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New book asks: What if Harry Potter attended an HBCU?
It all began with a post on Twitter. It was 2020 during the height of the pandemic and LaDarrion Williams was thinking about the lack of diversity in the fantasy genre. He proposed: “What if Harry Potter went to an HBCU in the South?”
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It’s not too early to vote
Early voting has begun across Virginia, with locations open as of Friday, May 3, for Democratic and Republican primary ballots ahead of the primary election Tuesday, June 18.
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Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week of Saturday, May 11, confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Virginia dropped 90.4% from the previous week. Three deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported statewide for the week ending Saturday, May 11. COVID-19 wastewater levels in Central Virginia were below detection as of the week of Sunday, May 5. Free community testing for COVID-19 continues.
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Otieno’s family seeks federal intervention after multiple charges dismissed
The family of Irvo Otieno is calling on federal officials to take up the prosecution of those charged with his murder at Central State Hospital last March. The call comes following the dismissal of charges against five people involved in the incident that led to his death.
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Community businesses honored by Metropolitan Business League
Winners of 34th Annual MBL Awards announced
Against the backdrop of the Altria Theater Ballroom and a crowd of more than 500 guests, local businesses got their moment in the spotlight for the impactful work they’re doing in the RVA region. The 34th Annual Metropolitan Business League Awards Dinner & Reception was held Friday, March 8. The winners were announced recently by the nonprofit membership-based business association.
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Va. lawmakers pass bipartisan budget leaving tax policy unchanged
After months of partisan combat over different priorities, Virginia lawmakers approved a bipartisan budget deal Monday with no major tax changes, funding boosts for education and mental health and salary increases for teachers and state employees.
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10.5
NSU sprinter qualifies for Olympic trials
HBCU’s will be represented at the upcoming Olympic Track and Field Trials.
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The new guy
In this edition of the Richmond Free Press I introduce a new managing editor who I think inaugurates an exciting new era for this publication and for its readers in Metropolitan Richmond, the Old Dominion and beyond.
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TikTok sues to block law that could ban the platform
TikTok and its Chinese parent company are challenging a new American law that would ban the popular video-sharing app in the U.S. unless it’s sold to an approved buyer, saying it unfairly singles out the platform and is an unprecedented attack on free speech.
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Faith and family inspire local nursing student
With a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Nursing, Erin Norwood is ready to help others — and set an example along the way.
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Over 100 Virginia Commonwealth University graduates walk out May 11 as Gov. Glenn Youngkin delivers his 2024 Commencement address at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.
Published on May 16, 2024
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St. Catherine’s student awarded almost $2M in scholarships
After applying to over 30 colleges and universities, 17-year-old St. Catherine’s School student Ava Holloway was awarded over $1.98 million in scholarships.
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Remembering a year of turmoil — 1968, by David W. Marshall
The year of 1968 remains one of the most historic turning points in history. This single year was marked by historic achievements, assassinations and protests over a much-hated war.
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Commence the protest
Grads walk out on Youngkin at VCU
College commencements across Richmond began in dramatic fashion over the weekend, as graduates drew attention to problems with their schools, their leaders and their treatment of students.
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Richmond Folk Festival announces first artists
The Richmond Folk Festival returns to Brown’s Island September 27-29, celebrating its 20th anniversary. The initial lineup of artists for the 2024 Richmond Folk Festival includes go-go band Trouble Funk, jazz artist Lonnie Holley, bluegrass group Junior Sisk Band, among many others.
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Free community testing for COVID-19 continues
For the week of Saturday, April 27, the city of Richmond and the counties of Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover saw 17 confirmed hospital admissions for COVID-19. Two deaths associated with COVID-19 have been reported statewide for the week of Saturday, May 4.
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First AME pastor defends bankruptcy filing for FAME Corp
In response to the recent financial decisions, Pastor Robert Shaw from First AME Church in Los Angeles has issued a statement in defense of the church’s choice to file for bankruptcy protection for three of its entities: Fame Assistance Corporation, Fame Housing Corporation, and FAME/Good Shepherd Center Housing Development as of May 1.
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Investigation reveals more than 1,000 deaths from police use of non-lethal tactics
More than 1,000 people have died in the past decade after encounters with law enforcement, despite officers using non-lethal tactics, according to a recent investigation by The Associated Press, the Howard Center for Investigative Journalism, and PBS’ Frontline. The findings again show systemic issues within policing and raise questions about accountability and reform.
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Biden and Trump agree to 2 presidential debates, leaving VSU date in doubt
President Biden and former President Donald Trump on Wednesday agreed to hold two campaign debates — the first on June 27 hosted by CNN and the second on Sept. 10 hosted by ABC — setting the stage for their first presidential face-off to play out in just over a month.
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Debut concert at Henrico Sports & Events Center features bluegrass bands
The Henrico Sports & Events Center introduces its musical program with a bluegrass performance set for Friday, June 21.
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