CIAA football preseason poll
Virginia State tops rankings, Virginia Union second
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association has released its 2024 football preseason conference poll, with Virginia State University claiming the top spot. This marks a significant improvement for the Trojans, who were picked to finish fifth last season but landed in third place behind Virginia Union and Fayetteville State.
Congressional symposium precedes MJBL Baseball Classic
The Metropolitan Junior Baseball League will host its 33rd Annual Inner City Classic and Black World Series on July 30 in Washington, D.C. The event starts 6 p.m. at Maury Wills Field, following the 20th Annual Bobby Bonds Memorial Symposium at the Congressional Auditorium on Capitol Hill.
Michael Vick to mentor young athletes at NSU flag football clinic
The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference is gearing up for its second annual Girls on the Gridiron Flag Football Clinic, with former NFL quarterback Michael Vick slated to make a special appearance. The event, set for Sunday, July 21, aims to introduce more young women to the growing sport of flag football.
Dr. JoAnn Thomas Wilson remembered
JoAnn Thomas Wilson, a revered figure in psychology and community service, passed away on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in Fayetteville, Ga.
Family activities and hoops highlight Henrico’s back-to-school event
Henrico County Public Schools will host its annual Back-to-School Kickoff at the Henrico Sports & Events Center on Aug. 9, offering a day filled with family activities, educational resources and a basketball tournament to celebrate the up-coming school year.
Veterans care centers get new wheelchair-accessible vans
The Virginia Veterans Services Foundation and the Virginia Department of Veterans Services announced Wednesday that the Disabled American Veterans Department of Virginia has donated four specially equipped minivans to transport residents of state veterans care centers to medical appointments.
Richmond issues water advisory for James River due to sewage leak
The Virginia Department of Health has issued a recreational water advisory for a section of the James River following a sewage leak reported on July 16. The affected area stretches from the Manchester Bridge (9th Street) in Richmond to Osborne Landing in Henrico County.
McClellan delivers $1.6M for domestic violence survivors
U.S. Rep. Jennifer L. McClellan, D-Va., presented YWCA Richmond with a $1,666,279 check Tuesday to support the organization’s services for domestic violence survivors.
City proposes solar farm, meadow on former landfill site
Richmond officials are seeking public input on a proposal to convert a former landfill into the city’s first solar farm and pollinator meadow. The project, which could cover up to 30 acres in the 7th District, aims to generate renewable energy while supporting local biodiversity.
Local First Tee team cinches Redmond Cup in thrilling playoff
In a nail-biting finish, First Tee Greater Richmond captured the 11th Redmond Cup presented by Troutman Pepper on Thursday at Belmont Golf Course. The local team emerged victorious in a playoff against First Tee – Greater Washington, D.C., after both squads finished the two-day competition tied at 165.
Spiders make splash with 2 CSCAA Scholar All-Americans
The University of Richmond’s swimming and diving team is proving they’re as sharp in the classroom as they are in the pool.
5 Panthers earn spots on VaSID All-State football team
The Virginia Union University football program made a strong showing in the recently announced Virginia Sports Information Directors All-State Football Team. Five Panthers have secured spots on the prestigious list, highlighting the team’s talent and depth.
Desirée Roots joins leadership team at ATLAS partnership
Desirée Roots, former co-artistic director of community at Virginia Rep, has joined the leadership team of the newly established ATLAS Partnership. Roots’ previous position, was eliminated during a recent restructuring of Virginia Rep.
‘Portraits’ exhibition showcases Style Weekly’s visual chronicle of Richmond
A new exhibition showcasing photographs from Style Weekly’s archive at the Valentine museum, offering a visual journey through Richmond’s cultural landscape from the 1980s to recent years.
Richmond Music Week returns for second year
Richmond Music Week, a celebration of the city’s music scene, will return for its second year Aug. 2 through 11 organizers announced Wednesday.
Popular jazz café secures funding for 3 more years
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts announced Tuesday that Dominion Energy has renewed its sponsorship of the museum’s free weekly jazz performance series.
From farmland to fun land: Henrico’s Taylor Farm Park now open
A new public park spanning 99 acres opened Tuesday in Sandston, expanding Henrico County’s recreational offerings. Taylor Farm Park, located at 200 Whiteside Road, features a variety of outdoor amenities and represents a $26 million investment in community infrastructure.
Free FAFSA assistance workshops at Capital One Cafes
A local nonprofit is offering free workshops to help students complete their federal financial aid applications for college.
Four-day Black Pride RVA celebration returns
The seventh annual Black Pride RVA, a four-day celebration of Richmond’s LGBTQIA+ community of color, is set for July 18-21.
Virginia Museum of History & Culture launches statewide education program
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) has announced the launch of a major statewide civics education program for middle-grade students as part of its 250th Initiative. The program, titled Civics Connects, is designed to provide a comprehensive, classroom-ready resource for Virginia students.
Hanover Tomato Festival returns for 46th year
The Hanover Tomato Festival returns to Pole Green Park on July 12 and 13, marking its 46th year as a community celebration.
Local playwright’s ‘Hippocrite’ brings church satire back to stage
“Hippocrite the Musical,” a gospel comedy that sold out its one-night performance last year at the Dominion Energy Center, returns for three shows on July 20 and 21 at The Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education.
Richmond entrepreneur advances in Black Ambition Prize competition
A Richmond-based food company has been named a semifinalist in the Black Ambition Prize, an entrepreneurial competition founded by Virginia native and music icon Pharrell Williams.
Freedom Reads founder Betts to receive top honor from Library of Virginia
The Library of Virginia will award its honorary Patron of Letters degree to poet, lawyer and Freedom Reads founder Reginald Dwayne Betts, the library announced Tuesday.
Trojans ready to roar: VSU men’s hoops unveils 2024-25 schedule
Head Coach Lonnie Blow, Jr. and his Virginia State University Men’s Basketball squad face a hard-hitting 25-game slate for the 2024-2025 campaign. The Trojans are set to battle through a schedule packed with thrilling matchups, kicking off with the much-anticipated Trojan Tip-Off Classic.
Local First Tee participants to attend Game Changers Academy in Minneapolis
Two teenagers from First Tee — Greater Richmond were recently selected to attend a national leadership academy focused on social justice and community building.
Flying Squirrels honor local history with upcoming games
The Richmond Flying Squirrels have unveiled an array of promotions for their ongoing home stand against the Harrisburg Senators, running through Sunday, July 14, at The Diamond.
Alvin Parker named Black College Football Hall of Fame National Coach of the Year
Alvin Parker, head football coach at Virginia Union University, has been named the Black College Football Hall of Fame National Coach of the Year.
University of Richmond professor receives fellowship for Black history research
Jillean McCommons, a University of Richmond assistant professor of history and Africana studies, has been awarded the Wilma Dykeman “Faces of Appalachia” Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship by the Appalachian Studies Association.
RIC recognized for excellence in airport management
Richmond International Airport recently won the Change Management Program Award from Airports Council International-North America.
Henrico completes its first section of the much- anticipated Fall Line Trail
Henrico County officials cut the ribbon Tuesday of the Spring Park section of the 43-mile Fall Line Trail. The 1,400-foot section is the first to be completed in Henrico County.
Virginia War Memorial seeks volunteers for flag removal
The Virginia War Memorial is seeking volunteers to help conclude its annual Hill of Heroes celebration, a tribute honoring nearly 12,000 Virginians who died serving their country from World War II to the present.
Roland Martin leads town hall on education reform
Nationally recognized journalist and author Roland Martin will host a town hall meeting on education reform in Richmond on Sunday, July 14.
NFL Players Choir set for Essence festival performance
The Players Choir, a group composed of current and former NFL players, is scheduled to perform at the 30th Anniversary Essence Festival of Culture on Sunday, July 7.
Local drag performers crowned with ‘Virginia Pride’ titles
Drag royalty was celebrated at the annual Virginia Pride Pageant last Sunday.
‘Red, White and Lights’ returns to Meadow Farm
Henrico County hosts its annual Red, White and Lights Independence Day celebration on Thursday, July 4, at Meadow Farm Museum in Crump Park, 3400 Mountain Road. The free event will begin at 5 p.m. and feature family-friendly entertainment.
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.
Former Ram Owusu Sekyere returns to VCU
VCU Women’s Soccer Head Coach Lindsey Martin recently announced the hiring of Owusu Sekyere as assistant coach. Sekyere returns to VCU after spending the past season as an assistant coach at George Mason. He previously served as a volunteer assistant under Martin for two seasons from 2021-2022.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Redevelopment and Housing Authority names new chief of staff
The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) named Kim Cole as the new chief of staff last week. Cole has over 20 years of experience as a housing professional, including executive positions at Inlivian and the District of Columbia Housing Authority.
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.
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.
Virginia Museum of History & Culture to host July 4th Citizenship Ceremony
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture celebrates Independence Day with its annual Citizenship Ceremony, welcoming approximately 75 new citizens. The event, held in partnership with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, begins at 11 a.m.
New exhibition explores race and community in Richmond
A new exhibition titled “Race in Richmond: Healing in Richmond” is on display at The Gallery in Main Street Station until June 30. The exhibit features two installations: “I See You – A Portrait Experience” and “I Hear You: A Speaking Experience.”
Tourism program seeks nominations for awards
Richmond Region Tourism’s BLK RVA program is now accepting nominations for its Community Awards, marking the initiative’s fifth anniversary.
