July fourth holiday schedule
In observance of the Independence Day holiday on Friday, July 4, please note the following:
Baskin named deputy director of research at VCU Massey
Monica L. Baskin has joined the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center as deputy director of research.
Senate budget plan threatens hospital funding, Virginia officials warn
With roughly $1 trillion in Medicaid funding at stake, Congress is racing to finalize a sweeping budget package, dubbed the “big, beautiful bill,” ahead of President Donald Trump’s July 4 deadline — but key decisions about cuts to the health care program remain up in the air.
Powhatan dad gets another shot at American Ninja Warrior glory
Barry Boyd grew up in a cramped three-bedroom home with 13 other family members. When Child Protective Services deemed the living situation unsuitable, 6-year-old Barry and his two younger brothers were sent to live with their grandfather. But after that arrangement broke down, the siblings entered foster care, where they remained for five years. That challenging start helped shape the resilience and drive that now fuels his life as a competitor and father.
Investigation finds Rev. Barber did not misdirect funds to pay ex-wife alimony
An independent investigation into allegations that the Rev. William Barber II paid his ex-wife alimony from the finances of his nonprofit concluded the civil rights leader did nothing wrong.
Personality: Sherod Davis
Spotlight on the owner of Misfit Tattoo Society
When Richmond’s predominantly white tattoo industry didn’t provide an opportunity for Sherod Davis to learn the craft, he taught himself. Now, as the owner of one of Rich- mond’s Black-owned tattoo shops, Misfit Tattoo Society, he offers a safe space for apprentices to learn and his customers to feel at home. His shop opened in February 2024.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is denied bail after mixed verdict clears in sex crimes case
Sean “Diddy” Combs dropped to his knees and prayed in the courtroom after he was acquitted Wednesday of sex trafficking and racketeering charges that could have put one of hip-hop’s celebrated figures behind bars for life. The rapper was convicted of lesser prostitution-related offenses and denied bail as he awaits sentencing.
‘RPS Five’ reinstated in wake of pay dispute
“Reinstated! Twenty-nine years! Twenty-nine years! Reinstated!” The voice of Richmond Public Schools bus driver Cynthia Cole echoed through City Hall’s entryway Monday as she, four other drivers, and their supporters celebrated their rehiring following a tentative contract agreement between RPS and the drivers’ union.
Withers’ message still resonates in song, service and support for others
How refreshing it was to read your article, “Celebrating Bill Withers’ music, message through song and service,” about the legendary singer-songwriter’s daughter, Kori Withers, performing her father’s music at the Cultural Arts Center in Glen Allen.
‘Ayida’ at VCU’s ICA celebrates Caribbean culture and diaspora
The Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University recently opened “Ayida,” a group art exhibition celebrating the Caribbean and its diaspora, that will be on display through early 2026.
Virginia Union to induct 8 and 1992 basketball team into Hall of Fame
Virginia Union University will induct eight individuals and the 1992 men’s basketball team into its Thomas “Tricky Tom” Harris Athletic Hall of Fame on Friday, Sept. 19.
New York’s mayoral race a testing ground for a Democratic comeback?, by Clarence Page
A seasoned veteran of Chicago politics once told me that it often takes Democrats a couple of four-year cycles out of office before they can pull their fractious factions together into a winning coalition.
Between freedom and the fireworks
Juneteenth and the Fourth of July sit days apart on the calendar, yet for many of us, they couldn’t feel further apart. Both are marked by celebrations, but one party doesn’t feel like the other.
Richmond utility rates increase as new billing cycle begins
City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities customers will see higher bills this month, as new utility rates approved by City Council have taken effect.
State Democrats celebrate new maternal health care laws
“Moms, babies and families across the commonwealth will begin to feel the benefit of maternal health policies that fundamentally transform how Virginia supports mothers, babies, and families,” said LeVere Bolling. The crowd fanned their faces with handouts on the package legislation, which Democrats called “the momnibus.”
In the loop
Richmond Triangle Players and Firehouse Theatre stage “A Strange Loop,” a Pulitzer and Tony-winning show about Black queerhood, family and finding your “inner white girl.”
Maxine Jenkins remembered for a life of service, education and compassion
For years, Maxine Turner Jenkins was a major part in the beginnings and endings of Richmond residents’ lives. Through her career in education and decades working in the funeral business, Maxine Turner Jenkins occupied a unique place in Richmond, touching many lives before her death on June 26 at age of 85.
After outages, city and county officials seek common ground on water
Richmond and Henrico County officials agreed Monday on their commitment to ensure reliable water service for the region, but they have not yet settled on the best way to make that happen.
National Muslim convention to focus on faith, service and dialogue
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community will host its annual U.S. convention, Jalsa Salana USA, on Saturday, July 4-6 , at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, drawing attendees from across the country for a day of religious discussion, exhibitions and community building.
Union Presbyterian Seminary names new VP
Union Presbyterian Seminary announced a key leadership change this month, welcoming a new leader and honoring longtime staff. Tamica Goode began her role as vice president for finance and administration on June 23.
