Richmond Free Press May 1-3,2025 edition

Richmond Free Press

By Charlotte Rene Woods

Republican candidate calls out anti-gay bias

John Reid defies calls to exit race, accuses Youngkin of smear tactics

Amid a political firestorm, John Reid’s continued campaign for lieutenant governor — the first time an openly gay candidate of any party has run for statewide election in Virginia — represents a litmus test at the intersection of politics, sexuality, gender and privacy in the digital age.

After a Tumblr account with the same name as Reid’s shared sexually explicit images of men, Gov. Glenn Youngkin asked Reid to drop out of the race last Friday. Reid, who wasn’t in any of the online photos and has denied the account is his, refused, saying he “won’t back down.” He also accused Youngkin’s PAC of extortion and some members of his party of attacking him because of his sexual identity.

Council keeps raises in place in proposed Richmond budget

By George Copeland Jr.

After weeks of discussion, Richmond’s proposed $3 billion budget for fiscal year 2026 is moving toward approval with only modest changes from City Council, including keeping salary increases for the city’s highest-paid employees.

Another hours-long budget work session Monday afternoon saw council members approve a number of reductions and enhancements to the budget agreed to by both City Council and Mayor Danny Avula’s administration.

Approved council amendments included budget enhancements restoring funding for nonprofit partners, as well as funding for eviction diversion, right to counsel and family crisis services. Around $1.7 million in funding also was proposed for projects approved through the Richmond People’s Budget.

Proposed reductions included half a million in funding to the Richmond Resilience Initiative, alongside removing vacant positions in the Office of Community Wealth Building, General Registrar’s Office and the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities, among others.

The proposed 3.25% salary raise remained unchanged in the budget, despite efforts by Sarah Abubaker, 4th District, to address concerns about including the city’s highest-paid officials, particularly in light of financial warnings raised about Richmond’s future.

“Throughout this process, I have offered multiple compromise proposals to prioritize underpaid workers while allowing for raises across the board,” Abubaker said. “Each time the administration said ‘no,’ insisting on full raises for all without any flexibility.”

The budget work session included a new amendment from Abubaker proposing salary reductions for positions earning more than $175,000. While several council members thanked her for the effort, there was no consensus to move the amendment forward.

“You have tried to make us realize that things are not fair at City Hall, and it’s not,” said Reva Trammell, 8th District, who noted the raises were in talks before the new administration

“Let’s be honest: It’s because I’m openly gay and I have never bowed down to the establishment and I will not,” Reid said in a video response. So-called sex scandals involving heterosexual men are not new in U.S. politics. From dozens of members of Congress to presidents, including Thomas Jeffferson, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, most of their political careers survived scrutiny from constituents and colleagues.

The same isn’t generally true for women in the political arena, where cultural norms about gender and sexuality have often prompted heightened scrutiny and scorn for female candidates and lawmakers.

Former California congresswoman Katie Hill resigned after her nude images were shared on

Henrico, Hanover test water, fault Richmond over fluoride mishap

By George Copeland Jr.

Elevated fluoride levels at Richmond’s water treatment plant last week prompted Henrico and Hanover counties to test their water systems and publicly criticize the City for what they called a delayed and insufficient response.

Statements from Henrico and Hanover County on Monday revealed water supply testing had occurred in both locali-

ties after they were alerted by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management about the incident late Sunday night. Richmond officials contacted the counties about an hour after state officials.

“We are disappointed by the lack of timely communication from the City of Richmond, especially in light of the chal-

Federal government restores Virginia student visa records

Record reversals affect at least 40 Virginia students, graduates their legal statuses restored, according to Interim Vice President for Communications and Marketing Mark Owczarski.

By Megan Pauly VPM

President Donald Trump’s administration is reinstating international student visa records that it previously revoked. The announcement was made Friday, amid a slew of court cases filed by impacted students in recent weeks.

Attorneys for the students argued the cancellations were unlawful since many students weren’t given a clear reason for the terminations. Others were told they had criminal records, which consisted of parking tickets or other low-level violations with civil penalties — and even some cases where students were the victims, not the perpetrators.

VPM News previously reported that at least 40 Virginia college students and recent graduates had been impacted.

By April 14, all 19 affected students at Virginia Tech had

The university announced the record restoration process was underway Friday. Owczarski said 11 of the 19 had their records restored that day. He

told VPM News that students remained enrolled at Virginia Tech throughout the changes to their legal status.

“When students learned of their change in legal status, we met with each one and helped them understand their options so that their academic status and course work had the least impact possible,” Owczarski said in a statement. Of the 15 George Mason University students impacted by the Trump administration’s recent actions, 14 also have had

Digging in

Mayor Avula

Julianne Tripp Hillian/Richmond Free Press

The exterior of Richmond’s wastewater treatment facility on April 30.

Julianne Tripp Hillian/Richmond Free Press

Julianne Tripp Hillian/Richmond Free Press

Virginia Commonwealth University student Sereen Haddad speaks at a protest on the VCU campus on April 14. Haddad, one of the protest organizers, called for VCU to refuse cooperation with federal immigration enforcement actions.

City cuts back on p-cards, overhauls purchasing program

Free Press staff report

The City of Richmond is making major changes to its purchasing card (p-card) program, reducing the number of cards in circulation by more than 80% and tightening restrictions on what they can be used to buy.

Mayor Danny Avula announced the reset Monday, citing the need to overhaul the program and restore public confidence. As of May 9, the number of city-issued p-cards will be cut from 320 to about 60, and purchases will be limited to only those deemed critical to public health, safety or essential services. Cards may also be used in cases where no other payment method is available.

“P-cards are a best practice, but Richmond’s p-card program needs a reset,” Mayor Avula said in a statement. “So today, I’m turning off the vast majority of p-cards and placing new purchasing restrictions on the remaining cards. We’ll take the next few months to reassess, retool and reboot the program in an effective way that really serves Richmonders.”

The Department of Procurement Services (DPS) will lead the reset, which is expected to last 60 to 90 days. During that time, the agency will work with the Institute for Public Procurement (NIGP), a national organization specializing in procurement best practices, to assess the city’s program and recommend improvements.

In the interim, travel-related purchases will not be permitted using p-cards, and city employees will be required to follow existing travel advance and reimbursement policies. Amazon purchases will no longer be allowed, and food purchases are prohibited except when supporting mission-critical programs such as summer food programs and after-school meal services. Department directors will no longer be issued cards, a move officials say will allow them to focus more on purchase approvals rather than direct spending.

The city contracted NIGP to conduct an independent review of the p-card program on April 22. The group is expected to provide a full set of recommendations for improving the city’s procurement practices following its assessment.

“My team and I are absolutely committed to creating the most efficient procurement p-card program as possible — for the City of Richmond, the people we do business with and the residents we serve,” said Rene Almaraz, director of the Department of Procurement Services.

In preparation for the program’s relaunch, DPS will revise policies and procedures based on the recommendations from NIGP, provide training for staff, and implement an AI-supported third-party auditing tool. The department also plans to investigate new revenue opportunities through the rebate structure, evaluate other p-card providers, and update city policies related to travel and discretionary spending.

The reset period will end only after all updated policies have been implemented, staff training is complete, and a decision has been made regarding the card provider. City officials say the new p-card policies will be made public once finalized.

Early

voting

Early in-person voting for the June 17, primary election starts Friday, May 2, and continues through Saturday, June 14. Richmond voters can cast their ballots at the Office of Elections, at 2134 W. Laburnum Ave. City Hall, at 900 E. Broad St. and Hickory Hill Community Center at 3000 E. Belt Blvd. will open for early voting Monday, June 2.

Voting hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with additional Saturday hours on June 7 and June 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Henrico County residents can vote at the Henrico Western Government Center at 4305 E. Parham Road and the Eastern Government Center at 3820 Nine Mile Road from Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. starting Friday, May 2. The Varina Library at 1875 New Market Road will open a voting location starting Monday, June 2, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All locations also will be open on Saturday, June 7, and June 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Five mail drop boxes will be accessible at the Administration Annex building at the Henrico Western Government Center, the Eastern Government Center, Deep Run Park Recreation Center at 9900 Ridgefield Pkwy., the Varina Library and the Tuckahoe Area Library at 1901 Starling Drive. Chesterfield County will host early voting at the Central Library at 7051 Lucy Corr Blvd. starting Friday, May 2 until Saturday, June 14, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, June 7, and June 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A drop box for mail-in ballots and curbside voting for those with disabilities or those age 65 and older also will be available. Another drop box will be available at the Office of the General Registrar at 9848 Lori Road from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m Monday, May 2, to Friday, June 13, and Saturdays, June 7 and 14, and Monday, June 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

These options won’t be available Monday, May 26, as the Office of the General Registrar will be closed for Memorial Day. Early voting in Hanover County will begin Friday, May 2, in the Wickham Building at the Hanover Courthouse Government Complex at 7497 County Complex Road from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday, June 7, and 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Curbside voting options available for handicapped and voters over the age of 65 will be available.

A ballot drop off station will be on site at the Wickham Building from Friday, May 2, until Tuesday, June 17, at 7 p.m. No excuse is needed to vote early in Virginia. Bring an acceptable form of ID or be prepared to sign an ID confirmation statement. For more information, visit elections.virginia.gov.

Cityscape

Judge orders extended hearing in whistleblower case against Richmond

By George Copeland Jr.

A Richmond judge has set a May 27 hearing to resolve ongoing discovery disputes in a $250,000 whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former public information manager who says she was fired for refusing to violate state transparency laws.

Attorneys for the City of Richmond and plaintiff Connie Clay are expected to spend several hours discussing motions related to protective orders, subpoenas, depositions and access to Clay’s medical record. The hearing, initially expected to last an hour when discussions began Tuesday morning, is now scheduled to run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Richmond Circuit Court.

Tuesday’s hearing was the latest development in the suit since a motion to dismiss Clay’s suit was dismissed by Judge

Claire Cardwell in early February. Clay, who previously served as the city’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) officer, alleges she was terminated in January 2023 in retaliation for reporting and refusing to participate in what she describes as illegal and unethical handling of FOIA requests. Her lawsuit names the city and former spokesperson Petula Burks, claiming they enabled a “chaotic and mismanaged” records process that violated Virginia law. She further alleges city officials interfered in FOIA responses and disregarded her warnings. During her time in the role,

Clay says she was sued twice over public records requests.

While the May 27 hearing was set to last only an hour, discussion between the attorneys and judge brought up other concerns that would take longer to address, extending the length of the future discussion over the course of an otherwise short hearing. Concerns from both legal teams about challenges in communication and resolving issues outside of court at times led to tense exchanges, prompting Cardwell to again urge the attorneys to address their disagreements more cooperatively.

“I understand strong advocacy,” Cardwell said. “I would besiege counsel on both sides to start anew.”

Attorneys for both sides also are scheduled to confer by phone 11 a.m. Monday to address pending issues.

VUU reaches settlement with plaintiffs in 2023 data breach

By George Copeland Jr.

A lawsuit over Virginia Union University’s handling of a 2023 data breach appears to have ended two weeks ago after both sides filed a joint notice of settlement and a motion to pause further proceedings. The terms of the settlement were not disclosed.

“Plaintiffs Ali Mgaresh and Jeffrey Minter and Defendant Virginia Union University, hereby notify the Court that the Parties have reached an individual settlement which resolves this case in its entirety,” the April 14 filing reads.

The suit, filed last year by attorneys from Wise Law Firm and Strauss Borelli on behalf of former student applicants Ali Mgaresh and Jeffrey Minter, focuses on the school’s failure to prevent a February 2023 data breach and to notify potential, current and former students “without unreasonable delay,” as required by state law.

case

According to Virginia Union University, an investigation revealed in April last year that some individuals’ information was accessed. The compromised data includes full names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, state identification cards and driver’s license numbers.

“VUU has no evidence that any data has been misused. Nevertheless, VUU encourages impacted individuals to take actions to help protect their personal information,” VUU stated in a notice on the breach in May last year.

“VUU remains fully committed to maintaining the privacy of personal information in its possession and has taken many precautions to safeguard it.” VUU officials and attorneys of firms representing Mgaresh and Minter declined to comment or didn’t respond to inquiries ahead of publication.

English appointed to National PAL Chiefs’ and Sheriffs’ Council

Free Press staff report

Henrico County Police Department Col. Eric D. English has been selected as a founding member of the National Police Activities/Athletic League’s (PAL) Chiefs’ and Sheriffs’ Council. English took his place on the council during a ceremony in Washington, D.C., last month.

“Col. English’s dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of the young people he serves makes him a valuable member of the Council,” said National PAL CEO Chris Hill.

English is the only Virginia official chosen for the council, which also includes the police chiefs from Santa Barbara, Calif., and Washington, D.C.

“We will lean on the Chiefs’ and Sheriffs’ Council for guidance as National PAL evolves and grows, providing new assets and support to our local chapters,” said Kenneth Ragland, president of National PAL’s Corporate Board of Directors.

Hanover County appoints new director of information technology

Free Press staff report

Hanover County appointed Steve Rodriguez as its new director of information technology, effective July 1. Rodriguez brings more than 30 years of experience in technology management and nearly 20 years in local government. His career has focused on using technology to improve operations, enhance cybersecurity and increase access to public services.

Most recently, Rodriguez served as assistant director of administrative services for Livermore, Calif., where he led efforts to modernize systems, implement new digital tools and

strengthen cybersecurity protections.

“Steve has a strong record of leading with vision and delivering results,” County Administrator John A. Budesky said in a statement. “He understands how technology can significantly enhance government operations and people’s everyday lives.” Rodriguez holds a bachelor’s of science in information technology and is active in professional organizations focused on local government and tech leadership.

“I look forward to helping the County build secure, easy-to-use systems that make a real difference for everyone who lives and works here,” Rodriguez said

The creation of the Chiefs’ and Sheriffs’ Council is part of a larger effort to rejuvenate and redirect National PAL, which has supported local chapters since the 1940s. Today, there are more than 300 PAL chapters across the United States.

“The mentoring, support, and example that police officers provide to the youths in these programs is as important as the sports and activities,” Hill said. “PAL chapters help young people find the right path to a successful future — to win in life.”

Courtesy National PAL Henrico County Col. Eric D. English is welcomed to the new Chiefs’ and Sheriffs’ Council of the National Police Athletic/Activities League by the group’s leaders. From left are CEO Chris Hill, Col. English and Henrico County PAL Executive Director Kenneth Ragland, who serves as president of the National PAL Board of Ddirectors.

Connie Clay

Steve Rodriguez

Don’t get stuck with a small slice of bandwidth

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Homes get a hand

Employees of Genesis Properties volunteer with Rebuilding Together Richmond on April 25 helping update a home on North Side for National Rebuilding Month. The work was part of a citywide effort to repair homes and revitalize neighborhoods. Volunteers worked on landscaping, painting and rebuilding fences and driveways.

John Reid defies calls to exit race

a right-wing blog in what she called “a smear campaign built around cyber exploitation,” and her admission of an extramarital affair with a woman campaign staffer.

Virginia’s own Susanna Gibson faced online harassment and a chorus of calls to drop out of her 2023 state House of Delegates race when her sexually explicit live-stream video with her ex-husband, which they released to a limited audience on a porn site, was recorded and shared widely without their consent.

“We have that culture of ‘boys will be boys’” said Virginia Wesleyan University professor Leslie Caughell, whose work focuses on the intersection of gender and politics. “Gibson (and others) didn’t get that treatment because ‘women aren’t supposed to do this.’”

In his recently posted videos since the news broke, Reid has repeatedly emphasized he is being targeted for his sexuality.

“He knows that the rules that apply to a heterosexual man don’t apply to him,” Caughell said.

“I am sickened and outraged at the weeks of veiled accusations and attacks on my family,” Reid said in a video posted to his campaign’s Facebook page Sunday. “I’m not going to continue to answer a never ending parade of questions and false accusations from people who we now know are solely motivated to stage a coup against a gay man, whom they didn’t want to be their nominee, but didn’t have the guts to run against.”

In a form of protest over the controversy, Phil Kazmierczak, a member of Youngkin’s LGBTQ+ Advisory Board, resigned from his position over the weekend.

Kazmierczak said in his resignation letter that he was “deeply shocked” Youngkin “would involve himself in a diabolical attack of this nature.”

Even as Reid’s campaign emerged, this year’s legislative session showed that many Virginia Republican elected officials do not appear to support same-sex marriage. Though such unions are federally protected by a near-decade-old U.S. Supreme Court ruling, Virginia’s state constitution still has a defunct ban on them.

A Democrat-led effort to undo this is underway and earlier this year, most Republicans in the House and the state Senate either voted against the measure or abstained from voting. It will need to pass both chambers again next year, where, should Reid become lieutenant governor, he could be a potential tie-breaking vote. All seats in the House are up for election in November.

ians’ marriages could be at risk if the Supreme Court reversed its stance on same-sex marriage — a possibility Justice Clarence Thomas has expressed interest in doing.

If Reid were to drop out, the Republican Party of Virginia’s state central committee members would need to select someone to run in his stead. June 17 is the deadline for candidates from both or third parties to qualify for the November ballots.

Like Reid, defying critics to stay in the race is familiar ground for Gibson, who narrowly lost her 2023 House campaign in the competitive 57th District.

Though she said she agreed to her ex-husband’s request to live-stream sex acts on a porn website, they did not consent to it being recorded and shared beyond their initial, limited audience. After an anonymous “Republican operative” sent the content to The Washington Post in 2023 just before early voting started in Virginia, an echo of pundits noted potential uphill battle for her campaign. The Republican Party of Virginia later sent out mailers with screenshots from the live stream.

She, like Reid, didn’t back down.

But behind the scenes, she endured the trauma of the situation along with subsequent online harassment. She said she’d received death threats and people loitered outside her home during the scandal. At one point a false call was placed to law enforcement, resulting in officers showing up at her house. The act, referred to as “swatting,” is often a tactic to target or harass public figures or activists.

Following the election, she laid low before later emerging with a PAC dedicated to combatting the nonconsensual sharing of intimate digital images. A model policy the group wrote has been carried and advanced through both Republican and Democrat-leaning states. Gibson consulted with Delegate Irene Shin, D-Fairfax, to adjust the statute of limitations on prosecuting “revenge porn” and other such crimes in Virginia.

At the federal level, a bill to punish people who publish revenge porn — whether actual images of targeted individuals or artificially-generated ones — has recently cleared Congress and is on its way to Trump’s desk.

While the Tumblr account purported to be Reid’s shared other people’s content, it’s unclear if they consented.

Reid’s lawyer has also sent a cease and desist letter to Moran.

Political analysts have posited that as technology evolves and younger people enter politics, the risk of digital sexual content being used against candidates may increase. The sharing of intimate images to publicly shame or tarnish someone most often happens to women, multiple studies show, but it can happen to anyone.

Gibson’s perspective on Reid’s predicament is nuanced, she said, because he used his platform as a radio host to call her a “legislative hooker” two years ago during the scandal she was at the center of. Still, she understands the myriad of feelings he may be coping with now as some in his own party have turned on him, and said it’s unacceptable for him to be targeted because he’s gay.

“The attacks on Reid for his sexual expression are completely inappropriate and incredibly harmful and damaging, not only to him, but to his family and to the democratic process,” she said.

Gibson also took aim at Matt Moran, a Youngkin adviser who is involved with the governor’s PAC.

“This is the second state election in a row that Matt Moran and Glenn Youngkin have attacked a candidate that they did not like on their sexuality,” she said. “It raises concerns for future elections and leadership of, honestly, both parties being willing to weaponize people’s sexuality and sexual expression in order to achieve some kind of partisan political outcome.”

From her own experience, to “sexting” that becomes public, to the allegations against Reid which he’s so far denied, she worries these situations may discourage people from running for office.

It’s something Caughell wonders about too — particularly concerning women and LGBTQ+ prospective politicians.

“It seems like standards for personal behavior don’t apply evenly to all candidates,” she said. “So you have to wonder if you’re a woman or you’re gay and you’re thinking about running, you might have concerns about what somebody could dig up about you to try to make it into an issue.”

As to Reid’s situation specifically, she said it shows where some of his party falls on supporting LGBTQ+ issues and people. Earlier this year, Reid’s ticket-mates Attorney General Jason Miyares and Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears joined Youngkin to boost support for lawmakers’ efforts to ban transgender student athletes from school sports.

Council keeps raises in place in proposed Richmond budget

Continued from A1

Democrats have argued that without removing the ban, Virginwas in place.

“We all agreed to give them more money. We also agreed for everybody across the board to have the [raise] so that it would be fair for our police chief, fire chief, department heads, all of that, because they work hard.”

Abubaker acknowledged her amendment would not pass but urged City Council to support an independent salary study for City employees. Her proposal received backing from Andrew Breton, 1st District, and Kenya Gibson, 3rd District.

“I really am shocked that we don’t have the votes for this,” Gibson said. “To me, it’s a no-brainer.”

Other changes missing from the proposal include funding for Richmond Public Schools to address requests from RPS leaders and employees, an expansion of the $20 minimum wage for City employees to include contracted cleaners and security staff, and support for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

The budget is scheduled for approval at City Council’s meeting on Monday, May 12.

Virginia’s extortion laws make it a crime to threaten a person’s reputation, safety, property or immigration status to gain money, property or financial benefit. It’s a Class 5 felony in the state to use threats, accusations of criminal conduct or the misuse of immigration documents as leverage for personal or monetary gain. Potential legal battles could be on the horizon if Reid does pursue a suit against the governor’s PAC for alleged extortion.

“I think (we’re) seeing some of the Republican Party’s discomfort with many of these transgender and gay issues. Having gay candidates as a voice for their party, at least to some segments, can pose a problem,” Caughell said. “You have to wonder, would Gov. Youngkin have been so quick to ask him to step aside if he had been a heterosexual man?”

This story originally appeared on Virginiamercury.com

lenges faced during January’s water crisis,” Hanover officials stated in a news release.

In a statement released about an hour after Henrico and Hanover shared their water supply test results, Richmond officials attributed the problem to an issue that occurred during the installation of a new fluoride pump at the plant on Wednesday, April 23. For about five hours, the system experienced a temporary increase in fluoride levels to 2.67 milligrams per liter, above the optimal level of 0.7 but below 4.0, the highest level allowed in drinking water by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Richmond officials said the drinking water produced during this period remained

safe, and testing in Henrico and Hanover found fluoride levels of 1.19 and 1.6 parts per million, respectively.

In addition to notifying counties of the incident four days after the incident occurred, Richmond officials also failed to alert the Virginia Department of Health about the incident within the required 24hour period.

“I’m disappointed with our failure to communicate,” Mayor Danny Avula stated in the city’s press release. “This incident damages the work we’re doing to rebuild trust — not only with the residents of Richmond, but our communities, and our regional partners, including Henrico, Chesterfield, and Hanover. We must do better.”

Chesterfield County officials later confirmed the safety of their own water

supply through independent testing following Richmond’s announcement. Officials in Henrico and Hanover counties, while criticizing Richmond’s lack of communication, also renewed calls for increased oversight of regional water systems and a greater role in their management.

“This episode, which comes on the heels of the city’s water service disruptions of January, shows once again that the region’s localities need to play a more prominent role in the delivery of drinking water to their customers,” Henrico officials wrote.

On Tuesday, Richmond officials reported that fluoride levels throughout the city’s water distribution system were below 2.0 milligrams per liter, ranging from 0.60 to 1.5 milligrams per liter. The Virginia Department of Health was notified.

Federal government restores Virginia student visa records

their visa records restored, according to Media Relations Manager John Hollis.

One student’s visa was revoked, “But his SEVIS record was never terminated,” according to Hollis. SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, a federal database used to track and monitor student and exchange visitor information; it contains students’ I-20 paperwork, which is used to establish student visa eligibility.

Hollis also said seven of the impacted GMU students are still in the United States, while eight have since left the country.

As of April 27, one University of Virginia student and two recent graduates also had their visa statuses restored to “active,” according to spokesperson Bethanie Glover.

“University officials will continue to closely

monitor emerging federal government policy,” Glover said in a statement to VPM News. “We will alert any affected student to any future changes in their status and offer all appropriate support.”

Glover said when a UVA student’s legal status is impacted, “We will work to determine whether continuing their program of study remotely is a viable option.”

Associate Vice President for Public Relations

Michael Porter confirmed to VPM News that two VCU students and one recent graduate have also had their record terminations reversed.

These four institutions are the only known public four-year universities in Virginia impacted by the federal-level revocations.

Miriam Feldblum, CEO of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, previously told VPM News that many of the student record terminations upended “regular

practice” because colleges, not federal officials, are usually the ones to change students’ I-20 documentation — which sets up their eligibility for a student visa.

However, the Trump administration says the termination reversals are only temporary. According to court documents, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is developing a new policy “that will provide a framework for SEVIS record terminations.”

Feldblum told VPM News on April 29 that even though the federal government reactivated students’ records, that didn’t erase the notation or information officials put in when they terminated the records — and she fears that could negatively impact students going forward.

“For these students, that may cause significant difficulties for when they want to adjust status in the future, perhaps when they’re wanting to

come back into the country or get a new visa,” Feldblum said. “It can present a type of red flag: ‘There’s something on this record.’” Her organization is involved with ongoing litigation seeking to ensure the record terminations are fully erased from the system — and gain insight into what the basis for those terminations was in the first place.

But right now, Feldblum said there are more questions than answers about what all of this means for international students who have been studying in the U.S.: “There’s still such a lack of clarity, there’s confusion.”

Director of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia A. Scott Fleming told VPM News that he’s unsure of the Trump administration’s ultimate policy outcome here.

“It just seems like there’s a lot of chaos that leads to almost–business as usual,” Fleming said.

Photos by Julianne Tripp Hillian/Richmond Free Press

City revenue director resigns after more problems with tax rebate checks

By Graham Moomaw The Richmonder

Richmond’s director of revenue resigned last week after City officials learned of more errors that have hampered the City’s efforts to give Richmond property owners back some tax money they’ve already paid.

A month ago, the City announced a mailing error had resulted in thousands of erroneous checks to be sent out payable to an entity called “Hartshorn Community Council.” On Monday — as questions swirled about the status of checks residents still weren’t seeing in their mailboxes — the City announced it had found several more problems that were delaying the process. Some valid checks were accidentally canceled, leading

them to bounce when residents tried to get the money. Others were sent to the current owners of property that has changed hands since 2024, instead of to the previous owner who actually paid the taxes subject to the rebate. Another 156 checks were issued for land parcels that didn’t exist in 2024.

The one-time rebate checks, funded by surplus money from the fiscal 2024 budget year that ended last June, will vary based on property values. For the average homeowner with a property worth $366,163, it would work out to roughly $150.

Officials didn’t provide a number for how many checks might already have bounced. They also did not say why the City waited a week to announce the resignation of former Revenue Director Jamie Atkinson,

who resigned April 21.

The City has been in the middle of a contentious budget season, with Mayor Danny Avula’s administration pushing for across-the-board, 3.25% raises for city employees. Several City Council members have questioned giving even higher pay to top City Hall officials, a conversation that has touched on the broader question of whether ever-growing salaries will improve City Hall’s performance or add to the perception that there’s little accountability for the City’s at-times lackluster service.

The news about Atkinson’s departure and the broader problems with the tax rebate checks came out hours after the City Council decided to back Avula’s proposal for acrossthe-board raises.

During a council meeting

Monday afternoon, Kenya Gibson, 3rd District,asked for an update on the checks, saying she was getting reports about checks not arriving or possibly bouncing.

Interim Chief Administrative Officer Sabrina Joy-Hogg said City finance officials “ordered a stop” to the rebates last month after the city sent out an estimated 8,300 checks that were addressed to the wrong recipient. Officials are still looking into the situation, Joy-Hogg said, to ensure the checks go out correctly.

“They’re doing their due diligence now on all of that,” Joy-Hogg said.

The City issued stop orders on the erroneous checks in order to prevent them from being cashed. Joy-Hogg said Monday that some valid checks might also have been affected

Henrico awards grants to support environmental projects

Free Press staff reports

Henrico County has awarded grants to eight local organizations for environmental initiatives as part of the first round of its new Community Impact Grants program.

The program, managed by the Henrico Environmental Action Resource Team (HEART), supports community-led sustainability efforts. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,400 will fund projects including pollinator gardens, cycling events, beekeeping education and community cleanups.

“The county has implemented many projects to support environmental sustainability over the years. That said, we recognize the strength and passion within our community for these issues and we want to support organizations investing so much in this work,” said Sustainability Division Director Samantha Hudson. “We know that to truly move the needle, we must invest in collective

impact and lift up others in the community who are doing this important work.”

The Community Impact Grants program was included in Henrico’s 2024-25 fiscal year budget as part of the county’s continued investment in HEART.

The grant recipients include the Henrico County Cooperative Extension 4-H Program, which will support youth leadership development and community engagement projects. The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation will provide free Summer Challenge registrations to Henrico youth to promote outdoor activity along the trail.

The Capital Region Land Conservancy will increase accessibility at the Varina LandLab Conservation Area by adding an ADA-compliant portable restroom.

Dorey Park Farmers Market will partner with VPM to host a conference supporting community gardens in Henrico and central Virginia. Richmond Beekeepers will replace

ornamental plants with native Virginia varieties near the Belmont golf course driving range. Beyond Boundaries will organize an accessible community day at Deep Run Park featuring outdoor activities such as fishing, paddling, biking and hiking.

Henrico Master Gardeners will build a pollinator garden in the Fox Hall neighborhood using native perennials, trees and shrubs, creating a pilot project for possible expansion into other neighborhoods. RVA Rapid Transit will expand volunteer support and increase community involvement in the Adopt-A-Stop program, which helps keep GRTC bus stops in Henrico clean.

HEART will provide regular updates to the public on the progress of the projects and will oversee the use of the grant funds.

The application period for the second round of Community Impact Grants is expected to open after July. More information is available at henrico.gov

by the stop order, effectively voiding money residents were previously told they could deposit or cash without any problems.

“Some correct ones may have gotten caught in that,” JoyHogg said. “So if someone did get a stop payment but it was a valid check, they should contact Finance and we will reimburse them for any bank fees.”

Joy-Hogg didn’t mention Atkinson’s resignation during her answer to the council. In a news release, the City said Finance Director Sheila White — who was in the spotlight last year over the City’s meals tax controversy — “will now directly oversee the process to issue the remaining rebate checks.”

Joy-Hogg said White is “almost done” with her audit of the process, and will proceed with the mailing of the correct checks once it’s complete.

Trump, Youngkin policies reshape Virginia’s college campuses

By Andrew Kerley Capital News Service

Joe Feagin had to swear an oath he was not a communist to land his first university teaching job in 1966.

Feagin, 86, received his bachelor’s degree in Texas during McCarthyism and the viciously oppressive Jim Crow era.

The ’60s were turbulent, Feagin said. Vietnam War and Civil Rights protests were frequent. Demographics were shifting as more Latinos and Asians arrived under liberalized immigration laws.

“Everything was looking up at that point,” Feagin said. “Jim Crow laws were being crushed, Black folks were finally making it into the mainstream white universities where they had been rare or nonexistent.”

But Feagin, who spent nearly 60 years in higher education, believes progress is slipping.

President Donald Trump is publicly threatening to withhold federal funding for schools over anti-war protests and diversity initiatives that took root decades ago. A less-visible battle is being fought in over half of all states, including Virginia, to remove protections for professors, independent curriculum control and universityshared governance.

Educators warn changes are part of a conservative blueprint, and academic freedom is at stake. Conservative leaders say they will foster intellectual diversity, create more career pathways and bolster the marketplace.

Faculty Control Wanes In Virginia, Nationwide

Faculty have traditionally held power over university curriculums, but that eroded significantly over the years, according to leading Virginia political analyst Bob Holsworth.

Holsworth, also a former Virginia Commonwealth University professor and board of visitors member, said Gov. Glenn Youngkin is exercising a much heavier hand through his board appointees.

Boards create university budgets, hire and fire presidents, appoint faculty and rubber stamp curriculums created by faculty. But, their decisions have become increasingly intrusive and politicized, according to Holsworth.

While the deterioration of independent governance and hiring of tenured faculty has been ongoing for decades, it has been exacerbated by recent politics and the rise of Trump.

Students and faculty at VCU and George Mason University spent years drafting new learning requirements to teach topics such as systemic racism, gender studies and workplace inequity. Some of the content paralleled the wake from 2020 and its summer of protests

against police brutality.

The new initiatives — called “racial literacy” at VCU and “Just Societies” at GMU — were set to be implemented in 2024. But Youngkin’s education secretary requested to view the syllabi, and soon after both universities canceled the requirements.

Christian Martinez, Youngkin’s former press secretary, called the course requirements a “thinly veiled attempt to incorporate the progressive left’s groupthink on Virginia’s students.”

“That’s a step beyond what we’ve ever seen,” Holsworth said.

Launching The Blueprint

The blueprint for board interference was first tested in Florida, according to Amy Reid. She taught at the New College of Florida, one of the Sunshine State’s few public liberal arts schools, until Gov. Ron DeSantis made moves in 2023 to remove the gender studies program she directed.

DeSantis appointed six new members to the college’s board of trustees in 2023, the majority of whom lived outside Florida and were conservative activists, according to Reid.

DeSantis’ appointees voted to end the school’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office, according to Reid. They also removed university officials and faculty who didn’t fit their vision of the school, including the president, provost, some LGBTQ+ employees and a Chinese adjunct professor seeking asylum from his home country.

Reid now works at PEN America, a free

In 2020, recognizing that the increased deployment of motor vehicles powered by electricity (“electric vehicles” or “EVs”) could potentially affect the affordability and reliability of electricity service delivered to consumers by regulated utilities, the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) established a docket, Case No. PUR-2020-00051, in which interested persons and entities were invited to file comments and participate in a public session regarding the increased deployment of electric vehicles.

The General Assembly subsequently enacted Chapter 268 of the 2021 Virginia Acts of Assembly, Special Session I, which directed the Commission to “submit a report to the General Assembly, no later than May 1, 2022, recommending policy proposals that could govern public electric utility programs to accelerate widespread transportation electrification in the Commonwealth.” On April 29, 2022, the Commission submitted its report (“Report”) to the General Assembly. Among other things, and as stated in the Report, the Commission directed Virginia Electric and Power Company (“Dominion” or “Company”) and Appalachian Power Company (“APCo”) to file transportation electrification plans in Case No. PUR2020-00051 on or before May 1, 2023. APCo and Dominion filed their respective transportation electrification plans on May 1, 2023. In an Order dated August 7, 2024, the Commission determined that APCo and Dominion should file updated transportation electrification plans in new and separate dockets on or before February 3, 2025, due to the passage of time since the original plans were filed. The utilities were directed to incorporate the impacts of any new and updated regulations promulgated since the original plans were filed and to comply with any prior requirements imposed by the Commission for the original plans.

On February 3, 2025, pursuant to the directives in the August 7, 2024 Order in Case No. PUR-2020-00051, Dominion filed its updated transportation electrification plan (“Plan”) in the present docket. The Plan includes, among other things, the current status of transportation electrification in Dominion’s service territory, fiveyear EV peak demand and energy forecasts, and the Company’s near-term plan to support transportation electrification. The Plan also examines transportation electrification as part of system planning.

The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding that, among other things, scheduled public hearings on Dominion’s Plan and assigned a Hearing Examiner to conduct all further proceedings in this matter on behalf of the Commission. A hearing for the receipt of testimony from public witnesses on the Company’s Plan shall be convened telephonically by the Hearing Examiner at 10 a.m. on October 28, 2025. On or before October 21, 2025, any person desiring to offer testimony as a public witness shall provide to the Commission: (a) your name, and (b) the telephone number that you wish the Commission to call during the hearing to receive your testimony. This information may be provided to the Commission: (i) by filling out a form on the Commission’s website at scc.virginia.gov/case-information/webcasting/; or (ii) by calling (804) 371-9141 to register. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia. gov/case-information/webcasting/

Beginning at 10 a.m. on October 28, 2025, the Hearing Examiner will telephone sequentially each person who has signed up to testify as provided above.

On October 28, 2025, at 10 a.m., or at the conclusion of the public witness portion of the hearing, whichever is later, in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, the Hearing Examiner will convene a hearing to receive testimony and evidence related to the Plan from the Company, any respondents, and the Commission Staff (“Staff”).

To promote administrative efficiency and timely service of filings upon participants, the Commission has directed the electronic filing of testimony and

speech organization that pushes back against what it calls educational gag orders.

Officials increasingly use indirect tactics to achieve censorial goals, Reid said. Coordinated attacks have shifted from K-12 to higher education in recent years.

Spike In Bills Targeting Higher-Ed

Over 90 bills to reform higher education at public universities, and some private ones, have been introduced across 26 states in the past three years, according to PEN America data. At least 16 have become law as of March 6.

The highest number of bills were introduced after Trump’s re-election.

Almost half of the legislation focused on eliminating or preventing DEI initiatives that promoted concepts related to race, color, religion, sex, ethnicity or national origin — from curriculum to faculty training. But other legislation challenges traditional higher-ed structure by putting university governance, the decision-making power given to student and faculty bodies, on the chopping block.

Several bills seek to eliminate or weaken tenure status for faculty, which was created to safeguard academic freedom from politics. Others strip universities of independent accreditation standards, which certify the quality of education at colleges.

Some bills break tradition by giving states authority to establish programs and curriculum where American values and ideas, or Western civilization, are predominantly taught.

Even if legislation fails, governors can cen-

sor higher education through their appointed board members, Reid said.

Project 2025, Heritage Foundation Take Aim At Virginia Conservative groups such as the Claremont Institute, Manhattan Institute and the Heritage Foundation are coordinating efforts between states, Reid said. Members push initiatives and propose candidates for university boards. The Heritage Foundation created the almost 1,000 page Project 2025 blueprint to reshape the American government.

Trump denied his involvement with Project 2025 while campaigning, but immediately began enacting parts of the plan once in office, including efforts to dismantle the Department of Education.

The Heritage Foundation’s influence has increasingly grown in Virginia. Youngkin, who has deep ties to the foundation, has appointed Project 2025 authors to the boards of visitors at GMU and the University of Virginia.

Virginia universities have complied with Trump and Youngkin’s efforts to cancel racial learning requirements, dissolve DEI programs and instate new campus speech policies that limit protesting. Medical centers at UVA and VCU also stopped providing gender affirming care for people under age 19, per an executive order from Trump.

Trump has threatened to cut federal funding for research and student financial aid for schools that do not comply. Virginia ranks 13th in research and development performance, according to the Virginia Mercury. UVA received $549 million in research awards in 2024, according to their report. VCU received $200.1 million, according to spokesman Brian McNeill.

America Moving “Rapidly Backwards” Feagin, who recently retired from Texas A&M University, believes America has been “zigzagging” toward progress since the ’40s, up until President Barack Obama was elected. Conservative demographics lashed back at Obama’s victory by forming populist factions like the Tea Party, utilizing political redistricting and eventually electing Trump. Feagin said with attacks on higher education and the destruction of federal programs with “no apparent purpose,” America is back to where it was in the early ’60s and moving “rapidly backwards.”

Gutting research is economic suicide in the face of China’s faster development, Feagin said. Cutting diversity will only make universities unpleasant. Efforts to stop the diversification of America will only be temporary victories.

“You can slow it down. You can make it miserable,” Feagin said. “That’s what Trump is doing.”

pleadings, unless they contain confidential information, and required electronic service on parties to this proceeding.

An electronic copy of the Company’s Plan may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company: Jontille D. Ray, Esquire, McGuire Woods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or jray@ mcguirewoods.com Interested persons may also download unofficial copies of the Plan and the public version of other documents filed in this case from the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/case-information/.

On or before October 21, 2025, any interested person may submit comments on the Plan by following the instructions found on the Commission’s website: scc. virginia.gov/case-information/submit-public-comments Those unable, as a practical matter, to submit comments electronically may file such comments by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission, c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. All such comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00022.

On or before July 16, 2025, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding may do so by filing a notice of participation with the Clerk of the Commission at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling Those unable, as a practical matter, to file a notice of participation electronically may file such notice by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel, if available. The respondent simultaneously shall serve a copy of the notice of participation on counsel to the Company, any other respondents and Staff electronically as described above. Pursuant to 5 VAC 520-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, 5 VAC 5-20-10 et seq. (“Rules of Practice”), any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the specific action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel, of the Rules of Practice. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00022. For additional information about participation as a respondent, any person or entity should obtain a copy of the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing.

On or before September 9, 2025, each respondent may file with the Clerk of the Commission, at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling, any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case. Any respondent unable, as a practical matter, to file testimony and exhibits electronically may file such by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Each witness’s testimony shall include a summary not to exceed one page. All testimony and exhibits shall be served electronically on the Staff, the Company, and all other respondents simultaneous with their filing. In all filings, respondents shall comply with the Rules of Practice, as modified herein, including, but not limited to: 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service, and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00022.

Any documents filed in paper form with the Office of the Clerk of the Commission in this docket may use both sides of the paper. In all other respects, except as modified by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, all filings shall comply fully with the requirements of 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Rules of Practice.

The Company’s Plan, the Commission’s Rules of Practice, the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, and the public versions of other documents filed in the case may be viewed at: scc.virginia.gov/case-information/.

Photo courtesy of Kieran Stevens, The Commonwealth Times

The Virginia Commonwealth University Board of Visitors announce the dissolution of the school’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office on March 21.

Rev. Barber arrested in Capitol Rotunda after praying against Republican-led budget

By Jack Jenkins Religion News Service

Prominent pastor and anti-poverty

activist the Rev. William Barber and two others were arrested while praying in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Monday, April 28, an action he said would be part of a recurring series of demonstrations aimed at challenging the Republican-led budget bill.

The arrests occurred roughly 15 minutes after Barber, the Rev. Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, and Steve Swayne, director of St. Francis Springs Prayer Center, started praying in the Rotunda as dozens of police stood nearby, some prepared with plastic handcuffs. The three took turns praying, lamenting potential budget cuts to social safetynet programs such as Medicaid, often chanting together: “Against the conspiracy of cruelty, we plead the power of your mercy.”

“When we cannot depend on the courts and the legislative power of human beings, we can still depend on … the power of your love and your mercy and your truth,” Barber said in the Rotunda as police began to surround him.

While arresting protesters at the Capitol is not unusual, the response to Barber’s prayer was unusually dramatic. After issuing verbal warnings, dozens of officers expelled everyone in the Rotunda — including credentialed press — and shut the doors, obscuring any view. Press and others were then instructed to leave the floor entirely.

Speaking with RNS shortly after he was released from police custody on Monday, Barber, who has a chronic illness that affects his ability to walk, said he was in pain from the prolonged ordeal but that his interactions with police were “cordial.”

Barber, who is founder of the Center for Public Theology and Public Policy at Yale Divinity School, where he also teaches, said he was handcuffed by police and briefly detained. While he found the incident unsettling, he hoped it would draw attention to those who

will be impacted by potential budget cuts, he said.

“To think that we went in to pray — pray against the budget, but to pray nonetheless — and the order now is that, evidently, if you pray, you are seen as violating the rules of the Rotunda,” he said. “What we hope is that folks will see this and it will begin to remove some of the fear, and people will understand that this is the time — now — that we must engage in nonviolent direct action to register our discontent.”

Reached for comment, a Capitol police spokesperson said Barber and two others were charged with “crowding, obstructing and incommoding,” explaining demonstrations in congressional buildings are “not allowed in any form, to include but not limited to sitting, kneeling, group praying, singing, chanting, etc.”

The spokesperson also said the Rotunda is “not a dedicated press area unless it’s for a pre-approved event.”

Some quickly argued that Barber’s arrest appeared incongruous with President Donald Trump’s efforts to eliminate “anti-Christian bias” in federal agencies.

LEGAL NOTICE

“Arresting Rev. Barber and others at the Capitol after announcing a task force to eradicate anti-Christian bias in government is an absolute travesty,”

Anthea Butler, a professor of religion at the University of Pennsylvania, said in a text message. “Seems like this administration only wants Christians who are supporters of Trump to have access to pray in the Capitol and express their faith.”

The arrests followed a rally nearby outside the U.S. Supreme Court building, where Barber rallied with other clergy and faith leaders, as well as federal workers who lost their jobs, to condemn the GOP-led budget.

Speakers at the rally, which was organized by Repairers of the Breach, focused specifically on how the budget would impact women and children. Among those who addressed the crowd at the rally or press beforehand were: the Rev. Teresa Hord Owens, general minister and president of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); Sheila Katz, CEO of the National Council of Jewish Women; Imam Talib M. Shareef, president and imam of historic Masjid Muhammad, also known as “the

On March 24, 2025, Virginia Electric and Power Company (“Dominion” or “Company”) filed a petition with the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) for approval of a plan for electric distribution grid transformation projects (“Petition”) pursuant to § 56-585.1

A 6 of the Code of Virginia (“Code”). Specifically, Dominion seeks approval of Phase IIIB of its plan to transform its electric distribution grid (“GT Plan”), which consists of proposed projects in 2024, 2025, and 2026, as well as work performed in prior years for certain Phase IIIB projects.

Dominion states that Phase IIIB of the GT Plan includes the continuation of two projects: (i) mainfeeder hardening and (ii) the outage management system (“OMS”). The Company seeks approval for mainfeeder hardening work it undertook on three mainfeeders in 2024 and proposes to continue the mainfeeder hardening project on 20 additional feeders in 2025 and 2026. The Company proposes an additional $234.7 million of capital investment in mainfeeder hardening as part of Phase IIIB of the GT Plan.

The Company also proposes to continue deployment of its OMS, which was previously approved in Case No. PUR-2023-00051, with the addition of enhanced capabilities and expanded functionality. According to Dominion, since first receiving approval of the OMS, the Company has identified additional requirements necessary to achieve the expected customer benefits, meet minimum functionality standards for operational excellence, and further secure the OMS against cyber security threats. Enhancements to the previously approved OMS would include expansion into a mobile platform, a module for customer outage texting, additional damage collection functionality, enhanced visibility and integration, increased consulting and technical support, expanded reporting capabilities, and the creation of disaster recovery, training and development environments. The Company asserts these enhancements would enable its OMS to improve user efficiency and situational awareness, emphasize public and employee safety, and provide timely customer restoration information. The Company proposes an additional $19.1 million in capital investment and $1.5 million in operations and maintenance (“O&M”) expenses for OMS as part of Phase IIIB of the GT Plan.

Dominion also requests approval of one new project in conjunction with Phase IIIB: a remote sensing, image management and analytical program (“iMAP”) to acquire information about the Company’s electric distribution assets using digital technology and without making physical contact. The Company states that iMAP consists of two components: (i) a foundational platform which is a Company-managed cloud-based system hosted by an industry standard cloud solution to centrally store, manage, and analyze remotely sensed data; and (ii) analytical solutions, which would be a combination of third- party and Company proprietary analytics to enable operational use cases for electric distribution. The Company is requesting approval to stand up the foundational platform and deploy three individual technology pilots. According to Dominion, iMAP would help to reduce trips to the field to scope projects, provide better information for work planning, identify failing equipment before it caused an outage, and allow for more effective decision making around repairs and replacements. The Company proposes $24.4 million of capital investment and $3.0 million of O&M expenses for iMAP as part of Phase IIIB of the GT Plan.

In total, the proposed cost associated with Phase IIIB of the GT Plan is approximately $278.3 million in capital investment and $4.5 million in O&M expenses.

The Company also represents that, in preparing the GT Plan, it evaluated each proposed project to determine whether there were any environmental justice concerns. Interested persons are encouraged to review the Petition and supporting documents in full for additional details.

The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding that, among other things, scheduled public hearings on Dominion’s Petition and assigned a Hearing Examiner to conduct all further proceedings in this matter on behalf of the Commission.

A hearing for the receipt of testimony from public witnesses on the Company’s Petition shall be convened telephonically by the Hearing Examiner at 10 a.m. on July 14, 2025. On or before July 7, 2025, any person desiring to offer testimony as a public witness shall provide to the Commission: (a) your name, and (b) the telephone number that you wish the Commission to call during the hearing to receive your testimony. This information may be provided to the Commission: (i) by filling out a form on the Commission’s website at scc. virginia.gov/case-information/webcasting/; or (ii) by calling (804) 371-9141 to register. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/case-information/webcasting/

Nation’s Mosque”; Marc H. Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League; and Sarah Anderson with the Institute for Policy Studies.

“Forty-three percent of women and almost half of all children are poor and low income,” Barber told the crowd, citing an assessment of Economic Policy Institute data. “Somebody ought to say something … Somebody gotta challenge this budget.”

Speakers expressed particular concerns about potential cuts to Medicaid, for which some conservatives have advocated. But on Monday, speakers such as Anderson noted a dozen House Republicans recently sent a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson opposing cuts to Medicaid.

“Soften the hearts of representatives, like the 12 who wrote to the speaker today,” Wilson-Hartgrove, an author and activist, said while praying in the Rotunda. “Twelve Republicans asking their speaker to not cut Medicaid. We ask you to move all those hearts, Lord.”

The protest was the beginning of a “Moral Monday” campaign that Barber said he hopes will feature demonstrations every week moving forward. It’s an approach to activism the pastor has used to great effect in the past. Today’s protest was launched on the 12-year anniversary of the original Moral Monday protest movement he organized in North Carolina in 2013, which was credited with helping unseat the governor in that state.

A Repairers of the Breach spokesperson acknowledged in a statement that the three people were arrested in the Rotunda after the rally, while “practicing their First Amendment rights.”

“On this, the first Moral Monday in D.C., faith leaders and impacted people came to the people’s house to demand a moral budget — one that lifts from the bottom, prioritizing poor and low-wage people, women, children and workers,” the statement said.

The police response to the group’s actions on Monday contrasted sharply with another worship service in the same space in March 2023, when far-

right musician and activist Sean Feucht led a worship service that included participation from lawmakers such as Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo. Unlike Barber’s prayer service, Feucht’s took place in the evening after most people had left the Capitol, and whether or not it was sanctioned is unclear: Feucht has claimed to have “snuck in” to the Rotunda to hold worship on multiple occasions, but Capitol Police declined to specify whether the incident was permitted.

However, Feucht’s event was significantly longer than Barber’s brief prayer session, and while police spoke with participants, no one was arrested.

“We prayed in public today because the cries of the people who will be hurt by this immoral budget must be heard,” Wilson-Hartgrove told RNS in a text message, after he and Swayne were released from police custody. “I’m not sure why some citizens are allowed to pray in the Rotunda and others can’t, but I pray as part of my pastoral responsibilities.”

Asked about the discrepancy, a Capitol Police spokesperson said they were unfamiliar with the Feucht event but said it was likely approved ahead of time, “especially if a member of Congress was involved and if it was after hours when the building was generally closed to the general public.” Barber, meanwhile, was met by police as he marched toward the Capitol with a group of clergy and others from the Supreme Court. He was eventually allowed into the Rotunda, but only after dozens of officers were positioned outside the entrance to the historic room before he arrived.

Despite the intensity of the response, Barber said he is unmoved and plans to continue demonstrating — and praying — in the weeks to come.

“Just as Jesus turned over the tables of the money changers, so we have to be willing to put our bodies on the line,” he said. “I pray that impacted people will (come) — again, not to go to get arrested, but to arrest the attention of the nation.”

Beginning at 10 a.m. on July 14, 2025, the Hearing Examiner will telephone sequentially each person who has signed up to testify as provided above.

On July 14, 2025, at 10 a.m., or at the conclusion of the public witness portion of the hearing, whichever is later, in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, the Hearing Examiner will convene a hearing to receive testimony and evidence related to the Petition from the Company, any respondents, and the Commission Staff (“Staff”).

To promote administrative efficiency and timely service of filings upon participants, the Commission has directed the electronic filing of testimony and pleadings, unless they contain confidential information, and required electronic service on parties to this proceeding.

An electronic copy of the public version of the Company’s Petition may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company: Jontille D. Ray, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or jray@mcguirewoods.com. Interested persons may also download unofficial copies of the public version of the Petition and the public versions of other documents filed in this case from the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/case-information/

On or before July 7, 2025, any interested person may submit comments on the Petition by following the instructions found on the Commission’s website: scc.virginia. gov/case-information/submit-public-comments Those unable, as a practical matter, to submit comments electronically may file such comments by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission, c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. All such comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00051.

On or before May 23, 2025, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding may do so by filing a notice of participation with the Clerk of the Commission at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling Those unable, as a practical matter, to file a notice of participation electronically may file such notice by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel, if available. The respondent simultaneously shall serve a copy of the notice of participation on counsel to the Company, any other respondents and Staff electronically as described above. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, 5 VAC 5-20-10 et seq. (“Rules of Practice”), any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the specific action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel, of the Rules of Practice. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00051. For additional information about participation as a respondent, any person or entity should obtain a copy of the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing.

On or before June 10, 2025, each respondent may file with the Clerk of the Commission, at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling, any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case. Any respondent unable, as a practical matter, to file testimony and exhibits electronically may file such by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Each witness’s testimony shall include a summary not to exceed one page. All testimony and exhibits shall be served electronically on the Staff, the Company, and all other respondents simultaneous with their filing. In all filings, respondents shall comply with the Rules of Practice, as modified herein, including, but not limited to: 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service, and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00051.

Any documents filed in paper form with the Office of the Clerk of the Commission in this docket may use both sides of the paper. In all other respects, except as modified by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, all filings shall comply fully with the requirements of 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Rules of Practice.

The public version of the Company’s Petition, the Commission’s Rules of Practice, the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, and the public versions of other documents filed in the case may be viewed at: scc.virginia.gov/case-information/

RNS photo/Jack Jenkins

A police officer, right, stands near as the Rev. Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, from left, the Rev. William Barber II and others pray in the Capitol Rotunda, Monday, April 28, in Washington.

Diversity on the ticket, division in the ranks

This year, Virginia Republicans are running an immigrant from Jamaica, an openly gay former talk show host and a Cuban American for statewide offices. It’s hard to believe, isn’t it? Didn’t they get the memo from the Oval Office that diversity, equity and inclusion are out of style? Has anyone told the president? He might be surprised that our candidates for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general are as diverse as the buffet line at the U.N. cafeteria.

One thing that’s not surprising is some Republicans have found fault with a couple of the candidates. gubernatorial candidate Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears endured disparaging remarks from Republican party leaders, who said she was “unelectable” and had “already given up.” One even challenged her to a debate. Since she secured the nomination in early April, much of that sentiment has washed away. That’s the way it usually goes in politics, but as we pointed out, this is a different kind of ticket for the GOP.

For former speechwriter and talk show host John Reid, it was after he secured the party’s nomination for lieutenant governor that the serious pushback began. Reid, the first openly gay Republican nominee for statewide office in Virginia, was asked to withdraw from the race by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, according to reports. The request came after explicit images, allegedly linked to a username similar to his own, were noticed on Instagram and Tumblr accounts. Reid has denied any connection to the images and refuses to drop out of the race.

“I’m the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, and I’m more transparent and I’m more conservative, and I’m tougher than any of my detractors, and I’m not going anywhere except to get back on the campaign trail, win this election and take these people to court,” he said in a video statement.

Reports suggest Reid is considering legal action against the governor and alleges his actions are part of a “coordinated character assassination attempt.”

Sears recently issued a statement that was supportive of Reid’s candidacy and stated recent focus on the nominee distracted from her campaign’s mission to “to unite and inspire Virginians of all backgrounds.”

It’s ironic that while the leader of their party has made a crusade against diversity a cornerstone of his brand, Virginia Republicans are presenting their most diverse statewide ticket yet. So what message does this send?

One could interpret it as a rebuke of the president’s policies, suggesting that people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals can be the best candidates for the job. That’s not something we expected to hear from that side of the aisle — but they don’t need to say it; the truth is in the nominations.

The governor, along with some other Republican groups, also is making the case that some candidates face unique challenges, brought on by their background or lifestyle — by providing a fresh example of one. This is one reason DEI initiatives were deemed necessary: to make sure everyone has a fair chance to succeed, no matter their background or situation.

As the party’s national leader rails against diversity and inclusion, Virginia’s GOP is proving change is already happening, whether people want to admit it or not.

Iris at Maymont

As a record number of pilgrims representing all walks of life filled the streets of Rome to mourn the death of “The People’s Pope,” history will indicate the fiercest critics of the Francis Pontificate were American Catholics. This should come as no surprise. Since the 1970s, the American Catholic Church has been little more than a lobbying arm of the Republican Party, having dived deep into secular politics while drifting away from the authentic gospel. Francis was the antithesis of American Catholicism.

Having spent the better part of the last decade infiltrating and investigating religious extremism, it didn’t take me long to notice the late shepherd endured flagrant resistance from “sheep” fueled by MAGAinspired clerics such as Raymond Burke, Joseph Strickland, and the defrocked Frank Pavone. Likewise, lay “influencers” like Candace Owens, Steve Bannon, and Mel Gibson declared Francis as the anti-pope, an imposter, and Satan’s minion. Extremist right-wing Catholic “apostolates” booked papal opponents as keynote speakers for confer-

ences aimed at “consecrating” families. Such gatherings were hardly “consecrations.” In fact, they were schisms. Francis was frequently accused by MAGA Catholics of being an authoritarian, manipulative, reckless, and politically partisan pontiff. Many went so far as to allege the Holy Father was … a dictator. Some even called for his overthrow.

Ironic, right?

Though the MAGA movement is intimately acquainted with a dictator, Jorge Mario Bergoglio certainly doesn’t fit

that description. Hundreds of heartfelt obituaries and testimonies have been published in recent days highlighting the numerous acts that should lead even the most milquetoast Catholic to proclaim, “Santo subito: Make him a saint, now,” which they rather boldly shouted after the death of the late Pope John Paul II.

Just like his life, the death of Francis was peaceful.

Though the MAGA movement holds facts in low regard, let the record show that when it comes to death, the expiration of a dictator has rarely been described as peaceful. Many of them keel over from massive

heart attacks and suffer prolonged comas – assuming they even make it that far. Adolf Hitler was rumored to have shot himself in the temple.

In 1945, as Benito Mussolini was fleeing Italy, he was stopped and shot. Nicolae Ceausescu sobbed before a Romanian firing squad.

In the early morning hours of March 2, 1953, Joseph Stalin suffered a severe stroke. It took 17 hours for guards to muster up the courage to check on the dictator, who had given strict orders never to be disturbed. Upon entering his bedchamber, they found him on the floor, soaked in urine, still alive. He would expire four days later, awakening from his coma only during the final moments of his life. According to his daughter Svetlana, “On March 5, 1953, at the last moment he suddenly opened his eyes. It was a terrible look – either mad, or angry and full of fear of death. Suddenly he raised his left hand and pointed his finger at all of us. A moment later, his soul was separated from his body.”

As for the so-called “Dictator Pope?” On Easter Sunday, Francis humbly asked to be driven around St. Peter’s Square one last time to spend a few moments of the holiest day of the year among the people. Then, from the iconic balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica,

Durbin’s departure stirs a scramble

As President Trump’s polling takes a tumble 100 days into his second term — and Illinois’ Dick Durbin, the Senate’s secondranking Democrat, announces his retirement, a very old hit tune sung by Ethel Waters comes to mind: “There’ll Be Some Changes Made.”

I’m gonna change my way of livin’, and that ain’t no bluff

Why, I’m thinkin’ about changin’ the way I gotta strut my stuff Because nobody wants you when you’re old and gray There’s gonna be some chang es made today.

Oh, really?

Democrats have been grap pling with their own version of that resolution, especially ever since the di sastrous defeat of candidate, Kamala Harris, in November.

If you’re honest about yourself and your reputation, you want to leave when you can still walk out the front door and not be carried out the back door,” said Durbin, the top Democrat on the Senate’s powerful Judiciary Committee after three decades in the upper body.

The “Biden Effect” is the label Rutgers University political scientist Ross Baker applied to the wave of goodbyes now rolling through the Senate, as some longtime stalwarts show signs of getting too long in the tooth. Having covered Durbin numerous times during his tenure, I’ll miss him. He had a masterful command of the issues, whether I agreed with him or not, and I often learned a lot from him — which is more than I can say for a lot of other lawmakers in the Machiavellian mud wrestling that too often gets in the way of the

government’s ability to help real people with real problems.

However, I also find a lot of agreement with those who say too many senior lawmakers are simply too reluctant or stubborn to step aside and give some of the younger whippersnappers a chance.

If there were a complaint about Durbin that resonated with me it was his reluctance to put pressure on Supreme Court justices for some questionable ethical practices. If nothing else, Durbin was an institutionalist, which is not always bad but also has its limits when changes need to be made.

His exit comes at a time when the tide seems to be turning

against Trump.

Even Fox News, known for finding even the tiniest silver lining in any Trump tempest, offered little relief to the president’s MAGA supporters in light of recent polls. As the 100th day of his second term approached, a Fox News survey found voters approved of the job Trump was doing on border security, but were displeased with just about every other issue — including inflation.

Remember the inflation consternation that dogged the Harris and Biden campaigns?

“Voters remain gloomy about the economy, as 71% rate economic conditions negatively and 55% say it is getting worse for their family,” Fox reported.

Voters’ assessments of the economy have improved slightly since December, before Trump took office, but only 28% think the economy is improving under Trump. Additionally, 51% believe his policies are hurting the country, compared to 40% who

say they’re helping. That’s been a big challenge for the Democrats lately and has caused schisms along the lines of the generation gap.

The younger generation, as my own parents and grandparents soon learned, can be a lot less patient with the problems their elders tolerate.

For example, about half of Americans approved of the job Trump was doing a week after he took office, according to The New York Times average of dozens of leading polls. About 40% disapproved.

However, by the 100 days mark, his approval rating had fallen to around 45% and more than half of the country disapproved of his performance.

With much more drama coming down the pike in Trump’s global trade war, and as the deleterious effects of DOGE’s monkey-wrenching of the federal government begin to dawn on the public, it’s hard to imagine that voters will look more favorably on Trump or on the Republican majorities in Congress that have let him go unchecked.

Yet what voters need to hear is a clear and persuasive alternative to Trump’s framing of the problems facing the nation. The Democrats seem still to be struggling with strategic direction: Should they revive the “resistance” or (to quote Clintonista James Carville) “play dead.” Young Democratic insurgents have suggested a wave of primarying to get rid of feckless incumbents, and the old guard has bitten back.

In short, both parties show signs of unease with their current leadership. We may need a new generation of leaders to step in, but, first, we need to look for ways to give them some help.

The writer is a columnist for the Chicago Tribune.

he offered what would be his last Urbi et Orbi apostolic blessing. A short time later he would (rather symbolically) finally consent to the desperate meeting requests of an outspoken American Catholic: JD Vance, whose anti-Christian rhetoric the Holy Father vehemently opposed. The next morning, “the people’s pope” uttered his final words: “Thank you.” He then laid down, waved goodbye, closed his eyes and went to his eternal reward with a peaceful look on his face. As a fallen away Catholic, I confess that I didn’t exactly see eye-to-eye liturgically or theologically with Francis. Socially, however, he was worthy of being called a role model. Politically, you could call him a revolutionary – but a dictator? Please. It would appear MAGA Catholics suffer from a gross lack of self-awareness. The writer is a columnist and a former Kansas legislator.

Clarence Page

J. Basil Dannebohm

Pope Francis: an advocate for Black America

His Holiness Pope Francis made his transition on the morning after Easter Sunday, following his Easter blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and his tour of St. Peter’s Square in his popemobile. His doctors had advised him to take two months of convalescence, but this pope, this man of the people, wanted to be with them until the very end. He was of the people, and he wanted to reach them, touch them. Now he is gone. The world will miss this humble pope, a man who eschewed pomp and pageantry, instead embracing piety and populism. As a cardinal in Argentina, he rode the subway rather than a limo. As pope, he opted for more modest accommodations than the papal palace and dined with Vatican employees. He used the word “gay” — no other pope had — and insisted that homosexual brothers and sisters had a place in the church and in heaven. He did not go so far as to embrace gay marriage, but his modest step in the right direction caused resistance among other church leaders.

of climate justice, releasing an encyclical on climate change. He wrote, “Never have we so hurt and mistreated our common home as we have in the last two hundred years.” The encyclical (papal letter) was issued in 2015 and called for urgent action to combat climate change, protect the environment, and promote sustainable development.

Leaders, said the pope, must hear “both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.”

Francis was a spokesperson for the least and the left out,

visiting prisons wherever he went and washing the feet of prisoners to emphasize mutual humanity. He was an advocate for immigrants, stating in 2024 that those who knowingly and intentionally harm immigrants are creating a “grave sin.”

While countries around the world, the United States among them, are closing borders and instituting harsh measures against migrants, Francis advocated for their rights.

This pope was an advocate for social and economic justice, frequently addressing the economic gap between developed nations and those still developing. He embraced the concept

Francis also was a strong proponent of DEI. He appointed 163 cardinals since he assumed his papacy in 2013, diversifying the College of Cardinals by including members from countries that had never been represented, including cardinals from Mongolia, South Sudan, Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, and Côte d’Ivoire. This diverse set of cardinals will choose the

next pope. Will they embrace the Francis approach to inclusion, advocacy, and equity, or will they revert to the narrow white approach to the papacy, with the majority of leaders being European?

African Americans have a distinct, if not large, presence in the Catholic Church. Just 6% of us are Catholic. But the Catholic Church has had an impact on Black Americans, especially in its role in education. Often Catholic schools were not as harshly segregated as public schools, and in some cases, schools that focused on Black students were much better equipped than other schools.

Francis was radically different from the colonizing popes who encouraged European powers to “civilize” Africans. In many instances, Francis has instead denounced racism and discrimination and expressed solidarity with George Floyd, the congregants murdered at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C., and many others. In many ways, Francis was an anti-Trump, embracing immigration, climate change, DEI, and economic justice. In making a decision, the cardinals will determine whether to move forward with a dynamic Pope Francis agenda or backward to the exclusionary values of the past.

Black America had an advocate in Francis. Will we have another in the next pope?

The writer is a D.C. based economist and author.

Julianne Malveaux

Money, branding redefine college sports for student-athletes

By Stacy Watkins Capital News Service

Kris Trinidad plays defensive end for Old Dominion University’s Division I football team, where he tallied 45 tackles and 5.5 sacks last season. He’s also building his brand thanks to new laws that allow student-athletes to ink endorsement deals and get paid by the university.

“I feel like it’s teaching young guys how to be more marketable and prepare themselves for their future,” Trinidad said. “It gives them opportunities to express their true selves amongst the community.”

Trinidad is part of the growing class of student-athletes learning to navigate a new world of college athletics, one where player statistics, social media presence and sponsorship potential increasingly all matter.

The Rise of the Student-Athlete

The NCAA has allowed student-athletes since 2021 to profit from their name, image and likeness, or NIL.

The financial shift and its impact on college athletics have been dramatic. College athletes went from landing full scholarships and cost-of-living expenses to earning an estimated $917 million in the first year NIL was enacted, according to Icon Source.

New legislation passed by the Virginia General Assembly in 2024 opened the door for direct payments from schools. This shift is backed by a legal settlement known as House v. NCAA, which will permit schools to allocate up to $20 million annually to pay student-athletes. The case argued current, and even former student-athletes deserve a share of revenue generated by television deals, licensing agreements and even ticket sales. It recently received conditional approval from NCAA governance.

Virginia Commonwealth University student-athletes will be paid starting in the 2025-2026 year, with a projected $5 million allocation, according to CBS6 News.

The biggest NIL sums still go to marquee names. First-year Duke University power forward Cooper Flagg has a NIL valuation upwards of $4 million, according to 107.5 The Fan sports website.

However, players of all levels can find opportunities to build their brands. Former Virginia State University running back Rayquan Smith was dubbed “King of NIL” for receiving over 100 NIL deals, according to The Virginia Statesman. Not Amateurism Anymore

Brendan Dwyer, a professor at VCU’s Center for Sports Leadership, said the current NIL model is not sustainable for athletic departments.

“If all of a sudden they have to go out and find money through NIL to pay their athletes, it comes at the expense of so many other things for the athletic department,” Dwyer said.

Dwyer thinks schools are heading toward a professional model, and schools and athletes should be prepared. Although it might create other issues, employing athletes could be a solution.

“If you take a step back and you watch what happens on a Saturday afternoon in Tuscaloosa, or you watch what happened last weekend in San Antonio, those aren’t amateur sports,” Dwyer said. “That’s professionalism.” Community, Coaches and the Changing Game Coaches also are evolving in the new era. VCU recently hired Phil Martelli Jr. as its new head coach and he is stepping into the role at a transformative time. Martelli led Bryant University to an America East title and its first NCAA Tournament appearance in March.

“The revenue sharing and NIL stuff is not going anywhere,” Martelli said. “It’s become a major part of this, the transfer portals become a major part of this for everybody, at every level.”

Flying Squirrels split doubleheader but fall in series finale

Free Press staff report

The Richmond Flying Squirrels snapped a four-game losing streak with a 4-1 win in the first game of a doubleheader against the Akron RubberDucks on Saturday night at Canal Park, before falling, 2-1, in extra innings in the second game.

The Flying Squirrels (5-15) picked up their first win over the RubberDucks (13-6) this season behind a late rally in Game 1. Richmond trailed 1-0 entering the sixth inning before tying the game when Vaun Brown scored on a missed catch error as Aeverson Arteaga attempted a sacrifice bunt.

Later in the inning, Jairo Pomares belted a three-run homer, his team-leading fourth of the season, to put the Flying Squirrels ahead for good.

Nick Garcia (1-0) earned the win with two scoreless innings of relief, and Tyler Myrick recorded his first save, working around two hits and two walks over the final two frames.

Akron took an early lead in the third inning on an RBI single by Dayan Frias, the only run allowed by Flying Squirrels starter Jack Choate.

In Game 2, Richmond carried a 1-0 lead into the bottom of the ninth, but Akron rallied to secure a walk-off win.

Seth Lonsway took a no-hitter into the sixth inning and finished with one hit allowed over 5.1 scoreless innings, striking out three. The game remained scoreless until the ninth, when Diego Velasquez reached third on an error and scored on a sacrifice fly by Sabin Ceballos.

Braxton Roxby (0-3) entered for the bottom of the ninth but hit two batters to load the bases with one out. Jorge Burgos then delivered a two-run double for the RubberDucks’ victory.

Akron had several chances earlier in extras, but Richmond’s defense, including a diving stop and throw by Ceballos and a key strikeout by Roxby, kept the game alive until the ninth.

Jake Miller (2-0) picked up the win for Akron. Attendance for the doubleheader was 3,852.

The series concluded Sunday afternoon at Canal Park, where Richmond fell to Akron, 10-6, in the finale.

Following the road trip, the Flying Squirrels returned home to host the Somerset Patriots, the Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, through May 4 at The Diamond. Tickets are available at SquirrelsBaseball.com/Tickets.

Coaches need resources to get recruits to campus. In most cases, athletes are straightforward in what they’re looking for when choosing which universities to attend, according to Martelli.

“Then it’s up to us to decide what that looks like,” Martelli said. “Is that worth it, is it not worth it?”

Martelli would like to see multi-year contracts for athletes. There would then be the potential for contract buyouts within college athletics, similar to professional sports. Both parties can negotiate the terms and lengths of the contracts and try to find common ground.

“But right now if you go year-to-year, to have guys jumping in the transfer portal and shopping around, it isn’t the best for everybody,” Martelli said.

Former University of Virginia basketball Coach Tony Bennett unexpectedly retired in 2024, saying he no longer felt he was the best coach to lead the program in the current environment. Bennett, who guided UVA to the 2019 national championship, said NIL deals, along with the transfer portal, added aspects to his role that weren’t his strong suit.

“The game and college athletics is not in a healthy spot,” Bennett said. “There needs to be change.”

Community is also impacted when student-athletes solely chase money, said Ben Rekosh, a VCU broadcast student and sports commentator. College sports used to be built on the idea of student-athletes being integral to their community, by contributing to what makes their school and fan base great for three to four years.

“I think that it affects the community a lot,” Rekosh said. “There’s not really players anymore that people are able to to tie their hearts with and have a true connection with, if people are just jumping back and forth.”

Still, he understands why it could be in the best interest of athletes at their peak to move around and maximize their earnings.

One perk of NIL deals is that more college athletes are staying in school instead of going professional immediately, according to ESPN college basketball analyst Jay Bilas. They can continue their education while earning money, versus being pushed toward the pay-to-play professional route.

Top college players may earn more money and playing time than they would as rookies in the pros and would have more experience going into a draft.

New Kind Of Athlete

Athletes are not just a part of the university’s brand – they also have a personal business.

Thai Wilson, sports editor for VCU student-run paper The Commonwealth Times, said fans increasingly follow players, not just programs.

“You remember 2008 Florida winning the March Madness, or VCU making it to the Final Four in 2011,” Wilson said. “People don’t remember the players that played on those teams who made it all the way unless they were either a big name who made it to the NBA, or if it’s just a very memorable run.”

Wilson pointed to top recruit AJ Dybansta’s decision to go to Brigham Young University, a school not known for getting high-profile signees, as an example of how NIL has shifted power dynamics. That can benefit students and give them a better chance to negotiate for what they want.

“NIL’s landscape is starting to kind of open up doors for other programs to get higher recruits if they’re willing to pay for it,” Wilson said.

Risks And Reality

Student-athletes now have new opportunities, but with that comes risk. Especially for younger athletes still learning financial basics. For Trinidad, the key is using NIL to build the athlete experience.

Although NIL deals may give students more power, Trinidad worries some could be exploited by marketing agents or contract deals that they don’t understand.

“Because these guys — they’ll come in, make you a contract, and take 10% of your money,” Trinidad said. “It’s something young guys need to be wary of.”

He thinks high school athletics should start talking about brand building, contract literacy and financial management.

NIL deals are relatively new, with many rules in place around compensation and endorsement. Virginia law restricts athletes from NIL compensation from alcohol, cannabis and sports gambling, to name a few.

If the laws change and there is less regulation, there is a chance athletes could be taken advantage of.

“It gives you power, but power in the wrong hands can be bad,” Trinidad said.

VUU honors Greene, Rosales with top athletic awards

Free Press Staff Report

Virginia Union University recognized two standout student-athletes with its highest athletic honor during the 2025 VUU Athletic Banquet, held Thursday, April 24, at Hovey Field.

Taniyah Greene and R.J. Rosales were named recipients of the Athletic Director Trophy, awarded annually to athletes who demonstrate excellence both on and off the field or court.

Rosales, a redshirt sophomore quarterback from Immokalee, Fla., helped lead the Panthers to their first NCAA playoff victories this past season. A health sciences major, he completed 43 of 75 passes for 811 yards and nine touchdowns, while also rushing for 157 yards and four more scores.

Among his standout performances, Rosales passed for a career-best 233 yards against Kentucky State, earning CIAA Player of the Week honors. He also threw for 179 yards in VUU’s playoff win over Lenoir-Rhyne and rushed for 50 yards and a touchdown in the Panthers’ historic postseason win against Wingate.

Greene, a graduate student from Cheltenham, Md., studying for her master’s in social work, led the Lady Panthers basketball team in scoring. She averaged

for athletic and

14.9 points per game and earned All-CIAA honors. Greene also scored her 1,000th career point this season.

Her top individual performances included a 25-point game against Mount Olive and a 14-rebound effort against Bowie State. Greene notched five doubledoubles and had six games with at least 10 rebounds and six games with 20 or

more points.

“The athletic banquet provides an opportunity for the university to celebrate and thank our coaches, student athletes, leadership for the commitment and dedication exhibited throughout the year,” said Joe Taylor, vice president for intercollegiate athletics and community wellness. “We appreciate the value that they bring to our brand.”

Golf classic in Petersburg to benefit hunger relief, youth programs

Free Press staff report

The green at Dogwood Trace Golf Course in Petersburg will be more than just a place to tee off May 15 — it will be a space to honor the legacy of retired Col. Porcher L. Taylor Jr. and support several critical community initiatives. The Colonel Porcher L. Taylor Jr. Legacy Golf Classic, hosted by the Petersburg Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, is an annual event that brings together golfers, sponsors and community leaders for a day of charity and camaraderie.

The tournament, which celebrates the life of Col. Taylor, a distinguished military

officer, educator and community advocate, aims to raise funds for a variety of initiatives. These include the Downtown Churches United P.T. Taylor Walk Against Hunger, which provides essential food assistance to underserved communities, scholarships to help high school and college students pursue higher education and the Guide Right Program – Kappa League, a mentorship program focused on leader-

ship development and career readiness for young men.

“We are excited to bring together golfers, sponsors and community leaders to celebrate the enduring legacy of Col. Taylor,” said Scott Johnson, tournament chairman. “This tournament is about more than just the sport—it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

The event will take place at Dogwood Trace Golf Course, 3108 Homestead Drive, Petersburg. Registration is $125 per golfer, which includes green fees, cart, prizes and meals. The deadline to register is May 1. For more information visit ptgolfclassic.com.

Courtesy Old Dominion University Athletics

Richmond native Kris Trinidad, a defensive end at Old Dominion University, makes his mark on the field as he learns the ropes of college athletics.

Jairo Pomares

Brendan Dwyer

Rayquan Smith

Courtesy VUU Athletics

R.J. Rosales, Taniyah Greene and Virginia Union University Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and Community Wellness Joe Taylor pose with the Athletic Director Trophy during VUU’s 2025 Athletic Banquet, held April 24 at Hovey Field. Rosales, a quarterback, and Greene, a forward on the women’s basketball team, were honored

academic excellence.

Col. Taylor

Personality: Jaeda Perry

Spotlight on Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond’s 2025 Youth of the Year

When Jaeda Perry’s mother faced limited daycare options, she turned to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond.

The affordable and supportive environment not only offered a solution but fostered Perry’s personal growth. Now, as a high school senior, she is a testament to the club’s impact, having achieved the highest honor as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond 2025 Youth of the Year.

Each year, the club selects a Youth of the Year from among the teen members to recognize outstanding leadership, service, academic achievement and commitment to healthy lifestyles. The winner goes on to represent the organization at community events and in the statewide Youth of the Year competition. This year, the finalists also were recognized for their advocacy, resilience and ambition to become future leaders.

“It’s an honor to be chosen,” Perry said. “I want to be like an older sister to show the younger ones that they can do it too. I’m someone they know—someone just like them.”

The club also taught Perry essential skills for the future, including communication, goalsetting and teamwork, while fostering a strong sense of community and service.

Perry’s favorite activity at the club was the Keystone Leadership program, which teaches members how to achieve academic success, prepare for a career, and engage in community service. She shared that her experience in the program taught her the importance of using her voice and how taking action can make a meaningful

impact in the community.

“We learned about climate change and how to use social media to talk to local and state government officials,” Perry said. “We also learned to be advocates for the homeless in our community, building stockings filled with self-care, hygiene products and coloring books for kids.”

Like many high school seniors, Perry is juggling a range of emotions, including excitement about graduation, prom and attending college in the fall. She reflects on all she’s gained from the Clubs.

“Every year, there are new people, and I like meeting new people outside of school. It’s a very welcoming and social environment. It’s easy to make friends,” Perry said. “I will miss the people.”

Meet the high school senior who is Youth of the Year, likes going to the movies, plans to study linguistics in college and this week’s Personality, Jaeda Perry:

What is the Boys & Girls Clubs of America: Nonprofit organizations that offer afterschool and summer programs for youths ages 6 to 18, focusing on providing safe spaces, caring mentors and life-enhancing experiences.

When was the Metro Club of Richmond: In 1953 by several philanthropic families. Today, BGCMR has seven Clubs serving young people across Metro Richmond.

How many BGCMR clubs are there in the Richmond area: There are seven Clubs in Metro Richmond. Each club is deeply connected to its surrounding community, focusing

on providing the specific skills, interests and support that best suit members’ needs while meeting the ultimate goal of preparing young people to be life and career ready.

When were girls invited to join BGCMR: In October 1992, to better serve the entire breadth of Richmond’s young people, BGCMR officially expanded its membership to include girls and developed a full array of programming to meet the needs of all members.

My BGCMR is: South side.

My high school is: Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School.

Family members: Mom, Tina; stepdad, Aaron; sister, Ti’Eja; stepsister, Korey; stepbrother, AJ; grandmother, Ernestine; niece, Avaya.

Date and place of birth: Dec. 8 in Richmond.

Where I live now: Richmond.

When I joined BGCMR: 2014.

Why I joined BGCMR: My sister was in the program.

My club activities with BGCMR: SMART (Skills, Mastery, and Resistance Training) Girls, Torch Club, Keystone Club.

Most meaningful experiences with BGCMR: I will take the lessons about being present and attentive to my community members.

Most memorable moment: A sleepover at the Club where we played hide-and-seek, ate pizza, and had a dance party.

Reaction to being named Boys & Girls Club of Metro Richmond Youth of the Year: It’s truly an honor because I see so many outstanding youths at the community center who also embody the attributes of the Youth of the Year.

How I learned the big news: The Club director for South Side, Jade Tabb, told me.

Family’s reaction: They congratulated me and told me how proud they were of me.

Where the award will be presented: At the Teen & Community Center.

What I will receive in addition to the award: A college scholarship.

What motivates me: The impact I can have on others, my community, and the world.

Where I plan to attend college: Mary Washington or George Mason.

I will study: Linguistics and either Spanish or German.

Career goals: I’ll let the wind take me wherever.

How I start the day: I think of it as another chance to achieve my goals and passions.

Three words that best describe me: Reserved, comical and quirky.

Top three on my music playlist: Jhene Aiko, Trey Songz and Beyonce.

Something I love to do that

most people might never imagine: Despite being a picky eater, I do enjoy trying new foods.

Most influential person: My grandmother, because she embodies what a strong Black woman means to me.

Most influential book: “Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom has impacted me because it made me rethink the things we value in life and also how to maintain relationships. Next goal: Learn to live for myself, not others, as I enter adulthood.

Slump Choreography by Joshua L. Peugh Music by Various Artists

Echoing Past Choreography by Stoner Winslett Music by Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel Fading Creatures

A World Premiere by Yury Yanowsky at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

8-18 Tickets start at $25 | 804.344.0906 x224 | etix.com

‘Loving v. Virginia’ opera tells story of landmark case

By Leah Small

Richard and Mildred Loving were a brave and tenacious couple who made the existence of many American families possible. The marriage of Richard, a white man, and Mildred, a Black and Native American woman, was illegal in their home state of Virginia. The Lovings challenged Virginia’s long-standing anti, miscegenation laws and won in a landmark 1967 Supreme Court decision that struck down restrictions on interracial marriage in the U.S. Loving v. Virginia set the precedent for the legalization of same-sex marriage decades later in 2015.

The story of the Lovings’ triumph over racial injustice has been set to music in the opera “Loving v. Virginia,” a production by Virginia Opera and the Richmond Symphony three years in the making. In celebration of its 50th season this year, Virginia Opera sought to tell a story unique to the state and named Chesterfield County native and Damien Geter as composer. Jessica Murphy Moo wrote the lyrics of the opera as librettist, and renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves is stage director.

Geter said he hopes the story reaches those who may not know of the Lovings.

“As a native Virginian, the historical significance of Loving v. Virginia has remained with me since I was a teenager, but I’m finding there are many who are unfamiliar with this

landmark case,” Geter said.

The score blends opera with more contemporary Southern American sounds to evoke the

Stories, culture and community take center stage at Black Book Expo

Free Press staff report

Books will line the tables, rhythms will fill the air and stories — both written and spoken — will take center stage as the Elegba Folklore Society presents the 2025 Black Book Expo: A Conscious Literary Festival, May 10 and 11 at the Pine Camp Cultural Arts Center.

The two-day event runs from 3 to 7 p.m. each day at 4901 Old Brook Road and is free to attend, with a suggested donation of $10. The festival welcomes readers to explore literature, enjoy live performances and connect with both well-known and independent authors.

The expo will feature a diverse range of books covering topics such as Black history, social justice, health, science, African Diasporic culture, African spirituality, personal development, fiction and children’s literature.

Saturday’s theme, “Survival Strategies,” includes a keynote by author and historian Anthony T. Browder, who will speak on his book, “Survival Strategies for Africans in America: 13 Steps to Freedom.” Browder is also a publisher and consultant who has lectured internationally on African and African American history and culture.

On Sunday, the focus turns to “Honoring

Elegba Folklore Society Storyteller and teaching artist Kemi Abifarin brings tales to life during “The Calabash Experience,” part of the 2025 Black Book Expo, set for May 10 and 11 at the Pine Camp Arts Center. The expo, hosted by the Elegba Folklore Society, highlights Black literature, music and culture.

Our Mothers,” featuring music from Grammynominated vocalist Desirée Roots, a longtime performer known for her work in gospel, jazz and musical theater.

Children’s programming includes “The Calabash Experience” led by storyteller and teaching artist Kemi Abifarin, who blends narrative with cultural lessons to inspire and uplift young audiences. Performances throughout the weekend will include the Elegba Folklore Society’s African dancers and drummers Portions of the event will be livestreamed on the Elegba’s Facebook page, with books also available for purchase online. For more information, visit efsinc.org

Concert to feature young musicians and VCU Health Orchestra

Free Press staff report

Music Orchard Richmond (MOR) will host its first Sideby-Side Concert in collaboration with the VCU Health Orchestra on Friday, May 30, at 7:30 p.m. The free event at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart will bring together young musicians from Meadowbrook High School with experienced players from the VCU Health Orchestra. The concert will celebrate mentorship and the power of live performance, as

students from MOR’s school residency program perform alongside the orchestra’s members.

“This concert is more than just a performance — it’s a milestone for our students and a testament to the power of community partnerships,” said Elizabeth Kilpatrick, executive director of Music Orchard Richmond. “We’re incredibly proud to launch what we hope becomes a beloved annual tradition.”

According to a press release from Music Orchard Richmond,

the organization’s mission is to increase access to high-quality music education for K-12 students. The organization was recently named the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year by the Metropolitan Business League. For more information, visit musicorchardrichmond.com

gospel, bluegrass and blues traditions of Virginia, said soprano Flora Hawk, who stars as Mildred Loving alongside baritone Jonathan Michie as Richard Loving.

“The music being written by someone from Virginia, who is African American, means there’s a lot of textures in the music that you don’t get in normal opera,” she said.

Hawk, a biracial Black woman married to a white man, deeply connects with Mildred’s story and draws from her own experience for the role.

“If the Lovings wouldn’t have happened, I wouldn’t have been here,” Hawk said. “I wouldn’t have been able to marry the one I love and I wouldn’t have my son, and if I did, I’d be living in constant fear.”

Hawk, who lives in Montgomery County, Texas, learned more about Mildred by speaking with family, friends and reading biographies. Looking at family photos helped her dive into portraying intimate, loving moments.

“You can just see the love between them and the way they loved their kids,” she said. “The joy you see in those kids’ eyes, and everything that was going on, they just sheltered them from it.”

The Lovings married in Washington, D.C., where interracial marriage was legal, in June 1958. They returned to their community of Central Point in Caroline County. Weeks after their wedding, the local sheriff awoke them from their bed at 2 a.m. and arrested them for violating Virginia’s anti-miscegenation laws. The original ruling in Virginia ordered the Lovings to leave the state for 25 years. The couple moved to Washington, D.C., but wished to return to Central Point. In 1963, the American Civil Liberties Union argued on their behalf that under the 14th Amendment, interracial couples had the right to marry. The Supreme Court decision in favor of the Lovings was unanimous and effectively ended anti-miscegenation legislation remaining in 16 states — a relatively recent moment in American history.

“Loving v. Virginia” will be performed Friday, May 9, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 10, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, May 11, at 2:30 p.m. at the Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center. For more information, visit dominionenergycenter.com.

Dave Pearson Photography

Flora Hawk as Mildred Jeter Loving and Jonathan Michie as Richard Loving share a powerful moment on stage, joined by members of the chorus, in a scene from the world premiere production of “Loving v. Virginia.”

Courtesy

T.D. Jakes’ Dallas megachurch to be led by daughter, son-in-law

By Adelle M. Banks Religion News Service

Bishop T.D. Jakes is turning leadership of his Dallas megachurch, The Potter’s House, over to his daughter and son-inlaw — a move they said occurred after preparations “over the last several years,” but also five months after Jakes suffered a massive heart attack.

“I cannot afford, especially after November, to risk something happening to me and you be sheep without a shepherd,” Jakes, 67, told the congregation toward the end of the church’s Sunday, April 27, worship service after he had preached the day’s sermon.

The church’s announcement said he will continue as its “spiritual overseer” and chairman of the board.

His daughter, Pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Pastor Touré Roberts, were standing nearby when he asked the congregation to accept them as the new leaders. They have served as assistant pastors of the church since 2023.

The official appointment of the new co-senior pastors is expected later this year, and Jakes said it could occur by the church’s 29th anniversary in July.

The transition announcement lasted more than half an hour, with all three leaders speaking with emotion and Jakes’ wife, Serita, sometimes dabbing her eyes. The congregation stood, cheered and applauded often during the speech.

Jakes’ ministerial trajectory has led him from a West Virginia storefront church to a Time magazine cover to revival and cathedral pulpits. The younger couple have been pastors of One LA, a California-based ministry that is part of The Potter’s House.

“We stand on solid ground and a sure foundation, and we will honor it, respect it,” Touré Roberts said to Jakes in front of the congregation.

Sarah Jakes Roberts added that she, at times, wasn’t sure she had “what it takes” to follow her parents’ leadership.

“But then God showed me that you all didn’t always know if you had what it took either, but that God gave you the GPS to find what it took to stand up to the assignment,” she said.

“And I believe that the same God that has ordered your steps, to find what it took to stand up in any given moment, is going to order our steps to find what it takes to stand up to whatever’s on the other side of this ‘yes.’”

The leadership transition for Jakes also comes months after lawyers filed a defamation lawsuit on his behalf — the day after his heart attack in front of his congregation on the last Sunday of November 2024.

The suit argued Pennsylvania minister Duane Youngblood had falsely accused Jakes of attempted sexual assault. Youngblood, 58, is on parole after felony convictions for sexual assault and corruption of minors.

On Friday, April 25, a Pennsylvania judge denied Youngblood’s motion to dismiss the suit, saying “it relies on statutory provisions that are not applicable in this litigation.”

Jakes’ legal representation also asked a federal court to subpoena Google to reveal who posted videos about him on YouTube that were generated by artificial intelligence. In December, NBC News reported these videos “have implicated figures like Jakes in the Women’s conference offers spiritual growth, networking

Free Press staff report

A two-day women’s conference focused on worship, personal growth and spiritual empowerment will be held May 2 and 3 at New Life Outreach Church, 1005 Turner Road.

Hosted by Bella Women’s Ministry, the Rise and Bloom Women’s Conference will feature a lineup of speakers, musical performances and sessions designed to support women in exploring their faith and purpose.

Rosalinda Rivera, founder

of BWM and an author and speaker, will lead a worship session Friday evening followed by a social gathering. Saturday’s schedule includes additional sessions, live music, a luncheon and opportunities for networking and fellowship.

“If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost or overlooked—this is your moment,” Rivera said. “It’s time to rise. It’s time to bloom. And it’s time to step into everything God has for you.”

Scheduled speakers include Robyn Wilkerson, co-pastor of Trinity Church in Miami;

Karen Nicolson; Rita Benard; and Jackelyn Viera Iloff, a senior adviser and minister at Joel Osteen Ministries.

Musical guests Trenton and Mariah Benard will perform both days. The duo is known for their vocal harmonies and worship-centered performances.

Doors open Friday at 6 p.m. with programming beginning at 7 p.m. Saturday’s events begin at 10 a.m. with the lobby opening at 9 a.m.

Admission is free with pre-registration and a $20 donation-based ticket option also is available. Registration and details are available at bellawomen.org or through the event’s Eventbrite page. Ticket

sales close May 3. No refunds will be offered.

allegations against (rapper Sean ‘Diddy’) Combs without evidence and used manipulated media to depict the celebrities engaging in lewd acts and exaggerated displays of emotion in video thumbnails.”

An FAQ document that accompanied the church’s Sunday announcement said the changing leadership at The Potter’s House was “absolutely not” related to any wrongdoing by T.D. Jakes.

“This decision is based on faith, foresight and a commitment to generational leadership — not scandal or moral failure,” it said.

The Potter’s House was founded by Jakes in 1996 and claims a membership of 30,000.

“You didn’t know from November forward, they’ve been running the church anyway,” Jakes told the congregation about his daughter and son-in-law stepping up after his heart attack. “Now, they’re not meant to replace me because nobody can. … Every now and then, I think they’ll let me preach.”

The FAQ document, however, said the leadership transition had been in place before Jakes’ health crisis and that the announcement was unrelated to his health.

But Jakes, speaking on The Potter’s House stage, once again referenced being close to death during the November health crisis.

“I was afraid of letting God down and letting you down, and even to miss a service would make me sick because somebody might need me,” he told the congregation. “And even when I was dying, with my last breath, I was blessing you, and if I died blessing you, that was OK. … Thank you, Lord.”

Jakes, who also serves as chairman of enterprises dealing with real estate, entrepreneurialism and entertainment, said he has goals to accomplish beyond the pulpit and in the community.

“As I enter my 50th year in the public spotlight, I recognize the urgent need to address more challenges of our time, particularly the looming threat of a disappearing middle class, social unrest and closing opportunity gaps,” he said in a Sunday statement.

During the worship service, Jakes thanked and kissed his wife, giving her credit for supporting his decades of ministry.

“I could have never been me without you,” he said, prompting more cheers. “You’re absolutely amazing.”

Jakes also told his daughter and son-in-law he is confident in their leadership, though he acknowledged it won’t be easy.

“I know you might feel the weight sliding from my head to you,” he said before citing a verse from the New Testament book of Romans. “I know the crown is heavy, but also know that if God is for you, who can be against you?”

Rosalinda Rivera

Screen capture

Bishop T.D. Jakes, right, speaks at The Potter’s House with his wife Serita, from left, daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Touré Roberts, Sunday, April 27, in Dallas.