapolis and will end in Florida Oct. 21 after stops in North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. The coalition’s national partner organizations include the National Newspaper

Publishers Association, Rainbow/Push Coalition, Black Voters Matter, Concerned Black Men of America, Hip Hop Caucus, League of Women Voters, and the African-American Policy Forum’s 25-city Arc of Voter Justice Tour. Along the way participants register to vote, check their eligibility to vote and read banned books as “we transform voting and the voting experience,” according to announcements about the free, nonpartisan event.

Photos by Regina H. Boone/Richmond Free Press

Calls mount for City’s property tax decision

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Keep the real estate tax rate the same? Or cut it?

City Council is considering an answer this Thursday, Oct. 20, at the Finance and Economic Development Standing Committee amid pressure from property owners seeking relief as property values in the city continue to increase even faster than inflation that now tops 8 percent.

And that pressure could ratchet up when the administration formally announces in a few weeks that the 2021-2022 fiscal year ended June 30 with more than $20 million in unexpended dollars, 90 percent of which will be placed in savings accounts.

The council was notified in mid-September to expect that kind of surplus after the audit of the books is completed.

The Finance Committee will consider three proposals.

One from Council President Cynthia I. Newbille, 7th Dis trict, would keep the rate at its current level, $1.20 per $100 of assessed value, the same rate that has been in place for more than a decade.

Fourth District Councilwoman Kristen Nye and 8th District Councilwoman Reva M. Trammell have jointly proposed a 4-cent reduction in the property tax rate to $1.16 per $100 of value, a 3.3 percent cut. The owner of a property with an assessed value of $200,000 would save $80 in taxes.

Ms. Trammell also has proposed cutting the tax rate to $1.072, a nearly 11 percent cut. That reduction would save $256 in taxes for the owner of a property valued at $200,000.

The three-member committee that 9th District Councilman Michael J. Jones leads has choices. It could recommend one of the plans to the full council for approval at the next meeting, Monday, Nov. 14, and urge that the other proposals be junked at that time.

The committee also could decide to send all three proposals on for further debate by the full council or the committee could agree on a different rate and offer the full council an opportu nity to amend one of the three ordinances with the committee’s proposed rate, pushing off a final vote until the mid-December meeting.

Council’s decision on the rate will impact the revenue projec tions that Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s administration will use to craft a spending plan proposal for the 2023-24 fiscal year that will begin next July 1.

Organizers used the social media platform Tik Tok to stage an Oct. 15 march and rally against legislation and violence that harms trans gender people. Richmond’s march, part of the Oct. 1 National Day of Action to End Violence and Genocide on Transgender People, began in Monroe Park and ended at the Virginia State Capitol.

Cityscape Slices of life and scenes in Richmond

According to the Trans Radical Activist Network, this year’s rallies in multiple cities came after Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene introduced H.R. 8731, Protect Children’s Innocence Act, to the U.S. House of Representatives in August.

If passed, the bill would make it a felony to provide gender-

affirming medical care including puberty blockers and hormones to transgender youth under 18, prohibit using federal funds for gender-affirming health care, and bar colleges and universities from offering instruction on gender-affirming care.

Student activists recently held school walkouts throughout Virginia to protest Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s proposed changes to the state’s guidance on transgender student poli cies, revisions that would roll back some accommodations and require parental sign-off on the use of any name or pronoun not in a student’s official school record.

How will race impact pardons for marijuana possession?

those convicted.

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

The city’s housing authority has begun a search for a master developer to transform Gilpin Court.

The goal: To transform the city’s oldest and largest public hous ing community into a mixed-income community, according to the request for qualifications that the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority posted on the state’s procurement website.

Authority representatives met with interested parties Monday and set a deadline of Tuesday, Nov. 1, to receive submissions from developers seeking to take on a potential $300 to $400 million development in partnership with RRHA, residents, the city and other interested parties.

The advertisement settles a key issue as RRHA prominently notified those seeking to respond that one-for-one replacement of the 781 units would be required in any plan.

The search for a developer comes a year after RRHA was awarded a $450,000 federal planning grant to start the process, with prospects that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development would award a $30 million Choice Neighborhood Grant to jump-start the development.

Gilpin would follow Creighton Court in the East End as the next of the six large public housing communities to undergo major change and would be the first big project since RRHA’s new chief executive officer, Steven B. “Steve” Nesmith, took over Oct. 1.

The Gilpin redevelopment would focus on the governmentowned portion that is named for renowned Richmond-born Broadway actor Charles Sidney Gilpin, who was one of the most highly regarded stage actors of the 1920s. The housing community was developed in the early 1940s as Richmond’s first urban renewal initiative to provide “safe, decent housing” for working families.

Once home to the Independent Order of St. Luke that Richmond icon Maggie L. Walker once led, Gilpin Court has been isolated since the 1950s when construction of Interstate 95 separated Gilpin from Jackson Ward and in recent decades became best known for poverty and crime.

The target area is generally bounded by Chamberlayne Parkway on the west, Shockoe Cemetery on the east, railroad tracks to the north and the interstate to the south. The area still includes private holdings that already have seen some redevelopment, such as the conversion of the former St. Luke headquarters and the old Baker School into modern apartments and commercial space.

Based on the Creighton example, the planning process could take two to three years, with actual development three to five years away.

Suspension lifted for

cheerleading squad

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

The Woo Woos, Virginia State University’s cheerleading squad, was temporarily suspended from Trojans football games as the result of a complaint that veterans were hazing new members, the Free Press has learned.

However, the suspension already has been lifted as the Woo Woos are now shown as participating when the Trojans are scheduled to travel to Elizabeth City State University for a game at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22.

The Woo Woos did not participate in the Oct. 8 homecoming game with Bowie State or the away game Oct. 15 at Chowan.

VSU never announced the suspension and did not respond to Free Press queries. Details of the complaint that led to the suspension were never shared on social media, either.

Saturday’s football game is a new addition to the cheering schedule listed on the Woo Woos’ page at goVSUTrojans.com. On Monday, the Woo Woos were only listed as cheering at other upcoming competitions, including a softball game, a golf match and two volleyball contests.

The Woo Woos have been VSU’s cheerleading squad since 1974, according to information posted on the group’s page. The Free Press has been told by former squad members and coaches that the suspension was the first for the 48-year-old group.

By Chrisleen Herard TriceEdneyWire.com

President Biden has signed an executive order pardoning thousands of Americans who have been federally convicted for a “simple” marijuana possession charge prior to Oct. 6.

But does this mean the smoke of dis proportionate arrests and unreasonable and sometimes “mandatory minimum” sentencing is beginning to clear for Black inmates who remain behind bars under additional and state-level charges?

“As I’ve said before, no one should be in jail just for using or possessing mari juana,” President Biden tweeted soon after his executive order. “Today, I’m taking steps to end our failed approach.”

Marijuana is a psychotropic drug that temporarily changes the natural state of the mind. It consists of two main chemical elements, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the mind-altering component, and cannabidiol (CBD), the “sedative” component that con tains medical benefits for health issues such as anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain and even addiction, according to Harvard Health.

The Controlled Substance Act of 1970 cat egorized a plethora of drugs into five differ ent “schedules” based on its “medical use, potential for abuse, and safety or dependence liability.” The statute then further regulated the manufacturing, possession and distribu tion of those drugs under federal law.

Marijuana, classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, stands out on the list alongside heroin, ecstasy, LSD and peyote — drugs such as cocaine, fentanyl and meth are classified as Schedule II — meaning that the drug is defined to have no medical purposes in the United States and has high potential for abuse, (despite marijuana being legal and used for medical purposes once before from 1840 to 1900, and even now in 37 states).

“I am asking the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Attorney General to initiate the administrative process to review expeditiously how marijuana is scheduled under federal law,” President Biden wrote. “This is the same schedule as for heroin and LSD, and even higher than the classification of fentanyl and methamphetamine — the drugs that are driving our overdose epidemic.”

Marijuana was listed in the Federal Narcot ics Control Act of 1956 before being labeled a Schedule I controlled substance in 1970 where it has since remained. However, President

Richard Nixon, who signed the Controlled Substance Act, enabled strong federal regula tion, enforcement and penalties for those who use, possess and distribute the drug.

Nonetheless, there continue to be several debates surrounding the uses and conse quences of marijuana: Whether or not it causes cognitive deficiency in the brain, if pregnant women can ingest it without harm ing their unborn child, and if it’s a gateway drug that leads to a darker path.

While studies always show that there are simply not enough studies to prove any of these cases one way or another, one find ing that statistics have consistently shown is that the majority of users who are put in jail for marijuana charges lie within the Black community.

“Criminal records for marijuana pos session have also imposed barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities,” President Biden’s executive order read, “And while white and Black and brown people use marijuana at similar rates, Black and brown people have been arrested, prosecuted, and convicted at disproportionate rates.”

According to a 2020 report conducted by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Black people are more than 3x more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than white people, (in some states, Black people are up to 10x more likely), a statistic that has remained un changed since its 2010 report on the racial imbalance amongst marijuana arrests. The ACLU also noted that, “racial disparities in those arrests have not improved, and in some jurisdictions, they have worsened,” in every single state.

The report also found that back in 2018, when 43.5 million Americans reportedly smoked cannabis, 17.8 percent of users who smoked in that past year were Black and 16.5 percent were white. However, in terms of lifetime use, 42.4 percent of users were Black and 50.7 percent were white.

In spite of this, the ratio between Black and white people that are arrested are inconsistent, as well as the sentencing for

Kevin Allen was sentenced to two 10year prison terms after selling $20 worth of marijuana to a childhood friend, who was working as an informant for a narcotics task force in the area. Prosecutors then brought attention to Mr. Allen’s prior convictions in 2004, 2007, 2011 and 2014 of possession and intent to distribute before offering him a second 20-year plea deal. But Mr. Allen, who is a father of two and had a job at the time, turned down the plea deal, later regret ting not taking the offer as his sentence was ultimately raised to life-without-parole.

Mr. Allen is not the only one.

But with America’s growing support for marijuana legalization, and President Biden’s recent executive order, some are hopeful that these are steps to decriminaliz ing the most commonly used federally illegal drug in the United States, and Biden calls for state governments to do the same.

Kassanda Frederique, executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, stated, “We are thrilled to see President Biden holding true to his commitment to pardon every person with simple marijuana possession charges at the federal level, including people in D.C. And we are further encouraged by his efforts to get Governors to take similar actions at the state level.”

“This is incredibly long overdue. There is no reason that people should be saddled with a criminal record — preventing them from obtaining employment, housing, and countless other opportunities — for some thing that is already legal in 19 states and D.C. and decriminalized in 31 states.”

Others believe President Biden’s pardon was an election tactic to increase future votes, especially among young and Black demographics, as the midterm elections draw near.

“The President, in his announced policy on marijuana, has waived the flag of surrender in the fight to save lives from drug abuse and has adopted all the talking points of the drug legalizers,” said Asa Hutchinson, the Repub lican governor of Arkansas. “Biden is simply playing election-year politics and sacrificing our national interest to win votes.”

Thus far President Biden’s pardons have changed the lives of 6,500 Americans who have been convicted of simple marijuana possession on a federal level. Though none currently remain in prison, 6,500 people are now able to apply for a job, rent an apartment and explore educational opportunities without the stain of a felony conviction on their record.

Expansion program designed to attract nurses in senior living industry

Free Press staff report

A new partnership is opening the doors for students interested in nursing careers in community colleges across Virginia.

Thanks to a $500,000 investment in 2019 from Retirement Unlimited Inc. and a partnership with the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education, the RUI Expansion Program is already paying dividends in five Virginia community col leges that have started or expanded their nursing programs.

Students at Brightpoint Community College can now begin the college’s new practical nurse program in the fall or spring

semesters, with the potential to become prac tical nurses in less than a year. This program began last August, thanks in large part to the investment of the RUI program.

“Part of our vision at Retirement Unlimited Inc. is to provide support for initiatives that encourage the growth of our future leaders in the senior living industry,” RUI President Doris-Ellie Sullivan said in a statement.

“By funding the Brightpoint Community College practical nursing program, we hope to raise awareness for the fact that senior living is an option for a successful and fulfilling career path.”

Besides Brightpoint, nursing programs at Virginia Western, Reynolds and Piedmont

Virginia community colleges are expand ing thanks to the RUI program, which is also providing nursing scholarships to students at Paul D. Camp Community College students.

“With the help of RUI, and other partners who have followed in their footsteps, more students than ever are finding their way to successful careers in nursing through community college,” VFCCE executive director Jennifer Gentry said.

“Not only does this help to fill the everincreasing need for allied health profession als, but it gives Virginians from every area and walk of life opportunities for sustained success through education.”

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Gilpin Court community to undergo major change

Journalist, educator launches VCU social justice lecture series

By Holly Rodriguez

When Linda Villarosa’s ground breaking book, “Body & Soul” was published in 1994, it was the first and only self-help book specifically written to address Black women’s health concerns.

Powered by the National Black Women’s Health Project, the book sought to “end the damaging con spiracy of silence about the realities of Black women’s lives and give voice to the physical, emotional and spiritual health experiences of Black women today,” reads the book’s description.

The nearly 600-page book was and remains direct and relevant in its content — body weight, reproductive system and menstruation, abortion, fibroids, menopause, emotional pain, sexuality and safe sex, violence, incest and child abuse, HIV and AIDS.

When writing “Body & Soul,” Ms. Villarosa was an award-winning health and science writer and execu tive editor at Essence magazine. She

arrived at Essence after graduating from the University of Colorado and moving to New York with the singu lar goal of working for the monthly fashion, beauty, entertainment and culture publication founded in 1970 for Black women.

The job didn’t come overnight.

“I was working for another publica tion across the street from Essence, and I kept pitching ideas to them,” said Ms. Villarosa. In the late 1980s, she became a contributing writer for Essence, and was eventually hired as its senior editor of health.

Her decade at Essence set Ms. Villarosa on a path of exposing and questioning the cause of health disparities in American culture. She spent a year at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health as a journalism fellow, and later earned a master’s in urban journalism/digital storytelling from CUNY’s Craig New mark Graduate School of Journalism, where she is a professor and journalist in residence.

As a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine, she writes about race, inequality and health, and has served as the health editor for Science Times. She also teaches Black Studies and journalism at the City College of New York in Harlem.

Ms. Villarosa’s research and report ing on disparities in health care will be the focus of her talk as the inaugural speaker of the Virginia Commonwealth University Libraries’ new social justice lecture series at 7 p.m. on Oct. 27 in the James Branch Cabell Library on VCU’s campus. The event is free and open to the public.

In the last five years, her work has been regularly recognized for journal istic excellence. Ms. Villarosa’s 2017 article, “America’s Hidden HIV Epi demic,” won a National Lesbian and Gay Journalists’ award for Excellence in Journalism. In 2018, her cover story, “Why America’s Black Mothers and Babies Are in a Life-or-Death Crisis,” was a finalist for a National Magazine Award. Her essay on medical myths

was included in the New York Times’ 1619 Project.

Ms. Villarosa’s recent work also includes the impact of COVID-19 on Black communities in America, the environmental justice movement in Philadelphia and life expectancy in Chicago. Her latest book, “Under the Skin: The Hidden Toll of Rac ism on American Lives and on the Health of Our Nation,” was released last summer.

After years of writing about health issues, Ms. Villarosa said the pandemic forced America to see and address the disparities in health care that negatively impact people of color, and face a much harder truth. It is not race, but racism that is causing these dispari ties in health outcomes for Black and brown people.

“During my talk, I plan to discuss this question: In such a wealthy coun try, where we spend more on health care per person per year — about $12,000 — why are our health out comes so poor?”

Student loan forgiveness application website goes live

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON

President Biden on Monday officially kicked off the application process for his student debt cancellation program and announced that 8 million borrowers had already applied for loan relief during the federal government’s soft launch period over the weekend.

He encouraged the tens of millions eligible for potential relief to visit studentaid.gov and touted the application form that the president said would take less than five minutes to complete.

An early, “beta launch” version of the online form released late Friday handled the early stream of applications “without a glitch or any difficulty,” President Biden said.

“It means more than 8 million Americans are — starting this week — on their way to receiving life-changing relief,” President Biden, accompanied by Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, said Monday. The president called his program a “game-changer” for millions of Americans saddled with student loan debt.

The number of borrowers who applied during the testing period already amounts to more than one-fourth of the total number of applicants the administration projected would submit forms, underscoring the popularity of the program and the eagerness of borrowers to receive the debt

relief. Some 8 million borrowers who have income information already on file with the Education Department would see their debt canceled without applying.

The Biden administration plan calls for $10,000 in federal student debt cancellation for those with incomes below $125,000 a year, or households that make less than $250,000 a year. Those who received federal Pell Grants to attend college are eligible for an additional $10,000. The plan makes 20 million eligible to get their federal student debt erased entirely.

President Biden promised to pursue wide spread student debt forgiveness as a presidential candidate, but the issue went through more than a year of internal deliberation amid questions about its legality. His plan sparked intense debate ahead of the midterm elections, with Republicans and some Democrats saying it’s an unfair handout for college graduates.

But on Monday, President Biden offered a full-throated defense of his decision.

“My commitment was if elected president, I was going to make government work to deliver for the people,” President Biden said. “This rollout keeps that commitment.”

Here’s how to apply: Go to studentaid.gov and in the section on student loan debt relief, click “Apply Now.”

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President Biden answers questions Monday with Education Secretary Miguel Cardona as they leave an event about the student debt relief portal beta test in the South Court Auditorium OF the White House in Washington.

Youngkin plans to reduce homicides, shootings with more police, higher pay

Continued from

witnesses and push increased state support for local programs that work to address the root causes of crime.

His plan, though, does not include support for common wealth’s attorneys, the lawyers who prosecute crime, so they can fill their vacancies.

That’s the reason Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramin Fatehi participated in another even and was among many prosecutors who stayed away.

He said he watched the press conference but felt the plan did little to address the problems prosecutors are facing, a short age of staff.

“If the governor and attorney general wanted to help local prosecutors, they would support the full funding of local pros ecutor’s offices,” he said.

Mr. Fatehi was disappointed that instead, the governor blamed him and others for contributing to the current conditions through what the governor described as a failure to prosecute to “keep violent offenders behind bars.”

Such statements do nothing to address crime, Mr. Fatehi said, but instead just “widen the gap between the prosecu tors who are doing this job every day and a non-lawyer like Glenn Youngkin or a man who spent two years mostly prosecuting misdemeanors like Jason Miyares,”

Critics of the proposal also noted that the governor’s package did not give any attention to what they consider the main reason for rising violent crime – the prolif eration of guns, particularly into the hands of younger teens.

“If the governor was serious about curbing violent crime, he would focus his efforts on getting guns off the street,” said Gianni Snidle, a spokesperson for the Virginia Democratic Party that has made modest gun control a key plank in its public safety agenda along with support for police.

Mr. Snidle said that in stead, Gov. Youngkin and his Republican allies have fought laws that impose limits on the number of handguns people can buy each month, block firearms from some public places and prevent people who commit violent crimes from having access to firearms.

The Republican chief execu tive rolled out his five-step plan in reacting to shootings wreak ing havoc in various localities, including the eight shootings last weekend in Richmond that left two people dead and sent 10 wounded people to the hospital.

“Across Virginia, people wake up and turn on the morning news to hear story after story of violence in their communities: homicides, shootings, and ag gravated assaults,” he said.

At the same time, he said, “Virginia’s blue line is getting too thin,” citing a nearly 40

Free COVID-19 vaccines

Continued from A1

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 walk-up COVID-19 vaccines at the following locations:

• Thursday, Oct. 20 & Oct. 27, 1 to 4 p.m. - Richmond Henrico Health District, 400 E. Cary St., Pfizer for ages 6 months and older, Moderna for ages 6 months to 5 years old and ages 18 years and older, appointments encouraged.

• Tuesday, Oct. 25, 3 to 7 p.m. - Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1400 Perry St., Pfizer for ages 6 months and older, Moderna for ages 6 months to 5 years old and ages 18 years and older, open to the public.

• Wednesday, Oct. 26, 1 to 4 p.m. - Henrico Health District West Headquarters, 8600 Dixon Powers Drive, Pfizer for ages 6 months and older, Moderna for ages 6 months to 5 years old and ages 18 years and older, 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).

VaccineFinder.org and vaccines.gov also allow people to find nearby pharmacies and clinics that offer the COVID-19 vaccine and booster.

Those who are getting a booster shot should bring their vaccine card to confirm the date and type of vaccine received.

RHHD also offers at-home vaccinations by calling (804) 2053501 to schedule appointments.

New COVID-19 boosters, updated to better protect against the latest variants of the virus, are now available. The new Pfizer booster is approved for those age 12 and older, while the new Moderna booster is for those age 18 and older.

As with previous COVID-19 boosters, the new doses can only be received after an initial two vaccine shots, and those who qualify are instructed to wait at least two months after their second COVID-19 vaccine.

Following federal approval and statewide updates, the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts are set to begin offering bivalent Pfizer and Moderna boosters to children between the ages of 5 to 11 in clinics in the near future. Children in this age range will be eligible after at least two months since their last vaccine dose.

As part of preparations, RHHD has paused boosters for now-eligible children, as they are focused on ordering supplies and preparing new clinics to provide the new doses as soon as possible.

New COVID-19 cases in Virginia dropped by 2 percent during the last week, according to the Virginia Department of Health, and data from the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association showed hospitalizations statewide fell by 13 percent.

Richmond and the counties of Chesterfield, Henrico and Hanover continue to stay at low levels of community COVID19. Universal masking is strongly encouraged for five localities in Virginia.

A total of 1,274 new cases of COVID-19 were reported statewide Wednesday for the 24-hour period, contributing to an overall state total of 2,107,801 cases in Virginia since the pandemic’s outbreak. As of Wednesday, there have been 455,686 hospitalizations and 22,077 deaths statewide. The state’s sevenday positivity rate dropped to 9.9 percent on Wednesday. Last week, the positivity rate was 9.8 percent.

On Wednesday, state health officials reported that 72.8 percent of the state’s population has been fully vaccinated, while 82.9 percent have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

State data also showed that over 4.3 million people in Virginia have received booster shots or third doses of the vaccine.

Among ages 5 to 11 in Virginia, 338,529 have received their first shots as of Tuesday, accounting for 46.7 percent of the age group in the state, while 295,871 children, or 40.8 percent, are fully vaccinated and 54,031 children have received a third vaccine dose or booster, making up 7.5 percent of that age group.

As of Tuesday, 51,747 children from the ages of zero to four have received their first doses, making up 11.4 percent of the population in Virginia, while 37,214 are fully vaccinated, or 8.2 percent of the population. As of Tuesday, fewer than 176,830 cases, 1,066 hospitalizations and 15 deaths have been recorded among children in the state.

State data also shows that African-Americans comprised 22.1 percent of cases statewide and 22.9 percent of deaths for which ethnic and racial data is available, while Latinos made up 11.2 percent of cases and 4.9 percent of deaths.

Reported COVID-19 data as of Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022

Cases Hospitalizations

Richmond 57,811 1,208 544

County 82,244 1,627 1,023

County 91,973 1,672 828

County 26,536 815

Compiled by George Copeland

percent vacancy rate in some police departments, a 20 per cent vacancy rate in sheriff’s departments and shortage of 250 state troopers.

Joined by Lt. Governor Win some Earle-Sears and Attorney Gen. Jason S. Miyares and a host of law enforcement repre sentatives, the governor said his plan provides “clear, actionable steps to make our communities

safer,” although most will take time to implement and some would need General Assembly agreement.

He said his plan builds on the “common themes that have emerged from 14 meetings the Violent Crimes Task Force held across the state.”

His No. 1 step would involve “finally fixing pay and wage compression,” which has led

new hires to make nearly the same pay as veterans. He did not specify the cost that could run into the hundreds of millions of dollars and require legislative agreement.

He also wants the legislature to increase funding to Richmond and other cities and counties whose policies support com munity policing and promote violence reduction tactics.

Gov. Youngkin also is pro posing to spend $30 million on a wide-ranging recruitment campaign to help local sheriffs and police departments and the State Police rebuild depleted ranks. That funding also would go to support creation of what he called a new eight-week training program to enable those with experience to more quickly earn state certification.

Many unaware of warm shelter when temperatures drop

from

Linwood Robinson Senior Center, 700 N. 26th St. in Church Hill, were to oper ate from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. through Friday morning when night-time temperatures are forecast to rise.

The shelter operations were rushed into service. They were not in city plans despite the forecast that triggered a City Council policy requiring shelters to operate when temperatures and/or the wind chill factor are forecast to drop temperatures to 40 degrees or below.

Just last week, Sherill Hampton, director of housing and community development, testified to a City Council committee that the earliest a cold-weather shelter might open was Nov. 15.

The committee chair, Fifth District Councilwoman Stephanie A. Lynch, called the city’s inability to open a shelter at a time when evictions are skyrocketing and mount ing numbers of families are having their lights and heat disconnected “a failure.”

As it turned out, Ms. Hampton neglected to tell the Education and Human Services Committee on Oct. 13 that she and her staff had not been communicating with the chosen provider, Commonwealth Catholic Charities, which knew nothing about a Nov. 15 open ing and had no agreement with the city to operate just 60 beds, instead of the 150 beds that CCC was prepared to provide.

CCC went public the next day with a candid statement disclosing the failure of

Ms. Hampton and her staff to discuss the shelter plans and noting the Nov. 15 date was not realistic.

The Stoney administration no longer responds to Free Press queries, but the Free Press was told that it took intense lobbying to get Lincoln Saunders, the city’s chief admin istrative officer and the mayor’s right-hand man, to recognize that people could die and that a temporary shelter was essential.

Rhonda Sneed, who leads an army of volunteers under the banner of Blessing Warriors to feed and clothe the homeless, issued a Facebook screed harshly criticizing the administration for doing too little to ensure there was adequate shelter and that people in need knew it was available.

“I’ve typed, cried, yelled, cussed, threw stuff and much more within 24 hours,” Ms. Sneed wrote

She stated at 3 a.m. Wednesday she saw people sitting at bus stops waiting for GRTC service to resume. An hour later, she wrote, “I saw people in wheelchairs shivering, curled up in fetal positions freezing with no covering, people walk ing aimlessly with no understanding of the dangers of this temperature drop. I’m literally at the end of my rope.”

Ms. Sneed stated that one woman cried “when we draped a blanket over her and handed her a hat, gloves and already warm hand-warmers.” She stated the woman told her “I’m so cold I thought I was going to die.”

Ms. Sneed wrote that she saw no

evidence of the homeless task force the Stoney administration has boasted conducts outreach to those who need shelter.

She stated that she refused to stay silent about the wrongs she felt the city is com mitting against the most vulnerable. “I’m not shaming the city,” she wrote, “the city is shaming itself.”

In her view the shelter opening “was done to get the eyes off the current mess city officials have created.”

Ms. Lynch, a social worker by profes sion, summed up the problem: “We are not meeting our moral obligation” to the most vulnerable city residents.

At her committee and at a separate com mittee meeting this week, she vented her frustration that both the mayor and council colleagues have ignored the current needs in favor of investing $77 million into building and renovating community centers.

“I wish I had a $20 million community center coming to my district that I could give up,” she said.

Ms. Lynch expressed concern about the potential explosion of homelessness among the families who have fallen far behind in paying rent and utility bills that she sees as only increasing demand for shelter.

Hana Mills, who has been living on the streets with her fiance, told VPM public radio that there is no place to turn.

“It’s been freezing cold lately,” Ms. Mills said. “They just want to shove us down under the rug and pretend like we don’t exist. But we do. And there’s so many of us.”

Tax revenue casinos may top $190M in 5 years

Continued from A1

That new revenue, though, is projected to be less than if just Richmond or just Petersburg had a casino, according to the study — a key reason that advocates in both cities are still hoping to eliminate the competition.

“We’re pleased that the facts presented in the study reaffirm Richmond as the best choice for a Central Virginia casino,” Mayor Levar M. Stoney stated after the study was released by the General Assembly’s Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission.

According to the study, a Richmond casino would be a bigger draw than one in Petersburg or in the four other cities.

State Sen. Joseph D. “Joe Morrissey, who currently represents Richmond and Petersburg and is now advocating for Petersburg to replace Richmond, opposes the two casino-scenario.

He said acceptance would reduce the size and scope of the casino-resorts that could be developed in either city. “They would cannibalize each other,” he said.

Richmond is still listed as one of the five cities that the legislature approved for casinos. But its grip on that spot weakened dramatically after city voters in 2021 narrowly rejected the $560 million casino development the city’s proposed operator, Black media owner Urban One, had planned.

After the election results came in, Pe tersburg immediately jumped in to start a campaign to win legislative support to take Richmond’s spot.

The Cockade City did so, as the Free Press has reported based on source infor mation, after a representative from the Cockade City consulted Mayor Stoney a day after the casino’s defeat and found he was uninterested in a second referen

dum and had no objections and was even encouraging about Petersburg seeking to become the Central Virginia location.

Petersburg has been rushing to get ready. Tuesday the Petersburg City Council voted to name the real estate developer and casino owner Cordish Companies of Maryland as its preferred choice to de velop and operate a casino. Cordish had competed for the Richmond site, but lost out to Urban One.

Based on the study, the legislature could punt a decision and allow each city to hold a referendum in November 2023 when all state Senate and House of Delegate seats will be on the ballots, as well.

If Richmond voters turn around and approve the casino on a second vote and if Petersburg voters also endorse their city’s casino plan, then the legislature could make its final decision on whether one or both cities could move forward.

Masks now optional for RPS students

motion for the mask mandate to be lifted for all RPS schools, it did not pass. Prior to the vote, Superintendent Jason Kamras asked Mr. Young to amend the motion with language stipulating a return to wearing masks, if necessary, depending on CDC guidelines. Ms. Rizzi then introduced a motion to include Mr. Kamras’ suggested amendment, and it passed.

Protecting student health was not the only concern the School Board discussed Monday.

The district’s Digital Working Group presented data about student use of tech nology during the school day that includes private cell phones and devices and use of the web on laptops.

The School Board had directed the group to collect and analyze data, identify disruptions to learning and offer recom mendations. The district uses several tools to track student use and identify potentially harmful material students in which students may be exposed. In tracking student use, the group found that among the highest blocked sites were social media websites (Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook,etc.), gaming sites, and streaming services such as Netflix.

One of the monitoring programs, Gaggle, analyzes content generated by students to identify content, messages, documents and images that are potentially harmful, and divides the material into categories, such as self-harm, harassment and others.

Since the start of the 2022 school year, the software has generated 3,500 alerts, most of them involving middle and high school students, and falling under the category “violence towards others.” The data also indicated that students mostly use Google Chat to share and interact.

The group reported that “cell phone us age is a major distraction” during the school day, with students sometimes accessing sites that are blocked on their Chromebooks, but accessible on their cell phones.

It was recommended that the School Board purchase student account manage ment software, enact Google chat limita tions and educate parents and caregivers about digital safety protocols.

The report and recommendations received mixed reception from School Board members.

Kenya Gibson, 3rd District, said she had deep concern about student exposure to violent and suggestive content. Restric tions are necessary for student safety and

academic success, she said.

“When it comes to common sense, we have schools that are not accredited, and yet we have students watching Youtube for 4 ½ hours a day,” she said. “There has to be a way where we can do the bare minimum to ensure our students are able to safely navigate the web using a school provided device.” She introduced a motion calling upon the district to consider options for restricting student access.

Stephanie Rizzi, 5th District representa tive, said students need to be taught how to responsibly use and access media. She said she does not favor censorship and does not believe it works because children will figure a way to get to what they want, whether there are restrictions or not.

“We have to look at how to build that intrinsic motivation in our kids so they want to focus more on school than on their phones.”

The motion introduced by Ms. Gibson and passed by the School Board calls on Superintendent Kamras to research and present a report with options for limiting student access to platforms that expose them to violence, and ways cell phone use can be limited during the school day.

The report is due in January.

Efforts to rename the Lee Bridge rise again, bounded by slave-holding ties

Continued from A1

A council initiative to rename the bridge began two years ago, but languished since June 2020. Frustrated, Ms. Lynch took up the cause this summer and introduced legislation in September.

She had plenty of options, such as influential Richmonders past and present whose contributions would have been deserving of such high profile recognition. Or she could have chosen a generic name, such as The Bridge.

Ms. Lynch said she felt the name was appropriate. “I often hear people refer to

it as the Belvidere Bridge,” she said since the span connects on North Side with the section of U.S. 1 called Belvidere Street. Plus, she said the name is Italian and translates to “beautiful view.”

However, the name she chose turns out to be an English misspelling of the Italian word “belvedere,” which does translate to panoramic view.

And her choice also ignores the Rich mond history of the name, which refers to the plantation home and operation of William Byrd III, the son of Richmond’s founder, William Byrd II.

William Byrd III had the home built

in 1758 in what is now Oregon Hill and apparently named it Belvidere in honor of the view of the river that it commanded. The large, simply designed home stood just south of Pine and China streets, according to Charles Pool, a resident of Oregon Hill, who has researched the home.

What is known is that enslaved people were part and parcel of the operation of the home that William Byrd III occupied with his second wife and the eventual 10 children she bore him. And that continued to be the case after he committed suicide in 1777 as he faced huge debts he could not pay.

Continued from A1

By Leha Byrd

As a 14-year-old in Toronto, Canada, Jennifer Archibald was determined to get the autograph of Alvin Ailey Artistic Director Judith Jamison after seeing her with the world-famous troupe. She hung backstage for hours at the then-O’Keefe Centre, hoping that Ms. Jamison’s autobiography “Dancing Spirit,” a gift from her parents, would bear Ms. Jamison’s personal signature when she left.

‘Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner’ is coming to Richmond Ballet New York based choreographer wants to celebrate, ‘purity of love’

A backstage technician told Ms. Archibald the name of the hotel where Ms. Jamison was staying. Ms. Archibald went there and saw Ms. Jamison in the lobby. Not only did she get her book signed, but she received a chauffeured ride back to O’Keefe Centre and an indelible affirmation that she wanted to choreograph dance for the rest of her life.

Ms. Archibald, a graduate of the Alvin Ailey School, an act ing lecturer at Yale School of Drama and founder and artistic director of the Arch Dance Company, has been a professional dancer for 28 years. Her career spans New York to Brazil. On Nov. 1-6, the Richmond Ballet is hosting performances of “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner” choreographed by Ms. Archibald. The 1967 movie of the same name stars Sidney Poitier and Katharine Houghton as a couple braving an interracial relationship.

Ms. Archibald, the child of a white mother and a Black father, said her work to bring this story to the stage, through dance, is multifaceted.

“It’s about creating works that bring in a diverse audience and having audiences celebrate more than just the original clas sics,” she said. “Coming from an interracial relationship, the dynamics of that lifestyle crosses so many boundaries of love relationships.”

The movie and the muse

Ms. Archibald was introduced to the movie “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner” by her parents. Consequently, Mr. Poitier became one of her favorite actors whom she wanted to honor. That homage includes being particular about every aspect of her upcoming ballet piece, including soundtrack selection and dancer selection.

The Richmond Ballet has 20 professional dancers – 16 in the main company and four in Richmond Ballet II, the second company. Last March, during the New Works Festival, a shorter version of “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner” was performed at the building on E. Canal Street. After that, Ms. Archibald was approached about making the piece longer and developing a solid concept.

Earlier this month, Ms. Archibald rehearsed with the entire group before selecting the 10 dancers to perform, or be alter nates, for the actual November performances. Racial depictions

that mirror the storyline and consideration about how dancers perform not just ballet, but classical, modern, and street style dance was part of that process.

“I don’t come up with a pre plan (for dance moves). It’s an organic exchange,” she said.

The performance’s music selection was more of an intentional rhapsody.

Ms. Archibald considered as many as 175 songs that she narrowed down to six. They include music from soul singers such Donnie Hathaway and Sam Cooke. The songs are meant to capture the moment and the movement of both the dancers

Missy Elliott gets Portsmouth street named in her honor

Portsmouth native and hip-hop star Missy Elliott returned to her alma mater, Manor High School, Monday afternoon for the dedication ceremony of “Missy Elliott Boulevard.”

“757, 804, seven cities, I am so proud to be from Ports mouth, Va.,” Missy Elliott yelled into the mic to the hundreds of attendees on hand, which included her musical collabora tors and friends sitting in one of the front rows — Virginia native Pusha T, Trey Songz and Timbaland.

In August, the Portsmouth City Council voted to rename a 1-mile portion of McLean Street in honor of the five-time Grammy winner. Monday’s dedication ceremony featured Portsmouth Mayor Shannon Glover handing Missy Elliott a key to the city.

Aside from celebrity appearances, political officials were

also in attendance making key proclamations and provid ing honors. Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Congressman Bobby Scott presented proclamations to honor Missy Elliott and her accomplishments, and Portsmouth Mayor Shannon Glover presented her with a key to the city.

Gov. Youngkin also declared Oct. 17 as Missy Elliott Day. “As a native Virginian, she has inspired young women in the Commonwealth and beyond to pursue careers in the arts and music,” said Gov. Youngkin describing Missy Elliott. “She is the American dream!”

A Portsmouth Public Schools spokesperson told a news station that the ceremony’s location could accommodate 3,600 people, but so many fans came out that some, unfor tunately, had to be turned away. The next day, Oct. 18, the “Lose Control” artist was still appreciating all of the love. “ATTENTION! MISSY ELLIOTT BLVD is on the Google Map! #VA baybeeeeee #757 P-TOWN,” she tweeted.

and the time period the story is portraying. The late 1960s was wrought with civil rights tension, particularly in the South, and the era’s music spoke to those tribulations.

“We have to make sure the music goes with the setting,” Ms. Archibald said.

Also top of mind for Ms. Archibald as she choreographs are the current social issues that challenge relationships, such as same-sex marriage and family structures. She hopes to tap into that element, too.

“I’m watching friends around me be brave and how they fall in love with who they want to fall in love with,” she said.

“When people hear, “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner” they may think (this is) a literal replica, but it’s really about having an audience member think about the struggles and challenges of unconventional relationships.”

Balanced Ballet

The Richmond Ballet has six productions a year and its Stu dio Theatre seats 250 people. Throughout the year, there’s also community engagement opportunities, including the Minds in Motion program that serves elementary students through dance, classroom curriculum, community partnerships, and professional performances, according to the Richmond Ballet website.

Having Ms. Archibald’s full production be fully realized after hosting a taste of it earlier this year during the New Works Festi val is representative of “our artists and for our time,” Richmond Ballet Artistic Director Stoner Winslett said.

“We’re so excited to welcome Jennifer Archibald, an important voice in the world of dance, back to Richmond,” she said. “The mission of Richmond Ballet is to awaken, uplift, and unite hu man spirits through the power of dance, and we can’t wait for our audiences to experience her powerful world premiere, Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner.”

Ms. Archibald moved from Toronto to New York to pursue dance professionally. She credits her parents with giving her the confidence needed to go after her career.

“You’re always aware, as a Black person, when you’re walking into white spaces,” Ms. Archibald said. “My parents had to talk to me about not walking with blinders on and being gracious to people. It was a good balance.”

Ms. Archibald has been asked how she plans to conclude the piece, from an emotional standpoint. The “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner” work will last approximately 30 minutes. In the actual movie, the parents of both main characters accept their children’s relationship.

“It’s about celebrating the purity of love … it can definitely win,” she said.

Tickets may be purchased at etix.com or by calling the Rich mond Ballet Box Office at 804.344.0906, extension 224.

Ye to buy conservative social media platform Parler

By Michelle Chapman and Barbara Ortutay The Associated Press

The rapper formerly known as Kanye West is offering to buy right-wing friendly social network Parler shortly after getting locked out of Twitter and Instagram for antisemitic posts.

The acquisition of Parler would give Ye control of a social media platform and a new outlet for his opinions with no gatekeeper. The question is, who will listen?

Even among the new breed of largely rightwing, far-right and libertarian social apps that purport to support free speech by having looser rules and moderation, Parler’s user base is tiny — and with competition only increasing for the relatively small swath of mostly older people who want to discuss politics online, there is no clear roadmap to growing it beyond a niche platform chasing crumbs left by mainstream social media.

If Tesla CEO Elon Musk goes through with his planned purchase of Twitter, things may get even more complicated for Parler. That’s because Mr. Musk already has made it

because they were kicked off — return, sites like Parler, Gab and Trump’s Truth Social could end up losing users.

Parlement Technologies, which owns Parler, and Ye said Monday the acquisition should be completed in the fourth quarter, but the price and other details were not disclosed. Parlement Technologies said the agreement includes the use of private cloud services via Parlement’s private cloud and data center infrastructure.

Parler restructured its business last month to form Parlement Technologies, which it said aims to become the “world’s premier free speech technology infrastructure and platform.” This means that rather than running a single platform such as Parler, the company wants to provide services to other niche sites that are often deemed too extreme for mainstream tech companies to support. A Parlement spokesper son said the deal with West was not yet in the works when the company was restructured and the two transactions are separate.

Ye was blocked from posting on Twitter and Instagram a week ago over antisemitic posts that the social networks said violated their poli

cies. In one post on Twitter, Ye said he would soon go “death con 3 on JEWISH PEOPLE,” according to internet archive records, making an apparent reference to the U.S. defense readiness condition scale known as DEFCON.

Ye also has suggested slavery was a choice and called the COVID-19 vaccine the “mark of the beast.” Earlier this month, he was criticized for wearing a “White Lives Matter” T-shirt to his collection at Paris Fashion Week.

“In a world where conservative opinions are considered to be controversial we have to make sure we have the right to freely express ourselves,” Ye said in a prepared statement.

Parler has struggled amid competition from other conservative-friendly platforms like Truth Social, which are tiny as well compared with mainstream social media sites. Parler had an average of 725,000 monthly active users in the U.S. for the first half of this year, according to Data.ai, which tracks mobile app usage. That’s down from 5.2 million in the first half of 2021. Overall, including people outside the U.S., Parler still failed to reach the 1 million mark in the first half of this year.

clear he would like to loosen Twitter’s rules and content-moderation efforts, including reinstating the account of former President Trump. If the libertarian and far-right users who left Twitter — either because they felt it was constricting to their political views or

Free Press wire report

PORTSMOUTH

Photos by Randy Singleton

Regina H. Boone/ Richmond Free Press

Choreographer Jennifer Archibald, left, leads a rehearsal for her upcoming “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” at the Richmond Ballet. The performance will open in Studio Two on Nov. 1 and run through Nov. 6.

Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/The Associated Press Ye, formerly known as Kanye West is offering to buy right-wing friendly social network Parler after being booted off Twitter and Instagram.

Ms. Archibald

Halloween, Hype and Herschel

Halloween is just around the corner but many among us have been up to the same old tricks all year long, particularly in terms of politics.

This year’s highly anticipated midterm elections have brought out all sorts of antics displayed by politicians and elected officials who no longer bother to disguise themselves in costumes bearing good tidings.

By now, many of you are familiar with Herschel Junior Walker, who, seemingly out of nowhere, decided to seek-and-win the Republican nomination for the 2022 United States Senate election in Georgia. Before he resurfaced as a politician, the former NFL running back and Heisman Trophy winner was pretty much considered a has-been by most standards.

Herschel who?

Yet, even after Mr. Walker opened his mouth, many of his Republican backers continued to lavish his celebrity status stoked with good, old-fashioned Georgia conservatism.

They ignored Mr. Walker’s past, which included violence against women and being a deadbeat father. They turned the other cheek when he questioned the theory of evolution by saying, “If man descended from apes, why are there still apes?”

What?!!

Mr. Walker also has questioned President Biden’s cli mate change policies, reports the Washington Post.

“Don’t we have enough trees around here?” Sound ing eerily close to former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin’s opine about Russia, Mr. Walker then “explained” how Georgia’s “good air decides to float over” to China, replacing China’s “bad air,” which goes back to Georgia, where “we got to clean that back up.”

Where is Tina Fey when we need her to jerk this man (and country) back to its senses?

A more recent revelation regarding Mr. Walker’s “character” involves a woman who says he paid for her abortion in 2009. Nothing revolutionary about that statement except that Mr. Walker has made it clear during his campaign against Sen. Ralph Warnock (DGeorgia) that he wants to completely ban abortion, which he compares to murder. According to the Daily Beast, he believes there should be no exceptions, even for rape, incest or the life of the mother.

What a Neanderthal.

Mr. Walker, of course, swiftly denied the accusa tion, as did, perhaps, many of his supporters, who likely chalked up the finger pointing to dirty politics getting dirtier as Nov. 8 draws near.

“Confronted on Sunday with receipts that appear to prove he paid for the abortion of a woman he once dated, staunch anti-abortionist Herschel Walker – Georgia’s Republican candidate for the U.S. Sen ate – had a ready response: “It’s a lie,” reports the Guardian, which notes that Mr. Walker recently gave that response to NBC News.

No doubt many Republicans are worried that they may have gone too far in choosing a political novice who looks good on paper but, when you peel back the layers, all you’re left with is dead wood.

Sigh.

For a while, Mr. Walker’s tightening race against Sen. Warnock was reassuring to his Republican back ers who applauded themselves for picking a celebrity with appeal to the mostly white males who dominate the Republican party in Georgia, and possibly Black men who live and die for football, and for Latino males who admire Donald Trump’s “machismo” and would probably show the same admiration for a Heis man Trophy winner.

Alas, Mr. Walker’s blundering missteps surrounding the ex-girlfriend’s abortion seem to have misfired.

Varying polls once showed Mr. Walker within 2 or 3 percentage points either ahead or behind Sen. War nock. An Oct. 12 Quinnipiac University poll shows incumbent Sen. Warnock leading Mr. Walker 52-45 percent among likely voters in Georgia.

Mr. Walker’s staunch supporters, including U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, now wonder what went wrong. Will the bewitching hours between now and 19 days resurrect Herschel’s image? We pray not.

Congratulations to the wonderfully talented Missy Elliott for having a street named after her this week in her hometown of Portsmouth. Flip it, reverse it, work it!

And Happy Birthday to Mrs. Rose Ann Perry Paker of Richmond, born Oct. 16, 1922, who celebrated her 100th birthday on Oct. 15 surrounded by six genera tions of children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and more!

Alabama’s defense of racially-gerrymandered districts defies logic

In its zeal to defend the racial ly discriminatory congressional districts state legislators created to dilute the political participa tion of their Black constituents, Alabama is making a mockery of the Constitution.

The solicitor general of Ala bama stood before the U.S. Supreme Court and put forth the argument that drawing congressional districts that give Black Americans fair representation would violate a provision of the Constitution intended to give Black Americans fair representation.

Specifically, Alabama con tends that the Voting Rights Act, which prohibits racial discrimi nation in voting, is in violation of the 14th Amendment, which was adopted to prevent racial discrimination under the law.

It’s hard to believe anyone with even a basic understanding of history, much less constitutional law, could voice this fallacy with a straight face. Even worse, some of the justices appear willing to accept it, further dismantling the protections of the Voting Rights Act in the process.

In a pointed series of re sponses to Alabama Solicitor General Edmund LaCour, newly-

invested Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson demolished his absurd claim “that it is unconstitutional to consider race when addressing racial discrimination” as legal commentator Peter Shamshiri wrote, and provided a sorely needed history lesson.

“The entire point of the [14th] Amendment was to secure rights of the freed former slaves,” she said. “The legislator who intro

Marc H. Morial

duced that amendment said that ‘unless the Constitution should restrain them, those states will all, I fear, keep up this discrimi nation and crush to death the hated freedmen.’ That’s not a race-neutral or race-blind idea in terms of the remedy.

“When there was a concern that the Civil Rights Act [of 1866] wouldn’t have a constitutional foundation, that’s when the 14th Amendment came into play,” Justice Brown Jackson noted. “It was drafted to give a foundational, a constitutional foundation for a piece of legislation that was de signed to make people who had less opportunity and less rights equal to white citizens.”

As states are required to do following each decennial Cen sus, Alabama last year redrew its congressional districts in blatant violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which

prohibits any standard, practice or procedure that results in a “denial or abridgment of the right of any citizen of the United States to vote on account of race or color.”

Alabama’s map both splits Black communities among two or more districts so they don’t constitute a majority in any of them – a process known as “cracking” – and crams Black voters into one district so they can’t influence the outcome in other districts – a process known as “packing.”

Black Alabamians, who make up 27 percent of the state’s popu lation, wound up with a majority in a single district out of seven, whittling their representation to about 14 percent. A federal court ordered the state in January to redraw the map “to include two districts in which Black voters either comprise a voting-age majority or something quite close to it.”

The Supreme Court in Feb ruary put the order on hold, allowing elections to proceed according to the gerrymandered districts, and postponing argu ments until this week.

NAACP Legal Defense Fund Attorney Deuel Ross, who de fended the lower court’s ruling before the Supreme Court, said, “There is nothing race-neutral about Alabama’s map. The dis trict court’s unanimous and thor

Calling out global anti-Blackness

In Los Angeles, City Coun cil President Nury Martinez resigned both her council presi dency and later her seat after someone leaked vile racist sentiments that she shared with members of a Latinx cabal that included other council mem bers, Kevin de Leon and Gil Cedillo.

Also pres ent was the now-resigned president of the Los An geles County Federation of Labor, Ron Her rera. As of this writing, de Leon and Cedillo retain their seats, but Ms. Martinez’s goose was cooked when President Joe Biden, Gov. Gavin Newsom, and dozens of others condemned Ms. Martinez’s racist comments and those who concurred with them with their silence.

While I am glad that Ms. Martinez is gone, I am not so sure that her resignation is quite a victory. In resigning, she ad dressed “little Latina girls” and said, “I hope I’ve inspired you to dream beyond that which you can see.” What did she hope to inspire them to become?

Racist like herself? If she is an inspiration, I am fearful.

Disgraced politicians often go on to teach at universities, establish policy institutes or men toring programs, or find lucrative jobs in private industry. While everyone deserves a second chance and nobody deserves to be outright canceled, apologies and resignations mean nothing if there is no honest accounting of what was wrong and if there is no remediation.

Ms. Martinez seems to lack

the capacity to recognize what she did wrong and to correct it. Thus, anyone who hires her, offers her an award, or lifts her up is as racist as she is until and unless she provides more than tepid apologies and selfjustifying resignations.

Nury Martinez is Hydra, and Greek mythology describes

Hydra as a many-headed serpent Hercules beheaded only to have two more heads replace it. Ms. Martinez and other racists can resign, but the tragedy of her hope that she “inspired” little Latina girls set the stage for other Hydras, some younger, some more subtle, to replace her. Hercules finally killed the Hydra snake with a burning torch.

The same torch that killed the mythological snake must destroy the structures that support global anti-Blackness. One or two, or even five or 10, resignations are not enough. Dismantling anti-Black structures is the only way to eliminate them.

Too many embrace antiBlackness and anti-Black struc tures. Consider Alabama’s Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who shame fully described Democrats as “pro-crime” because they support reparations.

“They want reparation be cause they think the people that do the crime are owed that.” It is tempting to say that Mr. Tu berville, a former football coach, too often played his sport without a helmet. Was the entire Repub lican Party engaging in the same foolhardiness? Where are the Republicans of conscience (are there any?) calling Mr.Tuberville on his foolishness?

In contrast, President Biden, perhaps risking some Latinx sup port, swiftly called Ms. Martinez on her racism.

As President Biden’s press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, said, “Here is the difference between Democrats and Repub licans. When a Democrat says something racist or antisemitic, we hold Democrats accountable. When a MAGA Republican says something racist and or antisemitic, they are embraced by cheering crowds and become celebrated and sought after.”

One of the ways we combat global anti-Blackness is to name it, then claim it, then dismantle it. Too many white allies are re luctant to discuss anti-Blackness, much less work to dismantle it. Too many squirm when antiBlack racism is mentioned. It’s too much for some to discuss in “polite society” but not too much to practice.

One of the most uncomfort able conversations comes when our “allies,” the Latinx folks eager to tout “Black and Brown” coali tions when it strengthens their base are far less willing to combat the cracks in the foundation of the base. Our Latinx allies must condemn folks like Ms. Martinez (and some have), whose spoken anti-Blackness (she called a Black child a monkey!) is only dwarfed by the things they do, not just the things they say.

Global anti-Blackness stops when people of conscience, regardless of political party, call people out. Until then, the Nury Martinezes of the world, whether in elective office or not, win be cause Hydra’s head will multiply unless it is burned off.

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

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.

ough intensely local analysis did not err in finding that the Black Belt is a historic and extremely poor community of substantial significance. Yet, Alabama’s map cracks that community and al lows white block voting to deny Black voters the opportunity to elect representation responsive to their needs.”

The Supreme Court’s conser vative majority includes three of the five justices who struck down Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act in 2013 via Shelby County v. Holder, plus three nominated in the following presidential term. They may not be swayed by Justice Jackson’s eloquent refutation of Alabama’s argument to uphold the lower court’s ruling — although decency and the law dictate that they should — but they may be more likely to overturn it with a narrow ruling that does not completely gut Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.

The writer is president and CEO of the National Urban League.

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Police Chief Gerald Smith issues statement on weekend gun violence

The Richmond Police De partment worked throughout the weekend following up on numerous leads and investi gating the crimes of violence perpetrat ed within our com munity this week end (Oct. 14-16).

Between Friday and Sun day, Richmond reported eight shooting incidents, with two of them fatal, and another 10 adults injured as a result of senseless gun violence. This is a stark reminder that guns are not the solution. “As a community, we must find more constructive ways of resolving conflict with each other,” stated Chief Gerald Smith.

RPD will continue to address violence wherever we find it, and we continue to ask our public, “If you see something,

say something.” Anonymous tips are always welcomed.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones

also may be used.

All Crime Stoppers report ing methods are anonymous. If the information is valuable to the investigation, you may be eligible to receive a cash reward.

Fall Line Trail Northern Section Design Public Hearing

Tuesday, November 15, 2022, 5 7 p.m.

Elmont Elementary School Gymnasium 12007 Cedar Lane, Ashland, Virginia 23005

Inclement weather dates: Thursday, November 17, 2022, 5 7 p.m. VDOT Richmond Di strict Office, 2430 Pine Forest Drive, South Chesterfield, Virginia 23834.

Come see the proposed plans for the northernmost section of the Fall Line Trail. The proposed project includes the development of 4.8 miles of a shared use path that will connect the proposed Longdale section of the Fall Line Trail in Henrico County to the existing Trolley Line Trail in the Town of Ashland following along the historic Richmond Ashland Trolley line corridor The Fall Line Trail

Northern Section design has been developed following two Location Public Hearings that were held in May 2022

Property impact information, relocation assistance policies and tentative construction schedules will be available for your review at the public hearing.

Review meeting materials and give your input on the proposed design of the Fall Line Trail Northern Section, extending from the Town of Ashland to just south of the Chickahominy River The planned improvements include the development of a ten foot wide shared use path with two foot graded shoulders on each side.

Give your written or oral comments at the hearing or submit them no later than November 30, 2022, to Mr. Roy Soto, P.E., P.M.P., Virginia Department of Transportation c/o Fall Line Trail, 2430 Pine Forest Drive, Colonial Heights, VA 23834 or email them to FallLine@VDOT.Virginia.gov Please reference “Fall Line Trail Northern Section Design Public Hearing” in the subject line.

VDOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employme nt in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you need special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact the project manager listed above.

State Project Number: 9999 166 294, P101, R201, C501 (UPC 121374)

State Project Number: 9999 964 016, P101, R201, C501 (UPC 119599)

From: 0.2 mi South of Winfrey Road in Henrico County To: Route 657 (Ashcake Road) in Town of Ashland

2022 BOND REFERENDUM

Election Day: Tuesday, Nov.

Early in-person voting: Now through Saturday, Nov.

Henrico voters will consider whether to fund more than $511 million in county capital projects as part of this fall’s general election.

e 2022 bond referendum will feature four questions,

Early in-person voting locations:

Government Center, 3820 Nine Mile Road

Western Government Center, 4301 E. Parham Road

Area Library, 1875 New Market Road

beginning Monday, Oct. 24)

ballot drop box locations:

Government Center : Western Government Center : Varina Area Library

Deep Run Recreation Center, 9900 Ridge eld Parkway Tuckahoe Area Library, 1901 Starling Drive Scan this code to:

· See a map of proposed project locations

· Review a sample ballot with the referendum questions

· View descriptive videos

· Get details about voting, proposed projects and more

Chief Smith

henrico.us/bonds

Nurses often ask patients “how much does it hurt on a scale of one to 10?”

For Virginia State University, the answer might be “10 and a half, at least,” in terms of the pain felt from its most recent football loss.

As losses go, this one hurt with a capital “H.”

After going ahead with 52 seconds left, the Trojans couldn’t hold on and lost 43-40 at Chowan. The homecoming Hawks scored the game winner with 25 ticks left on the Murfreesboro, N.C., clock.

It was a costly defeat for Coach Henry Frazier’s Trojans, who fall to 4-3 overall and 3-2 in CIAA.

With a victory, VSU would still be in position to win the Northern Division. Instead, the Trojans are left with trying to finish 7-3 and a more than double last year’s paltry win total of three.

VSU’s latest loss (its second in a row after four straight wins) came despite 431 yards total offense, 23 first downs, and a valiant comeback from a 28-12 halftime hole.

Jordan Davis passed for 301 yards and two TDs with Roy Jack son making three receptions for 73 yards and a TD. Defensively, Willie Drew latched on to his fifth interception of the season.

VSU will travel to struggling Elizabeth City on Saturday with a grimace on its face. Then comes a trip to Lincoln and next is its traditional, last-game-of-season scrap against Virginia Union at Rogers Stadium.

VSU cannot win the CIAA title, but it could possibly thwart VUU’s efforts in the grand finale. For Trojans, that might ease the pain from the heartbreaker at Chowan. But there are some losses you just never get completely over.

By Jeremy M. Lazarus

Richmond boxing phenom Jermoine Royster boosted his pro boxing record to 3-0 with a third round TKO in his most recent bout.

Known for his hammering fists, Royster easily defeated North Carolinian Alfred Moss Jr., who made his pro debut in the featured welterweight bout Oct.

SCRATCH

Fans, and others, can’t help ignore Jackson State’s winning ways

Jackson State is having per haps its greatest football season on the field and at the ticket booth, but how good is Coach Deion Sanders’ third edition of the Tigers?

We’ll never know for sure.

“Coach Prime’s” SWAC squad is 6-0 and ranked No. 7 in the weekly NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) poll. No other HBCU is in the Top 25. There are 128 schools in the FCS, including William & Mary (ranked 13th) and Richmond (25th).

Folks all over are taking notice. The Mississippi school is a huge draw, home and away, averaging 42,293 attendees per opening.

JSU excels at halftime, too, with its Sonic Boom of the South matching band and Prancing J-Settes dancers.

The flamboyant Coach Prime,

an NFL Hall of Famer, has been interviewed live on NBC’s “To day” show and ABC’s “Good Morning America.”

Jackson State has drawn added exposure the last couple of years with Coach Prime beating out traditional football powers for premier prospects.

The Tigers are the likely favorites to win the SWAC for a second year in a row and the Celebration Bowl against the MEAC champ. JSU lost to South Carolina State in last year’s Celebration Bowl.

But that’s the end of it. The SWAC and MEAC, the two Division I (FCS) Black con ferences, have passed on the NCAA playoffs for the fame and fortune of the nationally televised Celebration Bowl in Atlanta on Dec. 17.

The 24-team FCS playoffs start Nov. 26 and conclude Jan.

Earning their stripes

Team, Score, Team Score Location Attendance JSU 59, Florida A&M 3 Miami 39,907 JSU 16, Tennessee State 3 Memphis, Tenn. 51,351 JSU 66, Grambling 24 Jackson, Miss. 34,451 JSU 49, Mississippi Valley 7 Jackson, Miss. 28,265 JSU 26, Alabama State, 12 Montgomery 28,332 JSU 48, Bethune-Cookman 8 Jacksonville 22,373

Next: Oct. 22 – (Homecoming) Campbell (N.C.) at JSU, 2 p.m. ESPN-Plus

8. SWAC and MEAC teams will not be included, by their own choice. Jackson State was 0-12 in FCS playoffs between 1978 and 1997.

No matter how powerful these Tigers are, football fans will be left in the dark about how they stack up with the nation’s best, such as perennial FCS powers North and South Dakota State and Sam Houston,

Texas.

Football fans would love to see JSU matched with in-state FBS schools Mississippi and Mississippi State and, better yet, with Coach Prime’s alma mater, Florida State.

The most successful HBCU team of all time, based on NCAA playoffs, was the 1978 Florida A&M Rattlers that won the very first FCS title.

VUU delivers heart-thumping 27-24 win over Bowie Brady Myers’ skills kick in for Panthers

There’s a new sheriff in town in the CIAA North.

It wears Maroon and Steel and has its GPS set for Salem, Va., (site of the CIAA championship game) … and beyond.

Virginia Union is snug in the driver’s seat following its overtime 27-24 heart-pounding win at Bowie State, but there is still much traffic to be negotiated en route.

Off to its best start since 1990, Coach Alvin Parker’s (aka “Dr. Coach”) Pan thers are 7-0 and feeling their friskiest in decades.

The Northsiders were ranked 11th in last week’s NCAA Division II poll and, barring a serious misstep, on track for its first trip to Salem and a long-overdue invitation to the NCAA playoffs.

Story lines aplenty:

Bye-bye Bowie: The Bulldogs had defeated VUU in each of Coach Parker’s first three seasons, and were clearly the class of CIAA (advancing to 2021 NCAA quarterfinals), until now.

Bowie had not lost at home since 2016, and had not lost on home turf against a CIAA opponent since 2014.

Maybe it’s time to turn the page.

Record pace: With 277 rushing yards at Bowie, ball carrier extraordinaire Jada Byers now has a CIAA and NCAA-best 1,373 yards on the season.

With at least three games left, Byers is likely to catch Andre Braxton as the Panthers’ all-time leader. Braxton gained 1,660 in in 2000.

Clearing the way: Known as “The Movin’ Van,” VUU’s interior blockers deserve much of the credit for Byers’ continued brilliance.

Byers lovingly calls them “the best front five in the nation.” They are Brian Gibson, Justin Meade, Mark Lawton, Larry Jones

and Darian Bryant.

The quintet also provides ample pro tection for VUU quarterback Jahkari Grant. That means time to spiral the ball to game-breaking re ceiver John Jiles, who has 22 catches averag ing 15 yards and good for five TDs.

Hold your breath: VUU doesn’t have Tom Brady on its roster, so Brady Myers will have to do.

The freshman from Orlando kicked the game winning 42-yard field goal as time expired in OT. Neither Myers, snapper Miles Solomon nor Marvin Holmes ever flinched with the game – and possibly season – at stake.

And they had to do it twice. Bowie called timeout an instant before Myers made it the first time. The second kick was an instant replay of the first. Myers, the fourth-ranked high school

kicker in the nation according to NKR (National Kicking Rankings), missed a 43-yard field goal on the final play of the first half.

As the team headed for the locker room, many of the Panthers consoled Myers with taps on his helmet and shoulder pads, and kind words of support.

Myers, among the few white players to ever have a prominent role at VUU, was their teammate and friend, and they knew they would need him later.

And did they ever?

Big numbers, big men: VUU’s No. 99 (Ronald Johnson, 6-foot-4, 290) and No. 97 (Isaac Anderson, 6-foot-3, 270) are impressive run stoppers and quarterback pursuers smack dab in the middle of the defensive line.

Set your dial: It was second straight week that VUU was televised live on BCSBN (Black College Sports Broad cast Network). That’s a rare opportunity for Division II schools and the Panthers weren’t blinded by the lights.

Now what? Panthers will be heavily favored this Saturday at Lincoln. Then comes a home date with Chowan (still with a chance to win the Northern Divi sion) and at Virginia State, which would love to drop a thunderstorm on VUU’s parade. The CIAA championship is Nov. 13 at Salem Stadium.

Finishing kick: After Myers split the uprights with the game winner, he took off running toward the middle of the field, zigzagging, ducking behind a bench, doing his best Jada Byers’ get-away impersonation.

His jubilant teammates chased and chased before finally running him down, lifting him off his feet, and carrying him on their shoulders.

8 at Liberation Church on South Side.

More than 600 people were on hand to view Royster extend his winning streak, along with the five other matches on the card.

The son of longtime boxing coach Jerry Royster, the young boxer is now preparing for his next match in early November in Morgantown, W.Va., in his quest to break into the ranks of title contenders.

Stories by Fred Jeter

Brady Myers

Trojans lose to Hawks 43-40 After falling to Chowan, VSU’s recovery won’t be easy

Personality: Kimberly M. Jennings

Spotlight on board president of the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation

For the last five years, Kim berly M. Jennings has been a key part in providing life-saving resources and support for tens of thousands of Virginians who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

A native of Lynchburg, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in August of 2014, leading her to seek treatment and support. One of the groups that provided support and im portant resources during and after her journey to recovery was the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation.

Three years later, with her cancer in remission, she became a volunteer with VBCF’s advo cacy and education unit.

“As a breast cancer survivor, I was looking for a way to give back to the breast cancer com munity,” she recalls. In addition to the resources VBCF provided her, Mrs. Jennings was im pressed with the organization’s responsiveness and mission.

The feeling apparently was mutual because soon after becoming a volunteer, Mrs. Jennings was asked to serve on VBCF’s board.

Today, as VBCF’s board pres ident, Mrs. Jennings is a leading advocate for the nonprofit orga nization that was established in 1991 by five women who were angered “by the lack of progress in breast cancer treatment and inspired by a growing network of grassroots advocates across the country.

“Our goals are to establish the end of breast cancer as a state and national priority, to advo cate for the collective needs of people affected by breast cancer, and to educate all Virginians on the facts about breast cancer,” the organization states.

VBCF’s website cites these 2022 statistics for breast can cer:

• 276,480 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer;

• 42,170 U.S. women will die from breast cancer;

• 2,620 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer;

• 520 men will die from breast cancer;

• 7,410 women in Virginia will be diagnosed with breast cancer;

• 1,140 women will die from breast cancer.

Knowing the work necessary to combat such statistics and outcomes, Mrs. Jennings was eager to do her part.

“I was honored and humbled when asked to become board president,” she says. “I felt that my experience both as a cancer survivor and as a positive leader could have an impact on the work and direction of the organization.”

The effects of COVID-19 on health matters for many have been deeply felt, and breast can cer and VBCF are no exception. Like many organizations, VBCF switched from in-person efforts and events to virtual options at

VBCF’s reach to underserved regions in the state. It also is developing a three- to five-year strategy to meet the future needs of breast health care.

VBCF’s continuing work to eradicate breast cancer includes advocating for improved public policies related to breast cancer and health care access. VBCF monitors and tracks legislation at the state and federal levels, and mobilizes and train volun teers throughout the state.

In addition, VBCF’s breast cancer advocacy days en able volunteers to meet with their legislators in the Virginia General Assembly and in the U.S. Congress to discuss how to improve policies related to breast cancer, according to VBCF’s website.

“I am excited about the cur rent expansion of the organiza tion’s reach across Virginia,” Ms. Jennings says. “My hope is that the board will develop a robust plan that will direct and focus VBCF’s efforts to have the most significant impact in underserved communities across the state.”

Meet a leader who is working to eradicate breast cancer in Virginia and this week’s Person ality, Kimberly M. Jennings:

Volunteer position: VBCF board president. Date and place of birth: July 17 in Lynchburg.

Where I live now: Maidens.

Occupation: Senior manager with the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired.

Education: Bachelor’s in so ciology, University of Rich mond; master’s in rehabilita tion, Virginia Commonwealth University.

Family: Married with one adult son.

Virginia Breast Cancer Foun dation (VBCF) is: A statewide, Richmond-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to the eradi cation of breast cancer through education and advocacy.

When and why founded: VBCF was founded in 1991 by five women who met in an MCV support group. They were frustrated by the lack of progress in breast cancer treatment and inspired by a growing network of grassroots advocates across the country.

Founders: VBCF was founded by Phoebe Antrim, Judi Ellis, Patti Goodall, Mary Jo Kahn, and Sherry Kohlenberg (de ceased).

Current goals: Our goals are to establish the end of breast cancer as a state and national priority, to advocate for the collective needs of people affected by breast can cer in Virginia, and to educate all Virginians on the facts about breast cancer. We are currently undergoing strategic planning to figure out the best way for us to “meet the moment” when it comes to breast health care in

tion as the board president: I was honored and humbled when asked to become board president. This organization is important to me because of its statewide impact and the mis sion to eradicate breast cancer through advocacy and education.

I felt that my experience as a cancer survivor and as a positive leader could have an impact on the work and direction of the organization.

Number one goal as board president: I am excited about the current expansion of the organi zation’s reach across Virginia.

My hope is that the board will develop a robust plan that will direct and focus VBCF’s efforts to have the most significant impact in underserved com munities across the state.

VBCF’s No. 1 challenge: Our number one challenge is pri oritizing the needs of Virginia’s breast cancer community. Vir ginia is a large state with wealthy and poor, urban and rural, wide ethnic backgrounds, educated and not. There are many differ ent pockets of need across the state at different stages of the breast cancer experience. We are trying to do as much as we can for as many people as we can while recognizing that we also have a small staff.

How we plan to meet it: Strate gic planning. The pandemic left a lot of organizations reeling, and we think now is an excel lent time to take stock of what our community looks like now and create a plan to address those needs.

Most important accomplish ment since VBCF was found ed: That’s so hard to pinpoint. We’ve had legislative successes, from requiring insurance to cover (breast) reconstruction to advocating for the “Let Doc tors Decide” bill on medical marijuana, and we’ve helped thousands of people with our educational resources. But we can’t do any of that without the unwavering commitment of our supporters — our volunteers and staff who have made this work possible for more than 30 years.

How VBCF reaches Black

and Brown communi ties: We do a lot of out reach and presentations in Black churches across the state (check out our Act Pink program), as well as connecting with sororities. We’ve also had multiple resources trans lated into Spanish. Behind the scenes, we work with other cancer organizations to keep health equity con versations and policies at the forefront.

Health disparities that affect Black people and breast cancer: Black women have about the same risk of developing breast cancer as white women, maybe a little less, but the mortality rate is 40 percent higher.

Black women are more likely to experience a delay between screening and diagnosis and also between diagnosis and begin ning treatment. Black women also are more likely to be di agnosed at a younger age and with a more aggressive form of breast cancer that doesn’t have any targeted treatments: triplenegative breast cancer.

Men with breast cancer and VBCF: We don’t forget about men with breast cancer! Our FREE Breast Health Brochures have a whole section on breast cancer in men, and we talk about it in every presentation we do. We also would love to get more male breast cancer survivors involved with our organization, so please reach out!

How to deal with a breast cancer diagnosis: Dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis is different for everyone. For me, obtaining current and reliable information on the diagnosis and treatment options was key. Every breast cancer diagnosis is different. Do not be afraid to ask questions and get second opinions. In addition, talking

with others who have had a similar experience helps you learn more about what you don’t know and what additional things to question. But most importantly, I found that I had to trust my medical team and trust the process.

Importance of family sup port: For me, family support made all the difference in my outlook and coping skills. I was very fortunate to have a supportive husband who was my anchor through the process, and also extended family and friends who walked the walk with me.

Importance of emotional wellness: The breast cancer experience is challenging on many levels for everyone. It is important to seek out support to cope with your feelings that may range from disbelief to anger to sadness and despair.

There are many ways to find support through in-person sup port groups, on-line forums and groups, and one-to-one counseling. VBCF can help find the right type of support for an individual’s unique situation.

Major way of promoting well ness and healing by VBCF is: Encouraging people to trust their knowledge of their own bodies and advocate for themselves with their health care providers.

VBCF partners with: The VCU Massey Cancer Center, UVA Cancer Center, Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia, American Cancer Society, Women of Es sence, Richmond Pride, Sister’s Network, and many others.

People can get involved with VBCF : Join our advocacy email list, become an educa tion volunteer, sew “comfort pillows” for us to distribute to Virginians newly diagnosed with breast cancer, and many other ways. Contact us for more

ways to help!

How I start the day: I like to start my day with a cup of peppermint tea and about 15 minutes of playing on my phone. Ideally, that is followed by 15 minutes of yoga during the week or a nice long outdoor walk on the weekends. All of these activities help to get me centered and focused for the day ahead.

A perfect day for me is: In the mountains or at the beach soaking up the sunshine and atmosphere around me. Any time I am at either location is a perfect day, regardless of the weather!

Something I love to do that most people would never imagine: I love to hike and play pickleball! My hikes range from easy 3-mile urban hikes to 8 to 9-mile mountain hikes. I plan to participate in VBCF’s Pink 13.1 event and walk 13.1 miles on Oct. 22.

A quote that I am inspired by: Carpe Diem! (Seize the Day!)

My friends describe me as: Cheerful, positive and sup portive.

At the top of my “to-do” list is: To travel more. I would like to go to Arizona, Washington state, and back to the Virgin Islands.

Best late-night snack: Mint chocolate chip ice cream!!

Best thing my parents taught me: Honor your commit ments.

Person who influenced me the most: My mother and father who both are amazing individuals!

Book that influenced me the most: “The Silver Lining” by Hollye Jacobs and Elizabeth Messina.

What I’m reading now: “Mad Honey” by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan.

Next goal: Identify other ways that I can further contribute to my community and develop a road map of activities for my future retirement.

of love and laughter

Starring Cynthia F. Carter, C. Kelly Wright, and Desirée Roots!

BY DOUGLAS LYONSBY DOUGLAS

Family celebrates matriarch’s centennial birthday

By Karyn Cook

Six generations of Rose Ann Perry Parker’s family celebrated her centennial birthday Oct. 15 at A Touch of Class Event Hall in Henrico County.

In addition to Mrs. Parker’s large, extended family, friends, for mer co-workers and church members of the Abundant Life Church of Christ came out for the 1970s-themed surprise party.

“They really surprised me; all I could do was cry,” Mrs. Parker said a few days after the event. “I was so happy to see family members that I had not seen for years.”

From her marriage to Aleck Parker in 1942, a union that lasted 40 years until his death in 1982, were born Willie Norris

Perry and Marie Annette Perry.

Mrs. Parker’s family now stretches six generations, with the youngest member being born a few weeks ago.

Mrs. Parker’s granddaughter-in-law, Carrie Caine, is married to Mrs. Parker’s grandson, Benjamin.

Mrs. Caine says Mrs. Parker is ageless.

“She still reads, her memory is still sharp, she loves crossword puzzles and will watch westerns five times over,” Mrs. Caine said. “She has a wonderful appetite, and she always looks for the positive.”

Mrs. Parker has lived with her grandson and Mrs. Caine for the past few years.

Plans for the party had been underway for several weeks.

“It was a lot of working, a lot of searching for the right place to have it; I enjoyed planning it,” Mrs. Caine said.

Mrs. Parker’s granddaughter, Rose Marie Caine Jones, who also helped plan the party, has detailed and loving memories of her grandmother growing up.

“I really enjoyed my time I spent with her at her house; she kept me from having to stay with a house full of boys,” she said, noting that she was the only girl among her mother’s (Marie Annette Perry’s) six children.

The eighth of Joshua and Betty Anderson Perry’s 11 children, Mrs. Parker was born in Nash County, N.C. on Oct. 16, 1922. Her family moved to Richmond in 1929. None of Mrs. Parker’s siblings is still living, although her mother, Betty Anderson Perry, lived to be 96.

Her best parenting advice is for parents and children to stay

When color struck the World Series

By Fred Jeter

Baseball’s World Series began in 1903 but it wasn’t until 1947 that Black athletes became a part of that so-called “World.”

From 1903 to 1946, the World Series was a whites-only celebration. That all changed in 1947 when Jackie Robinson broke the color line with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

As excitement builds for the 2022 Series, it’s time for a stroll down memory lane.

In the beginning: Robinson won Rookie of the Year in ’47 while helping Brooklyn reach the Series against its next borough neighbor, the New York Yankees.

Robinson and pitcher Dan Bankhead, who joined the Dodgers later that season, became the first Black athletes to suit up for a Series (other than the old Negro Leagues World Series).

Finally getting to shine on the brightest stage, Robinson went 7-for-30 with two doubles, two RBIs and two stolen bases as Brooklyn fell to the Yankees in seven games. Bankhead did not pitch in the Series, but he does have the title of being the first big league Black pitcher.

Robinson went on to play in the 1952, ’53, ’55 and ’56 Series with Brooklyn, winning just once, in ’55.

Ol’ Folks Home: Negro Leagues icon Satchel Paige was already 42 and well past his prime when he appeared in the 1948 Series for Cleveland.

Joining Paige with the Indians was outfielder Larry Doby, who had become the American League’s first black player in ’47.

Paige and Doby became the first Black athletes to play for a World Series winning team after downing the Boston Braves in six games. It was the last time Cleveland won the Series.

Doby went 7-for-22 and became the first Black to smash a World Series home run in ’48. Paige hurled just one inning in the ’48 Series but, defying age, continued to pitch in the big leagues until ’53.

Not your Average Joe: When Black Dodgers of the late ’40s/early ’50s are discussed, you mostly hear about Robinson, Roy Campanella and Don Newcombe.

Joe Black, a hero of the 1952 regular season and World Series, deserves to be in that same conversation.

In 1952, Black might have been the best pitcher in all of baseball, Black or white. The 6-foot-2, 220-pound righthander was 15-4 during the season with 15 saves and a 2.15 ERA. He was Rookie of Year and third in MVP voting.

In Game One of the Series, against the Yankees, Black became first African-American to register a pitching win 4-2. He was later the hard-luck loser in Game Four (2-0) and Game Seven (4-2).

The Series’ 1954 champs, the New York Giants, featured three Black players, Monte Irvin, Hank Thompson and a centerfielder you may heard of — Willie Mays.

The 1957 Milwaukee Braves had a lineup with infielder Felix Mantilla and outfielders Bill Bruton, Wes Covington and the iconic Hank Aaron.

In ’59 it was Los Angeles’ turn. In their second season since moving from Brooklyn, the Dodgers had a nearly all-Black infield with catcher John Roseboro, second baseman Charlie Neal, shortstop Maury Wills and third baseman Jim Gilliam.

2022: The 118th edition of baseball’s grand finale is set for Oct. 28 to about Nov. 5. It’s called the World Series and, thankfully, now the whole World is invited. Pull up a chair.

in the roles that they are in.

“Kids today need to learn how to be kids, parents need to learn how to be parents and not your children’s friend,” Mrs. Parker said.

Aging has not been a stressor for Mrs. Parker. When asked how it felt to be 100, she promptly replied “Great. I didn’t think I’d live this long.

“Aging for me is not worrying about anything and not letting others worry me. I have done my job.”

Byron Allen buys $100 million home

Free Press wire reports MALIBU, Calif.

Media mogul Byron Allen just became the first African-American to pay $100 million for a home in the United States.

Mr. Allen, a comedian-turned-businessman who now owns and operates 10 cable networks, m including the Weather Chan nel, paid that price for a 10,698-square-foot luxury mansion in the exclusive Paradise Cove section of Malibu, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

The previous record was held by Beyonce and Jay-Z, who bought an $88 million compound in Bel-Air in 2017.

Mr. Allen’s new Mediterranean-style resi dence, previously owned by Public Storage heiress Tammy Hughes Gustavson, sits on 3.6 acres above the beach and boasts eight bedrooms, 12 baths, a movie theater, a tennis court, a gym and yoga studio.

The home adds to the Mr. Allen’s collection of luxury homes in Beverly Hills, New York and other locations.

Now 61, he is the founding chair and chief executive of ficer Allen Media Group/Entertainment Studios, the largest privately held media company in the United States and valued at more than $4.5 billion.

A Detroit native who grew up in Los Angeles, he got on the road to success as a comedian. Forty-three years ago, at age 18, he was the youngest comedian to appear on the Tonight Show then starring Johnny Carson.

He later was a presenter on “Real People” and starred on “Jammin’” and “Kickin’ It with Byron Allen” for 21 seasons.

When he launched his company 29 years ago, he had to overcome substantial challenges and spent five years suffering poverty and foreclosures before he gained traction.

His company now offers 65 cable shows and employs more than 1,300 people. His news site, “The Grio” is listed as the largest employer of Black journalists.

Mr. Allen overcame a major roadblock to his company’s expansion in 2015 when he filed a racial discrimination lawsuit against two of the largest cable operators, Comcast and Charter, resulting in settlements that led to inclusion of his networks.

Still ambitious, Mr. Allen has plans to spend $10 billion over the next several years to expand his empire.

t E a c h k i t c o n t a i n s e n e r g y s a v i n g i t e m s s u c h a s i n s u l a t i n g w e a t h e r s t r i p p i n g d r a f t s t o p p i n g o u t l e t c o v e r s a n d e n e r g y s a v i n g l i g h t b u l b P a r t n e r a g e n c

Mr. Allen

Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press

Left, family and friends celebrate the 100th birthday of family matriarch. Rose Ann Perry Parker at A Touch of Class event space in Henrico County on Oct. 15. Above, Mrs. Parker, who was born Oct. 16, 1922, is greeted by her nephew, Henry Perry.

‘I was so happy to see family members that I had not seen for years.’

The New York Giants caught the 1954 championship with three Black players

Free Press wire photos

From left: Negro Leagues icon Satchel Paige was already 42 and well past his prime when he appeared in the ’48 Series for Cleveland. Joining Paige with the Indians was outfielder Larry Doby, who had become the American League’s first black player in ’47. Joe Black, a hero of the 1952 regular season and World Series, might have been the best pitcher in all of baseball, Black or white.

DIAMOND

Anthony J. ‘Tony’ Binga Jr., 60, dies

talent for building relationships helped broaden health insurer’s reach

Anthony J. “Tony” Binga Jr., a friendly, outgoing man who played a key role in naming and expanding Virginia Premier, a Richmond-based managed health insurance operation, has died.

Mr. Binga, described as having a “boatload of personality” and affectionately called “A.J.” and “Bing” by his family and wide circle of friends, succumbed to illness on Friday, Oct. 14, 2022. He was 60.

His life will be celebrated 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, at Scott’s Funeral Home Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Blvd., his family said.

A Richmond native, Mr. Binga was the scion of a prominent Richmond family.

His grandfather, the Rev. Anthony Binga Jr., was the longtime pastor of First Baptist Church of South Richmond.

His father, the late Anthony J. Binga Sr., was a mortician who handled day-to-day operations for years for Scott’s Funeral Home, and was involved in a wide range of civic affairs.

His mother, Thomasina Talley Binga, is a former member of the state Board of Education who taught elementary school and ran community affairs for Richmond Public Schools for 34 years,

and for several decades was a well-known organizer of community events and social affairs.

Mr. Binga earned recognition for his work with Virginia Premier for 23 years.

A people person with a knack for sales manship, he was credited with spearheading Virginia Premier’s expansion in Southwest and Northern Virginia through his talent for building relationships with physicians and hospital administrators as he marketed Virginia Premier’s products.

“A.J. was instrumental in and a key to Virginia Premier’s rapid expansion throughout the state,” recalled Patrick McMahon, former vice president of the network development for the company, once an arm of VCU Health and now a subsidiary of Sentara Health care’s Optima Heath.

“He also was one of the core group of individuals who helped strategize and build a statewide network for Crescent Health, then a startup plan in South Carolina that Virginia Premier funded,”

John V. Moeser, an advocate of racial equity and justice, dies at 79

Free Press staff report

Educator and equity advocate John V. Moeser, who spent decades researching and inter rogating Virginia and the South’s relationship with race, poverty and equality, died Monday, Oct. 17, 2022, following a lengthy illness. He was 79.

Born in Colorado City, Texas, on Nov.3,1942 and raised in Lubbock, Mr. Moeser arrived in Richmond in 1970 to work as a professor at Virginia Com monwealth University, where he taught urban politics for over 30 years.

During his time at VCU, Mr. Moeser helped found the Department of Urban Studies and Planning in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, just one ac complishment that was part of

a lifetime focused on racial equity and justice.

This focus in cluded the publi cation of “The Politics of Annexation” and “The Separate City,” books, which documented the occupa tion and marginalization of Black and brown communities in Richmond and other cities, shining new light on historical wrongdoings and their long-term impact for the underserved in Central Virginia.

“Our program lost a gi ant today with the passing of founder Dr. John V. Moeser,” the Department of Urban Studies and Planning wrote in a post to

social media. “He will long be remembered as an outstanding teacher, mentor, thought leader and advocate for social justice and regional collaboration; values central to our mission from our start (in) the 70s and guiding us today.”

Mr. Moeser continued his research into racial politics and history in Virginia following his retirement from VCU as professor emeritus in 2005, becoming a Senior Fellow in the Bonner Center for Civic Engagement at the University of Richmond before retiring from the school in 2015.

Outside his educational and literary work, Mr. Moeser served on the governing boards of Richmond Habitat for Human ity, Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy, Housing Oppor tunities Made Equal of Virginia

and the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation, receiving several awards and honors over the years for his work.

Mr. Moeser is survived by his wife, Sharon, and two sons, Jeremy and David. A memorial service for Mr. Moeser will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 at Second Presbyterian Church, on 5 N. 5th St.

Moore Street Missionary Baptist Church

Mr. McMahon stated.

“He was on road for 10 years,” said Terone B. Green, a lifelong friend and a former vice president for business development and community relations with Virginia Premier. “I don’t know how he did it.”

Now chief administrative officer for the Richmond Ambulance Authority, Mr. Green also credits Mr. Binga with coming up with the health insurance company’s current name during a rebranding session for what was originally Virginia Chartered.

Mr. Binga was a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School who later studied at Hampton University.

Outside of work, Mr. Binga also served as a sponsor for Jay Sharpe and Friends’ annual Christmas toy drive for children of incarcerated parents, and volunteered with the Richmond Police Department’s initiative to provide books to families in Gilpin Court.

Those who knew him are remembering him most for his warm personality.

“You couldn’t have a better friend,” noted Mr. Green, who said Mr. Binga was part of a group of boys who remained friends as adults. “He had the ability to keep all of us together and prevent personal matters from separating us.”

Mr. Binga is survived by his mother, Thomasina T. Binga; his sister, Rita Jane Binga Mack, and his aunt, Cleo T. Umstead.

Years

Riverview Baptist Church

Sunday, October 23,

Sermon by:

Via

Sunday School - 9:30 A.M. Morning Services - 11 A.M. 2604 Idlewood Avenue, Richmond, Va. 23220 (804) 353-6135

www.riverviewbaptistch.org

Part-Time Custodian 15 hours per week

Salary Commensurate with Experience

Mount Olive Baptist Church is seeking a part-time Custodian during the morning hours from Monday – Friday, 9 A.M. – 12 P.M. Duties include but are not limited to: opening and/or closing church buildings in accordance with scheduled activities and or events, keeping the church buildings and grounds clean Preferred candidate should possess previous custodian and/or sexton experience as well as experience in operating a floor buffer. A Criminal History Background Check is required.

This position will remain opened until filled.

Applicants may pick up an application from the church office or submit a resume in lieu of an application to: Mount Olive Baptist Church, 8775 Mt. Olive Avenue, Glen Allen, Virginia 23060. The e-mail address is mstyles@mobcva.org, and the fax number is (804) 262-2397. For more information, please call (804)-262-9614 ext. 227

Application can also be filled out online at https://www.mobcva.org/job-openings

Mr. Binga

Mr. Moeser

DR. JAMES L. SAILES PASTOR