First municipal African burial ground in city gets state recognition
Virginia officials will unveil a state historical marker next week honoring Richmond’s first municipal African cemetery, a site that dates back to 1799.
Wright leads Virginia Union past Winston-Salem State 31-13
Mark Wright led Virginia Union University to a 31-13 victory over Winston-Salem State University on Saturday, Oct. 5, at Hovey Stadium.
‘A Long Arc’ brings 175 Years of Southern photography to VMFA
From sepia-toned Civil War battlefields to vibrant snapshots of modern Southern life, a new exhibition at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts offers a sweeping look at nearly two centuries of photography in the American South.
VUU Panthers dominate Shaw University in Willard Bailey Classic
The Virginia Union University Panthers showcased a commanding performance in the Willard Bailey Classic, overwhelming Shaw University 42-7 on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Willie Lanier Field at Hovey Stadium.
VCU women’s soccer extends unbeaten streak
The Virgnia Commonwealth University Women’s Soccer team extended their unbeaten streak to five games after a 1-1 draw against St. Bonaventure in Atlantic 10 play on Sunday at Sports Backers Stadium. VCU remains undefeated in conference action with a 1-0-3 record.
William “Bill” Lucy, pioneering labor leader, dies at 90
William “Bill” Lucy, a towering figure in the American labor movement and a champion for civil and human rights, died Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, at his home in Washington, D.C., at 90 years old.
Leaders gather for veterans and military affairs discussion
On Oct. 3, leaders from across Virginia’s business, military and government sectors will come together at the Greater Richmond Convention Center for the 2024 Virginia Veterans & Military Affairs Executive Forum and V3 Awards Luncheon. Hosted by the Virginia Chamber Foundation, the event will highlight efforts to strengthen veteran employment and recognize organizations committed to supporting military families.
Virginia State bounces back with 35-18 win over Fayetteville State
After two consecutive losses, Virginia State University (2-2, 1-0 CIAA) returned to the win column with a 35-18 victory over Fayetteville State (2-2, 1-1 CIAA) on Saturday, Sept. 28. The Trojans used a strong offensive performance led by quarterback Romelo Williams and wide receiver Kevin Gayles to secure the conference win.
State Fair of Virginia returns with concerts, agriculture, family fun
The scent of fried dough and fresh-cut hay will fill the air once again as families stroll through rows of food vendors, games and agricultural exhibits. The State Fair of Virginia, a tradition dating back more than 165 years, is back at The Meadow Event Park from Sept. 27 to Oct. 6 with the theme, “Where Home Grown Happens.”
Native tree distribution event held at Mosby Memorial Baptist Church
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Virginia Interfaith Power & Light and Mosby Memorial Baptist Church gave away 200 native trees and shrubs to Richmond residents last Saturday.
Equality Virginia announces Brandon Wolf as keynote speaker
Brandon Wolf, a nationally recognized advocate for gun safety and LGBTQ+ civil rights, will serve as the keynote speaker at Equality Virginia’s Commonwealth Dinner. The event, the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, takes place Saturday, Oct. 5, at Main Street Station.
Virginia Union Panthers host Shaw University Bears in home opener
The Virginia Union University Panthers are preparing to kick off their 2024 home football season against the Shaw University Bears.
Second Presbyterian Church hosts speaker series on environmental justice
Second Presbyterian Church in Richmond will host a speaker series titled, “Rooting in Place: Planting Seeds of Resilience,” focusing on the intersection of environmental care and social justice. The series takes place Sundays from September through October, with events scheduled from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
New Life Outreach Church to host Unshakeable Conference in October
The Unshakeable Conference happens at New Life Outreach Church Oct. 2 through 6. Led by Pastors Carlos and Rosalinda Rivera, this year’s conference centers on a theme drawn from Hebrews 12:28-29, reminding participants that through Christ, they are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, according to the church’s website.
Colonial Downs ends successful season with big plans for spring
Colonial Downs Racetrack concluded its 2024 season on a high note, capping off 27 days of racing. The highlight of the season, Virginia Derby Day, took place on Sept. 7, drawing thousands of racing enthusiasts and families to witness top tier equine competition.
Sports Backers Executive Director Jon Lugbill retires
Jon Lugbill, the founding executive director of Sports Backers, will retire June 30, 2025, after 31 years leading the nonprofit organization. Since its inception in 1993, Lugbill has overseen the growth of Sports Backers into a leading promoter of active living in the Richmond region.
Commanders uniforms rank last in NFL fan survey
A recent study of NFL fan sentiment on social media revealed the Washington Commanders uniforms are the least popular in the league.
VSU Homecoming Parade route back on track
Virginia State University is set to bring back its beloved Homecoming Parade its full route for the 2024 celebration.
First Baptist Church opens registration for basketball, cheering
First Baptist Church is accepting registrations for its Upward Bound basketball league, open to boys and girls in first through sixth grade and its cheerleading league for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Early registration, which ends Nov. 1, is $70 for basketball and $80 for cheerleading. Scholarships are available.
Lasers and music collide at Science Museum’s Dome
Richmond’s night sky is about to get a lot brighter — indoors, that is. This October, the Science Museum of Virginia unveils its latest attraction: a series of laser light shows set to popular music, all projected onto the massive screen of its signature venue, The Dome.
Chesterfield honors local legends with inaugural sports hall of fame induction
Chesterfield County celebrated its rich athletic history Thursday with the inaugural induction ceremony of the Chesterfield Sports Hall of Fame, where 10 local sports legends were honored for their contributions both on and off the field. The event, hosted at the Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education, recognized athletes whose careers have left a lasting mark on the community.
VCU launches program to tackle pharmacy technician shortage
Virginia Commonwealth University is launching a program to train entry level pharmacy technicians, to address severe staffing shortages in pharmacies and hospitals across Virginia and the nation.
Flying Squirrels fall to Altoona Curve in season finale
The Richmond Flying Squirrels dropped their season finale to the Altoona Curve 5-1 last Sunday at Peoples Natural Gas Field in Altoona, Pa.
Virginia Union players earn CIAA honors
Virginia Union University’s Jada Byers, Reginald Vick Jr., and Shamar Graham have earned CIAA Player of the Week honors for their performances in VUU’s football game against Hampton University on Saturday, Sept. 7.
Cristo Rey Richmond High School names new president and CEO
Cristo Rey Richmond High School appointed Charleita M. Richardson as its new president and CEO, effective Nov. 4, the school’s board of directors announced last week.
New Canaan Church to host Live2Lead leadership summit
On Oct. 5, New Canaan International Church will host Live2Lead, a global leadership event organized by author and leadership expert John Maxwell. Dwayne Whitehead and The Whitehead Group will serve as local hosts for this event, which features a lineup of speakers to inspire, educate and equip leaders.
Health districts promote Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week
The Richmond and Henrico health districts are joining the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in observing Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week through Sept. 21.
Run Richmond 16.19 – more than a race
Want to run or walk through history? Run Richmond 16.19 may be the event for you. The third annual race happens this Saturday, Sept. 21, and offers a unique opportunity to explore Richmond’s Black history while staying active.
Sophomore set to preach initial sermon
Arterius G. Rollins, a 15-year-old sophomore at Goochland High School, is preparing for a significant milestone in his spiritual journey.
Concert series continues at Main Street Station
The City’s Department of Public Works kicked off its free “Music at Main” concert series at Main Street Station on Sept. 5 with a performance by Soul Expressions. The series will continue with two more shows Sept. 12 and Sept. 19, running from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Civil rights pioneer Sybil Haydel Morial dies
Sybil Haydel Morial, widow of New Orleans’ first Black mayor and a prominent civil rights activist, died at 91, her family announced last Wednesday.
Chesterfield County to honor 10 sports legends in Hall of Fame
Chesterfield County will induct 10 local sports legends into its inaugural Sports Hall of Fame this week, honoring athletes and coaches who have made significant contributions to the area’s rich athletic history. The ceremony is set for 6 p.m. Thursday at the Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education in Chester.
Partnership for the Future awarded $375,000 grant
Partnership for the Future, a nonprofit organization focused on providing college access and success support to under-resourced high school students, recently received a $375,000 grant from the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation. The grant, which will be distributed over three years, will fund general operating expenses to support PFF’s programs.
JXN Project and Library of Virginia unveil Jackson Ward’s hidden history
The Library of Virginia, in partnership with The JXN Project, has received a $282,975 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to support a new exhibition on the history of Richmond’s Jackson Ward neighborhood.
Virginia State University honored as Fulbright Institutional Leader
Virginia State University has been named a Fulbright Historically Black College and University Institutional Leader for 2024, marking its third consecutive year receiving this recognition from the U.S. Department of State.
Ruth E. Carter exhibition extended at Jamestown Settlement
The special exhibition “Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design” at Jamestown Settlement has been extended through Jan. 5, 2025. The exhibit, which showcases the work of two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter, has drawn significant attention since its debut in May.
Panel discussion at Saint Paul’s Baptist Church
A panel discussion on Project 2025 will be held on 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at The Saint Paul’s Baptist Church, Creighton Campus, 4247 Creighton Road. Jean Boone, publisher of the Richmond Free Press, is among the panelists.
Late surge falls short as Trojans fall to Spartans
The Virginia State University Trojans’ hopes of avenging last year’s loss to Norfolk State University fell short, as the Spartans held on for a 28-23 thriller on their home turf.
Mayoral candidates announce forum and debate schedule
In a joint press release issued this week, the candidates for Richmond’s mayoral race announced a series of upcoming forums, town halls and debates, providing residents with numerous opportunities to hear directly from those vying for the city’s top office.
Panthers’ Byers rushes for 105 yards but Hampton holds on
Virginia Union University running back Jada Byers rushed for 105 yards and two touch- downs, but Hampton University outlasted the Panthers 33-21 last Saturday. Hampton running back Elijah Burris was the difference-maker, breaking loose for 135 yards and two scores to lead the Pirates (1-1) to victory in front of 6,308 fans at Armstrong Stadium. “We played four quarters tonight,” said Hampton Coach Trent Boykin. “We played with a lot of energy and intensity. I was really proud of the way we played on both sides of the ball.” Burris, the second-leading rusher in the Coastal Athletic Association last season, was held to just 43 yards in Hamp- ton’s season opener against Morgan State. But the senior found his stride against Virginia Union (1-1), scoring two fourth- quarter touchdowns to seal the win for the Pirates. VUU quarterback RJ Ro- sales completed 3-of-6 passes for 114 yards and a touchdown, while Shamar Graham recorded a career-high 17 tackles, includ- ing 10 in the first quarter alone, for the Panthers. “We didn’t finish,” said VUU Coach Alvin Parker. “It’s something we teach our guys every day in practice, but today we just didn’t finish the game. You have to play four quarters, and we didn’t accomplish that today.” At halftime, Hampton hon- ored its 1994 and 2004 national championship football teams, both coached by the legendary Joe Taylor. Virginia Union (1-1) will have a bye week next weekend before traveling to Charlotte, N.C., to face Johnson C. Smith University on Sept. 21. Hamp- ton (1-1) will visit Norfolk State on Sept. 14.
Roadrunners fall to DC Cyclones, but make playoffs
The Richmond Roadrunners closed out their 2024 regular season with a tough 100-58 loss to the DC Cyclones on Saturday, Aug. 31, at Henrico High School. Despite battling numerous injuries and personnel challenges, the Roadrunners finished the season with a 4-4 record and have qualified for the first round of the playoffs.
VUU shatters records in 69-7 rout of Kentucky State
Virginia Union unleashed a record-breaking offensive onslaught in a 69-7 defeat of Kentucky State to kick off the 2024 football season Saturday.
Flying Squirrels’ final homestand against Akron
The Richmond Flying Squirrels began their final homestand of the season Tuesday night with a game against the Akron Rub- berDucks at The Diamond. Left-hander John Michael Bertrand (6-8, 4.50 ERA) started for Richmond, while Akron sent right- hander Tommy Mace (8-5, 3.75 ERA) to the mound. The Flying Squirrels will continue their series against Akron on Friday, Sept. 6, at 6:35 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 7, at 6:05 p.m. Friday’s game will feature a Groundbreaking Day Fan Fest celebrat- ing the future construction of the team’s new stadium. Festivities will start at 5 p.m. and include a commemorative baseball card giveaway, live DJ, photo booth, food and player autographs.
EcoFest comes to James A. Buzzard River Education Center
The James River Association will host its first James River EcoFest on Sept. 7, offering a day of river-based activities and environ- mental education. The event, scheduled from 1 to 6 p.m., will take place at the recently opened James A. Buzzard River Education Center at 2528 Dock St. in Richmond. EcoFest will feature free paddle tours, trips aboard JRA’s education boat “Spirit of the James,” a rain barrel workshop, and tree giveaways. Several local nonprofit organiza- tions, including the Capital Trail Foundation and Peter Paul Development Center, will participate. The event will serve as an open house for the Buzzard River Education Center, which opened in July. The facility aims to provide environmental education for students in the Greater Richmond area and improved river access for visitors. According to the JRA, the event is a celebra- tion of the James River Watershed, inviting the community to learn about local ecology and discover sustainable practices they can apply in their own backyards. Parking and shuttle transportation will be available at Stone Brewing, located at 4300 Williamsburg Ave. The EcoFest is sponsored by the Robins Foundation, ReMax, Troutman Pepper and Whitten Brothers Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram of Richmond. Organizers encourage attendees to register in advance for special activities through the JRA website at jamesriver.org.
Flying Squirrels to nest in CarMax Park
CoStar Stadium? Dominion Energy Field? Capital One Yards? If those were your guesses for which Richmond-based company will snag the naming rights for Richmond’s next stadium, we hope you didn’t place a hefty wager on it. The Richmond Flying Squirrels and their longtime partner announced Wednesday that the new Richmond ballpark and entertainment venue will be called — CarMax Park.
Virginia War Memorial honors 9/11 victims with Patriot Day event
The Virginia War Memorial will hold its annual Commonwealth’s Patriot Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11.
Award-winning author Meg Medina to speak at VCU
Meg Medina, a celebrated author and the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, will give a lecture at Virginia Commonwealth University this month. Medina, who won the John Newbery Medal in 2019, will discuss creative storytelling and its role in sharing culture and broadening perspectives.
Local talent takes center stage at RVA East End Festival
The RVA East End Festival has announced its lineup for Sept. 21, featuring headliners Victor Haskins & Skein and James “Saxsmo” Gates. The free, family-friendly event will run from noon to 9 p.m. at Chimborazo Park.
VMHC hosts history symposium
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture hosts the Conrad M. Hall Symposium for Virginia History 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 7. The event, designed for historians and the public, will offer a full day of presentations centered on the theme of Creation/Creating.
Folk Festival drops performance schedule for 20th anniversary
The Richmond Folk Festival returns for its 20th anniversary Sept. 27 through 29, with a weekend packed with performances, cultural displays and community engagement. The festival, one of Virginia’s largest events, is expected to draw more than 200,000 attendees to Downtown Richmond’s riverfront.
