Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

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Good morning, Richmond. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Col. W. Gerald Massengill, a notable former Virginia State Police superintendent who served under two governors and led the Virginia Tech shooting investigation, has passed away. 6 News
- ➤ Dozens gathered outside the Richmond City Justice Center for the eighth annual Day of Grace, Faith, and Hope to support inmates and staff, with Richmond Sheriff highlighting new security initiatives, staffing challenges, and the need for greater opioid treatment funding. 6 News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Richmond offers a vibrant start to 2025 with First Fridays art walk, the final week of GardenFest of Lights, and a historical re-enactment of Benedict Arnold's Raid among the top weekend activities. Richmond Times-Dispatch
- ➤ The 17th annual Cone Parade in Richmond's Carytown celebrated the new year with participants donning unique cone costumes to spread joy and positivity. Richmond Times-Dispatch
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ A Richmond school's dual-immersion program targets bilingual fluency in English and Spanish for young students, supporting cognitive growth and cultural integration. VPM
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Dr. Danny Avula was sworn in as Richmond's 81st mayor, focusing on school funding, improving city services, and affordable housing as his main priorities. 12 On Your Side
- ➤ Richmond anticipates significant transformations in 2025, including a new mayor, the election of Virginia's first female governor, and architectural developments reshaping the city's skyline. Richmond Times-Dispatch
- ➤ A Richmond legislator conducted an unannounced visit to Red Onion State Prison amidst allegations of abuse, leading to renewed calls for oversight. Richmond Times-Dispatch
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A new Virginia law mandates health insurance coverage for colorectal cancer screenings, preventing surprise billing for patients and promoting early detection. 6 News
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Richmond.
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Live Performance by Andrew Magruder at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Andrew Magruder, a multi-instrumentalist and producer with over a decade of experience in live music, will perform at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in Richmond.
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The Mitras Live in Richmond
The Mitras will perform live at The Broadberry, offering an engaging music experience for attendees.
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Tristan Dougherty Folk Music Performance
Folk musician Tristan Dougherty, known for his meditative guitar playing and impactful lyrics, will perform at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery.
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Richmond Book Club January 2025 Meeting
The Richmond Book Club gathers for its January meeting to discuss selected books, socialize, and share reading recommendations in a friendly environment.
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Candlelight Concerts: Neo-Soul Favorites Featuring Prince and Childish Gambino
Experience a live, multi-sensory musical performance featuring neo-soul classics from artists like Prince and Childish Gambino, illuminated by candlelight at the Bolling Haxall House.
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Candlelight Spring: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert
Experience a unique candlelight concert featuring the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons performed by the Listeso String Quartet at the historic Bolling Haxall House.
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11th Annual Megsmiles 5K Run
Participants can choose between an in-person 5K, a virtual option, or a Kids Run, all taking place at Atlee High School in Mechanicsville, VA.
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Weekly Worship Service
The River Road Church invites attendees to participate in a Sunday worship service both in-person and via livestream, featuring a welcoming community atmosphere.
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Onyx Storm Book Release Celebration
The event celebrates the launch of Rebecca Yarros' third book in The Empyrean Series, Onyx Storm, requiring proof of purchase for attendance.
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Trying to Speak Spanish RVA
This event offers a welcoming environment for Spanish speakers of all levels to practice conversational skills while engaging in discussions about language and culture.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

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Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Richmond.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.
~ Seneca
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