Thursday, February 27
Roberta Flack, Grammy-winning ‘Killing Me Softly’ singer, dies at 88
Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning singer and pianist whose intimate vocal and musical style made her one of the top recording artists of the 1970s and an influential performer long after, died Monday, Feb. 24, 2025. She was 88.
Richmond Ballet prepares for first performance at VMFA in decades
As renovations to the Leslie Cheek Theater at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts near completion, the museum and Richmond Ballet have announced that beginning March 20, the ballet company will move its repertory series, now known as “Moving Art,” to the theater.
Kamala Harris receives prestigious NAACP Chairman’s Award
Former Vice President Kamala Harris stepped on the NAACP Image Awards stage Saturday night with a sobering message, calling the civil rights organization a pillar of the Black community and urging people to stay resilient and hold onto their faith during the tenure of President Trump.
You can’t steal our Joy
This week, we witnessed what appeared to be a purge of diverse voices at MSNBC, a television channel owned by NBCUniversal.
Lawsuit challenges big lie of anti-equity movement, by Marc H. Morial
An elective despotism was not the government we fought for; but one in which the powers of government should be so divided and balanced among the several bodies of magistracy as that no one could transcend their legal limits without being effectually checked and restrained by the others.” — Thomas Jefferson
Voter’s remorse? Not much, but give it time, by Clarence Page
Colorful billionaire and presidential adviser Elon Musk sparked quite a reaction at the Conservative Political Action Conference outside Washington last week when he leaped around the stage waving a chainsaw. “This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy. CHAINSAAAW!” he exclaimed. “Uwaaauwaargh!”
Nat King Cole’s role in Civil Rights Movement overlooked, by Donna M. Cox
Six decades after Nat King Cole’s death in 1965, his music is still some of the most played in the world, and his celebrity transcends generational and racial divides. His smooth voice, captivating piano skills and enduring charisma earned him international acclaim.
Library of Virginia event explores Jimmie Strother’s music and legacy
On March 7, the Library of Virginia will take visitors back to a time when street musicians roamed the Upper South, sharing the music and stories of their lives. From 6 to 7:30 p.m., the library will host a free music performance and book talk focused on Jimmie Strother, a blind Virginia songster whose recordings from 1936 continue to influence American music today.
New round of funding to preserve Virginia’s diverse historical narratives
History is alive across Virginia, from museums and archives to tribal centers and cultural institutions. A new round of funding from the Virginia Museum of History & Culture will support those efforts, awarding more than $500,000 to 11 organizations dedicated to preserving and sharing the Commonwealth’s past.
Legal trailblazer Willard Douglas Jr. remembered
Behind and beyond the judge’s bench, Willard H. Douglas Jr. broke new ground for African Americans in Virginia. The state’s first full-time African American judge died Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025 at the age of 93, following decades of legal and community service.
Ida Cheatham, beloved Maymont figure, dies at 105
To walk through Richmond’s Maymont neighborhood is to experience the work of its most famous resident, Ida L. Cheatham, who died Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, at 105.
Chris Jasper, legendary Isley Brothers member, dies at 73
Chris Jasper, the renowned singer, songwriter and producer who helped shape the sound of The Isley Brothers, died on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, at the age of 73. His death followed a cancer diagnosis in December 2024.
Sweet celebrations
Honey tasting in honor of Black History Month
This event, hosted by City Bees in honor of Black History Month, featured a free honey tasting at Virginia Union University on Feb. 8.
Mayor, City Council discuss City priorities, water crisis aftermath
City Council and Mayor Danny Avula met Monday to discuss housing, family support and the city’s long-term recovery from January’s water crisis.
VMI board ousts first Black superintendent
Decision sparks political outrage as lawmakers decry move as ‘purely political.’
In a stunning decision that has already sparked political backlash, the Virginia Military Institute’s Board of Visitors voted Friday morning against extending the contract of Ret. Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins, the school’s first Black superintendent
African Americans turn to Ghana for peace and belonging
Amid growing social and political unrest in the U.S., Ghana has emerged as a beacon of hope — a sanctuary offering respite from America’s increasing polarization. What began as a call to reconnect with ancestral roots through the 2019 “Year of Return” campaign has transformed into the decade-long “Beyond the Return” initiative, offering not only a spiritual homecoming but also an escape from escalating discord.
Personality: Russell W. Scott
Spotlight on president of Howard University Alumni Club of Richmond
Founded to provide educational opportunities to formerly enslaved persons, HBCUs continue to empower Black Americans in pursuit of racial equity. A study by the Institute for College Access and Success reveals that HBCUs account for only 3% of all colleges and universities in the U.S. Still, they serve 10% of all Black students and award 17% of all bachelor’s degrees earned by Black students.
Lenten Lunch series to highlight women in faith leadership
Fifty years ago, the Episcopal Church ordained its first female clergy, a milestone that reshaped faith leadership. This Lenton season, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church will mark the anniversary by hosting a special lunch and speaker series featuring women in ministry.
Golden Fest supports Richmond musician after cancer diagnosis
Local blues singer and guitarist Justin Golden was poised for a breakout year in 2025. After his album “Hard Times and a Woman” gained international attention, February promised to be one of his busiest months yet, with multiple shows lined up and plans for his fourth studio album. Then, just over a month ago, the 34-year-old performer was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, forcing him to cancel upcoming performances. In response, his management team, record label, and local musicians rallied together to launch “Golden Fest,” a series of benefit concerts to help cover his medical expenses.
Richmond names Scott Morris director of public utilities
The City of Richmond has appointed Scott Morris as the permanent director of the Department of Public Utilities, officials announced Friday.
Former City Council member Addison steps into leadership role
As political shifts unfold in Richmond, two prominent leaders are making moves to shape the city’s and state’s Democratic future. Former City Council member Andreas Addison has been appointed first vice chair of the Richmond City Democratic Committee, while state Sen. Lamont Bagby has launched his campaign to become the next chair of the Democratic Party of Virginia.
Dozens take oath of citizenship at Virginia Museum of History & Culture
The auditorium at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture was filled to capacity Presidents Day, Feb. 17, as more than 60 people from nearly 40 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony led by Judge David J. Novak.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending Saturday, Feb. 22, COVID-19 accounted for 1.2% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, with overall respiratory illness rates moderate and trending down compared to previous data. No COVID-19-related deaths were reported during this period at press time. As of the most recent sample collection week on Sunday, Feb. 16, no trend in COVID-19 wastewater levels was available for Richmond, while levels in Henrico County had plateaued.
Chesterfield academy to offer government insight for local residents
Chesterfield County, in partnership with the Asian and Latino Solidarity Alliance of Central Virginia (ALSACV), is accepting applications for this year’s My Chesterfield Academy. The deadline to apply is Monday, March 17.
Wage bills vetoed last year by Youngkin clear General Assembly again
Democratic lawmakers passed a bill to increase the state’s minimum wage, although the effort might be thwarted again by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who previously said the bump stifles economic competitiveness.
Henrico employee receives $25,000 scholarship from Chick-fil-A CEO
At Chick-fil-A White Oak Village on Feb. 26, Taylor Powell, a Rise Academy student and employee, was surprised with a $25,000 scholarship as part of Chick-fil-A’s Remarkable Futures Scholarships program. The scholarship will support Powell’s plans to attend the University of Virginia, where she intends to major in psychology and pursue a career as a clinical child psychologist.
As Virginia housing costs rise, General Assembly offers little relief
The median price of a single-family home in Virginia rose almost 40% between 2019 and 2024, pushing home ownership out of reach for many working-class families. This year, Virginia legislators have introduced various measures to make home buying more attainable, both by helping buyers and incentivizing more home building. Progress has been slow.
Apple shareholders reject proposal to scrap company’s diversity programs
Apple shareholders rebuffed an attempt to pressure the technology trendsetter into joining President Donald Trump’s push to scrub corporate programs designed to diversify its workforce.
Staley to release memoir detailing her career, life lessons
Dawn Staley, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time WNBA All-Star, will publish a book titled “Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three” on May 20.
Virginia Union’s Maia Charles earns Rookie of the Year honors
Virginia Union University’s Maia Charles was named the CIAA Women’s Basketball Rookie of the Year, a well- deserved honor announced Sunday, Feb. 23, at the CIAA Tournament Awards Ceremony in Baltimore.
Nutzy’s Block Party set for March 1 at The Diamond
The Richmond Flying Squirrels will host their annual Nutzy’s Block Party on Saturday, March 1, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Diamond.
Vick announces three new additions to Norfolk State football staff
Norfolk State football Coach Michael Vick announced three additions to his coaching staff Wednesday, welcoming Tim Smith, DeCedrick Quinn Sr. and Wilson Appleton for the 2025 season.
Hayes to speak at Richmond Peace Center event
The Richmond Peace Education Center will host Rev. Mark J. Hayes as a guest speaker for its 2025 Peace Center Speaker Series on March 11.
Monday, February 24
VCU dominates second half to take down George Mason 70-54
VCU used a dominant second half to power past George Mason 70-54 on Saturday before a sellout crowd of 7,637 at the Siegel Center, pulling the Rams into a tie for first place in the Atlantic 10.
Thursday, February 20
Multiple Richmond protests highlight unity, activism on Presidents Day
Richmond was alive with activism Presidents Day as hundreds gathered across the city to protest the policies of the Trump administration and local political leaders. From rallies in Capitol Square to marches through the streets, the day highlighted a shared commitment to justice, solidarity and community action.
NAACP lists companies that dump DEI in its tactical spending guide for Black Americans
The NAACP wants Black Americans to steer their buying power toward companies that haven’t pulled back from diversity, equity and inclusion programs under conservative pressure, and the nation’s oldest civil rights organization is listing which brands have stood by — or reversed — past commitments to DEI.
Personality: Andrea Daughtry
Spotlight on founder of For the Fem In You
At 16, Andrea Daughtry already was carving out a place for herself in the music industry.
A Black church that now owns Proud Boys logo is using it to sell shirts
A historic Black church whose Black Lives Matter sign was destroyed by members of the extremist group Proud Boys is now selling T-shirts using the group’s logo after the congregation won the Proud Boys trademark as part of a year long legal dispute.
Newlin Music Prize announces 2025 short list
The Newlin Music Prize recently announced the 20 albums shortlisted for its 2025 award, recognizing outstanding music from Richmond area artists. The winner, set to be revealed on March 24, will receive a $2,500 cash prize and a commemorative trophy. Each remaining nominee will receive $250, with the organization awarding a total of more than $7,000 to local musicians.
All-Star break over
Time for run toward NBA playoffs
The trade deadline is gone. The All-Star break ended Wednesday. Luka Doncic is with the Los Angeles Lakers. Jimmy Butler is with the Golden State Warriors. Anthony Davis is with the Dallas Mavericks, though it’s unknown when he’ll play again. The dust has settled. It’s time for the stretch run.
Confederate marker near DPU substation under new scrutiny
The future of a Confederate marker near a City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities substation on Wise Street is uncertain under Mayor Danny Avula’s administration. The marker, placed by the United Daughters of the Confederacy in 1939.
LeVere Bolling becomes first Va. lawmaker to vote remotely after giving birth
Delegate Destiny LeVere Bolling, D–Henrico, became the first woman in Virginia allowed by political leaders to vote remotely after she delivered her child last week, casting her votes miles from a statehouse historically governed by men.
Youngkin, legislators battle on court, raise over $100K for cancer research
Gov. Glenn Youngkin, lobbyists and representatives from the House and Senate competed Monday evening on the basketball court to raise money for cancer research.
Let it snow
After a few dry winters and lots of discussion about climate change, many of us didn’t think we’d see snow like this again – or at least not for a long while. But here it is, weather we want it or not. (See what I did there?)
Honoring Black history in Virginia from 1619 to today, by Kay Coles James
This month, as we celebrate African-American History Month, we reflect on the depth, resilience and undeniable contributions of Black Americans to this nation. Nowhere is that history more deeply woven into the fabric of America than in Virginia.
Timely pushback against Trump-Musk secrecy deals, by Clarence Page
It’s not easy to steal the spotlight from two seasoned publicity lovers like President Trump and Elon Musk, but Musk’s 4-year-old son X AE A-Xii, or “X” for short, made it look easy during his Oval Office visit.
Silence of the lambs: Youngkin, Miyares and the rule of law, by David J. Toscano
The Trump administration, backed by Project 2025 allies, continues its assault on the rule of law — facing little opposition from Republican leadership, including here in Virginia.
Flurry of fluff
Light snow dusts the city
The city saw a sudden winter chill this week, as light snow covered the streets, bringing a pause to the usual rush hour bustle. With office buildings and schools closing, city parks became gathering spots for children and parents hoping to take advantage of prime snowman-building weather. Wednesday morning’s below-freezing temperatures, followed by a powdery snow, arrived several hours ahead of schedule and lingered well into the evening.
VAIPL to host open mic on environmental and racial justice
Virginia Interfaith Power & Light (VAIPL) is hosting an open mic night this Thursday, Feb. 27, from 7 to 8 p.m. at Abi’s Books & Brews, 1212 W Cary St. The event invites participants to explore the intersection of racial and environmental justice through poetry, prose, music and storytelling.
Report on Richmond water crisis highlights staffing, procedure gaps
An independent report identified the cause of a January outage at the City of Richmond’s water treatment plant that left residents without running water for days, and found ongoing issues in need of solutions.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Mid-Atlantic Region to host Richmond conference
More than 4,500 members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority will gather in Richmond for the organization’s 72nd Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference, set for March 6 through 9 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.
Richmond cancer survivor featured in national campaign
As Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month approaches in March, Richmond resident CiNease Freeman is taking her story to a national stage.
Joy-Hogg leads Richmond’s operations as interim CAO
Sabrina Joy-Hogg was sworn in as Richmond’s interim chief administrative officer during a ceremony in the basement of the Main Branch of the Richmond Public Library last month.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending Saturday, Feb. 15, COVID-19 accounted for 1.3% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, with overall respiratory illness rates trending down but still high compared to previous data. No COVID-19-related deaths were reported during this period at press time. As of the most recent sample collection week on Sunday, Feb. 2, COVID-19 wastewater levels in Richmond were below detection, and levels in Henrico County had plateaued.
McClellan celebrates Women’s History Month with awards program
U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, 4th District, recently launched her second annual Women of Excellence Awards program to celebrate Women’s History Month and honor the outstanding contributions of women in Virginia’s 4th District.
The shop stop
A text message has been making the rounds in recent days — maybe you’ve received it or a version of it. It calls for a one-day boycott of corporations like Amazon, Walmart and Best Buy, which have recently cut back or eliminated their diversity programs.
VUU to play SIAC champion Miles College in opener
The Virginia Union University football team, the defending CIAA champions, will kick off the 2025 season with an appearance in the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic on Sunday, Aug. 31, in Canton, Ohio.
Reader commends the Free Press
I want to congratulate the Richmond Free Press on the Jan 30 - Feb 5, 2025 edition. Every article was so interesting and informative, especially the editorial page; I read it twice.
CIAA to celebrate 50th anniversary of women’s basketball tournament in 2025
The CIAA marks the 50th anniversary of its Women’s Basketball Tournament at the 2025 Food Lion CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament, set for Feb. 25 through March 1 at the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, Maryland.
Virginia golfer among finalists for Augusta National Women’s Amateur
Virginia golfer Amanda Sambach has earned a spot in the 2025 Augusta National Women’s Amateur, joining an elite field of top players from around the globe.
FXA Sports, 804 Softball team up to enhance local leagues
Coed softball players in the local area will soon have more opportunities to take the field. FXA Sports, a leading provider of adult recreational sports leagues in Virginia, has merged with 804 Softball to expand league offerings in the region.
HGTV stars headline Richmond Home + Garden Show
The Richmond Home + Garden Show will feature HGTV stars Leslie Davis and Lyndsay Lamb, co-hosts of “Unsellable Houses,” from Feb. 28 to March 2, at the Richmond Raceway Complex. The twin sisters will share their home and design expertise with attendees on Feb. 28 and March 1, offering advice on budget-friendly home improvements and real estate insights.
Thursday, February 13
“Be the Match”
Family’s urgent search for bone marrow donor to save 4-year-old son
Zion Ortiz was a week old when he was diagnosed with hemoglobin SS, a form of sickle cell disease. Eight months later, he suffered a stroke, leading to complications such as a diagnosis of a rare disease callaed moyamoya, two surgeries, a 21-day hospital stay and two additional stroke-like episodes in later years.
Second minister accuses T.D. Jakes of sexual misconduct in defamation suit
The Rev. Richard Edwin Youngblood, the brother of a minister who has accused Bishop T.D. Jakes of sexual misconduct, has made his own accusation involving Jakes, claiming the Texas megachurch leader climbed into bed with him on a church business trip.
Love Stories 2025
The Richmond Free Press presents its annual Valentine’s Day feature sharing the love stories of three Richmond area couples.
Shavonda and Errol were leaders dedicated to serving the community, but not each other. Despite crossing paths often in their community, they never exchanged words.
RVA Sports Awards honors athletes/community leaders
The Richmond region’s top athletes and sports leaders were recognized Saturday night at the RVA Sports Awards, an annual event hosted by the Richmond Region Tourism Foundation.
RPS chief talent officer on leave amid workplace complaints
Richmond Public Schools Chief Talent Officer Maggie Clemmons was placed on administrative leave recently after complaints were received from Talent Department’s employees for discrimination and creating a hostile work environment.
Blood drive to honor Richmond firefighter battling leukemia
The Richmond community is coming together once again to support one of its own. The third annual blood drive honoring Jonathan Clarke, a longtime firefighter battling leukemia, will take place Feb. 18-19 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.
Azalea Flea Market closure marks end of an era
On a windy Sunday afternoon, over a hundred cars pulled into the vast parking lot off Wilkinson Road. Young parents walking with their children, shoes crunching on the gravel with each step, as vendors invited everyone to approach their array of goods: fruit and vegetables, clothes, jewelry, shoes, home appliances and other items.
Rally highlights youth activism
Last week, when news spread that a protest was set for the grounds of the State Capitol, a number of people voiced their concern of its legitimacy.
How government failed Black Americans, by Julianne Malveaux
I can’t remember when I met Olivia Hooker, a Tulsa Massacre survivor and the first African American woman to serve in the Coast Guard. She wanted to serve as a Navy WAVE – or Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Services – but they weren’t accepting African Americans. I remember aspects of our first meeting vividly.
Enjoy Black History Month—while you can, by Clarence Page
Back when a public backlash began to rise up mostly among white parents against “critical race theory,” I joked as to whether Black History Month might be next. I don’t joke about that anymore.
This Black librarian rewrote the rules of power, gender and passing
“Just because I am a librarian doesn’t mean I have to dress like one.” With this breezy pronouncement, Belle da Costa Greene handily differentiated herself from most librarians.
Kickers add VCU standout Jonathan Kanagwa to roster
The Richmond Kickers have signed former Virginia Commonwealth University midfielder Jonathan Kanagwa for the 2025 season, pending league and federation approval.
OutKast, Chubby Checker and Mariah Carey earn first-time Rock Hall nominations
Mariah Carey, Chubby Checker, Cyndi Lauper, OutKast and Phish are some the 2025 nominees for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a list that also includes two sets of musical brothers who have had public feuds and recent reunions — the Black Crowes and Oasis.
Misty Copeland’s new picture story, ‘Bunheads, Act 2,’ out in September
Misty Copeland is ready to take young readers on another imaginary trip to the ballet.
Council approves land acquisition for Richmond Slave Trail
City Council members unanimously approved the acquisition of about 4 acres of land Monday evening, securing full ownership of a portion of the Richmond Slave Trail after years of effort.
5 Richmond women graduate ‘Black in Business’ program
Five Black women entrepreneurs from the Richmond area have graduated from Goldman Sachs’ “One Million Black Women: Black in Business” program.
Construction firm selected for Shockoe Institute project
Against the backdrop of Richmond’s historic Main Street Station, plans for the Shockoe Institute are moving forward. The city has selected Team Henry Enterprises to lead construction of the more than 12,000-square-foot educational facility in Shockoe Bottom, a site central to Richmond’s role in the domestic slave trade.
Personality: Bryce Robertson
Spotlight on president of the Richmond Crusade for Voters
Bryce Robertson’s passion for uplifting his community has driven his work since his time as a student government leader at Atlee High School in Hanover County. His commitment to this cause remains steadfast, and he is determined to inspire others to join his mission.
Henrico leaders seek solutions to water crisis with new proposals
Henrico County could experience significant changes to its water supply as local leaders assess their response to a water outage in Richmond that affected the region for days and consider measures to prevent a similar crisis in the future.
Black College Con brings esports competition and career opportunities
Black College Con 2025 is bringing the excitement of gaming and esports to Virginia State University on Feb. 19, giving students the chance to compete and connect with top industry professionals.
Local standouts highlight Virginia State’s 2025 football recruits
With depth and competition in mind, Virginia State University Head Football Coach Henry Frazier III has assembled a 2025 recruiting class he believes will strengthen the Trojans following their 2024 Co-CIAA Regular Season Championship.
Glow showcases STEM education at Science Museum
The Science Museum expanded its Glow event on Feb. 1 to coincide with the opening of “Towers of Tomorrow with Lego Bricks.” The event, held from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., featured hands-on activities, live demonstrations and laser shows.
Naturalization ceremony brings American dream to museum
Holding small American flags and wearing broad smiles, dozens of immigrants will take the oath of citizenship 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 17, Presidents Day, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, marking a milestone in their American journey amid historical artifacts of their new nation.
‘Nickel Boys’ challenges perceptions with bold, visual storytelling
Amid numerous stories of Black hardship, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by grief and anger. But RaMell Ross’ “Nickel Boys” offers a refreshing reminder that many untold stories remain, and his innovative filmmaking adds depth to the African American experience.
Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending Saturday, Feb. 8, COVID-19 accounted for 1.4% of all emergency department visits in Virginia, with overall respiratory illness rates high and trending upward compared to previous data. No COVID-19-related deaths were reported during this period at press time. As of the most recent sample collection week on Sunday, Feb. 2, COVID-19 wastewater levels in Richmond were below detection, and levels in Henrico County had plateaued.
Maggie Walker Community Land Trust announces leadership change
The Maggie Walker Community Land Trust has appointed Mae Worthey-Thomas as its new chief executive officer, the organization announced recently.
Fox to depart RPS, accepts position in Hanover
Richmond Public Schools Chief Operating Officer Dana Fox will resign from her position at the end of the month, the school division announced last week.
Thursday, February 6
Ganther joins VCCS as senior vice chancellor
Felicia Ganther has been appointed as the new senior vice chancellor for academic and workforce services at the Virginia Community College System.
A month of history
I remember the first time I heard about Black History Month. It’s one of those memories that’s etched in my mind from elementary school.
Trump’s quick finger-pointing raises questions, by Clarence Page
As the investigation into Wednesday’s air disaster in Washington was still getting underway, President Donald Trump didn’t bother to wait for actual evidence to figure out what was to blame: “DEI.” That’s shorthand, in case you haven’t heard, for diversity, equity and inclusion programs, a controversial hiring practice that has become a one-size-fits-all bludgeon for the president and his allies to use against Democrats — even when facts don’t support them.
We will not be erased, by Julianne Malveaux
The 47th President has attacked our government like a bull in a China closet. He is doing his best to upend precedent and policy, as he promised that he would.
Appreciation: Henry L. Marsh III, by Bob Lewis
It could be easy at times to forget that Sen. Henry Marsh was even there, listening quietly from his back-row desk in the Senate of Virginia.
Dennis Pelfrey returns for fourth season as Richmond manager
The Richmond Flying Squirrels are gearing up for a big 2025 season, with Dennis Pelfrey returning as manager for his fourth year. This will make him the longest-tenured manager in team history.
Kaine meets with local community leaders to discuss concerns on federal policies
Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., met with community leaders Monday morning at Health Brigade, formerly Fan Free Clinic, for a roundtable discussion on their concerns about President Donald Trump’s controversial executive orders.
Fighting back
Hundreds gather at Capitol Square for anti-Trump protest
Hundreds of protesters from across the state gathered at the Bell Tower in Capitol Square at noon as part of the nationwide “50 Protests, 50 States, 1 Day” movement, condemning policies enacted by the Trump administration, including mass deportations, anti-trans executive orders and efforts to dismantle federal agencies.
Protest erupts in D.C. against Trump administration plans to spike global humanitarian aid
Thousands gathered on Capitol Hill Wednesday to protest the Trump administration’s bulldozing of U.S. disaster aid and critical medical care in war-torn and poverty-stricken regions around the globe.
Purple Heart recipient Michael Gregory Brown dies at 77
Michael Gregory Brown, a Richmond native and champion for social justice, died peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospital on Jan. 26, following a brief illness. He was 77. Funeral services were held Feb. 3 at Joseph Jenkins Jr. Funeral Home.
Advocate, educator Denise V. Thomas-Brown remembered
Denise V. Thomas-Brown, a passionate advocate for underserved communities, died Dec. 22, 2024, in Richmond. She was 66.
John Marshall edges Woodside at Coaches for the Cure
Saturday brought some of the state’s top young basketball talent together as the “Coaches for the Cure” event raised money for cancer research before a large crowd at the Henrico Sports and Event Center.
Penny’s Wine Shop to appear in local Super Bowl commercial
Before the pandemic, Lance Lemon and his business partner, Kristen Gardner Beal, had plans to open a brick and mortar wine shop. With quarantine in effect, they shifted their business model online, creating RichWine, an online service which delivers wine to consumers across the state.
Personality: Patricia A. Jones
Spotlight on the president of the Metro Richmond Chapter of the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College
HBCUs have played a critical role in the achievement of African Americans and their contributions to the U.S. To maintain the legacy and secure educational opportunities for future generations, alumni proudly provide financial support. Patricia Jones leads the charge locally as president of the Metro Richmond Chapter of the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College, a private, all-female HBCU in Atlanta.
Charles H. Taylor Sr. honored for service, leadership
Retired 1st Sgt. Charles H. Taylor Sr., a decorated veteran and longtime Richmond-area businessman, died Jan. 19 at age 92. Taylor, known as “Pop” or “Pop Taylor,” was with his wife of 40 years and his son-in-law at the time of his death. His celebration of life service took place Jan. 29.
Joybells founder Joye B. Moore to appear on ‘Shark Tank’ Feb. 7
Richmond-based entrepreneur Joye B. Moore, the founder of Joybells, will pitch her family recipe-inspired gourmet pie business on ABC’s “Shark Tank” this Friday Feb. 7, at 8 p.m. Moore was selected from tens of thousands of applicants in September 2024 to present her company to the panel of investors known as the Sharks for a potential investment.
RPS board strengthens protections for immigrant students
The Richmond School Board unanimously approved new policies and resolutions aimed at protecting immigrant students during Tuesday night’s meeting.
Chief Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn announces retirement
Chief Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn of the Supreme Court of Virginia has announced his retirement, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Former Virginia Union deputy chief to lead VCU police
Clarence T. Hunter Jr., a former deputy chief of police at Virginia Union University, has been named chief of the Virginia Commonwealth University Police Department.
Lawmakers move forward with bills to offer African American history as a credit
A push to allow African American studies as a history credit for Virginia high schoolers cleared a major hurdle Monday, with bills advancing in both the House and Senate.
Documentary showcases students’ journey through civil rights history
After months of production, the Armstrong Leadership Program will premiere its documentary on the program’s summer trip focused on the African American experience on Feb. 25 at 5:30 p.m. at the Richmond Hill Chapel on 2209 E. Grace St.
Richmond ranks among Top 10 for Black-owned businesses
For the third consecutive year, Richmond is ranked among the top 10 U.S. cities with the highest percentage of Black-owned businesses, according to a new analysis from LendingTree.
RVA Sports Awards names Community Champion Award honoree
A respected leader known for her dedication to student-athletes will be honored at the RVA Sports Awards this month at the Altria Theater. The Richmond Region Tourism Foundation recently announced that the late Peggy Davis is this year’s Community Champion Award honoree.
Former NFL player Woodbury joins NSU coaching staff
Norfolk State head football coach Michael Vick is adding more firepower to his staff, this time with a familiar face to the MEAC — Tory Woodbury, who will serve as the Spartans’ new special teams coordinator.
VUU students compete in VFIC Ethics Bowl ahead of Super Bowl
As excitement builds for the Super Bowl, another high-stakes competition is set to take place in Richmond.
Maggie Walker’s pioneering journey explored in performance
Richmond’s Maggie L. Walker, a pioneering businesswoman and the nation’s first Black female bank president, will be honored in a special living history presentation featuring storyteller Theresa G.
Sunday, February 2
Coaches for the Cure showcase delivers thrilling finish in Henrico
Saturday brought a collection of the state's top young basketball talent together in one place, as the "Coaches 4 The Cure" event raised money for cancer research in front of big crowds at the Henrico Sports and Event Center.
