Taking a RISC
It is gratifying to read Free Press reporter George Copeland Jr.’s article about the commit- ment shown by Richmond’s current and potential political leaders who attended a forum focused on affordable housing, mobile home repair and replacement, and gun violence prevention. Tuesday night’s forum, which drew hundreds of parishioners from more than 20 member congregations to St. Paul’s Baptist Church in Henrico County, was organized by Richmonders Involved to Strengthen Our Communities, also known as RISC. Such a turnout is incredible and worthy of several rounds of “Amazing Grace” performed by our Forever President Obama! During the RISC meeting, pledges from city Councilmembers Stephanie A. Lynch, Andreas D. Addison and Ann-Frances Lambert for an additional $2 million in mobile home funding in next year’s budget and a resolution guaranteeing money owed from the 2022-23 fiscal year would be added to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Ms. Lynch agreed to patron the Trust Fund resolution and to ensure a mobile home fund amendment would be in the budget if it wasn’t already there. She also charged the RISC members pres- ent to bring this same energy and collective organizing to other political offices outside the City of Richmond. “It is not in any way equitable, just or Christ- like that we live in a country with so much and yet so many suffering with so little,” Ms. Lynch said. “If you live in Henrico, you live in Chesterfield, you live in other localities, I want you to push your electorate and challenge your elected leaders to do the same.” Councilmembers Addison and Lambert agreed to co-patron the resolutions. Coun- cilmember Ellen F. Robertson also agreed to support efforts in improving affordable hous- ing and supporting mobile home repair and replacement, though she said additional budget amendments might not be necessary. The additional funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and the Mobile Home Re- pair Program will help address critical needs in the city. The focus on gun violence prevention through the Group Violence Intervention solu- tion also is commendable, as it has garnered success in other areas. Say “Amen,” somebody.
Trump making Black voter inroads. Why?, by Clarence Page
Reports that Donald Trump has made surprising gains among Black voters have raised understandable alarm among my Democratic-leaning friends.
No one likes to be taken for granted, by David W. Marshall
Realignment and transformation throughout our nation’s political landscape is not new.
‘What became of the Black People of Sumer?’
I learned the value of peaceful protest at Virginia Union University. I learned to stand up and speak up for issues that matter, in an atmosphere of civil discourse. I learned about the necessity of preserving and protecting our history while making more for generations to come. I learned these things through classroom teachings and through the role models I encountered on campus every day over the 10 years I roamed those hallowed grounds, and in the years since as an involved alumna. I learned the meaning of good citizenship at Virginia Union University.
Richmond Community Hospital: Finding compromise is possible!
There are incredible times in our lives when we should work as hard as possible to preserve old buildings to retain our sense of community and protect our history.
Zeta Phi Beta chapter to VUU: Don’t demolish historic hospital
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Alpha Phi Zeta Chapter has been at the forefront for social, health and economic justice in the Richmond community since its chartering in 1942. Upon hearing of the decision to demolish the Richmond Community Hospital the Executive Board of Alpha Phi Zeta Chapter unanimously voted in opposition of the demolition of this rich, historical landmark that has significant historical importance to Black people across Virginia.
A fast track to offsetting the child care crisis
National Preschool Teachers Appreciation Day was March 15, an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the community heroes who play an important role in teaching and shaping young minds.
Justices make All-State team
Success on the court has led to success at the ballot box for the John Marshall High girls basketball team.
Thomas named new Hampton coach
Hampton University has chosen Ivan Thomas to navigate its basketball program through what has been choppy waters of late.
Wood stands out in Nationals spring training action
Among the Washington Nationals’ brightest prospects has Richmond ties. Outfielder James Wood is the son of former University of Richmond basketball standout Kenny Wood, a member of the Spiders Athletic Hall of Fame.
Lunch and learn
First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin hosts Chef Patrick O’Connell for VMHC’s Julia Child exhibit
Virginia’s First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin hosted a media preview on March 14 in honor of the Virginia History and Culture Museum’s new exhibit “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life” on view through Sept. 2.
Dr. Dorothy Height celebrated
The Richmond Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the Richmond Section of the National Council of Negro Women will host the annual Dorothy Height Day celebration on Friday, March 22, at 10:45 a.m. The event will be at the historical markers at Hull Street Library, 1400 Hull St.
Lydia Thompson, NCECA works featured at BHMCC
The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia will host an exhibition opening reception for two new exhibits from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, March 22.
Let’s roll
RVA Hot Wheelz, a luxury car rental company owned by Dashia Oliver and Destiny Oliver, celebrated its grand opening Saturday, March 16, at 3107 Old Hilliard Road.
Personality: Meredith Hertzler
Spotlight on He She Ze and We board president
In 2016, family led Meredith Hertzler to reach out to the nonprofit He She Ze and We. She found a supportive community that she continues to rely on each day.
The City and FOIA
Following media reports detailing issues faced in obtaining timely responses to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and a $250,000 lawsuit filed March 1 by the City of Richmond’s former FOIA officer, the city plans to overhaul how it receives and handles those requests.
No comment unless we know what you’re talking about
Resolution changes how residents address City Council
Council members unanimously passed a resolution Monday night that will mean changes to its meeting rules and procedures — including some related to public comment.
Legislating with power and purpose
Jennifer McClellan’s historic first year in Congress
March 7, 2024, marked one year since Jennifer L. McClellan made history, winning a special election to succeed the late A. Donald McEachin and become the first Black woman elected to Congress from Virginia.
Housing Secretary Fudge resigning; Biden hails her dedication to boosting supply of affordable homes
Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge announced Monday that she would resign her post, effective March 22, saying she was leaving “with mixed emotions.”
