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 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
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
‘(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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Early voting
Early in-person voting for the June 17 primary election continues through Saturday, June 14.
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.
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.
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.
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].
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.
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.
