SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY
5.9.13
INSIDE SPORTS Midlothian native Sam Hunt took time to read to kids during race week. Page 8
BON AIR || BRANDERMILL || GENITO || MIDLOTHIAN || ROBIOUS || SALISBURY || WOODLAKE
Eagle Scout honors fallen firefighter motivated by an urge to serve. “I have always liked doing service,” Huang said, “I am involved in scouts and doing community service. After 9-11, I wanted to do something, to give back and serve, to serve in a unique way. I vividly felt what happened on Sept. 11. I
“We have something in common – Brad was the Special Correspondent youngest member in his staut of respect for a tion and I’m the youngest fallen firefighter, member here in this station,” Alex Huang, a Huang said. local Boy Scout, “It wasn’t only my idea has raised a memorial in his to do the memorial,” Huang honor in front of the Bon Air said. “I needed a project to do Fire Station. for my Eagle Scout project, Among local firefighters, and the crew and Brad McNeer’s story has been I were talking and told many times. they suggested doing It is the story of a young, something on Brad. I dedicated volunteer firefighter felt it was the project who was full of life and loved to do.” helping others. In a tragic Huang collected event, McNeer, 22, was on donations and garduty and heading to a call to nered support for the assist with an emergency when project. McNeer Rescue Unit #49, the vehicle he “The statue was was riding in, crashed in the shipped from New York,” 12400 block of Old BuckingHuang said. “Lowe’s helped ham Road. McNeer did not Engraving on the base of the memorial statue is shown out on needed supplies by here. survive. giving me a discount on items Huang’s memorial to and donations from individuMcNeer is not the honor nod certifications. He is a volunteer joined the fire department and als and businesses helped.” the firefighter has received Huang noted he is grateful at Bon Air Fire Station, which I love it.” since his death. A portrait of Huang said that after join- for District Fire Chief Ed Myhouses a mix of career and McNeer hangs in the county’s volunteer personnel. ing the fire department, he ers’ support, as well. Eanes-Pittman Public Safety learned about Brad McNeer’s Huang joined the fire deTraining Center, and a county partment on his 16th birthday, story. SCOUT page 2 BY BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT
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road, Brad McNeer Parkway, bears his name. Huang, 18, is no stranger to fire and emergency medical service – he is an emergency medical technician and is attending a Chesterfield Fire and EMS recruit school to obtain Firefighter I and Firefighter II
PHOTOS BY BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT
Alex Huang, 18, a firefighter and emergency medical technician, he’s also a Boy Scout. For his Eagle Scout project, Huang raised a memorial to fallen firefighter Brad McNeer in front of the Bon Air Fire Station.
New dance floor puts spring into Lifelong Learning dancers’ steps BY JODI DEAL Regional Reporter
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ntil this spring, dance students at the Lifelong Learning Institute on Westfield Road were learning and practicing their steps on a hard concrete floor covered with thin laminate tile. Now, thanks to a major donation of materials and labor by the Huguenot Trail Rotary Club, the dancers have a spring in their step – literally. Monica Hughes, Lifelong Learning Institute’s director, said during a recent recital and reception by the school’s dance classes that the floor made a huge difference for dancers at the senior citizens’ learning facility. The hand-scraped hickory laminate “floating” floor is specially designed to cushion dancers’ steps. “As you know, many of our dancers are men and women of a certain age,” dance student
Craft Beers Fest BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
PHOTO BY JODI DEAL
DANCE page 2
Taniyah Sparrow, 4, recently manned an Alex’s Lemonade Stand at Brandermill Kindercare during the facility’s open house in mid-April. Kindercare locations across Virginia and Maryland hosted the special lemonade stands raise money to fight cancer, in memory of cancer patient Alexandra Scott. In 2000, Alexandra, then 4, announced that she wanted to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to cure children with cancer. A foundation bearing her name now carries on the cause. Learn more at www.alexslemonade.org. Taniyah is the daughter of Kimberly and Don Sparrow of Chesterfield.
Sy Stein, shown in blue, and dancers Peggy Chicklo, Diana Donahue and Anne Clendenin break out some tap dance moves. Stein was dancing for the first time after months spent recovering from a lung ailment.
Troopers who gave lives to be honored BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
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irginia state troopers who were killed in the line of duty will be honored during the 2013 Virginia State Police Officers’ Memorial Service at 10:30 a.m. on Friday,
May 10. The service will be held at the Virginia State Police Academy Gymnasium at 7700 Midlothian Turnpike in North Chesterfield. Corrine Gellar, public relations director for Virginia State Police, said the observance celebrates the work of all past and present members of the law enforcement organization. “The Virginia State Police Officers’ Memorial Service honors all local, state, and federal law enforcePHOTO BY JODI DEAL
POLICE page 3
Craft beer enthusiasts will enjoy the vast array of micro-brewed ales that will be available during the third annual Virginia Hops and Barley Festival. The event will happen at the corner of Route 288 and Huguenot Trail in Midlothian from 1 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 11. Cameron Palmore, a member of the Powhatan Rotary Club and one of the event’s organizers, described the event as “a celebration of microbrewed beers.” “It is an opportunity for the brewers to highlight their creations and for the community to come together and enjoy a beautiful day listening to live music and local vendors,” Palmore said. So, what’s the big deal about microbreweries? Bottling beer can be an expensive venture for smaller breweries, Palmore explained, so in many cases, they don’t sell their beers in stores. Saturday’s festival will be a chance for people to try brews that are produced in other regions around the state that BEER page 2
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EXPLAIN ictorian Day and Parade NEWS || FEATURES
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Bon Air BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
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id you know that Bon Air began as a resort area developed to provide an escape from
the city? Get ready to learn more about the history of Bon Air during the upcoming Bon Air Victorian Day and Parade, set for noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 11. The parade will be from 11 a.m. to noon. Festivities will be based at Bon Air Christian Church, which is located at 2701 North Buford Road in Bon Air. Len Tuck, the president of the Bon Air Historical Society, explained that several historic figures who are well-known throughout Central Virginia played a part in the community’s origins, settling in 1877. “Well-known figures like Lewis Ginter and Joseph Bryan, together with railroad leaders such as Col. A.S. Buford and Thomas Mann
Randolph Talcott, organized the Bon Air Land and Development Company,” Tuck said. “The ambition of these early leaders to expand the railroad and develop a resort destination along the route led them to the high elevations of this area in northern Chesterfield where they would build a luxurious resort on the Richmond & Danville Railway. “The area was naturally appealing to those who wished to escape the less pleasant air and (unsanitary) conditions of the city just eight miles away. The resort was very successful for several years before a fire destroyed the grand Bon Air Hotel and the great recession of the 1890s dampened the expansion plans for the resort,” Tuck said. Tuck said the Bon Air Historical Society has helped to preserve and promote the community’s unique historical and cultural heritage since 1978. Each year, the Victorian Day celebration is the group’s chance to share that legacy with local citizens.
“Victorian Day is a gift from the Bon Air Historical Society to the community,” Tuck said. “It is an opportunity for neighbors and friends and their guests to celebrate the village with good food and entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere.” In keeping with the theme of preserving the past, historical displays with information about the early years of Bon Air will be shown. A World War II-themed display created by a Bon Air Historical Society member will also be on hand. The parade is the feature that has attracted large crowds to Bon Air year after year. Tuck said Saturday’s procession will feature several forms of entertainment provided by community volunteers including bagpipes, marching bands and antique automobiles. Food and product vendors, live music and children’s games will round out the afternoon after the parade ends.
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All in all, the occasion should be a great opportunity to learn more about Bon Air’s storied past. And, according to Tuck, it is also significant because the residents who live there will come together to enjoy the experience. “It gives everyone a chance to share the beauty of the village with family and friends,” Tuck said. “When you see ordinary folks, neighbors and friends gather in such a venue for no other purpose than to enjoy and celebrate the community where we live and “tip the hat” to the extraordinary individuals that came before us, it really is a bit of Americana, wholesome and nostalgic, that somehow survives in a busy world.” Traffic will be re-routed and monitored closely by law enforcement during the event. Buford Road will be closed to through traffic from Rockaway Road to Bon Air Baptist Church from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Streets that intersect with
Bon Air Victorian Day and Parade Sat., May 11 noon to 4 p.m.
Buford Road and the parade route will be closed to through traffic during the parade. For more information about the Bon Air Victorian Day and Parade, call 804-543-6629 or visit www. bonairhistoricalsociety.org.
Hundreds attend Dia de los Niños
PHOTO BY JODI DEAL
Lifelong Learning Institute director Monica Hughes thanked members of the Huguenot Trail Rotary Club, who not only donated materials for her school’s new dance floor, but also installed it by hand.
DANCE from page 1
PHOTOS BY BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT
Cooks from La Milpa offered up fresh Mexican food from a cart during the recent Dia de los Niños event at the Meadowdale Library. In the photo below, two young boys enjoy discovering the secret nooks and crannies of an activity cube. BY BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT Special Correspondent
The smell of sizzling beef grilling and fresh tortillas drifted through the air at the Dia de los Niños event at Meadowdale Library on April 27. Lively music filled the air, beckoning to the enthused crowd, inviting them to put a lilt in their steps. The annual event offered an enticing spread of authentic Mexican food including tacos, which were a big hit with the crowd. La Milpa cooks had a nearly constant long line snaking from their food stand.
La Michoana served ice cream. Piñatas and activity cubes drew wide grins from the children as they happily played and took part in games.
Home Depot provided a wood working activity in which children and adults could actually build a project. Children had a bilingual story time, craft activities and book giveaways. Many hands came together to make Dia de los Niños a success. Contributing to or taking part in the event were Capoeira Resistencia, Richmond Kickers, Virginia Center for Latin American Art, Flamenco Gallardo, DJ Orangel Bustamante, La The library parking lot was Milpa, La Michoacana ice full of music, dancing, food cream and Cosby High School and game. Inside the library, International Dance Club. more adventures and fun Meadowdale Library personawaited attendees. nel assisted at the events.
Carol Pritchard said before a performance, getting a laugh from the crowd. “Now, when they leave, our students say, ‘I don’t hurt as much.’” Rotary Club member Maxine Wilkinson said the floor represents about $1,000 in materials and a good deal of free labor from Rotary members Randy Hall, Jeff Appling and Ian Patrick, who installed it themselves. Hughes said Appling, despite a bad back, stayed after the floor installation was finished to install free frames around the classroom’s furnaces, which looked odd once the floor had been laid around them. The new floor isn’t affixed to the actual floor of the room, Hughes said. That’s because the 1950s-era building is owned by Chesterfield County Public Schools. What once served as the old
SCOUT from page 1 Devoted to his work, Huang says one thing he doesn’t get a lot of is sleep. On a typical day, Huang is in high school from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., then has a two hour break before he must report
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they might not otherwise encounter. “The brewers are artisans,” Palmore said. “They use high-quality ingredients and individual methods to create each recipe, and they brew many different styles of beer, each with its own flavor. “These are not massproduced beers, and many of them are not available outside this region. And, many of them are only available at restaurants or bars because they are not bottled,” Palmore said. Since micro-brewing is such a personal experience, the happening will give members of the general public face time with the creators behind those unique brews. It goes without saying that tasting the beers is a major aspect of the festivities. “Sampling of the beer is included in the ticket price, so connoisseurs can try the different styles to find the ones they like,” Palmore said. “Also, some of the brewers will be at the event so you
Watkins Elementary School is now used by Lifelong Learning Institute during the day at no cost to the organization, thanks to a special agreement with the school system, which holds classes there at night. Dance students thanked the Rotary Club with a ballet routine, ballroom dancing, some line dancing and a few tap numbers, followed by dessert. Spectators packed the small classroom and spilled out into the hallway. The crowd was so large that cars had to park at a church across the road. Hughes was unsurprised by the big turnout. The center, which offers courses in everything from foreign language and history to computers, is usually bustling during the day, she said, and is a home away from home for many of its 657 members.
For a $150 per year fee, seniors over 50 can participate in as many classes, lectures and activities as they want at Lifelong Learning Institute, but, according to Hughes, that’s not the only reason members show up. Many come by just to hang out in the library, or to eat lunch with friends. “It’s a big family here,” Hughes said. “Anything people need, they know there’s someone here to help.” Registration for the institute’s summer semester, which will include more than 100 courses taught by volunteers, begins this month. The Institute also plans an art show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 18. For more information about Lifelong Learning Institute, go to www.llichesterfield.org, or call 804-3782527.
to recruit school. After that, he arrives home around 11:30 p.m. and then has two hours of homework to do. He is already planning on college. The skills that Huang has learned not only as a scout but as an EMT have already
come in handy. “I came upon a bad crash and was able to use some of my skills to assist until medical personnel arrived on scene,” Huang said. The statue sits in front of Bon Air Fire Station.
can meet them and discuss the nuances of their particular beers.” The festival will happen in Malvern, which is a community that is close to Route 288 and easily accessible for both Midlothian and Powhatan residents. For that reason, Palmore said that he expects the event to attract people from both counties as well as the rest of the Central Virginia region. “The location was chosen because of how accessible it is for everyone in the Richmond area,” Palmore said. “Being right off the exit to 288 makes it easy to get to from all parts of town. “The site is actually in Powhatan, but it has a Midlothian address. Anyway, we want this to be a regional event that attracts people from all around the Greater Richmond area.” Although beer plays a part in the proceedings, Palmore said that parents shouldn’t think that the Virginia Hops and Barley Festival isn’t a family-oriented event. There
will be a kids’ area, and according to Palmore, there will be plenty of space for youngsters to run around and play. Craft and food vendors will also take part in the event, so it will be a chance for locals to check out their wares while sampling some of the best craft beers that the state has to offer. Last year’s event attracted approximately 2,500 attendees, and Palmore said he expects that number to be surpassed this time around. “Last year was a beautiful spring day where families got to enjoy being outside and knock off the cobwebs from winter,” Palmore said. “Everyone was having a great time listening to the music and enjoying local Virginia beer.” Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. VIP tickets are also available for $45. Kids 12 and under will be admitted for free. For more information, visit www.vabeerfest.com.
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Seventeen locals recently graduated from the Chesterfield County Police Department’s Citizens Academy.
POLICE from page 1 ment who have so valiantly given of their lives in their duty to serve and protect others,” Gellar said. Since the services began, however, each observance has focused on a specific member of the State Police’s ranks. Friday’s ceremony will be dedicated to Trooper Andrew D. Fox who was killed while on duty in Hanover County on Friday, Oct. 5, 2012. Trooper Fox,
OVERHEARD Corrine Gellar
The portrait is an important and lasting way to honor these brave men and women...
who had been assigned to Pulaski County, was working a special assignment at the State Fair of Virginia at the time of his death. Portraits of state troopers have been unveiled at each of the previous memorial services, and a painting of Trooper Fox will be shown to the public for the first time on Friday. The rendering will then be displayed along with others in the Memorial Art Gallery at the Virginia State Police Administrative Headquarters. “The Virginia State Police have been honoring its fallen heroes since the department dedicated its portrait gallery on June 25, 1947,” Gellar said. “The State Police Memorial Art Gallery was originally located in a lecture hall at the State Police Administrative Headquarters on Midlothian Turnpike.” According to Gellar, the portraits were added to the proceedings as a way to
James R. Kramer, David Lipp, David D. McGee, Deborah Newcome, Brenda Stewart, Gertrud Swearengen, Judith R. Waters, Jeffrey M. West and Earl Woosley. The academy includes visual presentations, question-and-answer sessions, tours and a variety of practical exercises. Department officials said they believe graduates of the Citizens Academy play an important partner role in helping it ensure that Chesterfield County is the safest and most secure community of its size in the U.S.
memorialize those troopers and to serve as a constant reminder of their valiant efforts. “The portrait is an important and lasting way to honor these brave men and women who so selflessly served and died for their Commonwealth,” Gellar said. “They are never to be forgotten, and the gallery provides us a way to not only pay tribute to them, but to also carry on their memory and sacrifice.” Gellar mentioned that Fox’s family, his fellow troopers and his supervisors will appear at the ceremony. Members of the general public are also invited to attend. During the service, the Virginia State Police Color Guard will present flags and wreaths. And, state Police personnel will perform renditions of songs such as “Amazing Grace” and “Taps,” and Central Virginia-based vocalist Susan Greenbaum will perform the concluding solo. According to Gellar, the event’s timing will not conflict with National Police Week, which is a nationwide observance that celebrates the efforts of law enforcement. During that week, which will occur from Sunday, May 12 and Saturday, May 18, Virginia State Police personnel will travel to Washington, D.C. to attend events sponsored by groups such as the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund and Concerns of Police Survivors. Gellar said it is important for area citizens to take time out to remember the efforts of departed state troopers and other late law enforcement personnel. “The men and women of the Virginia State Police take (our) mission to heart and have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting those who live, work and travel through our Commonwealth,” Gellar said. “Those honored during National Police Week and at memorial services throughout the month of May are the ones
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he Chesterfield County Police wDepartment’s Citizens Academy held its 28th graduation ceremony on Tuesday, April 16. The class’ 17 graduates joined the more than 700 county residents who have already completed the Senior Citizens or Citizens academies, which were first offered in 1999. Recent graduates included Jawaher Abed, Saba A. Abed, Stephanie K. Copeland, Michael F. DeWitt, Coleman Grandstaff, Elizabeth “Lisa” Janes, Jack Juris, Sue Juris,
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A dip in the right direction assist and attract new business to the state. Special Correspondent Under the tutelage of Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling, the t wasn’t the best of weeks for Virginia Gov. state has attracted more than its share of new Bob McDonnell. innovative business, and Virginia is nationally What should be a quiet countdown to known as a business friendly state where officials private life for a governor who came to are willing to work with private industry to ensure Richmond with a multitude of goals, some realthe best outcomes for these ventures. ized and some long forgotten and abandoned, is That’s especially true in Chesterfield, and -evolving daily into a lengthy list of allegations, despite an ongoing discussion regarding proffers, innuendo and personal attacks. a pressing demand in the county’s public schools And now that the national media has entered and a still challenging but recovering real estate the fray and is investigating a story that has all the market -- the county continues to attract and elements of a low budget soap opera, it’s hard to sustain economic development. imagine how McDonnell can bow out gracefully The Sabra announcement is another economic from a tenure that boost for the local economy, and the company boasted its share of victories, but also a healthy hinted it’s ready to expand its operations in the amount of controversy. area even further. It’s early in an investigation into the governor’s The company manufactures food products like relationship with an entrepreneur who vigorously dips and sauces made from hummus, a derivative supported McDonnell’s run for governor. of the chickpea. Sabra is a joint venture between Trouble is, Jonnie Williams, the CEO of Star Frito-Lay and the Strauss Company, an Israeli Scientific, also has his fair share of controversy. food conglomerate. They located in Chesterfield And when the governor’s daughter accepted a in 2010. wedding gift dinner from the Florida millionaire, The county’s attractiveness to outside investors tongues began to wag. is a reassuring sign for those who have already It’s a complicated mess that somehow involves staked an economic claim. It’s a sure indicator that the First Family’s former chef who left the manlocal leaders’ intense efforts to promote economic sion in a huff last year and has been charged with development efforts are paying off and a lifestyle embezzlement, and seems more than anxious to that is no secret to those who already reside in the provide details about the First Family’s cozy rela- county is quickly becoming a regionally known tionship with Star. fact. So, I suppose it’s not surprising that some For McDonnell, it’s a victory in a week that good news for Chesterfield County got lost in the would try the strongest of souls. The facts regardscandal hungry shuffle. At the risk of not kicking a ing the governor’s involvement with Star Scientific governor when he’s down, the news also involved will emerge. Initially, most of the initial allegations an aspect of McDonnell’s administration that has seem to exhibit a sense of questionable judgment drawn high marks from even his most stringent rather than criminal intent. Who knows where detractor. these facts will lead? Sabra’s announcement of an $86 million exI suppose all good news is tempered with a pansion to its Chesterfield operation that will sup- dose of the bad. But, long after the governor ply an additional 140 jobs to the county is another has departed for other career choices, Sabra will notch on McDonnell’s long list of economic accontinue to provide quality jobs and play a vital complishments. Fortunately, the county has been role in the Chesterfield community. McDonnell the recipient of an administration’s willingness to deserves credit where credit is due. BY JIM RIDOLPHI
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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 April 25 14200 block of Candlewick Court Identity fraud was reported at a residence. Miscellaneous items were stolen.
23225 April 26 12300 block of Oak Bluff Trail Two known and other unknown suspects entered an unlocked residence and vandalized the interior.
April 27 13800 block of Beechwood Point Road A report of an actual bomb was made at Woodlake–Beechwood Point. 13800 block of Winterberry Ridge Two known suspects entered a residence through an unlocked front door at 4:35 p.m. and stole items.
April 29 12300 block of Bailey Bridge Road A traffic hit and run was reported on a roadway near a place of worship.
23113 April 26 500 block of Paddle Creek Drive A known suspect stole items from a construction site.
April 29 10300 block of Crumpets Lane Possession of marijuana was reported at a residence.
23236 April 28 4400 block of Rabbit Foot Court An animal was reported at large.
23237 April 29 8800 block of Firethorne Lane Credit card/ATM fraud was reported at a residence. Currency was stolen. 9100 block of Hopkins Road Possession of marijuana was reported at a residence. 6700 block of Jefferson Davis Highway Possession of marijuana was reported at a trailer park. 2700 block of Dundas Road Possession of marijuana was reported at a residence.
23803 April 26 20400 block of Laurel Road An unknown suspect approached a victim at a playground/park and assaulted him.
11400 block of W. Huguenot Road An unknown suspect approached a April 27 clerk at a service station, displayed a 12100 block of Womack Road handgun and demanded money. The clerk complied and the suspect left the Arson on the woods was reported. April 29 scene. 16200 block of Pauline Avenue Maltreatment of/cruelty to an animal was reported at a residence.
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23235 April 28
1400 block of Ransco Road Maltreatment of/cruelty to an animal was reported at a residence.
April 29 2300 block of Ives Lane An unknown suspect was observed in a residence after forcing entering through a rear window at 3:55 a.m.
23234 April 28 5200 block of Gatebridge Road Unknown suspect/s stole both license plates from a vehicle parked at a residence.
23235 April 26 A known suspect identified himself as a police officer during a conversation at a specialty store and was reported to be a fraud.
4300 block of Village Creek Drive Possession of marijuana was reported at a residence. 12100 block of Branders Creek Drive A traffic hit and run was reported on a roadway near a place of worship.
23834 April 27 15800 block of Jefferson Davis Highway Identity fraud was reported at a parking lot/garage.
23836 April 29 13900 block of N. Enon Church Road A fugitive escaped from justice at a parking lot/garage.
Finance professionals join to form new firm PHOTO PROVIDED BY PROVIDENCE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Shown left to right are Providence Middle School Principal Derek Wasnock, Assistant Principal Monique Booth, eighth grade science teacher Alice Potts, Administrative Assistant Charles Anderson and Assistant Principal Gayle Hines. Potts was recently named teacher of the year.
Alice Potts named Teacher of the Year at Providence Middle CONTRIBUTED REPORT
During an otherwise routine meeting on March 27, eighth grade teacher Alice Potts got a big surprise when she was named Providence Middle School Teacher of the Year. Potts taught for 15 years at
Manchester Middle School, and has been with Providence for one year. She also serves as chair of the science department at the school. This year, Potts took her students on field trips with the
Chesapeake Bay Foundation during which they met Gov. Bob McDonnell. Her students also tagged and released over 300 monarch butterflies, and held a can drive through which 4,685 pounds of aluminum were collected.
Spanish tutoring at Swift Creek M.S.
CONTRIBUTED REPORT
Two local financial professionals joined forces in March to open Bell Rogers Wealth Management in Millworks on the Green in Midlothian. Cofounders Ron Bell and Paul Rogers have combined their decades of experience in the financial industry to form an independent and local wealth management practice. Rogers, a certified financial planner, is cofounder and principal at Bell Rogers Wealth Management. He is an active member of the Midlothian business community, serving on the Board of the
James Ayers & Associates buys Sandra Claytor firm CONTRIBUTED REPORT
A little extra help never hurts. Swift Creek Middle School students are participating in a lunchtime tutoring program, through which students in higher levels of Spanish classes offer help to students who aren’t as far through the program. Here, Emily Bartlett and Isabelle Funtila work together. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SWIFT CREEK MIDDLE SCHOOL
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Joy Monopoli Birgit Weeks Brian French Melody Kinser Jodi Deal Sue Smoak Cindy Brown Cindy Grant
Sandra Claytor, a certified public accountant and the current owner of Sandra Claytor CPA, has sold her full service accounting firm to James Ayers & Associates after 20 years of practice. Claytor is retiring from active practice but will continue to consult with James Ayers & Associates as the firm takes on her client base and new clients in the community. James E. Ayers, CPA is the owner of James Ayers & Associates and is a former Controller at Klockner Pentaplast in Gordonsville with 13 years of experience managing finance functions. A native of Charlottesville, Ayers
received his B.A. degree from Elon University, post baccalaureate in accounting from Virginia Commonwealth University and his executive MBA from the University of Richmond. James Ayers & Associates, with offices in Chesterfield, provides accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, individual & corporate tax return preparation, and corporate review and compilation services. The firm has a staff of 6 fulltime and part-time associates. Industry specializations include non-profit, home services, and a variety of small businesses. For more information, contact Ayers at 804-748-9135.
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Midlothian YMCA and is President of the Western Chesterfield Business Alliance. Rogers has been providing financial advice in his Midlothian office for 10 years. Bell, an accredited asset management specialist, is cofounder and principal at Bell Rogers Wealth Management. Millworks on the Green is located across from the Midlothian YMCA. Bell Rogers Wealth Management is located at 13924 Coalfield Commons Place, Suite 101, in Millworks on the Green. To learn more about Bell Rogers Wealth Management, call 804-378-8080 or visit www.bellrogers.com.
Powhatan, Va 23114 Office: (804) 379-6451 Fax: (804) 379-6215 Mail: PO Box 10 Powhatan, VA 23139
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MAY 9, 2013 || 5
NEWS || FEATURES
JMU students use break for service CONTRIBUTED REPORT
More than 300 James Madison University students embarked on 30 spring break trips around the country and world. Among them were local students. Participating students spent the week living simply, focused on service in their destination community but also on teamwork and reflection within their group. Locals who participated in the program included Alex
Billeter of Chester, Kathleen Ramage of Midlothian, Sarah Sheppard of Midlothian,Zachary Cutter of Midlothian, Kaitlin Rogers of Midlothian, Briana Sullivan of Midlothian, Colleen Casey of Richmond, Kelsey Blum of Midlothian, Emily Tibbens of Midlothian, Kelsey McCamey of Chesterfield, Nicholas Geer of Midlothian, Katelyn Bailey of Midlothian, Kelly Plonski of Midlothian and Sydney McKenney of Richmond.
PHOTOS BY BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT
Above: Chesterfield County Police Chief Thierry Dupuis and volunteer coordinator Carole Maxwell offer a certificate to volunteer Ruth Jordan, who served 106 hours for the police department in the past year. Left: Chesterfield County police officers served lunch to volunteers during a recent volunteer appreciation event.
Police volunteers of all ages honored BY BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT Special Correspondent
F
rom Boy Scouts to senior citizens, the Chesterfield County Police Department honored volunteers of all ages during a festive, light ceremony held April 27 at the Eanes-Pittman Public Safety Training Center. “Our oldest volunteer is 94 years old,” Carole Maxwell, volunteer coordinator for Chesterfield County Police Department, said. “This volunteer serves one day a week, every week.” Youth volunteers included Boy Scouts from the Scout Explorer Law Enforcement program. In all, people received the President’s Volunteer Service Awards, a national honor offered in recognition of volunteer service. Established in 2003, the President’s Volunteer Service Award is given each year to individuals, groups and families who have met or exceeded requirements for volunteer service and have demonstrated exemplary citizenship through volunteering. The Chesterfield County Police Department has a long history of volunteer service, and approximately 200 volunteers perform community service each year on behalf of the organization. Volunteer roles include auxiliary officers, motorist assistants, chaplains, Crime Solvers Board members, office volunteers and animal control volunteers. “In his 2002 State of the Union Address, President George W. Bush created
the USA Freedom Corps, and called on every American to make a lifelong commitment to volunteer service. The President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals and families who have answered that call,” Maxwell said. The awards are issued by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, a group created by Bush to recognize the valuable contributions volunteers are making to our nation. The welcome and introductions were by Major Dan W. Kelly, Operational Support Bureau Commander and Carole Maxwell, Volunteer Coordinator. Invocation was offered by Corporal Mike Catron, Crime Prevention Specialist. Remarks were offered by Colonel Theirry Dupuis, Chief of Police and Sergeant Matthew B. Comer, Auxilary Police. Volunteer recognition was by Major Dan Kelly and Carole Maxwell. Presentation of Awards by Colonel Theirry Dupuis. Closing remarks were offered by Carole Maxwell. The Benediction was offered by Police Chaplain Larry O. Lingle. After the awards were presented the volunteers were treated to lunch, served by Chesterfield County Police staff. Award recipients were: Gold Awards, for adults serving 500 or more hours, went to Nancy P. Brown, Robert L. BeHage, Sallie J. Levander, William Anderson, Joan I. Cole, Denis E. Greaney, William Garrahan, Charles A. McCrory, G. Michael Laffoon, Baxter Sessums, Robert W. Parrish, Jesse Lee, Thomas B. Hoekstra and Matthew B. Comer.
Adult Silver Awards, for volunteers who served 250 to 499 hours, went to Clarence E. Steed, Michael P. Parker, Clara A. Thompson, Kenneth T. Roeber, Nathan D. Nillson, Cindy Wallo, William N. Bishop, Jeffrey S. Patton, Jerry Horton, Gregory H. Hopper, W. Ed Nicely, G. Thomas Fink, Carolyn A. Horton, R. Eric Luther, Frederick P. Woodlief, Sidney L. Wells, Joseph Ferreri, Jessica S. Younce, Kathy Feiring, Janet F. Bishop, Roland T. Brown, Patricia Moriarity, Matthew Burridge, Marc Chambers, Isabel Axelson, Brandon Skeens and Rick Mormando. Youth Silver Awards, for young volunteers who served 175 to 249 hours, went to Robert Wellman and Marilyn Davis. Adult Bronze Awards, for volunteers who served 100 to 249 hours, went to Sylvia Crosby, Guy H. Bryant, Rick Hogsett, Randall Casciello, Leslie R. Ritchey, Weldon Hazlewood, Charles Feiring, Sandra Davis, David A. Watts, Georgia Smith, Marilyn S. Farmer, Larry O. Tingle, Robert J. Dienes, Perry W. Hornbarger, Marci L. Stables, Shane Mann, Howard Barnes, Max Inman and Ruth Jordan. Youth Bronze Awards, for young adults who served 100 to 174 hours, went to Mariah Lowe, Joseph Kearns, Derek Beal, Elijah Ghorley, Michael Lemaster, Angela Feiring, Carolyn Feiring, Donyale Holmes, Elizabeth Dupuis, Zachary Simpson, Elizabeth Decker, Zackary Smith, Timothy Younger and Joshua Dance.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SWIFT CREEK MIDDLE SCHOOL
Some of the Swift Creek Middle School band students who participated in the Pyramid Concert were, back row, left to right, Savannah Nell, Denton Woodward, Dante Moore and Alyssa Simpson; second row, Joe Dunnigan, Liam McDevitt and Isaiah Lynch; and front row, Matthew Prior, Josh Souders and Cade English.
Swift Creek Middle students perform at Pyramid concert
T
he Swift Creek Middle School Assessment Band participated in Clover Hill High School’s annual Pyramid Band Concert, which was held Feb. 20 at Clover Hill High School. This program allowed the Swift Creek, Manchester High School and Clover Hill students to perform the music that they will perform at the annual State Concert Band Assessment, a very important event through which bands re-
ceive their state ratings for theyear. Swift Creek Middle School's band performed "Tall Cedars" by Eric Osterling, "Soaring" by Erik Morales and "Overlords" by Sean O'Loughlin, then received comments and suggestions from a panel of three listeners. The comments helped band students and directors tweak performances in preparation for the state concert assessment. Information provided by Patricia Cuenin.
FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT
05/08-05/09
GARDEN WORD SEARCH
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
HOROSCOPES
43. Skin lesions 44. Stiff bristle 45. Equally 46. Pool dressing room 49. Eyebath 51. Thick piece of something 52. Angry 55. 20th Hebrew letter 56. 3rd largest Colombian city 57. Gum arabics 59. A song of praise to God 60. Dispatcher CLUES DOWN 1. Word shortening 2. Tore down (var. sp.) 3. 22nd state (abbr.) 4. Tropical constrictor 5. Hostelry 6. Examine and expurgate 7. Small restaurants 8. E. Asian anis liquor 9. Infestation of head louse 10. New Yorker film critic Pauline
11. An orange-red crystalline dye 13. Indicates position 16. Root mean square (abbr.) 17. Electronic countercountermeasures 19. 12-31 greeting 22. Fastens 23. Himalayan wild goats 25. One who overacts 28. Facial gesture 30. Absence of aggression 34. China 38. Older Bridges brother 40. Plays 42. Term denoting psychic abilities 43. Oral polio vaccine developer 44. Any habitation at a high altitude 46. Hyperbolic cosecant 47. Russian mountain range 48. An aromatic salve 50. Venezuelan fashion designer initials 53. Highest card 54. 5th son of Jacob 58. Music storage device
CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you can’t get enough of a certain thing, but you may need to pace yourself. Otherwise your interest may start to wane. A surprise situation arises on Thursday.
TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, though the first few days of the week may seem disastrous, hang in there and you will find things will turn around quite quickly.
LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, there are things you need to say to a particular person in your life. But you do not know how to express your opinions in a way that’s easy to understand. Speak from the heart.
SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 You can use a break from the daily grind, Scorpio. It might be time to plan a getaway. You may want to make this a solo trip so you can fully recharge.
VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 You may be feeling a bit under the weather this week, Virgo. It’s likely due to you pushing your schedule to the limits. Schedule some recovery time for yourself.
SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 The truth can sometimes hurt a bit, Sagittarius. But a dose of honesty this week provides the reality check you have been needing. Make some changes.
GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, sometimes you have to make some noise to be heard, which may seem out of character for you. If the cause is that important, you will do what is necessary.
LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, you need to rely on someone this week for a big project, but you don’t know who to choose. Make a list of your best prospects, and then you can narrow it down from there.
CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, an event this week gets you fired up and excited. It could be the news you have been waiting to hear from work or from a significant other. AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, knowing when to keep quiet can be difficult, especially when you suspect something is off-kilter. This week you will be put to the test. PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, the week may begin somewhat aimlessly, but things will all come together by the middle of the week.
THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS
CLUES ACROSS 1. Our 10 numerals 7. Horseshoe cleat 11. Ear shell 12. Soprano solo 13. Vestments 14. Heart’s singer Wilson 15. Set of type in one style 16. Withdraw from work 18. Ancient Hebrew coin 20. Megacycle 21. 26th British letter 22. Colonnaded Greek walks 24. Russian sourgrass soup 26. OK Corral’s Wyatt 27. Cheremiss 28. Schenectady County Airport 29. Laptop 31. Actress Farrow 32. NYSE for Murphy Oil Corp. 33. Talk noisily 35. New Testament 36. Tax collector 37. Mediation council 39. Not in use 41. Act as master of ceremonies
ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you may feel like you need to move faster to get ahead, but the opposite is true this week. Slow down and focus on the details and you will benefit.
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Local students among Phi Beta Kappa inductees CONTRIBUTED REPORT
L
ocal students attending HampdenSydney College were initiated into the honor society Phi Beta Kappa on April 8. Membership recognizes the highest academic achievement, moral character, responsible citizenship, and broad intellectual curiosity. Nicolas Steffen DeProspero. A senior, Nick is a Patrick Henry scholar, and served as captain of varsity soccer and a resident advisor. He is a member of the honor societies Omicron Delta Kappa (leadership) and Chi Beta Phi (sciences) and is a member of the Tiger Athletic Club. A biology major, Nick is a graduate of Cosby High School and is the son of Bennie and Martina DeProspero of Midlothian. Diego Rolando Velasco. A junior, Diego is a Madison Scholar, serves as a resident advisor and is vice president of Circle K. He was the recipient at opening convocation in
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HAMPDEN-SYDNEY COLLEGE
Local Hampden-Sydney College students Nicolas Steffen DeProspero and Diego Velasco were among this group that was recently inducted into the honor society Phi Beta Kappa.
September of the President’s Award for Scholarship and Character. He is a member of the honorary society Omicron
Delta Kappa (leadership), the Men’s Studies Committee, the Spanish Club, the International Club, Catholic Campus
Ministry, and Club Soccer. He has presented at the American Men’s Studies Association Conferences for the past three
years and taught English as a Second Language in Richmond Public Schools last summer. A Spanish and English
major, Diego is a graduate of Meadowbrook High School and is the son of Ester V. Velasco of Richmond.
Spirited History tour set Saturday CONTRIBUTED REPORT
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Providence Middle School eighth graders Tre Man Pope, Carlos Handal, Darryl Delaney, Emmanuel Anderson and Trey Boyd show off their handmade solar oven, which they used to compete with other students to see whose creation heated a can of water to the highest temperature.
Providence Middle School students build solar ovens CONTRIBUTED REPORT
E
ighth grade science students at Providence Middle School recently designed and built solar ovens to heat a can of water to the highest temperature possible. The project was part of a study unit on the transfer of energy – specifically conduction, convection and radiation. Students researched various models of solar ovens. They also viewed some
videos about how solar ovens are used around the world to cook food and purify water. Students worked in groups to design and build their ovens out of cardboard, tape, and aluminum foil. They tested the ovens outside and competed with one another to heat a can containing 100 milliliters of water to the highest temperature. Teachers built a giant solar oven of their own, which they used to heat up s‘mores for students.
By popular demand, the historic Magnolia Grange plantation house museum will now be open to the public for paranormal tours on a regular basis. The next Spirited History tour of the site will be offered 8 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, by the Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia. Representatives of Spirited History , a group of paranormal investigators whose mission is to bring attention to historic sites with a spirited past, will lead the tour, offering spine-tingling tales and historical information about the site. Bring cameras and recorders, and be on the look-out for a ghostly experience. Tours cost $20 per person for those 8 years old and up. Reservations are required for this event and participation is limited. Reservations can be made at the Chesterfield Historical Society’s website, www.chesterfieldhistory. com, using PayPal for fees. Learn more about the organization at the site. Spirited History can be heard live every Friday night at 9 p.m. on www. para-X.com. The group’s website is www.spiritedhistory.com.
Restoration closes VHS headquarters CONTRIBUTED REPORT
The Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia Headquarters and research library in historic Castlewood, located at 10201 Iron Bridge Rd. in Chesterfield, is closed for internal and external restoration. The Historical Society continues its operations for our members, volunteers, and community. For more information about events and updates concerning the Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia, those interested are urged to search the organization on Facebook or by visiting its website at www.chesterfieldhistory.com. The organization can be reached at 804-7967131.
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STUFF TO DO E-mail your event to editor@midlothianexchange.com. Subject line: EVENT
THURSDAY, MAY 9 My Son, the Doctor, an Eastern European, Balkan and Mediterranean folk group, will play 7 to 8 p.m. at the Chesterfield Central Library, which is located at 9501 Lori Road in Chesterfield, as part of the library’s Spring Acoustic Series. Registration is recommended. Register at library.chesterfield.gov or by calling 804-751-CCPL. "Modern culture and religion: Clash or cave?" will be offered at 7 p.m. at Congregation Or Ami, which is located at 9400 West Huguenot Road. The talk is part of the fifth annual Interfaith Trialogue, conducted by Bon Air Presbyterian Church, Bon Air United Methodist Church, Congregation Or Ami, the Virginia Muslim Coalition for Public Affairs, St. Edward Catholic Church and the Islamic Center of Virginia. Free parking and refreshments will be available. The Trialogue talks aim to deepend mutual understanding and appreciation between the three Abrahamic religious communities.
FRIDAY, MAY 10 Community business leaders can access the knowledge and experience of world-renowned leaders by attending Chick-fil-AŽ LeadercastŽ from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The Richmond Outreach Center (ROC) 5501 Midlothian Turnpike in Richmond. Chick-fil-AŽ LeadercastŽ is a one-day leader development event broadcast LIVE from Atlanta, Ga. to hundreds of sites throughout the nation. For information about Chick-fil-AŽ LeadercastŽ, visit www.chick-fil-aleadercast.com. For ticketing visit www.TheROC.com or www.facebook.com/consultnorth. LaPrade Library’s BookThink Book discussion group will cover “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil: A Savannah Story� by John Berendt
10:30 to 11:30 a.m. No registration is required. The library is located at 9000 Hull Street Road, and can be reached by calling 804-276-7755.
tion is recommended and a waitlist is available at all locations. For more information, call 804-768-7941. Susan Greenbaum will perform at 7:30 p.m. at Congregation Or Ami, which is located at 9400 Huguenot Road in Richmond. Tickets cost $15, and the price of admission includes snacks. Contact the Or Ami office at 804-2720017 for tickets and more information.
SATURDAY, MAY 11 Take your manga skills to the next level in a special class for teens 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Clover Hill Library. Learn how to create unique characters and brainstorm ideas. Participants must be between 12 and 16 years old. Students are encouraged to bring a bag lunch. Registration is required. Register online at library. chesterfield.gov or by calling the library at 804-751-CCPL.
Game On! @ LaPrade Library from 3 to 5 p.m. Visit the library to play Wii games and hang out with friends. No registration is necessary - just stop by and join the fun. Gaming is made possible by the Friends of the Chesterfield County Public Library, who provide all Wii equipment and games. The library is located at 6701 Deer Run Drive in Midlothian.
MONDAY, MAY 13 JobSeekers meets at 10 a.m. each Monday to provide those unemployed or underemployed with resources for landing a job and emotional and spiritual support while they’re looking. The meeting is held in Pinder Hall at Episcopal Church of Redeemer in Midlothian, located at the corner of Winterfield and Salisbury roads. Get help with resumes; assessing skills and strengths; preparing for interviews, correspondence, and networking tips. All help is provided free of charge. For info, contact Rev. Dr. Nancy E. Meck at redeemerassociate@gmail.com, or Teddy Cogbill by e-mailing interviewwell22@gmail.com or calling 804-379-8899.
Spring Into Reading, a magic show, will be offered at the Chesterfield Central Library 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Birds, bunnies and fish appear out of nowhere! Enjoy magic and stories in this fun family program with magician Mickey Moore and his pal Jack the bunny. This program is recommended for children ages 3 through 10. Registration is recommended. Register online at library.chesterfield.gov or by calling the library at 804-751-CCPL. The Bon Air Historical Society will sponsor the 35th Annual Victorian Day Parade and Festival starting at 11 a.m. The festival runs from noon to 4 p.m. The parade runs from Bon Air Baptist Church on Buford Road and ends at the festival site on the grounds of Bon Air Christian Church. Admission is free.
LaPrade Library. The class introduces beginning computer skills, such as using the mouse and keyboard, controlling the cursor and more, using Windows PCs. No computer experience is required. Registration is recommended. Register online at library.chesterfield.gov or by calling the library at 804-751-CCPL. The library is located at 9000 Hull Street Road.
A class on MS PowerPoint 2010 for Windows PCs will be offered 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. at the Chesterfield Central Library, located at 9501 Lori Road in Chesterfield. Learn how use templates, create slides, and organize your slides into a slide show. You must be able to use a mouse and keyboard and have experience with Microsoft Word. Registration is recommended. Register online at library.chesterfield.gov or by calling the library at 804-751-CCPL. A technology class will cover PC Basics from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY
FRIDAY, MAY 17 A Clover Hill Critics book discussion will cover “Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks� by Rebecca Skloot 11 a.m. to noon. No registration is required. The library is located at 6701 Deer Run Drive in Midlothian, and its telephone number is 804-318-8668.
SATURDAY, MAY 18
The Stray Birds, a group playing both original and traditional music, will perform 7 to 8 p.m. at the Chesterfield Central Library, which is located at 9501 Lori Road in Chesterfield, as part of the library’s Spring Acoustic Series. Registration is recommended. Register at library.chesterfield.gov or by calling 804-748-1601.
The Central Virginia Louisiana State University Alumni will hold its annual Crawfish Boil, with gates opening at 10 a.m. Serving starts at noon. The event will be held at the American Legion Post 354, which is located at 13200 Robious Road in Midlothian. Fresh Louisiana crawfish, jambalaya, hot dogs, corn and potatoes will be served. Bring your own drinks. Doors prizes and a live auction will be offered, and LSU Alumni will send representatives with merchandise from the Shelton Gift Shop. Reservations and payment can be made at centralvalsu.com. Admission is $35 for adults with reservations or $45 at the gate, $10 for teens and free admission for children under 12.
"Universal values: Religion versus culture" will be offered at 7 p.m. at the Islamic Center of Virginia, which is located at 1241 Buford Road in Richmond. The talk is part of the fifth annual Interfaith Trialogue, conducted by Bon Air Presbyterian Church, Bon Air United Methodist Church, Congregation Or Ami, the Virginia
Friends of the Midlothian Library will present a talk and book signing by “The Widow Spy�, retired CIA Cold War undercover operative Martha D. Peterson, at 10:30 a.m. Admission is free but seating is limited. The Midlothian Library is at 521 Coalfield Rd. in Midlothian. For more information, call 804-768-7907.
THURSDAY, MAY 16
WEDNESDAY, MAY 15
Paws to R.E.A.D., set for 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the LaPrade Library, offers individual 20-minute help sessions where children read to therapy dogs. Each session takes place in a glassed quiet study area or small meeting room and parents can sit in or nearby during the session. Sign up at the reference desk. Advance registra-
Muslim Coalition for Public Affairs, St. Edward Catholic Church and the Islamic Center of Virginia. Free parking and refreshments will be available. The Trialogue talks aim to deepen mutual understanding and appreciation between the three Abrahamic religious communities.
The Bon Air Baptist Church Moms of Tots to Teens group meets from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at 2531 Buford Road. All moms are welcome. Preschool childcare is available. For information, contact Loretta Sherwood at tiandlo@aol.com.
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“This is the center of my fan base – my friends, family and sponsors are all here.” SAM HUNT, NASCAR DRIVER AND MIDLOTHIAN NATIVE
Kiwanis golf match on tap CONTRIBUTED REPORT
T
PHOTOS BY JODI DEAL
NASCAR driver Sam Hunt reads a race-themed book to children at the Children’s Museum of Richmond. Before the reading, Hunt said Midlothian was a great environment in which to grow up.
Midlothian native reads to kids during race week BY JODI DEAL Regional Reporter
K
ids toddled around a special NASCAR display at the Children’s Museum of Richmond on Monday, April 22, during race week, crashing toy cars into one another, waving race flags and trying on driver uniforms. Outside the exhibit, members of Sam Hunt’s race team lifted kids into and out of the driver’s seat of Hunt’s car. Hunt, a 19-year-old Midlothian native, stood nearby chatting with parents and, occasionally, when asked, leaned down to hug a young race fan. He later read “Racer Buddies: Rematch at Richmond,” a special racing book geared around the local track by Craig W. Elliott, to the children. Hunt interacted easily with his young fans, joking with a young boy, who provided commentary on the story. In the story, a young racecar, Tuck,
and his pit crew arrive in Richmond for a race. At the track, they encounter a mean racecar named Smoke, who fills Tuck’s head with doubts in an attempt to sabotage him. In the end, Tuck learns the importance of trusting his team and ignoring unsportsmanlike tactics. Hunt was gearing up for the Blue Ox 100, a Richmond race that was part of the K&N Pro Series East. This is his second year driving in the series. The visit home was welcome for Hunt, who has been racing at tracks across the eastern United States as part of the K&N Pro Series East. A James River High School graduate, who was the school’s star quarterback before his graduation last spring, said he enjoys sleeping at home and visiting with family, who he doesn’t get to see often due to his life on the road. “This is the center of my fan base
James River High School graduate Sam Hunt got to race on his home turf during the recent NASCAR races at Richmond International Raceway. He is shown with his car. Four-year-old Ryland Musick of Henrico got into the Pit Stop exhibit at the Children’s Museum of Richmond, where he met Midlothian native and K&N Pro Series East driver Sam Hunt.
HUNT page 9
PHOTO BY ANJIE HENLEY
#2 Andrew Portell has his head in the game. PHOTO BY CHARLIE LEFFLER
Michael Helbig, a graduate of Midlothian High School, made his final home appearance at Randolph-Macon College on Sunday afternoon. Helbig will finish as one of the best pitchers in Yellow Jacket history.
Sour Senior Day for R-MC foursome Local products look to use loss as motivation for NCAA run career wins with 85 and needed a victory over Wesley to surpass the mark set by the SHLAND – On Sunday afterclass of 2011. noon, four Randolph-Macon Fletcher, who appeared in 121 games College senior baseball players over the course of his career, made his stepped onto Hugh Stephens individual mark in the R-MC history books Field at Estes Park for the final regular sea- three years ago by becoming the first player son game of their college careers. to hit a home run at newly opened Hugh Opening ceremonies lauded the college Stephens Field. baseball careers of Michael Helbig, Jake Carpenter, a Richmond native, was one Fletcher, Jeb Weymouth and Austin Carpen- of only six R-MC students to receive an ter, but the day ended in disappointment Omicron Delta Kappa Student Leadership as visiting Wesley College (21-17-0) came Award this year. away with a 2-0 shutout win. After an illustrious career at Hanover Helbig is a Midlothian native. High School, Weymouth made 149 starts as “It will be a tough one to swallow,” Wey- a Yellow Jacket and ranks second all-time in mouth said. program history with 205 hits and nearly The senior foursome had plenty to 300 total bases. He will graduate as the allcelebrate coming into the contest. The class R-MC page 9 of 2013 is currently tied for with the most
BY CHARLIE LEFFLER Richmond Suburban Newspapers
A
James River seniors excel on and off the field BY BEN ORCUTT Staff Writer
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our seniors who play for the James River High School varsity boys soccer team exemplify what it means to be a student athlete. Scott Holahan, Andrew Portell, Tyler Shewmake and Matt Williams are not only part of the Rapids’ success on the pitch, but they excel in the classroom as well. All four rank in the top 10 of this year’s senior class and all are headed to well-known colleges or universities in the fall. Holahan is bound for Virginia Tech, while Portell will be off to the University of Virginia and Shewmake to William & Mary. Williams is the only one of the four who plans to play soccer at the collegiate level and his destination is Johns Hopkins. Following a win over Dominion District rival Clover Hill High School Cavaliers last week, James River was in first place in the district with a record of 7-1-1 and sported a 10-1-1 ledger overall. The four scholarly Rapids are led by second-year head coach Forsan Radwan, who was a standout soccer player at James River. SENIORS page 9
he Kiwanis Club of Chesterfield will sponsor its ninth annual charity golf tournament on Wednesday, May 15. Held at Independence Golf Club in Midlothian, the event will benefit Hospital Hospitality House and the Kiwanis Club. Aimed at helping families in medical crisis, Hospital Hospitality House provides not just a place to stay, but a caring, emotionally supportive environment for families who are displaced from home to be close to sick loved ones. Physicians, staff and social workers from local hospitals refer families to Richmond HHH, which has served more than 122,000 guests from across Virginia since opening its doors in 1984. Participation in the tournament will cost $150 per golfer or $550 per team. Sponsorships are available. Festivities will kick off at 11 a.m., with registration, lunch and an open driving range until 1 p.m., when the opening shot will be fired. Play will be followed by reception, dinner, awards, door prizes and other presentations from 5 to 7 p.m. Register online at www. kiwanisofchesterfield.org or mail payments to Kiwanis Club of Chesterfield, c/o Fred Smith, 11906 Kilrenny Road, Midlothian, VA 23113. For more information, contact Charles Adams at 804-7941019 or govadams@aol.com.
Miniature golf, family fun day May 18 CONTRIBUTED REPORT
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n Saturday, May 18, CCHASM will join with Ironbridge Sports Park and the Huckleberry Café & Catering to sponsor a Miniature Golf Tournament & Family Fun Day to help raise money for area residents in need. The tournament will start at 10 a.m. and end at approximately 2 p.m. with categories for both adult and youth participants. Trophies and gift cards will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners in each category. Registration will include goodie bags with coupons for a hot dog lunch and activities. Plus, more than two dozen vendors will be participating with items and information. Ironbridge Sports Park is located at 11400 Iron Bridge Road in Chester. Vendor spaces are still available. For more information, call Chris at 804-221-9267. For complete details and registration, go to cchasm.org or call 804-796-3715 ext. 2. About CCHASM CCHASM is a 501(c)(3) whose mission is to provide food, financial assistance and career clothing to area residents who have experienced or are experiencing an emergency situation that threatens their survival needs. CCHASM has been serving area residents for over 24 years. CCHASM serves area residents in need through 24 Alliance Food Pantries, Career Clothes Closet for Women, and with utility, rent and other financial assistance as funds are available. CCHASM’s largest program of the year is the Thanksgiving Meal Gift Package Program. FUN page 9
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R-MC from 8
HUNT from 8
time leader in runs scored 145 and at bats with 598. Weymouth also is third in career doubles (44), fourth in RBI (110), third in walks (89) and fifth in extra base hits (57). With 22 wins as a pitcher, Helbig is one victory away from tying the all-time R-MC career record. The Midlothian High School product made 42 starts and logged 264.2 innings on the mound, breaking the innings pitched record that stood for 47 years. However, with so much on the line, R-MC could not put it all together against Wesley. The Yellow Jackets (23-17-1) recorded eight hits in the game but failed to get a runner past second base. “We didn’t have that ‘want-to’ today that we’ve had over the past couple of weeks and you’ve got to come out and play every single day,” R-MC head coach Ray Hedrick said. R-MC displayed plenty of “wantto” a week earlier. The Yellow Jackets entered the Old Dominion Athletic Conference tournament as the No. 5 seed but won the championship. “It was a great accomplishment for our players,” Hedrick said. “They were hungry. They played up to a level that I haven’t seen from them play all year consistently over four or five days and it’s always a great feeling to win.” Carpenter agreed. “We just had tremendous energy. Everybody from the last guy on the bench that wasn’t even dressed out to the starting pitcher was ready to go and cheering everybody on,” he said. Freshman Michael Trentham, a James River High School graduate, was recognized for his talent by being named the 2013 ODAC Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. “That kid’s great,” Helbig said. “He comes out here and gives it 150 percent every time.” Helbig also reached a noteworthy mark during the weekend. He picked up his fourth career tournament win as a pitcher and will leave R-MC with the remarkable stat of having never
– my friends, family and sponsors are all here,” Hunt said. “That makes it really fun to race here, but it’s a lot of pressure.” PIT STOP EXHIBIT Sponsored by RIR, the Pit Stop exhibit at the Children’s Museum is a traveling exhibit that debuted in February at the museum’s Chesterfield location. The exhibit features a flag stand, from which children can wave all of the different flags used in racing and learn what they mean, a race car that has been cut in half to show its inner workings, a “build your own race car” station with wheeled car parts and ramps, “when they were young” panels on Virginia NASCAR drivers and owners, and even a chunk of track.
PHOTOS BY CHARLIE LEFFLER
Randolph-Macon College seniors Jake Fletcher, left, Austin Carpenter, Jeb Weymouth and Michael Helbig were honored in Ashland on Sunday as part of the Senior Day ceremonies.
lost in the ODAC championships. “I’m just glad I can put my team in a position to succeed and compete in the tournament and I think that’s just the mentality that I go in there with,” he said. “It’s just great; I can’t put it into words.” Hedrick likewise could not fully put into words Helbig’s contributions over his four years at R-MC. “He’s been pretty special to this program – very proud and very lucky to have had him,” he said. Helbig and Trentham were joined on the All-Tournament team by Weymouth, Fletcher and junior pitcher Matt Fischgrund, who picked up two wins during the championship run. Hedrick said any one of them could have won MOP honors. “Michael ended up being the one picked out, but I think we have three, four, five guys that could have competed for that award,” he said. By winning the ODAC title, RMC guaranteed its season did not end with the loss to Wesley. The Yellow Jackets will now wait until Sunday, May 12, to learn who and where they will play in the NCAA D-III Regionals, which begin Wednesday, May 15. Each of the upper classmen said the Senior Day loss will provide extra
FUN from 8 Last year the Thanksgiving Program provided a food gift package and financial help with perishable items for more than 8,400 adults and children. CCHASM works with residents in Chesterfield County, Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie County, Hopewell and Prince George County.
Michael Helbig and his parents, Chris and Christine Helbig, are shown during the Senior Day ceremonies.
motivation for the team. “I think the next week and half of practice we’ll kind of thrive off of this,” Weymouth said, “kind of remember what this feeling feels like and come out here and do our work and get better for the regional tournament.” Fletcher agreed. “I think this will definitely give us more motivation. Losing on senior day hurts for sure,” he said. “You don’t ever want to lose on your last game on your home field.” With an NCAA victory, the group
of seniors can add another accomplishment to their growing list by becoming the first R-MC team to win at the national level. Wesley 010 010 000 – 2 7 0 R-MC 000 000 000 – 0 8 1 Willey, Coope, Lober and Jeffer (W) Helbig and Keeler (R)- W- Willey, L- Helbig Highlights: W- Morgan Rupp 2-for-4; Steven Perone 1-for-3, RBI; Trevor Mears 2 steals. R- Tim Benjamin 3-for-4; Nate Meiners 2-for-4. LOB: Wesley 3, R-MC 8.
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SENIORS from 8 Radwan went on to play three years of varsity soccer at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he is currently pursuing a master’s degree in accounting. “The four have epitomized what a student athlete should be,” Radwan said. “They serve as role models for the rest of their teammates, which is encouraging for me as a coach as I stress the importance of their roles as student athletes to my players. They serve as role models for the rest of their teammates in that they have always kept their cool on the field. I never have to worry about disciplinary issues with any of them. I can rely on them to diffuse any testy situations on the field.” Last year, Radwan guided the Rapids to a second-place finish in both the district regular season and the district tournament, as James River completed the season with a 10-3-4 mark. Williams had a stellar season last year, being named first-team All-District and All-Region and honorable mention All-State. He also was named to the All-Region Academic team and was joined on last year’s All-District Academic team by Holahan, Portell and Shewmake. The foursome’s excellence in the classroom carries over to the soccer field, Radwan said. “Absolutely as they all serve as team leaders and play vital roles for the team,” he said. “Matt and Scott have served as team captains this year.
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Goodwill –Alverser Drive 1211 Alverser Drive Head coach Forsan Radwan and some Rapids team members celebrate the score.
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PHOTOS BY ANJIE HENLEY
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#13 Scott Holahan uses his head to overcome Clover Hill.
737 Coalfield Road They are all like coaches in that they understand the game plan and are able to step onto the field and execute it. They also are all aware Holahan Portell that soccer is a team sport and incorporate this concept into the way they play.” This is Williams’ fourth year on the varsity squad, while the other three are in Williams their third season Shewmake with the team, Radwan said, addrience has been significant in ing that the foursome’s expe- helping the Rapids develop
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8535 Midlothian Turnpike into a cohesive unit. “The amazing thing about this team is that everyone has gelled so well together, so, in a sense, there is no nucleus,” Radwan said. “However, [the four] have all played together for many years, which definitely contributes to the team chemistry.” Holahan, Portell, Shewmake and Williams lead by example in the classroom and on the field, Radwan said.
“They all bring different things, but discipline, leadership and commitment the most as a group,” Radwan said. “These qualities are hard to find in players and the fact that I have found it in all four of them makes them a truly special group. They are true winners and fully committed to the team. They have each been a pleasure to coach and it will be very difficult to replace them in the team.”
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