RICHMOND FIRST

A civic organization dedicated to responsible citizenship and the improvement of government since 1919.

THE CITIZENS' DEBATE

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Richmond First Sponsors Mayoral Debate on October 15

Mark your calendars for October 15, when Richmond First sponsors a lively forum for candidates for Richmond Mayor in the November election. This important event, a year in the planning, is integral to our mission of supporting informed civic education and involvement.

Five candidates will present their qualifications and goals for office during a "Citizens' Debate" at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture (VMHC), 428 N Arthur Ashe Blvd.

The event will be open to the public free of charge and aired live from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. by WTVR, Channel 6, co-sponsor of the debate. Other co-sponsors are the VMHC's John Marshall Center and the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

All five candidates for Mayor will participate: Andreas Addison, Danny Avula, Michelle Mosby, Maurice Neblett, and Harrison Roday.

The debate will be moderated by Greg McQuade of Channel 6. Panelists include Chris Coates, executive editor of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Reba Hollingsworth of Channel 6, and political analyst Bob Holsworth.

No campaign signs, shirts, balloons or other large campaign memorabilia will be allowed at the debate site, and the audience will be asked to remain quiet during the discussion, with the exception of the introduction of candidates and at the conclusion of the debate.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early, around 6:30 p.m. to be seated for the 7:00 p.m. live broadcast. Let's have a great showing by Richmond First members. This is a major event for our organization.



On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, the Richmond First Club Board of Directors awarded the 2023 Richmond First Good Government Award to James E Ukrop on behalf of its members and countless number of citizens of the greater Richmond Area.

Jim Ukrop is a true embodiment of the values of integrity, excellence, and service that we cherish and aspire to. He is a role model for inspired community service and a champion for good government and leadership.

Please join us in congratulating Jim Ukrop on receiving this well-deserved award.

The Richmond First founders shared a common vision of creating an organization that would inform the public and political leaders about a broad range of civic issues, policies and solutions. The spirit of enlightened activism that initially inspired the formation of the organization in 1919 lives on in our current review of and involvement in current issues in the Richmond metropolitan area. During its 104-year history, the organization has provided nonpartisan leadership on a number of issues critical to the quality of governance in the region. Through its work, Richmond First (RFC) promotes responsible citizenship and governance.

WHEN ARE MEETINGS?

Monthly luncheon meetings are held at noon on the second Wednesday of each month at Willow Oaks Country Club. Excellent speakers have long been the centerpiece of RFC's work. Known as a knowledgeable, informed group, our membership attracts respected, well-known leaders.

Speakers include educators, candidates for office, government officials, political analysts, and specialists in transportation, tourism, regional cooperation, health care, housing, and other matters of public interest.

WHO BELONGS?

Membership is open to all who want to stay well informed about community and governmental issues.

If you're looking for an opportunity to learn and to contribute to our region, RFC is the right choice.

IS RFC PARTISAN?

No, RFC strives to be nonpartisan in the selection of speakers and topics for meetings. Balance has always been a hallmark of the club and its leadership.

ADVOCACY:

RFC joins with like-mined organizations to advocate for good government and community development:

HOW CAN I JOIN?

Please check our Membership page for additional information.