# The Richmonder
> Local news that matters, with unbiased, fact-based reporting on the issues Richmond cares about.
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## Pages
- [2024 Impact Report](https://www.richmonder.org/2024-impact-report.md) - The Richmonder launched in Sept. 2024. This annual review summarizes the work we did in our first four months and our financial outlook moving forward.
- [2024 Voter Guide](https://www.richmonder.org/2024-voter-guide.md) - Information on candidates running for mayor, school board and city council in Richmond, Virginia.
- [2025 Impact Report](https://www.richmonder.org/2025-impact-report.md) - The Richmonder is pleased to offer our readers, donors and other stakeholders this look into our first full year of operations. For a printed copy, please email support@richmonder.org with your mailing address. On Monday mornings, The Richmonder’s reporting team gathers to catch up and make a plan…
- [About Us](https://www.richmonder.org/about-us.md) - The Richmonder aims to bring the community together through quality local news.
- [READ MORE: Richmonder coverage of code refresh](https://www.richmonder.org/code-refresh.md) - The Richmonder has provided extensive coverage of the effort to rewrite the city's zoning code. Read some of our past stories here: Project overview: THE NEXT 50 YEARS: Richmond’s zoning overhaul envisions a denser city. What will that look like?Leaders of the effort say density will mean different…
- [Contact](https://www.richmonder.org/contact.md) - The Richmonder is a member of and adheres to the best practices of the Institute for Nonprofit News. We are fully nonpartisan, and any mistakes in our reporting will be acknowledged and corrected within the original story. Emails * Editor, Michael Phillips, mphillips@richmonder.org * Journalist, Gr…
- [Contribute to The Richmonder](https://www.richmonder.org/contribute-to-the-richmonder.md) - We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which allows us to chase impact, not clicks. We are funded through the generosity of our readers. As part of our commitment to transparency, we disclose our donors. Donors are never allowed input or influence on story selection or content beyond that of an…
- [Donor List](https://www.richmonder.org/donor-list.md) - The Richmonder is recognized as a 501(c)(3) and all donations are deductible on federal taxes to the full extent allowed by law. We adhere to transparency standards set by the Institute for Nonprofit News. Our intention is that no donor will have any more influence on what we cover and how we repor…
- [Frequently Asked Q's](https://www.richmonder.org/faq.md) - What is The Richmonder? The Richmonder is a nonprofit news organization focusing on local news that matters to residents of the community, without bias. We spotlight the best of our community while keeping a watchful eye on those in power. We believe in being in the rooms where decisions are made.…
- [Work for The Richmonder](https://www.richmonder.org/jobs.md) - Current openings are listed below. Please apply by sending a cover letter and résumé to jobs@richmonder.org. The Richmonder has no openings currently. Please check back. About The Richmonder The Richmonder is a nonprofit local news organization dedicated to delivering independent, community-minded…
- [Our policies](https://www.richmonder.org/our-policies.md) - Editorial independence policy We subscribe to standards of editorial independence adopted by the Institute for Nonprofit News: Our organization retains full authority over editorial content to protect the best journalistic and business interests of our organization. We maintain a firewall between n…
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.richmonder.org/privacy.md) - At The Richmonder, we are committed to maintaining the privacy and security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect your data when you visit our website or engage with our content. Activity This website is hosted by Ghost. Ghost collects personal…
- [Thank you!](https://www.richmonder.org/reader-welcome.md) - We appreciate your support of local news. As you receive our newsletter, please stay in touch and let us know how we can best serve you. For our latest headlines, visit our front page. Close
- [Sign up for The Richmonder's free newsletter](https://www.richmonder.org/sign-up-for-the-richmonders-free-newsletter-2.md) - Our email newsletter hits inboxes at 6 am three mornings a week: Monday, Wednesday and Friday. There is no charge, and we will never sell or share your personal information. Learn more about us here. Join email list Sign up Completing registration... Something's gone wrong. Please try again. Succes…
- [Sign up for The Richmonder's free newsletter](https://www.richmonder.org/sign-up-for-the-richmonders-free-newsletter.md) - Our email newsletter hits inboxes at 6 am three mornings a week: Monday, Wednesday and Friday. There is no charge, and we will never sell or share your personal information. Learn more about us here. Join email list Sign up Completing registration... Something's gone wrong. Please try again. Succes…
- [Terms of Use](https://www.richmonder.org/terms-of-use.md) - Effective as of August 01, 2024 Key Points * The Richmonder is an authorized 501(c)(3) organization through the IRS. * Our bylaws require the disclosure of all donors, in the interest of transparency. Terms The richmonder.org website (the "Site") is comprised of various web pages operated by The Ri…
- [Thank you!](https://www.richmonder.org/thank-you.md) - We will reach out to you shortly! Back to The Richmonder
- [Tip Jar](https://www.richmonder.org/tip-jar.md)
- [Data Visualizations](https://www.richmonder.org/visuals.md) - Richmond Lottery Locations Circles represent lottery retail locations and are sized based on net sales: Majority Black Districts
- [Thank you!](https://www.richmonder.org/welcome.md) - Your contribution, along with those from more than 1,200 other Richmonders, will fund local news that elevates the community conversation. We are deeply grateful for your support. If you have questions at any time, please contact support@richmonder.org. Close

## Posts
- [Facing high levels of benefit theft, Richmond and Chesterfield among first to get new, more secure EBT cards](https://www.richmonder.org/facing-high-levels-of-benefit-theft-richmond-and-chesterfield-among-first-to-get-new-more-secure-ebt-cards.md) - Both the city and the county were chosen for the first round of card distribution because they experience some of the highest levels of benefit theft.
- [VCUarts dean to step down after tenure filled with achievements, controversies](https://www.richmonder.org/vcuarts-dean-to-step-down-after-tenure-filled-with-achievements-controversies.md) - Carmenita Higginbotham, who took the role in 2020, will continue working at the school as a professor.
- [Sept. 16 Newsletter: Connecting Manchester to the river](https://www.richmonder.org/sept-16-newsletter-co.md) - Plus, The Richmonder's ongoing quest for transparency in government, and what that has looked like recently. And a feature on longtime prep coach Stu Brown.
- [‘We mess up, we fess up’: Richmond officials acknowledge summer of problems with DPU bills](https://www.richmonder.org/we-mess-up-we-fess-up-richmond-officials-acknowledge-summer-of-problems-with-dpu-bills.md) - Inquiries to DPU’s call center nearly tripled after the late May rollout.
- [City Council approves redevelopment of Virginia Home into apartments](https://www.richmonder.org/city-council-approves-redevelopment-of-virginia-home-into-apartments.md) - Developer Audeo Partners proposed converting the facility into 131 apartments.
- [He coached the area's biggest prep teams. Now he's giving back at a small Christian school](https://www.richmonder.org/high-schools-browns-impact-has-been-felt-across-the-region.md) - Now Grove Christian's athletic director, he's 'giving back to the Christian community and getting to practice my faith every day.'
- [Move over, Scott’s Addition. Manchester could be getting its own urban trail and park.](https://www.richmonder.org/move-over-scotts-addition-manchester-could-be-getting-its-own-urban-trail-and-park.md) - “To live or work within walking distance to the James is an incredible thing and therefore, access to it must remain a priority for the Manchester community.”
- [Meadowbrook High School student left with life-threatening injuries after in-school altercation](https://www.richmonder.org/meadowbrook-high-school-student-left-with-life-threatening-injuries-after-in-school-altercation.md) - Police stayed at the school and will remain for the rest of the week.
- [As Richmond’s FOIA foibles persist, city claims it has no ‘Flock’ contract](https://www.richmonder.org/as-richmonds-foia-foibles-persist-city-claims-it-has-no-flock-contract.md) - In at least three cases in the past nine months, the city said it had no records relevant to a FOIA request, then changed its answer after getting a slightly reworded version of the same request.
- [NextEra promises new Richmond office tower if merger with Dominion goes through](https://www.richmonder.org/nextera-promises-new-richmond-office-tower-if-merger-with-dominion-goes-through.md) - The companies also said there would be stronger protections for existing Dominion employees in the Richmond area.
- [Sept. 14 Newsletter: RPS viral video investigation](https://www.richmonder.org/sept-14-newsletter-rps-viral-video-investigation.md) - Plus, VUU commits to saving the Community Hospital building, and another thrilling week of high school football includes a rare tie game.
- [Investigation into RPS ‘bite’ video found employee had no teeth](https://www.richmonder.org/investigation-into-rps-bite-video-found-employee-had-no-teeth.md) - Internal investigators found no evidence that an instructional assistant at Fairfield Court Elementary School bit the hand of a student.
- [VUU commits to preserve Richmond Community Hospital building amid community skepticism](https://www.richmonder.org/vuu-commits-to-preserve-richmond-community-hospital-building-amid-community-skepticism.md) - "VUU is willing to put that commitment in writing to bind successor owners of the property."
- [High school football: Trinity Episcopal makes statement in Week 3 victory](https://www.richmonder.org/high-school-football-week-3-trinity-makes-statement-in-win.md) - One of the better decisions from the Virginia High School League in recent years was to begin awarding power points when a public school faced a private school.
- [What happens if you skip jury duty in Richmond? We went to court to find out](https://www.richmonder.org/what-happens-if-you-skip-jury-duty-in-richmond-we-went-to-court-to-find-out.md) - In the last year, there were 300 cases of no-show jurors, according to data.
- [Birthday week: We’re different. Here’s why.](https://www.richmonder.org/birthday-week-were-different-heres-why.md) - When important decisions get made, we are often the only media outlet in attendance.
- [Birthday week: The importance of putting our money where our mouth is](https://www.richmonder.org/birthday-week-the-importance-of-putting-our-money-where-our-mouth-is.md) - In the past 12 months, we've spent $7,335 on legal fees, FOIA costs and liability insurance. We consider that money well spent.
- [Special-teams surprise helps Trinity Episcopal upend Hermitage 20-12](https://www.richmonder.org/special-teams-surprise-helps-trinity-upend-hermitage-20-12.md) - Onside kick key in Titans' road victory; Skogen has three touchdown tosses
- [Lockdown lifted at Monacan High, Gordon Elementary](https://www.richmonder.org/monacan-high-gordon-elementary-go-on-lockdown-after-notification-of-potential-threat.md) - “We take every threat seriously, and are investigating the source of the phone call.”
- [Sept. 11 Newsletter: A day of remembrance](https://www.richmonder.org/sept-11-newsletter-a-day-of-remembrance.md) - Richmond will allow school rooms to be named for donors, but not entire buildings. Also, Chesterfield begins a rezoning process for its high schools, and there's corn along the canal.
- [Richmond School Board approves selling naming rights inside buildings, but not for entire schools](https://www.richmonder.org/richmond-school-board-approves-selling-naming-rights-inside-buildings-but-not-for-entire-schools.md) - The policy includes a “morals and termination clause” that will allow the district to remove problematic names later.
- [Collegiate shakes off blip, rolls to 41-21 victory over STAB](https://www.richmonder.org/collegiate-shakes-off-blip-rolls-to-victory-over-stab.md) - Cougars quarterback Settar accounts for five touchdowns in Prep League win
- [A quarter century later, Richmonders remember 9/11](https://www.richmonder.org/a-quarter-century-later-richmonders-remember-9-11.md) - “You have not been forgotten, and I have not forgotten.”
- [Council votes to intervene in Dominion-NextEra merger review](https://www.richmonder.org/council-votes-to-intervene-in-dominion-nextera-merger-review.md) - “This is being brought forward because of our city’s absolute, unequivocal interest in the outcome of this proceeding.”
- [REGIONAL ISSUES: Downtown’s new homeless outreach workers have been there themselves](https://www.richmonder.org/regional-issues-downtowns-new-homeless-outreach-workers-have-been-there-themselves.md) - People who work in homeless services often observe that by the time someone is sleeping on the street, dozens of systems have already failed them. That experience can make it hard to accept help, they say.
- [Downtown’s new homeless outreach workers have been there themselves](https://www.richmonder.org/downtowns-new-homeless-outreach-workers-have-been-there-themselves.md) - Dangerfield sees his job as rebuilding trust, however long it takes.
- [Three proposed redistricting maps would send Cosby, Midlothian High School students to West Ridge](https://www.richmonder.org/three-proposed-redistricting-maps-would-send-cosby-midlothian-high-school-students-to-west-ridge.md) - The 2,400-student high school is set to open August 2027.
- [Sept. 9 Newsletter: Celebrating two years of impact!](https://www.richmonder.org/sept-9-newsletter-two-years-of-impact.md) - Before today's headlines, we reflect back on our second birthday, and thank you for supporting The Richmonder as we grow!
- [With 9 months until legal marijuana sales, a lottery drawing may determine who can set up shop in Richmond](https://www.richmonder.org/with-9-months-until-legal-marijuana-sales-a-lottery-drawing-may-determine-who-can-set-up-shop-in-richmond.md) - Another set number of licenses will be set aside for “impact” licensees.
- [Richmond wants to intervene in the Dominion merger. But the Council needs a do-over vote](https://www.richmonder.org/richmond-wants-to-intervene-in-the-dominion-merger-but-the-council-needs-a-do-over-vote.md) - A special Richmond City Council meeting to fast-track a vote didn't go as planned.
- [Sept. 7 Newsletter: Keeping Richmond great](https://www.richmonder.org/sept-7-newsletter-keeping-richmond-great.md) - Meet, Junior Martin, the Belvidere median dancer, a Meals on Wheels driver who has logged more than 400,000 miles, and other inspiring Richmonders as we wrap up our summer-long series.
- [Was that one of Richmond's greatest weeks of high school football ever?](https://www.richmonder.org/was-that-one-of-richmonds-greatest-weeks-of-high-school-football-ever.md) - With games ending with scores from 55-33 to 3-2, Week 2 was certainly one for the record books.
- [Power grid auction falls short of meeting 2028-29 energy needs, organizing group cites data centers](https://www.richmonder.org/power-grid-auction-falls-short-of-meeting-2028-29-energy-needs-organizing-group-cites-data-centers.md) - Dominion Energy also pointed to the retirement of fossil-fuel power plants and other constraints on the system.
- [At 85, Franck Boynton has delivered meals to Richmond’s neediest for almost two decades](https://www.richmonder.org/at-85-franck-boynton-has-delivered-meals-to-richmonds-neediest-for-almost-two-decades.md) - The white van he uses to make deliveries has logged over 400,000 miles and counting.
- [The Richmonder 25: Larkin Garbee contributes to Jackson Ward's thriving](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-larkin-garbee-contributes-to-jackson-wards-thriving.md) - Standing near the Maggie Walker statue, Larkin Garbee shared what she appreciates about her neighborhood.
- [The Richmonder 25: Junior Martin dances in the median to inspire you](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-junior-martin-dances-in-the-median-to-inspire-you.md) - People love what he does, and when you stand next to him on the corner, that love is made clear.
- [Huguenot announces its arrival by beating Highland Springs](https://www.richmonder.org/huguenot-announces-its-arrival-with-win-at-highland-springs.md) - "Tonight, we did what we knew we could do."
- [Robins Foundation, city support commercial beautification projects](https://www.richmonder.org/robins-foundation-city-support-commercial-beautification-projects.md) - The 25 projects will receive grants to make "visible, near-term investments."
- [Sept. 4 Newsletter: A slimming strategy](https://www.richmonder.org/sept-4-newsletter-a-slimming-strategy.md) - Plus, the mayor has some words for the Richmond Flying Squirrels owner, the latest on the RRHA situation, and another installment of The Richmonder 25.
- [Midlo bounces back with win at Freeman](https://www.richmonder.org/midlo-bounces-back-with-win-at-freeman.md) - "Our big talk this week was (that) we need to play as a team. We need to buck up and play together."
- [Virginia law requires school districts to submit a mold plan. Only 15 have.](https://www.richmonder.org/virginia-law-requires-school-districts-to-submit-a-mold-plan-only-15-have.md) - The law does not give the department enforcing authority, the VDH spokesperson said.
- [The Richmonder 25: Dr. Jeff Mapp goes the distance to provide pediatric care](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-dr-jeff-mapp-goes-the-distance-to-provide-pediatric-care.md) - "One of our focuses from a very early stage is how can we start to identify local practitioners, local nurses, local docs who we can work with consistently."
- [Avula to Squirrels’ owner: Stop suing and start negotiating](https://www.richmonder.org/avula-to-squirrels-owner-stop-suing-and-start-negotiating.md) - The Richmond Flying Squirrels and VCU missed a deadline set in May to resolve a contract issue over the Rams’ baseball team playing at CarMax Park.
- [Nearly 8% of Chesterfield employees are on Ozempic-style drugs. The county says they prevent costlier issues later](https://www.richmonder.org/nearly-8-of-chesterfield-employees-are-on-ozempic-style-drugs-the-county-says-they-prevent-costlier-issues-later.md) - This year is especially challenging, with premium prices nationwide climbing nearly 22% between 2025 and 2026.
- [City councilor wants third-party inquiry into alleged sexual misconduct; RRHA board chair says investigation was handled appropriately](https://www.richmonder.org/city-councilor-wants-third-party-inquiry-into-alleged-sexual-misconduct-rrha-board-chair-says-investigation-was-handled-appropriately.md) - "The question I’m asking is who is protecting the residents?"
- [Tom Allen: People are people —and ain’t it great?](https://www.richmonder.org/tom-allen-people-are-people-and-aint-it-great.md) - People can do some pretty cool stuff.
- [Sept. 2 Newsletter: Soaking up knowledge (and runoff)](https://www.richmonder.org/sept-2-newsletter-soaking-up-knowledge-and-runoff.md) - Plus, Lewis Ginter's workers go on strike, a Chesterfield lawmaker calls for a ban on Flock, and the latest on facility conditions at Richmond Public Schools.
- [Facilities Department had ‘haphazard’ processes and lacked work order controls, RPS audit finds](https://www.richmonder.org/facilities-department-had-haphazard-processes-and-lacked-work-order-controls-rps-audit-finds.md) - The department failed to use the maintenance management platform that was implemented about four years ago.
- [Richmond’s libraries have long been a place for soaking up knowledge. Now they’re soaking up runoff too.](https://www.richmonder.org/richmonds-libraries-have-long-been-a-place-for-soaking-up-knowledge-now-theyre-soaking-up-runoff-too.md) - Richmond’s public libraries have slowly been going greener.
- [Catching up: Flock cameras are generating controversy, but Chesterfield’s contract runs through 2029](https://www.richmonder.org/catching-up-flock-cameras-are-generating-controversy-but-chesterfields-contract-runs-through-2029.md) - As of its 2023 contract with Flock Safety, Chesterfield County is currently home to 88 of the cameras.
- [‘That’s what high school football is about’: The Battle of Chester celebrates its 55th installment](https://www.richmonder.org/thats-what-high-school-football-is-about-the-battle-of-chester-celebrates-its-55th-year.md) - "I couldn’t wait to be a part of the history."
- [Lewis Ginter workers will strike starting Wednesday, garden says it will remain open](https://www.richmonder.org/lewis-ginter-workers-will-strike-starting-wednesday-garden-says-it-will-remain-open.md) - In a statement, garden officials said they will operate on a normal schedule.
- [The Richmonder 25: Mollie Reinhart fosters connection through compassion](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-mollie-reinhart-fosters-connection-through-compassion.md) - Often prompted with a guiding question and encouraged to chat with someone they do not already know, attendees find a point of connection with those they are surrounded by, no matter the event.
- [Two-alarm fire shuts down multiple blocks in downtown Richmond](https://www.richmonder.org/building-fire-shuts-down-multiple-blocks-in-downtown-richmond.md) - Occupants of the First National Bank Apartments have been evacuated, with no injuries reported.
- [RPS closes Bellevue Elementary 'out of an abundance of caution' due to potential mold](https://www.richmonder.org/rps-closes-bellevue-elementary-out-of-an-abundance-of-caution-due-to-potential-mold.md) - The reports led to immediate air quality testing, of which the results are not yet available.
- [Aug. 31 Newsletter: Water windfall](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-31-newsletter-water-win.md) - The Richmond Crusade denounces the VA Crusade. Plus, a hot week is ahead, we announce a School Board debate, and this week brings several monster high school football matchups.
- [State could give Richmond $32.8M for water upgrades, higher than $20M minimum](https://www.richmonder.org/state-could-give-richmond-32-8m-for-water-upgrades-higher-than-20m-minimum.md) - The potentially higher funding number was revealed Friday morning at the first meeting of the Richmond Regional Water Workgroup.
- [6th District School Board debate set for Sept. 17, to be co-moderated by The Richmonder and VPM](https://www.richmonder.org/6th-district-school-board-debate-set-for-sept-17-to-be-co-moderated-by-the-richmonder-and-vpm.md) - The event will be open to the public at the Ann Hardy Community Center.
- [High school football: Week 2 features a loaded schedule across the region](https://www.richmonder.org/high-school-football-week-2-features-a-loaded-schedule-across-the-region.md) - The stage is now set for what should be a blockbuster Week 2.
- [The Richmonder 25: Retirement won't stop Dr. Joann Henry's passion for education](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-retirement-wont-stop-dr-joann-henrys-passion-for-education.md) - “We get a lot of letters from students saying thank you, and I made a difference in their life.”
- [Ahead of Run Richmond weekend, city officials cite progress in telling the city's unvarnished past](https://www.richmonder.org/during-run-richmond-weekend-city-officials-cite-progress-in-telling-the-citys-unvarnished-past.md) - Several major projects have debuted or entered planning phases in the past year.
- [The Richmonder 25: Meet the 2026 honorees](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-meet-the-2026-honorees.md) - The Richmonder 25 program honors the people who make us proud to be Richmonders!
- [Benedictine kicks off title defense with emphatic win](https://www.richmonder.org/benedictine-kicks-off-title-defense-with-emphatic-win.md) - Blue Ridge was held to just 15 yards of offense.
- [Newly-formed 'Virginia Crusade' draws rebuke from 'Richmond Crusade' leaders](https://www.richmonder.org/newly-formed-virginia-crusade-draws-rebuke-from-richmond-crusade-leaders.md) - The Richmond Crusade for Voters held a press conference to denounce a new group that it says is drafting off of its decades-long legacy.
- [50 years ago, Tuckahoe reached the Little League World Series](https://www.richmonder.org/50-years-ago-tuckahoe-reached-the-little-league-world-series.md) - The West End boys were playing with aluminum bats forged locally, at Richmond Metals Company on Broad Street.
- [Goochland County ends usage of Flock license-plate readers](https://www.richmonder.org/goochland-county-ends-usage-of-flock-license-plate-readers.md) - "This decision is not the result of any identified misuse of the system."
- [No longer a suprise story, Meadowbrook dominates in opener](https://www.richmonder.org/no-longer-a-suprise-story-meadowbrook-dominates-in-opener.md) - “This first game was a statement game because we plan to get to the playoffs.”
- [Aug. 28 Newsletter: Greening Scott's Addition](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-28-newsletter-greening.md) - Amazon gives us early details on its drone technology, plus what localities are doing to promote a 1% sales tax increase for schools, and the latest installment of The Richmonder 25.
- [Sophomore QB finds a groove in Manchester's season-opening win](https://www.richmonder.org/sophomore-qb-finds-a-groove-in-manchesters-season-opening-win.md) - The Lancers continued a recent tradition of success at the position.
- [Amazon shares details on drone delivery as it seeks final approvals in Richmond area](https://www.richmonder.org/amazon-demonstrates-drone-delivery-as-it-seeks-final-approvals-in-richmond-area.md) - Coming soon to the skies near you is Amazon Prime Air, the online retail giant’s drone delivery service.
- [Coming to Scott’s Addition: Bike-ped paths and a little more green](https://www.richmonder.org/coming-to-scotts-addition-bike-ped-paths-and-a-little-more-green.md) - For a decade, Scott’s Addition has been the closest thing to a concrete jungle Richmond has. Now planners are hoping a set of new projects could soften its edges.
- [At Benedictine, a new class prepares to chase a fourth straight football title](https://www.richmonder.org/at-benedictine-a-new-class-prepares-to-chase-a-fourth-straight-football-title.md) - Sam Faniel, a 6-foot-5 tight end, is committed to Virginia Tech. He'll lead a potent Cadets attack.
- [The Richmonder 25: Regina Chaney fights for fairness in housing](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-regina-chaney-fights-for-fairness-in-housing.md) - For 42 years, Regina Chaney has lived and breathed housing advocacy in Virginia.
- [New groups will lobby for 1% sales tax increase, as school districts aren’t allowed to themselves](https://www.richmonder.org/new-groups-will-lobby-for-1-sales-tax-increase-as-school-districts-arent-allowed-to-themselves.md) - State laws prohibit the localities from lobbying for its passage with taxpayer money.
- [Chesterfield postpones vote on using data center money to lower car tax rate](https://www.richmonder.org/chesterfield-postpones-vote-on-using-data-center-money-to-lower-car-tax-rate.md) - Attendees said the county didn’t give residents enough time to learn about the proposal.
- [Aug. 26 Newsletter: Mold at Obama Elementary](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-26-newsletter-mold-at-obama-elementary.md) - Chesterfield wants to use data center taxes to lower the car tax rate. Plus, changes at Richmond airport, and a new film re-imagines the Thalhimer sit-in.
- [The Richmonder 25: Shawntee Wynn stands by victims of domestic violence](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-shawntee-wynn-stands-by-victims-of-domestic-violence.md) - "She’s one of the nicest people I’ve ever met in my life. Really pure and authentic."
- [Chesterfield proposes using data center revenue to lower car taxes](https://www.richmonder.org/chesterfield-proposes-using-data-center-revenue-to-lower-car-taxes.md) - Henrico puts its data center tax money into a fund buoying affordable housing.
- [Virginia Union students reenact 1960 lunch counter protest in new docudrama](https://www.richmonder.org/virginia-union-students-reenact-1960-lunch-counter-protest-in-new-docudrama.md) - “Their story brings home the fact that courage is often necessary in order to achieve the freedom and justice that all deserve.”
- [Richmond airport will connect Rental Car Center to terminal](https://www.richmonder.org/richmond-airport-will-connect-rental-car-center-to-terminal.md) - The $25 million project will also build a small park with room for a food truck.
- [‘I’m frustrated’: Parents confront Kamras over mold at Barack Obama Elementary](https://www.richmonder.org/im-frustrated-parents-confront-kamras-over-mold-at-barack-obama-elementary.md) - The target reopening date is now likely going to be next Wednesday.
- [Amtrak service to D.C. will stop in Alexandria for 9 days in October](https://www.richmonder.org/amtrak-service-to-d-c-will-stop-in-alexandria-for-9-days-in-october.md) - The train company will offer bus service between Alexandria and Union Station.
- [Barack Obama Elementary will close indefinitely after mold is found in art room and on computers](https://www.richmonder.org/mold-found-on-laptops-music-equipment-at-barack-obama-elementary-as-school-prepares-to-reopen.md) - The school’s reopening is uncertain.
- [Aug. 24 Newsletter: Football is back](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-24-newsletter-football-is-back.md) - What do all the audit requests mean at RPS? Plus, a back-to-school event has given out more than 120,000 pairs of new shoes, and the latest edition of The Richmonder 25 series.
- [After a wild offseason, it's kickoff week for area high school football teams](https://www.richmonder.org/after-a-wild-offseason-its-kickoff-week-for-area-high-school-football-teams.md) - There is no doubt that the 2026 high school football offseason was one of the most consequential ever.
- [The Richmonder 25: Sarah Matalavage drives to improve literary access in the Enchanting Bookmobile](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-sarah-matalavage-drives-to-improve-literary-access-in-the-enchanting-bookmobile.md) - In 2025, she distributed 2,450 free books, ranging from board books to chapter books.
- [Know your audits: Why some RPS watchers want more than the district is currently providing](https://www.richmonder.org/know-your-audits-why-some-rps-watchers-want-more-than-the-district-is-currently-providing.md) - Between January and July, public commenters told the Board that the budget needed a forensic audit nearly 20 times.
- [Join us for an evening of good people, good stories, and good energy!](https://www.richmonder.org/join-us-for-an-evening-of-good-people-good-stories-and-good-energy.md) - All summer we've celebrated some of the best of our community, profiling people who lift us up and make Richmond a great place to live.
- [Entering his 80s, Dickie Foster is still officiating high school games across the region](https://www.richmonder.org/entering-his-80s-dickie-foster-is-still-officiating-high-school-games-across-the-region.md) - In three seasons this past school year, he officiated 169 total games in his three sports of choice.
- [Back-to-school shoe event celebrates 20 years, with more than 120,000 pairs given out](https://www.richmonder.org/back-to-school-shoe-event-celebrates-20-years-with-more-than-120-000-pairs-given-out.md) - “I know it's only one pair of shoes, but to a child, one pair of shoes on the first day of school is what makes them happy, because it made me happy.”
- [Aug. 21 Newsletter: Why young people can't buy a house](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-21-newsletter-why-young-people-cant-buy-a-house.md) - Richmond paid $375k on the election that didn't matter, there's a new plan for the Virginia Home, and Richmond High School for the Arts opens its doors for the first time.
- [UPDATE: Students at Northside elementary school get delayed start to school year due to mold in building](https://www.richmonder.org/students-at-northside-elementary-school-get-delayed-start-to-school-year-due-to-mold-in-building.md) - Students at Barack Obama Elementary School will have to start school at least one day late.
- [A new era for Richmond High School for the Arts begins with a $140M building. Take a look inside](https://www.richmonder.org/a-new-era-for-richmond-high-school-for-the-arts-begins-with-a-140m-building-take-a-look-inside.md) - RHSA will have a primary focus on the arts, offering classes like dance, fashion, theater and film studies.
- [Conversion of 95-year-old Virginia Home in Byrd Park to apartments gets thumbs-up from Planning Commission](https://www.richmonder.org/conversion-of-95-year-old-virginia-home-in-byrd-park-to-apartments-gets-thumbs-up-from-planning-commission.md) - “I think it is an attractive, iconic building that is worth saving. It is historic.”
- [State didn't send enough funds for nullified redistricting vote, leaving Richmond $375K short](https://www.richmonder.org/state-didnt-send-enough-funds-for-nullified-redistricting-vote-leaving-richmond-375k-short.md) - Richmond officials had to spend almost $375,000 in local tax dollars to run an unplanned election that didn’t count.
- [The Richmonder 25: Nikkia Young keeps Richmond running](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-nikkia-young-keeps-richmond-running.md) - "I'm so glad I'm seeing more and more people that look like me out on the road now."
- [Entering its fifth year, Run Richmond 16.19 invites participants to reflect on the city’s slave-trading past](https://www.richmonder.org/entering-its-fifth-year-run-richmond-16-19-invites-participants-to-reflect-on-the-citys-slave-trading-past.md) - The route will include information on relevant historical sites, as well as educational events scattered throughout the weekend.
- [Data: Housing is more out of reach and homeownership is down for younger Richmonders](https://www.richmonder.org/data-housing-is-more-out-of-reach-and-homeownership-is-down-for-younger-richmonders.md) - New data from UVA's Weldon Cooper Center shows housing prices have risen three times faster than younger workers' wages in Richmond.
- [Aug. 19 Newsletter: Baseball proposal steps up to bat](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-19-newsletter-baseball-proposal-steps-up-to-bat.md) - Ellwood Thompson's parent company is sold to a data center owner. Plus, Chesterfield schools catalog needs, and another installment of The Richmonder 25 series.
- [Baseball and soccer fields proposed at Lois Harrison-Jones Elementary after tennis facility falls through](https://www.richmonder.org/baseball-and-soccer-fields-proposed-at-lois-harrison-jones-elementary-after-tennis-facility-falls-through.md) - The program has roughly 700 children enrolled, which is the maximum the league can support at the current fields.
- [Ellwood Thompson's parent company acquired by data center owner](https://www.richmonder.org/ellwood-thompsons-parent-company-acquired-by-data-center-owner-as-stock-drops-below-2-cents-a-share.md) - The cash crunch raised “substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern” for the next 12 months.
- [Inflation, deferred maintenance contribute to $850 million in needs, Chesterfield school officials say](https://www.richmonder.org/inflation-deferred-maintenance-contribute-to-850-million-in-needs-chesterfield-school-officials-say.md) - As Chesterfield voters prepare to weigh in this November on whether to raise the sales tax 1% to fund school construction, the county’s school system unveiled a study last week that said it needs an estimated $850 million over the next decade.
- [The Richmonder 25: Christie Chipps Peters leads Richmond Animal Care and Control with optimism](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-christie-chipps-peters-leads-richmond-animal-care-and-control-with-optimism.md) - Peters still runs the adoption desk on Sundays, something she started when she was hired as director.
- [secret webhook test v4](https://www.richmonder.org/secret-webhook-test-v3.md) - beep beep
- [Avula administration drops duplex proposal in third draft of code refresh](https://www.richmonder.org/avula-administration-drops-duplex-proposal-in-third-draft-of-code-refresh.md) - “There will be many nervous residents that will breathe a sigh of relief when they see that update.”
- [LAST CHANCE: Free NYT Cooking or Games for a year when you donate](https://www.richmonder.org/last-chance-free-nyt-cooking-or-games-for-a-year-when-you-donate.md) - Your gift is fully tax-deductible, and new laws allow you to deduct up to $1,000 in charitable giving if you use the standard deduction when you file.
- [New murder-mystery graphic novel explores Richmond’s art world](https://www.richmonder.org/new-murder-mystery-graphic-novel-explores-richmonds-art-world.md) - The idea for Dash Shaw’s latest graphic novel, the COVID-era murder mystery “Like Swimmers,” began at the Lombardy Street Kroger.
- [Aug. 17 Newsletter: Community gardens](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-17-newsletter-community-gardens.md) - Richmond agreed to pay a tax refund after being sued. The city’s own lawyer struggled to get the money sent. Plus, Chesterfield says no to more data centers, and it's time to know your audits.
- [Richmond agreed to pay a tax refund after being sued. The city’s own lawyer struggled to get the money sent](https://www.richmonder.org/richmond-agreed-to-pay-a-tax-refund-after-being-sued-the-citys-own-lawyer-struggled-to-get-the-money-sent.md) - The city’s own lawyers couldn’t get the Finance Department to calculate the exact amount the taxpayer was owed and issue the refund.
- [VUU seeking city permission to develop Richmond Community Hospital property](https://www.richmonder.org/vuu-seeking-city-permission-to-develop-richmond-community-hospital-property.md) - In its proposal, the school said it will preserve the Richmond Community Hospital building, though neighborhood advocates are urging city leaders to ensure VUU holds to that commitment.
- [Richmond's community gardens are a hidden gem](https://www.richmonder.org/richmonds-community-gardens-are-a-hidden-gem.md) - Today there are 30 active gardens across the city, from Church Hill to the Southside.
- [The Richmonder 25: Lea Whitehurst-Gibson works to amplify Southside’s voice](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmond-25-lea-whitehurst-gibson-works-to-amplify-southside-richmonds-voice.md) - During her time in Richmond, Whitehurst-Gibson said she noticed that Southside Richmond often got left behind in the public discourse.
- [Five injured in overnight shooting at Virginia State University](https://www.richmonder.org/five-injured-in-overnight-shooting-at-virginia-state-university.md) - Five individuals were shot outside Virginia State University dormitories at 1:28 a.m. Saturday, with four people sustaining non-life-threatening injuries and one in critical condition.
- [ONE DAY ONLY: Free NYT Cooking or Games for a year when you become a Richmonder donor](https://www.richmonder.org/this-we-only-free-nyt-cooking-or-games-for-a-year-when-you-become-a-richmonder-donor.md) - Support nonprofit news and receive a one-year subscription to New York Times Cooking or Games. This offer is ONLY available until 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday (August 17).
- [NASCAR Notes: Rain delays Richmond truck race](https://www.richmonder.org/nascar-notes-rain-delays-richmond.md) - A rain delay postponed the start of the truck series race at Richmond Raceway on Friday night.
- [Chesterfield Board indicates it won’t approve any more data centers in the county](https://www.richmonder.org/chesterfield-board-indicates-it-wont-approve-any-more-data-centers-in-the-county.md) - “I don’t want any more. We have enough.”
- [Highland Springs student who became NASCAR's first Black female driver returns home](https://www.richmonder.org/highland-springs-student-who-became-nascars-first-black-female-driver-returns-home.md) - “There were times when I didn’t know if it was going to work out.”
- [Aug. 14 Newsletter: Westwood](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-14-newsletter-westwood.md) - NASCAR's first Black female driver returns home to Richmond Raceway tonight, an update on RPS hiring, a hotel shuttle driver who goes above and beyond, and the latest from Lewis Ginter.
- [The Richmonder 25: Shuttle driver Sean Hackney makes visits memorable](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-shuttle-driver-sean-hackney-makes-visits-memorable.md) - “That makes me feel good when you can make a change in somebody's life.”
- [Hallman: Denny Hamlin has turned from NASCAR heel to hero as his historic career enters its third decade](https://www.richmonder.org/hallman-denny-hamlin-has-turned-from-nascar-heel-to-hero-as-his-historic-career-enters-its-third-decade.md) - Hamlin has had a profound impact on the sport, both as a competitor and as an industry figure.
- [Lewis Ginter employees reject final contract offer, will vote on striking](https://www.richmonder.org/lewis-ginter-union-rejects-final-offer-another-pe-cancels.md) - Here's what comes next for both sides.
- [Richmond’s historic Westwood neighborhood has beaten the odds for years. Can it survive rezoning?](https://www.richmonder.org/richmonds-historic-westwood-neighborhood-has-beaten-the-odds-for-years-can-it-survive-rezoning.md) - The historically Black community traces its founding to formerly enslaved men and women who put down roots in the 1870s.
- [Aug. 12 Newsletter: This old boat](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-12-newsletter-this-old-bo.md) - The fired RPS facilities director is hired by one of the district’s contractors, a trip through the VMHC's closet, and meet Coach Loretta Watson, our newest member of The Richmonder 25.
- [For sale at Richmond marina: One of the last surviving WWI boats. Needs work.](https://www.richmonder.org/for-sale-at-richmond-marina-one-of-the-last-surviving-wwi-boats-needs-work.md) - It later served as a patrol boat in the legendary “Oyster Wars” that raged between Maryland and Virginia oystermen.
- [As NASCAR joins the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, we took a look through the museum's closet](https://www.richmonder.org/as-nascar-joins-the-virginia-museum-of-history-and-culture-we-took-a-look-through-the-museums-closet.md) - The Richmonder asked the museum what sorts of unusual things we might find in the collection, and the museum staff cheerfully sent us a long list.
- [The Richmonder 25: Coach Loretta Watson has been cheering on Richmond’s girls for 30 years](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-coach-loretta-watson-has-been-cheering-on-richmonds-girls-for-30-years.md) - “I grew up in the same projects that they're from. I know what it's like. I absolutely know what it's like to live in the projects and things happen.”
- [Free CPR certification program offered for RPS educators](https://www.richmonder.org/free-cpr-certification-program-offered-for-rps-educators.md) - The Virginia Department of Education mandates teachers to be CPR certified in order to become licensed personnel, and classes can run upwards of $150.
- [City posts map showing hundreds of planned road safety projects](https://www.richmonder.org/city-posts-map-showing-hundreds-of-planned-road-safety-projects.md) - The effort focuses on corridors where the city sees the most traffic-related injuries.
- [Fired RPS facilities director is hired by one of the district’s contractors](https://www.richmonder.org/fired-rps-facilities-director-is-hired-by-one-of-the-districts-contractors.md) - Hathaway’s new employers were informed that he is not allowed on RPS grounds.
- [Aug. 10 Newsletter: Preserving historic cemeteries](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-10-newsletter-preserving-historic-cemeteries.md) - Newly obtained documents show the RPS School Board overruled the superintendent after a facilities investigatio. Plus, there's a change in recycling policy, and meet the newest member of The Richmonder 25.
- [Emails raise questions over RPS handling of former facilities director’s resignation](https://www.richmonder.org/emails-raise-questions-over-rps-handling-of-former-facilities-directors-resignation.md) - Emails show that the School Board did not receive the first internal investigation into Hathaway until two weeks after the report was completed.
- [Slow, but steady, restoration efforts continue for century-old Black cemeteries](https://www.richmonder.org/slow-but-steady-restoration-efforts-continue-for-century-old-black-cemeteries.md) - “We want this to be a real model for other such efforts in Virginia and beyond.”
- [The Richmonder 25: Gabriela León-Pérez does research to offer real-world solutions](https://www.richmonder.org/the-ri-gabriela-leon-perez-is-bringing-the-academy-to-the-community.md) - Now a sociology professor at VCU, León-Pérez has made a concerted effort to bring her research beyond the ivory towers of academia into the community.
- [Downtown Bio+Tech Center will expand again](https://www.richmonder.org/downtown-bio-tech-center-will-expand-again.md) - One of the main tenants at downtown’s VA Biotechnology Research Park is expanding its operations.
- [The Richmonder is hiring! Do you have a passion for development work?](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-is-hiring-do-you-have-a-passion-for-development-work.md) - We're hiring! The Richmonder has posted two positions, and we'd love for you to share them with anybody you think might be a good fit.
- [Paper cups, pizza boxes now OK to recycle in Richmond](https://www.richmonder.org/paper-cups-pizza-boxes-now-ok-to-recycle-in-richmond.md) - Paper cups have become more common now that styrofoam is banned in Virginia.
- [The Richmonder will offer public notices soon, pending court approval](https://www.richmonder.org/legal-notice-information.md) - Learn more about The Richmonder's intent to publish legal notices.
- [Aug. 7 Newsletter: Unclaimed scholarships](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-7-newsletter-unclaimed-scholarships.md) - Inside the contentious debate over new roads in Shockoe Valley. Plus, an update on tax collections, the latest The Richmonder 25 honoree, and a look at VPM's new space on Broad Street.
- [Contentious meeting ends with approval for Shockoe Valley street plan](https://www.richmonder.org/contentious-meeting-ends-with-approval-for-shockoe-valley-street-plan.md) - “I will support this project, but I feel held hostage in a lot of ways, and I resent that.”
- [The Richmonder 25: LaDonna Lewis ensures no young woman feels alone while battling breast cancer](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-ladonna-lewis-ensures-no-young-woman-feels-alone-while-battling-breast-cancer.md) - Born and raised in Richmond, Lewis lost her mother to breast cancer when she was just 10 years old.
- [Monthly report shows spike in delinquent taxes, but history says the money is on the way](https://www.richmonder.org/monthly-report-shows-spike-in-delinquent-taxes-but-history-says-the-money-is-on-the-way.md) - Avula hinted at a resumption of delinquent property sales.
- [Chesterfield’s own Li’l Sebastian? Miniature horse has returned home](https://www.richmonder.org/chesterfields-own-lil-sebastian-miniature-horse-is-currently-at-large.md) - Online commenters have nicknamed it “chunky baby.”
- [Judge finds Richmond School Board member defamed former rival, awards $100 in damages](https://www.richmonder.org/judge-finds-richmond-school-board-member-defamed-former-rival-awards-100-in-damages.md) - A week after Jafari’s post, he narrowly defeated Sherman.
- [Chesterfield celebrates second ribbon-cutting in one week at Bensley Elementary School](https://www.richmonder.org/chesterfield-celebrates-second-ribbon-cutting-in-one-week-at-bensley-elementary-school.md) - The $52 million project nearly doubles the original Bensley’s capacity.
- [UR has a pile of money set aside for the children of Hungarian Reformed Church ministers. It can’t find any takers](https://www.richmonder.org/ur-has-a-pile-of-money-set-aside-for-the-children-of-hungarian-reformed-church-ministers-it-cant-find-any-takers.md) - Only one student has met the criteria and received the scholarship recently, despite several attempts to advertise it to eligible groups.
- [Tom Allen: Mother Nature is a Mean Biker Chick](https://www.richmonder.org/tom-allen-mother-nature-is-a-mean-biker-chick.md) - Animals have a long history of following Mother Nature’s instructions to give me the cold shoulder, even ones that belong to shoulder-less species
- [Aug. 5 Newsletter: Dumping waste](https://www.richmonder.org/aug-5-newsletter-dumping-waste.md) - A School Board candidate is already close to a fundraising record, the third (and possibly final) code refresh draft comes out in two weeks, and meet our latest Richmonder 25 honoree.
- [Incumbent LeQuan Hylton wins special election to Chesterfield Board of Supervisors](https://www.richmonder.org/incumbent-lequan-hylton-wins-special-election-to-chesterfield-board-of-supervisors.md) - “Everything we touch should be improved. That’s my goal for the Dale District.”
- [Third draft of code refresh to be released Aug. 17](https://www.richmonder.org/third-draft-of-code-refresh-to-be-released-aug-17.md) - Among the key decisions the draft will resolve are how many housing units will be allowed on a single residential lot, how places of worship should be zoned and how many unrelated people can make up a household.
- [The Richmonder 25: ‘Silly Genius’ is creating a city where everyone can be a creator](https://www.richmonder.org/the-richmonder-25-silly-genius-is-creating-a-city-where-everyone-can-be-a-creator.md) - He wants Richmond to be the place he moved to; a top city for the arts that is also affordable for the artists making it that way.

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