Thursday, October 30
Black artists’ alliance exhibition explores American identity
The Black American Artists’ Alliance of Richmond, recently opened “America the Beautiful?”—a group exhibition examining the complexities and contradictions of American life—at Browne Studio/Gallery, 1100 Hull St. The show runs through Nov. 28.
Stories of loss and legacy come to light in Library of Virginia film series
In the quiet halls of the Library of Virginia, stories once buried beneath bulldozers and blueprints are finding their voices again.
Personality: Devin Morgan
Spotlight on the University of Richmond’s 2025-26 Newman Civic Fellow
University of Richmond senior Devin Morgan’s leadership in environmental justice and food equity has earned him the prestigious Newman Civic Fellowship for 2025-26. His impactful work with the Sierra Club and Shalom Farms, along with his on-campus initiatives, has demonstrated a deep commitment to social change, a key requirement for the fellowship that supports community-committed college students.
Youngkin and Earle-Sears fail Virginia schools
Letter to the Editor
As a high school student, I’ve seen Virginia schools suffer from underfunding under the Youngkin and Earle-Sears administration. Lt. Gov. Earle-Sears’ slogan says, “Let’s keep a good thing going,” but was her administration really good? No.
The case for Jay Jones by Phillip Thompson
In Virginia politics, we often say that the Attorney General’s Office is where law and politics collide. It determines whether our justice system will serve all Virginians equally — or become a politicized weapon of a partisan actor. As Black Virginians and D e m o c r a t s approach this critical election, one truth must be clear: We cannot afford to leave our attorney general candidate behind. We have to rescue Jay Jones by voting for him.
City opens funding for affordable housing projects
The City of Richmond announced a new round of funding through its Affordable Housing Trust Fund, making more than $13 million available to support the creation and preservation of affordable housing.
VSU extends president’s contract through 2032
Virginia State University recently extended the contract of President Makola M. Abdullah through 2032, securing long-term leadership for the historically Black university.
8 Spartans to be inducted into NSU Hall of Fame
Norfolk State University’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced its 2025 Hall of Fame induction class, honoring eight individuals for their contributions to Spartan athletics.
High school students to host TEDxRVA Youth
Richmond’s next generation of thinkers and creators will take center stage Saturday, Nov. 8, when high school students host the 13th annual TEDxRVA Youth at Collegiate School’s Hershey Center for the Arts. The free event runs from 5 to 7 p.m.
Obama challenges Trump’s remap power grab by Clarence Page
Friends who are frustrated by the current White House regime still ask me, “Where is Obama?”
When the blues hit home, family wages matter by Ben Jealous
The old blues singer had it right: “When a lady gets the blues, she hangs her head and cries. When a man gets the blues, he grabs the train and rides.”
Reasons not to vote
As part of this election-heavy issue, we’ve gathered every reasonable argument for staying away from the polls in the days ahead, and listed them below. The evidence is overwhelming and the conclusion undeniable.
Serving as a poll worker builds confidence in Virginia elections by Ivy Main
If you are worried about American democracy, you have plenty of company. Who your company is, though, depends on your concern.
Earle-Sears’ campaign ploy over transgender people demonizes vulnerable population by Roger Chesley
Transgender teens ages 13 to 17 comprise a scant 3.1% of the youth population in Virginia. But trans issues have loomed unusually large in Virginia’s gubernatorial election this year — and not in a good way.
Region unites to keep food on tables amid SNAP disruption
Feed More’s headquarters in Richmond serves as the hub for Central Virginia’s food distribution network.
‘Reading Rainbow’ returns as child literacy drops
The popular 1980s show “Reading Rainbow” was rebooted in October at a time when children across the nation struggle with reading.
7-year-old brain cancer survivor receives custom hairpiece
Myla, a 7-year-old brain cancer survivor, received a custom hairpiece Saturday at Bombshell Wigs Galore, marking a milestone in her recovery and offering a boost to her confidence.
Richmond Health Equity Fund awards $135,000 to community organizations
The Richmond Health Equity Fund is providing $135,000 in continued funding to community organizations that address health disparities across the city. The grants will support programs focused on health care access, chronic disease, food security, maternal and child health, and mental and behavioral health.
Virginia Humanities names new class of HBCU Scholars Fellows
Virginia Humanities has announced seven new recipients of its HBCU Scholars Fellowships, bringing together a diverse group of educators, writers and researchers from historically Black colleges and universities in Virginia and North Carolina.
Early voting
Richmond and Virginia voters can cast ballots early for the 2025 elections, including races for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and all 100 members of the House of Delegates, as well as a variety of local offices. Early voting allows residents to vote in person before Election Day and can help reduce wait times at polling places.
Richmond groups plan march and rally ahead of Election Day
More than a dozen Richmond-area organizations will join the Richmond chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) on Sunday, Nov. 2 for a “United We Stand” march and rally.
Virginia SNAP substitute to roll out weekly through November
Virginia’s budget surplus will fund a state-level replacement for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program should the federal government shutdown continue into November, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced Tuesday.
City ramps up pressure on problem vape shops
“If you can’t push them out through policy, tax them out.” — Stephanie Lynch, City Council member 5th District
City officials are weighing tougher measures on vape shops, including higher taxes, nuisance penalties and stricter enforcement, after repeated problems with illegal activity and robberies tied to some of the stores.
Lawmakers debate redrawing congressional maps in special session
The halls of the Virginia General Assembly are abuzz with activity and arguments this week, as state senators and delegates returned for a special session that could reshape the state’s congressional districts.
Friday, October 24
Ed Coleman, 82, devoted life to teaching and community service
Edward Coleman’s journey from Pittsburgh to Richmond was marked by resilience and compassion — qualities that drew soldiers, karate students and family members to Scott’s Funeral Home weeks after the 82-year-old’s Sept. 10 death to celebrate a life dedicated to service and teaching.
Thursday, October 23
Richmond police officers, firefighters to face off in charity boxing event
Richmond police officers and firefighters will step into the ring for a charity boxing event on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at River City Roll.
Korn Ferry Tour picks Glen Allen for 2026 championship
Professional golf will remain in the Richmond area with the Korn Ferry Tour Championship moving to The Federal Club for the 2026 season finale, Oct. 5-11.
Kickers fall 2-0 to AV Alta FC
The Richmond Kickers (7-17-5) came up short in their first visit to USL League One newcomer AV Alta FC, falling 2-0 despite creating several scoring chances.
Former MLB standout Al Bumbry to be Homecoming Parade marshal
Virginia State University alumnus and former Major League Baseball player Alonzo “Al” Bumbry will serve as marshal and guest of honor for this year’s Homecoming Parade.
Interfaith initiative aims to increase voter turnout
The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy is relaunching its annual “Interfaith Souls to the Polls” initiative to encourage early voting across the state in the final two weekends before the 2025 election.
Faith, family and fun fill the field at Catholic Fest
The Catholic Diocese of Richmond welcomed thousands to The Diamond for its first Catholic Fest, a daylong celebration of hope, faith and community.
ICA names new leaders in curatorial and exhibitions
The Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University has promoted two longtime staff members to leadership roles designed to strengthen the museum’s exhibitions and programming.
VMFA appoints Wai Yee Chiong new curator of East Asian art
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has named Wai Yee Chiong, Ph.D., as its new E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Curator of East Asian Art, following an international search. She began her new role on Oct. 10
Pull the lever, hold the nose
By now, you’ve probably heard about the texting troubles of Democratic attorney general candidate Jay Jones.
Richmond-area seniors and Hanover residents offered help to stay warm
As fall temperatures dip, seniors and low-income residents across the Richmond area are being offered ways to stay warm this winter, from free weatherization kits to financial assistance for heating bills.
Maggie Walker Community Land Trust appoints new board member
The Maggie Walker Community Land Trust recently named Derrick Billie to its board of directors.
Early voting
Richmond voters are casting ballots early for the 2025 elections, including races for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and members of the House of Delegates. Early voting allows residents to vote in person before Election Day and can help reduce wait times at polling places.
Shalom Farms to host annual Harvest Festival on Oct. 29
Shalom Farms will hold its fourth annual Harvest Festival on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 5 to 8 p.m. at its Northside Farm, 1311 Westwood Ave.
Obama to campaign with Spanberger in Norfolk
Former President Barack Obama is scheduled to join former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger for a campaign rally Saturday, Nov. 1 in Norfolk, marking the first visit to Hampton Roads by a Democratic president in more than a decade.
Panthers roar past Lincoln 66-21 in Homecoming rout
Virginia Union University celebrated Homecoming with a dominant 66-21 win over Lincoln University on Saturday at Hovey Field, improving to 6-1 overall and 4-0 in CIAA play.
Billionaires benefit from government shutdowns by Igor Volsky
Most people are surprised to learn government shutdowns, and the ensuing finger-pointing, haven’t always been a mainstay of American politics.
Pentagon policy sparks media walkout, public outcry by Clarence Page
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has done it again.
Scientists warn coral reefs have passed a tipping point, threatening oceans and economies worldwide by Ben Jealous
My parents’ marriage was illegal in Maryland in 1966, so they moved west.
Shockoe Hill African Burying Ground reflects history of neglect and resilience by Chip Colwell
The burying ground looks like an abandoned lot.
Leaders, mentors to speak at men’s summit at VUU
The Men’s Master Summit will host its fall 2025 gathering on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Virginia Union University’s Living and Learning Center.
Theater community honors standout productions at 17th annual Artsies
Richmond Triangle Players and Firehouse Theatre dominated the 17th annual Richmond Theatre Community Circle Awards, or Artsies, with Firehouse taking home 13 awards and the Triangle/ Firehouse co-production of “A Strange Loop” earning six honors, including Best Musical and Best Direction of a Musical.
Personality: Paulette Walker Johnson
Spotlight on the founder and former coach of the VSU Woo Woos
For almost four decades, Paulette Walker Johnson has been a defining force in HBCU cheerleading and an esteemed figure at Virginia State University.
Judge issues injunction against Miyares in probe of pro-Palestinian nonprofit
A U.S. district court judge has blocked enforcement of punitive measures against a pro-Palestinian nonprofit under investigation by Attorney General Jason Miyares.
Hanover author uncovers overlooked stories of Black history in ‘Roses in December’
Jody Lynn Allen has always been fascinated by the striking gaps in history, and she was especially charmed by the stories she’s heard in her hometown Ashland — hidden histories that lingered just below the surface of Hanover County.
Goochland students bring global cuisine to Friday night football
Friday night football at Goochland High School now comes with a side of cultural education, thanks to two students who turned a Spanish class assignment into a thriving food business.
Richmond schools and unions begin negotiations on bargaining process
Richmond Public Schools administrators and representatives from employee unions have completed the first week of an intense monthlong series of discussions about changes to the collective bargaining process.
Council delays vote on city’s public records library plans
Two ordinances that would change how Richmond handles Freedom of Information Act requests through a new online library will remain under discussion.
Richmond Public Schools reaches 8-year high in graduation rates
John Marshall High School buzzed with excitement Friday morning as Richmond Public Schools officials and students gathered to celebrate the division’s record-high graduation rates.
Race tightens
Spanberger still leads, but margins narrow in statewide contests
Democrat Abigail Spanberger holds a 7-point lead over Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears in Virginia’s 2025 governor’s race, according to a new Commonwealth Poll released Tuesday by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Thousands take to streets in ‘No Kings II’ protest
Thousands of people gathered in Richmond on Saturday as part of more than 2,700 No Kings II protests held across the nation.
Thursday, October 16
‘Banana Ball’ brings Negro Leagues tribute to Richmond’s new CarMax Park
A modern spin on showtime baseball with deep roots in Black baseball history is coming to Richmond next spring.
Virginia State unveils 2025-26 men’s basketball schedule
Virginia State University men’s basketball coach Lonnie Blow Jr. recently announced the team’s 2025-26 schedule.
Accountability starts with Miyares, not Jay Jones
Letter to the Editor
Jason Miyares wants these closing weeks of the campaign to be Virginia’s attorney general to be about Jay Jones’ words.
Roland Martin to lead VSU voter engagement event
Journalist and political commentator Roland Martin will visit Virginia State University on Thursday, Oct. 16 as part of Trojan Voter Week.
Richmonders to join nationwide ‘No Kings II’ protests Saturday
Richmond will host one of over 2,000 planned protests nationwide against the actions of the Trump administration Saturday, when local and state residents gather in the city for the No Kings II event.
Judge allows Bishop Barber’s lawsuit to proceed
A federal judge has denied AMC Theaters’ request to dismiss a lawsuit filed by civil rights leader Bishop William Barber II,stemming from an incident in which theater employees called police to remove him for not providing proof of a disability.
Ebenezer Baptist to welcome new pastor with banquet and worship services
The congregation of Ebenezer Baptist Church is preparing to formally install the Rev. Kevin L. Jones as its new pastor with a weekend of worship, fellowship and community celebration.
Explore the power of poison at the Science Museum of Virginia
Visitors at the Science Museum of Virginia are stepping into a world where danger meets fascination.
Hanover seeks high schoolers to serve as Election Day pages
The Hanover County Elections Office is seeking high school students to serve as Election Day pages on Nov. 4.
Early voting
Richmond voters are casting ballots early for the 2025 elections, including races for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and members of the House of Delegates. Early voting allows residents to vote in person before Election Day and can help reduce wait times at polling places.
Local floorball star represents US at world championships
Suzi Lindquist’s path to representing the United States at the Women’s World Floorball Championships runs straight through Richmond.
A’ja Wilson delivers one of the greatest seasons in WNBA history
A’ja Wilson’s numbers in 2025 were like none other.
Kyren Lacy’s story shows failures in law enforcement and justice by Marc Morial
America has a long history of overpolicing Black men, scapegoating them as criminals without due process.
Hypocrisy in holy robes by Ben Jealous
When a revered church leader blesses cruelty as holiness, he’s not preaching Paul’s gospel. He’s sanctifying Sodom’s sin.
Trump’s real problem with Black women by Julianne Malveaux
Donald Trump has a type — and it’s not the one tabloids flaunted. His real issue is Black women who hold power.
Letting her finish
The performance of our current lieutenant governor in the recent gubernatorial debate at Norfolk State University brought to mind a career-changing moment in popular music from years ago.
Church hosting exhibition as it opens immigrant resource center
Ramsey Memorial United Methodist Church and community collaborators will celebrate the opening of the Community Growth Center on Friday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony from 3 to 5 p.m.
‘Black Beyond Borders’ dives into diaspora life with DIY spirit
Ebony Walden is taking the global Black experience into her own hands — and onto the screen.
InLight celebrates future North stars with ‘Super!Giant!Jump!Star!’
“InLight 2025: Super!Giant!Jump!Star!” the grand premiere of artist George Ferrandi’s multidisciplinary project “Jump!Star!” will be held Friday and Saturday at Abner Clay Park. The free public event runs from 7 to 11 p.m. both nights at 200 W. Clay St.
Personality: Monica Manns
Spotlight on the SisterFund board chair
When Monica Manns first learned about SisterFund, a local Black philanthropic organization, she was a nonprofit professional seeking funding rather than providing it.
Spanberger, Earle-Sears outline workforce plans at education conference
As Virginia seeks to strengthen communities statewide and support economic growth, gubernatorial candidates Abigail Spanberger and Winsome Earle-Sears presented their cases at the Virginia Education & Workforce Conference in Richmond on Tuesday as to why they should be elected to lead these efforts.
Chesterfield Supervisor Jim Holland dies at 73 after cancer battle
James M. “Jim” Holland, a five-term Dale District supervisor and one of Chesterfield County’s longest-serving public officials, died Tuesday at his home after a battle with cancer. He was 73.
ChildSavers launches perinatal mental health program in Richmond
ChildSavers is offering virtual and in-person therapy for pregnant and postpartum individuals through a new pilot program, It Takes a Village, in partnership with the Virginia Health Care Foundation.
First training class graduates from workforce development program
Richmond residents graduated Friday from a community-based workforce development program created through a partnership between the City of Richmond, the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) and Kirila Construction Services (KCS).
Avula, city officials launch plan to guide Richmond’s future
Thriving neighborhoods, a growing economy and a more accountable city government are among the goals outlined in Mayor Danny Avula’s new Mayoral Action Plan, or MAP, aimed at delivering measurable improvements across Richmond.
RPS recommends Armstrong name remain
Following arguments that supported or opposed renaming Armstrong High School, RPS conducted a districtwide survey in September asking specific groups where they stood on the matter.
City Council rejects real estate tax rate cut
Richmond’s $1.20 real estate tax rate will stay the same for another year after Richmond City Council voted 5-3-1 on Tuesday against a proposed four-cent reduction in the rate.
Tuesday, October 14
D’Angelo, Grammy-winning R&B singer, dies
D’Angelo, the Grammy-winning R&B singer recognized by his raspy yet smooth voice and for garnering mainstream attention with the shirtless “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” music video, has died. He was 51.
Thursday, October 9
Hispanic Football Hall unveils college Player of the Year watch list
Fifteen college football standouts of Hispanic heritage were named Wednesday to the first-ever watch list for the Hispanic College Football Player of the Year Award.
Darville powers Virginia State to split with Winston-Salem in CIAA showdown
Virginia State split a doubleheader with Winston-Salem, improving the Trojans’ record to 5-8 overall and 4-1 in CIAA play.
Korir, Hawkins lead VUU to fifth at HBCU Challenge
The Virginia Union University men’s cross-country team placed fifth out of 13 schools at the HBCU Challenge on Oct. 3 in Cary, North Carolina, led by medal-winning runs from freshmen Rodgers Korir and Darryl Hawkins Jr.
Norfolk State coaching legend Charles Christian set for Hall of Fame
Former Norfolk State University men’s basketball coach Charles Christian, a Richmond native and Armstrong High School alumnus, will be posthumously enshrined into the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame this November.
VSU opens largest building in school history
Virginia State University has opened the Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons, the largest facility in the school’s 143-year history.
‘Gabriel Gathering’ to honor enslaved rebellion leader
Supporters of efforts to reclaim and memorialize Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom district will gather Friday, Oct. 10, for the 23rd annual Gabriel Gathering.
Folk Festival to feature ‘Riverlore’ films, discussion
The Richmond Folk Festival will highlight Virginia’s rivers this year with a special film screening and launch party on Thursday, Oct. 9, ahead of the festival, which runs Friday through Sunday, Oct. 10-12, at Brown’s Island and the downtown riverfront.
City expands Zoning Advisory Council
Mayor Danny Avula announced Wednesday the addition of four new members to the city’s Zoning Advisory Council, expanding the panel from 17 to 21 members in response to resident calls for broader representation in planning decisions.
Early voting
Richmond voters are now casting ballots early for the 2025 elections, including races for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and members of the House of Delegates. Early voting allows residents to vote in person before Election Day and can help reduce wait times at polling places.
Norfolk State to host only Virginia gubernatorial debate Thursday
Norfolk State University will host the only face-to-face debate between the Republican and Democratic candidates for Virginia governor on Oct. 9.
Luxury trains and metro access: Fans plan for Commanders’ RFK comeback
Wealthy Virginians used to travel to NFL games in Washington aboard a 1919 luxury rail car now displayed at the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond.
Personality: Anthony Clary
Spotlight on the founder of WeOffTheCouch
Growing up in Blackwell on South Side, Anthony Clary rarely saw Black people running or exercising. Now, as founder of WeOffTheCouch, he’s working to change that reality.
Don’t let pharmacy deserts swallow our communities by Ed Towns
We certainly live in challenging times. Shortly before RFK Jr.’s hand-picked CDC panel met last month to abandon its COVID-19 vaccine recommendations, Sen. Adam Schiff publicly asked insurers to cover routine vaccines for illnesses, no matter what the group recommended.
Not your ordinary shutdown — lives at risk by Julianne Malveaux
The federal government shut down Oct. 1, and the impasse between congressional Democrats and Republicans suggests it could be a long one. Speaker Mike Johnson has already sent Congress home to do “district work.”
Revolutions for freedom and equality remain unfinished by Ben Jealous
In my house, two legacies face each other. On one wall hangs a reproduction of “The Spirit of ’76,” painted by my cousin Archibald M. Willard for the nation’s 100th birthday.
Surprise, surprise
How can you tell it’s October in Richmond? Even without a calendar or a smartphone, a few signs stand out.
Debt-burdened Virginians in limbo with new payment plans, government shutdown
Changes in student loan repayment plans have coincided with the government shutdown, which could leave Virginia borrowers in limbo.
DNA and facial reconstruction offer clues in decades-old South Richmond case
On Aug. 27, 2002, the body of a man was found in a ravine next to a brickyard in Blackwell.
Virginia school board members rate districts higher than the public, study finds
Most school board members in Virginia and across the country have a higher level of optimism about their school districts than the public, reflecting a key public education disconnect, according to a study published by the Fordham Institute on Wednesday.
Former Gov. Doug Wilder scraps lawsuit against VCU officials
Two months after former Virginia Gov. Doug Wilder sued a pair of VCU leaders over a recent workplace investigation involving him, Wilder is voluntarily dropping the case.
John W. ‘Casey’ Jones Sr., beloved dentist and mentor, dies at 83
For generations of Richmond residents, John W. “Casey” Jones Sr. helped keep their teeth clean and smiles bright.
Dementia documentary screening at Real Life Ministries
Wisdom Watch Alliance will host a free community screening of the documentary “Remember Me: Dementia in the African American Community” on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 10 a.m. at Real Life Ministries COGIC, 113 Wilkinson Road.
Tavares Floyd indicted on felony election fraud charges
Tavares Floyd, whose 2024 campaign for Richmond City Council drew scrutiny after the accuracy of his campaign finance filings was questioned, was indicted Monday on four counts of felony election fraud.
Questionable gifts cloud Earle-Sears’ governor bid
Virginia Republican gubernatorial nominee Winsome Earle- Sears built her political brand on transparency and accountability.
School Board stalls vote on bargaining changes
Richmond Public Schools’ historic collective bargaining agreement will remain unchanged for now after the Richmond School Board voted 6-3 Tuesday to defer a decision on proposed changes.
Thursday, October 2
Early voting
Richmond voters are now casting ballots early for the 2025 elections, including races for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and members of the House of Delegates.
Virtual talk to explore roots of Confederate monuments
The Library of Virginia will host a free virtual talk at noon Wednesday, Oct. 8, featuring Donovan Schaefer, a Virginia Humanities fellow, on his research project “Nationalism & Cosmopolitanism in the Creation of Richmond’s Confederate Monuments.” Registration is required at https://lva-virginia.libcal.com.
Greater Mt. Moriah hosts festival of unity, peace
Greater Mt. Moriah Baptist Church joined with city leaders and the Richmond Police Department to host “Falling for the Culture: A Festival of Unity, Peace, and Hope” on Sunday along the Jackson Ward and Gilpin Court corridor.
Faith, festivities to highlight first Catholic Fest
The Catholic Diocese of Richmond will host its inaugural “Catholic Fest” on Saturday, Oct. 11, at The Diamond, offering a day of free activities for families and the broader community.
New Jersey bishop to lead revival at Second Baptist Church (West End)
Bishop Liston Page Jr., a Virginia Union University graduate who has preached nationally and abroad, will return to Richmond next week to lead the fall revival at Second Baptist Church (West End), 1400 Idlewood Ave.
Virginia State sweeps Lincoln in straight sets
Virginia State volleyball needed just three sets to dispatch Lincoln (Pa.) on Monday, rolling to a 25-9, 25-9, 25-11 win at the Multipurpose Center.
Virginia Union rolls past Shaw 59-7
Virginia Union University’s offense piled up 611 total yards as the Panthers routed Shaw University 59-7 on Saturday at Durham County Memorial Stadium.
Atlanta’s first all-Black high school polo team wins inaugural match
The Atlanta BEST Academy Polo Team made history at the eighth annual Atlanta Polo Party, not only becoming the first all-Black high school polo team to compete but also winning its debut match.
Vape age
When we look back on 2025, once we process the general upheaval of governmental norms and the fractured political discourse, we might ask ourselves a question: What was up with all those vape and smoke shops?
Virtual panel to show police footage of Richmond’s civil rights era
For decades, footage of Richmond’s marches, rallies and protests sat quietly in police archives. This week, VCU Libraries will bring these rarely seen films into public view.
Free Press headquarters in Downtown Richmond up for sale
The Imperial Building, home to the Richmond Free Press since 2001, has been listed for sale, officials confirmed.
8 arrested, 60 pounds of marijuana seized in area vape shop raids
Eight people were arrested and more than 60 pounds of marijuana seized during coordinated raids on vape shops, a storage unit and residences across the Richmond area, Henrico County police said Wednesday.
RPS faces union opposition to proposed bargaining revisions
Four years after Richmond Public Schools became the first division in Virginia to recognize collective bargaining rights for its employees, school officials and unions are at odds over proposed changes to that process.
Jackson State tops 2025 HBCU football media poll
The Jackson State Tigers remain the No. 1 team in HBCU football for the sixth consecutive week, continuing their dominance from the preseason, according to the 2025 HBCU Football Media Poll administered by BOXTOROW.
ICA at VCU rolls out fall slate of artist talks and performances
The Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University is opening its fall season with an expanded schedule of artist talks, performances, film screenings and a new chef residency.
Communities pay the price for ‘free’ AI tools By Dan Howells and Todd Larsen
AI is everywhere, but its powerful computing comes with a steep cost to our planet, our neighborhoods and our wallets.
Personality: Tanesha Powell
Spotlight on the executive director of ART 180
With a passion for youth development and a love for the arts, Tanesha Powell has stepped into the role of executive director at ART 180, the Richmond nonprofit that has empowered young creators for nearly 30 years.
Ettrick native Rudi Johnson leaves lasting mark on football and community
Burudi Ali “Rudi” Johnson, a standout running back from Ettrick in Chesterfield County, built a lasting sports legacy both on and off the football field.
Conflict entrepreneurs behind our broken politics by Clarence Page
I have long become accustomed to what I call the “BTMF” reflex whenever a great, newsmaking calamity or outrage happens.
Artists’ solidarity offers a blueprint against blacklists by Ben Jealous
Everywhere I go lately, people whisper the same question: Are we sliding into another blacklist era?
We see you
Look out, my fellow tenacious reporters and grizzled editors — we think there may be a person on council that’s after all of our hearts.
Virginia universities report historic targeting of Black communities
As Virginia’s public colleges and universities expanded to meet growing demand for higher education, several targeted majority-Black neighborhoods.
Takeaways from historic governor’s race include reduced spending
The upcoming Virginia gubernatorial election will make history, with the state’s first female governor poised to take office in January, but it is not generating as much money as some past races.
Harris, Moore urge Congressional Black Caucus to stand firm
Former Vice President Kamala Harris and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore urged members of the Congressional Black Caucus to remain resilient and take action in the nation’s challenging political climate during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 54th annual Legislative Conference Phoenix Awards Dinner on Saturday.
RPS pays former auditor $30,790 amid unexplained exit
The Richmond School Board paid $30,790 to its former director of internal audits, Douglass Graeff, as part of his separation agreement with the division.
City launches budget plan with more input
Richmond officials are launching a revamped budget process that starts earlier, adds more public input and reorganizes work sessions to improve efficiency.
Government shuts down after Senate deadlock; Trump signals mass layoffs
Health care tax credits remain at center of standoff
The federal government began shutting down early Wednesday after Congress failed to approve a funding bill before the start of the new fiscal year, setting off nationwide disruptions and giving the Trump administration an opening to lay off federal workers.
