WINTER PACKS AN ICY PUNCH
THE HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER OF THE COLONIAL HEIGHTS AREA
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BIG WIN FOR COLONIALS PAGE V5
Friday, January 23, 2015
FREE
COLONIAL HEIGHTS
LOCAL Winter/spring story time sessions COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Colonial Heights Public Library is offering its 2015 winter/spring story time sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Each session includes stories, music, lots of movement and a craft. Story hours are designed to help children gain important prereading skills, learn to socialize with other children, and to begin a lifelong love of books and reading. This is a family story hour, and all ages are welcome. No registration is necessary. A parent or caregiver must attend with the child. For more information, call Chantal Emerson at 804-520-9384.
Abeni Mentes Brittian, a fifth-grader at North Elementary, listens to her next word during the Colonial Heights Public Schools Spelling Bee, held Thursday, Jan. 15 at Tussing Elementary School. Winners of the three elementary schools and Colonial Heights Middle School faced off in round after round of challenging words. PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS
Spelling Bee was quite buzzworthy
Food drive COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Colonial Heights Treasurer’s Office continues to collect food for area residents in need. There is a collection box in the office and collections will be accepted through Jan. 31. Citizens and employees are asked to donate nonperishable foods as part of this effort to help the less fortunate. The Treasurer’s Office is serving as the collection point for the program and all collected items will be distributed locally, with donations going to the Colonial Heights Food Pantry. For more information about this food drive, contact Joy, Peg, Harriet, Cheryl or Shannon at 804-520-9320.
Valentine’s Concert to benefit CCHASM CHESTER — The Sweet Adelines Champion Greater Richmond Chorus will perform a Valentine’s Concert for the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Alliance for Social Ministry (CCHASM). The concert will be presented at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, in the great hall of Chester United Methodist Church, 12132 Percival St. Doors will open at 2 p.m. The concert will be open seating with a “love offering” taken to support area residents in need. This concert will be the first in a series of “Generous Hearts Concerts” sponsored by CCHASM.
Dog and cat tags available COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The deadline for purchasing City of Colonial Heights dog and cat tags from the Treasurer’s Office is Monday, Feb. 2. All dogs and cats more than 4 months old must be vaccinated against rabies and be licensed with the city. Dog and cat tags are $10 each or $2 each for spayed or neutered pets. Kennel tags are $50 for 10 or less animals and $100 for 11 or more animals. Two-year and three-year tags are also available. They can be purchased for both cats and dogs, if the rabies vaccination is good for at least the number of years from date of purchase of tag. Note: Proof of rabies and spayed or neutered animals must be presented at the time of purchase. For more information, please contact the Colonial Heights Treasurer’s Office at (804) 520-9320.
INDEX Opinion ..............V2 Police Log ..........V4
Churches ...........V5 Classified ...........V6
Vol. 12, No. 19
From Staff Reports
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Benefactor. That was the winning word for Benson Yang, a sixthgrader at Colonial Heights Middle School, in the Colonial Heights Public Schools Spelling Bee last week. Held Thursday, Jan. 15 at Tussing Elementary School, the bee challenged winners from the city’s three elementary schools and CHMS to buzz through round after round of challenging words. Also competing were Addison Rowe, a third-grader at Tussing Elementary; Abeni Mentes Brittian, a fifth-grader
at North Elementary; and Benson’s younger sibling, Zheng Li Yang, a fifth-grader at Lakeview Elementary. Although the youngest, Addison hung on for a second-place finish. Jacqueline Cook Hedblom served as pronouncer, while Beverly Cook, Leslie Fryar and Dr. Eric Shell judged the bee. SEE MORE PHOTOS ON PAGE V3.
Only Online Check out a timelapse video of the Colonial Heights Public Schools Spelling Bee, only at www.progress-index.com.
Abeni Mentes Brittian, a fifth-grader at North Elementary, listens to her next word during the Colonial Heights Public Schools Spelling Bee, held Thursday, Jan. 15 at Tussing Elementary School. Winners of the three elementary schools and Colonial Heights Middle School faced off in round after round of challenging words.
Zheng Li Yang, a fifth-grader at Lakeview Elementary, spells a word during the Colonial Heights Public Schools Spelling Bee, held Thursday, Jan. 15 at Tussing Elementary School. Winners of the three elementary schools and Colonial Heights Middle School faced off in round after round of challenging words.
COMMUNITY CLOSE-UP
Crist is supervisor of tech services at the library By Shelby Mertens Staff Writer
Susan Crist is the supervisor of technical services at the Colonial Heights Library. Q: How long have you worked at the Colonial Heights Library? “Since 1994.” Q: So you are the supervisor of tech services now, how did you get to this point? “I came to work for the city in 1986, I was in the treasurer’s office. In ‘94, I wanted a change and a friend who also worked for the city recommended this job, there was an opening just as a library assistant.” Q: Can you tell me a little bit about what you do at the library?
“We here are a team, we’re very interchangeable in our positions. I would be in charge of technical services and that includes cataloging and processing of all the books.” Q: What made you want to work for the library? “I guess you could call me one of those ‘accidental librarians’ because I was already an employee of the city. It was highly recommended by a friend that I would like working at the library, that they just had a great reputation as being a great staff and they thought it would be a good fit.” Q: What would you say would be the highlight of your job? “The people I work with. We
here at the library, we’re a very close-knit group of ladies. You would not expect us to be as close as we are. Sometimes when you have a small staff there can be animosities, but I’m very fortunate and blessed to work with a group of ladies that we all uphold each other, support each other and think of each other’s families. Also the patrons. Some days I’ll be having a bad day and I see some of my patrons and it reminds me of why I’m here.” Q: What’s your favorite book? “Oh my goodness. Presently? There’s so many. My favorite author is Ann Ross, a standout is her “Miss Julia” series. That is my hands-down all-time favorite.” Q: Do you have any other
Susan Crist
interests or hobbies outside of work? “Spending time in the Outer Banks with my family, I’m very family-oriented. I have one son, my husband and dogs. Everybody that knows me knows I love my dogs.”
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Friday, Jan. 23, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.
OPINION
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ANOTHER VIEW
15 Franklin St., Petersburg, VA 23803
Cindy Morgan ...............................Publisher Brian J. Couturier ............ Managing Editor Bob Seals .....................Circulation Director Baretta Taylor .............Advertising Director Travis Wolfrey ................Prepress Manager Ron Shifflett .............. Pressroom Manager Peggy Simon................. Business Manager
OUR VIEW
A new crop of leaders for the Tri-Cities
T
he Tri-Cities have two new mayors and one returning mayor to lead the cities of Petersburg, Colonial Heights and Hopewell. In Colonial Heights, City Council voted for six-year incumbent Councilor Gregory Kochuba to become the city’s newest mayor. The nomination came as former Mayor C. Scott Davis resigned on Jan. 1 to serve as the city’s interim director of Planning and Community Development. Councilor Diane Yates was also reappointed as vice mayor. Kochuba said that he looked forward to the challenges that the new year would bring to council, such as finding funding for a new community communications system, and closing on the Kroger grocery store project. He also stressed the importance of code enforcement. “This council is very talented. My vote is equal to everyone else’s,” Kochuba said. “I’m here to lead and direct.” In Petersburg Councilman Howard Myers, Ward 5, was appointed by council as the city’s new mayor after former Mayor Brian Moore declined another term. Councilmember Carl “Mike” Ross will serve as vice mayor. Myers said that while in the position, he would continue to promote growth, needed services and economic development and stability. “I feel elated and very happy that I was selected and will hopefully continue the great work being done in Petersburg,” he said. Myers’ plans include the renovation of Virginia Avenue School into a Health and Wellness Center by the Community Development Corporation. Myers also said that he supported Virginia State University’s renovation of the Harding Street Recreation Center into an indoor farm that will provide produce to area residents without convenient access to a grocery store. Veteran needs were a third priority stressed by Myers. Myers is a staunch supporter of The Freedom Support Center, a one-stop resource center for veterans and their families and others. Finally, in Hopewell, a pair of former mayors are returning to the top spots on City Council. Brenda Pelham of Ward 6 was appointed as mayor and Christina Luman-Bailey of Ward 1 was chosen as vice mayor. The two women will serve through Dec. 31, 2016. Pelham is a former mayor as is Luman-Bailey. “The city has made great strides in what we’ve done in the past 10 years that I’ve been on council,” Pelham said. This will be Pelham’s second time serving as mayor. Her last term as mayor was from 2008 to 2010. As the new mayor, Pelham said she hopes to continue Hopewell’s economic growth and create new education programs in Hopewell Public Schools. She also said she would like to start a mentorship program in the city to steer young people away from committing crimes. We wish all the new mayors and vice mayors well in the coming two years. We would remind them to be prudent with the taxpayers’ money but to value open, honest and transparent government.
YOUR VIEWS
What to do about the police abuse problem Following the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, the communists established a state secret police force called the Cheka. This brutal gang of thugs became the enforcers of the regime and brought misery to the multitudes through mass executions, food confiscation, imprisonment and torture in various, creative forms. Five million peasants starved to death as a result of Cheka police who were zealous in “following orders.” The Marxist-Leninist leaders actively recruited hard core felons and hired them to run their law enforcement operations. History shows, as a state becomes more fully collectivized, the police become the dominant criminals in society, backed by kangaroo courts, whereas the innocent are oppressed and condemned. All totalitarian systems employ devilish police policies including the use of false accusations and torture to trample human rights, as the US (CIA) has done overseas through our extraordinary rendition programs. What we are witnessing in America is the gradual flipping of our police from a force for good, to a force for evil. As collectivism establishes itself, greater manifestations of unAmerican activities unfold. There are, however, many good officers still among the police ranks, but I fear their numbers are shrinking as each day seems to bring more examples of brutality, abuse and outright murder by cops. One huge problem is that cops rarely “go against” other cops, even in clear cases of wrongdoing and this is only worsening the problem. Adding to that, judges also tend to almost always support unlawful police actions whether it be false charges, brutality, false arrest or false testimony by cops. It is no wonder there seems to be an us against them mentality regarding law enforcement. I can tell you of numerous, ridiculous examples, such as the arrest, beating and prosecution of Devin Thomas in Petersburg, who peacefully took video from a distance of a local arrest. Devin’s video captures the aggression and violence, eventually directed toward him, leading to a concussion and hospital visit, yet it is Devin who is being charged for resisting arrest and disorderly
conduct. It is remarkable that Colonial Heights has taken the case and I suspect some prosecutor of questionable conscience is planning to throw the book at the young, black man. Violations of citizens’ Constitutional rights are commonplace throughout Virginia, but especially throughout the poor black, urban areas, where an officer’s oath of office is often ignored. In spite of this, police abuse is becoming a serious issue among all Americans. It is now perceived by an increasing percentage of people that a police officer can murder a resident and get away with it. Sadly, I believe in a majority of such cases, this is true. Before you get all worked up, I’d like to say that I think the Michael Brown case was different because video evidence shows Brown to be in the act of a violent crime just prior to his killing in Ferguson. Other evidence seemed to be in favor of the policeman, but perhaps he could have called for backup and used a taser instead. There are countless other examples better suited for protest such as the choking death of Eric Garner in New York or the slaying of the child with a pellet gun. In almost every such case, the officer is not indicted. All the officer would have to do is convince the prosecutor or grand jury that he thought the victim had a weapon or that he was in danger. What if the same policy was applied to regular citizens who gun down people? Clearly, there is a big problem with the justice system and why is that a radical assumption? The cops and courts are on the same team! A recent Washington Post poll showed an overwhelming consensus of 87 percent who preferred independent, outside prosecutors to handle cases where cops kill unarmed citizens. This is part of the solution. In addition to the use of independent prosecutors, the use of body cameras for police might be considered, but there are privacy concerns. A 2012 study by the Institute of Criminology found that there was a 50 percent reduction in the use of force by police who used body cameras. This implies that twice as much force is being used as is necessary or legal. Where there is evidence, more officers who may have committed felonies should be indicted, for indictment
only means it goes to trial. I’d like to add that in civil cases, the measly judgments dished out to the abused needs to be much higher. Bloodsucking lawyers may not care about your rights or freedom, they care about money, and they want to be paid for going “against the system.” Judgments well into the 6-7 digits get their attention for contingency cases. Overlook the unpolished personality or youth of the victim, the monetary punishment must deal pain to those who abuse power and permit it, or the abuses will continue. We must reverse the tyranny of socialism in all its forms including the militarization of law enforcement. Training on the Constitution is needed for law enforcement officers and sheriffs. Corrupt police chiefs should be fired and rogue cops prosecuted. Whistleblowers should be protected from retribution because they are instruments of justice. It is also my concern that as police abuse increases, victimized people seeking justice, will take matters in their own hands. A breakdown in law and order may invite federal intervention, and we certainly do not want that. Leaders need to start caring about this issue because it is not going away. Pray that we return back to good morals and integrity. Corrupt judges and prosecutors should be ousted. Call the city manager and get involved with VACOPBLOCK on the Internet. —John K. Rooney,
authority over all states. (2) The same sex marriage issue is a unique case for the American judicial system. It is the first time a provision of a state constitution is pitted against an interpretation of the US Constitution. Only the US Supreme Court has the authority to interpret the US Constitution, therefore, only the US Supreme Court can resolve this matter. (3) When the Supreme Court finally rules on this matter, its ruling will affirm the ruling of several appeals courts, and reverse the ruling of several others. Therefore, none of the appeals court rulings can be “final” because the Supreme Court is going to reverse some of them. Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring should order that no more same sex marriage licenses be issued in Virginia until the US Supreme Court rules on the matter. —James N. Bridgeman,
Chester
Founders believed in religious freedom
January 16th was Religious Freedom Day and thus a great time to ponder what some of our most famous framers and founders were thinking about the vital importance of establishing and maintaining Religious Freedom in this great country we call America. “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any Tri-Cities Liberty Alliance, other.” — John Adams Petersburg “It can not be emphasized too strongly or too often that Same sex marriage in this great nation of ours was founded, not by religionists, Virginia but by Christians … not on The US Supreme Court religions, but on the gospel should take up the issue of of Jesus Christ.” — Patrick same sex marriage. Several Henry. appeals courts have issued “............Take the Bible out of rulings, but the states our schools and there would should not treat any of these be an explosion in crime.” rulings as final. The states — Benjamin Franklin should wait for the Supreme “It is impossible to rightly Court ruling before taking govern the world without any action, because the God and the Bible.” — George appeals courts do not have Washington the authority to order a state “God grants liberty only to issue a same sex marriage to those who love it, and are license. Three points: always ready to guard and (1) Under our system of defend it.” — Daniel Webster democracy, there is equal“Education is useless ity for all, both states and without the Bible.” — Noah individuals. If a same sex Webster marriage ban is unconThese great people and stitutional in one state, it many others just like them is unconstitutional in all fought and died for our Relistates. Equal treatment gious Freedom; please don’t requires that the ban be take it for granted. God bless overturned for all states at America! the same time, and only —Dawna Lee, the US Supreme Court has Mechanicsville
The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va. | Friday, Jan. 23, 2015
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YOUR NEWS HOW TO SUBMIT: Send event and contact info to newsroom@progress-index.com or The Progress-Index, 15 Franklin St., Petersburg, VA 23803
THINGS
LOOKING FOR MORE: If you can’t find what you’re looking for, find it online at www.progress-index.com
TO DO THIS
WEEKEND SATURDAY
■ The Hopewell Opti-Mrs. Club will host its 12th annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday at the Hopewell Optimist Club building, 1310 Lynchburg St., Hopewell. Open to everyone, tickets are $10 per person; eat in or take out. The meal includes spaghetti with homemade meat sauce, garlic bread, salad, homemade dessert and a beverage. The spaghetti sauce is a special recipe created by the club’s “spaghetti master”, James “Foxy” Coleman, and his assistants. All proceeds from this fundraiser go toward the club’s community outreach projects throughout the year. Tickets may be purchased in advance from any Opti-Mrs. member or by contacting Pat Steinenger at 458-2253, Viola Watson at 458-6948 or Mary Tinker at 458-8742.
■ Evening tours of Centre Hill Museum will be offered on Saturday as part of the Petersburg mansion’s annual “Ghost Watch” event. Several notable ghost stories associated with the house will be told on the evening’s guided tours. Areas of the former residence not normally accessible to the public will also be featured on the tour including the underground tunnel and the attic. The official opening of portions of the East wing will be a part of the tour for the first time. Tours will start at 6 p.m. and will leave every 15 minutes until 8:45 pm. Reservations are required and can be made by visiting Centre Hill Museum, 1 Centre Hill Ave., Petersburg, before Saturday. Tickets are $10 each. Prepayment by check or cash is encouraged. This tour is recommended for ages 12 and over. For more information, call 804-733-2401.
SUNDAY ■ The Tri-Cities Com-
munity Band will present its winter concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday in Lackey
Hall at Christ & Grace Episcopal Church, 1545 S. Sycamore St., Petersburg. The 30-member ensemble, formerly known as the RBC Community Wind Ensemble, consists of music educators, professional musicians, active and retired military bandsmen and college students, as well as lawyers, nurses, ministers, office workers and technicians. The majority of the musicians live in the Tri-Cities, as well as Richmond, Mechanicsville, Chesterfield, and Prince George. The winter concert will feature marches, patriotic music, light band classics, and music from the Broadway stage and film. The band will also premiere a new composition by Principal Cornetist, Richard Schwartz, entitled “Tribute”. The concert is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served during intermission. For more information, please call 804-520-1601 or email irisrick@aol.com. ■ An exhibit that tells the story of one of the area’s earliest settlements, Jordan’s Journey, a.k.a. Beggar’s Bush, will close on Sunday, after a special 2 p.m. performance by the Theater Company at Fort Lee at the Prince George Regional Heritage Center. That performance will depict the 1623 breach of promise suit brought by the Reverend Mr. Pooley against Cecily Jordan, recently widowed wife of Samuel Jordan. Historically, the trial is believed to have been the first breach of promise suit in North America. Fourhundred-year old artifacts found at the Jordan’s site will be on display at the Heritage Center for the final time that afternoon. The public is invited to enjoy the performance, visit the exhibit, and join the reception following, free of charge. The Heritage Center is located at 6406 Courthouse Road, Prince George County. On weekends, the Heritage Center is open from 1 to 4 p.m.
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER
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EXPLORE YOUR CREATIVE SIDE
Side Street Gallery will host art classes in January and February From Contributed Report
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Have you ever wondered if you could be inventive? Ever had an itch to explore your creative side? Well, Side Street Gallery wants to scratch the surface of that itch by offering a variety of classes, then watch
what develops once you find your artistic voice. Beginning this Saturday, the gallery, located at 127 Pickwick Ave., is hosting the following art classes in January and February: ■ Oil/Cold Wax class with instructor Marti Fann; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Class participants will learn how to mix and apply the oil and cold wax, and then develop a painting. The cost is $50.Checks should be made payable to Side Street Gallery. A supply list will be sent on request. Send request to fannart@comcast.net. ■ Collage workshop
with instructors Judy Harris and Marti Fann; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7. Class participants will be learn several collage techniques, such as texturing with stencils, making marbled papers staining and decorating
SEE ART, V4
DEADLY MIX
Winter throws Tri-City region an icy punch Early morning ice storm impacts traffic and closes all schools By Amir Vera Staff Writer
In the span of 10 hours, Virginia State Police reported an estimated 166 vehicle crashes in the region after an early morning ice storm ravaged the area. Dave Samuhel, meteorologist with AccuWeather.com, said the storm began around midnight Tuesday, Jan. 13, and produced 0.2 of an inch of freezing rain, with 0.5 inches of sleet until around 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14. “It’s a big storm for an area that’s not used to
Folks in the Tri-Cities woke up to a sheet of ice covering everything - including this sign - snarling roads and causing delays and closures of local schools and other places. PATRICK KANE/ PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS
seeing ice, like the TriCities,” Samuhel said. The storm also led to two fatalities in the region, one on Interstate 295 in Henrico where a Charles T. Vangoor Jr., 68, of Ashland, died after his car ran off the road and struck a tree. The other crash occurred on Interstate 85 in Dinwiddie
Folks in the Tri-Cities woke up to a sheet of ice covering everything, including the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bridge, snarling roads and causing delays and closures of local schools and other places.
County. Sgt. Stephen Vick, public information officer with Virginia State Police, said the crash on I-85 caused the death of Bartholomew D. Toe Sr., 52, of Highpoint, N.C. Toe was driving southbound around 2 a.m. near the
55.3 mile marker when his vehicle ran off the road to the left, swerved right, only to run off the road again to hit several trees and overturn the vehicle. Vick said Toe was dead at
SEE WEATHER, V4
SPELLING BEE From Page V1
Jacqueline Cook Hedblom greets the audience gathered for the Colonial Heights Public Schools Spelling Bee, held Thursday, Jan. 15 at Tussing Elementary School. Serving as judges were Beverly Cook, Leslie Fryar and Dr. Eric Shell.
Addison Rowe, a third-grader at Tussing Elementary, listens to a word during the Colonial Heights Public Schools Spelling Bee, held Thursday, Jan. 15 at Tussing Elementary School. Winners of the three elementary schools and Colonial Heights Middle School faced off in round after round of challenging words. Although the youngest, Rowe came in second place. PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS
(LEFT): Benson Yang, a sixth-grader, ponders his word during the Colonial Heights Public Schools Spelling Bee, held Thursday, Jan. 15 at Tussing Elementary School. Winners of the three elementary schools and Colonial Heights Middle School faced off in round after round of challenging words. Yang won and moves on to a regional competition.
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Friday, Jan. 23, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.
SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
Virginia Council on Women sponsoring STEM Essay Contest for high school junior and senior girls submissions and thanks to the generosity of sponsors, was able to award five scholarships, with the highest award winner receiving a $10,000 scholarship. Tracy Key, chair of the Council, said, “The Virginia Council on Women is proud to support young women who are breaking barriers in new and growing industries here in the Commonwealth and across the nation. This contest is
yet another tool to build a quality workforce for the future and create greater opportunities for young women in every corner of this state.” To be eligible, one must be a female who resides in Virginia, be enrolled as a junior or senior in high school and hold at least a 2.5 GPA. Applications and guidelines are available online at: http://www.commonwealth.virginia.gov/about/
council-on-women/. Entries must be submitted by Feb. 25. Essays will be judged by a panel of Council members and women who hold a degree in or work in STEM fields. Winners will be notified by March 24. The scholarship award(s) will be presented at a reception on Capitol Square in Richmond on April 15. The purpose of the Virginia Council on Women is to help women reach
their potential and maximize their contributions to society and the Commonwealth as wage earners and citizens. The Council has initiated several projects to meet this goal. One is the annual STEM essay contest for young women in high school. For more information on the Council or on available sponsorship opportunities, please visit: http://www.commonwealth.virginia.gov/about/ council-on-women/.
Melissa Dawn Scott, 38, of the 400 block of Libby Avenue, Hopewell was charged with larceny:petit on Jan. 4. Deandre J. Stephenson, 22, of the 700 block of Carver Circle, Emporia was charged with probation:violation on Jan. 4. Ioan Christian Sumner, 24, of the 400 block of Appomattox Street, Hopewell was charged with fail to appear on Jan. 4. Shannon Latoya Wran, 30, of the 2100 block of Creighton Road, Richmond was charged with larceny:shoplifting under $200 on Jan. 4. Megan Nicole Bottoms, 26, of the 1900 block of Wakefield Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with assault & battery:family member on Jan. 5. Lakish Lynette Mallory, 35, of the 200 block of Lakeview Park Road,
RICHMOND — The Virginia Council on Women is sponsoring the fourth annual STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Essay Contest for high school junior and senior girls. The Council will award one $5,000 scholarship to a female junior or senior who will be pursuing a STEM career at an
institution of higher education. Other scholarships may be awarded at the discretion of the Council. The STEM Essay Contest was launched in 2012 with 170 young ladies from across the Commonwealth submitting essays focusing on the student’s vision for a future STEM education or career. The Council raised $10,000 and made three scholarship awards. Last year, the Council received nearly 300 essay
BRIEFS
POLICE REPORT
Wine Gala & Auction
The following information was provided by the Colonial Heights Police Department. Melissa Jean Atkins, 48, of the 100 block of Moore Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with larceny:petit on Jan. 2. Ayoub F. Qaiymah, 21, of the 2100 block of Libbie Avenue, Richmond was charged with distribute contraband cigarettes on Jan. 2. Debbie Leonti Jacques, 53, of the 8800 block of Hawkbill Road, Richmond was charged with larceny:petit on Jan. 3. Carolos Juan Medina Jr., 43, of the 1800 block of Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg was charged with littering on Jan. 3. Alyssa Jeane Scott, 18, of the 7100 block of Tanquility Lane, Sutherland was charged with larceny:petit on Jan. 3. Nicoral Nemond Scott, 32, of the 100 block of St. Matthew Street,
Petersburg was charged with driving under influence; refuse breath test on Jan. 3. Carolyn M. Willis, 55, of the 18100 block of Branders Bridge Road, South Chesterfield was charged with driving under influence; refuse breath test on Jan. 3. Jody M. Allen Jr., 41, of the 9000 block of Germont Avenue, Richmond was charged with probation: violation on Jan. 4. Earl Patrick Calder, 35, of the 400 block of Libby Avenue, Hopewell was charged with larceny:shoplifting more $200 on Jan. 4. Terry Love Hurst, 39, of the 3800 block of Puddledock Road, Prince George was charged with drunk in public on Jan. 4. Mohammed K. Salem, 29, of the 800 block of Harding Street, Petersburg was charged with forgery; fraud:false pretense on Jan. 4.
Colonial Heights was charged with larceny:petit on Jan. 5. Gary Vincent Norville, 57, of the 15100 block of Bradley Bridge Road, Chesterfield was charged with fail to pay fines on Jan. 5. Kaneshia Rachelle Rose, 23, of the 19200 block of Brevard Street, Colonial Heights was charged with larceny:shoplifting more $200 on Jan. 5. Tyneisha Monee Sweets, 23, of the 1800 block of Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg was charged with larceny:petit on Jan. 5. Shanae Lateshia Wooden-Hill, 29, of the 1800 block of Sunnyside Avenue, Hopewell was charged with probation:violation on Jan. 5. Christopher Michael Brown, 21, of the 200 block of Moore Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with assault:simple on Jan. 6.
Charlton Leemon Evans, 39, of the 500 block of Azalea Road, Petersburg was charged with fail to pay fines on Jan. 6. K ay l a R e n e e Ha l l , 32, of the 2200 block of Mandalay Drive, Richmond was charged with probation:violation on Jan. 6. Richard Scott Harrison, 31, of the 10400 block of River Road, Petersburg was charged with larceny:shoplifting more $200 on Jan. 6. Jefferey Bryon Lewis, 37, of the 100 block of S 4th Avenue, Hopewell was charged with fail to appear on Jan. 6. John Barner Morrison IV, 28, of the 300 block of Ridge Road, Colonial Heights was charged with probation:violation on Jan. 6. Michael Oneal Parker, 44, of the 3700 block of Colannade Drive, Chesterfield was charged with fail to appear on Jan. 6.
WEATHER
in clear to minor condition, secondary roads were considered minor to moderate with icy patches still a threat to drivers. VDOT urged drivers to use caution when driving, especially under bridges, overpasses, shaded and low-lying areas. It’s because of the hazardous conditions that all schools in the area closed A truck is filled with ice melt and other supplies. when conditions did not Folks in the Tri-Cities woke up to a sheet of ice covimprove after an initial twoering everything, snarling roads and causing delays hour delay was announced and closures of local schools and other places. PATTuesday night. RICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO “Our crews began checking and assessing the roads anything that’s wet will cause icy patches to form on early Wednesday mornfreeze,” he said. the road by morning. The Virginia Department Later in the day, inter- ing. The slick conditions of of Transportation said the states and primary roads the roads coupled with the overnight weather could throughout the region were forecast of temperatures
not rising above freezing until this afternoon were key components in the decision to move from a school delay to closing school,” said Nicole Bell Van-Patten, public information officer with Petersburg City Public Schools. “Safety is a priority. The icy roads and sidewalks that developed this morning, made conditions unsafe for transporting our students.” Many smaller businesses in the area were also closed Wednesday. County and city governments were put on a two-hour delay. —Amir Vera may be reached at avera@progress-index.com or (804) 722-5155.
From Contributed Report
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 284 will present a Wine Gala & Auction fundraiser from 7-10 p.m. Feb. 7 at 505 Springdale Ave. Admission is a $20 donation if ticket purchased in advance; $25 at the door. The event will feature wine tastings, cheeses, hors d’oeuvres and glass of wine. There will also be music, door prizes, 50/50 raffle. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Tickets may be purchased from any Auxiliary member. Tickets are also available at EVB and Topside. Cash or check only will be accepted. All proceeds will support Auxiliary Unit 284 veteran, youth, community and education projects. For more information or reserved seating, call 337-0905.
Park Day PETERSBURG — On Saturday, March 21, Petersburg National Battlefield will participate in the Civil War Trust’s annual Park Day. People interested in volunteering to help maintain the site where the longest event of the Civil War occurred can contact Volunteer Coordinator Richard Hotchkiss at (804) 7323966, ext. 113. Projects will include trail work and general park clean-up. Volunteers should plan to meet in the parking lot of the Eastern Front Visitor Center at 8:30 a.m. Work will commence at approximately 9 a.m. and end at about 12:30 p.m. The address is: 5001 Siege Road. Civil War Trust created Park Day in 1996 and each year thousands of people volunteer in what the organization calls, “a hands-on preservation event to help Civil War battlefields and historic sites take on maintenance projects large and small”. Approximately 100 sites from coast to coast have signed up to participate this year. (Civil War Trust’s Park Day for this year is actually March 28, however, due to the 150th Anniversary events planned at Five Forks and Hopewell on the 28th, the park has chosen March 21 as the date for participation). For more information about “Park Day” visit the Civil War Trust’s web site at http://www.civilwar. org/aboutus/events/ park-day/.
From Page V3
the scene. He was wearing a seat belt. Samuhel said ice storms tend to create very dangerous driving conditions in that they produce black ice that drivers are often unaware of while traveling. “When traveling, just avoid it if at all possible, but if you must drive, be careful and drive slow,” he said. He added that temperatures on Jan. 14 were not expected to go above freezing by more than a degree. “The area will be done with precipitation, but
(Sharpies are great); glue and scissors. Checks From Page V3 should be made payable to Milly Youngblood Horner. art tissue papers and All classes will be held making geli prints. The cost is $35. Many supplies will be provided. Those taking this class are asked to bring acrylic paints and brayer. ■ Art as Meditation with instructor Milly Youngblood Horner; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday Feb. 21. Lingering time 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Class participants will take the time to relax while exploring their creative voice. Coffee and snacks will be available. The cost is $40. Class participants are asked to bring black fine line and medium markers
ART
at the Side Street Gallery. Call the gallery at 536-0011 to register. Registration is required for all classes.
The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va. | Friday, Jan. 23, 2015
V5
BIG WIN
Colonials end streak, top Crimson Wave 72-44 This was Colonial Heights’ first victory over Petersburg since 1989 By Neil Fuller Staff Writer
PETERSBURG — Noah Murdock dominated the third quarter. Jared Morgan dominated from beyond the 3-point arc. And the Colonials dominated the Crimson Wave overall. Murdock, who had three dunks and a 3 during the third quarter, had 18 points, 13 rebounds and seven blocks as Colonial Heights capped a 3-0 week with a 72-44 win over Petersburg on Friday night at William W. Lawson Jr. Gymnasium. It was the Colonials’ first victory over the Crimson Wave since 1989 — the same year pop icon Taylor Swift was born. Let that
sink in. Coach John Thomas Jr. was working for Petersburg the last time Colonial Heights came out on top in this Tri-Cities rivalry. “The thing that I wanted to bring to Colonial Heights was pride,” Thomas said. “I think our guys are starting to feel that pride about playing for their city, playing for their school and for their community.” Murdock, a 6-foot-7 forward, recorded the game-winning basket in a 53-51 win at Prince George on Jan. 13. “We had a lot of confidence from beating Prince G eorge. We came in ready,” Murdock said. “We came out and executed.” On both sides of the ball. Corey Reynolds’ driving layup capped an 8-0 run to open the second quarter, giving the Colonials a 24-11 lead. Petersburg (5-8) comm i tt e d 1 6 fi r s t - h a l f turnovers. Those miscues — added in with a
combined 16 points by Brandon Smith and Elijah Shaw — sent the Crimson Wave into intermission facing a 36-18 deficit. Petersburg was limited to three field goals during the second quarter. “That’s our thing: When we play defense, we’re hard to stop,” Thomas said. “We can force other teams to do things they don’t want to do. Defense feeds our confidence.” Morgan was feeling very confident after halftime. The 6-foot-2 forward hit three 3-pointers over the final 16 minutes and finished with 17 points. Morgan opened second-half play with back-to-back 3s. Jackson Cox added eight points and 12 rebounds and Shaw finished with 10 points as Colonial Heights (7-7) climbed back to .500. “We’ve been cutting down on our own turnovers during practices and games. I think that’s really reflected in our scores and results now,”
Colonial Heights’ Jackson Cox (34) in action against Nottoway. PROGRESS-INDEX FILE PHOTOS
said Murdock, an allVHSL volleyball player who also committed to pitch at Virginia following his freshman season with the school’s baseball team. “I think we’re moving the ball well. ... Our guards have been tremendous in leading us. A lot of people are contributing to our success.” Anthony Brown led the Crimson Wave with 11 points. It wasn’t nearly enough to turn back a
Colonial Heights’ Corey Reynolds (12) in action against Nottoway.
determined group of Colonials. Not this time. “ This win means a bunch,” Thomas said. “It’s been such a long time since Colonial Heights beat Petersburg. Our guys wanted this one tonight.” Petersburg, playing
without leading scorer Gemonta Jackson, jumped out to a 4-0 lead before Colonial Heights answered with a 14-1 run — an early punch that proved to be a knockout blow. The Colonials are idle until Matoaca visits Jan. 23.
WOODLAWN BAPTIST CHURCH
STAR SEARCH
‘Prayer Warriors’ pave the streets with prayer and praise
Swift Creek Mill to offer Summer Theatre Camps
The “Prayer Warriors” of Woodlawn Baptist Church, 3120 Woodlawn Ave., Colonial Heights, invite the public to join them at 9 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month for their monthly prayer walking. This group comes together to pray for their church, families, friends, schools, and community. Even if you are physically unable to walk, you are still invited to join this group in prayer. For more information, call the church office at 526-2179. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
NOW SHOWING
Dunlop House ‘wall of art’ to showcase work of local artists From Contributed Report
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Dunlop House is now displaying a “wall of art” for residents and visitors. Once a month a local artist will present his or her artwork at the assisted living facility, located at 235 Dunlop Farms Boulevard. This month, residents and visitors are enjoying the work of artist, John Bohrer. According to information provided by Dunlop House, Bohrer of Chester
has painted for many years. He draws his inspiration from all aspects of life. Mountains, lakes, flowers, trees and birds are included in the scenes. Most recently he has started painting portraits and has used his neighbor’s children as practice subjects. Dunlop House reports that Bohrer is happiest at his painting table unless he is on the golf course. His artwork can also be viewed at Side Street Gallery, 127 Pickwick Ave.
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From Contributed Report
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Swift Creek Mill Theatre will host the following 2015 Summer Theatre Camps: ■ 2015 Exploratory Theatre Camp will be held June 15-19 and July 20-24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The theatre exploratory camp is recommended for ages 8 to 15 (grouped by age) Fees: Full tuition is $240. Please remit a nonrefundable deposit of $25 with any application. The balance of $215 is due two weeks before the first day of camp. Tuition for a second or third sibling is $220. Tuition includes: hot lunch, music, acting, movement, and theatre enrichment classes. Theatre enrichment classes are designed to give students a better knowledge and appreciation of all aspects of theatre such as make-up, dialects, special effects, lighting, auditioning, costuming and more. On Friday afternoon at 3:30, the students will have the opportunity to take part in a variety show. Parents are invited to join us to see what their children have worked on
during the week. Camp faculty consists of area directors, music directors, singers, dancers, actors and technicians who have an interest in sharing their craft with children. ■ 2015 Performance Camp will run from August 3-14 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. This camp is a twoweek masters class in acting, singing and dancing and is recommended for ages 8-15. Fees: Full tuition is $450. Please remit a nonrefundable deposit of $50 with any application. The balance of $400 is due two weeks before the first day of camp. Sibling discount not available for Performance Camp. Students in this camp will have an intensive rehearsal process with top directors and choreographers, resulting in a vibrant production of “Seussical Jr.” performed on the Mill stage for an enthusiastic audience. A hot lunch is provided. “Seussical Jr.” will be performed August 14 and 15 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person. Applications for Swift Creek Mill’s Summer Theatre Camps are available at www.swiftcreekmill.com.
V6
Friday, Jan. 23, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.
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