LADY OF THE YEAR PAGE V5
THE HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER OF THE COLONIAL HEIGHTS AREA
Friday, May 22, 2015
LITTLE FEET MEET PAGE V6 FREE
BUSINESS ON A BUN
LOCAL Memorial Day Ceremony COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The City’s Memorial Day Ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Monday, May 25, and will last approximately 45 minutes. The ceremony will be presented by VFW No. 2239 at the War Memorial, located on the Boulevard between Lee and Lafayette avenues.
Special Needs Resource Fair COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Arc South of the James will host a resource fair from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, at Tussing Elementary School, 5501 Conduit Road. The event will feature 20-plus tables on a variety of topics for children and adults with disabilities. Among the agencies and organizations that will be represented are: Special Olympics of the Tri-Cities, experts in PT, OT and speech/language, Dare to Change (mental health services), Branches of Life (career prep and more), DisAbility Law Center and Dr. John Bruner, (ABA Therapy). For more information, contact Shareen Young-Chavez, president of The Arc South of the James, at schavez.thearcsoj@ gmail.com
Bone health seminar in May COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Colonial Heights Health Care and Rehabilitation will sponsor a free bone health program at 5:30 p.m. May 28, in the rehabilitation gymnasium of the health care facility, located at 831 Ellerslie Ave. Attendees will learn how to prevent an injury, manage an injury and recover quickly. There will be a question and answer portion of the program and refreshments will be provided. To register, call 804-526-6851 or email Ethomas2@care-one. com.
Health program HOPEWELL — John Randolph Medical Center is sponsoring a conversation on stroke awareness, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, in the cafeteria of John Randolph Medical Center, located at 411 West Randolph Road. Doctors Mubishir Khan, Thomas Mattingly and Dawen Bu will speak during the program, entitled “Because Time Does Matter!” Refreshments will be provided. The program is free bur reservations are required by calling 804-320-DOCS(3627).
Disaster Survivor Day COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Local residents are invited to join public safety partners from across the Central Virginia region in Disaster Survivor Day, an event where families can learn how to live safely through natural disasters and other emergencies. Disaster Survivor Day is set for Saturday, June 13, and will take place in Colonial Heights at the Colonial Heights Technical Center, 3451 Conduit Road, from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Presented by the Central Virginia Emergency Management Alliance, attendees will learn how to survive at home without power for at least 72 hours and what to take with them if they need to leave home in a hurry. Plus, Emergency and Community Response professionals will arm attendees with a free Survivor Starter Kit.
INDEX Opinion ..............V2 Police Log ..........V4
Church directoryV5 Classifieds ......... V7
Vol. 12, No. 35
Customers check out the new Steak ‘n Shake in Colonial Heights. The restaurant, located on Charles Dimmock Parkway, held a grand opening Monday, May 11.
Heights Steak ‘n Shake opens From Staff Reports
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Diners have a new option for American favorites like burgers and shakes with the grand opening of the Steak 'n Shake on Charles Dimmock Parkway. “Steak ‘n Shake is just another great example of companies finding the city of Colonial Heights as a great place to do business," said Mayor Greg Kochuba in a statement. "We are excited about the new investment in the city, and the jobs being provided for the citizens of Colonial Heights and the region.” Tasso Paphites, chairman and CEO of franchisee Steaks of Virginia, hosted the grand opening on Monday, May 11. The chain was founded in 1934 in Normal, Illinois. Previously, fans had to hop on Interstate 295 to a Henrico County location near Richmond International Airport. The restaurant is part of the city's efforts to redevelop several acres of former car dealerships. The ALDI grocery store opened last month, and adaptive reuse of the dealership buildings as medical offices has also occurred.
Cooks fire up the grill for the first customers at the new Steak ‘n Shake in Colonial Heights. The restaurant, located on Charles Dimmock Parkway, held a grand opening Monday, May 11. PATRICK KANE / PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS
COLONIAL HEIGHTS
Burlington Coat Factory may replace Kmart gave unanimous approval on May 5 for a site plan that included the demolition of the Kmart, and the new construction of three store fronts in its place. In his presentation of the plan, Brian Mitchell, of Townes By Leah Small Site Engineering, said that BurlStaff Writer ington Coat Factory would most likely be the anchor tenant of C O L O N I A L H E I G H T S the plan, at 51,000 square feet. — Burlington Coat Factory In an interview on Thursday, could be one of the stores Thomas Mattis, city manager, coming to replace the now said that the proposal includes closed Kmart in the Southgate two additional store fronts that Square shopping center. will also occupy space left by The Planning Commission Kmart. Tenants for the two
Plans are to move quickly to demolish the Kmart, which closed on May 10
locations are also undecided. Mattis said that Blackwood Development Company Inc., which owns Southgate Square, and Townes Site Engineering plan to move quickly to demolish the Kmart, which closed on May 10. Perretz & Young Architects is also providing architectural services for the new construction. Mitchell said that the space must be ready by March 1 of next year for an ideal opening of April 2016. Otherwise, Burlington Coat Factory would delay its opening October 1, 2016
because there are only certain times of the year that the company opens stores. The city and the developers are also working together to improve the main entrance to the shopping center from Southpark Boulevard. To ease traffic flow, Mattis said that the developers will add a third access lane to the entrance. The city also plans to add a pedestrian cross walk. —Leah Small may be reached at 722-5172 or lsmall@ progress-index.com
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Friday, May 22, 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
A special thanks to military children
W
e often discuss the sacrifices members of the military make in protecting our freedoms and national interests. They are the ones on the front lines and in harms way. And we will also remember the sacrifices that families of military members make. The spouses have to deal with a household that is missing someone important. They have to adapt in carrying the household load while worrying about a loved one in a danger zone. But often do we think of the children of military members? April was the Month of the Military Child, which was established in 1986. The sacrifices that military children make need to be more recognized by the rest of the nation Kiara Manion, at 7 years old, has been to 15 countries and 14 states. She’s also dealt with constant relocations, long durations away from family and, of course, starting all over to make new friends. It is the lifestyle children of military service members across the country experience due to the sacrifice their parents make serving in the armed forces. Both of Kiara’s parents, Lt. Col. Darcy and Lt. Col. Susan Manion, have been in the Army for 18 years and recognize that Kiara’s resilience at such a young age. “Really they serve as well. They didn’t sign up for this, but they serve. They deal with sometimes long hours when we’re at work or deployments and having to move a lot, so I think it’s important to recognize their sacrifices,” said Susan Manion. Charles Pyle, director of communications with the Virginia Department of Education, said there are an estimated 142,000 military-associated children of active duty members in Virginia. In Prince George County, which has the largest military community in the Tri-Cities with a whopping 1,902 military children in the school division, teachers made sure to recognize these students’ contributions to their community and schools. A third of the school district is from military families. “The military children are looked upon for their resilience and their ability to deal with life changing events. They are often separated from family members, there’s frequent moves through deployments and all this time those children work hard to do well in school,” said Dinwiddie Superintendent David Clark. Fort Lee provides assistance to those students who are moving into these communities. Chaundra Taswell, school liaison officer on Fort Lee, said the biggest program the installation offers is known as Student2Student, which works with Prince George County and is designed for middle and high school students new to the area. It partners new students with a current student to get them acclimated to their new setting. When we say thank you to service members and their family for all they do, we should remember to say a special thank you to military children.
YOUR VIEW
A weakened America The subject matter is something that all Americans be very concerned about, and the following are some of the events that are supporting this: Ever since President Nixon was pressured by the left to pull our troops out of Vietnam too early, there has been a slow downfall of America, as was once respected as being a world "Superpower." President George W. Bush, after the 9/11 attack, got our armed forces to rally against Al Qaeda in Iraq and took out an evil dictator. Afterwards, he kept a strong force in Iraq to stave off any upheavals, which made America look stronger at the time. However, after President Obama was elected (twice) he pulled all of our forces out of the region and even told the enemy when our troops would leave. I'm sure that struck fear in the hearts of our enemies. He also pulled back our nuclear arsenals in lieu of the START treaty with Russia. Does anyone believe that Putin will honor his part of that treaty? Now that ISIS/ISIL has taken over where the Taliban and Al Qaeda had left off, Obama is trying to get a "deal" with Iran to eliminate their attempts to manufacture nuclear weapons. Here, again, does anyone believe that Iran would honor any kind of "deal" from the United States? This is the country who has continually vowed death to America and Israel. And, to make matters worse, his administration has cut back on funding for our armed forces. Does that make any sense in this volatile world? Any furthermore, President Obama has issued a government sanctioned invasion of millions of Illegal aliens into our country through our Southern borders, and is spending millions of our tax dollars to give them healthcare and food stamps in addition to our own citizens already receiving this. How does that help us economically? To make a long story shorter, America elected a very weak leader to be our president (twice) and have been paying the price of no leadership ever since. America has been on the winning side of the last two world wars, but if World War III breaks out (God forbid), America may not be so fortunate in our current weakened condition--thanks to Obama and his administration. These events seem to indicate that our president is sending up a "White Flag" before any war/conflict breaks out!! Any who voted for this man at the last two Presidential elections should feel ashamed of themselves. We now have a president who doesn't -- and won't--lead our country. Golf, family vacations on our dime, photo-ops, and embarrassing our country in front of our Allies seem to take priority over the sake of our Nation. Pray that no more damage is done to our country during his remaining tenure. Gary Allen Chesterfield County
Where is your money going at the UN? Here’s a question for you to consider: Do you know what your taxpayer dollars are funding at the United Nations (UN)? You probably don’t – and you would probably have difficulty finding out. The reality is, the federal government doesn’t even have a full grasp on exactly how the UN is using its money. The United States (and more accurately U.S. taxpayers) is the largest contributor to the United Nations. In the ten year span between 2002 and 2012, funding for the United Nations nearly tripled, from roughly $15 billion to $41.5 billion. According to the Heritage Foundation, on average the U.S. provided approximately one-fifth of the contributions for that time period. The UN is a mammoth organization demanding mammoth funding levels. Within it, there are many distinct agencies, each with their own funding streams and their own objectives and activities. And, although the UN is subjected to audits in some cases, the organization is fraught with a history of scandal, corruption, and fraud. As such, the audits don’t always tell the whole story. Just last year, an Associated Press story detailed news that top officials within the UN tampered with evidence so as to prevent investigations into corruption cases. Funding to the UN also largely operates in a “no-strings-attached” model. Dollars are appropriated to various agencies and funds with little accountability or understanding of how those dollars might be used. Because it’s difficult to trace the money, U.S. funding gets tied up in activities that are deeply opposed to our national interests. Taxpayer dollars, for instance, are believed to have been used in the United Nations Population Fund (UNPF), which has been linked to China’s brutal one child policy. U.S. contributions have also been used to fund conferences, some of which have become platforms to promote anti-democratic , anti-American values. These are all matters we as a nation cannot afford to overlook. The original charter of the UN seeks to maintain global peace and security, create opportunities for cooperation among nations, and promote basic human rights. Our nation has always stood for those values. Unfortunately, the UN has moved further away from those values. The more of an investment you make in something, the greater the stakes become. The United States government has a responsibility to do its due diligence in making sure the UN’s intent is being carried through and that our national interests are not at risk. We have a responsibility to demand transparency and accountability, tracking dollars – even pulling funding when necessary. In Congress, I’m working to shed light on the activities of the UN. We must make it a priority to implement vital reforms in our relationship with the UN to ensure that the American people know where and
how their taxpayer dollars are being spent. Our government has a responsibility to ensure that money is not being wasted or spent contrary to U.S. interests. We have an obligation to make certain that American sovereignty is never undermined. H.R. 1034, a bill that I have cosponsored, requires a simple but commonsense action: that the Office of Management and Budget provide a report to Congress each year, detailing all U.S. contributions to the UN and its affiliated agencies. The report requires a detailed description and purpose of each contribution, as well as the percentage of U.S. contribution to each agency compared to contributions from other sources, like other nations. This adds a layer of accountability that has been grossly missing from the UN funding process. Transparency and accountability in funding at the UN is an economic and spending issue, but it is also an issue of what is in the American people’s best interest. The U.S. should not be forced to support activities that are wholly opposed to our national interests and what we, as a nation, stand for. America operates best when it is governed of the people, by the people, for the people – not of the people, by the people, for the United Nations. Congressman Randy Forbes R-4th District Chesapeake, Va.
Time Out Day helps nurses, surgeons perform better
On June 10, National Time Out Day will be practiced in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers around the country. Taking a "time out" to confirm correct patient, correct procedure, correct surgical site and other important information before every operative and other invasive procedure is a requirement of The Joint Commission Universal Protocol. Despite the requirement, 40-60 wrong-site surgeries likely occur in the U.S. each week. Time Out Day was created by the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses in 2004 to raise awareness about the importance of requiring the entire surgical team to pause before all invasive procedures to communicate as a group and confirm key information about the patient and procedure to help prevent errors from occurring. Wrong patient, wrong site, wrong procedures are sentinel events - described by The Joint Commission as "an unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury, or the risk thereof." To perioperative nurses, they are tragedies. That is why as a perioperative nurse and AORN member, I commemorate National Time Out Day with this public commitment to my patients, their loved ones and the entire surgical community that I will always take time out for every patient, every time. Bonnie P. Vencill RN, CNO Colonial Heights
The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va. | Friday, May 22, 2015
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YOUR NEWS
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THINGS TO DO THIS
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WEEKEND SATURDAY
■ The Hopewell Optimist Club is sponsoring a 5K run/walk on Saturday. The event will start and finish at the Beacon Theatre, which is located on Liberty Street in Hopewell. The goal of this event is to raise funds to benefit the Childhood Cancer Campaign which is an ongoing project of The Hopewell club as well as Optimist International. The 5K run/ walk begins at 9 a.m. with on-site registration and packet pick-up starting at 7:30 am. Preregistration can be done on the Tri-Cities Website (tricitiesroadrunners.org). Registration costs: free for children 5 and younger; $15 for students ages 6-17; $25 for adults on race day; and $60 for a family of four or more.
favorite super hero. Come and make a cape and enjoy healthy snacks. This event will be held at the Meadowdale and Central Library branches. Central Library is located at 9501 Lori Road, Chesterfield and Meadowdale is located at 4301 Meadowdale Blvd.
SUNDAY ■ The Historic Hopewell
Foundation will continue its concert series on Sunday at Weston Plantation. Pack a picnic, grab your lawn chairs and listen to the music of the Ralph Jones Band. The concert begins at 4 p.m. There is no admission charge. Audience members are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets for seating and may wish to bring their own refreshments. For directions to Weston Plantation, use ■ The Chesterfield County MapQuest for 400 Weston Public Library is hosting a Super Hero Fun Run & Walk Lane, Hopewell or call 4584682. The 1789 plantation on Saturday from 10 a.m. house overlooks the Appoto 1 p.m. Participants can mattox River and is located enjoy a one mile fun walk/ off 21st Avenue near the run around the Central Hopewell Marina. Library as yourself or your
FOR DISPLAY
Colonial Heights Historical Commission seeks memorabilia Documents, photographs, news articles, as well as artifacts, will be used to create exhibit for viewing by general public From Contributed Report
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Colonial Heights Historical Commission is requesting assistance from the citizens of Colonial Heights and surrounding areas in creating an exhibit of historical memorabilia that will represent a full range of Colonial Heights history between the first Indian settlement to the present.
Members of the historical commission are looking for photographs, news articles and documents, as well as historic artifacts that can be placed on display for viewing by the general public. "We are in need of historical items, such as Indian artifacts from our area, Revolutionary War era or Civil War era memorabilia or general items, such as old
business signs or miscellaneous items that remind us of our past city life," says John A. Rooney Jr., chairman of the historical commission. "Note that we would scan photographs so that you could keep your originals," Rooney stressed. At this time the historical commission is in the display planning stage and need to know what items would be
available to display. Anyone who would be interested in donating, or placing on loan, a historical artifact, or if you have some photographs the historical commission could scan, please contact Elke Gibbs at 520-9265 or by email at gibbse@colonialheightsva. gov. An inventory of items will be compiled but items will not be collected at this time. "We would collect the items when our display plan is nearing completion," Rooney said.
BRIEFLY
Coffeehouse at the Regional Heritage Center
PRINCE GEORGE — "Coffeehouse at the Courthouse", a presentation by students from the Independent Study Program at Prince George High School, was held at the Prince George County Regional Heritage Center on Thursday, May 14. The event included original art, music, readings, photography, and other work by the students. The artwork remains on exhibit through Memorial Day weekend. The Center is located at 6406 Courthouse Road For more information call 863-0212 or visit PGHistory@aol.com.
Acoustic concerts
CHESTERFIELD — The Chesterfield County Public Library is hosting its Acoustic Concert Series each Thursday, beginning at 7 p.m., at the Central Library, located at 9501 Lori Road. The hour-long concerts feature folk and traditional music from Richmond and the surrounding region. Traditional music is part of Virginia’s rich history, and CCPL brings that history to life through performances that offer a fun listening experience, with a little bit of learning thrown in. The concerts are free and open to the public. On Thursday, May 28, music will be provided by The FREE Rangers, a group that plays the familiar and new in a free-ranging Americana blend of bluegrass, country, cowboy, swing, folk and blues. For more information, visit http://library. chesterfield.gov/events/ acoustic-concerts/
Henricus Family Fun Day — “Field and Garden” CHESTER — Henricus Historical Park will be showcasing 17th century life in Colonial Virginia
from 400 years ago and you are invited to join the fun. Henricus Family Fun Day will include stationed activities, demonstrations, and crafts. The day will revolve around Colonialera fields, gardens, and domesticated animals. Visitors will be able to participate in all activities throughout the day at their own pace. This excellent family event will take place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Feel free to pack a picnic and enjoy our picnic tables and grills that overlook the beautiful James River. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required by May 28 by calling 804-318-8797. Admission: $9 for each child; $11 for each adult/ Henricus Patrons $5 for each child; accompanying adult free. Forr more information, visit www.Henricus.org.
Henricus Historical Park Camp Pocahontas CHESTER — From June 22-26, day campers ages 6–10, are invited to explore the environment and life of Pocahontas. This camp offers a better understanding of the culture of the Powhatan people through arts and crafts, demonstrations, and activities. In the re-created Powhatan settlement of Arrohateck, the Camp Pocahontas experience will offer hands-on activities including cooking, farming, hunting, and canoe building. Campers will participate in activities such as fish net weaving, pottery making, and arrow fletching. All make-andtake crafts are included in admission. Camp hours: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Space is limited! Registration required by June 17. Please call 804-318-8797 to register. Cost: $200/ Patrons $180 Visit www.Henricus.org to learn more about the outstanding educational programs offered by Henricus Historical Park.
COLONIAL VOICE COMMUNITY CALENDAR
FRIDAY, May 22 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 MondayFriday 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 — Oldies But Goodies Classic Cruizers Car Club is hosting its weekly "Cruise-In" from 6 to 9 p.m. each Friday through September, in the Lonestar Steakhouse parking lot, next to Southpark Mall in Colonial Heights. This event is free and is open to all car and truck enthusiasts that enjoy reminiscing about their antiques, muscle and custom cars, classics, and hot rods. Music is included: Oldies and Rock & Roll. For more information visit the
website at www.obgcc.com. DINWIDDIE — The Dinwiddie Diamonds will sponsor its monthly country dance from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Eastside Community Enhancement Center, 7301 Boydton Plank Road. Music will be provided by The Antiques. This is an alcohol free, smoke free event. Concessions will be open.
SATURDAY, May 23 CHESTER — The Southern Knights Cruisers Inc. car club is hosting its weekly "Cruise-In" now through Oct. 31, from 5 to 9 p.m., weather permitting, at Hardee’s on Route 10 and Old Stage Road. Over 100 antique cars, street rods, classics, muscle cars, and custom cars can be seen. Music from the 1950s and ‘60s from Wolfman John can be heard. Fun for the entire family and it is free to see. For more information, call Ricky Williams at 804-526-8865 or visit www. southernknightscruisers. com 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 7484896 and ask for Tom Gore. For information about VFW membership or other activities, call Tom Ferguson, 748-4896.
SUNDAY, May 24 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, (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.
MONDAY, May 25 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, 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. MondayFriday 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.
TUESDAY, May 26 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. CHESTERFIELD — Chesterfield County Domestic and Sexual Violence Resource Center is facilitating an anonymous community support group for victims of domestic and sexual violence on the second and fourth Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. If you are interested in attending, call 804-318- 8265 for more information. This support group is confidential. Anything you say is kept in strict confidence, as is the location. You do not need to use your name unless you choose to do so. The
group’s goal is to support, encourage and provide resources to participants.
WEDNESDAY, May 27 COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The 12th Virginia, Co. C, Petersburg New Grays meet at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Colonial Heights Public Library, 1000 Yacht Basin Drive. For more information, contact C.L. Helmer at 526-0724. 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.
THURSDAY, May 28 COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Colonial Heights Lions Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Dante’s Pizzeria. For more information, call Ralph Dunn, secretary, at 748-4810. This club meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month. COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The Rotary Club of Colonial Heights meets at the Hilton
SEE CALENDAR, V6
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Friday, May 22, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.
PETERSBURG
Exposed trash causes smell from landfill By Leah Small Staff Writer
PETERSBURG — Area residents may have their noses scrunched from the stench in the air for a little while longer, due to an odor problem that started with a trash flow beyond a Tri-Cities Regional Landfill wall. Robert Guidry, CEO of Container First Services, said that the problem would be corrected by Friday, May 15. Container First Services has submitted a proposal on fixing the issue to the state. Guidry spoke during a May 12 open forum on the trash flow held by the Petersburg Chamber of Commerce. The forum was attended by a handful of people, mostly representatives of Container First Ser vices. Guidry said that the root of the problem was that part of the landfill’s cover of soil shifted about nine days ago, causing the trash to spill beyond the containment wall. The uncovered area is currently exposed, causing odor to spread. Guidry said that CFS has also put deodorizers in the area. He c a u t i o n e d t h a t fixing the problem safely would take time. “I understand it’s a nuisance right now and I’m very upset about it. But I’m not putting someone at the top of that slope and killing them,” he said.
Guidry also said that he works to address citizen complaints that same day and has kept city leaders aware of the problem. Councilwoman Treska Wilson Smith, Ward 1, the only council member in attendance, described the odor that she said sometimes comes from the landfill as a “chicken fat smell.” The overflow occurred on the side of the landfill that is opposite the Appomattox River and didn’t go beyond the roughly 82 acres owned by Container First Services. The actual hill of trash itself takes up about 60 acres. Guidry said that the overflow wasn’t due to a failing of the site’s containment wall, which is over 60 feet thick. When the trash came crashing down, the wall rotated as designed to let much of the trash pass underneath it - instead of above it - which would cause more damage. The collapse was due to the opening up of two areas that had settled in that section of the landfill, which caused part of the soil cover to shift. The settled areas were opened for access to air pockets where more trash could be placed to fill the section to capacity. Guidry said that the landfill isn’t being overused, and that this section of the landfill takes in only 900 to 1,000 tons a day, even though it’s permitted to take in
1,500 tons. The section will also be capped at 192 feet even though it’s permitted to rise to 216. But Guidry said that despite the company’s best efforts, there will sometimes be an odor in the air. “[If ] you are going to put trash in the air at 192 feet, you are going to have a smell,” he said. Guidry also said that sometimes other waste or industrial smells, such the offloading of industrial products from trains and wastewater treatment, are blamed on the landfill. CFS will start construction on another section of A truck is loaded with refuse Wednesday as tons of garbage are moved from the landfill to store trash an area that gave way at the Tri-City Regional Landfill & Recycling Center in on June 1. The section Petersburg. PATRICK KANE / PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS will take up about 9.2 acres and will be completed in 70 - 90 days. Wilson-Smith, who also works with Girl Scout troops in the community, proposed that local Girl Scouts plant flowers in the soil cover of the landfill to beautify the area. Guidry also said that CFS will plant grass on the hill. Eventually, when the landfill is at capacity in an estimated 20 years, it will be converted to a park or other natural area similar to Mount Trashmore Park in Virginia Beach. —Leah Small may be reached at 722-5172 or lsmall@progress-index. com
Drivers manuever trucks Wednesday as crews relocate and cover tons of garbage from an area that gave way at the Tri-City Regional Landfill & Recycling Center in Petersburg. PATRICK KANE / PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS
PETERSBURG
COLONIAL HEIGHTS
Dog rescued from fire up for adoption Council passes From Staff Reports
PETERSBURG — The dog whose dramatic rescue from a house fire last year drew national attention is now up for adoption. Kaiser, a German Shepherd mix, lost his owner just weeks ago and is being cared for by Petersburg Animal Care and Control. After finding the dog in a house fire on Surry Lane, Petersburg Fire Fighter Josh Moore held an oxygen mask on Kaiser's nose for five to eight minutes before the dog revived. "It felt like forever,” he said last year. “Looking into his eyes you could see he was in need. You could definitely see his life leaving.” Moore was honored by the insurance company
Liber ty Mutual with their Firemark Award in December 2014. The city has since outfitted the Southside Virginia Emergency Medical Crew's ambulances with pet-specific oxygen masks. Susan Huysman, who was seriously injured in the October 9 blaze, died on April 18, according to an obituary. She had gone back into the house to search for Kaiser. Huysman and friends thanked the fire fighters who responded to her emergency with a Thanksgiving dinner last fall. "All animals are loved by PACC, but this dog is more than special to us all. He protected his mom and he protects us," according to a statement from the city. Kaiser enjoys playing ball, knows commands
city budget By Leah Small Staff Writer
Kaiser plays catch at Petersburg Animal Care and Control. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO / PETERSBURG PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
and is house-broken, PACC reports. They admit he sometimes does not mix well with strangers because of his guardian tendency, but gets along with dogs and used to live with a cat. For those who want to
meet Kaiser and the other animals up for adoption, Animal Control is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon - 4 p.m., Fridays from noon - 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 1-3 p.m. The facility is located at 1600 Johnson Road.
■ Tierra Shantel Taylor,
31, of the 500 block of Pecan Street, Petersburg was charged with child neglect/cont to del mino on April 11. ■ Donald Wayne Harris, 56, of the 3200 block of Holly Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with probation:violation on April 11. ■ Tahjmere T. Hopkins, 19, of the 900 block of Forestview Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with probation:violation on April 11. ■ Kristen Ann Kesner, 31, of the 2700 block of County Drive, Petersburg was charged with probation:violation on April 11. ■ Douglas Adam Dabney, 31, of the 700 block of Collindale Avenue, Hopewell was charged with probation:violation on April 12. ■ William Joseph Miller, 19, of the 100 block of Memorial Avenue, Hopewell was charged with fraud:false pretense on April 12. ■ Joshua J. Peeples, 21, of the 500 block of Broad Street, Emporia was charged with larceny:petit on April 12.
COLONIAL HEIGHTS POLICE LOG The following information was provided by the Colonial Heights Police Department. ■ Lisa Christine Lamm,
40, of the 3200 block of Wildwood Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with assault & battery:family member on April 8. ■ Jaime Matovich-Maitland, 38, of the 6100 block of Dale Shire Drive, N. Chesterfield was charged with violate conditions of release on April 8. ■ Cinnamon Patrice Middleton, 22, of the 4000 block of J Mitchell Jones, S. Chesterfield was charged with probation:violation on April 8. ■ Tynesha Livarda Procise, 24, of the 1500 block of W Clara Drive, Petersburg was charged with violation of court order on April 8. ■ Nataysha Taylor, 21, of the 8 block of Redwood Court, Petersburg was charged with assault:simple on April 8. ■ D'Angelo Tyrone Brown, 28, of the 300 block of Branders Bridge Road, Colonial Heights was charged with fraud:false pretense April 9.
■ Donnell Andrew Dabney Jr., 21, of the 300 block of Jackson Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with fail to appear on April 9. ■ Kristen Ashley Howell, 20, of the 20700 block of Fourth Avenue, Petersburg was charged with larceny:credit card theft; 2 counts fraud:credit card;forgery on April 9. ■ Amber Ann Jordan, 32, of the 200 block of Pickett Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with violation of court order on April 9. ■ David Mallie Lamm, 41, of the 2500 block of Pin Oak Court, Colonial Heights was charged with assault & battery:family member on April 9. ■ Tamera Jonnel Lewis, 30, of the 200 block of Graham Street, Emporia was charged with larceny:petit on April 9. ■ Antoiney Breanna Love, 22, of the 5600 block of Cedar Trail, Prince George was charged with trespass:general on April 9. ■ Pamala D. Starke, 39, of the 210000 block of Boydton Plank Road, McKenney was charged with larceny:petit on April 9.
24, of the 300 block of S 20th Avenue, Hopewell was charged with trespass:general on April 9. ■ Earnest Gabriel Lee Thomas, 23, of the 20 block of Bollingbrook Street, Petersburg was charged with trespass:general on April 9. ■ Hunter Austin Vinsh, 20, of the 3100 block of Woodlawn Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with fail to appear on April 9. ■ Deja Diamond Hudson, 18, of the 5000 block of Owens Way, Prince George was charged with larceny:petit; child neglect/cont to del mino on April 10. ■ Jerren Lightfoot, 34, of the 200 block of Dupuy Avenue, Colonial Heights was charged with strangulation; assault:simple on April 10. ■ Stephanie Lynn Milot, 37, of the 700 block of Old Town Drive, Colonial Heights was charged with probation:violation on April 10. ■ Shaneka Alane Bartley,
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The city passed its roughly $75.2 million budget on Tuesday, May 12, which includes a 2-percent cost of living raise for all city employees. The raise will be effective Sept. 1, and costs the city just over $250,000 for the upcoming fiscal year and $300,000 in future full-year costs. But the 2015-2016 budget reduces a 5-percent pay raise currently given to public safety employees for meeting certain career development goals, to 3 percent. The budget also includes an additional position that will provide administrative, marketing and clerical support to the departments of planning and economic development. Some costs associated with adding this position would be offset by the elimination of a similar part-time position in the planning department. The General Fund did increase by less than 2 percent, bringing in roughly $900,000 in additional revenue. But despite the increase, the city will mostly break even due to an additional $400,000 transferred to the school division and the use of one-time reserve funds in the amount of $374,000. For the c u r r e n t fi s c a l y e a r, the one-time reserve funds were used to purchase a bucket truck for $155,000, $100,00 went toward a new 911 system and $120,000 went toward staffing the courthouse with additional deputies.
Council also passed the city’s water and sewer fund budget in the amount of $4.9 million. Of the fund, $1.5 million will go toward water distribution, $2.9 million is for wastewater treatment and over $259,000 will go toward drawing up bills. City residents will see an increase in their sewer and water rates that will be partially offset by a $1.85 per month reduc tion in refuse fees. The refuse fee reduction will cost the General Fund a loss of $150,000. The average family in Colonial Heights would see their combined water and sewer bill go up from $92.84 to $101.61. On their bi-monthly bills, City residents will receive an additional monthly charge of 92 cents to both their sewer and water bills, and a monthly charge of $3 to both the water and sewer bills as a capital outlay charge. The capital outlay charge would mean an additional $268,000 per year for water and wastewater projects. Council also approved the school division’s $36 million budget, which includes a salary step increase for teachers, which amounts to a 1.5-percent raise. According to the new scale, a first year teacher with a bachelor’s degree will earn, $41,010 and teacher at the top of the scale with same amount of education will earn $66,080. —Leah Small may be reached at 722-5172 or lsmall@progressindex.com
The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va. | Friday, May 22, 2015
V5
COLONIAL HEIGHTS
Diane Hawkins named American Legion Auxiliary Unit 284 Lady of the Year From Contributed Report
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 284 has chosen Diane Hawkins as L ady of the Year 2014-2015. "Our lady of the year for 2014-2015 is a threeyear member of Unit 284 and joined under her father, Foy “Jim” Johnson," said Rita C. Feasenmyer, president, Colonial Heights Unit 284, in an emailed statement about the award presentation. The statement reads, "Diane promotes the Auxiliary and the mission of
the American Legion at every opportunity. Her outstanding service to the Auxiliary is in a twofold capacity for she is also being a member of the American Legion Riders. Not only does she show up ready to work at every function, but she rides a motorcycle, too." Fe a s e n my e r s a i d that anytime there is a request for volunteers, Hawkins is there. "She gives freely of her time and money through her very generous donations to each of our fundraisers. Her creativity in baskets earned her many acclimates by winners of the prizes."
Hawkins has assisted with many of the c h a i r m a n’s p r o j e c t s , Feasenmyer said. "She has participated in the poppy drives, ser ved wine at the Side Street Gallery fundraiser, is the famous red headed Bingo counter girl, w o r ke d t h e p a n c a ke breakfast fundraiser, the Auxiliary bingo fundraiser, helped decorate and disassemble the Post Christmas decorations, served food at the Independence Day picnic and at the Memorial Day and Veterans Day lunches." Feasenmyer stated, "Diane is a very instrumental and key part in
ENON
Colonial Heights American Legion Auxiliary Unit 284 Lady of the Year, Diane Hawkins, left, is presented her plaque by Rita C. Feasenmyer, president, Colonial Heights American Legion Auxiliary Unit 284. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
the clean up after the meeting social time. She has also assisted the Sons of the American Legion with their annual Boston
butt sale. All in all, Diane’s smiling face and her 'Service above Self ' mentality, proves she is an asset to the American
Legion family. Unit 284 is proud to announce and congratulate, Mrs. Diane Hawkins, as our Lady of the Year."
CHESTERFIELD
The Boneyard Butcher & James River Industrial Park plans grand opening Seafood Shop celebrates CHESTERFIELD — Chesterfield County is pleased to announce the opening of a new small business that caters to general contractors and other businesses. The business, James River Industrial Park, is planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday, May 26, at 2 p.m., followed by a grand opening on Saturday, May 30, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The public is invited to attend the grand opening. James River Industrial Park is centrally located in the Enon Area at 13515 Lawing Drive. Owners Russell E. and Deborah
R. Hughes are excited about locating their general contracting business, James River Contractor, at their new facility while also providing space for other businesses to thrive. “Small businesses are a critical element of our local economy, and this is a shining example of a local business expanding in Chesterfield County,” said Bermuda District Supervisor Dorothy Jaeckle of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. “We are pleased to support and recognize James River Industrial Park as they continue to grow.”
James River Industrial Park will offer small office space, shop space and/or flexible space to small businesses. There also is secure space for parking equipment related to those businesses. For the May 30 grand opening, the owners will be providing tours of the facility to prospective clients and the public. There also will be plenty of food to help celebrate their grand opening. For prospective clients who are unable to attend the grand opening, tours of the facility may be scheduled. For more information, call 804-452-1139.
CHURCH 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. 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. 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.
grand opening
Business will sell high-end cuts of meats and seafood in old-style butcher shop From Contributed Report
CHESTERFIELD — The Boneyard Butcher & Seafood Shop, 12406 S o u t h s h o r e Po i n t e Drive, in the Shops at Southshore on Hull Street Road, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting Friday, May 15. The Boneyard Butcher & Seafood Shop is an old-style butcher shop, reminiscent of an era before shoppers bought all of their groceries at mega-supermarkets. They will sell high-end cuts of meats and seafood, including live lobsters. The shop will also sell some prepared
foods and steam items to order. Chris Tavenner, the shop’s owner, plans to set himself apart by providing first-class, Ukrop’s-style customer service in a location where the nearest competition is Walmart and Food Lion. “Opening our first store, we wanted to find a niche,” Tavenner said. “We looked at Midlothian Turnpike and the West End, but those places already had specialty stores.” “We are very pleased that The Boneyard Butcher & Seafood Shop has chosen Chesterfield County for their first location,” said Art
Warren, Clover Hill District supervisor and vice chairman of Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. “It’s rewarding to see our business community grow and their location decision is a testament to our strong business climate.” “ I t ’s r e w a r d i n g t o see entrepreneurship flourish here and we are excited to have this unique grocery experience here in the county,” said Steve Elswick, Matoaca District supervisor and chairman of Board of Supervisors. Tavenner has plans to expand the brand across the region. “We have a five-year growth plan,” he said. “We can see five stores being built in the Richmond area in the next 10 years.”
V6
Friday, May 22, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.
ATHLETIC EVENT
Kids and adults enjoy the second annual Little Feet Meet on May 6 at Lakeview Elementary School. Created by Special Olympics of Virginia, the Little Feet Meet is designed to provide fun athletic activities to young children with intellectual disabilities. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS / LIA TREMBLAY
Little Feet Meet held at Lakeside Elementary From Contributed Report
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Colonial Heights Public Schools hosted its second annual Little Feet Meet on May 6 at Lakeview Elementary School. Created by Special Olympics of Virginia, the Little Feet Meet is designed to provide fun athletic activities
to young children with intellectual disabilities. Each student is paired with an older student or an adult for guidance through the events. T h i s y e a r, k i n d e r garteners from North Elementary School were invited so that students with and without disabilities could have fun
together. The event was made possible with support from the Kiwanis Club of Colonial Heights, Martin's Food Markets, Lee & Piracci PLC, Party City and Topside Tents. “It was so gratifying,” said Tracy Lee, the schools’ family resource coordinator, “to see so many people pulling together
RICHARD BLAND COLLEGE
to give our youngest children with disabilities the opportunity to be involved in activities that so many of us take for granted every day.” RIGHT: A boy holds a torch as Colonial Heights Public Schools hosted its second annual Little Feet Meet.
TALENT COMPETITION
Terelle Robinson talks about the issues he overcame to attend and graduate from Richard Bland College. PATRICK KANE / PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS
The 5th Annual Senior Idol winners are pictured from left: Ed Petersen, second runner up and People Choice Award winner, 2015 Senior Idol Gerry Seeley; and Penny-Elizabeth Humphries, first runner up. The Senior Idol competition was held Friday, May 15, and proceeds from the event benefit the Shepherd’s Center of Chesterfield. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
‘Making it to the finish line’ 5th annual Senior Idol Terelle Robinson overcomes obstacles to graduate By Amir Vera Staff Writer
PETERSBURG — The last two years at Richard Bland College have not been easy for Terelle Robinson. The 20-year-old’s sole guardian, grandmother Sarah Winston, died during his first month of college and left him homeless. During his last year at RBC, he had no family to go back home to, so he spent holiday breaks with teammates from the track team. Despite the obstacles, Robinson graduated Saturday, May 16, with a 3.16 grade point average. “I’m ecstatic, I’m thrilled. I feel like this graduation means way more to me than high school because of the bonds I’ve made with people and the adversity I’ve faced to get to graduation," Robinson said. "Everything was in my way, but I hopped over it and made it to the finish line.” His adversity began before he enrolled in RBC. Born in Richmond, Robinson said both of his parents were drug addicts. He never met his father and there is no name on his birth certificate. His mother, Valerie Robinson, had a number of children whom she could not care for, so she took young Terelle to the home of an aunt. Robinson said his mother would leave him there for weeks on end. One day, she just never
came back for him. “She always said she’d come back and get me. What ended up happening was the days turned into weeks, and the weeks turned into months," he said. "My mom hadn’t called and nobody could get in contact with her, so no one knew where she was or when she was coming to get me.” Robinson said he never had a relationship with his mother. The last time he saw her he was 2 years old and said he does not know what she looks like. His aunt was unable to keep him in her care because of obligations she already had within her household. He was then taken in by Sarah Winston, his grandmother, when he was 2 years old. The two lived at her home in Ashland. “It was a change. My grandmother told me the first day I stayed with her, I woke up, walked in the kitchen and asked for popcorn and water for breakfast. That’s what I was used to for breakfast or anytime,” Robinson said. Luckily, she fixed him a proper breakfast, instead. He lived with Winston until he left for Richard Bland in 2013. In her care, Robinson became involved in the church, sang in the choir and graduated from Patrick Henry High School. A month before leaving for college in 2013, Winston shattered her shoulder and broke her arm in two
spots after falling from a chair. After being treated, it was discovered that her heart and lungs weren’t strong enough for surgery. She was then admitted into an assisted living facility. Robinson left for college that fall with reservations, but he knew he needed to do this for her. He’d be the first in his family to graduate college. About one month into his freshman year, Robinson would have a dream about his grandmother around 6 a.m. on Sept. 5, 2013. He made it a point that day to call his grandmother after class. She was all he thought about that day, he said. After class, he received texts and calls; he was told by his aunt that his grandmother had passed around 6 a.m. from a heart attack in her sleep. “It just tore me up, I threw my phone. I walked from class to my dorm room sobbing,” Robinson said. Despite the pain and heartache, he said he continued going to school after her funeral. He describes fall 2013 as his toughest semester, between the death of his grandmother and getting acclimated to his new environment, yet he finished with a 3.25 grade point average. “I knew she wouldn’t want me out. That was my motivation and drive,” he said. SEE ROBINSON, V8
winners announced
Colonial Heights contestant named first runner-up From Contributed Report
CHESTERFIELD — Gerry Seeley’s original song on his 10 years of aging had the crowd roaring with laughter, but also earned him the title of Senior Idol at the 5th Annual Senior Idol competition held at Victory Tabernacle Church of God last Friday night, May 15. Greater Richmond’s top 12 acts vied for the title. The first runner up was PennyElizabeth Humphries singing “I Can Only Imagine.” Ed Pettersen was named second runner up with "Delilah", and also won the People’s Choice Award for the second year in a row. More than 500 people attended the event that consisted of acts in diverse
CALENDAR From Page V3
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 — Southside Regional Medical Center sponsors a free bereavement support group at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth
styles and genres. Kitty Mollicone was acknowledged for selling the most tickets to this popular fundraiser, which was sponsored by the Lucy Corr Village, Victory Tabernacle Church of God, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Chesterfield County Office of the Senior Advocate, and Buford Road Pharmacy. The Shepherd's Center of Chesterfield, 501-c 3 nonprofit, helps encourage all seniors to lead a safe, healthy and active lifestyle. Since its inception in 2001, the Shepherd's Center has been enriching the lives of adults 50 and over by offering volunteer opportunities for community service and lifelong learning and helping them remain healthy, active and independent
in their own homes for as long as possible. This past year the Shepherd's Center's volunteers have provided the following services to our community: 621 free, accompanied rides to medical appointments and grocery shopping for senior adults, made over 74 minor home repairs to help those on fixed incomes and living in their own homes, offered 108 educational classes resulting in 361 low-cost class registrations and provided 1,800 lunches to those attending their Luncheon Forum. Proceeds benefit the Shepherd’s Center of Chesterfield’s services for seniors. For more information about the Shepherd’s Center of Chesterfield, visit shepcenter.org.
Thursday of each month at Southside Rehabilitation Services, 430 Clairmont Court, Suite 120. For more information, call Chaplain Don Phelps at 765-5593. 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. On the first three Thursdays of the month, and any fifth Thursday, the club meets at 1:15 p.m. at the community building, 157 Roanoke Avenue. The fourth Thursday is a monthly luncheon at area restaurants by reservation with Joan Light at 526-5884. 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.
The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va. | Friday, May 22, 2015
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V7
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V8
Friday, May 22, 2015 | The Colonial Voice, Petersburg, Va.
TEXAS RAIDERS B-17
Young pilot flies piece of history By Leah Small Staff Writer
CHESTERFIELD — Ben Doggett, 26, is the youngest pilot currently flying a WWII-era B-17 bomber, but the native of Humble, Texas, has demonstrated that he had the skills to bring the flying relic safely and smoothly back down to the runway of the Chesterfield County Airport. Despite being built in 1945, the Texas Raiders B-17 Flying Fortress, manned by Doggett and a 10-12 man crew, showed that it is still going strong during tours and flights of the plane on Monday afternoon, May 11, at Chesterfield County Airport. Wednesday, May 13, was the last day that seats on the B-17 could be reserved for a 30-minute flight, before it headed back to its home in Spring, Texas. Curtis Sheffield, of Chesterfield, who was stationed on a Navy tanker in Norfolk during WWII and enlisted at 18, was anxious to see the Texas Raiders take off on May 11. "B-17s were practically the only bomber we had, did a lot of good things," he said. The Texas Raiders B-17 Flying Fortress is one of 12,731 B-17s built across the U.S. and is one of the nine currently flying. The Texas Raiders B-17 is the first Flying Fortress to be operated for use as a flying museum and is lovingly owned and maintained by the Commemorative Air Force. Doggett has been flying with the Texas Raiders for a year, but executed his first solo landing of a plane on his 16th birthday and began learning how
ROBINSON From Page V6
After his grandmother’s death, Robinson hopped between homes during breaks, staying with different aunts and friends. Sheri Mines, a family friend, said she spoke with Robinson twice a week to make sure he was still doing well in school. “I would just ask about school and how his grades were,” she said. “I wanted to help to make sure he got to go to school. I promised his grandmother I would look out for him.” At RBC, Robinson has two work study jobs. He works as a police aid in the
The Texas Raiders B-17 Flying Fortress lands at Chesterfield County Airport on Monday, May 11. The 70-year-old plane is a WWII battle icon.
to fly when he was 12. His love of flying comes from his father, who flew another historic icon, a Douglas DC-3, a commercial airliner of the 1930s and 1940s. "I've been around airplanes all of my life," he said. The importance of the B-17’s role in ensuring freedom hasn't been lost on Doggett, who is still older than many of the 20 and 21-year-old crew members who flew during the war. “It’s one of the defining planes of WWII,” he said. “The B-17 is the face of World War II. I’ve always wanted to fly it, it’s iconic. In celebration of the B-17’s role, the Texas Raiders joined the crews of dozens of aircraft from the WWII era in a flight over the nation’s capital on Friday, May 8, in recognition of the 70th anniversary of VE Day or Victory in Europe Day, before making their three-day stop in Chesterfield on May 11. The planes flew at a low 1,000 foot altitude over the National Mall for the eyes of hundreds of veterans gathered at the World War II Memorial. The only B-29 Superfortress still flying participated. A B-29 Superfortress dropped the atomic bomb. One of the historic
planes, the TBM Avenger, was required to make an emergency landing at Reagan National Airport due to a mechanical problem, according to media reports. The airport was closed to commercial traffic during the show. To ensure that the Texas Raiders B-17 stands that test of time, the Commemorative Air Force doesn’t even fly her in the rain. The cost to operate the aircraft is about $3,500 per hour, with the all volunteer crew putting in 30 man hours per flight hour. But the B-17 was known to be pretty tough, with an ability to take multiple hits from German fighter planes and anti-aircraft artillery. “It can take a punishment and still come home,” he said. Much of its resilience comes from its pulley system, which was replaced by hydraulics in newer planes later in the war. Kevin Michels, load master, said that a break in a hydraulic line was costly, since it greatly impaired a plane’s ability to fly. But beside the bombs, it wasn't known for its fire power. “You suddenly realize what a tin can these guys had to fly in,” Michels said. “There is no defense except two machine guns.
The Texas Raiders B-17 Flying Fortress sits on the runway of Chesterfield County Airport before take off on Monday, May 11. The Commemorative Air Force was offering rides on the plane May 11-13. LEAH SMALL / PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS
One of two guns on the Texas Raiders B-17 Flying Fortress is shown. The Commemorative Air Force was offering tours and flights on the plane at the Chesterfield County Airport Monday, May 11 through Wednesday, May 13.
You get them or they get you.” Crews were known to load the B-17's ammunition boxes as much as possible, and even stuffed ammunition into corners of the plane. Sometimes, a plane would be so overloaded with ammunition, that it would bust into flames before even leaving
the runway. Pilots retired after 25 missions. The average mission lasted six to 10 hours. The Texas Raiders B-17 Flying Fortress was built in July of 1945 and served as an Airborne Warning and Control System plane with radar for the Navy, before it was retired
in 1954 with 3,400 hours served. In 1967, the Commemorative Air Force purchased the B-17 for $50,000 and it’s now worth anywhere from $3 million to $7 million.
“I would have never guessed it, because he always walks around with a smile on his face regardless of what he’s going through," said fellow sophomore Kendall Crump. "He never really worries about anything. He took 24 credits this past semester and I would never see him worry, he’s just that type of person." "He could be going the opposite path, but he Terelle Robinson talks about the issues he overcame turned his negatives into to attend and graduate from Richard Bland College. a positive and that rarely happens with situations PATRICK KANE / PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS like his. It’s a good thing campus dorms and a super- 400 meter and 200 meter to see,” she said. visor at the Statesman Hall races. He has the reputation Robinson has already gym. He is also on the col- around campus of having been accepted to George lege’s track and field team, an optimistic attitude no Mason University, Old running the 800 meter, matter the circumstance.
Dominion University and Virginia Commonwealth University. He has not settled on a definitive major yet, but he plans to major in either chemistry, business or criminal justice. He also said his ultimate goal is to go to the College of William and Mary, but is waiting on a letter from them. As for living arrangements, he is hoping to spend the summer in the campus dorms until he leaves for a four-year institution, but plans have not been finalized. Despite his humble upbringing and a death in the family, Robinson said he has the faith that
his grandmother taught him as a child to see him through the tough times. “I have to thank the man upstairs, God. I think that’s really made the difference with me being raised by my grandma, her having me in church and me having a strong faith. It’s really been my strong faith in God. I believe no matter how hard a circumstance is, I can get over it,” he said. “I’ve been faced with a lot and somehow I always come out on top or in a better situation.”
'LOVING'
BRIEFLY
New movie to film in Central Virginia
Help the Dinwiddie Food Bank, get free lunch
Exact locations for filming have not been announced From Contributed Report
RICHMOND – Central Virginia has been selected as the filming location for “Loving,” a motion picture based on the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, a Virginia married couple who, in 1958, were arrested for violating a state law at the time prohibiting interracial marriage, according to Gov. Terry McAulife. The couple sued, and their case was ultimately heard in 1967 by the United States Supreme Court, becoming a landmark civil rights case in defense of marriage equality that is still relevant today. “‘Loving’ is a significant American story that should be told, and I am happy to announce it will be filmed
in Virginia,” McAuliffe said in a statement. “Attracting these projects to the commonwealth helps build the new Virginia economy by generating new revenues, creating good-paying jobs for our citizens and continuing to highlight Virginia’s historical significance.” The film stars Ruth Negga and Joel Edgerton. It will be directed by Jeff Nichols and was inspired by “The Loving Story,” a documentary that aired on HBO. The documentary was produced and directed by Nancy Buirski. She is also producing the feature film version with Sarah Green. Other producers include Colin Firth, Ged Doherty, Marc Turtletaub and Peter Saraf. Brian KavanaughJones and Jack Turner are executive producers. “This film will certainly bring jobs and revenue to the state, but more than that,
it gives us an opportunity to work with exceptional filmmakers while highlighting these remarkable Virginians and their important story,” said Virginia Film Office Director Andy Edmunds. While exact locations for filming were not announced, Petersburg recently was used as a set to create a small town in the 1940s as part of Meg Ryan’s movie “Ithaca.” Currently Petersburg is again hosting a film crew in Old Towne. Crews for the upcoming Civil War drama "Mercy Street" are camped out and building facades as they prepare to film. PBS announced the project on April 29, saying that it will be filmed on-location in Virginia. This six-part series, focused on a hotelturned-hospital in Civil War Alexandria, will air on Sunday nights starting in winter 2016, according to the network.
The “Loving” project will film in the central Virginia area and will be eligible for incentive funding. The exact amount will be based on expenditures in the state and certain deliverables to promote Virginia. “Virginia has become a premiere destination for film and television production, particularly for projects based on historical themes,” said Maurice Jones, secretary of commerce and trade. “I am grateful that this story will be told and will be filmed in the commonwealth, providing good jobs and positively contributing to our economy.” The annual economic impact of Virginia’s film industry is $382.5 million, and it provides $19.4 million in state and local tax revenue for the commonwealth, as well as more than 2,000 full time jobs.
DINWIDDIE — The Dinwiddie County Churches Emergency Relief Program is hosting a Food Bank drive on Friday. Anyone who brings two or more canned goods to the old Dinwiddie Supermarket parking lot, 13725 Boydton Plank Raod at Carson Road, next to Dinwiddie Drugstore, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Friday will receive a free lunch (hot dog, chips, bottled water).
Free citizenship classes RICHMOND — Free citizenship classes will be provided by The Bridge CDC and funded by Virginia Commonwealth University. The classes include: Instruction by a VCU
—Leah Small may be reached at 722-5172 or lsmall@progress-index. com
—Amir Vera may be reached at avera@ progress-index.com or (804) 722-5155.
immigration and spanish professor, book and video, and naturalization application assistance. Class requirements: Students must be a legal permanent resident (Green Card holder) and must be a ‘high beginner’ in speaking English Students may register for the program by reporting to Ramsey Memorial United Methodist Church, 5900 Hull Street Road on the following days and times: Thursday, May 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. or Thursday, May 28 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. If those days and times are not feasible, please complete an online registration form at www.tinyurl.com/ awrcitizenshipregnew. Once you've submitted your registration, a representative will contact you with the details of attending the class.