Voice 031315 by The Progress-Index

FOLKLORE SOCIETY CELEBRATES PAGE V3

THE HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER OF THE COLONIAL HEIGHTS AREA

BIG TROUBLE IS COMING PAGE V4

Friday, March 13, 2015

FREE

CLEVER CANINES

LOCAL Chamber dinner COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Colonial Heights Chamber of Commerce will host its "66th Annual Dinner Meeting" on Thursday, March 19, at the Lee Club, Building 9009, Battle Drive, Fort Lee. The event begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Guest speaker will be Brett Leake, motivational comedian. Register now online at www.colonialheightschamber.com or email Roger.Green@colonialheightschamber.com

Cooking school COLONIAL HEIGHTS — For more than 10 years, the Home Builders Association of Southside Virginia has partnered with Taste of Home to bring the nationally famous cooking school to the area. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, March 28, at Colonial Heights High School, 3600 Conduit Road. The event will begin at 3 p.m. with local vendors, featuring jewelry, handbags, ﬂags, Pampered Chef, QVC products and more. The cooking school will begin at 6:30 p.m. In addition to the cooking demonstrations provided by a Taste of Home Cooking School chef, there will be plenty of door prizes. For tickets, call 804-732-2742.

Wesley Vendor Show and Sale COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Wesley United Methodist Church, located at 3701 Conduit Road, will host the Wesley Vendor Show and Sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 21 at the church. The public is invited to join the congregation for "fellowship, refreshments, friendship and fun". All proceeds from this event will support missions of the UMW.

Tax preparation assistance COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Free tax preparation assistance for seniors is being offered at the Colonial Heights Public Library now through April 14, by appointment only. Appointments with a trained volunteer are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., and 1 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call the library at 520-9384.

Community blood drive COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The city's Parks and Recreation Department's Senior Center is hosting a community blood drive in conjunction with Virginia Blood Services. The blood drive will take place on Thursday, March 19, from 1 to 4:45 p.m. at the Community Center, 157 Roanoke Ave. If you are interested in being a donor, contact Elaine Thompson at (804) 520-9220 or by email at thompsone@colonialheightsva. gov to select a time slot.

Retired School Personnel to meet COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Colonial Heights Retired School Personnel will meet at 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, at Tussing Elementary School, 5501 Conduit Road. Don Schmidt will present a program on "The Early History of Virginia - from Jamestown to Richmond, and All in Between". For more information about this program, contact Kathy Thompson at 520-2302.

INDEX V2 ............. Opinion V4 ...........Police Log

V6..Church directory V7.......... Classiﬁeds

Vol. 12, No. 25

Breyden, an 11-year-old Labrador Retriever, listens to Jacqueline Stein, 9, read a story. The Clever Canines visit the library to give kids a judgement-free zone to encourage literacy.

DOG DAYS AT THE LIBRARY From Staff Reports

COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Myah Reyes, 6, cheerfully read a picture book Monday night at the library. The only unusual thing was who was listening to her ﬂip through the pages: Breyden, an 11-year-old Labrador Retriever. Breyden and his pal Tucker — a 5-year-old Great Dane — lent their big ears to Myah and other area children Monday night at the Colonial Heights Public Library. The Clever Canines visit the library to offer kids a judgement-free zone for improving reading skills. Mom Tisheena Reyes said Myah is always chomping at the bit to read a good book to anyone who will stay still. Breyden, relaxing on a red blanket, was a great listener. “She likes reading to everybody — because she wants a little brother or sister — so she practices with everyone,” Reyes said. “Her dolls. Her cousins. We’re gonna keep her doing this thing.” Tucker, who has been listening to kids in the Clever Canines for four years, will listen to any type of book, said owner Julie Bowles. His favorite kind of book? “Anything that has dogs in it,” she said.

Tucker, a Great Dane, and Breyden, a Labrador Retriever, listen to kids reading stories Monday night at the Colonial Heights Public Library.

Susan Brafford and Breyden, an 11-year-old Labrador Retriever, listen to Myah Reyes, 6, read a story Monday night at the Colonial Heights Public Library. The Clever Canines visit the library to give kids a judgement-free zone to encourage literacy.

COMMUNITY CLOSE-UP

Elyse Richey, Colonial Heights High School, aka Queen Elsa Staff Report

Queen Elsa reads to students at Lakeview Elementary School Wednesday, March 4. Elyse Richey portrayed the character from the-popular ‘Frozen’ to publicize a fundraiser for the Colonial Heights High School International Thespian Society. PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX

COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Elementary schoolers in the city visited with royalty this week, as Queen Elsa of Arendelle (from the wildly-popular 2013 movie 'Frozen') read 'Go Dog, Go' and other Dr. Seuss books with them. Elyse Richey, a Colonial Heights High School junior involved in the International Thespian Society, portrayed the snow queen to help share the word about a ﬁlm screening fundraiser event

held on Saturday. Q: As a snow queen, why have you brought so much snow to Colonial Heights lately? A: I am gonna apologize for that! (My sister) Anna didn't do the dishes! Anna made me angry and that's what you get. Q: Why did you all decide to do an event with "Frozen?" A: The movie will be supporting students (Jeremiah Lucas, Kayla Banks and Casey Ridpath) going to the International Thespian Society national conference

in Nebraska. We need to fund raise to send them there. It's the winter season. There's still snow everywhere! We thought it would be a fun movie to watch with the family. Q: Breaking character, tell us bit about yourself. A: I'm a junior. I've been in the drama club since freshman year. I love drama, I might want to be an actor when I grow up. Q: What do you, personally, like about "Frozen?" A: I like how strong of a person Elsa is. She's the ﬁrst Disney princess with anxiety, so that's pretty cool.

Friday, March 13, 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 Jamila Khalil ...............Advertising Director Travis Wolfrey ............ Operations Manager Ron Shifflett .............. Pressroom Manager Peggy Simon................. Business Manager

OUR VIEW

Saucy’s cooking up barbecue and business

here are two things we really appreciate: a homegrown business success story - and good barbecue. And Saucy’s Walk-up in Petersburg is that delicious combination of the two. For the past four and a half years Saucy’s Walk-up has been a growing presence on the local eatery scene. It has been such a hit that it has become a nationally renowned barbecue stand that started out in a shipping container at the corner of Bollingbrook and Fifth Street in September 2010. And now it has its own dine-in restaurant known as Saucy’s Sit-down that opened Jan. 8. “This is a really big thing, we went from having ﬁve people on staff at the walk-up to overnight having 15 people on staff just to work this restaurant,” said owner Tom McCormack. The story of Saucy’s began in 2001 when McCormack and his pal Erich Wolfgang, the current pitmaster, were on a cross-country tour with their band, Mean Flower. Wolfgang said that it was during this tour between 2001 and 2002 that they were exposed to the different types of barbecue across the country. Wolfgang, who at the time barbecued for fun, eventually would try to imitate and improve on the different regional sauces he had experienced on the road. Then in 2002, McCormack and his wife, Elizabeth, moved to Petersburg from Richmond. At the time, the couple were in the real estate business restoring homes in Old Towne. McCormack knew Wolfgang loved to cook, and both had experience in construction and renovation, so McCormack approached his friend with the idea of starting a barbecue restaurant. “I saw a need for barbecue in the area,” McCormack said. “The original idea was to open it in a shipping container just in case something didn’t work out. We could shut that thing down and store our bikes in it.” It turned out things did work out. After four months of welding a shipping container to look like a mobile restaurant, Saucy’s Walk-up opened for operation on Sept. 26, 2010, with just McCormack, Wolfgang and each of their wives working. As they say, the rest is history. In 2012, Saucy’s was featured in Southern Living magazine’s “The South’s Best Butt: 20 of the Best Barbecue Joints in the South.” Since then, Saucy’s has enjoyed success in food, customer service and architecture. McCormack said his wife actually designed the interior of Saucy’s Sit-down, which used to be a car repair shop. He and everyone else built everything on the inside from the tables to the barstools from scratch. As for future plans, McCormack said he wants to go slow. He said he plans to open up more Saucy’s Walk-up containers around the region but that there are no plans, for now, to open up another dine-in restaurant. Make no doubt, things are cooking at Saucy’s.

YOUR VIEW

Family farms and federal regulations For years, I’ve headed to the Virginia Diner to meet with my Farmers Advisory Board, a group of Fourth District family farmers who counsel me on issues that are impacting the agricultural industry. It’s a fitting spot – the Virginia Diner is surrounded by farmland, nestled right in the heart of the Fourth District’s agricultural industry. We come to our Advisory Board meetings hungry, not just for those buttermilk biscuits, but for answers to challenges farmers face every day. Like many other industries, our farmers face significant challenges and the need for practical solutions. But unlike other industries, family farms find themselves in a unique spot. Farmers are business owners. They care about growing their farms – they want to be the most efficient and most productive at what they do. Most farmers also have a deep appreciation for their land. About 90 percent of Virginia farms are owned and operated by individuals or families, so many of these farmers have worked their land for years. They know their plots inside and out, and they care about the proper treatment of the environment and resources around them. Our farmers also contribute to the strength of their communities. They look for new ways to nourish the surrounding regions with their food supplies. American farmers truly labor at the intersection of innovation, business, food supply, and environmental management. And every day, and increasingly more year after year, our farmers face the burden of unbridled regulations. Many of the conversations my Farmers Advisory Board and I have around those red-checkered tables at the Virginia Diner fall on the topic of regulations. Farmers tell me how federal mandates force them to choose what kinds and amounts of crops to grow, not based on business decisions, but on government demands. They tell me how regulations have hampered their ability to reinvest in their farms because they have to keep up with the cost of fuel, permit, and machinery requirements. In fact, when you look at the list of regulations facing farmers, it’s incredible the red tape they have to untangle just for the regular, daily operation of a farm. There are rules regulating the flow of agriculture products into the market, including the way they are labeled and advertised. There are rules regulating natural farm dust and other normal activities of farming, which are classified as “particulate matter” and defined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as pollution. There are rules requiring farmers to implement expensive and often unnecessary infrastructure improvements to comply with storage regulations. There are rules requiring farmers to implement lengthy spill prevention plans. There are rules for inspecting,

sampling, and testing seeds. There are rules for what abbreviations can be used in labeling seeds. There are rules for livestock feeding operations. There are rules that limit the way crop producers can utilize crop protection chemicals to fight against invasive species that threaten their production yields. There are rules regarding how farms must respond to natural farm byproducts that have moved due to normal rainfall or snowmelt. There are rules that require costly containment facilities and infrastructure improvements. These are just a few. To be fair, not all regulations are bad, nor were they intended to create undue hardship for our farmers. We need common sense regulations that protect human health. We need regulations that provide for safety, protect our environment, and ensure the humane treatment of animals. However, too many of these regulations are duplicative, overly stringent, and create unintended consequences. The result is costly mandates on our farmers that lead many to consider leaving the occupation they love and have lived – many of them for generations. It is why many farmers tell me that now either their children have opted out of a farming career, or the farmers themselves told their children not to follow in their footsteps. In Virginia, agriculture is our largest industry. It has an economic impact of $52 billion annually and provides more than 311,000 jobs in the commonwealth, according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture. However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released a report earlier this month stating that net income for farmers is expected to fall by nearly 32 percent this year as prices for some crops remain low and expenses creep higher. We cannot afford to allow federal regulations to drag down such an important pillar in our economy nor contribute to our facing a day when we rely as heavily on foreign countries for our food as we do oil. As we work to rein in federal regulations all around, we also have to start chipping away at burdensome farm regulations. That’s why I’ve supported legislation like the Farmers Undertake Environmental Land Stewardship Act, or the FUELS Act, which requires regulations be revised to reflect a farmer’s spill risk and financial resources. I have engaged the Secretary of Agriculture to provide flexibility for farmers seeking to protect their livestock from predators like the Black Vulture. I have also cosponsored the Waters of the U.S. Regulatory Overreach Protection Act to prevent agencies like the EPA and the Army Corps from heaping new regulatory burdens onto the shoulders of our already overburdened agriculture community. These are small steps, but ones that will make a big difference in the lives of American farmers. Although many of us may be several generations removed from the daily upkeep of a family farm, we are all very much connected to the agricultural industry through our food

supply and our economy. For years, our farmers have led us in a commitment to community, a love for our environment and countryside, and a resolve to work hard and succeed. It’s our turn to empower family farms to continue to lead the way. Congressman Randy Forbes R-4th District Chesapeake, Va.

Pipelines would solve issue of oil trains derailing The Saturday Feb 28, 2015 article: “Wrecks Add Pressure for Tougher Safety,” though I understand this was not written by Progress-Index reporters, but was an Associated Press article, I’d like to comment. Both the AP title and entire content was based on a false premise — that oil must move by train and if so the railroads must pay economically unsustainable costs to reduce derailments and use safer tank cars. We know from decades of empirical evidence, that the most volume of oil, with the safest delivery record, is via a pipeline, not by railroad. Yet President Obama and a vast majority of elected Democrats and environmental zealots refuse to allow for pipeline expansion in the USA. The railroads would be ﬁne with losing this “rolling pipeline” business for, at minimum, two reasons: 1. The costs they are experiencing from derailments of oil is becoming more trouble in dollar and PR expense then the revenue received is worth, and 2. Every tank car of oil prevents a rail car of food items, valuable minerals, general merchandise, etc…as rail track capacity is at over 100 percent (primarily because of the long oil trains). Just as we must use more nuclear power plants (vs. coal) to maximize electrical production, so must we use more pipelines to move crude oil. I will pray for a Republican president, in 2016, to get these pipelines built. Under Democratic leadership, it will not happen. Jesse L. Harrup Jr Colonial Heights

Thanks to the good Samaritan who shoveled her driveway What a pleasure to write a thank-you letter for kindness. A good Samaritan lives anonymously in my neighborhood. When I got up this morning, I found my driveway had been thoroughly cleared of snow. I had not expected anything like this. Whoever you are, please accept this very genuine thanks. Joan G. Bice Petersburg

Worthless watchdogs Thieves that come in the night know that watchdogs that can be paciﬁed with fresh pork are worthless. We like our watchdogs unfriendly and unﬂinching when dangerous individuals approach. Ronald C. Uehara Petersburg

The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va. | Friday, March 13, 2015

YOUR NEWS THINGS TO DO THIS

WEEKEND FRIDAY  Petersburg will host its Friday for the Arts! celebration Friday evening in the city’s historic Old Towne area. This monthly event has become a comprehensive celebration of the arts, with 20 or more venues spreading the arts across many blocks. Galleries, museums, restaurants and shops feature changing exhibits. The event also includes music, ranging from classical concerts to the blues to rollicking rock. Among the many exhibits and music offerings this month, the Petersburg Area Art League will feature “Speak,” a mixed media show of wood, paintings and jewelry reﬂecting the three artists’ connection with what they hear from the natural and spiritual worlds. The Main Gallery will feature a collection of wood carvings by Reverend Clyde Johnson Sr. The Virginia Linen Service’s Members’ Gallery will display paintings by local artist Valerie Daniels and wearable art by jewelrymaker Dr. Cynthia Owens. Friday for the Arts! gallery shows at PAAL start at 6 p.m., and there will be light refreshments.

FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY  For sports fans, Shepherd Stadium will host the University of Pennsylvania vs. University of Richmond Spiders - NCAA Division I College Baseball this weekend. Friday game time is 1 p.m.; Saturday game time is 1 p.m. and Sunday game time is noon. Admission is free. Shepherd Stadium is located at 901 Meridian Ave., Colonial Heights. For more information, call the Colonial Heights Recreation and Parks Department, 804-520-9392.

SATURDAY  For those of us who love a good yard sale, the public is encouraged to hunt for bargains while supporting a good cause this Saturday. The “Think Spring” indoor yard sale will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Disputanta Ruritan Hall, 8961 County Drive, in the Disputanta area of Prince George County. This is a fundraiser to beneﬁt the Prince George Regional Heritage Center. Let’s party. The City of Petersburg’s Department of Cultural Affairs, Arts and Tourism, along with the Department of Public Works is hosting Petersburg’s ﬁrst Saint Patrick’s Day celebration on Saturday in Old Towne near the Farmer’s Market and Petersburg Area Art League. The event is free and open to the public and will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This event is rain or shine. There will be live music, children’s activities, such as face painting, sack races, bean bag toss and parachute games, in “Leprechaun Land”, located at PAAL’s site. Visitors can also start their day out with walking tours through Old Towne sponsored by Historic Petersburg Foundation in coordination with the Old Town Visitor Center. Tours will begin every 30 minutes starting at 9 a.m. near the Farmer’s Market and the last tour ends at noon. This event will include a beer garden.

Folklore society hosts cultural event

member of the Elegba Folklore Society leads an interactive presentation sharing oral histories, images, music and ceremony of the native inhabitants of the African continent. She tells how those elements contributed to the rest of the world’s cultures at the Chester Library on Saturday, Feb. 28. SCOTT P. YATES/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO

HEALTHY LEARNING

Colonial Heights Public Schools offers Early Childhood Program for 4-year-olds The deadline to apply is April 30 From Contributed Report

COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Colonial Heights Public Schools offers a prekindergarten program for 4-year-old children. The goal of the program is to provide a healthy learning environment for children whose social or economic conditions may place them at risk for poor school performance. Selection

of students will be based on family need according to program guidelines for the Virginia Preschool Initiative. Enrollment priority will be given to children with the greatest number of factors impacting their environment. Factors considered include:  Income level of the parent/legal guardian  Education level of the parents  Child characteristics (example – non-English speakers)

 Family stress (example – parent deceased) The class will be housed at Lakeview Elementary School, 401 Taswell Ave., but will serve children from each of the three elementary school attendance zones. It will operate on the same calendar and school schedule as the elementary schools. The program will be limited to 18 students. This is not a ﬁrst-come, first-served program. To be eligible for the program, children must be legal residents of Colonial

Heights and be 4 years of age by Sept. 30, 2015. Applications must be ﬁlled out completely. Proof of residency and financial information must be attached in order for the applicant to be considered for the program. Families will be required to attend meetings and field trips with their child in this program. For more information about the program, contact Haidee Napier, assistant superintendent of instructional services,

524-3400, ext. 14 or Doris Swearingen, instructional secretary, 524-3400, ext. 11. Applications are available at all elementary schools: Lakeview, North, Tussing, and the Schools Administration Offices at 512 Boulevard or online at www.colonialhts.net. Applications should be returned to any elementary school or the Schools Administration Offices. The deadline for returning applications is April 30.

meet from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the second Saturday of the month at Chester Christian Church, located at 4330 Curtis St., Chester. For more information, call 804- 681-0131. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2239, 14705 Jefferson Davis Highway, holds bingo each Saturday. Doors open at 5 p.m. and games begin at 7. There are six to eight chances to win $500 or more. Food is available. For directions or questions about this event, call 748-4896 and ask for Tom Gore. For information about VFW membership or other activities, call Tom Ferguson, 748-4896.

(access through North Market Street in the large parking lot. The doors are at the top of the ramp). Call 24/7 for the AA hot line and more information, 452-1959.

holds bingo every Monday. Doors open at 5 p.m., and games start at 7. Food is available for a nominal fee. For directions, or information about membership requirements or activities of the American Legion, visit http://mysite.verizon.net/legion284 or call 526-5656. PETERSBURG — Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held each Monday at 10 a.m at Second Presbyterian Church, 419 W. Washington St. (round the back come upstairs). Meetings are also held at 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at the TriCity Club, located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in the rear of the building, (access through North Market Street in the large parking lot. The doors are at the top of the ramp). Call 24/7 for the AA hot line and more information, 452-1959. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Colonial Heights Triad will meet from 1-2 p.m. Monday at the Community Building. TRIAD is a partnership consisting of the local Public Safety Office, seniors, and senior service providers who work to prevent the victimization of Seniors. It is run by S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

FRIDAY, March 13 DINWIDDIE — Al-Anon Family Groups for family and friends of alcoholics meets from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. each Friday at Kenwood United Methodist Church, 25200 Ritchie Ave., Petersburg. For more information, call 733-7395. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — American Legion Post 284, 505 Springdale Road, holds bingo every Friday. Doors open at 5 p.m., and games start at 7. Food is available for a nominal fee. For directions, or information about membership requirements or activities of the American Legion, visit the Post 284 website, http://mysite.verizon. net/legion284 or call 526-5656. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The National Alliance on Mental Illness Connection Recovery Support program meets 1 to 2:30 p.m. each Friday in the conference room at the Colonial Heights Library, 1000 Yacht Basin Drive. Groups meet for 90 minutes and offer a structured group process designed to encourage, support and empower. All diagnosis welcome. For more information, contact Gina at 804-605-5010 or towritegina@yahoo.com. PETERSBURG

— Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held each Friday at 10 a.m. at: Second Presbyterian Church, 419 W. Washington St. (round the back come upstairs). Meetings are also also held at 5:30 p.m. each Monday-Friday at the TriCity Club, located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in the rear of the building, (access through North Market Street in the large parking lot. The doors are at the top of the ramp). Call 24/7 for the AA hot line and more information, 452-1959. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The local chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) will meet from noon to 2:30 p.m. Friday at the Community Building. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The monthly Seniors Dance with music by The Antiques will be held from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday at the Community Building. This dance is held on the second Friday of each month. The cost is $6 per person. Refreshments are sold for an additional fee.

SATURDAY, March 14 CHESTERFIELD — The Tri-City Virginia Chapter of Newborns In Need will

SUNDAY, March 15 COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Colonial Heights Moose Lodge 1783, 170 Moose Ave., holds bingo every Sunday. Doors open at 4 p.m. Bingo starts at 6 p.m. Food is available for a nominal fee. For directions, visit the website at www.chmoose.com or call 526-1537. PETERSBURG — Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. at the Tri-City Club, located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in the rear of the building,

MONDAY, March 16 PETERSBURG — The Disabled American Veterans Petersburg Chapter 47 will hold its next meeting on Monday at the American Legion Post 2, 820 Winﬁeld Road. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting begins at 7. All military veterans who have been wounded, gassed, injured or disabled in line of duty during time of war is invited. For more information, visit the DAV Petersburg Chapter 47 web site: www. davmembersportal.org/ chapters/va/47. The DAV meets the third Monday of the month. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The "Colonial Square Dancers," a nonproﬁt organization, meets from 7-9 p.m. each Monday at the Colonial Heights High School cafeteria on Conduit Road. Square dancers and visitors are welcome. For more information, call 804-720-2340. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — American Legion Post 284, 505 Springdale Road,

SEE CALENDAR, V6

Friday, March 13, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.

POLICE LOG

EFFECTIVE JULY 1

COLONIAL HEIGHTS

Budget amendment puts brakes on speed traps

The following information was provided by the Colonial Heights Police Department:  Devan Avery-Saxton Bailey, 22, of the 1200 block Harrison Creek Boulevard, Petersburg was charged with fail to appear on Feb. 3.  Kenya Clarita Coleman, 18, of the 400 block of Mars Street, Petersburg was charged with probation:violation on Feb. 3.  Aleacia Faye Combo, 43, of the 1500 block of N. Halcun Drive, Petersburg was charged with larceny:shoplifting more $200 on Feb. 3.  Kelvin Dewitt Goode, 55, of the 20500 block of Church Road, S. Chesterfield was charged with falsely ID self to law enforcement; identity fraud; forgery:public records on Feb. 3.  Wanda Odessa Johnson, 45, of the 2200 block of Boydton Plank Road, Warfield was charged with probation:violation on Feb. 3.  Demonte Jones, 18, of the 1400 block of Miles Avenue, Hopewell was charged with assault:simple on Feb. 3.  Tracy Glover Lamm, 51, of the 300 block of Yorktown Drive, Colonial Heights was charged with fail to appear on Feb. 3.  Chad Edward Moore, 19, of the 3500 block of East Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with assault & battery:family member; strangulation; vandalism; prevent le from lawful arrest on Feb. 3.  David Christopher Shelton, 21, of the 15900 block of Gary Avenue, Chester was charged with probation:violation on Feb. 3.  Melvin A. Wilson Jr., 25, of the 24000 block of Sequoia Road, Dinwiddie was charged with embezzlement on Feb. 3.  Thomas Derick Barnet, 47, of the 2500 block of Jupiter Road, Prince George was charged with fugitive from justice on Feb. 4.  Phillip William Boyce Jr., 23, of the 100 block of Essex Road, Colonial Heights was charged with drunk in public; larceny:shoplifting more $200 on Feb. 4.  Terrell Jermaine Brown, 35, of the 8000 block of Hickory Road, S. Chesterfield was charged with open container of alcohol on Feb. 4.  William Clifton Deas, 84, of the 200 block of Cameron Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with allow K9 to run at large; possess unvaccinated dog/cat on Feb. 4.

Information is provided by police and sheriff 's departments. This information may or may not be all inclusive. Arrests include summons. Arrests do not imply guilt.

By Sean CW Korsgaard Capital News Service

RICHMOND — The highway through Hopewell may not be paved in gold, but that hasn’t stopped the city from making a mint off it. Ta k i n g a d v a n t a g e of a two-mile stretch of Interstate 295 that passes through the city, the Hopewell Sheriff ’s Department issues about 1,000 speeding tickets a month, according to AAA, the advocacy group for motorists. It says the speed trap generates over $1.8 million annually for Hopewell's city government. But a state budget amendment approved by the General Assembly would help curb such practices by Hopewell and other localities, AAA says. The amendment reduces the ﬁnancial incentive for local police to write excessive numbers of tickets. “This amendment adjusts the formula by which local collections of fines and fees based on local ordinances may not exceed a certain threshold

Patrols of Interstate 295 by the Hopewell Sheriff’s Office are again in the crosshairs of AAA and Virginia lawmakers, who passed a new budget to curb local income from tickets. PROGRESS-INDEX FILE PHOTOS

of the total collections of fines and fees beginning in ﬁscal year 2016,” according to a legislative note explaining the amendment. AAA Mid-Atlantic, which serves more than 3.4 million members from New Jersey to Virginia, has made Hopewell’s “Million Dollar Mile” the focal

point of its effort against “policing for proﬁt.” Currently, localities must return a portion of excess fine revenues to Virginia’s Literary Fund, which supports public education. Hopewell, for example, this year had to give the Literary Fund $86,000 – twice as much as any other

locality, according to the Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts. However, under the existing formula, the amount of money that localities must remit is so small that it has little impact curbing “policing for proﬁt,” AAA says. A new formula was included in House Bill

1400, a package of state budget amendments approved in late February by the General Assembly. It is contained in amendments 3-6.05 #1c and 37 #1c, which were initially proposed by Sen. Charles Carrico, R-Galax, and Del. Matthew James, D-Portsmouth. The new methodology will lower the threshold for determining whether local ﬁne collections are excessive and will require localities to remit more of that money to the Literary Fund. The new formula will take effect July 1. AAA lobbied for the amendment. It sent emails to its 200,000 Virginia members, with a link to send emails to Virginia lawmakers – in particular to budget conferees – “to let them know policing for profit shouldn’t be happening, and to please shut it down.” “AAA has advocated for the safety of the traveling public for over a century and does not wish to condone speeding in any way,” said Martha Mitchell Meade, manager of public

SEE TRAPS, V5

NEW DISTILLERY

Big Trouble Malting coming to Petersburg By Leah Small Staff Writer

PETERSBURG — Big Trouble Malting and Spirits shows that for once, a little bit of trouble isn’t such a bad thing, especially when it comes to economic development in Petersburg. Gov. Terry McAuliffe announced March 4 that the local company will be opening a malting and distilling facility at 230 E. Bank St. Developer Dave McCormack and Prince George farmer Tony Kvasnicka, have pledged to purchase over 40,000 bushels of barley, wheat, rye and fruit from Virginia farmers for the venture. All distillery feed stock will come from Virginia.

grant, which will be matched by the city. Big Trouble will also invest a little under $1 million into the project, which is expected to create nine jobs. McAuliffe said that the distillery is a perfect storm for what moves economic development forward. “This brings in manufacturing, this brings in producing, entrepreneurship, this is going to help tourism, which is great,” On March 4, Gov. Terry McAuliffe speaks during he said. "So it’s got all of an event announcing that Big Trouble Malting and the elements.” Spirits will be coming to Old Towne Petersburg. The The facility will produce business represents a $1 million investment and will enough malted barley use Virginia agricultural products. for use in McCormack’s PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO planned 30-barrel brewT h e g o v e r n o r w a s facility. ery and for sale. A small joined by city, state and McAuliffe presented Big store offering tastings will Virginia State University Trouble with a $50,000 also be on site. The $5 milofficials for the announce- Agriculture and Forestry lion brewery is expected to ment on March 4 at the Industries Development open in April 2016, while

the malting and distilling facility is scheduled to open this summer or fall. McCormack said that malted barley, which is a prime ingredient ingredient in beer, is in high demand by Virginia’s craft beer industry. Kvasnicka will provide the first crop of barley for production, with plans to expand to more local farmers. Kvasnicka approached McCormack with the proposal for the facility. He spoke of the beneﬁts of the project for local farmers. “I’m really excited to partner with this team that Dave has brought together to ensure that small farmers like myself have an opportunity to

SEE TROUBLE, V5

YEAR-LONG PROGRAM

James River Association accepting applications Inaugural leadership academy encourages high school students to apply before April 10 deadline From Contributed Report

The James River Association is now accepting applications for the James River Leadership Academy, a year-long environmental leadership program for 10th and 11th grade high school students who are passionate and committed to protecting the future of Virginia’s natural resources. The program consists of a leadership development and skill building curriculum that will equip participants with tools, methods, and resources to become leaders for the

environment. “For many years the James River Association has contributed to outdoor and environmental education experiences for students, so we created the concept of a leadership program to answer the question of ‘what’s next’ for the future of the James,” said Bill Street, CEO for the James River Association. “The program is designed to encourage, inspire and provide young people with the resources necessary to become the next generation of environmental leaders.”

The James River Leadership Academy will occur over the course of four Leadership Sessions. Topics covered will include skill building workshops, group discussions, team building exercises, environmental ethics, and outdoor appreciation. Over the course of these Leadership Sessions, students will design an Action Project to implement within their community to put their new skills into practice. This project will be led by individual students with guidance from professional mentors. The culmination of the year-long program is the Gerald P. McCarthy Environmental Youth Symposium which will

highlight, share, and build momentum around students’ community-based Action Projects. The James River Association is now accepting applications for the 2015-2016 James River Leadership Academy. To download the application, visit www.jamesriverassociation.org. The deadline to apply is April 10. For more information, contact Georgia Busch, Watershed Educator, at (804) 788-8811 ext. 214 or gbusch@jrava.org. T h e Ja m e s R i v e r Association (JRA) is

a member-supported nonprofit organization founded in 1976 to serve as a guardian and voice for the James River. Throughout the James River’s 10,000-square mile watershed, JRA works through its core programs – Education, Outreach, Watershed Restoration, River Advocacy and the Riverkeeper Program – to help people of all ages enjoy, appreciate and protect the beauty and health of the James River for future generations to enjoy. For more information on JRA visit www. jamesriverassociation.org.

The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va. | Friday, March 13, 2015

COLONIAL HEIGHTS

City Schools’ proposed budget could include raises for teachers

A public hearing on the draft budget is scheduled for March 24 By Leah Small Staff Writer

COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Teachers could have more green in their pockets with a possible salary increase ahead, and more favorable health insurance renewals than previously

REGIONAL CAMPAIGN

Save the date: Kindergarten Registration is April 16

expected. During a March 4 budget work session, officials continued drafting the 2016-2017 schools budget, without a previously projected 13-percent increase for health insurance renewals. Superintendent Joseph Cox had factored the high renewal cost into his Jan. 27 preliminary budget presentation. The initial presentation estimated cuts of as much as $881,196 due to the health

insurance increases, general insurance increases and federal expenditures. Now, teachers won’t see an increase in their health insurance premiums for the upcoming ﬁscal year. School officials stated that the favorable insurance renewal may even give the division a little wiggle room to provide a salary increase. The raise could also be partially funded by a 1.5 percent salary increase approved

by the General Assembly for teachers. But in an interview following the meeting, Maria Yencha, director of ﬁnance and budget, said that the division would be faced with sustaining the raise in following ﬁscal years, with different state funding and insurance renewals. In the Jan. 27 meeting, Cox said that since 2008, the division has worked to increase benefits and compensation.

Employees received a 2.3 percent cost of living raise and a step pay raise in 2008-2009 and there was a 2 percent one-time payment in 2010-2011. There was a 5 percent Virginia Retirement System pay increase in 2012-2013 and a 2 percent cost of living raise in 2013-2014. He also said that there was another $1.5 million in health care cost increases. The division is continuing work on the budget

as it waits for more ﬁnalized numbers from the state. The next budget work session is scheduled for March 16. The school board will present its ﬁnalized budget to the city by the end of March. A public hearing on the draft budget is scheduled for March 24. –Leah Small may be reached at 722-5172 or lsmall@progress-index. com

Fort Lee soldiers return from Afghanistan

From Contributed Report

Becoming a successful, productive adult starts at birth. One of the biggest milestones in that journey is starting school ready to succeed. Thursday, April 16, marks the ﬁfth annual Regional Kindergarten Registration Campaign, coordinated by Smart Beginnings Greater Richmond. Children who are 5 years old by September 30th can start kindergarten in the fall, but first they need to be registered. Kindergarten registration is Thursday, April 16, for all public schools in the Richmond and Petersburg region, including the Tri-Cities. Parents can register their child at the local elementary school in their attendance zone. To ﬁnd the attendance zone in your area, visit www. readychildren.net or call "211." Kindergarten registration times for April 16 are:

 Colonial Heights: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Petersburg: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Hopewell: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.  Dinwiddie County: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Prince George County: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

There is quite a bit of paperwork needed to register a child for kindergarten, and pulling everything SEE REGISTRATION, V6

TROUBLE From Page V4

to weather the ups and downs of the commercial markets,” he said. Todd Haymore, secretary for Agriculture and Forestry for Virginia, also spoke of the growth of the craft brewing industry in Virginia. He said that the state is home to over 260 cideries and wineries, 100 craft breweries and 20 craft distilleries. Not only will the project enlist the efforts of local farmers, it will rely on the expertise of VSU’s College of Agriculture for best growing practices and other collaborative work. McCormack said that the project was a

Staff Sgt. Kiana Brash gives huge mommy-missed-you hugs to her triplets, Sydney, Kylie and Aydn, at Clark Fitness Center on Fort Lee March 4. Brash was among 41 soldiers who returned home after a six-month tour in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO From Staff Reports

FORT LEE — A 41-member detachment of mortuary affairs soldiers was welcomed home March 4 just before midnight at Clark Fitness Center on Fort Lee. The soldiers spent the past six months in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. "These soldiers have traveled over 7,000 miles over the past 24 hours to get back to us safe and sound today, so please join me in a round of applause for all they have done," said Lt. Col. David Vandevander, 82nd Sustainment Brigade commander

in his welcoming remarks. "Let's also take a moment to recognize the families in our audience tonight," he continued. "We truly thank you for your steadfast support and sacrifice. Although you don't wear the uniform, we do know that you shoulder the burden, and we recognize the fact that it's just as hard waiting at home as it is deploying downrange." The troops were told to relax and enjoy their time at home. With the announcement, "this concludes our ceremony," families and fellow troops flooded onto the floor for hugs and handshakes with the returning soldiers.

Family members and fellow troops waited at Clark Fitness Center until nearly midnight March 4 to welcome their loved ones and friends home from Afghanistan. A 41-member detachment of mortuary affairs soldiers were returning from a six-month deployment as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

IN BRIEF

Colonial Christian Church pastor visits Holy Land step toward realizing a vision for what the area surrounding the facility can become. “When I look around in this particular neighborhood it wasn’t that long ago there was nothing going on,” he said. “It was barbed wire and broken down buildings.” The developer said that as of the end of 2016, his Waukeshaw development company will have invested $60 million in Petersburg. McCormack is known for development projects such as Mayton Transfer lofts and Demolition Coffee and most recently the Nash building. McCormack purchased 230 E. Bank St. 10 years ago. The distillery will join a list of several businesses that have operated

COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Rev. Allan Little, pastor of Colonial Christian Church (Disciples

at the location. In the 1970s through the 1990s it served as a muffler shop and is currently the site of offices for Haase Inc, which will locate to another property close by. Sen. Rosalyn Dance, D-Petersburg, also said that the distillery would bring even more economic development to downtown Petersburg and benefit local farmers. “I am pleased to welcome big trouble like you to Petersburg,” she said. —Leah Small may be reached at 722-5172 or lsmall@progress-index. com

of Christ) was selected as one of 50 ministers throughout the United States to visit the Holy

TRAPS From Page V4

and government affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “AAA simply feels that speed enforcement should be conducted in areas where speeding is a documented problem or other safety concerns exist.” Hopewell employs 11 sheriff ’s deputies working in 14-hour shifts to patrol 1.7 miles of interstate highway. Nearly three-fourths of the tickets were issued to out-of-state motorists, according to AAA. “These motorists are unlikely to come back to the area to fight their tickets but rather simply pay the associated fines

Land in Israel for two weeks. The trip began Feb. 23. The all-expensepaid trip was sponsored

and fees,” the group said in a statement. The Hopewell Sheriff ’s Department could not be reached for comment. The Office of the State Inspector General looked at the situation in 2013 and reported, “The sheriff has stated that his intent is to slow down traffic on the interstate and make it safer for the traveling public.” Virginia ranks seventh in the nation for the number of traffic tickets issued per year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In addition, the agency says, Virginia is tied with Illinois for having the nation’s highest speeding ﬁnes – up to $2,500.

by the Appomattox Commandry Knights of Templar (Petersburg).

Moreover, under Virginia law, reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor. “When the commonwealth raised its interstate speed limits a few years back, it failed to adjust the reckless driving threshold accordingly. So now, anyone caught going 11 mph over the posted speed on the interstate is subject to a reckless driving charge,”John Bowman, a spokesman for the National Motorists Association, said in an interview with Watchdog.org. “Congestion, coupled with speed traps, red-light cameras and aggressive traffic enforcement make Virginia a very difficult place to drive.”

Friday, March 13, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.

ADVOCATES FOR EDUCATION

Students meet with state legislators Discuss impact of John Tyler Community College From Contributed Report

CHESTERFIELD — After overcoming several life-altering challenges, Amber Staton decided she wanted more for herself and her children. So, the Petersburg resident turned to John Tyler Community College for an education that will give her the skills needed to become a social worker and to help others. Gloria Horne wanted a new career, one that would allow her to offer support to patients and families facing serious illness or trauma. To do that, she enrolled at Tyler, and thanks to the College’s many resources and services, she is able to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. Asein

Ta realized at a young age that education provides opportunity. That’s why he’s determined to become a teacher. Ta says he wants to inspire others the way Tyler’s faculty and staff have inspired him. These are just some of the stories John Tyler Community College students shared with state legislators during meetings on Jan. 28, and Feb. 5. During the trips, the students, accompanied by John Tyler Community College President Edward “Ted” Raspiller and College staff, met with several senators and delegates. They included Sen. Rosalyn Dance, Sen. Stephen Martin, Sen. Frank Ruff, Sen. John Watkins, Del. Kirk Cox, Del. Riley Ingram, Del. Joseph Preston, Del. Roxann Robinson, and Del. Lee Ware. The students also had the

During a recent visit to the state capitol to meet with lawmakers about education, John Tyler Community College students talked with Del. Kirk Cox, R-66th, and House Majority Leader, center. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

During a recent visit to the state capitol to speak with lawmakers about education, John Tyler Community College students and President Edward “Ted” Raspiller, far left, met with Senator Rosalyn Dance, D-16th, pictured third from right.

opportunity to speak with the legislative assistant to Del. Betsy Carr. In addition to sharing their personal stories and talking about their experiences at John Tyler Community College, the student delegation talked to legislators about the importance of affordable tuition, program variety,

and ﬁnancial aid. To hear what students have to say about the way John Tyler impacts their lives, watch our video on YouTube at http://youtu.be/ Z7xY-dNi0oc. John Tyler Community College is the ﬁfth largest of the 23 community colleges in Virginia. With campuses in Chester and Midlothian

and off-campus classrooms throughout the area, John Tyler offers opportunities for students who want to earn a degree or certiﬁcate, transfer to a four-year college or university, train for the workforce, or switch careers. The College, which served nearly 14,000 students during the 2013-14 academic

year, offers 18 associate degrees, seven certiﬁcates, and 36 career studies certificates. The institution also serves more than 13,000 non-credit trainees and over 1,000 companies and government agencies annually through the Community College Workforce Alliance.

Colonial Christian Address: 295 Dunlop Farms Blvd. For more information, call 520-4988 or visit www.colonialchristianchurch.com. Colonial Heights Baptist Address: 17201 Jeff Davis Highway. For more information, call 526-0424 or visit www.chbaptist.com. CH Nazarene Church Address: 601 East Ellerslie Avenue. For more information, call 526-6920. Colonial Heights Presbyterian Address: 211 Lynchburg Avenue. For more information, call 526-0929 or visit http://www.colonialheightspres.org. Community Christian Fellowship Address: Meets at Matoaca Middle School, West campus. For more information, call 526-8260 or visit www.ccfnet1.org. Covenant Christian Address: 542 South Park Blvd. For more information,

call 526-0634. Faith Baptist Address: 1226 W. Roslyn Road. For more information call 526-8189 or visit mysite. verizon.net/FBC316/. Faith and Hope Outreach Center Address: 101 Highland Avenue. For more information, call 526-3667. Fellowship Baptist Church Address: 21000 Chesterﬁeld Avenue, Ettrick. For more information call 5266184 or 590-2277. Highland Methodist Address: 125 E. Westover Avenue. For more information, call 526-3870. Immanuel Baptist Address: 620 Lafayette Avenue. For more information, call 526-3276 or www. ibc4family.com. Ivey Memorial U.M. Church Address: 17120 Jefferson Davis Highway. For more information, call 526-1350. Life Church Address: 16801

Harrowgate Road. For info on Sunday services and other Life changing ministries and activities go to www.visitlifechurch.org, or e-mail wanda@visitlifechurch.org or call 526-7000. Lifeline Fellowship Church Services are held at Salem Church Elementary School, 9600 Salem Church Road, in Chesterﬁeld. For more information, call 804-839-3136. Lyons Avenue Bible Church Address: 516 Lyons Avenue. For more information, call 520-7813. Lutheran Church of our Redeemer Address: 1769 S. Sycamore St., Petersburg. For more information, call 732-8567 between 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Mount Calvary Baptist Church Address: 19600 Halloway Avenue, Matoaca. For more information, call 590-2094. Mount Pleasant Baptist

Address: 3110 Greenwood Avenue. For more information, call 526-0816. Oaklawn Baptist Address: 7925 Hickory Road, Chesterﬁeld. For more information, call 804-526-5649. Power Over Power Deliverance Ministries Address: Meets at Comfort Suites hotel, Colonial Heights (near Southpark shopping mall). For more information, call 757-968-6532. Prayer Vigil Ministry The Tri-Cities Prayer Vigil Ministry has a prayer line open for prayer requests seven days a week including holidays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The number to call is 804-895-6910. Prince of Peace Outreach Center Address: 107 Pickwick Avenue. For more information or transportation, call Overseer Walter J. Mason at 834-2356. St. Ann Catholic Church Address: 17111 Jefferson

Davis Highway. For more information, call 526-2548. St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Address: The corner of Ellerslie Avenue and Old Town Drive. For more information, call 526-1790. Swift Creek Baptist Church Address: 18510 Branders Bridge Road. For more information, call 520-1211. The Lord's Church Baptist Address: 20905 Third Ave., Ettrick. For more information, call 520-5133. Walthall Baptist Church Address: 14001 Woods Edge Road. For more information, call 530-8011. Wesley Methodist Address: 3701 Conduit Road. For more information, call 526-3700 or visit www. wesley.col-hts.org. Woodlawn Baptist Church Address: 3116 Woodlawn Avenue. For more information, call 526-2179 or 541-3514.

 Photo ID for parent of legal REGISTRATION Form guardian

in language and literacy skills. This preparation needs to begin long before a child reaches a classroom. “Children start learning as soon as they are born. Every day, there are teachable moments that parents can use to prepare their child to be ready for school,” said Hale. Smart Beginnings recommends these activities to help children build their skills and conﬁdence:

objects  Show respect and use good manners  Follow directions and listen to others  Practice writing their name – with an uppercase first letter  Find name letters of the alphabet everywhere you go  Play with Play-Doh and toys to strengthen hard and finger coordination  Use scissors to practice cutting, and crayons and markers to draw and develop finger strength

home reduces stress and teaches your child good habits,” added Hale. She advises parents and caregivers to keep to a regular bedtime and wakeup time for children so they know what to expect. Hale recommends letting children make choices, visit new places, meet new people and talk about feelings. “It will help them build their confidence and be ready for their first big day of kindergarten.” There are advantages

for parents, children and schools when kindergarteners are registered on time on April 16:

meet the months of June, July or August) COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Association of Military Retirees meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Thursday of every month in the Colonial Heights Community Building. Military retirees of all branches of service and their spouses, and Reserve and National Guard retirees are invited to become members. All active duty members with 18 or more years service are invited to become a member. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — If you are a family member or friend of someone who has dementia, including Alzheimer’s, and would like to join a support group, please call 526-6851. Support groups are meeting on the ﬁrst and third Thursday of each month at 5 p.m. at Colonial Heights Health Care and Rehabilitation Center, 831 Ellerslie Ave. Dinner provided if you RSVP no later than the morning of the group meeting. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Rotary Club of Colonial Heights meets at the Hilton Garden Inn, Southpark Boulevard, each Thursday at 7 a.m. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Colonial Heights Moose Lodge 1783, 170 Moose Ave., holds bingo every Thursday. Doors open 4 p.m. Bingo starts at 7

p.m. Food is available for nominal fee. For directions, visit the website at www.chmoose.com or call 804-526-1537. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Veterans of Foreign Wars Robert E. Lee Post 2239 and the Ladies Auxiliary meet at 7:30 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at the Post Home, 14705 Jefferson Davis Highway. PETERSBURG — Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at: the Tri-City Club, located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in the rear of the building, (access through North Market Street in the large parking lot. The doors are at the top of the ramp). Call 24/7 for the AA hot line and more information, 452-1959. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Colonial Heights Senior Citizens Club meets each Thursday. In place of their regular meeting this week, the seniors are hosting a community blood drive from 1-4:15 p.m. at the Community Building. The Colonial Heights Senior Citizens Club is sponsored by the City of Colonial Heights Department of Recreation and Parks. Any resident of Colonial Heights, 50 years of age or older, is invited to join meetings. For more information, call Mildred Morrison at 526-3497.

CHURCH NEWS DIRECTORY Calvary Baptist Church Address: 17001 Jefferson Davis Highway. For more information, call 526-0981. Christ Community Church Address: Meets at Lakeview Elementary School, 401 Taswell Ave. For more information or directions, call 520-6200, or www. christcommunitychurchva. org. Cameron Avenue Church of Christ Address: 601 Cameron Avenue. For more information, call 526-5286. Celebration of Life Church Celebration of Life Church of God meets at 123 Pickwick Ave. in Colonial Heights. For more information please call 221-2915. Chesterﬁeld Community Church Address: Meets at Greenwood Presbyterian Church, 7110 Woodpecker Road. For more information, call 7961040 or visitccc4jc2007@ aol.com.

From Page V5

together takes time. Parents and caregivers are still encouraged to attend registration even if they do not have all the documents because exceptions could apply. These are documents needed for registration:  Child’s official, certiﬁed birth certiﬁcate  Child’s Social Security card  Proof of address  School Entrance Health

CALENDAR From Page V3

Together) council. There is no cost to attend Triad meetings.

TUESDAY, March 17 PETERSBURG — Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at: the Tri-City Club, located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in the rear of the building, (access through North Market Street in the large parking lot. The doors are at the top of the ramp). Call 24/7 for the AA hot line and more information, 452-1959. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Central Virginia Coin Club will hold its regular meeting at Dante’s Pizzeria, 2900 Cedar Lane, at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. This club meets the third Tuesday of each month. COLONIAL HEIGHTS - The Colonial Heights Retired School Personnel will meet at 11:45 a.m. Tuesday at Tussing Elementary School, 5501 Conduit Road. Don Schmidt will present a program on "The Early History of Virginia - from Jamestown to Richmond, and All in Between". For more information, contact Kathy Thompson, 520-2302.

“Our goal is to reach more parents about the kindergarten registration date and help more parents understand what school readiness is. Parents are their child’s first and most important teacher,” said Jacque Hale, director of Smart Beginnings at United Way of Greater Richmond and Petersburg. In the Richmond region,  Read and look at books 1 in 7 children enters kin- every day dergarten already behind  Practice counting real 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.

WEDNESDAY, March 18 CHESTER — The American Red Cross, Web of Hope, welcomes all who would like to learn to knit or crochet to its monthly meeting held at Chester Baptist Church, 4317 School St., on each third Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon. All are welcome to participate, or you may help this program by donating new yarn. For information, call Linda Southward at 779-3453 or Angela Guastella at 530-0871. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) No. 485 meets each Wednesday morning at Colonial Heights Library,

1000 Yacht Basin Drive. Weighins begin at 8:15 a.m. and the meetings start at 9. For more information, call Evelyn at 748-2607. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Optimist Club of Colonial Heights, 916 Meridan Ave., holds bingo every Wednesday evening. Doors open at 5 p.m. and early bird games start at 6:45 and regular games start at 7. Food is available for a nominal fee. For directions or details, call 526-0689. Money raised supports youth projects in the community. PETERSBURG — Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held each Wednesday at 10 a.m. at: Second Presbyterian Church, 419 W. Washington St. (round the back come upstairs). Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are also held at 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at: the Tri-City Club, located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in the rear of the building, (access through North Market Street in the large parking lot. The doors are at the top of the ramp). Call 24/7 for the AA hot line and more information, 452-1959. 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,

“Sticking to routines at

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.

THURSDAY, March 19 CHESTERFIELD — Grandparents Connection meets every third Thursday of the month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Community Development Building, 9800 Government Center Pkwy. Free child care is available. For more information, call contact the Senior advocate at Leidheiserd@ chesterﬁeld.gov or 804-768-7878. PETERSBURG — Southside Regional Medical Center sponsors a Multiple Sclerosis Support Group on the third Thursday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. on the third ﬂoor in the Labor and Delivery Classroom at SRMC, 200 Medical Park Blvd. There is no charge to attend. For more information, contact Quennette Johnson at (434) 2466007. (This group does not

 Parents can get important information that they might otherwise miss;  Schools can adequately prepare for space, staff and materials; and  Teachers can prepare for the child in the classroom. For more information about kindergarten registration and what to bring on April 16, parents can dial the phone number “2-1-1" or visit www.readychildren.net.

The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va. | Friday, March 13, 2015

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2015

PROGRESS Edition

The region has been know for centuries as a transportation hub largely because of its rivers. Now, highways and railroads are keeping that tradition alive. Several communities are vying for a new Amtrack rail station and the fate of U.S. Route 460 is still being considered.

Read The Entire Story March 22

www.progress-index.com

Friday, March 13, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.

ETTRICK

VSU Cares to host Health Expo Annual two-day event will focus on screening and health promotion activities for the community From Contributed Report

ETTRICK — VSU Cares will hold its 4th annual Health and Dental Expo on Friday-Saturday, April 10-11, at Daniel Gymnasium on the campus of VSU. The expo will focus on screening and health promotion activities to improve health equity in Central Virginia and the Crater Health District. The VSU Community Healthcare Initiative (VSU Cares) began as a volunteer community based partnership among Virginia State University, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Health Professions, the Virginia Dental Association Foundation, the Southside Dental Society and the Old Dominion Dental Society. The partnership has expanded to include other major sponsors such as the American Association of Retired Persons, Bon Secours Richmond Health Systems, Hospital Corporation of America, Komen Foundation, and the Lion’s and Rotary Clubs. There are also a host of other community organizations who come together to make this annual event successful. Over the past three years the focus has been on improving the health in the community by addressing health disparities such as the lack of access to dental and health care for the uninsured. In addition to dental services, clients are screened for common health problems and provided tips to identify risk factors for chronic diseases. This year the focus will be on dental screening for children ages 1 to 12 years as provided by the Colgate Mobile Dental Van on Friday, April 10 from noon to 5 p.m. On Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., there will be screening and health promotion activities for selected chronic health problems affecting the adult population in the area. Dental professionals who would like to volunteer their services are asked to visit www.vsu.edu/events/vsucares/index.php VSU Cares is supported by donations from community sponsors. Your tax deductible monetary donations can be made to the Virginia State University Foundation for VSU Cares. For further information, please contact vsucares@vsu.edu.

FORT LEE

Army post hosts annual Culinary Arts Competitive Training Event Local soldier wins gold on March 7 in ‘food table displays’ category By Shelby Mertens Staff Writer

FORT LEE — Competitors at Fort Lee’s 40th annual Culinary Arts Competitive Training Event finished crafting their food table displays at 7:30 the morning of March 7 after spending all night in the kitchen. The late night hours spent pouring over meticulous details such as the layout, sequence, glazing and ﬂow of a poultry cold platter paid off for Staff Sgt. Justin Gonzalez, an instructor at Fort Lee’s advanced culinary training division, who won gold for his category. “It was very, very gratifying. I think it’s probably, endorphin-wise, why I’m still awake, it’s that high, it’s probably what’s keeping me going this morning,” Gonzalez said. Gonzalez’s showpiece, called "Le Goût du Canard" (The Taste of Duck) featured smoked duck breast, duck conﬁt, mushroom terrine, tomato jam, pimento and leek, sun dried cherry sauce and other garnishes. The March 7 events kicked off the week-long culinar y competitive training, which draws in military culinarians from around the world each year to Fort Lee’s Field House. The first day of competition included the mobile kitchen trailer hot food challenge, cold food table display, student skills, student chef, nutrition hot food challenge, live cooking and live pastry and ice carving. Raymond Beu, director of training at Fort Lee’s Joint Culinary Center of Excellence, said only a

handful of Fort Lee students and personnel are competing this year, as the post focuses more on hosting the event. Culinarians may be awarded gold, silver, or bronze ribbons, or a commendable rating, based on American Culinary Federation standards. “While this is a military competition, we’re sanctioned by the American Culinary Federation and so we follow ACF rules and all of the judges are certified ACF judges,” Beu said. Gonzalez started his cold food platter three days before the competition because of his teaching duties, but said the entire process would take 13 and a half hours. This was Gonzalez’s first time competing. “After we got done with the work last night I stayed in the kitchen, most of my proteins were already done, so there’s a process of aspecting, or glazing, that you go through with gelatin and that can take up to three to five hours, depending on how many components you have and it’s just a long process so that kind of carries right into this morning,” he said. The panel of ACF certified judges did not taste the table displays, but rather judged based on the aesthetics, freshness, glazing and layout. “A lot of times these plates are very symmetrical. They look at things like weak lines, strong lines, things that kind of make sense with the story you’re trying to tell and if it’s functional,” Gonzalez said. “A lot of times they want to make sure that the representation

Chef Robert McCabe of the Royal Navy & Royal Marines demonstrates a dish at the 40th annual Military Culinary Arts Competitive Training Event at Fort Lee on Saturday, March 7. SCOTT P. YATES/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO

is being told across the board on the platter.” Gonzalez said he was happy that he chose the larger platter because it made for an eye-appealing layout. “The platter I chose today was a little bit bigger than I normally would have used, but I think it kind of paid off in the end because a couple of judges said it made them feel a little more relaxed when they were looking at the food because they were able to focus on each component as they were going through it, instead of choosing a small platter with a lot of components because it can get kind of chaotic,” he said. Gonzalez has been an instructor at Fort Lee for

17 months. He decided to enter this week’s culinary competition because he is a candidate for the U.S. Culinary Arts Team and is required to participate in a cold platter and live cooking event, which he plans to do on Monday. For the live cooking, he said he plans to create a seafood dish. Another part of Gonzalez’s reasoning for competing in this year’s event is to set an example for his students. “I kind of feel like I’m in the realm where we’re always in that instructor role and it can be intimidating for our students to come through, we’re always looking over their backs and we expect very high standards from them,” Gonzalez said.

“I feel like it’s only fair to showcase our skills back to them when they come back to Fort Lee.” The biggest challenge, Gonzalez said, is maintaining patience over the long process. “It’s not like the Food N e t w o r k ,” G o n z a l e z said. “You’ve got to get it straight right now.” Competitive events took place every day through Thursday this week at the Fort Lee Field House. The awards ceremony was slated for today at a to-be-determined time.

—Shelby Mertens may be reached at 804-722-5154 or smertens@progressindex.com.

HOLLINS UNIVERSITY

Ballator Gallery to display Vietnam Combat Art Month-long exhibit is part of commemoration of Vietnam War 50th anniversary From Contributed Report

SALEM — In commemoration of the Vietnam War 50th Anniversary, the County of Roanoke, City of Roanoke, Town of Vinton, City of Salem and Stonewall Jackson Chapter/ AUSA are hosting the inaugural public viewing

of Vietnam Combat Art. There are presently 39 original pieces of art housed at the U.S. Army Center of Military History in Washington, D.C. This artwork has never been on display anywhere in the United States and special permission was given to reproduce these pieces and have them available for public viewing. The exhibit will be on display in the Hollins University Ballator Gallery from Thursday, March 26 through Sunday, April 26, from 9 a.m. until 5

p.m. daily. An opening reception will be held on Wednesday, March 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the gallery. Sarah Forgey, curator, Army Art Collection, US Army Center of Military History, will be on hand to give remarks and discussion. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Exhibit sponsors include Salem Virginia Credit Union, Carilion Clinic, Roanoke Valley Disabled American Veterans, Blue Ridge Veterans Celebration, VVA

Roanoke Valley Chapter 81, Source 4, Blue Ridge Beverage, and Southwest Virginia Chapter/MOAA. What is the Vietnam Combat Art Program? As combat in Vietnam escalated in 1965, the chief of Military History developed a new Army Art Program to document Army activities. As in World War II, the program was set up to utilize the talent of both military and civilian professional artists. During the Vietnam War, U. S. Army Special Services sponsored 10

teams of artists to serve four– to five-month tours. For sixty days, the artists traveled in Vie tnam, e xperiencing the war with their contemporaries and documenting that experience through photographs, ﬁeld sketches, and meticulous notes. They then spent the rest of their tour working in a studio to produce art based on their observations. Ten civilian artists also toured Vietnam in a similar fashion, and their art was donated to the Army.

IN BRIEF

Spring Bazaar & craft show COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Awana Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church, located at 17001Jefferson Davis Highway, is hosting a "Spring Bazaar & Craft Show" on March 28. The event is a fundraiser for the high school club to raise money to attend Awana's National Summit event where members will compete in a Bible quiz competition, ﬁne arts, and volleyball. Please email melissa.newcomb1@gmail for vendor information.

Diaper Drive for Families First CHESTERFIELD — Chesterﬁeld-Colonial Heights Families First, a program of Chesterﬁeld County’s Department of Mental Health Support Services, is holding its second annual diaper drive throughout March to assist families

in need. All Chesterfield County Public Libraries will serve as collection sites for unopened packages of diapers during regular business hours. Families First is a nationally accredited program of Healthy Families Virginia that provides family support services to firsttime parents to ensure their children become healthy, well-adjusted individuals who are ready to start school by age 5. “Last year’s drive was such a success. The community really stepped up to donate more than 8,000 diapers. We were able to provide 90 families with diapers. This year, we hope to provide even more families with this basic necessity. The diaper drive supports first-time parents enrolled in the Families First program as they continue on their journey to becoming stronger parents,” said Andelicia Neville, Families First program coordinator. For library locations and

hours, call 748-1601 or visit library.chesterﬁeld.gov/ screens/branches.html.

Radford University honors RADFORD — Five residents of Colonial Heights have been named to the fall semester dean’s list at Radford University. They are Kayleigh M. Long, senior dance major; Russell Alexander Korb, senior history major; Elizabeth Ann Kunde, sophomore music major; Destinee N. Taft, sophomore interdisciplinary studies major; and Mary Elizabeth Laughlin, sophomore pre-major. To be named to the dean’s list, a student must have taken 15 or more credit hours and have a grade point average of 3.4 or above with no grade below a C.

Petersburg 237 Lodge does "Back to School With an Elk"

PETERSBURG — The Petersburg 237 Elks Lodge used the Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant to help at-risk and at-need youth by partnering with Colonial Heights Parks and Recreation Department. This year, lodge members instituted and facilitated an event, "Back to School With an Elk." The aim of this program was to provide school supplies to worthy youth in middle schools from the following localities: Colonial Heights, Petersburg, Hopewell and Dinwiddie. On behalf of the lodge, Petersburg 237 Secretary Eric Hamilton says, "this was hard work, but, thanks to the Elks National Foundation $2,000 Beacon Grant, for 32 students, teachers, and parents, it happened. It was worth the hard work and time to see an at-need or at-risk student being given the tools to allow them to perform the work assigned and further their education."

Garden Party set for April 8 PETERSBURG — The Nathaniel Cawsey Garden Club will present its 21st annual "Garden Party" at 10:30 a.m. April 8 at The Country Club of Petersburg, located at 10401 Johnson Road. Guest speaker for the event will be Jane VanDenburgh. The title of her program will be "Inspirations from Abroad." The decorated hat contest theme is Kentucky Derby. The event will include door prizes, a raffle prize, silent auction and lunch prepared by The Country Club. For tickets and more information, call 541-0066.

Festival Chorus hosts pancake breakfast PETERSBURG — The Petersburg Festival Chorus will hold a pancake breakfast

on Saturday from 8–11 a.m. at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 225 Claremont St. The breakfast will be held in the church social hall. Entry to the social hall can be made from the east side of the church and is handicapped accessible. Chorus members will serve pancakes, sausage, baked apples, orange juice, tea and coffee. Tickets cost $5 per person and can be purchased from any Petersburg Festival Chorus member or at the door. Proceeds from the fundraiser will support the chorus’ Grande Concert, which will take place in May with an anniversary theme. This year is the 25th anniversary of the chorus. The chorus is always looking for singers interested in joining this group of people who love to sing. For more information on the pancake breakfast or the chorus, contact Ginia Sullivan at 804-862-3706.