Author Talk: Victoria Christopher Murray’s Harlem Rhapsody
Join bestselling author Victoria Christopher Murray for an insightful discussion about her newest book, Harlem Rhapsody, a compelling story that explores love, secrets, and the vibrant culture and notable figures of the Harlem Renaissance. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Sponsored by the Friends of Henrico County Public Library.
Saturday, June 28, 1 pm, Fairfield Public Library Meeting Room, Richmond, Va.
The dog days of summer have arrived. Photo by Bonnie Newman Davis.
As the sun graces us with its warm embrace and the days stretch longer, we joyfully welcome the vibrant season of summer. It’s a time when nature bursts into full bloom, painting the world with a kaleidoscope of colors.
The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass. Summer invites us to bask in the golden sunlight, whether we’re lounging on sandy beaches, hiking through lush forests, or enjoying picnics in the park.
It’s the season of refreshing dips in cool waters, the laughter of children playing outdoors, and the delightful taste of juicy fruits and cool as cucumber veggies. Barbecues sizzle with the promise of delicious meals shared with family and friends under the open sky.
As fireflies dance in the twilight and the stars twinkle above, summer offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and making cherished memories.
Welcome to the season of warmth, joy, and boundless possibilities! August (sunning and funning on her deck) welcomes you, too!
Robert L. Dortch’s debut collection of poetry and photography explores being a Black man in America, amid themes of identity, love, justice, and resilience
Robert L. Dortch Jr. recites a poem from his new book, “Cool Fire: A Black Man’s Poetic Odyssey, on June 19, 2025 at Richmond’s historic Hippdrome Theater in Jackson Ward.
The Juneteenth book launch for Robert L. Dortch Jr.’s “Cool Fire: A Black Man’s Poetic Odyssey” was a resounding success! Presented on June 19, 2025, at the Speakeasy Grill @ The Hippodrome in Richmond, Virginia, the event was a celebration of Dortch’s debut collection, which intricately weaves poetry and photography to explore the multifaceted experience of being a Black man in America.
The evening, presented by the Shockoe Institute, was a vibrant tapestry of art and conversation, featuring live poetry readings and a “Cool Fire Conversation” between Dortch and award-winning author Stacy Hawkins Adams. The event was further enlivened by a special performance from the celebrated musician and theater icon Desirée Roots, whose soulful melodies resonated with the themes of identity, resilience, and hope that permeate Dortch’s work.
“Cool Fire” is more than just a collection of poems; it is a profound exploration of identity, healing, and legacy. Dortch’s work invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and the broader societal context, offering a poetic path forward in challenging times. His poem “When Will Tomorrow Come: for Langston Hughes” poignantly captures the longing for a brighter future, echoing the timeless voices of the Harlem Renaissance.
The event was a testament to Dortch’s ability to connect personal stories with universal themes, encouraging a deep contemplation of humanity and the enduring impact of history. As Marland Buckner, President & CEO of the Shockoe Institute, aptly noted, “Dortch’s voice is a significant addition to America’s literary landscape, offering clarity and insight into the unique dimensions of Black American masculinity.”
“Thank you to everyone who made the Juneteenth book launch of ‘Cool Fire: A Black Man’s Poetic Odyssey’ at The Hippodrome Theater a success,” Dortch said a day after the event. “Last night, in the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance, we celebrated ‘An Evening of Cool Fire’. It’s almost 100 years since Langston Hughes authored his first book “Weary Blues.” In that spirit, ‘Cool Fire’ integrates poetry and photography to take readers on a poetic journey of what it means to be a Black man.”
Accolades also came from others who were part of the celebration.
“What an amazing few hours of being reminded of the power of words, and the power in embracing the vulnerability it takes to produce art that serves a great purpose,” said Adams, the author of more than a dozen books, who led conversations with Dortch, Buckner and author Gigi Armteau about his new work. “May Cool Fire open doors to doors to deeper introspection and healing discussions for all who read.”
Legacy sponsors for the evening included the Massie Law Firm, the BND Institute of Media and Culture Inc., and Rainmaker Industries Group.
Tracey G. Wiley, CEO of Rainmaker, said she is an avid fan of poetry and Harlem Renaissance writers, particular Langston Hughes, for whom Dortch pays homage in his book.
“The art of poetry allows us an array of emotions wrapped in rhythm, colorful scenes and black and white realities of life, love and pain,” said Wiley. “My company, Rainmaker Industries Group, LLC, is proud to be an investor in one our own native sons of Richmond, author, artist, and literary genius, Robert L. Jr. Dortch during the launch of his second book, ‘Cool Fire: A Black Man’s Poetic Odyssey’. Robert’s book is symbolically aligned with Juneteenth and our quest for liberation at a time such as this. I encourage everyone to get a copy of ‘Cool Fire’ and spend time journeying through our collective and shared communities.”
Bonnie Newman Davis, executive director of the BND Institute of Media and Culture, echoed Wiley. The “Cool Fire” book launch was the BND Institute’s third collaboration with Dortch and his JS Literary House.
“The launch of “Cool Fire” is a heartfelt reminder of the power of art to inspire reflection and honor our shared humanity,” said Davis, adding how much she enjoyed the evening’s strong sense of community. “Robert L. Dortch Jr.’s work stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, urging us to embrace our truths and triumph over adversity.”
“Cool Fire: A Black Man’s Poetic Odyssey,” is now available at Books-A-Million, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and other retailers.
Juneteenth holds special meaning in Hampton, Virginia. This city is not only where the first Africans in English North America arrived in 1619—it’s also where Fort Monroe earned the nickname “Freedom’s Fortress” during the Civil War because it served as a refuge for thousands of enslaved people fleeing the Confederacy, and where the Emancipation Proclamation was first read in the South, beneath the legendary Emancipation Oak at Hampton University.
With such powerful ties to African American history, Hampton is the perfect place to honor Juneteenth. From engaging museum exhibits to meaningful community events, there are many ways to reflect, celebrate, and learn. Here’s how you can take part in this year’s Juneteenth commemorations in Hampton:
June 14 from 11 AM – 2 PM | 📍 Outlook Beach at Fort Monroe | FREE
Remembrance is a spiritual ceremony honoring the millions of African men, women, and children who perished during the Middle Passage of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
The day’s events will include an annual Ceremonial Remembrance Walk around the Tree of Remembrance, a procession to the water, poetry, drumming and traditional songs and theatrical performances. At 12:00 noon an International Libation will be orchestrated by Baba Orimalade Ogunjimi of Ile Nago and will occur simultaneously internationally.
An Evening of History, Music, Laughter, and Secrets! This moving, often humorous, and memorable experience illuminates the origins and meaning of Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. You will laugh and you may cry; most of all you will be enlightened to the true meaning of Juneteenth, also known as ‘Freedom Day!’
Written and Directed by Marie St. Clair. Presented by the Hampton History Museum Association and Hampton Arts. Tickets are anticipated to sell out.
June 15 from 11:30 AM – 7 PM | 📍 Mill Point Park in Downtown Hampton | FREE
Celebrate Juneteenth in Hampton with a day of powerful reflection and joyful celebration! This annual event features live music, cultural performances, Black-owned vendors, food trucks, historical presentations, and family-friendly activities — all honoring the legacy of freedom and African American resilience. Don’t miss this vibrant community gathering!
The Soulful Tenors Former member of the Delfonics Joe BranchFormer members of Blue Magic-Fernando “Maurice” Kee and Robert “Buddy” Williamswill be thd Grand Finale!
Also, Phoebus HS basketball star and ” the Voice” contestant who chose John Legend ,Brian Darden II BDii will perform @the 4th Annual Juneteenth Celebration Sunday June 15th @Millpoint park in Hampton.
June 19 from 12-5 PM | 📍 Paradise Ocean Club | FREE
Celebrate culture, community, and summer vibes at this vibrant event hosted by the Virginia Black Film Festival.
Featuring: Live Performance by 5 Starr; A collective of musicians, Chris Whitaker, Curdarius Swain, Jonathan Frazier, and Robert Wilkins, unite to create an exceptional experience for listeners. One can expect nothing less than a 5-star sound!
Sign the online guest list and receive a free gift at the party!
June 19 | 📍 Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center | FREE
Celebrate Juneteenth with a free guided tour on Thursday, June 19, at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m., leading up to the Juneteenth Concert in Continental Park.
The 45-minute tour begins at the Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center (30 Ingalls Road), includes indoor and outdoor stops, and highlights the historic journey of freedom seekers. No registration required.
June 19 from 6 – 8 PM | 📍 Continental Park in Fort Monroe | FREE
Join us for the Juneteenth Concert on Thursday, June 19th, from 6–8 PM at Continental Park in Fort Monroe (4 Fenwick Road, Hampton, VA). Enjoy an evening of live performances, cultural celebration, and community spirit — free admission for all!
Celebrate Black stories through film, culture, and community at this multi-day festival in Hampton, VA. Featuring screenings, panels, red carpet events, and live experiences across Fort Monroe and Hampton University, the festival draws creatives, film lovers, and families alike.
Film Screenings – see a list of films here. For film schedule, go to VirginiaBlackFilmFestival.com/tickets and scroll all the way down. Click the white button that says “Screening Schedule.” Tickets are sold by Screening Block #s. Screening Blocks 1-4 are held at the American Theatre. Screening Blocks 5-10 will be at Ogden Hall at Hampton University. Weekend & Day Passes are also available.
Sessions by accomplished guest Speakers sold separately. See Tickets page for more info.
The Hampton Roads Black Business Expo is one component of the Virginia Black Film Festival. This entire event will be the place to celebrate Juneteenth in Hampton Roads and Buy Black, by supporting Black Businesses and Black Filmmakers!
The Black Business Expo will take place Saturday and Sunday (June 21-22nd) inside the American Theatre 125 E. Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663, co-located with the movie screenings and panels of the film festival.
Tip: Get the Hampton Black History Sites Pass. Access is free & the link is texted to your phone. In the below itinerary, the 📲 icon notes locations you can check-into on your pass!
Attire: White or Traditional African garb. Beach-appropriate shoes. What to Bring: Fresh flowers for the Ancestral Offering. Beach chairs, blankets, and other beach paraphernalia. Bring your DRUMS and other music makers to celebrate these Ancestors and this culture!
Lunch: After the ceremony, grab lunch nearby at Firehouse Coffee 1881, Paradise Ocean Club, or The Deadrise – all of which have outdoor seating!
Daytime: Then, make your way to the Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center 📲 and enjoy the AC as you browse the history exhibits. Before leaving, ask the staff about free tickets to the Casemate Museum and/or directions to the First Africans in Virginia Marker 📲.
Enjoy roaming around Fort Monroe – a popular area for casual exploring. History lovers might pack your headphones and listen to the cell phone tour as you venture, or you might just enjoy the view as you walk along the Seawall Trail. If you packed your beach gear, you might prefer return to Outlook Beach for some sunny rest & relaxation.
Lunch & Dinner: Don’t miss out on the all-day live entertainment at the celebration with tasty options from the food trucks that will be nearby or choose from one of the restaurants in Downtown Hampton.
Daytime: Take a break from the festivities and check the Hampton History Museum 📲 off your list. Located just a few blocks away from Mill Point Park, the exhibits here showcase the important contributions of African Americans to Hampton’s history.
Breakfast: Sleep in & enjoy a leisurely breakfast as before a day jam-packed with fun & celebration. Enjoy relaxing waterfront views at Copper Barley inside The Landing Hotel, savor beignets from Mango Mangeaux at Simply Panache Place, or stay at the Black-Owned Magnolia House Inn, a charming bed & breakfast.
Bring Your Own… nothing, really. Paradise Ocean Club is a one-stop relaxation & event destination offering a private beach, tiki bar, full-service restaurant, & more!
Bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on and enjoy an evening of live performances, cultural celebration, and community spirit by the scenic Chesapeake Bay.
Dinner:The Deadrise restaurant in Fort Monroe closes at 9 PM or you can plan to try a new place in Phoebus, which is just across the bridge as you’re leaving.
Check the schedule to see which films/screening blocks or speakers you want to plan your day around. Note: When visiting Hampton University, you’ll need to drive through the main gate to obtain a visitors parking pass.
Lunch: To stay on campus, you can eat at the dining hall – an impressive two-story atrium along the waterfront – or take a quick drive to nearby Palm Tree Caribbean for authentic Caribbean & Western food. Next door there’s also Palm Tree Vegan & Juice Bar with delicious plant-based meals even non-vegans enjoy.
Daytime ideas on the Hampton University campus:
Take a break & stretch your legs with a walk over to the Hampton University Museum (open weekdays 8 AM – 5 PM). Step inside the oldest African American museum in the U.S. and explore one of the most impressive multicultural art collections in America!
Visit the Emancipation Oak 📲 – the site of the first public Southern reading of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. With limbs sprawling over a hundred feet in diameter, the Emancipation oak is designated as one of the 10 Great Trees of the World by the National Geographic Society.
Bring your headphones & listen to the Cell Phone Tour for Hampton University, one of the country’s most prestigious HBCUs. The tour starts at the Armstrong Lincoln Memorial, but since it loops, you can jump to which ever stop is nearby – including the Hampton University Museum or Emancipation Oak.
Check the schedule to see which films/screening blocks or speakers you want to plan your day around. In between showings, visit the Black Business Expo being held in conjunction with the film festival.
Note: If attending at Hampton University, you’ll need to drive through the main gate to obtain a visitors parking pass.
Lunch
if at Hampton University you might take the opportunity to eat at the campus dining hall – an impressive two-story atrium along the waterfront.
if at The American Theatre in Phoebus there are several options within walking distance. Fuller’s Raw Bar is a must for oyster lovers or Black-Owned Native Soul Bar offers vegan meals to-go
Head to Downtown Hampton, where a section of Queens Way serves as an outdoor ‘streatery’ for several nearby restaurants. Today happens to overlap with Block Party Unplugged, so come sip, sway, & stay awhile under the summer sky!
Check the schedule to see which films/screening blocks or speakers you want to plan your day around. In between showings, visit the Black Business Expo being held in conjunction with the film festival.
Lunch: You won’t want to miss brunch at Mango Manguaux in Phoebus, whose menu features French, Creole and Neo-Soul cuisine.
Celebrating freedom, community, and the legacy of farming and land ownership
Courtesy, Footprints in the Garden
We are excited to invite you to our Juneteenth Festival at Footprints in the Garden, a historic farm that has been a cornerstone of agriculture in the Mount Olive community for over 142 years. Join us on June 21, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with VIP activities extending until 9:00 PM. This year, we are celebrating freedom, community, and the enduring legacy of farming and land ownership.
Event Details:
June 21, 2025 12 – 6 PM VIP Activities extending until 9 PM. $5 General Admission / Entry Fee $45 VIP Package with Cookout
For just $5.00 per person, your entry includes a range of fun-filled activities, including one-on-one horse rides, scenic hayrides through the 4 Martin family farms, and a community panel, focusing on the future of agriculture and sustainable practices, and the opportunity to shop with local vendors. You’ll also enjoy live Southern Soul music, and a Dance Party to round out the day. Be sure to bring your fans, cowboy hats, and boots as we dance and groove to the rhythm of the farm. Don’t forget your lawn chairs to relax and take in the festivities in comfort.
For those looking to enjoy an elevated experience, we are offering a VIP Package for $45.00 per person. The VIP package includes all the activities of general admission, plus a farm-to-table meal prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, access to an exclusive VIP Information panel where you can ask questions about agriculture, the impact the disruption of the food chain has on the country and an unforgettable evening of live music and dancing.
Whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out, an agriculture enthusiast eager to learn more about farming, or someone who loves the idea of dancing on the farm to soulful tunes, there is something for everyone. Footprints in the Garden is the perfect place to celebrate Juneteenth while connecting with the land and the people who make it thrive. Whether you live in the city or the country, we invite you to experience the charm of our historic farm and the warmth of our community.
We are now accepting vendor applications for the festival! Apply today to showcase your products and join the fun for only $20.00!
Venue Details
Footprints in the Garden 595 Mills Loop Road Mount Olive, North Carolina 28365
New Series Features Renowned Chefs and the Connections Between History and Cuisine
Courtesy Monticello News Release
Food Network star Chef Marc Murphy to headline inaugural program on June 26 and 27.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Thomas Jefferson Foundation, the private, nonprofit organization that owns and operates Monticello, announced today the launch of Culinary Diplomacy at Monticello. Presented in partnership with The Culinary Diplomacy Project, this dynamic new series will feature prominent chefs, culinary experts, and historians exploring the intersection of food, history, and culture.
Inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s legendary dinners which were renowned for their cuisine and conversation, this series will share how food has been—and continues to be—a bridge for cultural understanding and communication.
“Food has always been a vehicle for connection, and there’s no better place to explore the power of culinary diplomacy than Monticello,” said Jane Kamensky, president of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. “By inviting today’s most innovative chefs to interpret historic recipes and share their stories, we continue Jefferson’s tradition of using food to foster community, curiosity, and conversation.”
Culinary Diplomacy at Monticello will launch during Civic Season 2025 and continue throughout 2026 with quarterly events. The inaugural Culinary Diplomacy programming this June will feature Chef Marc Murphy.
Guests can participate in two ways. On June 26, join us at the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center at Monticello for a Culinary Conversation with Chef Murphy. This program will feature Chef Murphy discussing his own global culinary experiences and attendees will have the opportunity to savor his specially-crafted dish inspired by the event’s theme. Tickets available here.
On June 27, enjoy a curated dinner menu and evening discussion with Chef Murphy. Each of the three courses will include Monticello-grown ingredients and draw inspiration from Jefferson’s years in Paris, where he embraced refined French cuisine. This intimate dining experience offers a rare opportunity to explore history through food, all while enjoying breathtaking views from Montalto, Jefferson’s high mountain. Limited seating is available. Tickets available here.
About Chef Murphy
Son of a globetrotting diplomat, Chef Murphy brings over 30 years of experience from kitchens worldwide to the heart of New York City. He appears regularly as a judge on Food Network’s top-rated shows including “Chopped,” “Guy’s Grocery Games,” “Guy’s Ranch Kitchen,” “Beat Bobby Flay,” and more. He currently hosts intimate private dining events at MM Kitchen Studio in New York City and monthly dinners at his pop-up restaurant concept, Marc179.
Today, Murphy’s involvement in the industry moves beyond the kitchen. Having led the Manhattan chapter of the New York State Restaurant Association and passionately supporting organizations like City Harvest, No Kid Hungry, Made by Dyslexia, and The Culinary Diplomacy Project.
In 2022, Murphy joined Chef José Andrés and his organization, World Central Kitchen in Poland, where he spent two months cooking for and feeding thousands of Ukrainian refugees as they crossed the border into Poland.
About the Culinary Diplomacy Project
The Culinary Diplomacy Project is a chef-driven nonprofit organization that sends prominent chefs to destinations around the world as representatives of American culture and cuisine. They use food, the great common denominator, to connect and learn about the people they are visiting, while also sharing their own culture. Following each international trip, the chefs engage with American audiences by participating in events around the country designed to share their experiences.
Through these activities the Culinary Diplomacy Project acts as a resource, builds networks, and brings communities together in an effort to bridge the cultural divide one bite at a time. For information, visit culinarydiplomacyproject.org.
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About The Thomas Jefferson Foundation at Monticello
The Thomas Jefferson Foundation was incorporated in 1923 to preserve Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, in Charlottesville, Virginia. Today, the foundation seeks to bring history forward into national and global dialogues by engaging audiences with Jefferson’s world and ideas and inviting them to experience the power of place at Monticello and on its website. Monticello is recognized as a National Historic Landmark, a United Nations World Heritage Site and a Site of Conscience. As a private, nonprofit organization, the foundation’s regular operating budget does not receive ongoing government support to fund its twofold mission of preservation and education. For information, visit monticello.org.
Media Contact: J.A. Lyon, Director of Marketing & Communications, jlyon@monticello.org.
The Commission will meet this month to approve the statue of Barbara Rose Johns for the U.S. Capitol’s Statuary Hall Collection
The Barbara Rose Johns maquette as shown from the sides. Photo credit: Julie Langan/DHR.
RICHMOND – The Commission for Historical Statues in the United States Capitol (the Commission) will hold its twelfth public meeting on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The meeting, which begins at 1:30 p.m., will be in the Reynolds Leadership Center on the 2nd Floor of the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, located on 428 N. Arthur Ashe Boulevard in Richmond.
At this meeting the Commission will review photographs of the completed bronze statue created by sculptor Steven Weitzman depicting the 20th-century civil rights leader Barbara Rose Johns, as well as receive an update regarding the statue’s production. After the statue has been given the final approval from the Commission, the Joint Committee on the Library, and the Architect of the Capitol, it will be installed in the United States Capitol as one of Virginia’s two contributions to the Statuary Hall Collection.
Production of the full-size Johns statue began after the Commission and the Joint Committee on the Library approved the maquette in 2023. The Johns statue will replace the statue of Robert E. Lee that was removed in December 2020. To recommend a replacement statue, the Commission had reviewed a list of names of historical figures submitted by Virginia citizens before selecting Johns from five finalists. The Joint Committee on the Library approved the Commission’s request to erect a statue of Johns in the U.S. Capitol in 2021.
The meeting agenda, as well as instructions for how to participate virtually and to register for public comment, are available on the Commission’s webpage. Though the meeting agenda includes time for verbal public comment, written comment is also welcomed and can be submitted to USCapitolCommission@dhr.virginia.gov.
For more information about Barbara Rose Johns, please visit this link.
The Department of Historic Resources, the Commonwealth’s state historic preservation office, provides administrative support to the Commission. Questions concerning the Commission, its purpose, and the upcoming meeting should be directed to the department.
Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook is hitting the road this summer, and her first stop is Roanoke! Join us on Wednesday, June 25 at 6 PM for the kickoff of Visionary Voices, a statewide series of events where you can meet the new Executive Director of the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP). Dr. Cook will share the inside scoop about how Virginia Interfaith works with community members, advocacy, organizations, and legislators, to impact positive social change. You’ll learn about legislation we work on advocating for maternal health, higher education in prison, affordable housing, and worker rights. This event will be held at Twisted Tracks Brewery, where guests are welcome to purchase their favorite beverages and snacks directly from the venue’s menu. Want to bring Visionary Voices to your area? We’d love to partner with you. To host a future stop on Keisha’s tour, please email Development Manager Tania Doles with your proposed date, time, and venue at tania@virginiainterfaithcenter.org.
Najee, Avery Sunshine and Will Downing are among the entertainment highlights during this year’s Capital Jazz Fest June 6-8 at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Md.
Nicole Moore and Joseph McGill of the Slave Dwelling Project will conduct cooking demonstrations in Meadow Farm’s outdoor kitchen on Saturday, June 7 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The life of the enslaved cook and other topics will be discussed.
The Slave Dwelling Project, in Henrico County, Virginia, focuses on preserving and educating people about the history of slavery, particularly by highlighting and preserving former slave dwellings. The project, founded by Joseph McGill, also encourages open dialogue about slavery and its legacy. Campfire conversations and living history demonstrations are among some of the programs the Slave Dwelling Project has hosted to bring attention to and raise public awareness about the stories they hold.
Joseph McGill’s Role: Joseph McGill, a descendant of enslaved people, is the founder of the project and has been actively involved in its initiatives. as well as others who were enslaved.
Preservation and Education:The project’s core mission is to preserve slave dwellings and use them as educational tools to understand slavery’s history and impact.
Dialogue and Engagement: Open conversations about the past, the enslaved, and enslavers are encouraged with the goal to reconcile how history has been taught and shared.
Events and Outreach:The project hosts events like campfire conversations, living history demonstrations, and open houses to engage the public and raise awareness.
BND Institute of Media & Culture 