Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week ending on Saturday, June 29, confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Virginia rose 40% from the previous week, though new admissions remained low. No deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported statewide during that time frame. COVID-19 wastewater levels in the Greater Richmond area remain, on average, below detection.
What to the slave is the Fourth of July?
This week, we present a portion of Frederick Douglass’ powerful speech “What to the slave is the Fourth of July?” Delivered on July 5, 1852, this address remains a poignant and searing critique of our nation’s founding principles versus its practices.
Fair housing is up to all of us
We all deserve the freedom to choose where we live. But even Virginians who have won a lottery struggle to find a way home.
The shocking discovery that suddenly made reparations deeply personal for one woman
“We don’t plan on the white man for nothing.”
Ruth Wilson squinted through her browline glasses at the image of a smudged, crumpled document on the computer screen. “To all whom it may concern,” she read. “Fergus Wilson having selected 40 acres of land on Sapelo Island, Georgia, pursuant to Special Field Orders, No. 15…has permission to hold and occupy said tract …”
VUU’s Ny Langley to showcase skills at Harlem’s Rucker Park
Harlem’s legendary Rucker Park is about to get a taste of Panther prowess. Virginia Union University’s basketball standout, Ny Langley, has been invited to participate in the HBCU All Star Dream Classic on Aug. 10, when she’ll compete alongside top collegiate talent.
Virginia officials defend ‘free and fair’ elections as primary results are certified
Drawing from bowl sets ballot order for 2024 general elections
Virginia officials on Tuesday certified the results of last month’s congressional primaries and defended the integrity of the state’s voting systems after a contentious election season.
Personality: Jason T. Pritchard
Spotlight on Board President for Substance Abuse and Addiction Recovery Alliance
Jason Pritchard knows rock bottom — and what it takes to lift oneself from the depths of addiction. As the board president of Richmond-based Substance Abuse and Addiction Recovery Alliance (SAARA), he is constantly fighting for the underserved.
Flying Squirrels’ July 4 game sells out for 14th straight year
The Richmond Flying Squirrels’ July 4 game at The Diamond has sold out, the team announced recently. This marks the 14th consecutive year the franchise has sold out its Independence Day game since its inception in 2010.
Tribute planned for civil rights leader Maggie L. Walker
The National Park Service will honor Maggie Lena Walker’s 160th birthday with a two-week celebration featuring events across Richmond highlighting the Black banking pioneer’s legacy.
Tribute planned for civil rights leader Maggie L. Walker
The National Park Service will honor Maggie Lena Walker’s 160th birthday with a two-week celebration featuring events across Richmond highlighting the Black banking pioneer’s legacy.
July 4 holiday closings
n observance of the Independence Day holiday on Thursday, July 4, please note the following:
Historic former hospital site of Community History Fair
A part of Richmond’s past returns next weekend as the site of the former Richmond Community Hospital hosts a Community History Fair to commemorate its 90th anniversary. The event, set for Sunday, July 7, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., aims to celebrate the institution’s history and raise awareness about its uncertain future.
Richmond Battlefield Park to shutter Tredegar Station, boost river programs
Richmond National Battlefield Park is set to close its visitor contact station at the historic Tredegar Iron Works on July 5. The National Park Service (NPS) has maintained a presence at Tredegar for several years, occupying a small leased space near the entrance to the American Civil War Museum. With the lease expiring this year, park officials are planning to expand their community outreach.
Survivors of Tulsa Race Massacre challenge Oklahoma high court decision
Attorneys for the last two remaining survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre asked the Oklahoma Supreme Court on Tuesday to reconsider the case they dismissed last month and called on the Biden administration to help the two women seek justice.
Black farmers’ association calls for Tractor Supply CEO’s resignation after company cuts DEI efforts
The National Black Farmers Association called on Tractor Supply’s president and CEO Tuesday to step down after the rural retailer announced that it would drop most of its corporate diversity and climate advocacy efforts.
Local BBQ restaurant crowned ‘Best Chef’ at Chicago barbecue competition
The Original Ronnie’s BBQ from Henrico County won the “Best Chef” title at the Six in the City Southern BBQ Experience event in Chicago last month. The competition featured pitmasters and chefs from six southern cities known for their barbecue.
Despite debate performance, support for Biden remains strong among Black leaders, by Tamil R. Harris
President Joe Biden and the first lady spent Sunday at Camp David with their grandchildren after his debate performance. At the same time, the media and a growing chorus of Democrats speculate on the 81-year-old leader’s future.
Environmental justice for Cumberland County, by Benjamin Chavis Jr.
Cumberland County stands on the edge of an environmental catastrophe. An hour west of Richmond, the historic town of Cumberland is set to become the site of the proposed Green Ridge Disposal and Recycling Facility. This 1,200 - acre mega-landfill plans to operate nearly 24/7, releasing harmful pollutants into the air, contaminating the community’s drinking water and depreciating the surrounding residential land value each day.
Richmond basketball bolsters staff: Dollar named assistant coach
Darian Dollar, who served as video coordinator for the University of Richmond’s men’s basketball program last season, has been promoted to assistant coach/director of basketball operations and recruiting, Head Coach Chris Mooney announced last week.
Colonial Downs prepares for 2024 racing season
Colonial Downs Racetrack is gearing up for its 2024 thoroughbred racing season, set to begin July 11. The track announced last week that more than 100 horses have already arrived, with approximately 700 expected during the nine-week season.
