“As the nation anxiously braces for the new school year, Charlottesville City Schools took initiative to prepare parents and children for what’s to come. Some 3,900 Charlottesville students return to school on Wednesday after a year of virtual and partial in-class attendance.”
Author Archives: Patty Medina
Patty Medina joined Charlottesville Tomorrow as engagement reporter in 2021. She holds a master’s degree in journalism from Full Sail University and is also a 15-year Air Force veteran with three years of military foreign affairs experience.
Posted inGovernment and public institutions
Charlottesville Clergy Collective unpacks difficult conversations
Race is frequently analyzed in politics, education, medical care, and judicial processes. However, race and religion are two topics that are not often discussed in the same sentence. On Sunday, the Charlottesville Clergy Collective held a Livestream and panel entitled “Difficult Conversations: Religion and Race,” a follow-up to the 2019 series “Conversations on Reconciliation.” Anthea […]
Posted inWork/Life
Sneaker Thrifts thrive at Stonefield
During the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Black-owned businesses struggled to remain open. Fortunately for some business owners, they were not only able to remain open but also to thrive.
Posted inFrom the newsroom
Charlottesville Inclusive Media launches web show ‘Black Truths/White Truths’
This week, the Charlottesville Inclusive Media project debuted the first episode of its web show, “Black Truths/White Truths.” The show, hosted by Giles Morris, of Charlottesville Tomorrow, and Troy “Razor” Robinson, of In My Humble Opinion radio show, aims to highlight cultural conversations and equity-focused initiatives. The discussions will plainly illuminate how and why Black […]
Posted inRace and equity
With fresh funding, Peace in the Streets looks toward the future
The Charlottesville City Council has taken one step forward on the right side of history, according to Robert Gray, cofounder of Peace in the Streets. Earlier this month, the council voted in favor of funding the local anti-violence program. With the latest news of their funding, community members want to know how the money will […]
Posted inWork/Life
New clothing store provides positive vibez at Stonefield
While many Black-owned businesses closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ronnie took a leap of faith and launched a new business. The store has left its Angus Road location, and Ronnie recently celebrated its grand opening in the shops at Stonefield.
Posted inRace and equity
Pride and Prejudice: Charlottesville Locals Create Safe Spaces for Queer People of Color
On the heels of June’s Pride celebrations, Charlottesville residents reflected on what Pride means for people of color and the intersection in which they find themselves. Pride in Charlottesville has been a popular event but not without its flaws, as many voices from people of color are excluded.
Posted inWork/Life
Brewing resilience: Local roaster shares importance of balance as an entrepreneur
On Valentine’s Day 2020, Cheryl left her job in social work to focus on her business. JBird Café opened in March 2020 and shut down five weeks later due to the pandemic. Cheryl pulled from her pension to cover minimal costs at the start of the quarantine.
Posted inRace and equity, Work/Life
High on the Hog: Charlottesville Native Surprises Community with Feature in Netflix Documentary
In late May Netflix released a limited series entitled High on the Hog. The series explores African American culinary history and its influence on modern day food. As the docuseries gained popularity, Charlottesville area residents were surprised to see a familiar face: Niya Bates. Bates, who worked at Monticello as the Director of African American […]
Posted inRace and equity, Work/Life
Summer basketball league returns to Tonsler Park
Sunday afternoon, Charlottesville residents young and old took to the sidelines as 10 teams battled it out on the Tonsler Park basketball court. Those Sunday games have been a Charlottesville summer staple for eleven years, since Damien Banks founded the Banks Collage Basketball Association in 2010. Players and supporters alike are so committed, they come from […]
