First and second-graders from public schools in Richmond and Henrico County jubilantly jump while participating in the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia’s Book and Music Festival on May 9.

Each year when hundreds of art enthusiasts descend upon Byrd Park for the An- nual Arts in the Park, an award-winning show and one of Richmond’s largest outdoor events. The time-tested event recently celebrated its 52nd year. With its free admission, Arts in the Park’s nationally-rated juried art show featured more than 350 exhibitors from throughout country. Categories included painting, pottery and ceramics, jewelry, furniture, photography, woodworking, glass, metal, sculpture, textiles, yard-art and more.

Old wallpaper and vintage scientific illustrations take on new life in mixed media collages by Baltimore artist Kate Norris.

Current and retired Richmond Police officers, including Henrico Police Chief Eric English, join Acting Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards, right, on Sunday, May 7, in commemorating the hiring of Richmond’s first black officers 77 years ago. This annual ceremony sponsored by Engine Co. #9 and Associates was held at the Virginia Historic Marker at Leigh Street and Brook Road near the site of the precinct where the officers were first assigned. The marker reads, “On 1 May 1946, Richmond’s first professional African American police officers were hired and assigned to the First Precinct at Smith and Marshall Streets. They were Howard T. Braxton, Doctor P. Day, Frank S. Randolph, and John W. Vann. On 16 December 1949, Ruth B. Blair became the first professional African American female police officer hired and assigned to the Juvenile Division. On 18 July 1964, Sergeant Randolph was promoted to Detective Lieutenant. While challenged by segregated conditions and discriminatory practices, their perseverance created an inspiring legacy.”

Roses on Frederick Douglass Court