SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY
03.15.12
INSIDE SPORTS
JRHS welcomes Olympic hopeful home
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Moseley man has fiery faith always remember. She had severe burns and we called for MedFlight, and then transn elderly lady who was on home ported her to the landing zone behind the oxygen accidentally pulls her Bank of McKenney on River Road. She was oxygen tubing over a lit candle, having significant trouble breathing. which ignites the tubing, causing When the MedFlight medics arrived, severe burns to the patient’s chest and face. they needed to give her medication that Matoaca Fire Station #8, including firefight- would relax her and cause her to lose er Jason Elmore, was dispatched to the call. consciousness so they could put a breathing “There have been numerous calls in the tube down her trachea to help her breathe. 18 years of my career that would be consid“With the extent of her injuries, and ered life changing,” Elmore said. “But that her past medical history, we knew she [elderly burn victim] will be a call I will would not survive her injuries,” Elmore
BY BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT Special Correspondent
A PHOTO COURTESY OF JASON ELMORE
Pastor Jason Elmore holds a young child at the baptismal font.
Ironworks event brings the past to life BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
said. “Before her medication was administered, I placed my hands on her shoulders and I shared a prayer with her in hopes of comforting her. That is a call I will always remember because it made me realize that I will not always be able to “fix” everybody, but I can do my best to comfort them in a very difficult time.” Elmore began serving the community in his teen years. “Growing up I always wanted to be a FIERY page 3
Special Olympics athletes bring their A-game to the court
F
alling Creek Ironworks was the first iron blast furnace in North America, and, for that reason, it will always have a place in the annals of history. Co-sponsored by the Falling Creek Ironworks Foundation and the Chesterfield County Department of Parks and Recreation, the annual Falling Creek Ironworks Day event that will take place on Saturday, March 17, will observe that fact while educating visitors about the location’s obscure past. From 1619 to 1622, the blast furnace helped to bring heavy industry into the New World. And from 1750 to 1781, Archibald Cary, a key supporter of the American Revolution, had a forge there, although it shut down sometime during before the end of the war. Lyle Browning is an archaeologist who has performed exploratory work for the Falling Creek Ironworks Foundation. On Saturday afternoon, Browning will lead hourly archaeological tours and give talks to groups. Browning is considered an authority on the site’s historical contributions, but he also is skilled in making an explanation of iron production come to life, which makes it easy to IRONWORKS page 3
PHOTOS BY PATRICK DOBBS
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Above: Area 6 Chesterfield Blue Heat’s Michael Marshall snares a rebound against Chesterfield Green Heat’s Deion Gilbert. Right: Chesterfield Blue Heat’s Reginald Williams celebrates his two-pointer. Below: Chesterfield Green Heat’s Chelsea Gaughran leads a fast break with Chesterfield Blue Heat’s Ryan Rieck hustling back.
The annual Falling Creek Ironworks Day educates visitors about North America’s first blast furnace and its obscure past.
Women pilots assemble at county airport
Left: Chesterfield Green Heat’s Robert Stowers scores to close the gap to one point.
BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
W
omen’s efforts in the aviation industry aren’t often celebrated in public forums, but that concept is the focus of the upcoming Gathering of Women Pilots event that will take place on Saturday, March 17, at Chesterfield County Airport. On that day, the Virginia Chapter of the Ninety-Nines, a world-renowned group of female pilots, will celebrate the efforts of women who fly throughout the state. Betty Vinson is the event coordinator and membership chairperson for the Virginia Chapter of the Ninety-Nines. The group holds its meetings every third Saturday at a different state airport, but, since they have held most of their meetings at Chesterfield County Airport, Vinson said it was appropriate for the group to gather there on Saturday. Pilot and flight instructor Sarah Morris, who also is a member of the Virginia Chapter of the Ninety-Nines, will be the featured guest speaker. In 2011, Morris won the Air Race Classic by flying more than 2,365 nautical miles PILOTS page 3
Shamrock 5K Run celebrates St. Patrick’s Day BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
S
t. Patrick’s Day is a holiday that is traditionally characterized by Irish food, festive music and fun. But, on Saturday, March 17, the first-ever Westchester Shamrock 5K Run and Kids’ 1K Fun Run will add fitness to the mix. Sponsored by Bon Secours St. Francis Watkins Centre, the races will travel through
the Westchester Commons Shopping Center and the Shoppes at Westchester in Midlothian. According to Rob Hargett of the Rebkee Company and the Shoppes at Westchester, the Westchester Shamrock 5K is a collaborative effort that was conceived by notables in the local business community. Along with Adrienne Rich of Free Agents Marketing, Brad Bailey of Gregg and Bailey,
CPAs, Julie Gordon of Westchester Commons Shopping Center and Zaremba Group, LLC and Lisa Kopeko of RaceIt, Hargett is one of the co-organizers for the event. The fundraiser will benefit two charitable efforts. The competition’s School Challenge will give a $500 donation to the area school with the most participants for physical
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2 || MARCH 15, 2012
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Dinner, dance Bethia United Methodist Church past, present, future celebrates dads and daughters
BY BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT Special Correspondent
T
he occasion was solemn but also joyous as building superintendent Billy Keller and the Rev. James (Jay) H. Carey Jr., pastor, prepared to place a cross on the steeple of Bethia United Methodist Church. Renovations have been completed and a new section added. Members of the congregation, the construction crew, Keller and Carey gathered in a circle around the cross. A prayer was said and then Keller was lifted high in the bucket of specialized work truck and the work was finalized by the placing of the cross. The church’s history began in 1885 when a letter was sent to Rev. H.G. Cowan, a minister serving the Hallsborough Charge, near the present day area of Midlothian and Huguenot roads, requesting he help several families form a Methodist Protestant Church in the Winterpock area. On Nov. 16, 1886, Rev. Cowan and the Rev. S.C. Orhum formally organized the Bethia Methodist Protestant Church. In 1892, the church purchased the Bethia Baptist Church building and a halfacre of land for $75. The building had served as a haven for sheep and horses, and been used as a school and a shelter for travelers. A merger of three Methodist denominations in 1939 that created the Methodist Church, Bethia became part of a seven-church charge. In 1957, the Winterpock Charge was formed
Camp Diva’s 5th annual event set for March 18 BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
W with Centenary and Bethia Churches. The churches shared a pastor, men’s, women’s and youth groups. In 1968, the Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Bretheren Churches merged to form the present-day United Methodist Church. In 1976, a decision was made to purchase land for a new church and a ground breaking service was held for phase one of the building program. The original church building was sold to another denomination. The cornerstone and memorial were moved to the new location. Carey has served as pastor since 1998 when he received his first official pastor’s appointment. “I received my ordination in Blacksburg at the annual conference,” he said. Carey said he labored faithful and sought to be educated.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF BETHIA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Bethia United Methodist Church recently underwent renovations and additions as shown in these photos of the construction work. Before the cross was placed atop the church, prayer was said.
“I went to college and earned a business degree and became part of the Discovery Church. The Discovery Church became a place of renewal for me.” Preaching seemed to be a natural path for Carey to follow. “I felt like I was called at a young age,” he said. “I used to practice behind a closed door and in front of a mirror.” Later in life, Carey said he had a time while he was attending business college that he wanted to prove to himself that he wasn’t called to preach. But, he said, that was when he became involved with the Discovery Church and “instead my fire was rekindled and I felt a surety that I was called.” The pastor said that being part of Winterpock area’s history is exciting. “We’ve become a rural church the suburbs have grown to,” Carey said. ‘This church has struggled through the depression and come through. It’s been a church that was nestled in a kind of rural oasis and now the area has grown with businesses and homes.” A special series of Easter worship services are scheduled. Carey said Easter season begins with Ash Wednesday. Then, there is Holy Week with Palm Sunday, Easter weekend and something special the church will be doing this year. “We’re going to have a ‘Mock Tomb
Wake,’ ” said Carey. “Enough people don’t remember Jesus Christ dying. We are going to remember his time in the tomb.” “On Easter Sunday, we will have a sunrise service starting 6:30 a.m. We’ll stand together outside of the church on the front porch and watch as the sun comes up. There have been some humorous moments in having the sunrise services,” the pastor said. “One of the residents in the area had a rooster, “ Carey said, chuckling, “and every year for several years we would be standing and waiting on the sun. All of a sudden that rooster would start crowing and sure enough the sun came up.” “The week of Easter Bethia United Methodist Church will be offering shelter to Caritas. We think Easter is an especially great time to welcome visitors and to help others,” Carey said. “Sometimes we have guests from Caritas join us for Easter services.” Carey and his wife Ann have been married for 26 years. They have three children with one attending college and two attending Cosby High School. “History (of the church),” Carey said,”is not over – it’s still being written.” The church is located at 10700 Winterpock Road. For more information, visit http://www.bethiaumc. org or call 739-3459.
hen a father has a hand in his daughter’s upbringing, it can have a monumental impact on her development. For that reason, Camp Diva will present its 5th annual Date with Dad Dinner and Dance celebration at the Cultural Center of India in Chester on Sunday, March 18. Camp Diva is a Richmond-based nonprofit organization that hosts after-school and summer instructional programs in the Central Virginia region that help teenage girls to raise their self-esteem. Specifically, the organization targets African-American girls who are between the ages of 11 and 17 because its director and founder, Angela Patton, said that the need to do so exists in the local AfricanAmerican community. “We’re a nonprofit that prepares girls for their passage into womanhood,” Patton said. “We have programs that enrich them spiritually, intellectually and academically.” “And we think about the challenges that AfricanAmerican girls and women face and try to equip them with the tools they need so they can find their spark. That way, they can find their ‘it’ and then excel towards developing their goals.” Indeed, the occasion has grown substantially since its inception. “The first year, 20 dads and 20 daughters came out, and it was all about connecting and reconnecting,” Patton said. Because the event highlights the importance of the bond between dads and daughters, it will recognize its members’ fathers. During the evening, the men and girls will take photos together on a red carpet, share a meal and show off their dancing skills. At the same time, the celebration will take time to acknowledge community leaders who have helped Camp Diva to further its mission. The festivities also will feature appearances by some well-known television and radio personalities, which Patton said she is excited.
Actor and Richmond native Chad L. Coleman, who portrayed the character Dennis “Cutty” Wise on the HBO series “The Wire,” will attend Sunday’s event with his daughter. Patton said that Clovia “Miss Community” Lawrence, the news director for Richmond’s Radio One stations and the executive director of the nationally syndicated radio show “The Tom Joyner Morning Show,” will present a video message to the fathers and daughters that Joyner taped especially for them. But before the event happens at the Cultural Center of India on Sunday, Camp Diva will host another Date with Dad Dinner and Dance event titled A Dance of Their Own at the Richmond City Jail on Saturday, March 17, for imprisoned fathers and their daughters. “Fathers that were incarcerated wrote us and the girls read the letters that they wrote, so this year we have two dances, two events and two venues,” Patton said. Sunday’s affair will be an acknowledgement of the strong bonds that exist between the dads and daughters who attend. Patton said she has seen the results of what strong paternal figures can contribute to adolescent girls’ lives first-hand. “Well, from my work with girls in the AfricanAmerican community, I have experienced that girls who have fathers in their lives have better self-esteem, are more likely to continue their educations, and have better relationships in womanhood,” Patton said. “So, we want to break the cycles of fatherless homes.” The Date with Dad Dinner and Dance will be held from 4:30 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, March 18, at the Cultural Center of India at 6641 Iron Bridge Parkway in Chester. Tickets are $42 for each father and daughter couple and $15 for each additional daughter. Advance registration is required, and tickets must be purchased online on or before Friday, March 16. For more information, call 852-4385 or go to www. campdiva.org.
Va. Tech cadet receives rare Air Force scholarship CONTRIBUTED REPORT
Connor Morgan Spangler, a freshman at Virginia Tech and the son of Mark and Maresa Spangler of Midlothian, was recently awarded a rare Air Force ROTC scholarship that will cover his entire tuition for his remaining three years as a member of the university’s Corps of Cadets and Air Force ROTC program. The scholarship also provides an annual book allowance and a monthly stipend. Cadet Spangler attended the Math and Science High School at Clover Hill in Chesterfield County. The Air Force ROTC In-College Scholarship Program (ICSP) is open to college freshmen and sophomores in any major. To be eligible for the ICSP, a student must pass the Air Force ROTC physical fitness test, have at least a 3.0 cumulative college grade point average, and display excellent communication and leadership skills among other criteria including community service. Spangler’s record was submitted to the National Air Force ROTC Headquarters by the Virginia Tech Air Force ROTC Leadership Team. He was then
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Virginia Tech cadet Connor Morgan Spangler is pursuing a double-major in aerospace engineering and computer engineering. He hopes to ultimately become an astronaut.
selected from the national pool of nominees. “Connor’s hard work is apparent with a 3.28 GPA last semester, and an excellent score of 96 on the physical
fitness assessment. We are glad to have him on board and see his potential as an [United States Air Force] officer grow,” said Capt. Geffrey Moy, assistant professor of aerospace studies at Virginia Tech. In addition to his Air Force ROTC ICSP scholarship, Spangler was one of only five recipients of a $2,000 scholarship awarded by the Richmond chapter of the Virginia Tech Alumni Association this past fall. The chapter’s scholarship committee is comprised of Virginia Tech alumni from the Richmond area and selects their scholarship recipients based on academic merit, financial need, community service and extracurricular activities during a student’s tenure in high school. Spangler also was the recipient of the Virginia Tech Corp of Cadets Emerging Leader Scholarship. Spangler, an Eagle Scout, is pursuing a double-major in aerospace engineering and computer engineering, and he will earn a minor in leadership studies. He plans to be a commissioned officer out of college and serve his country. His immediate career goal is to be a pilot in the United States Air Force and, ultimately, an astronaut.
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FIERY from page 1 police officer, but I had several friends that volunteered for the fire department and they encouraged me to join. Once I joined as a volunteer, I knew that I wanted to make it a career. I joined Colonial Heights Fire Department in 1993 as a volunteer when I was 19,� Elmore said. “I was hired as a career firefighter with Colonial Heights in 1996.� “There were two of us assigned to a station,� he said. “If we received a fire call, we jumped on the engine; if we received a medical call, we jumped on the ambulance.� Elmore now makes his home in Moseley, serving as a career firefighter with Chesterfield Fire and EMS. He has served as a firefighter and advanced to the rank of lieutenant. He serves as the department’s public information officer (PIO) and Community Programs coordinator. As a PIO, Elmore acts as a liaison between the department and the media. “I interact with the media as the department’s spokesperson on behalf of the fire chief,� Elmore said. “Within this role, I am on several committees and boards such as Chesterfield TRIAD, Central Virginia Media Council and Media Advisory Council at Clear Channel Communications.� What makes a public safety career stand out? “It’s a career that is very rewarding, “Elmore said excitedly. “Every day you come to work you have the potential to make the difference in someone’s life. You just have to take each opportunity that is presented and do the best you can for the citizen, and by doing that you will make a difference. The fire service has some of the best men and women in this world and I have been so blessed to get to know and work with so many of them.� Elmore said his faith is central in his life. At Bethia United Methodist Church in Winterpock, he serves as an associate pastor. “My family was looking for a new church once we moved to the area and found a United Methodist Church that was friendly and full of love,� Elmore said. “The assistant pastor was the Rev. Bill Terry at the time we started visiting. My youngest daughter had just been born (4 weeks old) and the week after our first visit to the church she was taken to Chippenham Hospital for a severe respiratory virus. When we came home from
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the hospital, Rev. Terry stopped by the house to visit (not knowing what we had just gone through). I felt that this was a sign from God that we were supposed to be a part of the Bethia church family. Rev. Terry prayed for my daughter that day and has been a mentor/inspiration to me ever since.� Emergencies happen at church, too. “With a congregation of around 300, there have been many opportunities for me,� Elmore continued, “to use my medical background to help those while at church.� “We have had members pass out, have chest pains, trouble breathing, etc., that I have been able to step in and begin treatment while waiting on the men and women of Chesterfield Fire and EMS.� Members of the congregation have been trained by Elmore to use an AED (automated external defibrillator) device. “Our church had put money aside to purchase two AEDs about a year prior to making the purchase,� Elmore said. “I knew if we purchased these devices that we would need some basic training on how to use them. Our United Methodist Men’s group sponsored a training class for any member that would be interested in learning how to operate the AED. I provided the training to about 30 members. Hopefully they will never have to use it, but if they do, they will know how.� “As I look back and think about how God called upon me to go down the road of ministry, there were so many events that I could relate but during those events I was not ready to listen.� “It was not until 2005,� Elmore said, “that my ears were opened to the wonderful voice of God. My father became sick with cancer and died after a short ninemonth battle. During those nine months, my only comfort was through the Lord and the assurance of knowing that my dad was at home with God. I started listening to God and His voice became so clear. He was calling me to into a service oriented role other than my fire department job. He was calling me to be a pastor.� Elmore and his wife Christy have been married almost 13 years. They have two daughters, Reese, 10, and Kenley, 7. “Focusing on God, my family, and serving God’s children is what I desire most out of life,� Elmore said.
Rescue squad sponsors drug seminar The Manchester Volunteer Rescue Squad is sponsoring a Community Drug Awareness Seminar at 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 18, at the Winfree Memorial Baptist Church to inform adult community members about the recent increased use of prescription drugs, designer drugs (25i), synthetic marijuana, and general substance abuse in the youth population. A variety of experts from the medical field, law enforcement, treatment and recovery, and SAFE
Inc. (Substance Abuse Free Environment) will discuss current statistics, trends, effects, dangers, signs, symptoms, treatment options, and methods to mobilize the community. The event is free of charge, but, due to the nature of the material covered, it is only open to adult community members. The church is located at 13617 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian. For more information on the Manchester VRS, visit www.mvrs.org.
MARCH 15, 2012 || 3
NEWS || FEATURES
IRONWORKS from page 1 understand why Falling Creek Ironworks deserves to be preserved. “The Falling Creek Ironworks is the earliest blast furnace in the New World to make iron ore, smelt it and make pig iron,� Browning said. “With pig iron, you can cast it and pour it into a mold to make cannonballs. And the other thing you can do is to forge it into wrought iron that you can beat with a hammer and turn it into something, because it takes more carbon out of the iron.� “But this thing is the beginning of North American heavy iron industry before U.S. Steel and (Andrew) Carnegie, who wouldn’t have been here otherwise. So, that’s what the place started as.� Although chronological findings will certainly be mentioned, they will only comprise a segment of Saturday afternoon’s festivities. That is, in addition to the tours, there will be other activities that will help attendees to see what it was like to live in Chesterfield’s past days. The Henricus Militia will exhibit drills and musket demonstrations, and the Youghtanund drum group will perform traditional Native American dances and songs. There also will be blacksmithing and candle-making demonstrations and period children’s games throughout the day. Although Browning said that the Falling Creek Ironworks Foundation hasn’t found concrete evidence that production actually happened there, it’s important
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Visitors to the event will get to see first-hand how Native Americans and colonists lived during the 17th century.
that Chesterfield residents realize that its existence made an impact on American history. And that’s what this weekend’s observance is all about. “We’re about trying to preserve, excavate and interpret the Falling Creek Ironworks,� Browning said. “And (we want to) let people know this is one of the few places where you can say something started in the New World,� Browning added. “It’s like going to Jamestown, which was the first settlement in the New World, because Falling Creek is the first place where iron was manufactured.� So, what kind of atmosphere should event goers expect during Saturday’s
proceedings? “An informative one, from my end of it,� Browning said. “They can see first-hand how Native Americans and colonists dressed and see what people did back then. Then, they can come to me and learn more than they might ever want to know about 17th-century iron-working.� Falling Creek Ironworks Day is scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 17, at Falling Creek Ironworks Park at 6407 Jefferson Davis Highway in Chesterfield. Admission is free. For more information about the event, call 751-4946 or go to www.fallingcreekironworks.org.
Local sorority chapter celebrates 25 years CONTRIBUTED REPORT
The Pi Rho Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. will host its 25th Anniversary Luncheon at noon on Saturday, April 7, at the Holiday Inn Koger Conference Center. Tickets are $35. They may be purchased online at www. proaka.com by clicking the banner on the right. The Chapter is celebrating Professionalism, Resiliency and Opulence that it has
PILOTS from page 1 over a four-day period. After Morris began teaching at Liberty University in Lynchburg in 2011, she transferred her membership to the Virginia Ninety-Nines chapter. Shortly thereafter, Vinson learned that Morris had won the race and asked her to be this year’s guest speaker. “I got the notice from our headquarters, and we started emailing each other,� Vinson said. “She said she had flown in the Air Race Classic and didn’t tell me she had won.� “Before I composed the email (to ask her to speak publicly about the Air Race Classic), I decided to go back and Google Air Race Classic 2011. And, lo and behold, I discovered that she placed first.� Vinson said the Air Race Classic is a rigorous flying competition, which is why her group is so enthused to have Morris tell her story to the attendees at Saturday’s event. In fact, Vinson said that winning the timed contest is downright challenging because a pilot has to know her aircraft well in order to succeed. “In order to be precise, you have to understand how your plane is going to perform,� Vinson said. “Airplanes fly better in cool weather with low humidity, and things like that have to be taken into consideration to come up
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brought to Chesterfield and surrounding counties over the past 25 years. The celebration will consist of lunch, an awards presentation, live interviews and a presentation to those individuals who chartered the chapter. Chartered in 1987, the Pi Rho Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. has provided service to Chesterfield County and the Richmond Metropolitan area for more than 24 years.
Pi Rho Omega is a part of the Sorority’s Mid-Atlantic Region and actively participates in a variety of community activities, including Relay for Life and the annual Breast Cancer walk. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority is America’s first Greekletter organization founded in 1908 by, and for, AfricanAmerican college women. Headquartered in Chicago, it is one of the world’s leading service organizations.
The Sorority’s members have made a commitment “to serve all mankind� through a nucleus of more than 260,000 women in more than 975 chapters in the United States, the Caribbean, Canada, Germany, Korea, Japan and in the continent of Africa. For more information about Pi Rho Omega, go to www.proaka.com. For more information about Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., go to www.aka1908.org.
with the best estimates for the times.� The event will conclude with its Fly Market, which is an opportunity for the Virginia Chapter of the Ninety-Nines to sell aviation-themed wares. Although the pilots are allowed to sell their own gently-used items, the majority of the items will be new, and proceeds from those goods will be donated to the International Ninety-Nines organization’s scholarship fund. “We’re women, and we all love to go shopping, so we’ll have t-shirts and sweatshirts there with various sayings such as “REAL Women Fly,� or just fun things like that,� Vinson said. “We also have caps and some log books that we designed together (that can) be used by passengers.� A complimentary lunch also will be served that day.
For that reason, Vinson is asking attendees to pre-register for the event, although she said her organization doesn’t want to turn anyone away. “We do want to stress that if they don’t know if they can make it, they need to come and not feel like they’re imposing on anybody,� Vinson said. “But we would appreciate a phone call.� Nevertheless, Vinson said she hopes that the event will not only draw pilots, but she also wants women who are interested in aviation careers to attend. When asked what the general public should be aware of about women’s achievements in that industry, Vinson said they should know that women are definitely involved in air travel. “Lots of women pilots who fly for the airlines and for the military, and (it’s) not a
male-only thing,� Vinson said. “But women experience flight training and approach it differently, and that’s why they need to have the camaraderie of other female pilots.� The Gathering of Women Pilots will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 17, at Chesterfield County Airport at 7511 Airfield Drive in North Chesterfield. Admission is free, but advance registration is suggested. For more information, call Betty Vinson at 720-1132 or e-mail bettyvinson@verizon. net.
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MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Area enjoys the winter that wasn’t BY JIM RIDOLPHI Special Correspondent
I
t’s official. Richmond just recorded its fourth warmest winter on record, according to National Weather Service records. The agency has records from as far back as 1880, and for those of you who thought this winter took a vacation, you were right. I suppose many will make a strong case that the warmer winters are a clear trend reflecting the well-debated effects of global warming. Others contend the climate changes are cyclical, and data does not support a prolonged warming of the earth’s surface. For many of us, the signs of this year’s lack of cold weather were more subtle. When you only have to dig a quarter of the way through your sweater chest you know something is wrong. Who knows what was happening in 1889 when Richmond recorded its warmest winter on record with an average temperature of 49.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Those statistics seem skewed on first examination, and it’s easy to account for the anomaly, considering record-keeping methods in the 19th century. But, there’s no doubt the warmest winter being recorded in the 1880s doesn’t support current arguments that global warming is increasing at an alarming rate. Given those assumptions, how do you account for the fact that the city recorded its second warmest winter in 1931? It’s not that the winter of 2011-12 will be remembered for its summer-like days. There were only six days with temperatures above 70 F. That’s only one above the average. The lack of days with temperatures below 40 F, only six for the entire year, made it feel like winter never arrived. So, what we can we gather from the statis-
tics? Probably nothing. But there’s no doubt that 2011-12 will be remembered as warmer than usual. While we always count on an ample snowfall each winter, this season’s totals were, not surprisingly, below average. And when the snow did arrive, it didn’t last because temperatures rarely were below freezing for two days in a row. There is one more aspect of the warmest winter in memory. March does not always signal the end of winter, and some of the city’s most significant snowfalls occurred in March and April. So, don’t put those snow shovels away just yet. On April 3, 1915, the city received 10 inches of snow. The majority of people I spoke with didn’t even miss our usual seasonal winter. And some welcomed the prospect of lowered heating costs, more days outside in the sunshine, and the lack of windshield scraping that accompanied this past winter. The Virginia Department of Transportation’s snow removal budget got some much-needed relief, and the usual influx of spring potholes is almost not noticeable. This is all good news for Virginians who felt more like Floridians, at least for one winter season. Area hospitals saw fewer falls due to ice and snow, and sled sales probably plummeted during the unusually warm season. Reflecting on a warmer than usual winter reminds me of the most simple words of wisdom that always warned that you can’t do anything about the weather. The only other option is heading North or South, depending on your meteorological preferences. I’m not sure how this weather pattern works, but, if the winter is any indication, I’m not looking forward to summer. For now, I’m just enjoying the nice weather.
CRIME REPORT All data are based on the publicly available Chesterfield County Police Department daily arrest and crime releases and are reported according to Federal Incident Based Reporting rules.
23112 Feb. 19 3500 block of Stoney Ridge Road Both plates were stolen.
23235
Feb. 23
1800 block of Irondale Road Unknown suspect/s siphoned gas from victim’s truck.
7700 block of Gallant Fox Court Victim stated suspect/s gained entry to his residence and at this time nothing has been reported stolen. No signs of forced entry were noted.
Feb. 24 13300 block of Prince James Drive Unknown suspects went into the victim’s unlocked vehicle; nothing was taken.
Feb. 26 14700 block of Mill Spring Drive Items were taken from victim’s unlocked vehicle.
Feb. 27 6500 block of Woodlake Village Court Items were taken from victim’s unlocked tool box attached to his pickup truck.
23113 Feb. 22
Altrusa group awarded grant CONTRIBUTED REPORT
Altrusa International of The Capital City of Virginia, a grassroots Chesterfield-based club that promotes better communities through service, has been awarded a grant by the Altrusa International Foundation Inc. Grants program. The grant is to assist with the provision of literacy scholarships given annually to women in need of basic training to re-enter the workforce or to obtain skills for better jobs. The sole purpose of the Foundation is to be an avenue through
which Altrusans can assist Altrusa clubs throughout the world, to carry out their programs of community service and assistance to individuals in need. Funding is provided by voluntary contributions from members, Altrusa clubs, and the general public. Since the inception of the scholarship program in The Capital City of Virginia in 1993, the local club has awarded about 47 statewide competitive scholarships to deserving women that range from $250 to $1,000. The Foundation’s grant, in the
amount of $750, will be used by the local club to obtain matching funds for scholarships to be awarded in 2012. The club does not receive local or state funding. Joanne Cash, the Ida Hill scholarship’s committee chair, said, “My committee will continue to work closely with the VCU Literacy Office to select deserving awardees and with club fundraisers to increase the number of recipients.” The scholarships are given in honor of Dr. Ida J. Hill to recognize her work with adult literacy programs in Virginia.
Bone marrow drive to help student CONTRIBUTED REPORT
A bone marrow drive is scheduled for Sunday to help a Clover Hill High School student. The Journey Christian Church at 3505 Old Hundred Road, Midlothian, is hosting the drive from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for a 17-year-old named Keith (his last name was not released) through the Be The Match organization. A senior and wrestling star at Clover Hill, Keith enjoys football, video games, listening to music, telling jokes and comedy.
In January, he was diagnosed with leukemia. Keith is receiving very intensive chemotherapy, but, if he does not stay in remission, he will need a bone marrow transplant. Registering only involves some paperwork and four swabs of the cheek. Those who are a match for someone will be notified. At that time, the individual would be informed of the options to donate bone marrow to save that person’s life.
There is no cost for registering. A contribution box will be available at the event to make a donation in any amount to support adding more people to the registry. Lunch and snacks also will be provided. For more information about the church, visit www.journeychristian.us. More information about the organization Be The Match can be found at http://www.bethematchfoundation.org/goto/journey.
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window and stole property from the victim’s residence.
1900 block of Castlebridge Road Suspect/s forced entry through a screen door and then forced entry through a bathroom window. The interior was rummaged through and property was stolen.
Feb. 20
1000 block of Koger Center Boulevard Suspect/s attempted to pry open several coin operated machines at the location. At this time nothing has been reported stolen.
Feb. 21 2100 block of Old Indian Road Stole “year” decal.
Feb. 23 1000 block of Koger Center Boulevard Suspect/s attempted to pry open several coin operated machines at the location.
23236 Feb. 22 10700 block of Haverford Lane Suspect/s used a drill to remove screws from the hinges on the victim’s locked shed. Property was reported stolen. 600 block of Research Road Multiple vehicles at the location were rummaged through and it’s unknown at this time if anything was stolen.
Feb. 23
Feb. 23
11800 block of Midlothian Turnpike Multiple vehicles had been entered and rummaged through, but nothing reported stolen at this time.
11500 block of Smoketree Drive Items were taken from victim’s unsecured vehicle.
Feb. 25 1200 block of Buckingham Station Drive Unknown suspect kicked open the front door and gained entry to the victim’s apartment. At this time nothing has been reported stolen.
Feb. 27 1600 block of Danhurst Drive Suspect/s forced entry through a rear
SHAMROCK from page 1 fitness equipment, while Movin’ Mania is Bon Secours’ wellness initiative to fight childhood obesity in the Central Virginia region. “There’s a team of five of us, and the connection between the five made it a perfect storm,” Hargett said. “And we wanted to bring in Bon Secours as our title sponsor, and when Bon Secours came on, they brought in Movin’ Mania.” So, what was the inspiration for doing a St. Patrick’s Day-themed exercise event? Hargett admitted that he and his collaborators looked at the calendar after the concept was already underway. And, despite the logistical issues with setting up a race route near a major access road like Midlothian Turnpike, the planning committee remained undaunted. “When Brad Bailey originally passed the idea around to Midlothian Rotary, they didn’t want to take on another project at the time, but St. Patrick’s Day seemed like the right time,” Hargett said. “Plus, Brad and I started talking, and, originally we were going to make it an 8K, but the logistics for shutting down Midlothian Turnpike were impossible, so we rethought it, and the distance (for a 5K) worked out right.” The 1K Kids’ Fun Run will ensure that youngsters get the chance to stretch their limbs while their parents participate in the adult run. Teams from Running With Those Who Can’t, a group comprised of runners with disabilities, also will
23832 Feb. 20 6900 block of Laughton Drive Suspect/s entered the residence through an unlocked rear door and stole property.
Feb. 22 9600 block of Tree Line Terrace Suspect/s attempted to force entry to the victim’s locked shed. At this time nothing has been reported stolen.
take part in the Westchester Shamrock 5K by using adaptive strollers. It should be noted that cash prizes will go to the 5K Run’s first, second and third place winners. That’s because, as Hargett said, some people need to have incentive to participate in an inaugural race. “The initiative is Movin’ Mania, and all of us have kids, so anybody who goes out to run, it’s good to run with your kids,” Hargett said. “And we hope it’s going to be an event that will return year after year, but we knew we needed an initiative to get people excited.” The event will still give sprinters the chance to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day after the run. Performances by local bands and Irish dancers, sports demonstrations and a costume contest with cash awards will round out the occasion. And don’t be surprised if you happen to see Hargett getting in on the fun during Saturday’s festivities. “My business partner and I will be in kilts,” he said. The Westchester Shamrock 5K Run and Kids’ 1K Fun Run will be held from 7 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 17. The races will start at Westchester Commons Shopping Center in Midlothian. Registration for the Westchester Shamrock 5K Run is $25 on or before Friday, March 16, and $30 on Saturday, March 17. For the 1K Fun Run, registration is $5 on or before Friday, March 16, and $8 on Saturday, March 17. To register, go to www.westchestershamrock.com.
3229 Anderson Highway Powhatan, Va 23114 Office: (804) 379-6451 Fax: (804) 379-6215 Mail: PO Box 10 Powhatan, VA 23139
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STUFF TO DO E-mail your event to editor@midlothianexchange.com. Subject line: EVENT
THURSDAY, MARCH 15 Rev. Glenn Maddox will be in revival at 7 p.m. March 15-18 at the Chesterfield Baptist Church at 16520 Hull Street Rd., Moseley. A dinner will begin at 6:15 p.m. Friday.
SUNDAY, MARCH 18 Three Chesterfield County Lions Clubs – Brandermill, Midlothian and Woodlake – are joining to host the Bland Music Scholarship Foundation’s annual music competition at 2 p.m. at the Brandermill Church at 4500 Millridge Parkway in Midlothian. For more information, go to http://www.bmw-lions.org and http://www.blandfoundation.org/.
TUESDAY, MARCH 20 The Salisbury Garden Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Church of the Redeemer. This month, the club will spotlight Chuck Bateman’s presentation, “Landscape Design 101.” For more information about the club, contact Doris Morris, president, at doriskmorris@comcast.net.
SATURDAY, MARCH 24 Midlothian Christian Fellowship at 905 Southlake Blvd. will hold its annual craft bizarre and yard sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. There is a need for crafters, food vendors and yard sellers. To register, or for more information, call 441-3557 or e-mail butterflyzai@gmail.com. Southside Moms of Multiples Everything For Kids Sale, featuring gear, clothes, shoes, toys, books and more, will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. at Manchester Middle School, 7401 Hull Street Road. Cash only. The nonprofit group is on Facebook. Proceeds benefit local groups and families in need.
TUESDAY, MARCH 27 Advocacy Meeting will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the FACES Center. What is addiction? How can we understand relapse and how families can help with recovery? The session will discuss how the underlying disorders such as anxiety, depression or trauma are factors that can lead to addiction or relapse. Video interviews with Kathleen Brady, M.D., Ph .D., and Nora Volkow, M.D., will explain the necessity of treating mental disorders and addiction simultaneously. They also stress the brain’s enormous capacity to
recover with the right comprehensive treatments. FACES (Family Advocacy Creating Education and Services) is located at 11601 Lucks Lane, Midlothian. For more information, call 378-0035 or visit www. facesva.org. Come2Life Ministries will present “Bible Talk,” a town hall-style meeting, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Midlothian Public Library. The program that will explore questions including “What’s in the Bible?” “How do I know it’s reliable?” “Who exactly is Jesus?” “Does the Bible apply to me today?” For more information: call 245-4551 or visit www.Come2LifeMinistries.org. The organization is on Facebook.
WEEKLY TUESDAYS Overeaters Anonymous Group #51606 meets at 2 p.m. Tuesdays at Central Baptist Church at 1510 Courthouse Rd., Richmond (Mission House in rear of church). For more information, call Peg at 379-9558. The Bethia United Methodist Church Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) program is accepting registrations and new members. Bethia MOPS meets from 9:30 a.m. to noon on the first, third and fifth Tuesdays through May 15. For more information, contact Kara Harris at 763-6067 or karaharris@verizon.net. Bethia United Methodist Church is located at 10700 Winterpock Road, Chesterfield.
WEEKLY THURSDAYS Moms of Tots to Teens (MOTTS) meets from 9:45 a.m. to noon the first and third Thursday of the month through May 17 at Bon Air Baptist Church, 2531 Buford Road. Preschool child care is available. For more information, contact Loretta Sherwood at tiandlo@aol.com or go to www.bonairbaptist.org/motts. The Al-Anon meeting Awaken to Hope meets at 7:30 p.m. every Thursday at St John Neumann Catholic Church located at 2480 Batterson Rd. in Powhatan. Pastor James C. Vinson of Resources for Life presents services from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 11300 West Huguenot Rd, Midlothian. For more information, call 305-5100 or e-mail jamesvnsn@yahoo.com.
MARCH 15, 2012 || 5
YOUR WORLD || TRAVEL
Program aims to encourage regular exercise, fitness CONTRIBUTED REPORT
Most Virginians want to stay fit and physically active but have difficulty finding the time, energy and motivation to get moving. Fit Extension, an eight-week physical activity program developed by Virginia Cooperative Extension, helps Virginians improve their exercise habits, diet and overall quality of life in a fun and challenging way. When the New Year comes in, most people say they want to lose weight and exercise more. Getting started is easy, but staying with it is much harder. The first two weeks are the hardest because your body isn’t used to moving yet. By keeping at it and after a month, you’ll have a new lifelong habit. FIT Extension encourages all
participants to engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity such as brisk walking, running, yoga, or biking on five or more days of the week. This adds up to at least 150 minutes of exercise each week, the amount of aerobic physical activity recommended for adults by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Although FIT Extension is not a competition, co-workers, friends and family members join together in teams of six. Each team has a captain who helps the group set goals for its personal achievement. If each member of a six-person team does the recommended amount of physical activity, the team would walk the equivalent of 480 miles, the length of Virginia. Anyone age 5 and up who is
Civil War tours continue March 24 CONTRIBUTED REPORT
The Chesterfield County Department of Parks and Recreation, in partnership with the Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia, will continue its three-part series of historical programs about the Civil War on Saturday, March 24. The first was presented on March 3. Participants will visit some of the sites that played major roles during the Bermuda Hundred Campaign. This tour will visit Dutch Gap, Battery Dantzler, Point of Rocks and Drewry’s Bluff. The tour will depart from Henricus Historical Park at 10 a.m. and will return at 2 p.m. The $15 fee includes transportation to all sites. A walking tour of Butler’s Offensive at Point of Rocks
will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 31. Discover the history surrounding the military strategy of Butler’s Offensive in May 1864, including Benjamin Butler’s headquarters, the Union hospital where Clara Barton served and the imposing Union signal tower. The tour meets at the trailhead at R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks at 201 Enon Church Road in Chester. The $8 fee includes a tour guide. Participants in each tour are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes. Registration is required. To register, visit chesterfieldhistory.com. For more information, contact Bryan Truzzie at 7514946.
willing and able to participate in an eight-week physical activity program may sign up for FIT Extension. The program also includes a nutrition component that promotes increased fruit and vegetable consumption. The Fit Extension program will be offered April 1 through May 26. There is a group registration fee of $30. A Fit Extension Kickoff will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Friday, March 23, at Chesterfield Cooperative Extension. If you are interested in FIT Extension, or have questions about the program, contact Linda Jackson Cole at licole2@vt.edu or 751-4401 before the March 30 registration deadline.
Lucy Corr dance to be held March 23 CONTRIBUTED REPORT
The third annual Lucy Corr Foundation Rock ’n’ Roll Dance to benefit a free dental clinic will be held from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. on Friday, March 23, at the Cultural Center of India, 6641 Ironbridge Parkway, Chester. Tickets are $50 each for a dance with live music by the Kings of Swing, full buffet dinner, adult beverages and door prizes. Tickets are available at www.lucycorr. eventbrite.com or by calling 706-5706. Lucy Corr Foundation supports the Lucy Corr Village free dental clinic. The Foundation has received a $47,000 one-to-one challenge grant from The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation to modernize the clinic. All proceeds from the dance will help to meet the challenge grant. Sponsorships are available by e-mailing dmarlow@lucycorrvillage.com.
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EXERCISE Olympic hopeful returns to JRHS
|| MARCH 15, 2012
sports || fitness
MidlotHiAnExCHAngE.CoM
Wells brings inspirational message to alma mater BY JIm mCCONNELL jmcconnell@midlothianexchange.com
A
s one of the world’s top hurdlers, Kellie Wells spends most of the year training at her home base near Orlando or traveling to track-and-field competitions across the globe. When the 29-year-old Chesterfield County native tripped over a hurdle last month and suffered a broken right arm that ended her indoor season, she made the best of the situation by proving she can come home again. Wells, who is healing and preparing for the Olympic Trials this summer in Eugene, Ore., took advantage of some rare free time last Friday to address students at her alma mater, James River High School. Calling it “a blessing” to be back at the school where she became a state champion, Wells delivered words of inspiration and answered questions from students before gracefully fielding an unexpected invitation to prom during an autograph session. “I know when I’m on the track, I’m not just out there for myself; I’m representing my hometown,” Wells said, drawing
PHOTO BY JIM MCCONNELL
James River High alum Kellie Wells, one of the world's top hurdlers, speaks to students at the school Friday afternoon.
Hurlers thrive in new role
WeLLs p7
MEDFORD BASKETBALL FINALS
BY JIm mCCONNELL
T
jmcconnell@midlothianexchange.com
PHOTO BY JIM MCCONNELL
meadowbrook's Cristian Chuga charges toward the basket during Thursday's medford League final while Prince Edward's Antonio Baker defends.
PHOTO BY JIM MCCONNELL
meadowbrook's players celebrated with the trophy after defending their title.
Created and developed to give individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to train and compete in the sport of basketball, the local Medford League held its annual Finals Day last Thursday at James River High School. The Meadowbrook Monarchs defended their league championship with a 38-26 victory over Prince Edward. There were also four exhibition games, giving players from the league's other teams a chance to showcase their talents for the fans. James River's No. 2 team and Matoaca's B team finished in a 12-12 tie, while Clover Hill defeated James River's No. 1 team by a 12-6 margin. Manchester downed L.C. Bird 22-4 and Matoaca's A team claimed an 8-6 victory over Monacan.
DENNY'S DRIVE
wo former standout pitchers for local high schools have flourished this season since moving from the starting rotation to the closer’s role in college. Blake Hauser (Manchester) looks to be fully recovered from the arm issues that bothered him early in his career at VCU. The junior has been dominant out of the Rams’ bullpen in his team-high 10 appearances, allowing only four hits and two earned runs (1.59 ERA) in 11.1 innings pitched. Hauser was 6-for-6 on save opportunities and had struck out 23 -- for an average of two Ks per inning -heading into Tuesday’s game at East Carolina. Ronnie Shaban (Cosby) has also been highly efficient finishing games for Virginia Tech. The senior righthander has three saves in his first four appearances and hasn’t allowed a run in 3 IP while striking out four. Shaban is also batting .333 (10-30) with three doubles and four RBIs. Another former Cosby standout, sophomore outfielder Mitchell Shifflett, drove in the game-winning run with a two-out single in the eighth inning Saturday as his Virginia squad nipped Virginia Tech 4-3. Shifflett, who was used primarily as a pinch-runner and defensive replacement last season as the Cavs advanced all the way to the College World Series, is batting .400 (10-25) with six runs scored and is 3-for-3 on stolen bases. No local player has been hotter at the plate than Joey Cujas (Manchester). The VCU sophomore is off to a blazing .455 start, with 25 hits in his first 44 official atbats. Cujas also has a teamhigh 12 doubles and 16 RBIs. Senior Tadd Bower (Cosby) is also off to a good start offensively, batting .317 (13-41) with five doubles, a home run and seven RBIs for William & Mary. Bower has amassed a .512 slugging percentage in 12 games played and also has stolen four bases in five attempts. Sean Tierney (Clover Hill), the top returning starter on JMU’s pitching staff, is 2-2 with a 5.32 ERA and has allowed 13 earned runs in his first 22 IP this season. The Dukes’ ace will need to get it rolling if they hope to overcome a slow start (just five wins in their first 16 games) and defend their Colonial Athletic Association title. Tierney’s teammate, junior Bradley Shaban (Cosby), leads JMU with a .296 batting average and has 13 RBIs in his first 15 games.
PHOTO BY JIM MCCONNELL
meadowbrook's Lauren Johnson tries to knock the ball away from Prince Edward's Zach Nunnally.
Each week, the Midlothian Exchange will track the progress of Chesterfield native Denny Hamlin as he pursues his first NASCAR Sprint Cup championship Last week: After qualifying 17th at Las Vegas, Hamlin patiently stayed out of trouble while waiting for opportunities to work on the No. 11 car, which had been tight from the start of the race. Few cautions hampered his chances, however, and he settled for a 20th-place finish at the 1.5-mile oval. Where he stands: Through three races, Hamlin is third in the Sprint Cup points, 12 behind leader Greg Biffle and just two points behind second place Kevin Harvick. Up next: The series comes back east to the legendary Bristol bullring. Qualifying will take place Friday afternoon and the green flag will fly Sunday at 1 p.m.
MidlotHiAnExCHAngE.CoM
EXERCISE
MARCH 15, 2012 ||
sports || fitness
PHOTO BY JIM MCCONNELL
Wells lives in Florida but remains close to Vatel Dixon, her former track coach and mentor at James River.
PHOTO BY JIM MCCONNELL
Kellie Wells received an impromptu invitation to James River's prom as she signed autographs at the high school Friday.
“She was just so much WeLLs from p6 better than the females cheers from both students around her in the region and and faculty. “The 804 is still the state,” Dixon recalled. in my heart so strong.” Dixon told Wells she had Wells urged her fellow the ability to compete in the Rapids to persevere and Olympics one day if she was “believe you can be whatever willing to work hard and you want to be” – a particumake the necessary sacrilarly powerful message when fices. you consider the obstacles Wells was dubious, to say she’s already overcome to the least. give herself a legitimate shot She clashed often in at the Olympics. those days with Dixon, who Wells revealed last sumattributed their differences mer on her blog that both to a battle of wills between she and her mother, Jeanette, a “typical teenager” and an had been subjected to physi- equally “bullheaded” adult. cal abuse from Jeanette’s Knowing Wells was tryfiancé, Rick Gomes. Wells ing to navigate the already also alleged that Gomes sexu- challenging teenage years ally assaulted her when she without her mother, Dixon was 16. wasn’t about to let her get Not long after that off the right path and fall incident, both Gomes and victim to drug/alcohol abuse Jeanette Wells were killed in a or teen pregnancy. car accident. The turning point in their It was around that time relationship came when that Wells’ immense talent Dixon “benched” Wells began to shine through on for a Dominion District the track. James River track meet against Clover Hill. A coach Vatel Dixon was the distraught Wells watched first to recognize potential her teammates lose the greatness in the girl he still meet, knowing she could’ve considers “like a daughter.” made a difference if she’d
been able to compete, and realized it was time to get on board with the coach’s plan. Wells went on to become James River’s first state track champion in 2001, garnered a scholarship to Hampton University and earned allAmerican honors before graduating and pursuing a professional career in track and field. “He saw a light in me that I didn’t see in myself,” Wells said of Dixon. The coach’s Olympic prophecy nearly came true four years ago. Wells ran a personal-best 12.58 in the semifinals at the 2008 Olympic Trials and earned a berth in the finals, where a top-3 finish would’ve secured a spot on the U.S. team. But as she was slowing down after crossing the finish line, Wells suffered a torn hamstring that prevented her from running in the finals and eventually cost her most of the 2009 season. “I cried for her because I know she’s worked incredibly hard,” Dixon said. “We get emotional sometimes
CLASSIFIEDS
because we know where we’ve come from. But when I talk to her, I tell her ‘Keep pushing. We’re gonna get there.’” Now the girl who used to watch the Olympics on television and dream of being Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Gail Devers is running in the famous footsteps of those former track stars. Wells is ranked No. 2 among American females and No. 4 in the world in the 100-meter hurdles. Barring another injury, she’ll be a heavy favorite to represent the U.S. at the London Olympics. But while she knows nothing is guaranteed, Wells maintains a “total commitment” both to her goal and inspiring others to chase their dreams. “I’ve always wanted to go to the Olympics and I just can’t give up on that,” she said. “If I make it, a little piece of the national anthem will be just for me. On hard training days, that keeps me going.”
Sunday Times-Dispatch
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(804) 746-1235 ext. 3
FAX: (804) 379-6215 or classifieds@midlothianexchange.com
HAULING
Homes for Sale
ONLY
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
Merchandise MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Bed - New Mattress Set in Plastic w/ warr. Full $99, Queen $109, King $189. Delivery/Lay -A-Way. Call 804-340-0143.
Recruitment GENERAL EMPLOYMENT SEDONA TAPHOUSE IS NOW HIRING EXPERIENCED SERVERS and BT’s! Business is booming and we need a few more great people. Must be able to work well under pressure, be a team player, and have a great attitude. Apply online at www.sedonataphouse.com, 379-0037. Drivers: Getting Home is Easier. Chromed out trucks w/APU’s. Chromed out pay package! 90% Drop & Hook. CDL-A, 6mos Exp. (888) 247- 4037
NOW HIRING
Drivers / Truck On March 17th and 18th, 2012 a representative of Ashley Distribution Services will be at the Wyndham Richmond Airport Hotel in Richmond, VA to meet with you about the job openings listed below. Call 608-863-1149 to contact our Road Representative to schedule an interview. Our Drivers average over $65,000 per year; paid day-pay and drop-pay. Weekly home time, great benefits and the security of driving for the #1 home furnishings company in the world make this very attractive. We deliver to retail furniture stores in VA, MD, W. VA & PA. 1 year recent OTR experience, good work history & clean MVR/PSP reports required.
Companies desperately need employees to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 wkly potential. 1-985-646-1700 , Dept. VA-2713
PASS TIME IN LINE. READ THE NEWSPAPER.
SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY
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8 || MARCH 15, 2012
MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
Chesterfield Marketplace
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY
CALL 746-1235 X3 OR EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MECHLOCAL.COM TO PROMOTE YOUR SERVICES IN THIS DIRECTORY.
Roofing
LAWSON FENCING, LLC. FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
Hicks Painting
Specializing In Quality Fencing Privacy • Chain Link • Vinyl • Aluminum • Split Rail • Custom Wood • Board • Farm Fencing & Repair
Any Carpentry Powerwashing Deck Sealant & Repairs
784-7027
(804) 357-8920
No job too small - all types of roofing
— FREE ESTIMATES — lawsonfencing@netzero.net Licensed & Insured
LAWHORNE LAWN CARE
David’s Landscaping
____
& Hauling 15+ Years of Experience
10 off first cleaning
$
2554257-01
Specializing in re-mulching, cleaning beds, trimming shrubs, re-edging, light brush hauling, Bobcat work & clean up. Spreading gravel for driveways. Regrading with screened topsoil. Fertilizer and seeding available.
Delivery also available. Lic/Ins Free Estimates
804-794-1474
Backyard Buildings and More • Sheds and Play Systems built ON SITE • Value Sheds starting at $799 installed
2590552-01
8502 Brook Road, Glen Allen, VA 23060
804-266-2996
____
specials
Mulch • Topsoil • Gravel Landscape Rock • Compost
FINANCING AVAILABLE
804-598-9074
Serving Midlothian, Powhatan & Surrounding Counties
Free telephone estimates • 804-382-7749 maidtosparklecleaning.com Residential & Commercial Cleaning Since 1998 Licensed, Bonded, Insured
Steve’s Painting & Pressure Washing Reasonable Prices Licensed & Insured
357-1164 (cell)
Mowing • Mulch • Hedges • Aeration Seeding • Fertilizing • Plants • Light Tree Work • Power Washing & Snow Removal Very Reasonable Rates!
Over 25 Years Experience • REFERRALS AVAILABLE • Family Owned & Operated
relawhorne@yahoo.com
No Job Too Small!
Everyth in For You g r Yard!
(804) 641-4426
Advertise in the Business & Professional Directory Today!
Pick up a Midlothian Exchange at any of these locations CROSSROADS SHOPPING CENTER: Angelo’s Italian Restaurant - 11643-B Midlothian Tpke Schlotzsky’s Deli - 11607-A Midlothian Tpke CHESTERFIELD CO. PUBLIC LIBRARY: Clover Hill Library branch - 3701 Deer Run Dr. LaPrade Library branch - 9000 Hull Street Rd. Central Library - 9501 Lori Road, Chesterfield SYCAMORE SQUARE: The Italian Café - 1002 Sycamore Square
GOODWILL: Goodwill - Hull Street - 11749 Hull Street Rd Goodwill - Alverser Drive - 1211 Alverser Drive Goodwill - Chesterfield - 8535 Midlothian Tpke THE SHOPPES AT BELLGRADE: Starbucks at Bellgrade - 11307-F Polo Place VILLAGE MARKETPLACE SHOPPING CENTER: deRochonnet Delights - 13228 Midlothian Tpke Midlothian Book Exchange - 13195 Midlothian Tpke
OTHER DESTINATIONS: Kroger at Ivymont Square - 14245 Midlothian Tpke CJW - Hioaks Building - 500 Hioaks Road Midlothian Apothecary - 13502 Midlothian Tpke Midlothian YMCA - 737 Coalfield Rd. One More Bite Café & Bakery - 212 Heaths Way Road ACAC Fitness & Wellness Center - 11621 Robious Rd. Shoney’s - 9963 Hull Street Road