William Blinn, screenwriter of miniseries ‘Roots’ and film ‘Purple Rain,’ dies at 83
William Blinn, a screenwriter for the landmark TV projects “Roots” and “Brian’s Song” and the Prince film “Purple Rain,” has died. He was 83.
5-time Grammy nominee Bishop Rance Allen, known for blending rock, south and R&B with traditional gospel music, dies at 71
Gospel legend Bishop Rance Allen, a Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductee perhaps best known for his gospel hit “Something About the Name Jesus,” has died at 71.
Personality: Corey Stuckey
Spotlight co-founder of 381 Movement
For Virginia students, the last year has been filled with sudden changes amid a period of upsets and unrest. For 17-year-old Corey Stuckey, his year has been one of big ambitions, both for his educational future and for his work as a key part of the 381 Movement.
RPS changes grading system for elementary students; outlook for reopening not rosy
In a unanimous vote, the Richmond School Board approved changing the grading policy for kindergarten through fifth-grade students for the first semester of the school year.
Jackson Ward hotel project dies after dispute with RRHA over land price
In the summer of 2019, the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority awarded a Black-led development team the right to build a 115-room hotel, at least 63 apartments and a retail store on 3.4 acres in Jackson Ward.
Better Housing Coalition to develop affordable apartment complex in Jackson Ward
Another piece of a grand 30-year-old urban renewal plan for Jackson Ward is moving closer to development.
Pilot program to guarantee $500 monthly to families – no strings attached
Eighteen Richmond families each will receive $12,000 over two years in a pilot program testing whether a guaranteed income would make a difference in helping them achieve financial stability.
Kanye on some Va. ballots
Kanye West’s name appeared on the presidential ballot in two Virginia localities despite the Virginia Supreme Court ruling in early September that he had not qualified as a candidate in the Commonwealth.
Virginia voters approval constitutional amendments, local referendums
Yes, to allowing a 16-member commission to undertake the chore of drawing new political maps. Yes, to exempting totally disabled veterans from the local personal property tax on one vehicle. Yes, to casino gambling in four cities located near the border with North Carolina. No, to removing Confederate statues from their locations outside courthouses in six counties, including Charles City County, with a population that is 57 percent people of color.
Reps. A. Donald McEachin and Abigail A. Spanberger returning to Washington
Incumbent Rep. A. Donald McEachin of Richmond has retained his seat representing Virginia’s 4th District in the U.S. House of Representatives, while his Democratic colleague, incumbent 7th District Rep. Abigail A. Spanberger of Henrico, also appears to be returning to Washington after a seesaw race.
U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner beats back challenge by GOP candidate Daniel Gade
Incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner defeated Republican challenger Daniel M. Gade to retain the seat he has held since 2009.
Mayor Stoney claims victory nearly 24 hours after polls close
It took an extra day, but Mayor Levar M. Stoney finally could claim victory in his bid for re-election to a second, four-year term.
High prescription drug prices hitting hardest in communities of color
Dr. Leonard L. Edloe, a pharmacist of 50 years and pastor of a predominately Black church in Middlesex County, knows well the personal and professional sides of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. He also knows the astronomical costs of prescription medications and the related financial struggles.
Nail-biter
Joe Biden rallies for likely presidential win
Democrat Joe Biden apparently will be the next president.
Trammell, Spinks and Lambert squeeze out victories in City Council races
Tavarris J. Spinks, a specialist in information technology for health care, appears to have eked out a 26-vote victory to claim the vacant 2nd District City Council seat, according to unofficial results released Wednesday.
Deadline for in-person early voting Saturday, Oct.31
Voting information
The presidential election, as well as contests for U.S. Senate, Congress, Richmond City Council and Richmond School Board, will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Gray ‘has articulated sound plans’
I love our iconic city. That is why I want the best person to lead it. That person is unquestionably Kim B. Gray.
Stoney ‘has a vision for our city’
Local government is tough. No leader is perfect. But Mayor Levar M. Stoney has led us through difficult times and managed government well with the resources available.
School Board choices
Like four years ago, the Richmond School Board will experience some turnover this election with three open seats.

