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 State stuns Benedict College 23-7
Virginia State University upset Benedict College 23-7 in the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic on Sunday, ending the Tigers’ 20-game regular season winning streak.
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.
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.
Local artist’s floodwall-inspired art featured on CVS products
A Richmond artist is one of four CVS Health employees nationwide whose artwork will be featured on journal covers sold at CVS Pharmacy stores and online.
Killer Mike among panelists for University of Richmond event
The University of Richmond will host a panel discussion on the future of free expression, featuring rapper Killer Mike among the panelists.
Richmond Kickers unveil massive new video board at City Stadium
City Stadium is about to get a serious upgrade. The Richmond Kickers, in partnership with Ivy Soccer Clubs and the RVA Sports Foundation, have announced the installation of a new, cutting-edge video scoreboard that promises to transform the match-day experience.
NAACP to honor civil rights pioneer with wreath-laying ceremony
The Prince Edward County Branch NAACP will honor civil rights pioneer the Rev. L. Francis Griffin with a wreath-laying ceremony next month.
Sportable and First Tee Greater Richmond partner for adaptive golf
Adaptive sports in Central Virginia are about to take a swing forward.
Tourism Foundation honors Black culture contributors
The Richmond Region Tourism Foundation recognized individuals and organizations for their contributions to Black tourism and culture at the inaugural BLK RVA Community Awards.
Norfolk State debuts in MEAC/SWAC Challenge with narrow loss
In a heart-stopping season opener, the Florida A&M Rattlers barely escaped the Norfolk State Spartans’ upset bid, squeaking out a 24-23 victory in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge on Saturday night.
Brown named executive director of the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU
Renowned curator Jessica Bell Brown has been tapped to lead the Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University as its new executive director.
Red Cross faces emergency blood shortage as severe weather disrupts donations
The American Red Cross is grappling with a nationwide blood emergency as severe weather, including the remnants of Hurricane Debby, has significantly impacted blood donations across the country. Residents in unaffected areas are urged to schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets to help replenish the critical supply.
National Museum of African American History and Culture to release first sports photography book
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) will publish its inaugural sports photography book, “Game Changers: Sports Photographs from the National Museum of African American History and Culture,” on Sept. 17.
Louisa NAACP to celebrate African American heritage
The Louisa Branch NAACP will celebrate Black History and Culture with Louisa’s 4th Annual African American Heritage Festival on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 pm.
Events to honor slave rebellions and black cemeteries
The Virginia Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality, in collaboration with the Shockoe Bottom Community Advisory Group, will hold a series of events to honor Gabriel’s Rebellion, the legacy of Black cemeteries and historic slave revolts in Virginia and elsewhere.
Indian fashion, entertainment highlighted at AKKA World Kannada Conference
The AKKA World Kannada Confer- ence comes to the Greater Richmond Convention Center Aug. 30 through Sept. 1. The 12th annual event will celebrate Indian culture with fashion, entertainment, and performances from notable Indian artists. The conference will open with a free parade 7 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 31. The parade will start at 5th and Leigh streets and proceed through the Jackson Ward neighborhood, cov- ering approximately half a mile. The event is expected to draw over 4,000 attendees. The conference will feature a variety of performances, including dance dramas, ballet, and singing. Vijay Prakash, renowned for his Oscar-winning song from “Slum- dog Millionaire,” will headline the event. Additional activities include sports such as cricket, pickleball, golf and chess, with prizes awarded to partici- pants. The weekend will also offer seven forums on diverse topics ranging from business to medicine. AKKA (Association of Kannada Kootas of America) aims to promote and pre- serve the Kannada language and culture, which has a history spanning over 2,000 years and is predominantly spoken in Southern India. Tickets for the conference are $250, which includes food, entertainment and networking opportunities. For further details, visit akka- online.org.
‘Exploring Human Origins’ exhibition comes to Union Seminary
Union Presbyterian Seminary’s William Smith Morton Library will host the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s traveling exhibition, “Exploring Human Origins: What Does It Mean to Be Human?” The exhibit will run Sep. 3 through Nov. 15, offering an opportunity to delve into the world of human evolution.
MJBL crowns 8 champions at Inner City Classic
The Metropolitan Junior Baseball League crowned eight champions at its 33rd Annual Inner City Classic national championships, overcoming weather challenges.
FAMU, Alabama State lead the charge in HBCU Preseason All-America team
Florida A&M and Alabama State are flexing their muscles early, dominating the 2024 HBCU Preseason All-American football team announced Wednesday.
Community meeting on Shockoe Hill African Burying Ground
The Shockoe Project invites the Richmond community to participate in a engagement session focused on gathering public input for the memorialization of the historic Shockoe Hill African Burying Ground.
Grammy-winning Arrested Development to headline 2nd Street Festival
The 36th Annual 2nd Street Festival returns on Oct. 5-6 in Richmond’s historic Jackson Ward neighborhood.
Walmart introduces testing and treatment services at Richmond pharmacies
Walmart has launched a new testing and treatment service at all of its pharmacy locations in the Richmond area, allowing customers to be tested and treated for flu, strep, and COVID-19 in a single visit. The program, now available statewide across Virginia, is part of Walmart’s broader initiative to expand convenient access to health care.
Down Home festival celebrates African American culture
The 33rd Annual Down Home Family Reunion, a celebration of African American folklife, is set for Aug. 17 in Richmond’s Historic Jackson Ward.
Virginia Derby on track for qualifier at Colonial Downs
The Virginia Derby is set to become a major player on the Road to the Kentucky Derby.
NASCAR’s Rajah Caruth teams up with Microsoft to turbocharge VUU
Virginia Union University just got a serious upgrade, thanks to NASCAR driver Rajah Caruth and tech giant Microsoft. On Aug. 9 during NASCAR’s Race Weekend, Caruth rolled into the Claude G. Perkins Living and Learning Center with a state-of-the-art driving simulator in tow, ready to shift VUU’s educational resources into high gear.
VCU Men’s Soccer adds 6 newcomers for 2024 season
Virginia Commonwealth University Men’s Soccer Coach Dave Giffard has announced the addition of six players ahead of the 2024 season. The new recruits, hailing from both local and international backgrounds, are set to join the Rams as they look to build on their success as defending Atlantic 10 Champions.
FXA Sports, Be Social Richmond merge to expand adult sports offerings
FXA Sports, one of the nation’s largest adult sports leagues, has announced a merger with Be Social Richmond to expand and enhance adult sports opportunities in the Richmond area. The merger will combine resources, leagues and sports options for a more comprehensive sports experience.
Metro health districts promote vaccination during national awareness month
As August marks National Immunization Awareness Month, the Richmond and Henrico health districts are launching a campaign to emphasize the critical role of vaccinations in public health.
Henrico schools expand student ID program
Henrico County Public Schools will roll out new multifunctional ID cards for all 50,000 students when classes resume Aug. 19, expanding on a transportation pilot program from last year.
Businesses and volunteers rally to support students’ back-to-school needs
Last week, the Seventh Annual Ultimate Backpack Supply Drive brought together community leaders, volunteers and business partners to ensure students are prepared for the upcoming academic year.
VPM marks start of construction on new Downtown headquarters
In June 2023, VPM unveiled plans for a cutting-edge headquarters in the heart of Downtown Richmond’s Historic Monroe Ward. On Thursday, community members and VPM representatives gathered at the future site at 15 E. Broad St. to celebrate the start of construction in a unique way— with a block party.
Richmond Flying Squirrels set to soar in 2025
The Richmond Flying Squirrels have announced their game schedule for the 2025 season, marking their 15th year in the league and the 40th season of baseball at The Diamond.
BHMVA earns national designation, secures $320K in grants
he Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia has been designated as a member of the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights Network, a program that preserves stories of the Civil Rights Movement.
Local songwriter contributes to Stellar Award-winning gospel album
A song by local songwriter Anthony “Junebug” Turner Jr. is featured on Ricky Dillard’s “Choirmaster II” album, which won two categories at the 39th Stellar Awards in Las Vegas on July 20.
Steampunk exhibition gears up for final days
The Science Museum of Virginia is counting down the final days of its “Discover Steampunk” exhibition, set to close Sunday, Aug. 18. The interactive showcase, which has been entertaining visitors since February, offers a unique blend of art, science and Victorian-era imagination.
Richmond prepares for Tropical Storm Debby’s impact
The City of Richmond is actively monitoring Tropical Storm Debby as it approaches the area, according to a press release from city officials. Although recent forecasts have reduced expected rainfall totals, the heaviest precipitation is anticipated to occur Thursday night into Friday morning.
Paralympic star Jenifer coaches youths at Richmond wheelchair basketball camp
Two-time Paralympic gold medalist Trevon “Trey” Jenifer served as guest coach at Sportable’s Wheelchair Basketball Camp last weekend.
Finalists for BLK RVA Community Awards
The Richmond Region Tourism Foundation on Wednesday announced finalists for the inaugural BLK RVA Community Awards.
Virginia Union’s Micah Kipruto wins HBCU Sports Runner of the Year Award
Micah Kipruto, a senior from Lessos, Kenya, at Virginia Union University, has been honored as the Men’s Cross-Country Runner of the Year by HBCU Sports. The announcement came July 27, recognizing Kipruto’s outstanding performance throughout the season.
VUU’s Byers makes star-studded HBCU preseason All-American team
Florida A&M and Alabama State are flexing their muscles early, dominating the 2024 HBCU Preseason All-American Football Team announced Wednesday.
Area health districts promote breastfeeding support during national awareness month
Richmond and Henrico health districts are highlighting their breastfeeding support programs as part of National Breastfeeding Month. This year’s theme is “Nourish, Sustain, Thrive.”
Richmond musicians receive $12,500 from Newlin Music Prize
The Newlin Music Prize has awarded $12,500 to 40 Richmond area musicians, recognizing past winners and nominees from its inception in 2022. This distribution follows an increase in prize money for the 2024 award and honor artists from previous years.
SAU retains accreditation as football program suspended for 2024-25
Saint Augustine’s University, the nation’s oldest historically Black Episcopal university, will retain its accreditation following a unanimous decision by an arbitration panel to reverse a previous ruling, school officials announced recently.
Juicy fun awaits at Watermelon Festival
The 42nd Annual Carytown Watermelon Festival, presented by Publix, returns to Richmond on Sunday, Aug. 11, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Union deal boosts pay for Richmond schools staff
Approximately 200 custodial and plant services workers at Richmond Public Schools have ratified their first-ever collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 322, union officials announced Tuesday.
Richmond Crusade for Voters organizes forums for mayoral and council candidates
The Richmond Crusade for Voters, the city’s oldest political organization, has announced a series of public forums to be held in August, giving voters the opportunity to hear directly from candidates for mayor, City Council and the School Board.
VUU track stars Hinton, Jones earn VaSID All-State honors
In a testament to their outstanding perfor- mances this season, Virginia Union University’s track and field program has seen two of its athletes named to the 2024 VaSID All-State Indoor Track & Field Team. Junior sprinter and hurdler Jalen Hinton, hailing from Chesapeake, secured a spot on the First Team, showcasing his exceptional speed and technique. Freshman Zachary Jones from Chester, made his mark in the throws category, earning a place on the Second Team. VUU Track & Field Coach Franck Charles expressed his pride in the athletes’ achievements. “I am very proud of both guys for getting rec- ognition,” Charles stated. “They truly deserve it, as they have worked very hard and overcome a lot this past season.” The Virginia Sports Information Directors selects these prestigious teams annually, rec- ognizing top performers across 44 All-State teams in 23 sports. The organization, open to media relations professionals from universi- ties and conferences throughout Virginia, also names an Academic All-State squad and crowns All-Sports champions in both University and College Divisions. Hinton and Jones’ selections not only high- light their individual talents but also underscore the strength of VUU’s track and field program. All eyes will be on these rising stars to see how they build on this recognition in future competitions.
Middlesex church to dedicate state historical marker
Antioch Baptist Church of Saluda will dedicate a state historical highway marker on Saturday, August 3, at noon. The ceremony will take place at the church, 159 Oakes Landing Road in Saluda.
VCU basketball faces tough non-conference slate
Virginia Commonwealth University’s men’s basketball team faces a challenging 2024-25 non-conference schedule, including potential matchups with five NCAA Tournament teams and two recent Final Four participants.
