SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY
05.06.10
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•P2 Local schools host national expeditionary learning event
•P5 Find out what to do in the busy days of May
•P7 Girls’ soccer teams prepare for the third annual Kick for the Cure.
•P10 Student achievements throughout the county.
•P11 It's real 'mudder' on the laundry after this dirty (but fun) race.
Resources are available for victims of domestic violence, abuse BY ZAIN TAUB special correspondent
T
here are men, women and children in Chesterfield who have been affected by domestic violence in some way. A growing problem overall, domestic violence has risen slightly in Chesterfield County. Chesterfield Police, along with other county departments and state agencies, have arduously worked together to assist victims of domestic violence and abuse. “Everyone is affected by domestic violence because it’s a societal problem,” said Patricia Jones-Turner, coordinator of the Sexual and Domestic Violence Resource center in Chesterfield. “Violence in the home breeds violence in the community. The children in these homes are witnessing that the only way to solve problems is through violence.” Statistically the numbers are difficult to sometimes track because domestic abuse is a silent crime that remains hidden within families until the abuse becomes physical. The Chesterfield County Police Department has set up a Domestic Violence Task Force that is trained to deal with abuse. Over a four-year period there has been a 2.9 percent increase in domestic violence calls, from 8,558 to 8,806, according to 2008 county data. The center’s list of resources available to victims and witnesses of domestic abuse reads like a long grocery list. The resource list includes phone numbers for everything from counseling to shelters; information about protective orders and safety orders; and programs available for children in abusive families. Officers responding to a scene of a potential domestic violence call are able to discreetly provide the information to the male or female victim. “We are hoping they will leave, but we leave it as a choice keeping in mind that violence escalates when a woman tries to leave … We let them make the decision because they know what is best for them,” Jones-Turner said. “You can’t really judge how bad the case is based on our perspective.” Law enforcement has also partnered
Teen pilot focuses on mastering flight BY ELIZABETH FARINA efarina@midlothianexchange.com
Getting a license is a rite of passage for a teenager. It requires, among following many rules and regulations, keeping the speed down in order to stay out of trouble, but for Jordan Ambers, 17, being able to handle top speeds is required in order to get the plane off the ground. Ambers, who received his Federal Aviation Administration private pilot license in March, took interest in learning to become a pilot from his grandfather Larry Hollada. The Monacan High School senior recalled riding with Hollada in 2002 when he was 9 or 10 years old as being very different than being a passenger in a commercial plane. “With the airline, it’s almost like sitting in Flight video ONLINE a room that’s midlothianexchange.com moving, but with the small plane – it’s more like you’re flying,” Ambers said. He began to study when he AMBERS P3
PHOTO BY ELIZABETH FARINA
Monacan senior Jordan Ambers completes the pilot's checklist before takeoff at Chesterfield County Airport.
Hamlin promotes physical fitness
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Sign up now for Regional River Clean up in June Courtesy of James River Advisory Council
The James River Advisory Council will hold its 11th Annual James River Regional Cleanup on June 12, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in multiple localities along more than 70 miles of the James. Each year, volunteers on foot and in boats, converge at selected sites along the river in Central Virginia to fill hundreds of bags with trash and recyclable materials. Groups also target areas along streams that flow into the James. Months of wet weather leading up to this year’s event have resulted in a Chesterfield lot of litter to pick County River up. In addition to trash discarded diClean-up rectly in the James, locations: rain runoff carries trash downhill Dutch Gap along thousands Boat Landing of miles of roadside ditches and streams, and evenFalling Creek tually to the James Ironworks River. The event’s theme, “Cleaning up the source,” Robious is designed to Landing trigger thoughts about the origins of the trash that is collected while encouraging people to help stop litter at its source. No matter where someone lives in Central Virginia, there are James River Regional Cleanup sites within an easy drive. Paddlers and power-boaters are encouraged to participate. Those interested can sign up at jracva.org. Registration also is available by calling (804)717-6688. Other counties' locations are available online.
PHOTO BY KENNY MOORE
Joe Gibbs, left, and Denny Hamlin, right, spoke with Coca-Cola Track Walk participants about the importance of staying acting and being healthy at the conclusion of the first track walk held at Richmond International Raceway. Hamlin weighs in on his struggles to stay physically fit after his recent knee surgery. Story on page 7.
Public invited to participate in Interfaith Dialogue in Bon Air by M. Imad Damaj, Ph.D.
Over 80 people gathered on Thursday evening, April 29, at the Islamic Center of Virginia as part of the second annual trialogue between the Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities in the Bon Air area. The aim of the dialogue is to deepen a mutual understanding and appreciation among the three Abrahamic religious communities in the area. It also aims at building mutual respect among neighbors from different religious traditions by empowering them to have a dialogue, understand and know each other. Understanding and relationship-building among various faith traditions are vital to sustaining America’s tradition of religious freedom, diversity and pluralism and to foster a shared project of one nation. Some people have expressed skepticism about these encounters and believe that differences in religious doctrines are too wide to bridge and each has its own path. Others fear that this encounter is going to dilute their religious identities into some “universal” religious mush for all or give the impression that we all equally worship the same God following different paths. Dealing with one another with respect, positive engagement, and dialogue does not mean that differences in doctrine and interpretation do not matter. Rather, it means that those differences must be addressed
PHOTO BY BRIDGET HAZEL
Nancy Woodlief, left, Sihiaheen Mustafa, M.D., center, and Frances Seiden, share similarities and differences about their religions at the first of three Interfaith Dialogue events. The next event is scheduled for Thursday, May 6.
through free and open dialogue. It is this open, free, and dignified dialogue that allows the followers of various religious traditions to affirm their diversity and discuss their similarities and differences. People engaged in the dialogue are expected to remain loyal to their traditions in broad outlines while reaching out to the other. In fact, one of the outcomes of last year’s dialogue is the recognition that one does not need uniformity to seek common ground. The theological and historical differences between the three religious
traditions are considerable, but not impossible to discuss. The duty of the faithful is, therefore, not to judge others and look down on those who have different understanding of faith, but respect choices and try his or her best to live an upright life and manifest the values of his and her faith through good work and good deeds. By having these encounters and providing opportunities of positive engagement, we can work toward a more harmonious Richmond region in which all people of good will share concerns in a
civil manner, promote hope and not fear, and together enrich the civic life of our community. We are an amazingly diverse society but we need to make sure that our encounters are not superficial. We are all riding the same ship and are increasingly aware of the other people around us, but we are doing just about everything we can to avoid real interaction. We cannot escape anymore the fact that our neighbors around us are “different” and that we are
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QUESTION OF THE WEEK Mother’s Day this Sunday, May 9 – so, what’s one thing you’d like to tell your mom.
Robious Elementary and Middle schools host national event BY LATIKA LEE Special correspondent
R Elizabeth Farina EDITOR editor@midlothianexchange.com
"You’re the greatest mom! I could never have achieved the things I do without your support. Happy Mother's Day! Oh, and you are right about everything!"
Sara Page SPORTS EDITOR sports@midlothianexchange.com
"Even though we’re nearly 600 miles apart, you’re here (and I am there) every day in my heart, thoughts and prayers."
obious Elementary and Robious Middle schools recently were the host sites for a national seminar on Expeditionary Learning. Nearly 90 educators from across the United States visited the neighboring complexes on Robious Crossing Drive to see how each school developed a unique K-8 community of learners through consistent instructional practices, a common language and character development. Both schools use the Expeditionary Learning model, which is an inquiry-based approach that seeks to improve school culture by making the curriculum more relevant to students through motivation. “A learning expedition begins with the content of the SOLs, but it is not a curriculum,” said Anne O’Toole, principal at Robious Elementary School. “A teacher selects several grade level SOLs – often in science or social studies– around which to build the learning expedition. Usually there is some social significance to a compelling topic that is ultimately selected for the expedition. For example, the Civil War becomes a vehicle for understanding civil rights; water and fish in the James River becomes a springboard for understanding our responsibility to protect our environment.” Seminar participants were welcomed by a team of collaborators including Javaid Siddiqi, Robious Middle School principal, and Chesterfield County Public Schools Superintendant Dr. Marcus Newsome. Robious Elementary became the first Expeditionary Learning school in the state of Virginia in the academic year 2005-2006, followed by Robious Middle in 2006. Today, there are 18 Chesterfield County schools that use the model including Bon Air, Crestwood and Greenfield Elementary schools, where they have been utilizing it since 2009. Students attending these schools are in the “feeder pattern” to advance to Robious Middle.
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with physician offices as a place to leave information for victims in a safe and neutral environment. “In general, the medical field would be able to help the victim. We do get calls from hospitals when the victim comes into the emergency room and wants to make a report but until the victim does want to make a report we won’t get called unless it is a case of child or elder abuse,” said Sharon A. Lindsay, Chesterfield County Police Domestic Violence Resource Coordinator. “People report abuse to their doctors and we want doctors to have resources they can give out,” she said. Some of the difficulty in measuring domestic violence statistics stems
PHOTO BY LATIKA LEE
Robious Elementary Principal Anne O'Toole. right, brainstorms with Scott Kiplinger of Arlington County and Maurine Larkin of Glen Burnie, Md. (not pictured) to plan a learning expedition.
“Each class becomes an adventure,” Siddiqi said. “The self-directed learning method levels the playing field for all students to achieve their greatest potential. Through the different projects, they explore shared guiding questions developed by teachers, which reinforces the students’ shared discovery.” In a traditional approach, the teacher teaches the content in thematic units. Under the expeditionary learning model, the information is “uncovered” and is weaved into all subject areas including social studies, language arts, science, math and arts. Students are engaged in first-person journal writing and artifacts research, as well as fieldwork and an opportunity to hear from expert speakers on various subjects. There are other resources such as reading unique books, secondary source documents and fiction novels. “I’m here because we’re a brand new charter school and are exploring many options,” acknowledged Principal Maurine Larkin of Monarch Academy in Glen Burnie, Md. “By coming to these types of state seminars and bringing teachers together, we get a vision of where we want to be. What we see is that the students acquire very indepth knowledge … Even the parents are learning through this model.” The seminar training included interactive workshops where participants observed classes in
from the fact that some victims, especially men who have been victimized, do not want to report the incident. Other victims do not have access to the help they need and even others do not want to leave the situation. In fact, according to The Howard Journal of Criminal Justice, women experience on average 35 incidents of domestic violence before seeking help. Regardless, police officers are trained to deal with these cases and help victims even if they do not make an official report. There is mandatory and non-mandatory training given at all experience levels for police officers. Recruits as well as patrol officers go through training. Currently Lindsay is working with
“What we do with our officers is that when you get that [domestic] call, officers make it a priority and treat the victims with respect, and investigate those crimes the best they can when victims come forward. Usually when they call the police, it’s not the first occurrence of abuse,” Lindsay said. The problem is that usually when the police are called on these cases it’s not the first time that domestic abuse has occurred in the 1-800-838-8238 home, Lindsay said. Another detrimental abuse to men, women and children that has no legal Henrico and Richmond implication is mental abuse. Police departments to orga“Mental abuse for a vicnize a conference in the fall tim is very damaging. When where officers are trained to it becomes illegal is when respond to stalking, sexual there is a physical threat and domestic violence. made. Mental abuse often
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action, participated in learning labs in which they could ask students and teachers questions at any time, and discussed how Expeditionary Learning works in the classroom. A highlight for seminar participants was an outing to Agecroft Hall. Fifth-grade students from Robious Elementary demonstrated what they had learned about the Tudor period by dressing in period clothing and serving as historic interpreters as an example of one type of exhibition where students displayed selected work in a formal way beyond the classroom. They also “tweeted” using the social media application as a tool for learning. Typically, for at least a two-month period, the students worked in teams to conduct research, peer critiques, and solve problems. They completed multiple drafts of their art and writing projects, which improved the quality of their final product. “As a parent, Expeditionary Learning connects perfectly to 21st century learning because you take what you’ve learned in class and apply the skills to your real life,” said Patty Carpenter, Midlothian District School Board member. “I have found, especially with my son, Ian, that not only does he learn the facts, but he has the background knowledge. And he’s retaining all of it. He retains the facts much better because he’s experiencing them instead of memorizing them by rote. It’s wonderful to see him engaged at this level.”
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happens more than physical abuse, but it can happen at the same time of physical abuse,” Lindsay said. Chesterfield has created a program called R.E.A.C.T for children in abusive homes. This program helps children deal with the traumatic feelings they face during the abuse. When these feelings aren’t addressed children are set up to be either the abusers or the abused later in life. A child’s behavior is another sign of trouble at home. Children are like sponges, stated JonesTurner. They are not preprogrammed to be violent. Children who cry a lot for no reason, show anger, seem to be daydreaming or distracted and show guilt are signs. School
and church nurses can be valuable at detecting abuse. Sometimes children come to the nurse with headaches or stomach aches with no plausible reason. They just New Advanced Biodegradable need a place where they can Degreaser / Soap Solution! FOR THAT EXTRA CLEAN LOOK!!! be alone and think. Even during a time of Cleans Mold, Mildew & Dirt recession and budget cuts the Domestic Violence Taskforce Equipped to wash is determined to educate and any size house, deck, give victims a better option roofs, brick or cement! than their current one. If you are currently in an abusive Ed Waggoner relationship, you can call O: 378-4207 Sharon Lindsay at (804) 751C: 437-3335 Lic. Ins. 4113 or Patricia Jones-Turner at (804) 706-1267.
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RideFinders celebrates a Green Carpet event ‘cool’ to be environmentally aware,” Special correspondent said Lewis. “Knowing by communiideFinders, a division of cating this to the public, people would GRTC Transit System, choose to carpool, vanpool, walk to presented awards to media work, take a bus, or stay indoors on personalities and local poor air quality or red letter ozone leaders during its Green Carpet event days, resulting in better control of the on Thursday, April 22. The event was environment and control of the air we held on Earth Day at GRTC’s new breathe." 412,000 square-foot corporate headRidefinders’ staff members work to quarters in south Richmond. GRTC move more commuters in fewer veCEO John Lewis and RideFinders hicles throughout the central Virginia Executive Director Von Tisdale preregion with the mission to conserve sented corporate awards in addition energy, protect air quality and into recognizing members of the broad- crease the efficiency of the regions’ cast media. transportation network. To that end, RideFinders offers free commuter Boehringer Ingelheim Chemicals, Inc., services, which allows commuters to United Methodist Family Services and reduce commuting expenses, reduces Virginia Retirement Services were traffic congestion, reduces traffic’s ef- recognized, respectively, for their carfects on the ozone, and relieves stress. pool, telework and commuter choice For their team effort in reporting vital programs. The William Byrd Cominformation, meteorologists, traffic munity House was recognized for reporters and executives from WTVR being a lead provider in the Swipecard 6, WRIC 8, and WWBT 12 were Program. applauded for their commitment to “I’d also like to recognize our partnotification about traffic conditions, ners at the [Virginia] Department of increasing awareness about “Take Environment Quality who continue Transit Day” and monitoring Code to provide excellent information and Red Ozone Action Days forecasts. keep us up-to-date with valuable “We’re honored to recognize those data,” Lewis said. “They work handwho steadfastly communicated air in-hand with the meteorologists who quality, environmental and ozone convey that important information on messages for many years before it was a daily basis. This is crucial in helping BY LATIKA LEE
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them to gain environmental status in a timely manner.” Invitations announcing the event encouraged attendees to be green and carpool to the event with a friend or colleague. Corporate “Green Partners” included The Innsbrook Foundation, The Kleanekare Team, and Pfizer. Walgreens was recognized as a “Transit Partner.” Each corporation was acknowledged for their partnership with the regional non-profit rideshare agency. Guided tours of the new facility for GRTC administration and operations were conducted, showcasing the 12-acre site. The complex contains two separate buildings connected by a second story bridge and utilizes “green building” LEED practices in pursuit of the LEED Silver Certification. It houses transportation and administration, bus maintenance, service and inspection lanes, bus storage, and various support activities. Print media partners, the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Style Weekly, Richmond Free Press and Richmond Parents Monthly were also acknowledged. To learn more about ride sharing, contact RideFinders at (804) 643-RIDE or visit ridefinders.com.
'J'Adore Fashion' Show
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Jame't Jackson, senior Fashion student, designed and created her Going Gaga outfit
"J'Adore Fashion" Fashion Show held at Manchester High School. The Fashion Marketing, Advanced Fashion, and Advanced Marketing classes worked to plan and design the many aspects involved in presenting the program. The six scenes presented include: Going Gaga, Summer Daze, Remember the Time- A tribute to Michael Jackson A Night to Remember - Prom, 2010 fashions Game Time All About the Pink - courtesy of Karen Speers, instructional consultant for CCPS
a lot of studying in order to prepare for the oral and written exam. He only had 51 hours under his “wings” PHOTO BY before receiving the final ELIZABETH FARINA check flight before certification. However, his understanding of the plane really Jason Ambers translates in operation as he keeps his eyes demonstrated a quick round on the sky during trip flight above Chesterfield, a flight in April. The 17-year-old Powhatan and Goochland Monacan senior counties after the interview obtained his pilot's for this article (video online license in March. at midlothianexchange.com). Over the summer he hopes to complete his instrument-rating certificate before heading off to college. “I hope to take trips and stuff like that when I’m in college and eventually get my commercial rating,” he said. he was 14 in ground school plane into New York’s Hudsolo flight at 16. “That was lada, have been supportive He also understands at the Chesterfield County son River in January 2009. a big goal. I could fly an of Amber’s pursuit in flight. that the hobby of flying is Airport with Dominion Avia- airplane by myself before I “His skills, obviously, are In fact, Amber and his uncle not cheap. He umpires in tion, which is now Heart of great. But the whole-calmcould drive. I even got my flew to St Simon’s, south of baseball as well as assists his Virginia Aviation. Although under-pressure – which is motorcycle learner’s permit Savannah from Atlanta over mom Kitty at her Richmondmany aviation students are before I could drive,” he spring break. He thoroughly practiced – he remained calm based business WorkSmart older, and Ambers’ age made said. “My parents are very when it actually happened. enjoyed the experience of Consulting, and tries not to him a stand out, he felt com- trusting. I do what I’m supThat’s the big test,” Ambers viewing the coastline from spend money on anything fortable among his student- posed to do. If that wasn’t the above. His grandfather served said. else. pilot peers and instructors. Ambers added that it took case…” Ambers said with a as Aircraft Owners and Pilots At one time, Ambers “Everyone’s been supportive,” shrug. Association Mentor durAmbers said of instructors. His parents Kitty and ing Ambers’ training. He is “The guys here know what Anthony Ambers, younger also inspired, as much of the they’re talking about.” brother Corey, 15, his uncle nation has been, by Captain He completed the written Jonathan Hollada, a pilot, Chesley Sullenberger, the test at 15 and flew his first and grandfather Larry Holpilot who glided a passenger
Save the Date
Free Health Seminars in May The VCU Medical Center will be offering the following free seminars during the month May at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s Education and Library Complex, located at 1800 Lakeside Avenue. Free parking available. Registration is required.
May 12 | 5:30 p.m.
What You Should Know About Your Spine with Dr. Michael J. DePalma, director of the VCU Spine Center
May 18 | 5:30 p.m.
A Primer on Incontinence and Pelvic Prolapse in Women with Dr. Edward Gill, from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
May 26 | 5:30 p.m.
Good to the Bone: Advances in Osteoporosis Prevention and Treatment with Drs. Robert Downs Jr. and Diane Biskobing, from the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism
Call (804) 828-0123 to reserve your spot today.
vcuhealth.org
MAY 6, 2010 || 3
wanted to pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot. However, Amber’s focus has shifted to pursuing a degree in aerospace and aeronautical engineering at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. At Monacan, Ambers currently maintains a 4.65 GPA, and is a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, Kick-Off Mentor Council, and the Monacan High School Golf Team. In his spare time, when he’s not flying an airplane or out with his dad on the motorcycles, he enjoys a good movie with friends as well as making a bowl of taco macaroni. Reflecting on his high school experience and whether or not he missed out on anything while pursing his private pilot license, Ambers said, “I guess I put whatever work was required into everything that I wanted to do so that I could do it.” Ambers is the recipient of the 2010 Pamplin Leader Award at Monacan High School, a $1,000 tuition scholarship.
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Coming out of the darkness at dinner There was a 30-second trial of the darkness that enveloped those in attendance at the Foundation for Fighting Blindness’ inaugural Richmond Dining in the Dark event held last Thursday. After the quick splash of darkness and warnings of what to expect for the next 30 minutes – as well as additional thanks to Chesterfield county’s fire marshal for approving the night’s event – all the cell phones and electronics were turned off and the doors were sealed with heavy black drapes. The fund-raiser, honoring Midlothian resident and ophthalmologist Dr. Byron Ladd and community leaders Diane and Paul Manning for their contributions to research, was chaired by Mechanicsville resident Megan Mudd. The honorees and dinner chair, each of them gracious and dynamic individuals, had their spotlight stolen just a little bit by the servers who presented the main course that evening. Event assistants put on their night-vision goggles. The diners took a quick note of where the wine glasses, tea, water, and the silver wear was placed in front of them on the table and the countdown began-- 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 – to total darkness. The server for my table, Tawanda Davis of Roanoke, Va., was a wonderful hostess. Davis began losing her sight at age 8. She confidently informed us that she would place her hand on our right shoulder, then down the outside of our arm and for us to turn the palm of our hand up so she could hand us our dinner plate. We still did not know what the entrée was being served. Each of us at the table passed the bread basket around as well as the butter plate with minor success. I attempted to pour a glass of red wine, but gave up after I realized I didn’t have a clue to the depth of the glass and felt intimidated by any red wine stain. The conversation among the tables in the room seemed extremely loud. Every now and then a sudden flash of light would escape from a cell phone screen, followed by several “Boo”s and calls to “Turn it off.” Once Davis handed me my meal, I asked the others at the table for a few pointers. We still had no idea what was being served. Some suggested we use our fingers because no one was watching. But it struck me that a person who is visually-impaired would not have the luxury of not worrying about social norms. What would you think if you saw someone holding and gnawing on a slice of tenderloin? I picked up the knife and fork and gingerly used one finger to figure out where things were on the plate. I tried to cut into the meat, but I couldn’t figure out if I was pushing it off the plate. I thought I stabbed a small potato with my fork only to bring the fork up to my mouth empty. I found asparagus and thought I’d finally have success only to eat the wrong end of the stalk. And when I took a bite of the roll I had buttered in the dark, I realized I had spread way too much butter on the bread. I was starting to get frustrated. Davis came back to ask how things were going with our meal. That’s when I asked her about the challenges she faces on a daily basis. For her, fear is a huge component. It’s not always easy, but she finally realized that being isolated is difficult and she likes to eat at restaurants too. One hint she gave was to use the 6 p.m. method, where you start at the bottom of the plate and push your food toward the center. That way, she explained, the food doesn’t end up on the table. The mother of three boys also added that the best way to pour any beverage is to keep the glass straight and use a finger tip hooked over the rim to judge the amount. I tried to eat again using her hints and finally cut a sliver of beef tenderloin and successfully ate it. By then, my eyes searched for some sort of light source and began to ache at the strain. The conversational noise was beginning to become a constant hum and the total darkness had disoriented all the senses. Suddenly, a light beamed from the corner of the dining room. Remaining on my plate were two thin slices of beef tenderloin, carrots with the green sprouts, asparagus, potatoes, and a single blackberry that I had avoided. My fellow diners had cleared their plates and set their well-used napkins aside. Although the event had ended, the lasting impression of those 30 minutes of dining in the dark would remain with me for a long time. Learn more in our audio story about the research and the local chapter of the Foundation of Fighting Blindness online at www.midlothianexchange.com.
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THE WAY I SEE IT: WILLIAM HOBBS Interviewed by LaTika Lee
Virginia State University (VSU) professor William Hobbs has released his latest novel, called “Worthy”. In 2005, he joined the VSU faculty, where he teaches courses on composition, African American literature, creative writing, and poetry. I sat down with the author to ask some questions about his new book. This is your third book. What was your purpose in writing it? Understanding the meaning of family and education in the black community, why families are coming undone in so many neighborhoods, why many don’t trust education and some cling blindly to it as though it alone answers for their spirituality and decency as a human being. It also challenges pretenses of lower class living equaling black culture. Would you please give me a synopsis of Worthy? It is a work of urban fiction, set in the mid-1990’s, that follows its protagonist, Ayanna Holliver. Ayanna, who is a first generation college graduate, wrestles with secrets, betrayal, and the quest for unconditional love. She has come back to her rough East Atlanta hometown after the disappearance of her drug-dealing brother. She vows to make a difference as a third-grade teacher in the deteriorating neighborhood's sub-standard elementary school. The book is set in Atlanta because… I went to high school there. Plus it has some of the most bourgeois black folks I’ve ever seen living only miles from folks who pick bugs out of their cereal because things are so rough for them. Ayanna is a fictional character, do you know someone like her? Oh yes. There are glimpses of her in my classroom every semester. Girls who hate going back home because all their friends that didn’t do anything with their lives are there waiting to bring them down into some foolishness in order to make themselves feel better. You’re a male author, how daunting was it to write from a woman’s perspective? It was a huge challenge, the biggest challenge in writing for me. It showed me that the original voice I hear for a character has no gender, age or race. All I can do is continue listening in order to find out who they are and what they’re after. What will people learn by reading the book?
DIALOGUE from P1 becoming more and more interconnected. As we struggle to live in an increasingly pluralistic region, we are bound to listen to one another more attentively. In fact, we should mobilize our resources to address the spiritual crisis and social problems of our day and age. In any interfaith engagement, the balance between practical issues and theological dialogue is not easy. Our dialogue, however, functions in a “beyond-the-talk” kind of attitude in the hope that these encounters will produce concrete results on the ground. Such dialogue has unveiled a joint community service project with the International Hospital for Children. The three faith communities are seeking to M
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raise funds ($5,000) to sponsor a critically ill child from South America and bring that child to the one of the local hospitals for treatment. But much more work remains to be done in order to bring to life the message of love of God and love of the neighbor. Join us for the next two sessions and know your neighbors! The second session will be held on May 6 at Bon Air United Methodist Church, located at 1645 Buford Rd., Richmond and the third session will be held on May 13 at OR AMI, located at 9400 Huguenot Rd., Richmond. Both sessions begin at 7 p.m. Dr. Damaj is the President of the Virginia Muslim Coalition for Public Affairs.
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That they must forgive themselves of past mistakes, that moving on from them does not mean they have forgotten the past but that it does not in any way have complete ownership of who they are. That they must claim their own identity and path in life in the face of all the adversity (i.e. the crap on TV, out of so-called friends’ and family members’ mouths). Your bio says that you’ve delved into graphics. Is this a graphic novel? No, but I’m told that my graphic background lends itself to the details I use for scenes. A lot people say “Worthy” flows like a movie and is surprisingly visual. What’s next? Adaptation to movie? Oh yes, I’ve ordered a book my friend (and fellow novelist) Booker T. Mattison (Unsigned Hype) insisted I
This book is also available as an e-book. Please explain the use of that technology and its impact on contemporary readers? That is available in order for me to stay in front of the Kindle movement. I’ve just put a “Kindle app” on my Blackberry, so you can now read “Worthy” on your phone. It’s all about providing convenience for the reader. Well, it sounds like you’re going to have a busy summer “break”. Yes, I mentor underprivileged youth in Petersburg to show them there’s more than their (neighborhood) block and I’ll also be teaching youth at community organizations, churches and schools about the importance of creative expression.
Hobbs will be discussing “Worthy” at 2 p.m. on May 22 at the 6th Annual "Life Through Literature" Festival which will be held at Poplar Lawn Park in Petersburg. For more information, contact Kitty Hatcher at (804) 733-2387 ext. 22.
In the "Festival showcases student talent" article of the 4.29.10 edition, eighth-grader Kate Birnbaum's name was misspelled. The student was featured with "seafood platter" made acrylic on Model Majic. We regret the error.
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Joy Monopoli Elizabeth Farina Sara Page Pam Sanders Sara Carter Sara Snyder Cindy Grant Michelle Wall
use in order to do the screenplay. That is a project for this summer.
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Three high school teams to run in Richmond Race for the Cure in a new part of the race – the high school challenge. If you walked through the halls of James “The high school challenge is an effort River High School with Carrie Roarty, a to get more high school students and teams health and physical education teacher and involved,� Roarty said. “High school students coach, you’d get the feeling that she’s pretty are creative, they have great fundraising popular. Students stop to wish her well, ideas, and it’s a cool way to represent your colleagues wave and staff check in to say, school in the community.� “Have a great weekend.� By all accounts, she Now, the Roarty’s Racing Rapids’ team is confident and has a sunny disposition, goal is $7,000. exuding with energy. But, two years ago, her This is the second year that organizers future wasn’t so bright. She was in for the of the Komen Richmond Race for the Cure, fight of her life. which attracts many first-time and recreWhen looking at Roarty’s outward apational runners, invited area high schools pearance, you would never know that she has to be a part of the event. Manchester and been facing Stage Two breast cancer. Monacan High schools will also have a team “I’m a health teacher, so when I was this year. diagnosed I felt like this was a ‘teachable’ mo“When they sent out a packet inviting ment,� Roarty confided. “I felt like I needed high schools to compete against one another, to show my students what cancer looked like and the most important thing to me was that The Clover Hill and I could show them that I was sick, that I was tired, that I was bald, but I was not going to Lee-Davis girls’ soccer show them that cancer was going to beat me.� Diagnosed at age 34, Roarty found a lump teams prepare for the above her chest. She had no family history of third annual Kick for the breast cancer. “When I told my parents and all of the Cure game. See page 7 older people in my life, they assumed that when you said cancer, they thought it was a I decided to see if our Manchester kids would death sentence – that I was going to die,� she like to participate as well,� said Roger Cassaid. “But, it was refreshing being around sem, Activities Director at Manchester High these guys [at school] because they’re from a School. “We’ve signed up 30 teachers, faculty, generation where cancer doesn’t mean death. parents, and students, so far.� It was very important for me to share what A student designed a pink ribbon that I was going through with my students. If I reads “It takes the heart of a Lancer to beat hadn’t there would be no race team.� breast cancer!� It is the teams’ theme. They Named the Roarty Racing Rapids in decorated a display in the school’s main comhonor of Carrie, the first JRHS team in the mon area with the ribbons, to show progress Richmond Susan G. Komen Race for the and encourage team participation. They also Cure was organized by former alumna Sarah observed “Think Pink Week.� Mehfoud (’08). She was a student in the “I’ve run the race in years past. Last year, Leadership Specialty center. Roarty had been specifically, I ran for a dear friend and colgoing through radiation and had one chemo- league here at Monacan who fought breast therapy treatment left. It was at a time when cancer,� said Anne Rieser, Fine and Performshe was at her sickest. ing Arts Department Chair and Varsity Girls “In that process, you get to a point of say- Soccer Coach at Monacan High School. ing, ‘How much more of this can I take?’ and This is the first year that Monacan will I didn’t realize the magnitude of what was take part as a group in the Race for the Cure. going on,� Roarty said. Members of the National Honor Society and That first year was huge. Team members National Art Honor Society helped to spread started Facebook groups, sent text messages, the word about signing up to participate in and spread the word to their classmates, the race. “We’re small in numbers, but it is friends and alumni. They designed T-shirts my hope that each year we will continue to in the school colors that were used as a team grow and more students and teachers will fundraiser. The James River team won an sign up,� Rieser said. award for being the most spirited and last The 13th Annual Richmond Race for the year for the largest high school team. Back Cure will take place on Saturday, May 8, at then, there weren’t many other high school Brown’s Island in downtown Richmond. teams in the race/walk, but Mehfoud worked To learn more about the local affiliate, link with the Richmond affiliate and met with online at midlothianexchange.com other high school participants to participate
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Students used GPS units to mark the location of each of the bird platforms used in the study so that they could be located on GoogleEarth.
A partnership of environmental study Several students in grade 6 - 8 at Robious Middle School are collaborating with graduate students and professors in the Center for Environmental Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University on a research project to study the presence of West Nile Virus in suburban bird populations, such as robins. For several weekends, these students have met to construct and distribute nesting platforms and cavity nest boxes in the woods around Robious Middle School. After nests are established, mosquitoes will be collected and tested for the presence of the West Nile Virus. - courtesy of Stephanie Estes, Robious Middle School
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E-mail your event to editor@midlothianexchange.com. Subject line: EVENT Tickets ($15 adults/$7 children) are available for purchase at the gate or in advance at the HCA Central Atlantic Supply Chain. Call (804) 934-1699 or visit teamhca.hcasupply.com for more details.
SATURDAY, MAY 8 The Richmond Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure will host the 13th Annual Race for the Cure on Brown’s Island in Downtown Richmond. The race features various length options to accommodate different audiences, from the 5K walk/run to the 1K Fun Walk and the Kids for the Cure a ½ mile run so that children and adults of all ages can have a part in making a difference. www.komenrichmond.org The HCA Central Atlantic Supply Chain is hosting “An Evening for MS”, a concert event to raise money for the Central Virginia Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The event starts at 2 p.m. with the salsa band Conjunto Sason followed by Hal miles from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., Docs of Rock from 6 to 8 p.m. and Smooth Sensations will wrap up the show playing from 8:30 to 11 p.m. Food and adult beverages will be available for purchase. The concert will be held under the canopy at 200 Wadsworth Dr., Richmond, so bring your lawn chair.
Celebrate Children’s Book Week with poet and author Nikki Giovanni. Nikki will discuss her book, "Hip-
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The New Virginians, www.the newva.org, (a club for women new to the Richmond area in the last two years) will have its monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at The Dominion Country Club (600 Dominion Club Drive, Glen Allen, VA 23059-5478). Our luncheon features a guest speaker from the Virginian Holocaust Museum. The cost for the luncheon is $25. Reservations for the luncheon are requested by noon on May 5. Please contact Kathy McEntee: (804)784-9956.
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"A New Season" Original Oil Paintings of Southern Gardens & Landscapes by artist Sue Beeren opening reception held from 6-9 p.m. at Bella Arte Gallery, located at 3734 Winterfield Rd., Midlothian. The show will run from May 6 – June
The Clover Hill High School Girls’ Soccer Team presents the 3rd Annual Kicking for the Cure at Clover Hill High School (vs. Lee Davis) JV game starts at 5:30pm and Varsity at 7 pm $5 Admission. Proceeds from the night will benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation. A celebration of life will be held during halftime to recognize survivors of breast cancer and anyone who has been personally touched by breast cancer. Ribbons of remembrance will also be available at the gate. If you cannot attend but would like to make a donation, please contact Lori Papa or Lisa Bradshaw at Lori_Papa@ccpsnet.net or Lisa_Bradshaw@ccpsnet.net.
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St. Joseph’s Villa’s 16th Annual Hoedown will be held from 7-11 p.m. at the Villa campus, located at 8000 Brook Rd., Richmond. It is a fun party that benefits the Flagler Home, the Villa’s transitional housing program for homeless women and their children. As in past years, the Hoedown will feature the Lonesome River Band, one of the finest bluegrass bands operating today. Food will be provided by David Napier and Whitehouse Catering, and there will be an open bar. The event is sponsored in part by SunTrust and Page Auto. Tickets are $75 per
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International and Independent Film Series presents “Mine” at Midlothian Library, located at 521 Coalfield Rd., Midlothian from 7-9 p.m. The library collection of films from around the world includes both feature-length narrative films and documentaries, as well as short films, all of which have been featured in the world’s top film festivals, such as Cannes, Berlin, Sundance and Tribeca. “Mine” is a documentary filmed in New Orleans after hurricane Katrina that deals with the heartbreak of the pets that were left behind. Follow the story of five families as they attempt to find and reclaim their lost furry friends. These films have not been rated and are for adults aged 18 and over. No registration is required. Please call (804) 768-7941 for more information.
Hop Speaks to Children" and how the availability of books to all people has led us to a hip-hop generation that uses music, poems, newspapers and DVD's to share their dreams from 7 – 8 p.m. at Central Library, located at 9501 Lori Road, Chesterfield. Registration is required and begins on April 28. Please register online at library. chesterfield.gov or by calling (804) 748-1603.
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Kicking for a cure Clover Hill, Lee-Davis team up for third annual event BY SARA PAGE spage@midlothianexchange.com
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nstead of their customary green and gold jerseys the Clover Hill girls’ JV and varsity soccer teams will be in pink when they take the field on May 11. The teams are hosting the third annual Kickin’ for the Cure game. All money raised through merchandise and ticket sales will go to the American Cancer Society to help fund research into finding a cure for breast cancer. “I feel like, as a whole, we’re kind of inspired because we’re not just playing to play on that day. We’re playing for something that’s bigger than us, and we’re playing for the people that are there and the people that have been affected by breast cancer,” Clover Hill co-captain Maliha Ataullah said. “It’s easy to get caught up in a lot of little things in school or just in life. It’s a humbling game to remember the people that have been affected by breast cancer because we’re all girls who are at risk,” co-captain Kristen Herceg added. The teams have raised close to $2,000 in each of the past two years, and the celebration starts way before the teams take the field. The Freshman Class and Freshman Advisory Council – sponsors of the event – kick things off with sales of pink T-shirts. On the day of the
Dr. Vic's Sports Notes
games, Clover Hill students are encouraged to wear pink to school. “We get a picture of the team, and everyone that wore pink that day [in the gym],” Herceg said. “We got a cool picture of the whole team in the shape of a ribbon.” At the game, a table stands near the front gate holding information about breast cancer, prevention and detection methods, and donations. Fans are invited to create the pink links that grace the fence around the field. Even the field is decorated in pink with ribbons at all four corners and in the center. “Last year all the refs were women and wore dark pink jerseys,” Ataullah added. At half time a Clover Hill High School community member reads a tribute for those affected by breast cancer, and everyone in the stands who has been touched by the disease is invited onto the field to release pink balloons into the night sky. For the second year in a row, the opponent will be the same as well. The Lee-Davis squads began their involvement in the event last year and are looking to make their part even bigger this year. The Lady Confederates will sport special navy blue jerseys with pink ribbons on the front and pink numbers on the back. In addition to personal donations, the team will make a group contribution through
FILE PHOTO BY KENNY MOORE
Pink and white balloons are released into the night sky by everyone in the audience who'd been touched by breast cancer at last year's Kicking for the Cure girls' soccer game between Clover Hill and Lee-Daivs. The teams will play for charity again on May 11 beginning with the junior varsity game at 5:30 p.m.
the purchase of pink shoelaces, which they will wear during the game. “My mom is a breast cancer survivor and we’ve got some of the players with parents, grandparents that are cancer survivors, so it’s a great way for them to get involved,” Lee-Davis head coach Brad Dalton said. “We look forward to participating in it because, as a high school coach, it’s not
just about the game or about winning. We’re hoping they see the bigger picture, and this is a great cause.” The teams are hoping to find more ways for other teams to become involved with the event, whether it comes through holding events of their own or supporting the cause through attendance at the game, and there has been quite a lot of interest.
“We would love to have other high school teams come to this,” Clover Hill head coach Sean Martin said. “Manchester girls’ team, their coach called me before the season and said they would like to be a part of this … It’s not necessarily Clover Hill or Lee-Davis – it’s for breast cancer, so it would be re-
ally nice if [other teams] came – if they didn’t have games that night – to be a part of it.” The evening officially kicks off at 5:30 with the JV game and is followed at 7 by the varsity game. Entry is $5.
Three other area schools are getting in on the act by teaming up for this year's Richmond Race for the Cure. Story on page 3.
Hamlin promotes physical fitness BY SARA PAGE spage@midlothianexchange.com
Manchester High School graduate Denny Hamlin scoots into one event and, just as quickly, is whisked off to his next appearance when he’s in town for the spring and fall races at Richmond International Raceway. Scooting is not as easy these days for the driver of Question: We hear a lot about ACL injuries. I read an the No. 11 FedEx car as he recovers from surgery to article recently that mentioned a PCL injury. How do repair an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered the two differ in symptoms, treatment and recovery time? earlier this year. But staying in shape is still important Answer: Ligaments are for drivers, and that was the strong, cord-like tissues that connect one bone to another message Hamlin delivered in front of a 500-plus strong and function to stabilize the crowd huddled in turn 4 on joint. The knee has four the Richmond short track primary ligaments. The anSaturday. terior and posterior cruciate The crowd had just ligaments (ACL and PCL) are completed the first Cocalocated Cola Family Track Walk at in the Richmond International center of Raceway. the knee “It has been frustrating,” joint. Hamlin said of the recovery Both are process. “I can’t get into the attached gym, and they tell me I’m between supposed to be sitting on the the couch, so I’m trying not femur to splurge on junk food and (thigh Dr. Vic Goradia just stay healthy … Not being bone) and tibia (leg bone). The ACL attaches on top of the tibia in front of the PCL. The ACL thus prevents the tibia from SARA PAGE sliding forward while the PCL BY spage@midlothianexchange.com prevents it from sliding back. The crowd and the sideline’s There are also two ligaments on the sides called the medial seemed a little confused in last Thursday’s boys’ varsity lacrosse and lateral collateral ligaments (MCL and LCL). These game between James River and Trinity. Just as James River provide stability with side to took possession on the opening side stress to the knee joint. The reason you hear a lot faceoff in overtime, they called a about ACL injuries is because timeout. But there was a method behind the call. it is the most common knee “Coach told the offense, ‘Now ligament tear that requires it’s your turn to do your job.’ It surgery. The MCL is actually took us a try or two but we did sprained more often than the it eventually, ” Rives Martin said ACL however it usually heals after the game. with use of a brace and rest. Martin scored the winning A higher amount of trauma goal with 1:50 left in the fouris needed for injury to the minute, sudden-death overtime. LCL and PCL and that is why they are less common. While Jesse Wells made a hard hit on a Trinity defenseman deep in LCL injuries usually require surgery, many PCL tears can Trinity territory to keep the team from clearing the ball. Martin be treated without surgery. PCL tears can occur with received a pass on the left side, severe hyperextension of the crossed in front of the goal and put a hard, one-hopper into the knee, a blow to the front of the tibia or other high veloc- back of the net for a 10-9 win. The Rapids had a chance to ity trauma such as car acciwin late in the fourth quarter. dents. In many cases another With the game tied at nine ligament in addition to the all, Trinity goalie Bill Patton PCL will tear simultaneously. If this occurs the patient will received a 30-second penalty for
PCL injury the less-common kin to ACL
PHOTO BY KENNY MOORE
Fans line up for a 3/4-mile walk around the track at Richmond International Raceway.
able to exercise and get into the gym has definitely been a downside.” Hamlin said he is trying to get in as much cardiovascular
exercise as he can and is focusing on nutrition. He said part of the nutrition regimen is drinking a lot of fluids and retaining those fluids
through carbohydrate intake, of a race so drinking a lot is which he begins two to three critical,” Hamlin said. days before each race. To the crowd his message “I’ve had trouble with was similar – stay in shape getting dehydrated at the end NASCAR P8
Martin goal lifts Rapids in OT
PCL P9
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PHOTO BY E-YAGE-RAMIL
From left, Andrew Schultz, Jordan Blair, and Hagen Neal sprint for a ground ball. The Rapids and Titans battled into overtime in last Thursday's boys' varsity lacrosse game.
EXERCISE
8 || MAY 6, 2010
SPORTS || FITNESS
Falk wins Hamlin charity race
MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
NASCAR AROUND TOWN
BY JIM MCCONNELL special correspondent
Denny Hamlin has the household name status, a multimillion-dollar contract with Joe Gibbs Racing and 10 career victories on NASCAR’s top touring series. C.E. Falk III is a 22-yearold Norfolk native who is two weeks shy of graduating from Charlotte. Falk has racing in his blood, though, and the son of former Busch Series driver Eddie Falk wasn’t about to back down when he got a rare opportunity to trade sheet metal with Hamlin Thursday night at Southside Speedway. Falk qualified third behind local favorite Hamlin and two-time NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Tony Stewart for the third annual Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown, a 250lap Late Model race to benefit the former Chesterfield resident’s charitable foundation. Falk, the 2009 Late Model champion at Hampton’s Langley Speedway, backed up his strong qualifying run by leading a few laps and running in the top three all night on Hamlin’s home track. And after a late caution gave him new life, Falk took advantage of Hamlin’s final-lap bobble and claimed the biggest victory of his young life in a thrilling greenwhite-checkered finish. Stewart was second, followed by Eddie Johnson. Hamlin settled for a disappointing fourth-place finish after dominating the race. The excitement started about an hour before the main event. Twelve drivers took to the track for a 30-lap heat race, knowing they needed to earn one of the top six finishing positions to earn a spot alongside the NASCAR superstars. The action was predictably furious, and while the fans waited
NASCAR from P7 and eat well. In addition to an appearance by Hamlin, the crowd was treated to remarks from Joe Gibbs, Jeff Burton and Elliot Sadler, who waved the green flag to signal the start of the walk. Fans got to stay out on the track for post-
PHOTO BY SARA PAGE
PHOTO BY KENNY MOORE
Denny Hamlin signed autographs for young fans before the Short Track Showdown at Southside Speedway last Thursday. All proceeds went to the Denny Hamlin Foundation and its work with children's charities.
15 laps for the first wreck, they certainly got their money’s worth; five cars piled up between Turns 1 and 2, and Lin O’Neil’s No. 1 ended up with two wheels on the asphalt and the other two resting on the left side of Terry Carroll’s No. 90. Pole-sitter Marc Davis held off a spirited challenge by local favorite Bugs Hairfield for the win. Despite running the final half of the race with no sheet metal on the left side of his car, Carroll somehow managed to grab the sixth and final transfer spot into the 30-car field. Things got interesting early in the big race. Bobby Labonte was the first casualty, sustaining frontend damage to his No. 44 car on Lap 11 before heading to the pits with sparks shooting from the right side. Six laps later, Kevin Harvick brought out the first caution with a spin in Turn 2. On the ensuing restart, both defending champion Kyle Busch and Falk zipped past Hamlin and dropped the event’s
host to third. Clearly not intimidated by racing with some of NASCAR’s marquee drivers, Falk managed to lead his first lap when he got the nose of his car ahead of Busch’s No. 51 coming to the start-finish line on Lap 41. Busch responded with a less-than-subtle bump as he found himself in a three-wide scramble with Falk and Hamlin between Turns 3 and 4. Falk and Busch continued to beat and bang on each other during the next caution period, then Falk asserted himself when the racing resumed. But just when Falk appeared ready to build a comfortable lead, Southside regular Chris Hopkins brought the event to a screeching halt with a spectacular wreck on Lap 62. After contact with Darrell Wallace, Hopkins lost control of his car heading into Turn 3 and crashed hard into the outside wall before the car flipped onto its roof and slid another 30 feet down the track.
The red flag flew immediately as four wreckers and a fire truck scrambled to Hopkins’ car. He didn’t stay there long, though. After climbing out of the cockpit and waving to the fans, he walked briskly down the back stretch to personally express his displeasure to Wallace. After a 20-minute delay, Stewart led a line of cars that passed a fading Busch and had a chance to challenge Falk for the lead. Then it was Hamlin’s turn. He finally reclaimed the lead on Lap 106, held on through a pair of restarts and kept it until the field was frozen for pit stops with 100 laps remaining. Hamlin appeared to have victory well within his reach as the final laps ticked off, but a Wallace spin on Lap 247 brought out the final caution and set up a late shootout between Hamlin and Falk. It was all the opportunity Falk needed.
walk entertainment provided by local band Crush. “It’s really cool that the fans get to be out here on the track before the race tonight. That’s what really separates our sport from other sports. Fans don’t get to walk on the field before the Super Bowl or the court before an NBA
game,” Burton said. “It’s also nice that they’re able to do an event like [the track walk]. It’s better than sitting in the parking lot and tailgating all day. They get to be on the track getting some exercise.” After fans cleared the track, drivers got their turn in the Crown Royal Presents the Heath Calhoun 400, and Hamlin turned a dismal start to the weekend into a respectable finish. Hamlin, who had shown frustration with his car all weekend, started in the 30th position. In qualifying on Friday, Hamlin turned a 125.116 mile per hour lap, two off pole sitter Kyle Busch. The car remained two mph off the leaders early
even as Busch’s lead grew. But as the tires heated up and the track cooled down, Hamlin found his sweet spot. He climbed through the ranks into the 16th spot by lap 100 and surpassed his teammate as the fastest car on the track for several laps in a row. Hamlin broke the top 10 by halfway through and climbed as far as sixth, but it was Busch who had the stars on his side. He claimed his second consecutive birthday weekend race after leading the first 188 laps. Busch led a total of 226 laps. PHOTO BY KENNY MOORE Hamlin finished a respectable 11th. Fireworks flew behind the brand new scoring
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A Year After Market Low, How Should You Invest? It’s been about a year since stock prices hit their low point during the long bear market. Since then, of course, we’ve seen a big rally, but some of the decisions you made when the market was at its lowest point may still be affecting your portfolio’s performance and prospects. So now that we’ve reached the one-year anniversary of the market bottom, it’s a good time to see where you are today and how you can prepare for tomorrow. In looking back at the market depths of a year ago, it’s important to note that we didn’t get there overnight. In fact, stock indices had fallen about 50 percent since hitting their all-time high in October 2007, which means that investors had gone through a 16-month downturn. Consequently, it’s not surprising that many people, tired of seeing gloomy investment statements month after month, decided to “play it safe” for a while by putting large sums into fixed-rate vehicles such as Certificates of Deposit (CDs). And a lot of those CDs had oneyear maturities, which means they’re now coming up for renewal. When you bought your CDs a year ago, you probably did so for their ability to preserve your principal, but in the process, you made some trade-offs. First, you accepted a relatively meager income stream, because short-term interest rates, like those paid on your CDs, were low. And second, you relinquished the growth potential you might have gotten from other investments, such as stocks. So now that we’re a year removed from the bottom of a bear market, can you use the money from your maturing CDs to help you make progress toward your financial goals? Actually, now that you may have these maturing CDs coming due, it’s a very good time to review your overall investment strategy, possibly with the help of a professional financial advisor. Take a close look at your portfolio. Is it well suited for your individual risk tolerance, time horizon and long-term objectives, or do you need to make some changes? Is it too aggressive for your needs, or too conservative? Is it properly diversified among investments suitable for your particular situation? While diversification, by itself, cannot guarantee profits or protect against loss, it can help reduce the effects of volatility and give you more chances for success. Keep in mind that while CDs are FDIC insured, other investments carry certain risks that you should understand before investing. Of course, if you have investments held in a brokerage account, it’s likely not your only portfolio – you may well be investing through your 401 (k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. If so, keep in mind that you probably don’t want your investments to duplicate those inside your 401 (k) account. Instead, look at your entire investment picture “holistically” and seek to diversify through all your accounts. Once you’ve reviewed your portfolio and identified any possible gaps, you can then consider where the money from your maturing CDs can be used most effectively. You probably won’t see any festivities marking the one-year anniversary of the market low. But you can celebrate in your own way – by embracing available investment opportunities.
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Denny Hamlin dropped in for a ribbon cutting at Children's Hospital's brand new Bon Air Therapy Center. The Denny Hamlin Foundation made a substantial contribution to the center during it's construction, and Hamlin brought a second surprise gift of $10,000 with him to the opening. From left are Children's Hospital President and CEO Leslie Wyatt, Senator John Watkins, and Hamlin.
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PHOTO BY SARA PAGE
Shannon Selfe cut the ribbon on the brand new Bon Air Therapy Center which is part of Children's Hospital. The hospital sees over 200 patients per day and offers occupational, physical, speech and psychologial therapy services.
tower at Richmond International Raceway before the start of the Sprint Cup race.
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interference behind the goal on a ball headed out of bounds. The (send your sports news to Titans were allowed a minute to sports@midlothianexchange.com) change goalies and get back-up keeper Ben Johnson warmed up. Athletic Association plan Chalkley ES hosts 5K Courtesy of Patricia Bishop Facing a man-down situation to present the family with with 2:54 remaining in the game, donations to help with Chalkley Elementary the Titans killed the penalty and medical expenses. Other School will host a school/ allowed James River to get only donations will be accepted community 5K run/walk one shot off. on site. on Saturday, May 15 at 10 “We did have a backup so a.m. A 1/4 –mile run for luckily it wasn’t a mad scramble Bowl-A-Thon to benpreschool through first to point out, ‘OK, you’re going grade begins at 10:10. Reg- efit athletic association to be goalie.’ We had a plan, and istration forms are available Courtesy of Denise Harmon we were able to keep them from The A.M. Davis Athletic at the Chalkley Elementary scoring. That was good,� Trinity Association is hosting a School website. The first head coach Chris McQueeney Bowl-A-Thon at Bowl 250 registrants receive a said. T-shirt. For more informa- America on Midlothian James River got on the board Turnpike on Saturday, May tion contact Lauren Latfirst just 31 seconds into the timer at (804) 647-1300 or 15, beginning at 4 p.m. match when Nick Lingon scored Individual tickets are Lauren_lattimer@ccpsnet. PHOTO BY E-YAGE RAMIL on a hard bouncer into the net. $15, which includes three net. Mitchell MacDonald, right, sneaks behind the collision to pick up a loose ball. The teams matched point games of bowling and for point, and Trinity took its shoes. Advanced tickets Players wanted for first lead of the game just before are required for entry and AAU basketball team Courtesy of Steve Celuck halftime when Andrew Schultz all proceeds benefit the won the face off. He got off a pass AMDAA. The Richmond Elite to Ben Johnson, who sent the ball For tickets or more inboys’ 16U AAU basketball one-hopping into the net. formation e-mail waysandteam is searching for adThe Titans led by as much means@davisathletics.com. ditional players. Visit the as two in the third quarter, and team’s website for more despite the loss were happy with information RichmondEl- Poker run to benefit the close game. Special Olympics ite.com. Courtesy of Chesterfield County “Our focus today was to rebound off of a loss earlier The Chesterfi eld County Shock, Weaver join this week (25-3 to Blue Ridge). Sheriff ’s Office and Parks fundraising forces Courtesy of the Richmond Shock We talked to our guys about and Recreation Departcharacter and being able to come ment have teamed up to The Richmond Shock off a tough loss and today, they host the Motorcycle Poker lacrosse club will host a JV rebounded and that was kind Run 2010 on Saturday, May game on Saturday, May 8 at of our overall goal – to see what 3 p.m. at Chalkley Elemen- 22. kind of character the team had The run will depart and tary School in honor of and they showed a lot today,� return to South Richmond Robbie Drescher. McQueeney said. Harley Davidson (10011 A presentation for the Though the game remained Hull Street Rd.). The fee Drescher family by both contentious, the atmosphere on is $10 per hand. Check-in the Richmond Shock and the sideline seemed more like Weaver Athletic Association and registration will begin PHOTO BY E-YAGE-RAMIL the neighborhood teams getting at 9 a.m., and riders will will be followed by a JV together on a Saturday afternoon Trinity's Michael Adams tries to get around a James River defender. lacrosse game featuring the depart between 9 and 10:30 as the teams mingled and players a.m. For more information, Shock and Cosby squads. joked around with each other. contact Lt. Ned Morris at Drescher, a former “It’s like we’re backyard (804) 751-4416 or morplayer in the Shock orgabuddies,� McQueeney said. risn@chesterfield.gov or nization and a student at “Everybody knows everybody Mark Pinney at (804) Tomahawk Creek Middle else on the team so it’s a friendly 748-1992 or pinneym@ School, was left paralyzed rivalry.� chesterfi eld.gov. from the chest down after For James River, the game All funds raised will surgery to repair a hemanwas the start of two back-to-back support Special Olympics gioma late last year. nights of in-town rivalries. The Virginia. Both the Richmond Rapids hosted Midlothian on Shock Club and Weaver Friday night. A score was not available at press time. PCL from P7 Regardless of which liga“We’ve got to focus on staying require surgery and recovery ment is sprained, the most focused in the beginning, getting can take six to 12 months. If important thing is to have a up in the beginning and not havthere is an isolated PCL tear, thorough examination by an ing to dig ourselves out of a hole,� experienced knee specialist as many patients will be able Rives said. “It’s really just, we have to recover full function with PCL injuries are frequently the players, but we have to learn missed. Even if surgery is rest, bracing, and therapy to work together and when we without surgery. Depending needed for an ACL or PCL get on a roll, we just start doing tear, advances in the past few on the severity, it can take really well.� years allows more anatomisix weeks to three or four Josh Wells saved 21 shots for cally correct repair with all months to resume sports PHOTO BY E-YAGE RAMIL James River while Patton saved activities when isolated PCL arthroscopic techniques that James River's Will Kennedy, left, is flanked by Trinity's Kyle Marron. 14 for the Titans. avoid incisions. sprains are treated nonVic Goradia, MD operatively. If the patient Knee, Shoulder, and Sports experiences pain and instability after he or she resumes Medicine Specialist Go Orthopedics activities, surgery can still be GoOrtho.net performed.
Advertise in Midlothian Exchange! Call Sara Snyder at (804) 908-6086 for details.
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Girls Scout Troop delivers collected cookies for troops to Norfolk Naval Base Girl Scout cookies sent to the USS Nassau via Helicopter Squadron 28 on April 9 Again this year, Senior Girl Scout Troop 268 asked cookie customers in Midlothian if they would like to send a box of cookies to the USS Nassau. For the fifth year, the community responded, donating 873 boxes, which brings the total donation to date of over 3,400 boxes. The following Girl Scout troops collected donated cookies and added them to the care package: Cadet Troop 374, Brownie Troop 56 (from Powhatan County), Cadet Troop 3041, Cadet Troop 3176 and Cadet Troop 3343. Donations were also received from Eagle Construction Company, Richmond Council Navy League and the students and staff at Tomahawk Creek Middle School. Additionally, “Letters from Home”, cards, poems, letters and pictures were collected from November through March by the students at Tomahawk Middle School and Cadet Troop 374,
and were sent with the cookies. Ed Gibbons, Henry Allen and Dave Vachet traveled down and met with the Girl Scouts at Helicopter Squadron 28 at the Norfolk Naval Station on April 8. The Commanding Officer, Commander Todd Gilchrist, U.S.N., welcomed the group and CSC Nellie Jackson, U.S.N., gave a tour of the facility. The cookies, along with some cigars for the crew, were loaded into a container and flown to the ship which is on deployment. Many students have asked for the troops to write back to them. Staff e-mail addresses can be found on the web site should personnel on the USS Nassau be interested in responding to the students. The Girl Scouts hope the troops on board the USS Nassau enjoy the Girl Scout cookies and the “Letters from Home.” - courtesy of Richmond Council Navy League
Swift Creek Middle School SCA serves charities
courtesy of Debbie Potter on behalf of Swift Creek Middle School
Local businessman Victor DiVittorio of Ameriprise Financial approached Swift Creek Middle School Administrative Assistant Todd Romer with an opportunity to partner with SCMS to support local organizations. The father of students in the Robious area, Mr. DeVittorio wanted to support the community where he has his business offices. The school’s SCA responded with a collection to support the Richmond Animal League. Students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades banded together and collected bags and cans of cat and dog food, toys, dog chews, animal bedding, food bowls, and treats. Over 400 items were collected and $40 donated over a week. When the items were delivered to RAL, the organization shared that the items donated would not only go to benefit the RAL and provide much needed support, but they were also working with
the Meals-on-Wheels program, which provides pet food for those they serve. A pizza party was given to the class that collected the most. The teachers were also recognized for their dedication. Mrs. Colleen Lee’s first period class won the pizza party (pictured above). Lee received a $75 card; Mrs. Sandy Drahms, a $50 card, and Mrs. Leona Dooley and Ms. Katie Ligon both received $25 cards. Also, SCA classroom representatives made blankets for Project Linus, a non-profit organization. SCMS Social Studies teacher Mrs. Helen Coalter accepted 18 blankets on behalf of the local organization. Project Linus’ mission is to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.” The SCMS students put the blankets together with love and care while having a great time.
From left to right: Fran Laserson, President, The Moody’s Foundation; MWGS Students: William Steadman Farmer, Cody Tyler Talmadge; Ashish Ashok Makadia; Milton Frederick Tyler IV, Susan Margaret Ballentine, and Kristine Chiodo, Coach and teacher.
Maggie Walker Governor's School nabs third in Moody's Math Challenge Maggie Walker Governor’s School nabbed the third place spot in Moody’s Mega Math Challenge this week, beating over 500 other teams from the 18 states along the east coast. The final event for the contest took place on April 28 in Manhattan, at Moody’s Corporation headquarters. Students and their teacher coach had their travel and accommodations paid for by the Challenge sponsor, The Moody’s Foundation. Their team prize is $10,000. The scholarship prize will be paid directly to the colleges at which each student ultimately enrolls. Full story online at midlothianexchange.com - courtesy of Michelle Montgomery, project director Moody's Mega Math Challenge
Bailey Bridge Middle School collects for Haiti relief Through a variety of fundraisers, Bailey Bridge Middle School collected $5,665 for Haiti relief. Reginald Gordon, CEO of the Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross, accepts the donation from teachers, left to right, Misti Wajciechowski, Linda Moore and Shirley Conley, administrative assistant Jeanean Phelps and principal Mike Gill. - courtesy of Bailey Bridge Middle School
Risk Takers Team at Midlothian Middle School rise to the 'Backpack for kids'challenge
The 6th grade Risk Takers Team at Midlothian Middle School recently accepted a challenge to collect donations for “Backpack for Kids.” This program provides easy to handle, yet healthy food for children in need on the weekends when they are not in school. Coordinated by teacher Manuel Rios, students collected $500 to present to the program. In addition, the student group supported Meals on Wheels recipients by collecting over 400 pounds of pet food. - courtesy of Elizabeth Clayton on behalf of Midlothian Middle School
Cooking for a Cure
Our annual Discover county guides are full of useful information including emergency numbers, phone numbers, government services, area business information, schools, health care, parks and recreation programs, county activities, community events and more!
DISCOV ER POW H ATA N 2009 County Guide Book
Published by Richmond Suburban Newspapers
H A NOV ER
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2009 County Guide Book
2009 County Guide Book
CHESTERFIELD 2009 County Guide Book
Published by Richmond Suburban Newspapers
Published by Richmond Suburban Newspapers
Published by Richmond Suburban Newspapers
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Call today to reserve your ad space! Almost-two-year-old Gabby Kithcart takes a bite of ribs at the first 2010 Cooking for a Cure held at 8768 Huguenot Rd. Bon Air Shell Service Station. The next Bon Air Shell sale is May 22. Powhatan Relay for Life is June 4. Full story online at midlothianexchange.com - courtesy Frances Crutchfield
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Swift Creek Middle School students participate in the Linus Project. Read full story on P10. - courtesy photo
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Yard Sale! Sat, May 8th, 8:00 -1:00. Multi Family, Foxcroft, Houndmaster Road
pets & animals General
Furniture BED - New Mattress Dogs Set in Plastic w/ warr. Full $99, Queen $109, King LAB PUPS - AKC, $189. Delivery/Lay - CHOCOLATE, BORN A-Way. 218-0680 1/28/10, 1M LEFT OUT OF 9 PUPS. MOTHER, FATHER OFA EYE CERT Bedroom Set - real handcarved mahogany. PUPS. EXC. PEDIGREE. 4 post bed, 2 nitestands HIPS AND EYE GUARANTEED. ALL SHOTS/ triple dresser, tri-fold mirror & chest of draw- WORMED. READY TO ers. Perfect cond. Will- GO! $500 804-598-5192 OR CELL 804-357-3197. ing to deliver. Retails for $10,500. Sell $2,950 WWW.BELLAMYSQUALITY LABRADORS.COM 804-398-8424
Now Hiring: companies desperately need employees to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 wkly potential. 1-985-6461700 , Dept. VA-2713 Power Washers/Painters Must have own vehi cle and valid drivers license. Exp. a plus. 804-536-1115. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING WORKS! EMAIL ADS@MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
General Virginia Home for Boys & Girls is seeking Therapeutic Foster Parents. If you have a willing ness to open your home to youth with a variety of needs, by giving them a safe, stable, loving and nurturing environ ment; you might make a great foster parent! We offer hands-on, evidence-based training, and ongoing support. Requirements include: being a responsible caring adult at least 21 years of age; having a valid Virginias drivers license and good driving record; stable income and housing; and the ability to pass a criminal background check. If interested, please forward resumes to: Human Resources, Virginia Home for Boys & Girls, 8716 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23294 Fax: (804) 270-0479 or email amiller@boysandgirlsh ome.org
Health Care
Pharmacy Technician Instructor 2 yrs exp.; degree a plus; must hold Virginia Certification for over one year. PT Hours only. E-mail resume to Director_of_Education @ hotmail.com
real estate residential for rent
transportation
Technology
Technology
Network Installer Position # 73660 Houses Unfurnished Richmond - 2002 Man sion Ave. Clean, freshly painted, new carpet. 3 bdrm, 1 ba. Sect. 8 welcome. $775 mo. 804-334-1691
real estate commercial for rent
Automobiles for Sale AUDI- ’04 A8L Quatro So much luxury for such a great price! Almost new tires, new windshield, 99K mi. Must sell quickly at $16,500 804-379-8618 CHEVROLET - ’06, Co balt, excellent cond. 36K mi., remote start, $6900. 804-639-3694 VW ’01 Jetta - silver, 1.8T, auto, leather, sunroof, CD, exc. cond, loaded, 105K mi, $6600 804-908-1907
OfficeWarehouse Combo SOUTHSIDE -- OFFICE / WAREHOUSE space for lease. Prime location, approx 1 mi W of Hull Street/Courthouse Rd intersection. 2 units, 1680 sq. ft and 3350 sq ft. Has rear entrance loading dock and rollup door 804-276-7916.
PUBLISHED THURSDAYS ONLINE EVERY DAY! www.midlothian exchange.com
Motorcycles YAMAHA- ’01 650V Star Classic, black, windshield, leather saddle bags, like new, 2600 mi., $3600. 804-379-8618
Automobiles Wanted ûFREE TOWINGû $250-$700 Cash Paid for all Junk Cars/Trucks Call CARF 804-247-8640 ûWANTED û Abandoned junk cars Pay $250 & UP Cash No title needed. 804-677-0156 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING WORKS! EMAIL ADS@MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
Position is responsible for performing installation of data network and media infrastructure and the maintenance of the associated components. Qualifications include in-depth working knowledge of Ethernet networks; cabling plants including CAT 5E, fiber, and wireless infrastructure; and associated peripherals and IEEE standards. The demonstrated ability to troubleshoot using digital wire testers and other test equipment; understand video data projectors and associated cabling; work independently with minimum supervision; establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of Department of Technology staff; and work within and follow established guidelines and procedures is required. Position closes May 13, 2010 . Apply via the CCPS web site at www.chesterfield.k12.va.us . On-line applications accepted only. Resumes may be forwarded, in addition to the on-line application, to Human Resources, Chesterfield County Public Schools, P.O. Box 10, Chesterfield, VA 23832-9990.
General
General
HVACR
A local 25 year commercial service company is seeking a technician to service commercial equipment and controls. We offer excellent pay and benefits. Email resume to admassistant@harrismechanical.com
or fax (804) 264-6531.
EOE/M/F/D
To Advertise Email Us At ads@ Midlothian Exchange.com
PUBLISHED THURSDAYS ONLINE EVERY DAY!
Every Week in your Mailbox and Online!
www.Midlothian Exchange.com www.midlothian exchange.com Visit us today!
Visit us Today!
PUBLISHED THURSDAYS ONLINE EVERY DAY! www.midlothian exchange.com
Visit us today!
12 || MAY 6, 2010
MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
VISIT AND
SHOP LOCAL
FOR MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY, MAY 9TH Find every shade of spring for your home and gift giving . . .
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Our handmade unique chocolates are reasonably priced
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Happy Mother’s Day Frame her favorite photo or stop by to find her a special picture (804) 794-6001 14300 Midlothian Tnpk. Midlothian, VA 23113 Tuesday-Saturday 10-5
It’s just scrumptious shopping.
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MIDLOTHIAN VILLAGE SQUARE NEAR CAFE CATURRA AND CAPITAL ALE HOUSE 13823 VILLAGE PLACE DRIVE • MIDLOTHIAN, VA 23114
804.794.0333 • INFO@ALWAYSPOSH.COM
Mother's Day is this Sunday 30% Off on Most Items Additional Specials Throughout the Store Gifts from $20 to $10,000
Happy Mother’s Day from your local businesses.
4804 Commonwealth Centre Parkway Midlothian, VA 23112 next to Steinmart
744-0903 Follow us on Facebook Visit our Website at WWW.SYCAMOREJEWELERS.COM HOURS: Mon.-Wed. & Fri. 10-6 Thurs. 10-7; Sat. 10-5
Don’t Forget Mom! Mother’s Day Sunday, May 9th
Long Stem Roses Dozen Assorted Colors
$
99
9
Private Selection Angus
Premium Blooming Hanging Baskets
Cupcake Pull-AParts Decorated for Mother’s Day
Whole Beef Tenderloin
Angus
(4-6 lb Avg) Pound
10 Inch
24 ct
$
1199
$
1799
Private Selection Angus Beef Tenderloin Steaks $13.99 lb
Previously Frozen Pound
$
899
Hydrangeas 8.5 Inch Pot
$
1099
MOTHER’S DAY IS SUNDAY, MAY 9 TH
150
999
Bakery Fresh 1/4 Sheet Iced Pound Cake Decorated for Mother’s Day
Giant Sea Scallops
$
$
$
1499
Make Mom Smile
OFF
YO UR TOTA L SHOPPING TRIP
with each 3-card purchase PEANUTS ŠUnited Feature Syndicate, Inc.
A card. It’s the biggest little thing you can do.
Be sure to visit our One-Stop Gift Card Shop Subject Sub ub bjec ject to ject to a avai availability. vai ailab lability. labi ility ty. S See ee gi giftt card gif c cards a d ard ds s for for det detail details, ails ail s, te s, terms, ter ms, co ms condi conditions ndi diti d tions tio ns and (if applicable) fees fees. All trademarks are property of their respective owners owners.
Items & prices good in RIchmond Area through May 8, 2010
WED 5
THURS 6
FRI 7
SAT 8
Copyright 2010. Kroger Mid-Atlantic. We reserve the right to limit quantities. None sold to dealers.
Visit our website at www.kroger.com for additional savings.
Everyday Unlimited
up to & Including a face value of
Manufacturers
DOUBLE COUPONS
50
¢
See Store for details