Thursday, June 19
Victory Church of God in Christ offers free summer meals for children
Victory Church of God in Christ is participating in the Summer Food Service Program,
Ebenezer Baptist Church names new senior pastor
Rev. Kevin L. Jones has been named the new senior pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Jackson Ward, following a nationwide search that lasted more than two years.
Virginia Prince Hall Masons celebrate 150th anniversary with event
The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia Free and Accepted Masons, Inc. recently marked its 150th anniversary with a private celebration held June 7 at the Hilton Short Pump ballroom.
1708 Gallery presents ‘2x3: Love’ summer community engagement series
Two artists will transform 1708 Gallery into an evolving space for projects about love this summer as part of the gallery’s new community series, “2x3: Love.”
Juneteenth events
Juneteenth events to attend...
Retiring Sports Backers director honored with street designation
Henrico County and Sports Backers have renamed the street outside the organization’s headquarters in honor of Jon Lugbill, who has served as executive director for 32 years. Park Street, which connects Lakeside Avenue to Sports Backers’ offices, now also carries the honorary designation “Jon Lugbill Drive.”
Norfolk State adds Penn transfer Iyanna Rogers to women’s basketball roster
Norfolk State women’s basketball head coach Jermaine Woods announced Thursday the addition of Penn transfer and former McDonald’s All-American nominee Iyanna Rogers.
Flying Squirrels, Rumble Ponies play to 4-4 tie after storms halt game
The Richmond Flying Squirrels and the Binghamton Rumble Ponies battled for 10 innings Sunday before thunderstorms rolled through The Diamond and forced the game to end as a 4-4 tie.
Irving moves closer to third term as Richmond sheriff
Antionette Irving is one step closer to a third term as Richmond’s sheriff.
McEachin wins by large margin in commonwealth’s attorney primary
For the second time, Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney Colette McEachin has held off challenger Tom Barbour Jr. to retain the Democratic nomination.
Protesters call out Sears’ silence on Medicaid cuts
Dozens of union workers, healthcare professionals and local residents rallied outside the Hippodrome Theater on Tuesday, June 17, where Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears held her election night party for the Virginia governor’s race.
Richmond launches online tracker for p-card reforms
The City of Richmond has launched an online progress tracker to update the public on its overhaul of the city’s purchasing card, or p-card, program — a system that has faced repeated criticism for weak oversight and misuse.
City offers cooling options during summer heat
As temperatures climb across the region, the City of Richmond is providing several options to help residents stay cool and safe through Labor Day.
City earns top accreditation for parking
For many Richmond residents, finding a parking spot can feel like navigating a maze of confusing signs, unpredictable enforcement, and hidden fees. Despite these challenges, the City of Richmond’s Parking Enterprise Division has recently achieved a notable milestone: earning the Accredited Parking Organization status.
Virginia State University names new interim dean and vice provost
Virginia State University has appointed Jessica Brooks as interim dean of the College of Natural and Health Sciences and Desmond Stephens as vice provost for academic affairs, effective July 1.
Alexander named vice chancellor for partnerships at Virginia’s community colleges
Norfolk Mayor Kenneth C. Alexander has been selected as the next vice chancellor for strategic partnerships for the Virginia Community College System, the network announced Monday.
Juneteenth 2025 Closings
Here's what is closed on Thursday, June 19th...
VUU Gospel Choir releases debut single ‘Great is Yahweh’
The Virginia Union University Gospel Choir has released its debut single, “Great is Yahweh,” marking a historic milestone for the student ensemble.
VDH issues third notice to Richmond after May boil water advisory
State officials with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) have raised concerns about Richmond’s water system for the third time this year, issuing another Notice of Alleged Violation to the city Monday over the May boil water advisory.
RippleCon returns to Richmond Public Library
RippleCon, the Richmond Public Library’s annual mini fandom convention, is set to return for its third year on Saturday, June 28, at the Main Library downtown. The free event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will include special guests, workshops, gaming, vendors, photo ops and a cosplay contest.
VUU Names Alico Dunk as 10th Women’s Basketball Coach
Virginia Union University recently appointed Alico Dunk as the 10th head coach in the history of its women’s basketball program.
An appreciation: Jerrauld C. Jones, by Roger Chesley
Jerrauld Jones’ speech about the Confederate flag on the floor of the Virginia House of Delegates in January 1999 displayed an oratory so gut-wrenching, so authentic, that he swayed opposing delegates to his side.
Peaceful protest is patriotic, by David W. Marshall
This is the America the world has been waiting to see. As the self-proclaimed defender of democracy, it is a role embedded in our nation’s history and founding principles. The United States has a long history of supporting democratic movements and institutions globally; now it must seriously fight to save its own democracy at home.
President’s peacemaking efforts invite more chaos, by Clarence Page
While the nation braced to see what would happen next in Los Angeles, on Thursday a surprising message appeared on President Donald Trump’s Truth Social account.
Black Music Month and Sly Stone’s songs remind us to hope, by Julianne Malveaux
Dyana Williams, Kenny Gamble and Ed Wright founded Black Music Month in June 1979. Also known as African American music Appreciation Month, it was first officially celebrated by President Jimmy Carter with a White House reception.
Freedom’s Holiday
With all that’s going on — and there’s a lot going on — we’re pleased and heartened by the strong showing of Juneteenth events this year. It looks like more celebrations are taking place not just on the official day but also in the days leading up to and following it. Juneteenth has come a long way from a somewhat obscure day of remembrance to the national holiday it is today. .
Survivors, families mark 10 years since church massacre
People of faith gathered again at Mother Emanuel AME on Tuesday just like they did 10 years ago, searching for God’s truth and his love in the church fellowship hall.
Jones edges Taylor in Democratic attorney general primary
Norfolk native will face Miyares in November
In a nail-biter Democratic primary Tuesday, Jay Jones narrowly defeated Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor in the race for attorney general, setting up a November showdown with Republican incumbent Jason Miyares.
Edge of Daybreak shines again with new music, film
In 1979, a group of inmates at Powhatan Correctional Center recorded an album with the help of a mobile studio from Richmond’s Alpha Audio. Over five hours, the band Edge of Daybreak laid down eight soul and disco tracks within the prison walls.
Extra rest could be the Pacers’ best ally in the NBA Finals
Given the way Indiana guard Tyrese Haliburton was limping out of the postgame news conference after Game 5 of the NBA Finals, it’s safe to assume he’s a fan of the schedule right now.
Teacher, superintendent Billy Cannaday dies at 75
Condolences have poured in from across Virginia’s education community following the death of Billy K. Cannaday Jr. last week at age 75. His decadeslong career included a variety of local and state roles, including serving as superintendent of Chesterfield County Public Schools from 2000 to 2006.
Personality: Sera Erickson
Spotlight on the collective board member at Rags & Bones Local bicycle co-op
Rag & Bones, Richmond’s volunteer-run bicycle co-op has become a vital hub for the city’s bicycle community. Dedicated to making biking affordable and accessible, the non-profit offers low cost refurbished bicycles and parts and a welcoming space where anyone can learn to keep their wheels rolling.
Thousands join nationwide ‘No Kings Day’ protest
Downtown Richmond rang with chants and cheers Saturday as thousands gathered for the city’s No Kings Day of Defiance, part of a nation-wide protest against the Trump administration.
Hashmi claims Lt. Gov. nod as Stoney concedes race
A Richmond-area politician appeared to win the lieutenant governor spot on Virginia’s statewide Democratic ticket in Tuesday’s elections. But it wasn’t former Mayor Levar Stoney.
Friday, June 13
Former CIAA Coach of the Year joins VUU as women's hoops leader
Virginia Union University recently appointed Alico Dunk as the 10th head coach in the history of its women's basketball program.
Thursday, June 12
‘Un/Bound’ highlights more than two centuries of free Black life in Virginia
A new exhibition at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture explores the lives and legacies of free Black Virginians from 1619 to the end of slavery in 1865.
Commentary: High school runner loses championship after officials disqualify her celebration, by E. Faye Williams
Clara Adams, a sophomore high school sprinter in California, had a rule change after winning a preliminary heat in the girls’ 400 meters in a CIF State Track and Field Championship meet. There’s no doubt she won, but her victory was stripped because a rule was made up to disqualify her after she won.
Richmond football unveils 2025 home schedule as new Patriot League era begins
The University of Richmond football team will usher in a new era this fall as it makes its debut in the Patriot League, highlighted by a five-game home schedule at Robins Stadium.
Bag tax profits off problems
Once again, the Richmond powers have chosen to monetize a problem instead of solve it. And, of course, it’s us, the consumers, whose pockets are rifled.
Antioch Baptist Church preserves the past
I recently attended the open house of the Historic Chatsworth School in the Varina area of Henrico County. The open house was highlighted in the [Free Press May 22-25 edition].
Henrico Schools takes summer outreach on the road
Henrico County Public Schools officials recently launched their annual summer outreach program this week, deploying a mobile resource center to connect families with educational resources and community services during the break from classes.
Summer food programs fight childhood hunger
Feed More and the Virginia Department of Social Services are expanding efforts to fight food insecurity among children and teens during the summer break.
New advocates to aid Henrico foster children, court cases
Henrico Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) recently welcomed 12 new volunteers, joining nearly 100 others who assist children affected by abuse or neglect.
Early voting
Early in-person voting for the June 17 primary election continues through Saturday, June 14.
Richmond airport resumes international flights after decade-long gap
Richmond International Airport resumed international passenger service last week with BermudAir flights to Bermuda, ending a decade-long gap in overseas connections.
Norfolk State, Duke to play in women’s basketball series
Norfolk State University and Duke University have finalized a home-and-home women’s basketball series set to take place over the next two seasons, the schools announced.
Richmond education pioneer Lucille M. Brown dies at 96
For more than four decades, Lucille Brown shaped Richmond education, guiding the development of students and schools across generations while rising through the ranks to become one of the city’s most influential educators. Her death on June 5, at the age of 96 was preceded by a life whose impact will be felt by the community for decades to come.
Personality: James Johnson
Spotlight on nominee for the 2026 Grammy Music Educator Award
Armstrong and John Marshall high school’s choral director James Johnson is among 200 quarterfinalists for the Grammy Music Educator Award. The award, presented by the Recording Academy and the Grammy Museum, recognizes educators who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education. Nominees also must demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in schools.
Millions expected to attend “No Kings” protests throughout Virginia, U.S.
On June 14, protesters nationwide plan to rally against the Trump administration in a series of coordinated events.
‘(re)Framing Protest (Now)’ exhibition comes to Branch Museum
Five years after Richmond’s streets filled with protesters seeking justice following George Floyd’s murder, photos of that historic moment are returning to public view.
Colonial Downs adds 17 race days to summer schedule
Live thoroughbred racing returns to Colonial Downs next month, following a record-setting spring meet that saw more than 8,000 fans witness American Promise win the Virginia Derby and earn a spot in this year’s Kentucky Derby.
Australian reliever’s story takes another Richmond turn
Peter Moylan once arrived in Richmond as an unknown Australian reliever with a rebuilt career and a revived fastball. On Thursday, June 12, he’ll return as a celebrated major league veteran, signing autographs and throwing the ceremonial first pitch where part of his improbable journey took shape — The Diamond.
Study shows redlined Virginia neighborhoods are hotter in the summer
As hot and humid summer weather settles across Virginia, a recent study finds that certain neighborhoods across the state, often with higher populations of people of color, can be up to 15 degrees hotter than other areas. The research cites extreme heat as the cause of “more fatalities in the United States than any other weather phenomenon.”
Juneteenth reminds us the fight for justice is not over, by Ben Jealous
My grandmother taught me we are all born into a great, unfinished struggle. She meant the struggle for justice. For truth. For dignity.
Bromance breaks up — on social media, by Clarence Page
For those who think government should be run like a business, the messy social media spat that played out last week between President Donald Trump and billionaire CEO Elon Musk suggested that business could be doing a lot better.
The cruelty of ending Job Corps, by Marc H. Morial
“We want to give every child a place to grow and learn—a chance to be proud of themselves and their country.” – President Lydon B. Johnson, on launching Job Corps in 1964
City taps new CAO, registrar and violence prevention director
The City of Richmond filled several top leadership roles last week, with new appointments made in government operations, election oversight and gun violence prevention.
Juneteenth’s origins remembered as historic handbill resurfaces
The origin of the Juneteenth celebrations marking the end of slavery in the U.S. goes back to an order issued as Union troops arrived in Texas at the end of the Civil War. It declared that all enslaved people in the state were free and had “absolute equality.”
Barbara Grey, celebrated Richmond educator and mentor, dies at 99
Teacher. Principal. Art Curator. Mother. Godmother. Friend. Barbara Radcliffe Grey held many roles during her life and career, and she approached each with a dedication to creativity, growth and joy. That commitment, friends and family say, continues to resonate after her peaceful passing on Saturday, June 8, at age 99, surrounded by loved ones.
Sly Stone, barrier-breaking music icon of the 1960s and ’70s, dead at 82
Sly Stone, the revolutionary musician and dynamic showman whose Sly and the Family Stone transformed popular music in the 1960s and ’70s and beyond with such hits as “Everyday People,” “Stand!” and “Family Affair,” died Monday at age 82.
Richmond Ed Fund adds four to board as work with schools expands
The Richmond Ed Fund has added four new members to its board as the nonprofit expands its efforts to support Richmond Public Schools through increased funding and strategic initiatives.
Shalom Farms initiative links fresh food to chronic illness care
Shalom Farms has launched a new Produce Prescription program aimed at helping Richmond residents manage chronic illnesses through increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
McEachin, Barbour set for primary rematch in Richmond commonwealth’s attorney’s race
Four years after losing a primary challenge against Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney Colette McEachin, Richmond lawyer Tom Barbour is taking another shot at unseating the city’s top prosecutor.
Bag tax burden
If you’ve shopped outside Richmond in recent years, you may have encountered the bag tax — a small fee that’s become a familiar part of the checkout routine. With City Council’s approval last week, Richmond will join the list next year.
The sound of quacking
There’s a moment in time for politicians and other people in the public eye when they discover their position has diminished. They may hold the same job, retain much of the intellect and talent that got them there, but along the way something shifts – and they realize they don’t have the same degree of influence they’ve been accustomed to.
The sound of quacking
There’s a moment in time for politicians and other people in the public eye when they discover their position has diminished. They may hold the same job, retain much of the intellect and talent that got them there, but along the way something shifts – and they realize they don’t have the same degree of influence they’ve been accustomed to.
Thursday, June 5
City leaders confront water system failures, plan treatment plant upgrade
Frustration is mounting among Richmond area officials and residents following a series of water service disruptions, as City of Richmond leaders weigh long-term plans to modernize the aging water treatment plant responsible for much of the region’s supply.
Bag it up
Council approves 5-cent fee on plastics
They flutter in trees, clog storm drains and drift along the James River — and starting next year, plastic bags will come with a price in Richmond.
Judge dismisses murder charges against Atlanta officer in 2019 shooting of unarmed man in closet
A federal judge has thrown out murder charges against a former Atlanta police officer who shot and killed an unarmed man hiding in a closet.
Personality: William Hamm
Spotlight on board president of Virginia Down Syndrome Association
When parents learn their child has Down syndrome, they often go through a spectrum of emotions—from shock and disbelief to fear and guilt. For some, the diagnosis comes during prenatal testing; for others, it may arrive weeks after the baby is born. William Hamm and his wife, Teresa, received their son David’s diagnosis when he was two weeks old.
Pacers’ 25-year Finals drought is over as they look to overcome snakebitten history
The Pacers have finally ended the franchise’s 25-year NBA Finals drought, achieving the unthinkable after starting the season 10-15 and looking like anything but a title contender.
Walkathon raises funds for Gaza children’s mental health care
About 70 residents from across the Richmond region gathered at Byrd Park on Saturday morning for a 5K walkathon and breakfast in support of the children in Gaza amid the ongoing war.
Va. free health clinics strategize survival after state, federal funding cuts
Amid federal and state funding cuts, freezes and delayed payments, the outlook is grim for free clinics in Virginia that have had to trim or halt some services, but there is hope, Health Brigade Executive Director Karen Legato said Thursday evening.
Tucker’s lasting contributions to medicine and patients’ rights
A new Virginia historical highway marker honoring Bruce Oliver Tucker was unveiled during a private ceremony Friday, May 30. The dedication brought together members of Tucker’s family, local officials, community members and health system leaders.
Youngkin sets Sept. 9 special election to fill Connolly’s seat in Congress
Gov. Glenn Youngkin on Tuesday set a special election for Sept. 9, 2025, to fill the congressional seat left vacant by the death of Rep. Gerry Connolly, a longtime Democratic fixture in Northern Virginia who passed away May 21 after a recurrence of cancer.
Protesters rally in Minneapolis after federal operation sparks immigration raid fears
Dozens of protesters converged in the heart of the Latino community in Minneapolis on Tuesday after a large force of federal and local authorities wearing tactical gear conducted what they called a law enforcement action.
Election Coverage: Democratic candidates highlight education, equity and justice in LG primary
Virginia’s Democratic primary for lieutenant governor features several candidates, with the Richmond region playing a prominent role as two of the leading contenders have strong Central Virginia ties.
Running for the dunker’s spot in Virginia politics
If you’re reading this in the state of Virginia, there’s a good chance that you — or someone you know — is a candidate for lieutenant governor.
Summer learning loss a crisis we can’t ignore, by Julianne Malveaux
When schools let out for summer break, usually between mid-May and mid-June, millions of students will be disengaged from learning and will experience significant learning loss.
Rising temperatures, poor planning fuel wildfire crisis, by Ben Jealous
The smoke has already arrived. This past week, thick plumes from wildfires in Manitoba and Saskatchewan drifted into the U.S., triggering air quality alerts across the Midwest. Cities like Milwaukee, Madison and Chicago are experiencing hazy skies and dangerous air conditions, with the Air Quality Index reaching levels unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Flying Squirrels held hitless into eighth in 5-1 loss to Senators
The Richmond Flying Squirrels were held without a hit until the eighth inning and dropped their series finale to the Harrisburg Senators, 5-1, Sunday afternoon at The Diamond.
Norfolk State to face Rutgers in Vick’s first road game as head coach
The Michael Vick era at Norfolk State will include a nationally televised road game against Rutgers, with a 3:30 p.m. kickoff scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 13, the Big Ten Conference announced Thursday.
New Generation Church RVA to dedicate new building
New Generation Church RVA will host a building dedication ceremony Sunday, June 8, at its newly opened campus in the Randolph neighborhood.
Civil rights, legal trailblazer Jerrauld C. Jones dies at 70
Jerrauld C. Jones began making history before his 10th birthday, becoming one of the first Black students to integrate Ingleside Elementary School in Norfolk in 1961. It was the start of a lifetime of breaking barriers in Virginia’s courts and legislature that extended his family’s civil rights legacy and served the Commonwealth for more than four decades. Jones, who went on to become the Virginia Supreme Court’s first Black law clerk, a state delegate and a Norfolk Circuit Court judge, died Saturday, May 31, 2925, at age 70.
Faith leaders, health care advocates arrested while protesting GOP budget bill at U.S. Capitol
A group of clergy, faith-based protesters and disability advocates were once again arrested in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Monday, June 2, while praying against the Republican-led federal budget bill, including a wheelchair user who said potential cuts to health care programs would imperil her future.
‘Ultimate Dinosaurs’ exhibit reveals prehistoric predators from distant continents
The roar of the past echoes through the halls of the Science Museum of Virginia this summer, as visitors encounter the strange and spectacular creatures of a lost world. “Ultimate Dinosaurs,” a touring exhibition, reveals discoveries about prehistoric predators that lived millions of years ago on continents far from the North American landscape.
Chief Justice Goodwyn honored with state’s top judicial service award
The Judicial Council of Virginia recently named Chief Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn of the Supreme Court of Virginia as the recipient of the 2024 Harry L. Carrico Outstanding Career Service Award.
Minus named president at Eastern Shore Community College
Daryl Minus has been named president of Eastern Shore Community College, effective July 1, the Virginia Community College System announced last Thursday.
Early voting
Early in-person voting for the June 17 primary election continues through Saturday, June 14.
Hey men, Dems want your votes—they really do, by Clarence Page
Where are the Democrats? What are they doing about the damage President Trump is doing to … everything?
City urged to focus on water fixes, not distractions
The ongoing issue of not having access to safe drinking water is unacceptable. How many times do we have to go through this? While the City Council debates the use of plastic bags, more urgent matters, like addressing the recurring failures at the water treatment plant, are being overlooked. It feels like the city is prioritizing the wrong problems. Perhaps it’s time to bring in an external investigative panel to determine why we can’t seem to get this right. It’s shameful
Who will protect Jackson Ward?
Jackson Ward, Richmond’s National Landmark and Historic District of brick row houses, churches and museums, small black-owned businesses, murals and parks, porches and gardens, is under attack.
VUU’s DJ Mitchell ballin’ at legendary Rucker Park
Virginia Union University 6’5” guard DJ Mitchell has been selected to play in the HBCU All-Star Dream Classic, set for Saturday, Aug. 9, at Rucker Park in Harlem, N.Y.
Girard going global with sports diplomacy program in Bulgaria
Mallori Girard, a longtime volunteer with the Richmond-based nonprofit Jacob’s Chance, has been selected by the U.S. Department of State to take part in the Sport for Social Change exchange program this month in Bulgaria.
Data brings hidden stories of self-emancipation to light in talk
Rows of names, dates and notations in dusty county records may seem like dry data points. But to researcher Tev’n Powers, they reveal stories of resistance and freedom once left out of Virginia’s historical narrative.
