04/25/2013 by Midlothian Exchange

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY

4.25.13

INSIDE SPORTS Dominican trio at bat for James River High Page 6

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Businessman/marathoner saddened by Boston blasts BY ROSLYN RYAN Special to the Midlothian Exchange

A SUBMITTED PHOTO

Daniel List ran the Boston Marathon, but dodged disaster.

s he made his way through the course during last week’s Boston Marathon, Powhatan resident Daniel List kept telling himself the same thing over and over. “All I kept thinking about was how fortunate I was,” said List, referring to the near-perfect weather. The year before the temperature had soared into the high 80s, making for miserable race conditions. “Of course, by the end of the day, I knew that the day was obviously so much

worse than anyone could have imagined,” List said last Tuesday, as he waited to board a plane home. He finished the race with a time of 2:42 and was actually back at his hotel a few blocks from the finish line when the two bomb blasts ripped through a crowd of spectators, killing three and wounding more than 100. List, who owns James River Physical Therapy in Midlothian, said he never heard the explosions and didn’t realize what had happened until his wife returned to the hotel room and said she had seen people sob-

bing in the lobby. Many of them looked confused, she reported, and some couldn’t hear. List said he’s still shaken by the fact that his wife had been waiting for him where the first of the two explosions took place. “It’s a little scary to think that she’d been standing there for two hours,” he said. A veteran of nearly 20 marathons, List said he’s saddened by the terrible events of that day, and also angered by what has been taken from those who worked so hard to be able to take part in the marathon.

“It really is a big, big day for so many people, and this stole that away from them,” he said.”It made it into an infamous day.” This was List’s second time running the Boston Marathon – his first was in 2000—and he said he thinks the race’s storied past will help it weather the tragic events of April 15. “The Boston Marathon is really such a wonderful event,” List said. “I’m sure it will continue and it will be as wonderful as it has been.” Roslyn Ryan is the editor for Powhatan Today.

Manchester High DECA advances BY JODI DEAL Regional Reporter

uture entrepreneurs from Manchester High School walked away from a recent marketing conference with wins under their belts. Manchester marketing teacher Becky Hardison said eight of her students qualified at an early March DECA State Leadership Conference to advance to the organization’s International Career Development Conference, which opened on Tuesday and continues through Saturday in Anaheim, Calif. Those students were Brooke Snead, Ashlin Webster, Ryan Anderson, Sawyer Brown, Melissa Ramirez, Ana Gomez, Bria Cobbs and Shawn’e Edwards. Hardison used Snead and Webster as an example of the kinds of projects students work on through DECA, which stands for Distributive Education Clubs of America. Ashlin said her team worked on a fashion merchandising promotional plan, but wanted their project to be different from the competition. Taking both the current economy and their own experience as fashion-conscious young people into account, they decided to create a promotional plan centered around a consignment shop in Richmond’s West End. Baggio, located in Gayton Crossing, offers designer duds at discount prices. “Everyone wants to be able to afford DECA page 4

Triad to host seniors BY JODI DEAL Regional Reporter

eniors will soon get a chance to have breakfast, visit with friends, learn about how to get valuable services like insurance and housing, drop off unwanted medications, and boogey to oldies – all in one place on one day. Chesterfield Triad’s 15th annual Senior Day will kick off at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 1, at Victory Tabernacle Church at 11700 Genito Road in Midlothian. This year’s theme is “Let The Good Times Roll,” senior advocate Debbie Leidheiser said. While the event’s theme changes from year to year, its popular format remains pretty much the same: Vendors open and a free continental breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. Next up, a color guard will present the flag and an invocation and welcome ceremony will begin at 9:15 a.m. Speakers will include Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chairman Dorothy Jaeckle and heads of the county’s police, fire and sheriff’s departments. At 10 a.m., a presentation called “The Psychology of a Scam: Learning to Spot Persuasion Tactics” will be offered by Thomas Gallager, president of the region’s Better Business Bureau. Once the presentation is through, festivities will continue. Music will be provided by Freddy C. and the Happy Days Band, and door prizes will be given to attendees. Vendors will close and the events will wind down at 12:45 p.m. “It’s a huge day,” said Leidheiser. “Depending on the weather, we get anywhere from 800 to 1,000 people.” Seniors come in groups from retirement communities, visit on their own, come with a friend or bring along a caregiver, Leidheiser said.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MANCHESTER HIGH SCHOOL

Manchester students proudly display their DECA, or Distributive Education Clubs of America, honors at a recent DECA state conference. Many students from the Manchester team took top honors.

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Midlothian students ‘hang out’ with Cantor allotted $100,000 in pretend money to invest in the stock tudents in Stephen market as they see fit, then Hayward’s Midlothian judged on their overall equity High School econom- ranking. ics class may not have Midlothian’s team is ranked actually hung out in the flesh number one in Virginia, and, with U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor, R- the last time their teacher 7, but – thanks to technology checked, 16th in the nation. – they recently got some face When Hayward realized his time with him. students were tops in the state, Thanks to Google Hangout, he contacted Cantor’s office to a video conferencing applica- see if he would interact with tion, 22 students participated them. on April 11 in a class discusA busy schedule in Washsion moderated by student ington, D.C., kept the conJonathan Holland with the gressman from visiting in perHouse Majority Leader and son, but technology bridged chat about the economy. the gap. Hayward explained that Despite a bit of difficulty Holland and classmates Ryan connecting, the class was Slope and Alex Broyles, all finally able to establish both of whom participated in the audio and video links with hangout, are among a group Cantor from Hayward’s iPad. of students are taking part in After a brief introduction a stock market investing game and explanation of his role in called the Capitol Hill Chalthe nation’s economy through lenge, in which students are his job in the U.S. House BY JODI DEAL

Regional Reporter

of Representatives, Cantor opened the discussion for questions from the class. “The budget came out the day before the conference,” Hayward said. “Congressman Cantor explained what some of the steps are that happen next, as far as negotiations.” Students’ interest was particularly piqued when Cantor answered questions about the possibility of the minimum wage rising, and what is taken into account as Congress debates such matters. Cantor encouraged the students, who are all juniors and seniors, to keep studying economics and finance, Hayward said. “He wished everyone luck in the last few weeks of the competition,” Hayward said. Although the hangout was brief, Hayward said he thought PHOTO PROVIDED BY U.S. REP. ERIC CANTOR’S OFFICE it was a great experience for U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor, R-7, participated in a virtual “hangout” with students from Midlothian High School on April 11. the students.

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Militia Muster and FeedMore recognizes Colonial Life slated volunteer Tom Weir ers will be immediately familiar to modern audiences. ilitary drills and mirthful “We tend to think of the 17th century as a children’s games will be the time devoid of games, but there were many highlights of the upcoming more games in colonial times than there are Militia Muster and Colonial now given that we are in a computer and Life event, set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Satur- technology-(focused) culture today,” Pagano day, April 27, at Henricus Historical Park. said. “Children had many games, some of John Pagano, historical interpretation su- which we still see in different forms today, pervisor at Henricus Historical Park, which is especially with inside or table games.” located at 251 Henricus Park Road in Chester, Since mass production did not exist durexplained the history of musters and how ing colonial times, Pagano said, many people those groups once protected English colonies. made their own playthings, such as balls, “Following the bloodshed during the Vir- boards and pieces. ginia Indian Offensive “The simple games of 1622, English coloinvolved very little nists seriously began to material, sometimes regulate how to remain only wood, rope, tools trained and ready for or cloth,” Pagano said. war,” Pagano said. “The “Some games could colony mandated that be made at home, and all free men and their finer pieces for games male servants meet such as chess were and demonstrate (that) made professionally they kept weapons, by craftsmen.” gunpowder and amWhile the physimunition. cal games played on “This involved a Saturday won’t require monthly, yearly or youth to be at a certain seasonal ritual where fitness level, those all the families would pastimes will require meet on the muster a measure of physical site, and once the men exertion. For instance, trained on muskets to the hammer throw “pass muster,” the comcan only be perPHOTO BY JAMES A BYRD JR. munity would then eat, formed by children drink and be merry. For Historical interpreters will demonstrate who are 7 to 14 years colonial life during the April 27 event. the years when warfare old. was not feared, these “Many colonial games were physically events became big social events, much like a demanding by today’s standards,” Pagano fire department barbecue today.” said. “At our event, we will allow visitors to During the Militia Muster portion, the participate in games common to the 1620s, musters will happen inside the walls of Hen- which may leave people physically drained.” ricus Fort at 11 a.m. and at 3 p.m., and each The event will allow visitors to not only will last approximately 30 minutes. Pagano learn about history, but also enjoy recreation said staff members will fire the muskets, but outside. during the musters, all males from ages 16 to “The event portrays what brought unity 60 who attend will be expected to stand in to the community in the 1620s,” Pagano said. a line and be inspected in keeping with the “Colonial musters made sure people were historical theme. Then, onlookers will watch the matchlock safe, allowed people to meet new neighbors and participate in recreational activity, much musket loading and firing drills. Attendees in the same way we do in public parks today.” shouldn’t worry about safety since the ser“This event will show that people had fun, geant of the fort will oversee the firings. even in the most brutal times. It will be one During the Colonial Life portion of the event, historical interpreters dressed in period of our most interactive and fun events of the last several years – ideal for people who like clothing will operate a variety of games, games and challenges," Pagano said. ranging from blind man’s bluff to quoits The event is free for Henricus Foundation to tug-of-war. More than a dozen pastimes children enjoyed during colonial times will be patrons, $8 for adults and $6 for children ages recreated during the event. Simple diversions 3 to 12. For more information, visit www. henricus.org. such as backgammon, bowling and check-

BY KOREY HUGHES

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Special Correspondent

s part of National Volunteer Week, April 21 through April 27, FeedMore, a regional hunger relief organization, is highlighting a handful of the thousands of individuals who donate their time to hunger-relief efforts in Central Virginia. One such volunteer is Tom Weir of Midlothian. “I do it because it makes me feel good,” Weir said. “There’s no question about it.” Weir started volunteering at FeedMore in 2009 when he worked at Genworth and was a member of their corporate volunteer group. After he retired, he returned to volunteer regularly for all three FeedMore programs – the Central Virginia Food Bank, the Community Kitchen and Meals on Wheels. “I really can’t think of a more worthwhile volunteer experience than to help feed people and prevent hunger in my community,” Weir said. He works in the Food Bank Distribution Center sorting food donations, in the Community Kitchen preparing and packaging meals for Meals on Wheels, and as a delivery route driver to homebound neighbors who

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At first glance, you wouldn’t think Brett Hampton and William “Buddy” Strasser would have much in common. Brett is 15 years old, and Buddy is 66. Buddy loves swimming; Brett doesn’t. But both enjoy attending Camp Baker overnight for a week or two during the summer. Part of The Greater Richmond ARC, Camp Baker is a 22-acre wooded retreat providing activities and fun for individuals with developmental disabilities ages 5 and up. Regular activities at camp include swimming in Camp Baker’s staffsupervised pool,horseback riding, arts and Buddy

Paranormal tour planned CONTRIBUTED REPORT

re you ready to get paranormal? Spirited History, a group of paranormal investigators whose mission is to bring attention to historic sites with a spirited past from around the United States, will offer a Courthouse Green Paranormal Tour from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Historic 1892 Jail, located at 6819 Mimms Loop. Participation in the tour costs $20 per person, and is for ages 8 and up only. Children

TRIAD from page 1

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHESTERFIELD COUNTY SENIOR ADVOCATE

In this photo from a previous Triad Senior Day, Jon Donnelly of Medical Reserve Corp talks with a participant at the event. This year’s Senior Day is set for Wednesday, May 1.

crafts, and nature walks. There’s also a weekly talent show, during which Brett, who is diagnosed with autism and a mild intellectual disability, brought down the house last year by concluding his song with Elvis’ signature, “Thank you. Thank you very much.” Camp Baker also gives family caregivers the peace of mind “to know that my child is being cared for and loved,” added Brett’s mom Mary. “The most important thing about Camp Baker is that Buddy loves it,” his sister Barbara said. “It is a very great source of enjoyment to him.” “If Buddy didn’t have Camp Baker, it would be catastrophic. It is that important.” Overnight camp sessions for ages 18 and up this sum-

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mer will be offered June 16 through June 21, June 23 through June 28, June Brett 30 through July 5, July 7 through July 12, July 14 through July 19, July 21 through July 26 and July 28 through August 2. Camp sessions for young people aged 5 to 17 are set for Aug. 4 through Aug. 9 and Aug. 11 through 16. Cost per session is $800 or 120 Medicaid waiver respite hours. Camp Baker also provides programs year-round and a day camp during the summer. For more information, call 804-748-4789 or visit www. richmondarc.org

None of the vendors sell goods – they’re all there to share information. Veterans’ groups, insurance providers, housing providers, adult day care services and county government departments are available to talk with seniors about what they have to offer to make their lives easier and more convenient. This year, about 65 vendors will be set up. The Chesterfield County Police Department will host a medication take-back, Leidheiser noted. Seniors often have extra medication around, either because they no longer need a prescription, the medicine has expired, or someone in the household who once needed the medication has passed away. Having a safe way to dispose of medicine provides comfort, Leidheiser added. In fact, for Leidheiser, seeing the practical and fun elements of the event help seniors is the best part of the day. “If you’re taking care of somebody and can get all of the info at one place instead of making a zillion phone calls,” Leidheiser said. The same goes for information attendees can use to help themselves. “It’s a lot of information in one place that can help with decisions.” For more information, call 804-768-7878.

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must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is in partnership with the Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia and Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation. For details, call Bryan Truzzie, 804-7514946 or e-mail truzzieb@chesterfield.gov. Reservations can be made by visiting the Chesterfield Historical Society’s website at www.chesterfieldhistory.com via PayPal. Spirited History can be heard live every Friday night at 9 p.m. on www.para-X.com. Website: www.spiritedhistory.com.

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receive meal service from Meals on Wheels. “I always take away much more than I can ever give when I volunteer at FeedMore,” says Weir. To learn more about FeedMore volunteer opportunities, go to feedmore.org/volunteer. Last year, 1,705 individuals and 482 groups contributed 139,482 volunteer hours to FeedMore.

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Volunteer work has earned Tom Weir honors.

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Argent presents donation

Castelvecchi named top health teacher

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

D PHOTO PROVIDED BY ARGENT CREDIT UNION

Jean Russell of the Lucy Corr Foundation accepts a $500 donation from and Candice Thompson-Brown of Argent Credit Union.

basic personal finance concepts to consumers. The Foundation’s mission is to “build a better tomorrow by strengthening the world around us today.” Founded in 1956, Argent Credit Union is headquartered in Chester and has four locations throughout the Richmond metro area.

ticket sales list, it picked the Lucy Corr Foundation as the beneficiary of its prize. Launched in 2009, the Credit Unions Care Foundation of Virginia believes in furthering credit unions’ social mission by supporting charitable organizations, community groups and disaster relief activities, and the teaching of

Family law 'Dracula' comes to stage practice now open CONTRIBUTED REPORT

ong-time Chesterfield resident David DeFazio recently established a family law practice known as The DeFazio Law Firm in Richmond. DeFazio currently sits on the executive committee of the Chesterfield Bar Association and is its immediate past president. Virginia Lawyers’ Weekly named DeFazio a Leader of the Law in 2012. DeFazio attended Meadowbrook High School in Chesterfield and graduated from the United States Army Military Police School. He went on to attend HampdenSydney College and later the T.C. Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond. After law school, DeFAZIO DeFazio completed an internship at the Chesterfield County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office. He went on to work at several law firms including Collins & DeFazio; Jenkins, Block & Associates; Law Office of Rod Sager; and Barnes & Diehl. “It is a privilege to serve the Richmond community and offer my expertise in family law,” said David DeFazio. “Helping people through difficult life situations makes my work fulfilling.” For more information about The DeFazio Law firm, visit www.defaziolawfirm. com or call 804-794-4900.

ee Castelvecchi of Elizabeth Davis Middle School has been named the nation’s top health teacher. On Friday, April 26, in Charlotte, N.C., she will receive the Health Education Professional of the Year School K-12 Award from the American Association for Health Education. Castelvecchi teaches P.E. and health and has been with Chesterfield County Public Schools for 10 years. Her path to becoming the nation’s top health teacher began when she was named Virginia’s top health teacher. She then was selected as

one of six regional winners, and finally was chosen from those six winners as Health Education Professional of the Year. Also a clinical faculty member at VCU, Castelvecchi has been a member of and served on committees of numerous professional associations including the Virginia Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, the American Alliance of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, the National Association for Sports and Physical Education and the American Association for Health Education. Castelvecchi is the third teacher in Chesterfield County Public Schools to win the nation’s top award.

DEE CASTELVECCHI

Other winners were Bailey Bridge Middle’s Misti Wajciechowski, who won in 2010, and Carver Middle’s Kay Schiltz, who won in 2006.

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Manchester High School students will offer up a bonechilling version of "Dracula" today through Saturday, April 25-27. CONTRIBUTED REPORT

If you’re feeling like a thrill, Manchester High’s Lancer Theatre Company has a horrific offering right up your alley. The student actors are bringing back the original scary villain, Dracula, in all of his frightening glory at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27. Cary Nothnagel, the show’s director and theatre company sponsor chose the William McNulty version of the play after reading several Dracula adaptations. McNulty’s show is based on the novel by Bram Stoker. It presents Dracula as a cold-blooded monster rather than offering a more romantic depiction of him as a misunderstood creature. “This is an action-packed script complete with combat and special effects,” Nothnagel said. He aims to have the audience leaping out of their seats with fright. The Lancer Theatre Company promises special effects and a dynamite cast that will keep audience members on the edge of their seats as they confront a creature that has influenced countless films, novels

and now television programs. In fact, the fangs used in this production were purchased from the Foothills Creations, LTD, the same company that makes the fangs for the HBO series True Blood. A multidimensional and multi-level set was designed by graduating senior Fox Yates with lighting by senior Mikey Stough. The show moves fast as it tackles the powerful plot of the novel in less than two hours. Due the graphic nature of the production, it is not recommended for elementary aged children or adults who are not horror movie fans. The playwright got his inspiration from his own inner 12-year-old who remembered being told not to watch horror movies while his parents were away. The production will haunt you long after you see it. Indulge your inner 12-yearold and prepare yourself for a bone-chilling evening. Tickets for the show are available through seatyourself. biz/manchesterhs and at the door on show evenings. The ticket booth will open by 6 p.m. on show nights. The school is located at 12601 Bailey Bridge Road in Midlothian.

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rgent Credit Union in Chester recently chose the Lucy Corr Foundation to receive a special donation. The local credit union office won the opportunity to support a local charity through its participation in a charity car raffle. Through that raffle, partners of the Credit Unions Care Foundation, including Argent raised $23,000. A portion of the proceeds was donated to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in Virginia, while the remaining funds went to support financial education, disaster relief and local charity initiatives. Participating credit unions that sold the most tickets during each month of the four-month car raffle got an opportunity to donate $500 to a charity of their choice. When Argent topped the

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GUEST COLUMNIST

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.

Big helmet, big hearts BY JIM RIDOLPHI SpeciaL Correspondent

About once a month, I get together with area colleagues for breakfast at a local eatery. Our conversations often center on new camera or computer equipment, interesting news and other business related topics, but the conversation always seems to evolve to our families, mostly our kids. Last week as we stuffed giant pastries into our mouths, I mentioned that Jack and I had been playing baseball, and, of course, I bragged about his slugging skills. One of my friends questioned if that was good for Jack considering his condition of muscular dystrophy. It’s a fair question. Jack’s legs don’t work as good as they used to, and running the bases is difficult. But, he loves the game and he gets the same smile on his face with that big hit as any and every other 8-year-old boy. I explained that Jack will never hit the gamewinning home run or score the game’s last-second touchdown, so I measure his victories in smaller doses. To me, each pass is a touchdown and each hit is a homer. They all agreed and our conversation moved on. I thought about that conversation as I sat in the auditorium of Goochland High School this past weekend. Jack, Emma, Sophie and I attended a banquet honoring the Goochland Bulldogs as state champions in football. The team was presented with championship rings and it was a night of general celebration for a great accomplishment that capped a magical season. Goochland coach Joe Fowler talked about what it takes to win a state championship: the tenacity, character and dedication required to defeat all the odds. He talked about toughness . . . and then he talked about Jack. He told the story of a team that adopted a young boy, and allowed their legs to provide the speed he will never have. They ran because he could not, and fought when the chips

23112 April 10

were down knowing that he couldn’t. “We adopted Jack, and Jack adopted us,” Fowler said. I stood and watched as the coach presented Jack with an authentic Bulldog helmet and football, both signed by every member of the championship squad. As Jack accepted a special t-shirt reserved for team members only, he received a standing ovation from the packed auditorium. I fought back tears. But it was the look in the eyes of that group of champions that moved me the most. They get it. This group of young men who have achieved so much said it all with the look in their eyes as they stood and applauded their smallest teammate. The 2012 Goochland Bulldogs are, collectively, that tall strong athlete who never grows too big to bend in order to reach out to a child. With all the accolades, this group of Bulldogs knows clearly there are bigger battles in life than on a football field, and they reached out to address one of them. I can never express my true feelings regarding the kindness, compassion and support the Goochland community has provided since we learned of Jack’s illness. Thank you seems so inadequate for such a valiant effort. For the past two years, Fowler’s team has been one of the few high school programs in the area who participate in the Coach to Cure program, a nonprofit event to raise awareness and funds to fight Duchenes Muscular Dystrophy. I urge all area high school football coaches to get involved with Coach to Cure. It’s a lesson that leaves a lasting impression on the players who participate and the kids it helps, and provides funds for research for a disease that robs young boys of their mobility, and, eventually, their lives. Those efforts by an amazing and caring group of athletic boosters, coaches, players, students and Goochland residents coupled with millions of others across the nation have resulted in funds that fuel the effort to find a cure. Again, my thanks fall short.

9600 block of Bending Oak Drive A report was issued of fraud by flim flam, with money stolen, at a residence.

April 15 4100 block of Mallard Landing Circle A known suspect forced entry into a victim’s apartment and assaulted the victim. 12100 block of Brookview Drive A front door was pried open at a residence, causing the alarm to activate. However, no entry was gained.

23113 April 12 100 block of E Hundred Road Unknown suspect/s pried open a side door of a business and entered a shed on the property. Consumable goods and money were reported stolen.

April 15 13600 block of Kingsmill Road Unknown suspect/s pried an exterior garage door open, breaking the door frame. Once inside the garage, suspect/s pried open an interior door to the kitchen and were confronted by the victim’s dog. Suspect/s then left the residence.

23114 April 15 300 block of Old Otterdale Road Vandalism of a mailbox was reported at a residence.

23224 April 12 2600 block of Lancers Blvd. Unknown suspect/s stole a boat trailer from outside a residence.

23236 April 13 200 block of Courthouse Road A damaged vehicle that cannot be driven was reported stolen from a residence.

Rotary Club of James River helps out local non-profit

23237 April 12 2500 block of Marina Drive Unknown suspect/s entered a vacant apartment via an unlocked rear sliding door and vandalized the interior, causing extensive damage.

April 15 2200 block of Marina Drive A victim was robbed of firearms and miscellaneous property. Responding officers located the suspect’s vehicle and apprehended all suspects involved in the crime.

23234 April 13 4000 block of Chippendale Drive Two unknown, armed suspects rushed into a residence, bound victims and stole items. 5500 S Prestonwood Ave Vandalism of a mailbox was reported at a residence.

April 15 5200 block of Shady Lane Suspects were observed at a vacant residence attempting to force entry through the front door. Suspects were later seen leaving the residence with property that had been taken from a shed. The master lock to the shed had been cut.

23836 April 11 14500 block of Sycamore Springs Court Unknown suspect/s stole miscellaneous parts from a vehicle parked outside of a residence.

April 15 1000 block of W. Harbour Drive Unknown suspect/s entered a victim’s unlocked residence and removed consumable goods.

be shoes, the second night dresses. During those nights, those items Chanel at a Coach price, to be able would be 25 percent off.” Judges at the state competition to have designer fashion no matter talked about how remarkably low what your budget is,” Ashlin said. the budget was for their weeklong The girls concocted a plan to marketing plan – just $1,500, and raise awareness for the store by mimicking Fashion Week festivities that includes everything from that are held in major cities around advertising and fliers to cookies and punch. The girls even contacted the world each September. local television and radio stations During Fashion Week, the to see if they would be willing to girls proposed a variety of special events at Baggio, including fashion mention the local festivities on the news. shows, trunk shows, drawings for “DECA is really the reason I merchandise and fashion advice, refreshments and discounts offered found my passion for merchandisto attendees who brought a friend. ing,” Ashlin said. “Going to competition really gave me a realistic idea “Every night, we would have of how I could make this a career something going on in the store,” Ashlin said. “The first night would and make this my life.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ROTARY CLUB OF JAMES RIVER

The Rotary Club of James River recently helped set up New 2 U Sports, a project of the Richmond Entrepreneur’s Assistance program. Shown are, from left, front row, Rotary president Cindy Hodges, her son Robbie Layne, Richard Cunningham and Chris Ayers, and, back row, Bob Preston, Andrew Owens and Bruno Gora.

County high schools and from the community. The Rotary club, through a grant from the local Rotary district, purchased shelving and other items needed for the New 2 U Sports showroom, assembled and set up their shipment and participated in a used sporting equipment drive by taking boxes to community donation sites. The drive continues, thanks to many local businesses and organiza-

100 block of E Hundred Road An unknown, armed suspect entered a store and assaulted the clerk. The suspect stole money from the registers and fled the scene on foot.

DECA from page 1

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

he Rotary Club of James River recently assisted the Richmond Entrepreneur’s Assistance Program, also known as REAP, with the set-up of their newest business, “New 2 U Sports.” People with intellectual disabilities receive educational support through high school. After that, services stop and many are left without anything meaningful to do with their lives. REAP is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created for comprehensive job training and meaningful employment for people with disabilities. New 2 U Sports and Heart to Heart Gift Baskets & Packaging, another REAP subsidiary, follow a social enterprise model that allows people with disabilities to reach their highest level of ability so they can find employment, either with REAP or elsewhere in the community. REAP began last year with 26 participants going through the training program. This year, the program has grown to include 100 students. Participants come from Northstar Academy, Richmond City, Henrico and Chesterfield

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WINNERS

tions that are also lending helping hands. Cindy Hodges, president of The Rotary Club of James River, has a son with Down syndrome working at New 2 U Sports. Other Rotarians who participated in the project are Carl Duffey, Andrew Owens, Bob Preston, Richard Cunningham, Bruno Gora, and Chris Ayers. For more information visit www.reapva.org

Manchester High School winners at the state DECA competition included: Bria Cobbs and Shawn’e Edwards, third place state runner-up in Sports and Entertainment Team Decision-Making; Brooke Snead and Ashlin Webster, first place in project presentation and third place state runner-up in Fashion Merchandising Promotional Plan; Ryan Anderson and Sawyer Brown, fourth place state runner-up in Creative Marketing Plan; Ana Gomez, first place in a role-playing event for Apparel and Accessories and state finalist; and Melissa Ramirez, state finalist in International Business Plan.

El Día de los Niños/El Día de los Libros set at Meadowdale CONTRIBUTED REPORT

n Spanish, it's El Día de los Niños/El Día de los Libros. In English, it's The Children's Day/Day of the Books. In Chesterfield County, it’s a free family festival in English and Spanish, set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 27 at Meadowdale Library, which is located at 4301 Meadowdale Boulevard in North Chesterfield. Offered by the Chesterfield County Public Library, the event aims to foster children’s literacy through a celebration of Latin American arts and culture. This year’s Día will feature a

flamenco performance by Juanita and Luis Gallardo of Flamenco Gallardo, an exciting demonstration of Brazilian martial arts by Capoeira Resistencia of Bon Air, a salsa dance show by the Cosby High School International Dance Club and music by DJ Orangel Bustamante. Martin Gonzales of La Milpa Restaurant will bring a mobile restaurant and offer demonstrations of how to prepare Mexican dishes with fresh, healthy ingredients. He also will bring a display of Mexican arts and crafts, including intricate popotillo mosaics that he creates

COM

Joy Monopoli Birgit Weeks Brian French Melody Kinser Jodi Deal Stephanie Childrey Cindy Grant

cardboard drums and guitars, and Aztec yarn “paintings.” And we ll have a couple of piñatas to break open, too. The library will offer a special bilingual story time in Spanish and English. Children will get a free book for participating, and adults can get a free children’s book for signing up for a library card. The library has 800 children’s books, in both Spanish and English, provided by the Children’s Museum of Richmond Children’s Book Bank and the Friends of Chesterfield County

Public Library. The Richmond Kickers’ inflatable soccer goal game will also be on hand. If schedules permit, the soccer team and Kickeroo, their mascot, may make an appearance. Cat Dillingham, the ESOL Coordinator for Chesterfield County Public Schools Adult Education will be on site to raise awareness about classes and services provided by the English for Speakers of Other Languages Program. For more information visit the library’s website, library.chesterfield.gov, or call 804-751-CCPL.

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using thousands of pieces of fine, colored straw. La Michoacana of Chester will sell tropical ice cream treats. Children can paint with artist Jorge Diaz at the Virginia Center for Latin American Art's Galeria Movimiento bus, which will also feature a box drum craft and take children on parades around the library with giant carnival puppets. Throughout the day, the library will offer children’s arts and craft activities, including Mexican paper flowers, making imaginative animal and lucha libre wrestler masks,

Powhatan, Va 23114 Office: (804) 379-6451 Fax: (804) 379-6215 Mail: PO Box 10 Powhatan, VA 23139

jmonopoli@worldmediaenterprise.com bweeks@powhatantoday.com bfrench@powhatantoday.com editor@midlothianexchange.com jdeal@mechlocal.com schildrey@mechlocal.com cgrant@mechlocal.com

(804) 746-1235 x 14 (804) 598-4305 x 14 (804) 598-4305 x 16 (804) 746-1235 x 22 (804) 746-1235 x 29 (804) 598-4305 x 11 (804) 746-1235 x 16

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APRIL 25, 2013 || 5

YOUR WORLD || TRAVEL

STUFF TO DO E-mail your event to editor@midlothianexchange.com Subject line: EVENT located at 10661 Duryea Players at 7:30 p.m. at Drive in Richmond. For Huguenot United Methodist Manchester High’s Lancer reservations, call 804-272Church, located at 10661 Theatre Company will 6820. Duryea Drive in Richmond. stage Dracula, based on For reservations, call 804the Bram Stoker novel, at 272-6820. FRIDAY, APRIL 26 7 p.m. Due the graphic nature of the show, it Manchester High’s Lancer SATURDAY, APRIL 27 is not recommended Theatre Company will for elementary aged stage Dracula, based on Southminster Presbyterian children. Tickets cost the Bram Stoker novel, at Church will host a $8 for adults and $6 for 7 p.m. Due the graphic community festival 10 a.m. students, and can be nature of the show, it is to 2 p.m. Festivities will purchased at seatyourself. not recommended for go on rain or shine at the biz/manchesterhs or at the young children. Tickets church, located at 7500 door. The ticket booth will cost $8 for adults and $6 Hull Street Road, next to open by 6 p.m. for students, and can be the Manchester YMCA. purchased at seatyourself. The event will include James River High School biz/manchesterhs or at the picnic food, activities presents “Peter Pan: the door. The ticket booth will for children and adults, boy who would not grow open by 6 p.m. carnival games, arts and up” at 7 p.m. This is a play crafts, music, a blood drive for all ages. Tickets cost James River High School and door prizes. For more $5 for students and $7 for presents “Peter Pan: the boy information, visit www. adults. The ticket office who would not grow up” at southpreschurch.org or will open at 6 p.m. and the 7 p.m. This is a play for all call 804-276-1749. doors will open for seating ages. Tickets cost $5 for at 6:30 p.m. The school students and $7 for adults. Manchester High’s Lancer is located at 3700 James The ticket office will open Theatre Company will River Road in Midlothian. at 6 p.m. and the doors will stage Dracula, based on For more information, call open for seating at 6:30 the Bram Stoker novel, at Donna Wilson at 804-647p.m. The school is located 7 p.m. Due the graphic 2052. at 3700 James River Road nature of the show, it is in Midlothian. For more not recommended for Arsenic and Old Lace information, call Donna young children. Tickets will be presented by the Wilson at 804-647-2052. cost $8 for adults and $6 Huguenot Community for students, and can be Players at 7:30 p.m. Arsenic and Old Lace purchased at seatyourself. at Huguenot United will be presented by the biz/manchesterhs or at the Methodist Church, Huguenot Community door. The ticket booth will

THURSDAY, APRIL 25

open by 6 p.m.

Players at 7:30 p.m. at Huguenot United Methodist Church, located at 10661 Duryea Drive in Richmond. For reservations, call 804-2726820.

James River High School presents “Peter Pan: the boy who would not grow up” 7 p.m. This is a play for all ages. Tickets cost $5 for students and $7 for adults. The ticket office will open SUNDAY, APRIL 28 at 6 p.m. and the doors will Explore the Outdoors, a open for seating at 6:30 family event, will be held p.m. The school is located 1 to 5 p.m. at Huguenot at 3700 James River Road Park and the WCVE in Midlothian. For more studios. Families can information, contact Donna enjoy nature walks, handsWilson at 804-647-2052. on science and nature activities, scavenger The Chesterfield County hunts, geocaching, Police Department, in animals, archery and partnership with the other free activities. Drug Enforcement The event is presented Administration and SAFE, by the Chesterfield Chesterfield’s substance County Department of abuse prevention Parks and Recreation, coalition, invites residents Science Matters and to safely dispose of The Community Idea expired and unneeded Stations with support prescription and overfrom PBS Kids and the the-counter drugs at a National Recreation Drug Take-Back event and Park Association. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Parking is available at the Eanes-Pittman Public Huguenot Park, which Safety Training Center at is at 10901 Robious 6610 Public Safety Way in Road. WCVE Studios are Chesterfield. located at 23 Sesame St. For more information, Arsenic and Old Lace visit ideastations.org/ will be presented by the exploreoutdoors, or call Huguenot Community 804-748-1129.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHESTERFIELD COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

Chesterfield Community High School teacher Laurie Messer was eager to attend the recent Richmond Forum at University of Richmond to hear author Sherman Alexie speak. Messer, shown here with Alexie, is teaching his book, The Absolutely True Diary of a Parttime Indian. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian, a National Book Award winner, tells the story of Junior, a want-to-be cartoonist who leaves an Indian reservation to attend school in a small farm town. When he gets there, he is the only Indian, except, of course. for the school mascot. Students have enjoyed reading about Junior’s journey. Messer said she was excited to get to meet the author, who autographed her copy of the book and another for the school library.

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CLUES ACROSS 1. Maple genus 5. Not what it seems 9. Overly masculine 14. X2 = Vaitape’s island 15. Source of the Blue Nile 16. A way to dislike intensely 17. Copyread 18. Goidelic language of Ireland 19. TV advertising awards 20. Out of stock: purchase later 23. Ribbon belts 24. They __ 25. Winged goddess of the dawn 26. OK to go out with 31. Symposiums 35. Bewail 36. The den of wild animals 37. Go inside of 38. Result or consequence 41. Lolium temulentum 43. Wrote a short composition 45. Occupy a seat 46. Grand __, vintage

47. Paved outdoor spaces 51. 1954 Milland/ Hitchcock movie 56. South American racoon 57. Cold (Spanish) 58. About aviation 59. Deliberate destructive burning 60. Any place of bliss or delight 61. Largest river in Transcaucasia 62. Binding 63. A man of high rank 64. Islamic leader CLUES DOWN 1. Urge and help on 2. Musical endings 3. Writer Jong 4. Places in rank order 5. 2 photos = 3D 6. Annoy persistently 7. Am. Natl. Standards Inst. 8. Female Dionysus cult members 9. Panga knife 10. Having sufficient skill 11. Currently fashionable 12. Fishing barb 13. Many not ands

21. Polite interruption sound 22. Grouch 27. Arabian chieftain (var. sp.) 28. W. German capital 1949-90 29. Having died recently 30. Organic compound 31. Take to one’s heels 32. Klutzes 33. Jazz ostinato 34. Carbamide 39. Bike transportation 40. Length of office 41. April’s birthstone 42. Tip of Aleutian Islands 44. Army luggage bag 45. More nimble 48. A citizen of Iraq (alt. sp.) 49. Greek or Roman performance hall 50. Junipero __, Spanish priest 51. Walleye 52. Moldavian capital 1565-1859 53. Egyptian sun god 54. Latin word for order 55. Wander 56. Whip with 9 knotted cords

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 It will take fast action for you to get something accomplished this week, Taurus. If you blink, the opportunity may pass you by, so get moving. GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 You may need to reconsider your purchasing power, Gemini. Your finances may not be what they seem at this moment, and you could need to play things conservatively.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, there are a few obstacles you will have to overcome before you can move on to something more enjoyable this week. Make the hard work a priority and the rest will follow. LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Maintain the status quo this week, Leo. You may be tempted to do things differently, but going with the flow and not rocking the boat is the best approach this week. VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Flexibility will be the key this week, Virgo. If you are able to bend, then you will be much more successful than if you are rigid in your opinions and actions.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, if you find you have been falling behind on things or simply cannot seem to get organized, then it’s time to reconsider your approach. SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, when party planning is put into your hands, you are right in your element as a natural leader. You are bound to have all of the details perfect. SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Someone could require a pep talk this week, and you are the person for the job, Sagittarius. Figure out ways to downplay any struggles and point out all that this person has accomplished.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 You may find a turnaround in your financial situation has finally arrived, Capricorn. Just don’t spend all of that newfound money in one place. Put some into an account for later. AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you may need someone to light a fire under you this week. Welcome this effort because once you get going you will be able to accomplish anything. PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, it may be a challenge to balance work and home life responsibilities this week. Aim for a 60/40 split of requirements.

THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, your domestic side will come out this week when you decide to play host or hostess to friends or family. You may reveal some surprising skills in the kitchen.

6 || APRIL 25, 2013

EXERCISE

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SPORTS || FITNESS

Above, with race namesake Denny Hamlin sidelined due to injury, driver Eddie Johnson will most likely be the only Midlothian representative in this year’s Showdown. At left, 15-year-old Gray Gaulding out of Colonial Heights will make his debut at RIR on Thursday. Gaulding, who became the youngest driver to finish in the top three at Daytona, will drive both the K&N Pro Series race and the Short Track Showdown.

PHOTOS BY CHARLIE LEFFLER

Disappointed with his recent runs in the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown, Kyle Busch, spent a year building his own car for this year’s race.

EVEN WITHOUT HAMLIN, showdown means a lot to local racers to health concerns. “It’s unfortunate that Denny can’t run, he Denny Hamlin Short Track he’s a good friend of mine and I hated that Showdown will be a little different he can’t run with us, he’s a lot of fun to race this year. with,” said Mechanicsville’s Doug Godsey, who On Thursday night, when the has run in the charity event every year since Late Model cars head out onto Richmond In- it’s inception. “I grew up racing with Denny ternational Raceway for the third straight year, down at Southhampton Motor Speedway and there will be a noticeable absence: namesake Southside Speedway. We’d race together every Denny Hamlin. Friday and Saturday night for years and it’s a Hamlin, who suffered a fractured vertebra shame that he can’t race with us, but he’s got in his lower back during an accident at Fonto take care of himself.” tana, will miss running in his own event due The 75-lap charity race serves as a fundBY CHARLIE LEFFLER Contributing Writer

raiser for the Denny Hamlin Cystic Fibrosis Research Lab at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU Health System. However, even without Hamlin the race will still boast a host of star power. NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch, Michael Waltrip, Reagan Smith, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Trevor Bayne have committed to run in the event along with an assortment of drivers from the Nationwide, Camping World Truck and K&N Pro Series circuits. “It’s just a fun little race to get to go out there and race with the best of the local Late

Model racers from across that area,” Busch said. “We always tend to put on a pretty nice show. So I always like that race.” Last week, Sprint Cup driver David Ragan surprised everyone by showing up at RIR for the Late Model practice session and also threw his hat into the ring. “I’ve always wanted to run, always had other commitments,” he said. “What Denny does with his foundation and the race here is a pretty neat deal. It raises a lot of money for a SHOWDOWN page 7

Last year, Swift Creek Elementary School raised nearly $5,000 to help purchase iPads and iPod Touches through the Great Gator 5K and Fun Run. This year’s event will get underway at 9 a.m. with the Kid’s Fun Run followed at 9:45 a.m. with the 5K on Saturday, April 27, at 13800 Genito Road in Midlothian. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY MEREDITH ROBINSON

Great Gator 5K, Fun Run to raise funds for technology with access to cutting-edge technology. “The idea came from the school and printers of all ages will take to the from parent volunteers who were mostly streets when the second annual PTA members that wanted to make a Great Gator 5K and Kid’s Fun Run positive impact on the school’s technology gets underway at Swift Creek Elneeds,” Williams said. “But, the race reached ementary School at 13800 Genito Road in out to the entire family, and it got everyMidlothian on Saturday, April 27. body involved in order to raise money for The Kid’s Fun Run will start at 9 a.m., technology in the school.” while the 5K will begin at 9:45 a.m. The race is mainly supported by runner Last year, the race raised about $5,000, entry fees and sponsor donations. Because which helped the school buy eight iPads and last year’s event was so successful, Williams eight iPod Touches with accessories for the said many of the original sponsors have student body. returned along with a few new ones. The event’s moniker comes from Swift The Fun Run will take place near the Creek Elementary School’s mascot, but race school’s baseball field and will include director Kim Williams said the concept was inspired by a desire to provide the students RUN page 7

BY KOREY HUGHES Contributing Writer

PHOTOS BY ANJIE HENLEY

Kelvin Marte, left, catcher; Jose Castro, utility; and Stibel Aleman-Saba, leftfielder; could be known as the Dominion Dominicans. The three are playing baseball for the James River High School Rapids. Their home country has become well known for attracting those with baseball prowess to the United States. Below, catcher Kelvin Marte has become an integral part of the school's success in baseball.

The Dominican Effect Trio brings hard-hitting talent of their Caribbean island to James River High

BY FRED JETER Contributing Writer

VCU Business Alumni Society hosts golf gathering April 26

ou can call them the Dominion Dominicans. If James River High is to vie for Dominion District honors, much will rely on a trio of talented teenagers from the Dominican Republic’s fertile baseball soil. Coach Pete Schumacher’s varsity lineup features leftfielder Stibel Aleman-Saba, catcher Kelvin Marte and versatile Jose Castro, all from the Spanish-speaking Caribbean island southeast of Cuba. Often they hit back-to-back-to-back – fifth, sixth and seventh – in Role Models Schumacher’s James River High potent attack off School’s Dominican Robious Road. baseball players grew up “What I like idolizing many of their about them country’s past and present big-league superstars. most is how Here are their “favorites:” hard they play Aleman-Saba: “Manny and how much Ramirez” (now playing in fun they seem Taiwan) to have,” said Castro: “Jose Reyes” Schumacher. (shortstop for Toronto Blue Jays) “Their Marte: “Carlos enthusiasm puts Santana” (Cleveland an extra bounce Indians catcher). in my step.” Aleman-Saba is a left-handed senior who moved with his family to the Richmond area in 2007 from the Dominican capital of Santo Domingo (population about 1.5 million). Castro, also from San Domingo, is a Rapids’ junior who immigrated to Virginia in 2011. From Bonao (population about 158,000), Marte is a senior who moved to this area in 2010.

BY KOREY HUGHES Contributing Writer

Castro and Marte study in James River’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program. Castro’s English is fast improving. Marte makes up for any English limitations during interviews with a movie star smile. The Dominicans speak Spanish among themselves and also at home with family. Aleman-Saba, clearly the group’s English spokesman, transferred this year from ESL to mainstream and intends to pursue baseball on the collegiate level. “When I came here, I didn’t know any English at all . . . not even how to say ‘Hi,’ ” Aleman-Saba said with a laugh. He wasn’t an instant success on the baseball diamond either. He was cut as a Rapids’ freshman, then made JVs his sophomore year. Now he places no ceiling on his future with bat and glove. “So many great players from Dominican,” he said. “I want to be like them. With hard work, it can happen.” DOMINICAN page 7

ountless business deals have been brokered on golf courses, so it’s somewhat fitting that local business leaders and Virginia Commonwealth University School of Business students and alumni will gather from noon to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, April 26, for the fourth annual Virginia Commonwealth University Business Alumni Society Golf Open. The fundraiser will be held at the Independence Golf Club at 600 Founders Bridge Boulevard in Midlothian. The Captain’s Choice golf outing will include 18 holes of golf along with lunch and a dinner reception where the attendees will network with one another. Frank Shortall, the event’s chairperson and the vice president of the VCU Business Alumni Society’s Board of Directors, said the organization consists of former students who have graduated from the school’s business programs. “The VCU Business Alumni Society is a network of alumni who have graduated from the School of Business with a certificate or a degree,” Shortall said. “And, many people who are members don’t even realize it because, once you graduate, you are a member.” Shortall also said the Golf Open is his organization’s primary annual fundraiser and that hosting a golf game just made

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANK SHORTALL

With the Virginia Commonwealth University Business Alumni Society preparing for its 2013 golf tournament, these scenes show the 2011 event.

sense given the sport’s popularity with business professionals. “A golf event is something that appeals to a lot of people in the business community,” Shortall said. “And, it seemed like a natural fit, because a lot of business has been done on the golf course.” The proceeds will benefit the Business Alumni Society’s scholarship fund, its Ram-to-Ram mentoring program and its GOLF page 7

MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM

RUN from 6 over-the-top obstacles such as hay bales, inflatables and tires that will add excitement to the course. First graders will do one lap, second and third graders will complete two laps, and fourth and fifth graders will finish three laps. According to Williams, the Fun Run will start first so the kids can be entertained before their parents embark on the lengthier race. Moms and dads should supervise

GOLF from 6 informational interview program through which students talk to business professionals to learn more about their real world experiences. “Last year, we were able to establish four new scholarships for students,” Shortall said. “And, we also have an informational interview

SHOWDOWN from 6 good cause so I set some time aside and I’m happy to be able to run this year.” The Short Track Showdown was originally run at Southside Speedway in Midlothian, not far from where Hamlin graduated from Manchester High School. The event moved to RIR three years ago when it outgrew the smaller venue. Now, ironically, with Hamlin out of the race, the only Midlothian representative in the event may be local driver Eddie Johnson. The long-time Southside stalwart also is running on one of the smallest budgets among the competition. “There’s not a lot of local guys that run the race anymore,” Johnson said. “It’s kind of sad because when Denny started out with it, it was more of a hometown group, but we’re still out there giving it the best we can. Being way under-financed makes it hard, but we try to do the best we can.” Not only is racing a drain on Johnson’s budget, but practicing puts its own dent in financing. “It’s not cheap to come out here and do anything so that’s why we’re still looking for sponsors,” Johnson said. “It gets harder and harder every

in the minor leagues. It’s been said that baseball players have surpassed sugar and coffee as the island’s primary exports. San Francisco pitching great Juan Marichal is in the Hall of Fame. Other bold-letter Dominicans (past and present) from an impossibly long list include Albert Pujols, Manny Ramirez, Jose Bautista, Sammy Sosa, David Ortiz, Raul Mondesi and Pedro Martinez. Then there were the Alou brothers (Felipe, Jesus and

Mateo), who on Sept. 15, 1963, made baseball history with San Francisco by becoming the first all-brother outfield. It’s an ongoing phenomenon, how an island of about 10 million produces more baseball stars than most of the U.S. American cities combined. Earlier this spring, the Dominican won the World Baseball Classic, earning global superiority. For years, Saturday Night Life comedian Garrett Morris played fictional Chico Escuela (New York Mets’ Dominican

shortstop) with catch phrase: “Baseball been berry, berry good to me!” Dominicans typically sign with big league clubs at age 17 or 18, sometimes with limited education. But not everyone can play pro baseball and it was prospects for higher education that lured the families of James River’s Dominicans to northwest Chesterfield. “Schools are poor in Dominican,” said AlemanSaba. “It’s all about baseball . . . from 6 to 6 (dawn to dark),” he said.

And what about schooling? “They don’t have to go,” he said, shrugging shoulders. Dominican educators would likely differ with that assessment. Still, James River’s islanders felt the need for a stronger classroom. They may or may not have pro potential, but they definitely have high school and college skills. It helps that, by the luck of the draw, they’ve joined one of Virginia’s elite high-school programs. James River won State AAA titles in 2007 and ’08 and is a contender every spring for

District and Region accolades. Once the Rapids’ season ends, the “Dominion Dominicans” will play this summer for the Powhatan Post 201 American League team, a combination of James River and Powhatan High School players. Aleman-Saba was asked what sets Dominicans apart as ballplayers. “Dominicans play harder, scrappier, always moving fast,” he said. Then, with a twinkle in his dark eyes, he added: “Dominicans play hungry . . . hungry for success.”

their youngsters during the Fun Run. “We did it because, last year, kids wanted to run both, so the children can have their fun first, and some of the walkers (at the 5K) might be out there for up to an hour,” Williams said. “So, we wanted parents to be able to see their kids and cheer them on and then be able to participate in the 5K.” The 5K follows a 3.1-mile course that begins and ends

at Swift Creek Elementary School. It will travel through the nearby Brandermill neighborhood. “Brandermill is not hilly by any means, but it’s not a perfectly flat course,” Williams said. “But, people are more than welcome to walk.” “I have run the course many times, and there’s no spot that I would be concerned about where people would not able to get up a hill. And, course marshals will also

be there to help – if necessary.” An after-party will get underway after the race ends, and it will keep the fun going throughout the afternoon. Special guests such as Nutzy the Flying Squirrel, the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team’s mascot, and the Chick-fil-A Cow will be on hand to greet children. A DJ will play family-friendly tunes. A raffle will give a few lucky kids the chance to toss

pies at their favorite school administrators. Williams said members of the local community should come out to support Swift Creek Elementary School during the multi-generational affair. “Well, not only are you supporting children who are living in your community, but it’s a fun event to do on a Saturday morning,” Williams said. “You get to enjoy the company of people in the

community, and it promotes fitness and fun for everyone.” Race day registration rates for the 5K are $35 for adults, $30 for children 12 and under and $15 for children to participate in the Kid’s Fun Run. On race day, registration will be limited to available space, and race t-shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information about the Great Gator 5K and Kid’s Fun Run, visit www.swiftcreek5K.com.

program that’s like a reverse interview where you have a student who will come out and interview someone who is already in the workforce, and that person will tell them the steps that they need to take to get that job.” Shortall said a portion of the funds raised will help the School of Business to host an

end-of-the-year cookout for more than 600 students. Members of the VCU golf team also will be on hand on Friday to lend their expertise to the players. Shortall said golf team members can take shots for participants on certain holes if they are willing to make a charitable donation. “The Business Alumni So-

ciety and VCU Athletics have a very strong relationship, and we’ve worked together on many events throughout the years,” Shortall said. “So, they do offer some advice, and, on a few holes, we have had golf team members take a shot for someone for an additional fee.” The event has taken

place at Independence Golf Club since it began, and Shortall said his organization has been happy to host the annual golf game in Midlothian. “I was not part of the initial committee, but it’s one of the nicest clubs in the area, and they’ve always been very good at addressing our needs,” he said.

Registration to play in the tournament is closed, but, according to Shortall, local businesses can still sign up to sponsor the event. For more information about the VCU Business Alumni Society Golf Open, contact Doug Knapp at dgknapp@vcu.edu or call 804-828-5394.

year but we’re racers -- diehard racers -- been doing this for years and too hard-headed to quit, I guess.” At Southside, Johnson came away with third and fourth place finishes, but he has found the going much more difficult at RIR. “This is like a superspeedway to Southside, so it’s all the difference in the world,” he said. “That’s why we have a little bit harder time getting the adjustment, getting everything the way we need it. We don’t run it as much so we don’t really have the feel under us like the Cup guys do, but – not taking that away from them – we come out here and do the best we can.” Last year, Johnson finished near the back of the pack at RIR as his car didn’t come together until the race was wrapping up. Godsey also faced disappointment last year, but his started before the race even began. “We were third quickest in practice and went out for the second practice and blew up on pit road,” he said. Once again, Godsey said he feels like he’s got a good car, but added a wildcard to his hand by hiring Brandon Butler as his crew chief. Last year, Butler qualified second and finished third in the event. “I feel like we’ve got a good

set-up in the car and I think we’re going to have a real competitive day,” Godsey said. Scott Turlington is another local driver looking to make a mark in the race. The Henrico resident claimed a personal best seventh place finish at Southside three years ago then came away with the same finish at RIR last year. However, the Southside race is the one he remembers most. “I had to come from the back three times, cut down a tire, got wrecked by Joey Logano,” he said. Turlington, Godsey and Johnson were among the racing family at Southside when Hamlin made his rise and appreciate what good he has done with his charity race. “It’s nice of Denny to go back and remember his local grassroots racing and remember the guys he used to race with out at Southside,” Turlington said. “It’s just really cool for Denny and the Foundation to be able to let his guys come out here and run with the Cup guys.” One local driver to keep an eye on will be the youngest in the race. Just turned 15-yearold Gray Gaulding out of Colonial Heights burst onto the NASCAR scene this year, becoming the youngest driver to finish second in the K&N Pro Series at Daytona.

Gaulding will make his Richmond debut on Thursday night, running both the K&N Blue Ox 100 and the Short Track Showdown. On Tuesday, Gaulding finished second fastest in Late Model testing at RIR. “Kyle Busch was first,” he said. “I’ve learned from a lot of new guys and I can’t wait to go out there and race around some cars and see what happens. “I’m having a lot of fun with it and I can’t wait for

next week to race in front of my home crowd and being able to race at Richmond’s always been a dream of mine,” Gaulding said. Though participation in the charity race doesn’t garner the media coverage or payouts of their regular circuit, the Cup drivers don’t take the Short Track Showdown lightly. “Any time you get behind the wheel you take this as serious as you can,” Ragan said. “If you’re starting in the

Daytona 500 or you’re racing a go-kart somewhere, you take it serious.” How serious? After disappointing finishes in his last two Short Track Showdowns, Kyle Busch spent a year building his own Late Model specifically for this year’s event. Likewise, two days after his weekend sweep in Texas, Busch was in Richmond testing before heading to Kansas for the next NASCAR weekend.

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